Brunswick County develops new dashboards for zoning and commercial development updates

During the Brunswick County Board of Commissioners regular meeting on June 16, 2025, significant discussions centered around the enhancement of public access to development data through new digital dashboards. The meeting highlighted the county's initiative to roll back the clock on development data to include projects predating February 2015, aiming to provide a more comprehensive view of the county's growth and development history.

The proposed dashboards will include a rezoning dashboard, a special use permit dashboard, and a commercial development dashboard. The latter is particularly noteworthy, as it responds to public demand for transparency regarding commercial projects, with residents frequently inquiring about potential new businesses, such as popular restaurant chains. This move reflects the county's commitment to improving communication with its citizens and addressing their concerns about local development.

Commissioners expressed enthusiasm for the new tools, emphasizing their potential to enhance understanding of ongoing projects. However, there were also discussions about the limitations of the current dashboard format, particularly its performance on mobile devices. Efforts are underway to improve usability across various platforms, ensuring that residents can access vital information conveniently.

A key point raised during the meeting was the potential for collaboration with local municipalities. One commissioner suggested that expanding access to the dashboard for towns like Carolina Shores and Calabash could enhance service delivery and information sharing, particularly since these municipalities utilize county services. This proposal indicates a desire for greater integration and cooperation between county and municipal governments, which could lead to more efficient use of resources and improved public service.

The meeting also included a public hearing on the budget ordinance, although no residents signed up to speak. This lack of public engagement may suggest a need for increased outreach and communication regarding budgetary matters, ensuring that community members feel informed and involved in local governance.

Overall, the discussions from the meeting reflect Brunswick County's proactive approach to development transparency and intergovernmental collaboration, with the potential for significant positive impacts on community engagement and service delivery in the future. As the county moves forward with these initiatives, the effectiveness of the new dashboards and the proposed partnerships with municipalities will be closely watched by both officials and residents alike.