The May 12th meeting of the Waxhaw Board of Commissioners covered a wide range of topics — from local history and Revolutionary War reenactments to development code reform, transportation safety grants, and concerns about private infrastructure in future subdivisions.
While there was no public comment period participation this month, the meeting itself featured several substantive discussions that could have long-term impacts on how Waxhaw grows and preserves its history.
Young Voices and Local Pride
One of the lighter and more encouraging moments of the evening came during recognition of the America 250 NC fourth-grade county flag contest winners. Students from across Union County designed flags representing what the area means to them, with themes centered around agriculture, the historic overhead bridge, schools, barns, weather, and community identity.
The presentations were a reminder that even through the eyes of children, Waxhaw’s identity remains deeply tied to its small-town character, agriculture, and historic roots.
Waxhaw African American History Project
Assistant Planning Director Janet Peirano presented the results of the Waxhaw African American History Project, funded through a National Park Service grant awarded in 2024.
The project documented oral histories, historic sites, schools, churches, businesses, and neighborhoods connected to Waxhaw’s African American community. Thirteen oral histories were recorded and submitted to the state archives.
Some of the more fascinating findings included:
- The identification of historic African American neighborhoods along Howie Mine Road (“the low end”) and Waxhaw-Marvin Road/Sandy Ridge.
- The history of the Rosenwald School built in 1924, later converted into a community center.
- The role of Fourth of July baseball games and picnics as major community homecoming events.
- The discovery of significant contributions from African American brick masons whose craftsmanship still shapes portions of Waxhaw’s architecture today.
One particularly important recommendation involved the East Side Cemetery, where many graves are believed to be unmarked. Staff discussed the possibility of using ground-penetrating radar to document burial sites and better preserve the cemetery’s history.
The discussion reflected a broader effort to ensure that parts of Waxhaw’s history that were previously underdocumented are preserved and shared with future generations.
“Remember the Waxhaws”
The Board also heard a presentation about the upcoming Battle of the Waxhaws Reenactment and Living History Weekend, scheduled for June 5–7 at the Museum of the Waxhaws.
Museum representatives explained that this year’s event is expected to feature roughly 200 reenactors, including cavalry units and Revolutionary War living historians.
Commissioners emphasized both the educational and cultural importance of the event. One notable comment referenced the Revolutionary War-era phrase “Remember the Waxhaws,” highlighting the area’s place in early American history.
Mayor Robert J. Murray III also made an observation that likely resonated with many residents:
“History is not a dead thing. It’s a living thing there for us to learn and appreciate.”
Development Code Amendments Spark Lengthy Discussion
The most substantive and technical discussion of the evening centered around proposed amendments to the Town of Waxhaw Planning Department Land Development Code (LDC).
Development Services Director Kevin Robinson explained that staff is working through approximately 16 sections of the LDC that he believes need clarification or revision.
This first package focused on:
- Minor subdivisions
- Private streets
- Conservation subdivision lot coverage
Closing “Paper Street” Loopholes
A major concern discussed was the existence of “paper streets” and undeveloped lots created through older subdivision practices. Robinson explained that the proposed changes are intended to prevent lots from being sold without adequate infrastructure planning.
The proposed amendments would tighten requirements so that subdivisions needing new infrastructure, shared amenities, or private/public streets would receive more detailed review rather than qualifying for streamlined minor subdivision treatment.
Several commissioners expressed concern about long-term infrastructure liabilities, especially stormwater systems and road maintenance.
One recurring theme throughout the discussion was avoiding future situations where the Town inherits poorly planned infrastructure problems years later.
Private Streets and HOA Concerns
The conversation around private streets generated particularly strong discussion.
Questions were raised about:
- Who maintains private roads
- Whether HOAs should bear that responsibility
- What happens if maintenance obligations break down over time
- Whether Waxhaw could eventually become responsible for deteriorating private infrastructure
Commissioners referenced existing situations around town where maintenance responsibilities are unclear or poorly documented.
Staff clarified that private streets would still need to meet town engineering standards if they serve as primary access roads.
The broader policy direction appeared focused on reducing future ambiguity and limiting scenarios where the Town could inherit infrastructure headaches.
Package Plant Concerns
Another noteworthy exchange involved private wastewater treatment systems, commonly called “package plants.”
Questions were raised about whether Waxhaw should continue allowing shared private wastewater systems in subdivisions. Commissioners voiced concerns about long-term maintenance, failures, and uncertainty surrounding responsibility if systems break down.
One commissioner remarked:
“From the experts I’ve spoken to, I’ve heard bad things about these package plants.”
Staff explained that state law limits how much the Town can prohibit individual well and septic systems, but acknowledged that shared systems raise separate concerns requiring future review.
Balancing Reform with State “Downzoning” Restrictions
An especially important philosophical discussion emerged around the pace of development code changes.
Concerns were raised that under current state law restrictions on “downzoning,” local governments may inadvertently make changes they cannot later reverse.
Commissioners emphasized the importance of moving carefully and digesting code changes in smaller, manageable pieces rather than attempting large-scale revisions too quickly.
That discussion likely reflects a broader tension many North Carolina municipalities are currently navigating: balancing growth management with increasing state limitations on local zoning authority.
Safe Streets Grant Moves Forward
The Board also continued discussions regarding Waxhaw’s application for a federal Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) implementation grant.
The Town is seeking up to $7.5 million in federal funding, with a required local match of $1.5 million spread over multiple years.
Proposed projects focus heavily on downtown and several key corridors, including:
- Howie Mine Road
- North Church Street
- McDonald Street
- Price Street
- Caldwell Street
Town staff emphasized that the application remains highly competitive, but the Town has been working closely with consultants to strengthen its chances.
Final Thoughts
The May 12th meeting showcased several recurring themes that continue to shape Waxhaw:
- Preserving local history and identity
- Managing growth responsibly
- Avoiding long-term infrastructure liabilities
- Balancing development flexibility with fiscal caution
- Maintaining local control over planning decisions
While some agenda items were ceremonial or procedural, the deeper conversations around infrastructure, private streets, wastewater systems, and development regulation may ultimately have some of the longest-lasting consequences for the town’s future growth and financial stability.
The regular meeting adjourned to allow for a special budget meeting, linked below: