Resignations create two vacancies as the county continues reviewing major development proposals
By BC News Staff Writer
BOLIVIA, NC — Two members of the Brunswick County Planning Board resigned in March, leaving Districts 3 and 4 without representation as the county continues to navigate rapid population growth and a steady stream of large development proposals.
Vice Chairman Jason Gaver and board member Jim Board submitted resignations several weeks apart. Both departures were formally accepted by the Brunswick County Board of Commissioners, according to county meeting records.
Gaver Steps Down After Moving Out of the County – Jason Gaver’s resignation followed a procedural requirement outlined in county ordinance: Planning Board members must reside in the district they represent for the duration of their term. After relocating outside Brunswick County, Gaver became ineligible to continue serving.
His departure leaves District 3 vacant. The Board of Commissioners will appoint a replacement to complete the remainder of the term.
Board Resigns Over Concerns About Limited Authority – Jim Board, who represented District 4, submitted a resignation letter citing ongoing frustration with the Planning Board’s limited ability to influence or manage growth. His letter, a public document filed with the county, expressed concern that the board’s authority is restricted by the structure of the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO).
Under county ordinance, the Planning Board’s decisions must be based strictly on UDO compliance. Broader issues such as school capacity, road improvements, emergency services, and long‑range infrastructure planning fall outside the board’s authority.
Board wrote that these constraints make it difficult to address the scale and pace of development occurring across Brunswick County.
Two Vacancies During a Period of Heavy Growth
With both resignations now official, the seven‑member Planning Board has two open seats. Alternate member Cecelia A. Herman may fill in as needed to maintain quorum, but permanent appointments must be made by the Board of Commissioners.
The vacancies come as the Planning Board continues to review major subdivisions, planned developments, and other large residential projects across the county.
The county’s next steps are expected to solicit applications and appoint new representatives for Districts 3 and 4. Meeting agendas, minutes, and accepted resignation documents are available through the Brunswick County Agendas & Minutes Portal.
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