Carolina Shores Commissioners Deny Golf Course Housing Development

Residents raise concerns over flooding, traffic, and property values

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Carolina Shores town commissioners have denied a rezoning request that would have allowed a vacant golf course to be converted into a 120-home housing development. The decision came in a 3-1 vote after residents packed the town hall, voicing concerns about flooding issues, traffic, and property values. Commissioners cited the town's Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) Comprehensive Plan and public comment in the denial.

Why it matters

The decision highlights the tension between development and preserving open space in coastal communities. Residents have expressed a desire to maintain the character of the existing golf course, while the developer warned that the denial could lead to a different, less desirable outcome for the property.

The details

The development team included Philippe Bureau, owner of Carolina Shores Golf and Country Club, developer Mike Metheny, G3 Engineering firm, and an attorney representing the developer. Bureau said the request was meant to save open space on the property, but warned the denial could lead to a 1-acre development subdivision with bigger homes that doesn't match the community.

  • The rezoning request was denied in a 3-1 vote on February 10, 2026.

The players

Chad Hicks

Carolina Shores town administrator.

Philippe Bureau

Owner of Carolina Shores Golf and Country Club.

Mike Metheny

Developer involved in the proposed housing development.

John Billmyer

Carolina Shores resident who opposed the proposed development.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We were a little taken aback.”

— Philippe Bureau, Owner, Carolina Shores Golf and Country Club (WECT)

“We will develop the entire property with 1-acre lots so there'll be no open space, there'll be no storm water, it will just be a 1-acre development subdivision with bigger homes that doesn't match the community now. What they fought us against is what they're gonna get. Unfortunate.”

— Philippe Bureau, Owner, Carolina Shores Golf and Country Club (WECT)

“I'm happy it didn't get approved, yes, and everybody here was happy. There wasn't a person here for it other than the people who were presenting it.”

— John Billmyer, Carolina Shores Resident (WECT)

What’s next

According to Town Administrator Chad Hicks, the developer and Bureau will have to return to the board of commissioners and meet requirements in the Unified Development Ordinance if they choose to move forward with a different development plan for the property.

The takeaway

This decision highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing development and preserving the character of coastal communities. While the developer warned of a less desirable outcome, the commissioners and residents have made it clear that maintaining the existing open space and addressing concerns over flooding, traffic, and property values are priorities for the town of Carolina Shores.