State Takes Control in Brunswick County | Wilmington News

Wilmington News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Jul 27, 2026 · 1m

Brunswick County is in the midst of a power struggle over development, as state laws strip towns like Leland and Southport of local control over annexation and historic protections. Residents frustrated with ignored local voices are pushing state lawmakers, while mayors argue that local officials — who live and understand the community — must steer growth. Real impacts are already here: Leland’s annexation freeze created uncertainty, Southport lost jurisdiction over its edges and tax revenue, and now county commissioners, not planning boards, approve major projects. The debate over state vs…