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The Shoreline
This is neither the time nor the place to recite various EMS criticisms and/or shortcomings which
^Phave been noted and reported through the years. While they - like all of us - are regretfully “less
than perfect” the letters and out-bursts would have you believe that the Pine Knoll Shores EMS
service is without fault. Any suggested improvements or changes coming from Commissioners, are
“uninformed and insensitive” in their opinion. Our EMS has been doing a respectable job -
supplemented by Town money and assistance from the Pine Knoll Shores Police. Times are
changing, and elected public officials would be irresponsible if they did not recognize the changes,
and take steps to adjust to current realities. We are all getting older, volunteers are scarce, demands
are greater, more sophisticated services are now necessary, and legal liability continues to grow -
these are FACTS. The performance of follow-up personal care and support is very important and
always valued and appreciated. However, getting immediate critical care from fuliv gualified
professionals is the issue. How that is done in the best possible way is what we should all be
concentrating upon - not “Who’s in charge”.
Pine Knoll Shores has a long, distinguished history of “Volunteerism”. We should all celebrate
and work to continue this noble tradition which has served our Community well since its founding. Let
us all remember and acknowledge that Volunteers do not assume “ownership” by virtue of their
sen/ice. Through the years, there is no recorded history of Volunteers claiming Title to our street
entrances and public building by virtue of the floral enrichments, or our many other Volunteer services
- until now. EMS seems to feel that by virtue of Volunteering, “they own it”. Further, true “volunteers”
do not acquire the right to “dictate terms” or acrimoniously resign. This is an unfortunate distortion
^)f the legitimate meaning of “Volunteerism” which we hope they can overcome, and you can
^^ecognize.
We trust that the Citizens of Pine Knoll Shores will understand that your Commissioners
personally depend on Emergency Medical Sen/ices, just as you do. We must address - not condemn
or deny - the current realities, and we must take the necessary steps to provide quality service. If
our well-intended efforts are simply criticized and objected to - so be it. As elected public officials,
we are legally obligated to do the right thing. Please consider these facts carefully before assuming
that there is only “one-side” to this unpleasant controversy. Thank You.
Unanimously adopted by the Pine Knoll Shores Commissioners, March 5, 2002.
Planning Board
The Planning Board reviewed a proposed amendment to the zoning ordinance to allow structures for
public beach access to be constructed within side setbacks in various zoning districts. This would
allow the town to construct 5' walkways within 10' easements acquired by the town for public beach
access. The Planning Board could not reach a consensus and made no recommendation.
Emergency Management
Time to make sure you can locate your hurricane re-entry permit. If a permanent
re-entry permit was previously issued a replacement will cost $20. Re-entry permits can
be obtained at Town Hall, but don't wait until the last minute. No permits will be issued
once the evacuation order is given. Proof of residence is required.