Land Planning & Development | Voices to Votes NC

Wilmington City Council

Land Planning and Development

Land planning, approval of new developments and appointments of citizens to related boards and commissions arguably represent the most impactful decisions by City Council. From approving rezoning requests, shaping long-term land use policy and use of appointments to influence boards and commissions, Council members directly control how, where, and fast the city grows.

The city’s rapid growth and rising density are not accidental but stem from these choices—often guided by a loose interpretation of the Create Wilmington Comprehensive Plan.

Destination 2050: Create Wilmington Comprehensive Plan

Wilmington City Council Meeting Archive

City of Wilmington Land Development Code

rezoning decisions

Council members vote on whether land is rezoned for increased density, changed from residential to commercial use or other revisions from existing zone codes for a specific parcel. These decisions directly impact traffic, safety, values of adjacent existing neighborhoods, potential for flooding, crowding in schools, loss of green space and a reduced overall quality of life for citizens.

Appointments to Boards & Commissions

City Council appoints members to the Wilmington Planning Commission and the Board of Adjustment. Each of these advisory entities are involved in the overall planning process by reviewing rezoning applications and considering requested variances to LDC standards. They conduct public hearings and vote to recommend approval or denial of each application to City Council. Currently a majority of Planning Commission members are directly involved in the real estate industry or are professionals providing services to real estate developers and investors. City Council has the authority to change the members of the boards and commissions to create a more professionally diverse group.

Land Development Code (LDC) Updates

The LDC determines building heights, setbacks, density, tree protections and other technical issues relating to building and development. Council, in coordination with the city Planning Department has the authority to change these rules to fit their vision for Wilmington.

Good governance demands a balance between progress and preservation. This election determines whether that balance will be restored — or pushed further out of reach.