Bob Liepa

1 week ago | stateportpilot.com | Bob Liepa

When it comes to its mission, the Southport Historic Preservation Commission keeps three Ps in mind: preserve, promote, protect. That is the idea for local historic district design standards, that were two years in the making, presented by the commission on April 7 for the board of aldermen’s review and adoption. Working with city staff and Stewart Consultants, the nine-member commission approved the 109-page draft on March 5.

1 week ago | stateportpilot.com | Bob Liepa

The Southport Police Department, the last occupant of the old city hall/historic courthouse building that has remained vacant for nine years, will return to the Moore Street building. With a 4-2 vote, the Southport Board of Aldermen designated old city hall for dual use by the police, with the second-floor former courtroom to serve as chambers for the city’s boards. Aldermen Robert Carroll and Karen Mosteller voted against the motion during the April 10 meeting at the Southport Community Building.

2 weeks ago | stateportpilot.com | Bob Liepa

Bald Head Island has a revised beach bonfire ordinance. The Bald Head Island Village Council passed the amended ordinance March 21, stipulating that no more than one burn permit shall be issued per beach access in a single day. The permit applications are reviewed by the public safety director, who has the power to approve, deny, revoke or limit permits based on environmental conditions, safety concerns or other factors in the public interest.

2 weeks ago | stateportpilot.com | Bob Liepa

Southport Deputy Finance Director Joey Kronenwetter has a deep connection to the city. He attended Southport Elementary School before moving onto South Brunswick Middle School and South Brunswick High School. He proposed to his wife, Becca, on the Southport City Marsh Walk during the 2019 North Carolina Fourth of July Festival. Following the birth of his daughter, Kennedy, he took her on a stroll around town after bringing her home from the hospital.

2 weeks ago | stateportpilot.com | Bob Liepa

When the City of Southport closed Franklin Square Park temporarily on Dec. 21, 2023, some people may have figured that effectively shut down Downtown Southport, Inc. (DSI). The nonprofit organization held many of its annual events there, and announced it was suspending its outdoor market and festivals for 2024. Any rumors of DSI’s demise, however, were premature. DSI has a new president, a new structure and several upcoming events.