Emerald Tidings, composed monthly by Town Manager Matt Zapp,

is the official newsletter of the Town of Emerald Isle, NC.

Hello, Emerald Isle residents and friends!

We hope this email finds you well and filled with the warmth of community spirit. As we step into the month of February, it's time to embrace the latest edition of the "Emerald Tidings."

Our beloved coastal town always has something exciting happening, and this newsletter is your window into all the news, events, and updates that make Emerald Isle a truly special place to live and visit.

Dredging, Beach Nourishment & Beach Driving

Dredging of the Bogue Inlet began on January 1, 2024. The dredging and beach nourishment contract is coordinated by the Army Corp of Engineers and Carteret County.

The project is anticipated to take up to six weeks to complete. The targeted completion for the project is mid-February 2024. 

Currently, the Army Corps of Engineers contractor is dredging approximately 200,000 cubic yards out the ICWW crossing at Bogue Inlet. The dredge spoil material is being beneficially used to nourish the beach at the Point in Emerald Isle. The sand will be placed starting 1,500 linear feet from the inlet and run East down the beach until the project is completed. We estimate the end point to be near Doe Dr.  

Carteret County, the Town of Emerald Isle and the North Carolina Shallow Draft Navigation Fund are using a MOA with the ACOE to collectively fund the project. We expect the project will be completed on time, but there is always the potential for delays due to weather and equipment malfunction. This event will constitute the 7^th time since 2006 that this type of project has been done.

Beach Driving Restriction: 

For everyone’s safety, beach driving will be closed from the Doe ramp (west) towards The Point. Beach Driving will be suspended west of the Doe Drive ramp to The Point between 01/01/2024 through 02/15/2024. This area of the beach will be unavailable and off-limits to beach driving during the duration of the dredging and beach nourishment project. 

We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your understanding during the completion of this project. If the project is completed sooner than scheduled, we will re-open this area.

Emerald Isle Holiday Decorations Initiative

In response to the desire to enhance Emerald Isle's charm beyond the summer season, a committee was established to revitalize the town's holiday decorations. Led by Steve Finch, retired Town Commissioner, and supported by local resident Irving Monclova's initial funding, the committee comprises Lydia Lewis, Van Sutton, Angie Sutton, and Darcel Browning, all committed to realizing this vision.

Currently, the committee has secured substantial funding from generous donors, with the Town of Emerald Isle Board of Commissioners pledging to match these contributions throughout 2024. All funds raised will directly fund the acquisition of new decorations and infrastructure improvements, including expanded electrical connections in strategic locations. This long-term project aims to elevate the holiday ambiance for residents, property owners, and visitors, establishing Emerald Isle as a premier holiday destination.

Individuals and businesses are encouraged to contribute, regardless of the amount. As we enter a crucial fundraising phase for the 2024 holiday season, timely donations are essential to facilitate procurement and installation. We deeply appreciate your generosity and support toward this exciting endeavor for our community.

Please make checks payable to The Town of Emerald Isle and send them to:

The Town of Emerald Isle

Attn: Laura Rotchford

7500 Emerald Drive

Emerald Isle, NC 28594

Adhering to Speed Limits: Safeguarding Emerald Isle's Community

Emerald Isle boasts serene beaches, picturesque landscapes, and a vibrant community that welcomes visitors and locals alike. As we traverse its scenic roads, it's crucial to remember the importance of adhering to speed limits. Speed limits aren't just arbitrary numbers; they are vital safeguards for our community's safety and well-being.

At the heart of Emerald Isle's charm is its commitment to maintaining a family-friendly environment. As families enjoy a leisurely stroll or cyclists exploring the coastline, our streets are bustling with activity. By obeying speed limits, drivers actively contribute to the safety of everyone sharing our roads.

Exceeding speed limits not only endangers pedestrians, cyclists, and pets, it also puts fellow drivers at risk. In a community where families thrive and visitors seek solace, reckless driving has no place. Each mile per hour over the limit increases the likelihood of accidents and diminishes the precious sense of security we've cultivated in Emerald Isle.

Furthermore, adhering to speed limits aligns with our commitment to environmental stewardship. By driving at controlled speeds, we reduce fuel consumption and minimize harmful emissions, thus preserving the natural beauty that defines our beloved coastal town.

As responsible members of the Emerald Isle community, it's incumbent upon us to lead by example. By obeying speed limits, we demonstrate our respect for our neighbors, our environment, and the spirit of camaraderie that defines our town.

The Town of Emerald Isle remains steadfast in its dedication to ensuring safe roadways for all. Through ongoing education and enforcement efforts, we strive to foster a culture of responsible driving and mutual respect among residents and visitors alike.

Let us embrace the shared responsibility of safeguarding our community's well-being. Together, let's pledge to honor speed limits, not just as rules to follow, but as a testament to our commitment to the collective safety and harmony of Emerald Isle.

In essence, driving within the speed limits isn't just a legal obligation—it's a moral imperative that reflects our dedication to preserving the essence of Emerald Isle for generations to come. Let's keep our streets safe, our community vibrant, and our Emerald Isle cherished by all.

EI Coffee Press

We're thrilled to introduce you to the brand-new "EI Coffee Press" – your go-to source for the updates, community stories, and information about our beloved Emerald Isle!

Keep an eye out for the paper edition of the "EI Coffee Press" at your favorite local businesses, and remember, your community stories are our stories.

Emerald Isle Yard Debris Collection Program

The Town of Emerald Isle is committed to maintaining a clean and beautiful environment for all its residents and visitors. As part of our ongoing efforts, we would like to remind everyone of our Yard Debris Collection Policy.



The Emerald Isle Public Works Department operates two knuckle boom collection trucks, five days a week. In 2023, the Yard Debris Team drove a total of 20,452 miles and made 35,283 residential stops. They secured 598 loads of material, totaling 2,691 tons of sticks, that will be chipped and recycled.

Where is the Knuckle Boom truck today?

Public Works rolled out technology that gives Town residents a bird's eye view of where the yard debris trucks are along their routes. The system allows residents to view the truck routes and see when their yard debris may be picked up by Public Works staff. Depending on various factors, such as distance traveled and the size of yard debris piles, times may vary on a weekly basis.

EIPW’s Yard Debris Tracker:  https://www.emeraldisle-nc.org/230/Yard-Debris-Truck-Tracker



What are the yard debris guidelines?

To maintain a clean and safe environment, property owners are asked to adhere to the following guidelines regarding yard debris collection:

Placement: Place yard debris at the curbside in front of your property, ensuring it does not obstruct traffic flow or interfere with utilities. Avoid placing debris under power lines, on water meters, or near mailboxes.

Vacant Lots: Yard waste from vacant lots cannot be collected by town staff. Property owners are responsible for the removal of yard waste generated from vacant lots they own. If the property owner of the vacant lot also owns a developed lot in Emerald Isle, he/she may place yard waste at the vacant lot to be picked up as long as it was not generated from the vacant lot.

Trimming Size: Trimmed trees and shrubs should not exceed six feet in length and should be piled for efficient collection. Loose leaves and grasses may be bagged in biodegradable bags.

Size Limit: Yard waste piles should not exceed 10x10x4 feet. Excess material will be left for the next collection cycle or should be removed by the homeowner or contractor.

No Co-mingling: Yard waste must not be mixed with building materials like landscape timbers or lumber.

Prohibited Disposal: Do not deposit yard debris into catch basins or manholes. Loose leaves or grasses should not be blown into stormwater systems or streets.

Illegal Dumping: Dumping yard waste illegally will result in prosecution.

Violations: Failure to comply may lead to temporary suspension of yard debris collection until violations are corrected.

For more information, visit: https://www.emeraldisle-nc.org/227/Public-Works-Solid-Waste

Let's work together to keep Emerald Isle clean and beautiful. Thank you for your cooperation.

Protecting Your Home from Unwanted Rodents 

As residents of Emerald Isle, we cherish our coastal paradise and strive to keep our homes safe and comfortable. One challenge that many homeowners face, especially during colder months, is the intrusion of unwanted rodents. To help you safeguard your home, here are some valuable tips:

Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home for any openings where rodents could enter, such as gaps around doors, windows, pipes, and vents. Seal these openings using caulk or steel wool to prevent easy access for rodents.

Keep Food Secure: Store food in airtight containers, including pet food and birdseed. Rodents are attracted to accessible food sources, so keeping your pantry and kitchen tidy and organized will deter them from making themselves at home.

Maintain Cleanliness: Regularly clean up crumbs and spills, both inside and outside your home. Rodents are drawn to areas with food debris and clutter, so keeping your living spaces clean and clutter-free will make them less appealing to pests.

Trim Vegetation: Keep trees and shrubs trimmed away from your home to eliminate potential hiding spots and pathways for rodents to access your roof and attic.

Use Proper Storage: Store firewood and outdoor equipment at least 18 inches off the ground and away from the exterior of your home. Rodents often nest in stacks of wood and can easily transition from outdoor areas to the interior of your home if given the opportunity.

Schedule Regular Inspections: Consider scheduling professional pest inspections on a regular basis to identify and address potential rodent infestations before they become serious problems.

By implementing these preventative measures, you can protect your home and family from the nuisance and potential health risks associated with unwanted rodents. Together, let's ensure that Emerald Isle remains a pest-free haven for all its residents.

Hosted at Ballroom of The Islander Hotel

102 Islander Drive, Emerald Isle, NC 28594

RSVPs are requested by Tuesday, February 6 at noon.

mcrews@emeraldisle-nc.org

Please help us disseminate this information to others

in your organization who may benefit from attending.

Emerald Isle Fishing Tournament

Scholarship Applications Available

The Emerald Isle Fishing Tournament has up to six scholarships available for area students who are pursuing a degree in Marine Sciences or Technologies.

These $3,000 scholarships are available to graduating seniors at Croatan, West Carteret, East Carteret and Swansboro high schools.

You can find the application details and materials on the Town's website, or on the Emerald Isle Fishing Tournament website.

Jr. Lifeguard Camp Registration Opens April 1

Are you interested in camp opportunities for your children through the Town of Emerald Isle? Registration for Jr. Lifeguard Camp opens April 1, followed by registration for Summer Day Camp on April 10.

Summer Day Camp is held through Emerald Isle Parks and Recreation and spots are awarded through a lottery system.

Apply To Work For the Town of Emerald Isle

The Town of Emerald Isle is now hiring a limited number of full time and part time positions, as well as seasonal lifeguard positions. Visit our website for a full list of available positions and apply online for the one best suited to you.

Do you have what it takes to be an Emerald Isle Ocean Rescue Lifeguard,

or know someone who does?

Applications are now open for lifeguard positions in 2024. You can find the job

description and application on the Town's website.

The Emerald Isle Fire Department will begin testing in January, and training will start mid-March. Lifeguards will be on the beach strand in phases, beginning April 1.

Beach Access Parking Permit

Applications Available Soon

Regional Beach Access Parking Permits for Emerald Isle taxpayers, and other select groups, will be available online starting March 1.

Beginning April 1, you will also be able to apply for these permits in person. Please note, due to high demand, same-day service may not be available.

Paid beach parking will begin on on April 15 and will run through September 15. You can find additional details about paid parking and these passes on our website.

Apply For Your 2024 Golf Cart Permit

Golf cart permits are now available for 2024 through the Emerald Isle Police Department. These permits expire on December 31 of each year, no matter when you last purchased a permit.

You can find the full list of golf cart rules and regulations on our website, along with your permit application. In addition, watch our video below for an overview of Emerald Isle's golf cart rules.

Beach Driving Permit Applications Available

There are still a few months remaining in this beach driving season, and applications are available online at www.emeraldisle-nc.org, or in person at the Police Department, at 7500 Emerald Drive.

You will receive an email alerting you when your permit is ready to be picked up at the EIPD.

The official beach driving season began September 15th, and will conclude on April 30. There is a ten-day period around Easter when beach driving is closed.

Watch the video below for information on the beach driving application process.

Emerald Isle Neighborhood Watch

Join the Emerald Isle Neighborhood Watch in 2024! You can learn more information and helpful hints about keeping yourself and your neighborhood safe on our Neighborhood Watch webpage.

Fire Safety Tip Of The Month

Carbon monoxide (CO) is the leading cause of accidental poisoning deaths in America. The only safe way to know if there is CO in your home is to arm your family with the appropriate CO alarm. 

Carbon monoxide poisoning can manifest gradually or suddenly, often masquerading as common illnesses such as the flu, rendering it exceptionally perilous. Early detection through a CO alarm is a critical lifeline, allowing for immediate evacuation and medical intervention, thereby preventing severe illness or fatality.

For any additional information contact the Emerald Isle Fire Department at 252-354-2445.

Register for the Medically Fragile List

Please note, that this registration service was previously handled through Carteret County Emergency Services. If you previously signed up through the County, you will need to register with the Emerald Isle Fire Department.

Emerald Isle Fire Department provides special medical care and/or help evacuating during disasters, including hurricanes, to those who are registered under the Medically Fragile List.

It is important to note that this form should be completed and submitted to EIFD well in advance of impending disasters. If you or your family member are not already on this list, please take the time today to register.

Contact the Emerald Isle Fire Department at 252-354-2445 if you have additional questions, or would like to register with the Medically Fragile list.

Garden Club Hosts Annual Event



The Emerald Isle Garden Club is hosting their Annual Card & Games Party.

The event will take place on March 6th from 1 - 4pm at the Emerald Isle Community Center located at 203 Leisure Lane Emerald Isle.

Advance ticket sales only, none sold at the door and must be received by February 26th. Contact Theresa Connelly-Kavanagh at 252-764-0420

or eigardenclub@gmail.com

Ticket includes delicious desserts, beverages & and a chance at a door prize. 

Tickets will be sold at the event for assorted baskets & gifts & a cash raffle.

Join the Isle Miles Initiative

Hey there, fellow Islanders!

We might be a week late to the New Year's resolutions game, but better late than never, right?

The Bike and Pedestrian Committee is thrilled to introduce to you an exciting initiative that's going to get your heart pumping and your feet moving. We proudly present to you: 'Isle Miles'!



Learn more here

Stay Up To Date: Follow Us Online

The Town of Emerald Isle has a number of official online platforms you can use to stay connected to the latest news, upcoming events, the Parks and Recreation monthly calendars, our live beach and traffic cameras, and more.

You can also view the monthly Board of Commissioners meetings, which are live streamed on our Facebook page. These meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m.

Carteret-Craven Electric Cooperative Information

Carteret-Craven Electric Cooperative (CCEC) is pleased to offer Touchstone Energy Sports Camp Scholarships for rising sixth and seventh-grade students to attend basketball camps in June. Young women can apply for a scholarship to attend the Wolfpack Women’s Basketball Camp at N.C. State University. Young men can apply for a scholarship to attend the Carolina Basketball School at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Eligible students can apply online by completing a form that includes two short essays, and all applicants must have a parent or guardian’s signature. The deadline to apply is March 31, 2023. Scholarship recipients will be announced in May. For more information on the Touchstone Energy Sports Camp Scholarship program and to access the applications, please visit www.ccemc.com/SportsCamps.

Bogue Banks Water Corporation

BBWC Customers,

If planning on leaving your home for an extended period of time, evacuating for a hurricane or winterizing your home, please be sure to cut off your water at your customer cut off valve.

Most customer cut off valves are located in a green box close to BBWC's black meter box near the street. If you need help locating your customer cut off valve, please call our office and we can schedule for a technician to come out and mark your box with flags.

Note: Any repairs or replacement needed for the customer cut off valve are the responsibility of the customer. Please call a plumber.

As always, thank you for being our valued customers!