On the topic of capturing the value of the off-road area, the next iteration of the Land Use Plan has begun, but, as you know, it is a lengthy, deliberative process.   I am part of the Steering Committee and hope that the group will seriously consider how best to protect the County’s important natural assets there while allowing the area to be used for the highest value for the citizens of the County and all property owners.  I hope this will mean a serious look at how to return the off-road area beaches to their highest value which is recreational purpose.    

What is the best way to enable property owners and their guests to eventually have regular vehicle access, encouraging growth of the tax base through their additional investments.?

Are the mainland taxpayers content to allow one half of the beach and half the platted beach area acreage to generate less than 20% of the tax revenues?  

Are the taxpayers content to forego ten million dollars per year in additional tax revenues to preserve the status quo in the area? 

 A thoughtful plan can achieve these objectives while preserving the natural areas, protecting the horses and making both more accessible for naturalists and eco-tourists.

Off Road Beach July.jpeg
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Ed Cornet

Ed Cornet, PhD, is a long time Currituck resident in Corolla. He has over six years of service as a member of the County's Economic Development Advisory Board and the Land Use Plan Steering Group. His business career was in high-tech industries and as a Partner of Booz Allen Hamilton. He has served on several corporate Boards. After retiring from business Ed was a Professor in the Kenan-Flagler Business School of UNC Chapel Hill where he established the STAR Program guiding MBA students to help NC businesses.