To: Currituck County Board of Commissioners

From: Concerned Residents, Property Owners, Taxpayers, and Environmental Advocates of Currituck County, North Carolina

We, the undersigned, respectfully urge the Currituck County Board of Commissioners to uphold a cautious, science-informed approach to shoreline management. We oppose rushed, costly, and potentially irreversible measures driven by panic or incomplete information. Such actions threaten taxpayer resources, environmental integrity, and sound long-term planning.

Currituck’s shoreline has always been a dynamic environment. Erosion on barrier islands is natural and expected. While recent erosion rates have raised concerns, impulsive spending on unplanned interventions is not the solution. The Board’s ongoing investment in comprehensive Shoreline Stability Studies (2019–present), accessible at: https://currituckcountync.gov/shoreline-stability-study/, demonstrates a responsible commitment to understanding these complex processes. These studies highlight variability in erosion and reinforce the importance of long-term, strategic planning rather than emergency responses.

The 2022 recommendations for a Beach Management Plan (BMP) reflect a deliberate, methodical process. The development of this plan, initiated on April 29, 2024, and refined through detailed input in October 2024, exemplifies prudent decision-making. Rushing this process risks adopting flawed solutions that could hinder permitting, waste taxpayer funds, or cause ecological damage.

While neighboring counties have pursued shoreline nourishment projects—often at significant ongoing costs and with questionable long-term results—Currituck has wisely avoided such costly, short-term fixes. These projects frequently require frequent re-nourishment cycles (every 3–5 years), face legal challenges, and do not guarantee protection against future storms. Currituck’s cautious approach has preserved fiscal flexibility and protected taxpayers from open-ended liabilities.

The severity of the 2025 storm season does not justify emergency measures across the entire county. Resources should not be diverted from essential services such as water, sewer, public safety, and tourism marketing—funds that are legally earmarked and vital for community well-being. Diverting Occupancy Tax (OT) revenue to unpermitted, unbudgeted sand placement would undermine fiscal responsibility and threaten these critical priorities.

We urge the Board to continue relying on scientific research, transparent planning, and measured action—prioritizing long-term sustainability over impulsive fixes. Responsible shoreline management is essential to safeguarding Currituck’s natural beauty, environmental health, and financial stability for future generations.

Sincerely,
[Signatures of concerned residents, property owners, taxpayers, and environmental advocates]