Dune debate continues at Topsail Beach meeting

TOPSAIL BEACH, NC (WWAY) — The dune debate continues on Topsail Island as the town council is trying to make the right decision.

Saturday, the town held a public meeting to discuss the plans of what should be done with the possible construction project.

“In the long run it will affect everybody,” Topsail Mayor Howard Braxton said. “So we have to make sure that what we do is the right thing for the town.”

Concerned residents of Topsail Beach voiced their approval and disapproval Saturday on whether to build on the sand dunes on the southern part of the island.

Currently, it is not permitted for owners to build on this strip of land.

But Chris Gibson proposed an ordinance to change that.

“By putting this ordinance in, what we’re trying to do is minimize the impacts of the island overall by development, if there is development on these oceanfront properties and to make sure that there’s as much protection, even over and above, what the current state regulations are.” Gibson said at Saturday’s meeting.

Gibson’s proposal met plenty of opposition as many feared it could break down dunes and cause more issues in the future.

Stephen Hayford believes if owners can’t build a home without compromising the integrity of the dunes, then building a home is not a reasonable use of the land.

“I think preserving the quality and the unique character of the south end of Topsail Island, which is very unique, is critical,” Hayford said. “I think flood protection and dune integrity is also critical.”

Hayford also said that he, like many at the meeting, just wants what’s best for the community.

Your last chance to voice your opinion will be Wednesday night as a final decision will be made on the dunes ordinance during the towns regular town hall meeting.