OB Sentinel- NH talks sandbags

Not unexpectedly Nags Head is talking about sandbags. Expect the Town to ban sandbags or at least severly limit their use. The choice is clear that either we sandbag the entire beach or we don't allow sandbags. Selected use of sandbags simply transfers erosion to the adjoining properties. Nags Head learned this the hard way along Seagull Dr. particularly.
Pretty good discussion in this OB Sentinel article. Probably the most significant point missing is that the town can't just adopt a ban on sandbags if it is not consistent with the Land and Water Use Plan (LWUP). Therefore the LWUP which currently supports sandbags must be changed before the rules can be changed. The NC General Assembly recently required towns find that any zoning changes they made were consistent with the LWUP. Nags Head actually could change the rules at their next meeting but it would be open to challenge since it would not meet the consistency test.
The fact that NH is undertaking an amendment to the LWUP for this issue rather than simply waiting for the adoption of the next LWUP sometime next year, underscores the importance of this issue to the BOC.

The Dilbert Blog: Burning Flags

You ever read something and say "I wish I had written that" Scott Adams speaks profound truth on this issue.
The Dilbert Blog: Burning Flags: "Burning Flags"

Whores

Ouch, here's another take on the N&O article sited below.

N&O| Minds open to offshore drilling

Interesting article in the N&O suggesting a shift in attitudes about offshore drilling statewide and along the coast. Several locals are quoted inlcuding Mike Kelly

"You have to participate to make sure you do get some money for it," said Mike Kelly, who owns three restaurants on the Outer Banks and sits on the region's Chamber of Commerce board. "They're going to do it anyway."

Nags Head Mayor Renee Cahoon

"I don't think it's worth the cost," said Nags Head Mayor Renee Cahoon. "I don't think localities will get enough out of it. Everybody in the state will be fighting for the money."

The Senate will now consider the bill that has passed the House, its not clear if it will be moved forward in time to be considered in this Congress. If not we go back to square one. Here's hoping this bill dies quietly. It would not be good for the coast or the state. Those here who support it are looking for a money for other projects, including beach nourishment. This is the wrong place look for the money.
Sen. Burr apparently is on board. It will be interesting to see where Sen. Dole comes down on this. She has been an outspoke opponent of offshore drilling. Here's hoping she continues to hold firm.