So you’ve got this extraterritorial planning jurisdiction, but how do you get rid of it? Fair question.  The statutes give clear procedures for establishing extraterritorial jurisdiction, or ETJ, but there is less clarity for relinquishment.  A good rule of thumb … Read more

Consider these three scenarios regarding potential appeals to the zoning board of adjustment.  Scenario 1.  Marge Simpson has worked for decades to improve her neighborhood.  Several years ago the town adopted a new plan that called for the neighborhood to … Read more

Two new members have been elected to the Pleasantville town council and are scheduled to be sworn in at the December meeting. A special meeting has been called for November 25, at which the current board plans to address several … Read more

It’s that time of year. Winter storms may make it impossible for local government employees to make it to work. Sometimes absences are for only a day or two and once the roads are clear and it is safe to … Read more

You know the old Jones house down on 4th Street in the town’s historic district, don’t you? Well, it’s a real shame that it is in such bad shape. I remember when that house was right at the center of … Read more

Occupancy taxes on hotels and other rental accommodations are growing increasingly common in North Carolina.  The General Assembly has granted special authorization to levy occupancy taxes to roughly 200 counties and municipalities.  This blog post provides a quick overview of … Read more

North Carolina holds its local government board members’ feet to the fire when it comes to voting. City council members and county commissioners have a legal duty to vote unless they are excused for any of several grounds allowed under … Read more