Utilities director urges planning for much larger wastewater expansions as state allocation rules shift

John Nichols, the county utilities presenter, explained the difference between permitted flow, actual flow and allocated flow and described how the 80/90 planning rule changes and a 2023 session law force earlier and larger expansions at wastewater treatment plants. He said the Northeast plant expansion (design complete, proposed construction start mid‑2027) and potential expansions of West Brunswick and Ocean Isle Beach plants must be evaluated in combination to meet allocation limits and to avoid moratoria that would halt line extension permits and possibly building permits.

Nichols outlined three core options: build only the capacity tied to current line‑extension permits (about 6 MGD), build more to cover development approved by planning but not yet permitted (about 12 MGD), or risk a moratorium that would pause new development connections. He and staff told commissioners this could shift the share of cost between developers and existing ratepayers — system development fees historically cover ~75% of expansion with 25% borne by existing customers — and that state law limits how those shares can be assigned. Commissioners directed staff to schedule a dedicated workshop to explore scenarios, funding strategies and timing before committing to a specific expansion plan.