Johnston Commissioners To Revisit Development Rules; UDO Adoption Remains Uncertain

SMITHFIELD – Johnston County Commissioners will take another look at proposed development regulations Monday night, but a final vote on the county’s long-awaited Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) could be delayed as the board works through several unresolved issues.

Commissioners had hoped to adopt the new UDO at their November 16 meeting. However, disagreements remain over certain requirements, particularly how much separation developers should provide between new residential subdivisions and neighboring farms.

During public input sessions, many Johnston County residents expressed support for agricultural buffers of at least 75 feet to protect existing farms from encroaching residential development.

However, county officials must determine whether requiring buffers of that size would conflict with state law by reducing the amount of land available for development.

The proposed UDO would establish updated regulations governing land use, subdivisions and future development throughout unincorporated Johnston County.

The ordinance has been under review for months, with county officials seeking to balance continued residential and commercial growth with concerns from farmers and existing property owners.

Commissioners are expected to discuss the remaining issues Monday night, although it is unclear when the ordinance will be ready for final adoption.

Water Line For Benson Industrial Development

Commissioners will also hold a public hearing on a proposed $1.7 million water line extension to serve an industrial development near Benson.

The improvements are being considered in connection with Vulcan Elements, which is planning a nearly $1 billion rare-earth magnet manufacturing facility expected to create 1,000 jobs.

The company has indicated it needs additional water capacity for its operations.

County officials say the proposed water line would also improve water service capacity for other businesses locating within the industrial development.

The project would be funded with an $800,000 state grant and approximately $900,000 in county funds.

Commissioners will hear public comments before considering the proposed expenditure.

Broadband Funding Deadline Approaches

Another item involves a proposed contract amendment with Brightspeed, which is expanding high-speed internet service in Johnston County through a state-administered broadband program.

Under the original agreement, the county would reimburse Brightspeed for its share of construction costs after the work was completed.

However, the federal COVID-relief funds designated for the county’s contribution must be spent by December 31, and Brightspeed has indicated the work will not be finished by that deadline.

The proposed amendment would allow the county to reimburse the company for eligible construction expenses already incurred, rather than waiting until the entire project is completed.

Other Business Before Commissioners

Commissioners will consider renewing an agreement with Isaiah 117 House, a nonprofit organization that provides a temporary home for children entering foster care.

The original agreement limited the facility to Johnston County children. A proposed change would allow the organization to serve children from other counties when space is available.

The board will also consider a second-year funding agreement with Alliance Health for behavioral health urgent care services available to Johnston County residents.

The county’s contribution would help cover treatment costs not paid by insurance, state grants or other funding sources. Virtual services began earlier this year, and in-person services are expected to become available.

Commissioners will also review a proposed $26,000 increase to a software contract associated with the county’s new online development permitting portal. The additional funding would allow the system to connect with the county’s online payment software.

The Johnston County Board of Commissioners will meet at 6 p.m. Monday, November 16, at the Johnston County Courthouse in Smithfield.