Volume 12 | April 2026

Official Business from the March 4th Council Meeting

Mayor/Council/Staff Reports:

Town Council approved the updated 2026 council committee assignments, which added the appointment of Councilor Bill Miller to the Rural Transportation Advisory Committee.

New Business:

Emergency Management Appointments: Town Council unanimously approved the reappointment of Noel Nadol and the appointments of Gina Richards-McCloskey and Chris Lyon to the St. James Emergency Management group, with terms running through 2029. All three members were sworn in following the vote and council thanked them for their service.

Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan Adopted: Town Council adopted the updated Southeastern North Carolina Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan, a FEMA required plan updated every five years that outlines regional responses to potential hazards such as hurricanes, floods, and other emergencies. The plan was developed collaboratively by municipalities and counties across Brunswick, New Hanover, and Pender Counties.

Resolution Opposing Fuquay-Varina Interbasin Transfer: Town Council unanimously adopted a resolution opposing a proposed water transfer by the Town of Fuquay-Varina that would divert up to 12 million gallons per day from the Cape Fear River basin to the Neuse River basin without returning water to the original basin. Local leaders expressed concern about potential impacts on downstream water availability and regional resources. The resolution will be submitted as part of the state's public review process.

Inside the March 19th Town Council Work Session

NC 211 Project:

NCDOT reported the NC 211 widening project is 66% complete and remains on schedule for substantial completion in July 2027 with final completion in January 2028. A major westbound traffic shift is expected between late May and mid-June. At that time, drivers coming from Southport will no longer be able to turn left at Midway Road toward Oak Island and will instead use a new ramp and temporary signal near Lowe’s Foods.

The Regency Crossing gate will close for up to 30 days during the traffic shift so it can be connected to the new lanes. Drainage improvements and additional storm drains are also planned for the St. James entrance area.

St. James North Tree Plan:

Council reviewed a revised tree preservation plan for the proposed St. James North development. The updated standards—developed with input from arboriculture experts and the Town’s engineers—require canopy or understory trees on residential lots and enhanced shrub landscaping. Final conditions are expected to return for action at the April 4 meeting.

Obituary Posting Policy:

Council reviewed a draft policy allowing family members or authorized representatives to submit obituaries (up to 250 words) for posting on the Town website. Formal adoption is expected in April.

Proposed Demonstration Ordinance:

Staff presented a draft ordinance establishing a permit process and guidelines for parades, picket lines, and demonstrations on public property. Council suggested revisions before the proposal is reviewed by the Town attorney and returned for adoption.

Community Event:

The Town will host a free screening of “The American Constitution” on May 21 at the community center, followed by a Q&A with the film’s director. Seating is limited and reservations will open closer to the event.

Finance Update:

Town finances remain strong with $4.82 million collected and $3.63 million spent through mid-March. Sales tax revenues were particularly strong in March. The Town also successfully completed federal closeout of the $2 million ARPA water pressure improvement project.

Project Updates:

• Audit Services RFP issued to 43 firms, response due April 20
• Storm debris management RFP received 6 responses, while monitoring services received 3
• Event Center expansion design proposal received from Sherwood Architects
• Lighting installation nearly complete through a BEMC grant
• Employee classification study underway with results expected in May
• AV consultant made another site visit and will be providing a comprehensive written proposal covering both buildings for council to review

Inside the February 26th Town Council Budget Retreat

Fire Department Update:

St. James Fire Department Board President Jim Crum introduced Kevin Murphy as the new Fire Chief effective April 1, 2026. The department presented its draft budget, noting the Town provides about 81% of funding. The proposed budget includes an increase of about $68,000, largely due to ending the pine straw fundraising program and increasing operating reserves. Call volumes continue to rise, with 1,027 EMS calls and 356 fire calls last year.

Town policies under review:

• Obituary Policy: Would allow families to submit obituaries (up to 250 words) for posting on the Town website. Adoption expected in April
• Personnel Policy: Comprehensive update planned to reflect recent state law changes and upcoming compensation study results
• Purchasing & Demonstration Policies: Staff will update the Town’s purchasing policy and develop a permit process for parades and demonstrations on public property

Disaster Recovery Fund:

The Town’s one-cent disaster recovery tax will sunset after exceeding its $1.5 million goal. Council plans to build the reserve to $2 million by FY 2026 using surplus funds and may budget $250,000 annually going forward to strengthen the reserve for future storms.

250th Anniversary Celebration:

Council is considering fireworks or a drone show for the July celebration. Fireworks are currently favored, and discussions continue with the property manager regarding logistics.

Town Projects and Infrastructure:

• Event Center Expansion: Architectural proposals are due, with a design recommendation expected in May
• AV System Upgrade: Estimated $200,000 for modern audio/visual equipment and improved meeting technology
• Streetlight Upgrades: Six additonal lights along St. James Drive are expected to be replaced with LED fixtures.
• Cell Coverage: A new 155-foot communication tower proposed near the airport and under review by Brunswick County Planning could improve service in eastern areas of town

Budget Planning for FY 2026–27:

Upcoming budget items include fire department funding, community events, a clerk training program, snow removal funding, website accessibility improvements, and a UDO review and update.

Other Actions

Council plans to request a traffic signal at Seafield Drive and Middleton Road from NCDOT again, and will consider a resolution opposing a proposed interbasin water transfer from the Cape Fear River that could impact downstream communities.

Public meeting minutes can be found on the Town Website.

Upcoming Town Council Regular Meeting & Public Hearings

TODAY, April 1, 2026

The Town of St. James will be holding its monthly Regular Meeting at 4:00pm on Wednesday, April 1, 2026 at St. James Town Hall. The public is invited. A copy of the agenda with supporting documentation can be found by clicking here.

Please note that this meeting includes the two Public Hearings continued from the February 4th and March 4th meetings. The first hearing will be on the application for conditional zoning and rezoning of the St. James North Planned Unit Development (PUD) and the other hearing will be on a proposed Development Agreement between the parties. 

Town of St. James Seeks Planning Board Members

The Town of St. James is seeking two (2) volunteers for the Town Planning Board. The Planning Board meets as needed to review specific development projects as authorized in the Town's Unified Development Ordinance (UDO). The Planning Board consists of five regular members and two alternates.  The Town currently has a vacancy for both a regular member and an alternate member. 

Residents interested in serving on the Town Planning Board should submit a letter of interest to the Town Clerk by Friday, April 3, 2026. Letters may be emailed to jburns@stjames.town or delivered to Town Hall, 4140 Southport-Supply Rd., Suite A, St. James, North Carolina.

Nominations Open for 2026 Town of St. James

Citizen Recognition Program

Is someone you know making a difference in our community?

The Town of St. James is proud to continue its Citizen Recognition Program for 2026. Established by the St. James Town Council in 2024, the program honors outstanding citizens whose contributions strengthen and enrich our community.

The program recognizes individuals, groups, organizations, and businesses that have made significant and lasting impacts in St. James. If you would like to nominate an individual or group deserving of this recognition, please follow this link for instructions and forms.

The deadline to submit applications is Thursday, April 30th.

St. James Fire Department Trainings

Wednesday, April 15, 2026

The St. James Fire Department will conduct training in the vicinity of the Marina Dry Stacks between 4-6PM, Wednesday, April 15th. Residents are asked to use caution while traveling on streets and sidewalks near the Marina, including St. James Drive, Long Bay Drive and Harborside Way.

Monday, April 20, 2026

The St. James Fire Department will conduct training at the Seaside Pool on Monday, April 20th from 7-9PM. Use caution in the area of the Seaside facilities and surrounding streets.

Emergency Preparedness Message

Tornado Season

Spring has sprung! With the much-appreciated warmer weather comes an increased probability of tornadoes. The Town of St. James Emergency Management Group encourages all residents to take time now to plan and prepare for the actions you would take during a tornado event.

The National Weather Service provides helpful guidance for creating a tornado safety plan. Click here for more information.

Please take a few moments to explore this site. Key elements to consider include:

• Understanding the difference between a tornado watch, warning, and emergency

• Knowing what to do before, during, and after a tornado

Be sure you are registered to receive alerts from trusted agencies and weather services. We strongly recommend signing up for the Brunswick County emergency alert system, ReadyBrunswick. This system provides notifications through multiple communication methods to help keep you informed. Click here to register.

Wildfire Prevention In St. James

What Residents Should Do During Our Current Drought

With drought conditions intensifying across our region, the Town of St. James faces a significantly higher wildfire risk. Dry vegetation, low humidity, and steady winds mean even small sparks can spread quickly. Every resident can help reduce that risk by staying alert and adjusting outdoor habits.

Maintain a Fire‑Safe Home Perimeter

Creating defensible space around your home is one of the most effective ways to slow or stop fire spread. Clear leaves, pine straw, and dry debris from gutters, roofs, decks, and around foundations. Maintain a five‑foot non‑combustible zone using gravel or stone. Trim shrubs and tree limbs touching structures or overhanging roofs. Store firewood and propane tanks at least 30 feet from buildings.

Outdoor Grill & Firepit Best Practices

During drought, outdoor cooking and recreational fires require extra caution. Use grills and firepits only on stable, non‑flammable surfaces such as patios or concrete—never on dry grass or near shrubs. Maintain at least 10 feet of clearance from structures and overhanging branches, and keep a hose or extinguisher nearby.

Check gas‑grill hoses for leaks before lighting. Allow charcoal to cool completely and dispose of it in a metal container. Burn only seasoned firewood in firepits and avoid leaves or pine straw that can spark. Fully extinguish firepits before leaving—douse with water, stir, and repeat until cool. Follow all Town of St. James and Brunswick County fire advisories.

Prevent Sparks in Daily Activities

Avoid parking vehicles on dry grass. Secure trailer chains to prevent sparks. Use power tools early in the day when humidity is higher.

Protect yourself and your neighbors – Be Firewise

Town of St. James Shredding Event

Saturday, April 18 & May 2, 2026

9am - 11am (or until trucks are full)

The Town of St. James will host its annual shredding event on Saturday, April 18th and Saturday, May 2nd from 9-11AM (or until trucks are full). The event will be held in the Town Hall/Event Center parking lot located at 4140 Southport-Supply Road. This is a drive-up event open to all St. James residents. An RFID sticker is required for participation. To ensure smooth traffic flow, residents should participate based on their yard debris route.

Residents on Route A should attend on Saturday, April 18, and those on Route B should attend on Saturday, May 2. Note, this event is strictly for paper shredding. Full details here.

Town of St. James UNCW Speaker Series

Tuesday, April 21st - 7:00pm

Homer E. Wright Event Center

On Tuesday, April 21st please join Dr. Geoff Stoker for a discussion on Cybersecurity.

Dr. Stoker joined UNCW in Fall 2017 as a lecturer in Computer Science and has been part of the Congdon School in the Cameron School of Business since 2020—first as an Assistant Professor and, since August 2025, as an Associate Professor. Before UNCW, he worked at CYR3CON, an AI‑driven cybersecurity startup predicting cyber-attacks, and previously served over 24 years in the U.S. Army. His military career included four years as CISO for the 82nd Airborne Division—15 months of which were spent in Afghanistan protecting coalition networks—and three years as an instructor at the U.S. Military Academy (USMA) at West Point. He teaches courses in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Information Systems, and Computer Science. He earned computer science degrees from USMA (BS, 1992), the University of Virginia (MSC, 2001), and the University of Maryland, College Park (PhD, 2014).

Make sure to join us as this will be the last Speaker Series session until September 2026. We hope you’ll take this opportunity to attend before the series resumes next fall.

Community Screening: The American Constitution

Thursday, May 21, 2026

The town will host a special screening of The American Constitution, a one-hour docudrama about the framing of the U.S. Constitution in 1787 Philadelphia. The film is currently touring select North Carolina communities ahead of its national release as part of the nation's 250th anniversary celebration.

The screening will take place Thursday, May 21st, at the Homer E. Wright Event Center. The film's director will attend and host a question-and-answer session following the showing.

The event is free for residents, but seating is limited to approximately 350 people. An RSVP reservation system will open in May for registration.