New Bern · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in New Bern, NC public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Disposition of Redevelopment Parcels (First Avenue, Mechanic Street, Bloomfield Street, Sampson Street)
The commission was scheduled to consider bids from two buyers for four vacant lots in the redevelopment area. Selling these parcels could put them back on the tax rolls and into productive use, but the outcome of the vote is unknown.
Weyerhaeuser Rezoning and Development Agreement
A resolution was scheduled to call a public hearing on rezoning three Weyerhaeuser parcels — one to commercial, two to R-6 residential — and to approve a development agreement with Weyerhaeuser NR Company. This could set the stage for significant new growth.
Long-running demolition by neglect at 221 E. Front St.
One of the city's longest-running demolition-by-neglect cases, dating back to the 1990s or earlier. The update notes real progress: windows repaired and reinstalled, temporary roof covering along the parapet, and a two-story wood porch being rebuilt with exact replacement — plus a repointing COA application coming soon.
Demolition by neglect at 221 E. Front St.
A downtown building has been in demolition-by-neglect status since the 1990s. Slow but steady repairs continue — windows, roof covering, and a rebuilt two-story porch — with a repointing application expected soon.
Avenues/Duffyfield affordable housing redevelopment
Residents are asking about closed streets (West Street, Fowler's Lane, East Rhodes), an insecure fence around a retention pond next to a daycare, and dilapidated housing. The workgroup wants more transparency and resident education from the city.
Housing Authority / Habitat for Humanity Partnership
Staff was scheduled to discuss ongoing activity with the Housing Authority and Habitat for Humanity, including a correction that Habitat did not receive a New Market Tax Credit grant because the committee sought projects in the $5–10 million range.
Annexation and Commercial Development of 4095 E US 70 Hwy.
Two US 70 parcels owned by Magnolia Investors were annexed into the city (Ward 3) with a water/sewer agreement in hand; commercial development with about 5,150 gallons of daily water demand is planned.
Redevelopment Commission's Future
The board debated whether to keep the Redevelopment Commission, absorb its affordable-housing mission, or reset it with clearer goals. It postponed an appointment and will hold a joint meeting before deciding.
Demolition of historic houses at 710 New St. and 811 Pollock St.
Two separate requests would tear down historic two-story houses in the historic district and replace them with new two-story infill homes. These decisions determine how much of the district's original building fabric survives.
Shriner's Temple site redevelopment — parking lot amendment
Craven County is converting most of the former Sudan Temple at 403 E. Front St. into a parking lot, keeping only the monumental front entrance with new masonry, landscaping, lighting, and fencing. The commission approved the missing details but required traditional wood fencing rather than the proposed white vinyl.
Bloomfield Property Purchase
A resolution was scheduled for consideration to buy back the Bloomfield Properties. Whether it was approved is unknown.