Alligator Again, Brunswick Building, Canceled Charges

Good Morning, Leland, Winnabow, Belville and more! Are you ready for a new week?

In today’s LLLLeland:

• Alligator Attack at Lake Waccamaw

• More Homes Coming to Brunswick

• Paid Parking Plans Cancelled by Petition in Southport

THE NEWS

Alligator Attack at Lake Waccamaw

A child was injured in the Lake Waccamaw area on Friday evening after a possible alligator attack, according to the Lake Waccamaw Police Department. Several children were playing in the water when one reported being bitten. A 6- to 7-foot alligator then surfaced nearby. The child sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries, though it's unclear whether they were caused by a bite or claw. The alligator was later neutralized, and the NC Wildlife Resources Commission is investigating. Authorities urge the public to stay vigilant and keep a safe distance from wildlife in the water. Read more at wect.com.

More Homes Coming to Brunswick

Despite strong public opposition, the Brunswick County Planning Board approved three large residential developments this week, totaling 1,405 new units. Concerns from residents focused on traffic congestion, loss of natural landscape, overdevelopment, and emergency access.

Key Developments Approved:

1. Dream Finders Homes – Sunset Harbor Road

• 409 units total (adding 145 units to a previously approved plan).

• Estimated 3,010 vehicle trips per day.

• Public criticized the impact on traffic, flooding, and loss of the community’s small-town feel.

• Approved despite objections, as the plan met all legal requirements.

2. Norris and Tunstall – Mill Creek Road

• Expansion added 151 units, for a total of 446 units on 197 acres.

• 1,635 vehicle trips/day expected.

• Includes 77 acres of open space and 18 acres for recreation.

• Requires future design and permitting approval.

3. Norris and Tunstall – McLamb Farm on Number Five School Road

• Expanded to 631 total units (from 319).

• Includes 447 single-family homes and 184 duplexes on 155 acres.

• 5,520 vehicle trips/day projected.

• Offers 40.66 acres of open space and 11.57 acres of recreation.

   

 Proposal Tabled:

A proposed 1,722-unit development on Hooper Road was tabled due to concerns about:

• Single-entry access

• Emergency service limitations

• Traffic volume (estimated 14,492 daily trips)

Planned revisions will be presented at the July 14 planning board meeting.

Developers proposed various road upgrades, stormwater systems designed for 100-year storm events, and buffers to address environmental and aesthetic concerns. However, many residents expressed fear that rapid development will lead to increased flooding, traffic problems, and a loss of Brunswick County's character.

Read the rest of the story at portcitydaily.com.

Paid Parking Plans Cancelled by Petition in Southport

The Southport Board of Aldermen voted on June 12 to table a proposed paid parking program after facing significant public opposition. The motion, introduced by Alderman Robert Carroll, passed in a 5-1 vote, with only Alderman Marc Spencer dissenting.

The proposal, originally suggested by Spencer as a way to fund capital projects like stormwater improvements, shoreline stabilization, and other infrastructure needs, drew widespread backlash. Following a June 2 presentation by parking vendor Otto Connect, over 7,200 residents and business owners signed a petition opposing the idea.

Although not originally on the agenda, Alderman Rebecca Kelley pushed for the topic to be discussed due to public concern. Mayor Rich Alt acknowledged skepticism about the plan but emphasized the city’s need for alternative revenue sources beyond property taxes and invited residents to submit other funding ideas.

WHAT’S HAPPENIN’

Stormwater Talk with Cape Fear River Watch

The public is invited to attend a conversation tomorrow at 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm with Cape Fear River Watch focused on stormwater management in the local area. The event will provide information about stormwater, strategies to reduce pollution, and helpful tips for homeowners on effective stormwater management. It will be held at the Leland Cultural Arts Center located at 1212 Magnolia Village Way. Register here.

Cozy Panda Pottery Painting at Brunswick Beer XChange

Tomorrow night at Brunswick Beer XChange 6:00 pm starting at Enjoy a relaxing and creative evening with friends and family by painting your own ceramic piece. Tickets include a pottery item of your choice, all painting supplies, and a fun, laid-back atmosphere. Register here. BBX is located at 113 Village Road in Leland.

Do you have an event? Reach out to us! [email protected]

WEATHER

Monday

86 🌡️ 75 | 🌧️ | 45% | 🌬️ SW 11 mph | Humidity 71%

Tuesday

88 🌡️ 76 | 🌧️ | 50% | 🌬️ SW 11 mph | Humidity 68%

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See you tomorrow!