Planning Board Meeting - September 01, 2026

The Pender County Planning Board held a meeting on September 1, 2026, primarily to consider a conditional rezoning map amendment request for a 404-acre property near Highway 17 and Sidbury Road. The applicant, McAdams Homes, proposed developing 930 single-family homes targeted at the 55 and older population, with a gross density of 2.3 units per acre and approximately 68 acres of open space. The board discussed various aspects including traffic impact, school system effects, environmental considerations, and infrastructure capacity, particularly water and sewer services. The proposal included conditions to ensure public access easements and connectivity with adjacent developments. After deliberation, the board voted 3-2 to deny the rezoning request, citing concerns about density and infrastructure strain. The case will be forwarded to the county commissioners for further consideration on October 19, 2026. Additionally, the board discussed upcoming workshops and staffing challenges affecting planning activities.