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Good evening everyone, and welcome to the june 10th, 2025 new board of alderman

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e. The prayer tonight be coordinated by alderman prill. Yep.

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uh, thank you, mayor. Um, pastor johnson, you arrived just

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in time. Floor is your

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all. I can say to god be the glory. Yeah.

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I want to thank my beloved mond

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for placing such trust in me to

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give the opening prayer for this great meeting.

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and, um, I'm just overwhelmed.

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thank you, mayor and all for your present

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here today. Tell me about his,

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our almighty father in heaven. The, the

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creator of heaven and earth. The giver of all good and

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perfect gifts, the giver of life, health,

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strength, and salvation. Right early

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this morning, you didn't let us sleep

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too late, early this morning, you reached

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down from heaven with all power,

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from heaven and earth. In your heads,

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you touched us with your love, your compassion,

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grace and mercy. You bless

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us to look on

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a brand new day, a day we never seen before.

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you have been mighty, mighty, mighty good to us

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in this day. Yes. You brought us over the

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dangers, highways and bows to

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this city. Council of the meeting.

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one more day. One

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more day. You brought us together.

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we thank you, our father. Thank you lord

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for one more alderman meeting.

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we have come from the north, south, east, and

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west to sit at table

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in this historic meeting. Yes, we have

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come out of love, respect for our city,

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uh, leaders and citizen, all because we are

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concerned about the health,

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the wellbeing of our city and citizen.

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our father. We come before you as an

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empty picture before a full fountain.

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look on us with your all. See and eyes.

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remove every sin from within our heart

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and soul. Fill us with all your

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love, your joy, your peace,

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your unity, that we might be all just like

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you in this meeting. Our

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father, give us your

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peace and unity in this place

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and in our hearts, all because we are determined

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to do our best, to represent

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you and to make a strong, positive

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impression and difference in our city and in the lives

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of all of our citizens.

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in and throughout this meeting. To the end

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of this meeting and to and

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beyond, all I say to you today

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is to god be the glory

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for all the great things that you are to us.

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all the great things that you have done for us. Yes. And

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all the great things you will continue to do for us

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as we continue to work together and serve you

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as your people. In the mighty name of our risen savior, we offer this

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prayer and redeem of the lord. Say amen. Amen. Amen.

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amen. Thank pastor, if you're able to stand, please do so and pledge. Declare

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our practice. I pledge allegiance

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to the flag of the united states of america and

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to the republic for which it stands. One nation, another

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god, indivisible, with liberty and I justice all.

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madam clerk, if you would please call the roll alderman

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frill. Here. Alderman royal. Here. Alderman

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aser. Here. Mayor odom. Here. Alderman kenzie. Here.

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alderman vest. Present. Okay. Board item number three is to approve the agenda.

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are there any changes you'd like to make?

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if there's no changes, um, if

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there's no changes, I'd like to make a motion to approve the consent agenda as his second.

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I have a motion a second. Is there any discussion? Hearing

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none. All those in favor say aye. A a aye. Any opposed? Agendas approved.

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next is request and petition of citizens. Madam clerk.

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thank you.

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first up is nat crosby.

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thank you. Thank you.

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hey, y'all. Uh, good evening mayor and uh, board of aldermen.

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my name is nat mckeller crosby and I'm a resident of ward

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six, right here in newland. With the time I have, I would like to

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share an opportunity with all of you. And this opportunity

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is a viable and sustainable way to increase

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revenue for this city. Allowing for the funding of pertinent projects

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like storm water, drainage repair, safer roads for motorists, pedestrians

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and bicyclists, necessary upgrades for our utilities

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and our parks and recreation. A new fire station and

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emergency response center, all while generating a true wealth

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building economy right here in new this

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opportunity is the chartering of a public bank, which

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I've coined. The bank of new. A public bank is a financial

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institution like any other. So the city can hold its deposits

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that it usually gives to another institution in its own bank,

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allowing the bank of newburn to leverage those deposits 10 to one.

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and that means every 1 million that is deposited, you can put 10 million

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to work for this city, borrowing the funds needed for

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the infrastructure and other projects cited previously, and do so

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without exorbitant fees and interest rates that are typical and hinder these types

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of projects in the private markets.

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now, the major difference of a public bank is that it has a legal

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mandate to act in the interest of the community it serves.

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and this is the part where it gets good for our citizens. The

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bank of newburn would use its mandate to build a resilient economy,

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providing low cost lending opportunities for families to cover

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housing, education and transportation needs, as well

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as support our local small businesses, whether that's a startup company or your local,

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uh, favorite business looking to expand. Also,

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there are a number of passionate and dedicated nonprofits here in town, working hard

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to fill some of the gaps. The city could partner with the bank of new bern

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to create and fund these organizations, meaning programs like youth

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services, gun violence provision, uh, prevention and addiction support,

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uplifting our community as a whole with the bank

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of new bern. We would have the ability to take care of each other right here at home.

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I'm hoping that you would consider this opportunity as a way to keep our hard earned dollars

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right here in newbury. The go bonds if issued on the private

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market, will over the life of the debt, cost the city a minimum of

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$25 million. And that's just an interest payments alone.

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not to mention the extra cost of underwriting and the direct cost of issuance

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that will eat away at the principal amount of that debt. That interest and

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fees that would be paid out could stay right here in new,

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to increase our revenue and be put right back to work for us, our

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citizens and our economy. Now, the process for chartering

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a public bank begins with an application, um, with the office of the

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commissioner of banks. And the requirements are outlined in the, uh, general

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statutes chapter 53 c. And I will provide you all with

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a preliminary feasibility report that will include more details in the applicable

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laws and the process, as well as case studies, a timeline, a

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timeline and monetization options. I urge you all

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to have an open mind towards this fiscally responsible initiative

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and an open heart for the prosperity this can bring to the people of new bern and

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our economy. I thank you for your time, uh, and I

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wish you all well. Thank you. Thank you. Next is soray

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bliss.

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my name is soraya bliss from ward one. For months I've worked to address concerns

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regarding the historic preservation commission reaching out to offices

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across the city and every member of the board of alderman. Thank you to those of

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you who have responded. I have been advised that while the hpc board is

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responsible for its actions, the alderman are accountable to provide oversight.

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I respectfully request your leadership to address legal and public interest

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concerns with the hpc. You've been provided a document detailing

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some of these concerns, which will also be made available on the dear newburn

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hpc facebook page. The hpcs issues extend beyond

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ward one. Issues affect every ward one through six.

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the hpc is paid for through the general fund. Taxpayers from

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all wards share the cost of the hpc, including staff

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legal fees and compliance, such as the maintenance of city buildings.

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insurance companies calculate premiums using risk pools, not individual

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wards. When repairs are costly, so are insurance premiums.

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the hpcs conduct reflects on the city government as a whole.

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the hpc still fails to comply with the 2021 state mandate

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to update its enabling statutes. It illegally conducts closed committee

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meetings. It neglects to maintain or share legally required documents.

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it demonstrates a lack of understanding of its own governing rules. And it recently con

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conducted a vote in a design review, uh, pardon me, in a

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design review meeting and manipulated guidelines to achieve its

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desired outcome. Moreover, the hpc has not adhered to

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best practices engaged the public, or despite a devastating

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hurricane made any guideline updates for 52 months. And that change

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only addressed site planning compounding this, the hpc

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asserts unchecked authority stating in its rules of procedure with

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which it amends with zero oversight. That policies and rules

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of procedure in this document supersede any rules or

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procedure that may be referenced in the newburgh historic district guidelines

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translation. We, the hbc get to make our own rules when we

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want and how we want. And our rules are the ones that count the current

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guidelines and practices. Beg legal questions are inconsistently enforced.

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split the district to have and have nots, ignore sustainability and

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resiliency and undermine the pc's very purpose, intent, and

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goal. When confronted with concerns, the hpc

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dismisses them saying, we have it under control. When press for

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transparency and public engagement, they responded, put your concerns

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in writing and maybe we'll even call you. I did exactly

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as they asked. They publicly denied receiving documents and they

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never did call. I urge the alderman who are accountable for hpc

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oversight to direct the hpc to immediately establish a public inclusive

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guideline work group with a mandate to deliver an actionable plan

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for review by august 12th. Additionally, I request a moratorium

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on guideline update discussions or proposals in regular

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hpc meetings until the hpc demonstrates legal compliance

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and competency for at least two full hpc meeting cycles.

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resolving these issues requires no additional funding. Only your

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decisive leadership should resources be perceived

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as a barrier. I personally volunteer to coordinate all necessary

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efforts for guideline updates, ensuring public involvement,

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regulatory compliance, and tangible outcomes that benefit our community. Thank

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you for your time and consideration. Thank you. Thank you.

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next is carla crole.

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good evening mayor, board of alderman. Thank you for, uh, hearing

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my comments tonight. My name is carla prole and I am from ward six in the

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city of new bern. I became aware,

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uh, of the vacancy in the ward six alderman's position last summer.

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I have been active in trying to be part of the process to rectify

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that vacancy. Tonight I would like to ask the board how they

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intend, what is their plan to,

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to, to make an understanding of how their positions are interfering

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with their shared interest that all citizens in new bern

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deserve and are entitled to representation on this board.

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when two parties are not able to come to terms, it's usually because they're, they

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have different positions that are at odds. And the that difference of opinion

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also makes it difficult for them to understand that they have shared interests at heart.

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we do have a shared interest in shared governance, and indeed the charter

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for the city states that it is your obligation and your duty

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to ensure that all citizens are being represented.

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six people applied for the seat. Nobody got interviewed.

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um, there were three attempts to fill the appointment.

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three of the members of the board never changed their vote. The

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other three members of the board seemed open and willing to consider other candidates and

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endorse under candidates. Meanwhile, the

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constituents go without representation. This is not a good thing. There

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is a lot going on. In fact, the mayor acknowledged that when he

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said he wanted somebody who was ready to go on day one. That

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was 314 days ago, day one. Indeed

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during the main meeting when presented with 175

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legitimate signatures from ward six residents, the,

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the mayor stated that he wasn't gonna vote for anybody

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indeed. He then went on to assure us that there was only four more meetings before the, the, the

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election. In fact, between may 13th and when the next

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alderman takes the seat, there will have been six regularly

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scheduled monthly meetings. But beyond that, the alderman have

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public hearings called meetings and so forth. The work

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that you do far exceeds merely monthly meetings.

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we then were told that we were trying to put our hands on the scale

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of the election by pushing for darlene brown's candidacy.

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and this was said even after

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darlene's own words. In her letter to the board were read where

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she said she was willing to fill the vacancy but would decline running

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in the election in october. The city

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attorney sometime ago advised the mayor that when there is a contentious

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issue being debated, if the mayor wishes

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to engage in the matter, he is to turn the gavel over to

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the mayor pro tem. He did not rather,

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he asserted his opinion forcefully and used the gavel to

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quell dissent and threaten forcible removal

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of the dissenters. And so because there was

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a desire for somebody ready on day one, an incorrect

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assessment of the number of meetings that were left, and a frankly

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insulting remark that ward six representatives were tampering

241
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with the election. Ward six now faces

242
00:18:29,145 --> 00:18:32,445
the reality that we will have been without representation for 496

243
00:18:34,235 --> 00:18:38,205
days. Perhaps we do not have a shared interest

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00:18:39,265 --> 00:18:42,995
in equal representation. What

245
00:18:43,285 --> 00:18:46,975
is the thank you for your comments. Thank

246
00:18:47,325 --> 00:18:47,845
you. Thank you.

247
00:18:55,395 --> 00:18:55,395
next

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00:19:06,235 --> 00:19:09,845
good evening, board of alderman and mayor. Good evening. Can you hear me?

249
00:19:10,265 --> 00:19:14,265
yes. Yes sir. I don't want to lecture you

250
00:19:15,325 --> 00:19:18,995
'cause you are all grown adults and leaders elected

251
00:19:19,745 --> 00:19:23,325
by constituents. But the journey

252
00:19:23,785 --> 00:19:26,795
of a thousand miles begins with the first step.

253
00:19:28,695 --> 00:19:32,545
these journeys that we all take are different journeys. So

254
00:19:32,765 --> 00:19:35,605
we can't assume that each step is equal

255
00:19:37,705 --> 00:19:41,575
for me to walk out my door as an african american black

256
00:19:41,985 --> 00:19:45,285
man in this country, I may walk out my door

257
00:19:46,465 --> 00:19:50,405
and be accused of something or an immigrant

258
00:19:50,865 --> 00:19:54,545
may walk out their door and go to work, earn a decent pay,

259
00:19:54,995 --> 00:19:58,745
obey all the rules, and be put in prison in

260
00:19:59,085 --> 00:20:02,645
the next hour. Each step of us for this journey

261
00:20:03,385 --> 00:20:04,925
of a thousand miles is different.

262
00:20:07,585 --> 00:20:11,555
so true with a healthy democracy. It begins with

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00:20:11,865 --> 00:20:15,325
you, the board of aldermen, the first governing body for the

264
00:20:15,885 --> 00:20:19,675
citizens of new bern, north carolina, where we are all citizens

265
00:20:20,295 --> 00:20:23,635
and have the first step is to participate in your election.

266
00:20:24,985 --> 00:20:28,475
each of you are elected and represents a certain constituency.

267
00:20:30,545 --> 00:20:33,855
each of you were elected and not placed

268
00:20:35,095 --> 00:20:36,565
by an autocratic government.

269
00:20:39,425 --> 00:20:42,635
unfortunately, our government

270
00:20:43,505 --> 00:20:47,445
here in new bern, north carolina and democracy is not healthy.

271
00:20:48,945 --> 00:20:52,085
it is not healthy because there is a seat there

272
00:20:53,035 --> 00:20:56,645
that has not, that's been vacant for 400

273
00:20:57,275 --> 00:21:00,565
some days or will be for 400 some days.

274
00:21:01,825 --> 00:21:04,845
so if we expect a healthy democracy for all citizens,

275
00:21:05,885 --> 00:21:09,865
a diverse community, how is it that we can

276
00:21:10,085 --> 00:21:12,515
start off with an unhealthy governing

277
00:21:14,625 --> 00:21:18,465
the citizens and all of its citizens and ward six

278
00:21:19,195 --> 00:21:23,045
have not been represented in this board of aldermen

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00:21:23,285 --> 00:21:25,725
and its first government body of new bern, north carolina.

280
00:21:27,585 --> 00:21:31,445
the membership of you does not represent me as a

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00:21:31,845 --> 00:21:35,625
resident of new bern, north carolina. The

282
00:21:36,165 --> 00:21:40,105
citizens have the opportunity to vote and

283
00:21:40,475 --> 00:21:43,235
instead of working on how do we fill this seat,

284
00:21:44,705 --> 00:21:47,825
now we are faced instead of why

285
00:21:48,945 --> 00:21:52,785
we have not filled this seat. Instead of

286
00:21:53,325 --> 00:21:57,265
resolving this miscarriage of democracy, you

287
00:21:57,485 --> 00:22:00,955
are now complicit in an unhealthy governing

288
00:22:01,635 --> 00:22:04,995
body. We have a vacant seat

289
00:22:06,185 --> 00:22:10,145
in ward six, and whether it's one minute before

290
00:22:10,565 --> 00:22:14,485
the time is up, or one day the principle still remains

291
00:22:14,865 --> 00:22:18,625
the same, it is vacant. I charge each of

292
00:22:19,025 --> 00:22:23,015
you to address this issue

293
00:22:24,585 --> 00:22:27,905
and explaining to us why

294
00:22:29,985 --> 00:22:33,585
you had the opportunity to share with us how now

295
00:22:34,465 --> 00:22:38,165
you must share with us why. Thank you. Thank you.

296
00:22:48,035 --> 00:22:49,285
next is jen zerbe.

297
00:23:02,835 --> 00:23:05,685
good evening mayor, board of alderman. I'm jennifer sbe.

298
00:23:08,385 --> 00:23:11,745
uh, so imagine you're a local restaurant, enjoying dinner. Um,

299
00:23:13,065 --> 00:23:16,845
let me back up. So I'm requesting, um, a little

300
00:23:17,085 --> 00:23:20,985
bit of an amendment to the noise ordinance, as some of you already know. So,

301
00:23:21,465 --> 00:23:25,185
so imagine you're at a local restaurant enjoying dinner. Suddenly a door slam someone

302
00:23:25,605 --> 00:23:29,305
laughs a little too loudly, nothing out of the ordinary, but under our current

303
00:23:29,895 --> 00:23:33,785
current noise ordinance, that brief sound could result in

304
00:23:33,985 --> 00:23:37,445
a violation unfairly penalizing the business. So

305
00:23:38,315 --> 00:23:42,295
today I'm here to show you why this ordinance needs an an update to ensure fair enforcement

306
00:23:43,885 --> 00:23:47,285
in an effort to establish an effective noise ordinance. The city of new bern

307
00:23:47,965 --> 00:23:51,865
invested $10,000 to consult noise specialist. However, despite expert

308
00:23:52,285 --> 00:23:56,125
recommendations, the adopted ordinance relies on peak noise readings rather than

309
00:23:56,805 --> 00:23:59,645
averaging a method widely recognized as more balanced.

310
00:24:00,845 --> 00:24:04,205
additionally, noise measurements aren't always taken at appropriate distances,

311
00:24:04,955 --> 00:24:08,285
skewing results, which was recommended by the specialist

312
00:24:08,985 --> 00:24:12,645
as well. So we proposed practical modifications

313
00:24:13,515 --> 00:24:17,485
that maintain order while ensuring enforcement is accurate and fair for both businesses

314
00:24:17,725 --> 00:24:20,685
and residents. Something I wanted to illustrate

315
00:24:21,865 --> 00:24:25,405
was to show you a live sound meter reading. Um, the read 80 80

316
00:24:26,415 --> 00:24:30,325
shows a way to do this. The current, um, decibel readers that

317
00:24:30,525 --> 00:24:34,275
both the new bern police department as well as um, us have

318
00:24:35,505 --> 00:24:39,025
aren't able to do it. Whereas they show you a low,

319
00:24:39,525 --> 00:24:41,735
a high and the average reading the sound,

320
00:24:43,665 --> 00:24:47,565
the display that I would've had, would've showed and it was so cool, um, to where

321
00:24:47,765 --> 00:24:51,445
you could see the average. So if you clapped your hands, all of a sudden it went up to 80,

322
00:24:52,315 --> 00:24:56,245
that would've been a violation. Um, so you would've seen how any little noise where

323
00:24:56,565 --> 00:24:59,565
if you coughed or you clapped or the door slammed,

324
00:25:00,825 --> 00:25:04,695
um, somebody shut a dumpster door, it would automatically spike

325
00:25:05,045 --> 00:25:08,705
that reading and that caused us to garner

326
00:25:09,195 --> 00:25:12,465
over $1,500 worth of time regardless. Um,

327
00:25:13,635 --> 00:25:17,365
even though the overall sound remains steady and granted, I know that

328
00:25:17,645 --> 00:25:21,525
we've had this conversation. I'm not asking for a lot,

329
00:25:21,825 --> 00:25:25,725
I'm just asking for a con different face.

330
00:25:26,185 --> 00:25:30,105
let me get back on track. Sorry. . Additionally, consider, um,

331
00:25:30,355 --> 00:25:34,325
measurement location. In one case, a reading was taken directly outside

332
00:25:34,685 --> 00:25:38,445
of business window instead of 25 feet away. As advised,

333
00:25:39,275 --> 00:25:42,685
this led to an inaccurate assessment and an unnecessary type citation.

334
00:25:43,575 --> 00:25:47,245
these flaws highlight why simple improvement such as average readings

335
00:25:47,825 --> 00:25:51,725
and properly defining measurement locations are necessary. So our

336
00:25:52,365 --> 00:25:56,165
proposal is straightforward and backed by recommendations. So we, we suggest

337
00:25:56,615 --> 00:26:00,485
three key changes. First using three average readings

338
00:26:01,045 --> 00:26:04,685
instead of peak measurements. The read r 80 80, as I stated earlier,

339
00:26:05,625 --> 00:26:09,445
cal calculates these averages in ensuring accurate enforcement without

340
00:26:09,885 --> 00:26:13,805
requiring multiple officers on site. Second, defining the measurement

341
00:26:14,485 --> 00:26:18,365
location as half the distance between the complainant's residence and the source of

342
00:26:18,525 --> 00:26:22,425
sound, or at least a hundred feet away. A practical compromise to

343
00:26:22,645 --> 00:26:26,645
ensure readings reflect real impact. And third, clarifying the appeal

344
00:26:26,885 --> 00:26:30,805
process which currently requires individuals to submit their case to the chief of police.

345
00:26:31,595 --> 00:26:35,245
this makes this process more transparent, thus ensuring

346
00:26:35,805 --> 00:26:39,785
fairness for all those facing citations. Updating this ordinance aligns

347
00:26:40,205 --> 00:26:44,005
enforcement with expert recommendation. It ensures fairness and consistent measurement

348
00:26:44,805 --> 00:26:48,765
practices and provides businesses and residents with an equitable way to

349
00:26:48,925 --> 00:26:52,905
contest citations. The goal is not to weaken the noise regulations, but

350
00:26:53,125 --> 00:26:57,105
to improve them so that enforcement is reasonable clear and just so

351
00:26:57,325 --> 00:27:00,845
we're just asking the board to amend the ordinance to reflect expert recommendations,

352
00:27:01,795 --> 00:27:04,545
establish fair enforcement guidelines and

353
00:27:06,015 --> 00:27:09,975
thank you. Thank you. Next is steve.

354
00:27:24,395 --> 00:27:28,325
good evening board. Uh, my name is steve skiffington. I'm a resident,

355
00:27:28,825 --> 00:27:32,645
uh, newborn in ward ward three. And I'd like to speak to you about

356
00:27:33,005 --> 00:27:36,925
a citywide town town hall. It's my understanding, and please

357
00:27:37,205 --> 00:27:40,885
correct me if I'm wrong, that several months ago al been

358
00:27:41,295 --> 00:27:45,205
aster and the mayor had agreed to hold a citywide town hall meeting.

359
00:27:46,265 --> 00:27:49,105
can someone tell us when that has been scheduled for?

360
00:27:57,185 --> 00:28:01,115
am I to assume it has not been scheduled? They

361
00:28:01,675 --> 00:28:05,395
respond. You can only speak to them. I'm sorry. They

362
00:28:05,685 --> 00:28:09,605
don't respond more. Right. Okay. Well it was just on the record

363
00:28:09,995 --> 00:28:13,065
that that's what they said. So the question is,

364
00:28:14,265 --> 00:28:18,035
we are asking not just me for a citywide town

365
00:28:18,515 --> 00:28:22,285
hall meeting. Elections are coming up and people need to hear.

366
00:28:22,995 --> 00:28:26,975
it's that simple. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you, thank

367
00:28:27,325 --> 00:28:30,985
you. Next is

368
00:28:31,365 --> 00:28:32,045
al woman isha harris.

369
00:28:38,515 --> 00:28:42,405
good evening. Members of the board mayor. Um, I'm just coming here because

370
00:28:43,105 --> 00:28:46,605
you know, it's juneteenth week. Um, and I'm representing the committee

371
00:28:47,165 --> 00:28:50,905
'cause they're actually on their way back from raleigh from picking up the,

372
00:28:51,265 --> 00:28:55,245
um, john canoe commanders, the dignitaries. Um, but

373
00:28:55,445 --> 00:28:59,085
we just wanted to let you guys know that the 11th, 12th, and 13th starts

374
00:28:59,545 --> 00:29:03,155
the three day john canoe workshop. It is free. And cra terrace

375
00:29:03,645 --> 00:29:07,505
from 10 to two. Please bring the children out. Adults, everybody. I'm making an

376
00:29:07,725 --> 00:29:11,485
outfit. Um, friday 13th. Yes, it's a scary

377
00:29:11,785 --> 00:29:15,435
day, but go to, um, craven arts council at 5:00 pm

378
00:29:16,195 --> 00:29:20,025
it's art walk. It's beautiful, beautiful art. Then the 14th is

379
00:29:20,245 --> 00:29:24,125
the parade and festival parade starts at 11 on the dot. If you

380
00:29:24,285 --> 00:29:28,185
are in the parade, you better be lined up. 'cause ms. Sharon, let's go. That's

381
00:29:28,605 --> 00:29:32,555
how she is. Festival is at 12 o'clock. We have an amazing

382
00:29:33,275 --> 00:29:37,205
performance, a lot to do. So please show up and support your community.

383
00:29:37,745 --> 00:29:41,685
it is for everybody. Um, and then go home, freshen up

384
00:29:42,305 --> 00:29:45,995
and come back with the fireworks at 9:00 pm and then

385
00:29:46,835 --> 00:29:50,445
community day is on the 17th, the first a hundred children

386
00:29:50,945 --> 00:29:54,915
at the roller land. 4:00 pm get in there for free. Well,

387
00:29:55,205 --> 00:29:59,025
we only have max a hundred people, food and everything. Um, and

388
00:29:59,405 --> 00:30:02,765
then a lecture series through the cultural center.

389
00:30:03,585 --> 00:30:07,445
um, charlotte rome. And then, um, stanley white. Please support,

390
00:30:08,105 --> 00:30:11,965
um, our southpaw baseball. I love them. They're awesome. That is

391
00:30:12,125 --> 00:30:15,965
on the 20th at 6:00 pm sankofa play is on the 20th

392
00:30:16,265 --> 00:30:20,245
at seven 30. And the bonfire july, I

393
00:30:20,365 --> 00:30:24,325
mean june 21st. That's at the beasley compound. 8:00 pm that is a

394
00:30:24,445 --> 00:30:28,365
ticketed event. $10 online or at the event. And then

395
00:30:28,895 --> 00:30:32,625
maafa, um, barbecue is on the 22nd. It is, um, at

396
00:30:32,905 --> 00:30:36,565
6:00 pm down at the gazebo. It is open to everybody. Thank you.

397
00:30:36,975 --> 00:30:37,725
thank you. Thank you.

398
00:30:42,475 --> 00:30:46,165
okay, board next up is the consent agenda there. Wants the pleasure of the board on items five through 11.

399
00:30:49,575 --> 00:30:52,785
mayor, I make a motion to approve the consent a agenda. Second.

400
00:30:53,685 --> 00:30:57,515
I have a motion and a second. Is there further discussion? Hearing

401
00:30:58,005 --> 00:31:01,765
none. Let's have a roll call sergeant with alderman frill. Alderman frill.

402
00:31:02,225 --> 00:31:06,035
yes. Alderman royal. Yes. Alderman naer.

403
00:31:06,385 --> 00:31:10,015
yes. Alderman kenzie. Yes. Alderman desk. Yes. Mayor

404
00:31:10,515 --> 00:31:14,365
odom. Yes. Motion carries. Next up is item number 12, presentation by

405
00:31:14,565 --> 00:31:18,435
the new bern underground railroad coalition. Mr. Hughes. Good

406
00:31:18,725 --> 00:31:22,485
evening, mayor and alderman. At this time I'd like to ask ms. Roseanne wilson, president of the african

407
00:31:23,085 --> 00:31:25,405
american heritage and cultural center to come up and make her presentation.

408
00:31:27,415 --> 00:31:31,325
thank you. They told me there would be a

409
00:31:31,645 --> 00:31:35,305
clicker here. So good evening. Um,

410
00:31:35,895 --> 00:31:39,005
mayor odom, members of the board of waderman,

411
00:31:40,225 --> 00:31:43,725
uh, my name is roseanne wilson and I am the president of the african

412
00:31:44,445 --> 00:31:48,265
american heritage and culture center here in newberg. And

413
00:31:48,485 --> 00:31:52,005
we are just 1 5 0 1 3 c

414
00:31:52,545 --> 00:31:56,005
uh, nonprofit supporting the underground railroad,

415
00:31:57,105 --> 00:32:01,025
um, of new bern coalition. Others

416
00:32:01,945 --> 00:32:05,905
who are part of, uh, the coalition, either through membership or

417
00:32:06,125 --> 00:32:09,715
support, are the historic dry association,

418
00:32:10,785 --> 00:32:13,475
the climbers club of of new bern.

419
00:32:14,825 --> 00:32:18,715
the, uh, historic, excuse me, uh, new bern historic society,

420
00:32:19,735 --> 00:32:23,725
james city historic society. And I'm sure I've left

421
00:32:23,845 --> 00:32:27,615
out somebody, oh, the king solomon lodge and tryon

422
00:32:27,965 --> 00:32:31,865
palace. Um, you have in your packets copies of

423
00:32:32,195 --> 00:32:36,195
some support letters from some of these organizations and also

424
00:32:36,595 --> 00:32:40,085
from, um, new bern citizens as well.

425
00:32:42,865 --> 00:32:45,325
so why are we here? What is our goal?

426
00:32:47,705 --> 00:32:51,025
our goal is to, um,

427
00:32:52,555 --> 00:32:55,715
require or not require, acquire recognition

428
00:32:56,825 --> 00:33:00,465
of new bern waterfront at, uh,

429
00:33:00,945 --> 00:33:04,045
as a national park service underground railroad

430
00:33:05,355 --> 00:33:08,685
network to freedom site. That's a mouthful.

431
00:33:10,105 --> 00:33:13,965
um, but that's what we, why we are here because we have been

432
00:33:14,125 --> 00:33:18,125
working on an application to hopefully get that

433
00:33:18,395 --> 00:33:22,185
designation. We are here to gain, um,

434
00:33:22,755 --> 00:33:26,285
your support. Um, as, as city leaders,

435
00:33:27,545 --> 00:33:31,345
we are not here asking for money. We are not

436
00:33:31,565 --> 00:33:35,505
here asking for any kind of signage to go up, um,

437
00:33:36,145 --> 00:33:38,765
in the, at the waterfront. The application

438
00:33:40,505 --> 00:33:44,485
merely puts us literally on the map. You also

439
00:33:44,765 --> 00:33:48,755
have a copy of that map in your folders, the map that

440
00:33:49,045 --> 00:33:52,745
shows all the different areas in the united states and

441
00:33:53,085 --> 00:33:56,475
several in north carolina, um, who have

442
00:33:57,275 --> 00:34:01,225
this designation of being a network to

443
00:34:01,445 --> 00:34:01,995
freedom site.

444
00:34:06,985 --> 00:34:10,685
so a little bit about how this was established. Um, there was

445
00:34:11,005 --> 00:34:13,965
a, a congressional act that was passed in 1998.

446
00:34:16,065 --> 00:34:19,205
and through this, um, act, the national park service

447
00:34:20,275 --> 00:34:24,055
created programs to recognize, promote, honor,

448
00:34:24,625 --> 00:34:28,265
and preserve the history of resistance to

449
00:34:28,965 --> 00:34:32,605
enslavement through escape and flight. I'm gonna say that again.

450
00:34:35,605 --> 00:34:38,665
resistance to enslavement through escape and flight,

451
00:34:40,255 --> 00:34:43,555
which is important. Even frederick douglas knew

452
00:34:44,635 --> 00:34:48,145
when he wrote his narrative that he was trying to

453
00:34:49,635 --> 00:34:52,295
dismantle this myth of the happy slave.

454
00:34:53,985 --> 00:34:57,845
and so what the national park system was trying to do

455
00:34:58,105 --> 00:35:01,275
was recognize the, um, underground

456
00:35:02,365 --> 00:35:05,275
railroad so that people understood that,

457
00:35:06,825 --> 00:35:10,525
you know, folks that were enslaved want did want to be

458
00:35:11,485 --> 00:35:15,365
enslaved. The network

459
00:35:16,045 --> 00:35:19,835
advances also the idea that all human beings embrace

460
00:35:20,425 --> 00:35:23,925
the right to self-determination and freedom

461
00:35:24,955 --> 00:35:25,415
from oppression.

462
00:35:31,105 --> 00:35:35,005
the underground railroad, uh, new bern coalition, what have we been

463
00:35:35,165 --> 00:35:39,025
doing? Well, I've already mentioned that it includes, um, members of

464
00:35:39,245 --> 00:35:42,515
the community as well as members of several 5 0 1 3

465
00:35:43,805 --> 00:35:46,915
c organizations that are focused on newburn history.

466
00:35:48,745 --> 00:35:52,605
um, we've consulted with lisa jones, who is a name that you

467
00:35:52,805 --> 00:35:56,705
all might know if you've ever been out to the washington, um,

468
00:35:57,095 --> 00:36:00,825
waterfront underground railroad. She applied for,

469
00:36:01,665 --> 00:36:04,465
um, this designation back in 2015,

470
00:36:05,845 --> 00:36:09,745
I believe it was. And, um, so where she is in

471
00:36:09,965 --> 00:36:13,835
washington has been designated and is on that map that

472
00:36:14,285 --> 00:36:18,265
again, you have in your folder. Um, and,

473
00:36:18,705 --> 00:36:22,635
and no, she did not get money for her little caboose that

474
00:36:22,945 --> 00:36:26,785
she has the museum in, if you've ever been there. After she

475
00:36:27,025 --> 00:36:29,875
got the designation, she used that knowledge

476
00:36:31,225 --> 00:36:34,955
to raise money to actually open the museum that

477
00:36:35,245 --> 00:36:38,725
she has there. We, um, have also been guided

478
00:36:39,345 --> 00:36:42,035
by the national park service,

479
00:36:43,505 --> 00:36:47,385
um, regional manager who they assign different people to

480
00:36:48,375 --> 00:36:51,465
guide those who are applying, um,

481
00:36:53,025 --> 00:36:56,885
to the, uh, organization and giving, giving them

482
00:36:57,405 --> 00:37:01,405
guidance. So we actually had a zoom meeting a couple months ago with some

483
00:37:01,685 --> 00:37:05,665
folks, and to be very honest, we weren't sure if they were still around or

484
00:37:05,885 --> 00:37:09,845
not. Um, so a couple of weeks ago though, we reached

485
00:37:10,185 --> 00:37:13,965
out, and this is, excuse me, this

486
00:37:14,265 --> 00:37:18,125
is still happening. There is still someone there that, that we

487
00:37:18,325 --> 00:37:21,605
have spoken to, and he's looking forward to our application.

488
00:37:23,025 --> 00:37:27,005
um, in fact, we will be hopefully sending

489
00:37:27,685 --> 00:37:31,585
a draft to him in another week or two, um, before the

490
00:37:32,045 --> 00:37:35,585
deadline so they can read it and give us guidelines. So

491
00:37:36,275 --> 00:37:40,005
this is still happening through the, um, national park service.

492
00:37:41,065 --> 00:37:44,585
we also, uh, planned and, and had two

493
00:37:45,255 --> 00:37:49,005
commu community meetings in april. 'cause we wanted

494
00:37:49,285 --> 00:37:52,845
to foster a greater community collaboration and engagement.

495
00:37:54,225 --> 00:37:58,115
and that, um, worked. Um, thus so many letters

496
00:37:58,675 --> 00:38:00,925
that you have, and I think there's a couple more that you don't have.

497
00:38:03,705 --> 00:38:07,435
so now why is this important for new bern? Well,

498
00:38:08,245 --> 00:38:11,685
a couple of things. Um, it certainly contribute, would contribute

499
00:38:12,385 --> 00:38:16,275
to the preservation and dissemination of the rich

500
00:38:16,635 --> 00:38:20,475
history that we have here in new bern. Sometimes some

501
00:38:20,765 --> 00:38:24,725
of that history is untold, um, in the african

502
00:38:25,525 --> 00:38:29,105
american community. And we all, um,

503
00:38:29,825 --> 00:38:32,885
in the coalition, and certainly in my organization, believe that

504
00:38:34,125 --> 00:38:37,605
american history is, is everybody's history. It's not just african

505
00:38:38,405 --> 00:38:42,365
american history, but we need to keep that in our minds. Keep looking

506
00:38:42,565 --> 00:38:45,585
at that clock thinking, it's telling me when to stop mm-hmm . Um,

507
00:38:47,065 --> 00:38:50,425
and also of course it would promote the development and, um,

508
00:38:51,225 --> 00:38:55,005
growth of our tourism that, um, is something that's

509
00:38:55,325 --> 00:38:58,725
very important to the city and will be recognized

510
00:38:59,935 --> 00:39:03,485
nationally. Again, that map is a national

511
00:39:04,225 --> 00:39:07,685
map of, uh, underground railroad network to freedom.

512
00:39:10,385 --> 00:39:13,745
so, looking ahead, well, our plan is to, um,

513
00:39:15,145 --> 00:39:19,105
submit the application by july 15th. Um,

514
00:39:20,745 --> 00:39:23,085
our hope is that the application will be accepted

515
00:39:24,825 --> 00:39:27,765
and that new bern will then be added to the national underground

516
00:39:28,845 --> 00:39:32,165
railroad network to freedom website and their resources.

517
00:39:34,105 --> 00:39:37,925
and, um, after that, then we will continue as a coalition

518
00:39:39,065 --> 00:39:42,605
to, um, create and develop educational resources,

519
00:39:43,615 --> 00:39:47,545
share stories, educate the public, and further our

520
00:39:48,525 --> 00:39:52,125
re research. So again, I thank you

521
00:39:52,785 --> 00:39:56,235
for your attention. We certainly look forward to your support

522
00:39:57,665 --> 00:40:01,365
and wonder if you have any questions. Four, have questions.

523
00:40:05,995 --> 00:40:09,415
what specifically are you asking of this board,

524
00:40:10,025 --> 00:40:12,595
if anything, with regards to this project?

525
00:40:14,305 --> 00:40:18,245
um, just support, um, I guess

526
00:40:18,485 --> 00:40:22,485
a, I don't know, a letter of support, um, would be good that we could

527
00:40:22,605 --> 00:40:26,305
add to our application or just knowing that, uh,

528
00:40:27,115 --> 00:40:29,525
this is something that you think will be good for the city.

529
00:40:31,515 --> 00:40:35,245
there's a, there's a couple options. Um, a letter, uh, could

530
00:40:35,525 --> 00:40:39,405
be done relatively easy and quickly. Uh, the board could

531
00:40:39,685 --> 00:40:43,605
sign the letter if you wanted a resolution, which has a little more

532
00:40:44,255 --> 00:40:48,085
teeth to it, if you will. Mm-hmm . Uh, we could have one prepared if the board decided

533
00:40:48,525 --> 00:40:52,485
to do that, and it could be on our next agenda, then the board could vote on it and then you could

534
00:40:52,605 --> 00:40:56,565
use that as a resolution. So there's two options. Um, if you want to think about

535
00:40:56,765 --> 00:41:00,725
it with the committee and decide, you can get back to us. Um, either way, I

536
00:41:00,845 --> 00:41:04,835
think we can work with that timeline of getting you that information by july

537
00:41:05,125 --> 00:41:09,085
the eighth, which is our next board meeting. Okay. That'd be great. Thank you so much.

538
00:41:10,505 --> 00:41:14,165
any other questions? Any other questions? Your honor, thank you

539
00:41:14,675 --> 00:41:17,645
very much. Have a good evening. You too. Thank you.

540
00:41:25,175 --> 00:41:28,905
okay, next up is item number 13. Conduct a public hearing and consider adopting an ordinance

541
00:41:29,225 --> 00:41:33,125
amending sections 15 15 1 29, basic definitions and

542
00:41:33,325 --> 00:41:36,405
interpretations. And 1578 minor subdivision

543
00:41:37,365 --> 00:41:41,325
approval of appendix a of land use ordinance for a change in minor subdivision.

544
00:41:42,225 --> 00:41:46,205
ms. Ruth. Hi, good evening. Thank you. Evening. Uh, this

545
00:41:46,365 --> 00:41:50,285
evening we have a series of three text amendments to present to the board. The first

546
00:41:50,545 --> 00:41:54,545
one here, uh, is the two dissects that you just referenced and

547
00:41:54,765 --> 00:41:58,365
simply stated, this is a request coming from the public to modify

548
00:41:58,865 --> 00:42:02,415
the lot size and land acreage that qualifies as a minor

549
00:42:02,915 --> 00:42:06,785
subdivision. So I wanna talk just for a moment and

550
00:42:07,035 --> 00:42:10,965
give some context to what we mean when we talk about what a minor

551
00:42:11,315 --> 00:42:15,285
subdivision is. The state and general statute says that we have

552
00:42:15,525 --> 00:42:19,145
to afford people the ability and our ordinance to simply

553
00:42:19,995 --> 00:42:23,985
subdivide a piece of land. What they do not do is tell us how

554
00:42:24,205 --> 00:42:28,205
much land that can be and into what size pieces or how many we get to

555
00:42:28,365 --> 00:42:31,605
decide that as a community and what's appropriate for us.

556
00:42:32,705 --> 00:42:36,505
so typically a minor subdivision, um, is between three and

557
00:42:36,725 --> 00:42:40,465
10 lots for a community our size and up to 10

558
00:42:40,735 --> 00:42:44,645
acres of land. Anything within that window would be considered typical of a

559
00:42:44,815 --> 00:42:48,805
minor subdivision. And to qualify to be a

560
00:42:48,925 --> 00:42:52,885
minor subdivision, the resulting lot created from the parent

561
00:42:53,295 --> 00:42:57,165
tract need to be of some, some criteria. So we can't

562
00:42:57,625 --> 00:43:01,425
create a new street that cannot happen in a minor subdivision. It

563
00:43:01,645 --> 00:43:05,575
can't require easements and it shouldn't require utility extensions.

564
00:43:06,505 --> 00:43:10,205
so we're keeping this very simple. They are considered to be very simple,

565
00:43:10,625 --> 00:43:14,405
either typically approved by a staff member, whereas in a major

566
00:43:14,645 --> 00:43:18,485
subdivision, we would go through our whole process, through our

567
00:43:18,685 --> 00:43:22,685
development review committee or our drc, where we bring in all of

568
00:43:22,805 --> 00:43:26,555
our departments to look at all of those things that would be impacted like

569
00:43:26,915 --> 00:43:30,575
utilities, like how a firetruck gets down the road, like how it gets water,

570
00:43:31,105 --> 00:43:35,085
things like that. So when we talk about a minor subdivision, I want you just

571
00:43:35,245 --> 00:43:39,245
to think of a rectangle and dividing it up into squares

572
00:43:39,745 --> 00:43:43,005
and how many squares that would be because none of those other things

573
00:43:43,815 --> 00:43:47,645
would be impacted. Typically this process is available because

574
00:43:48,445 --> 00:43:52,445
somebody has a tractor land. Oftentimes it is used, uh, to create

575
00:43:52,725 --> 00:43:56,645
conformities when there's multiple structures on one large lot. It's also

576
00:43:56,885 --> 00:44:00,755
very often used when somebody wants to, uh, give

577
00:44:01,155 --> 00:44:04,205
land to their children and they divide it into pieces like that.

578
00:44:06,675 --> 00:44:10,485
it's a very simple explanation of what's being proposed tonight. Uh, currently

579
00:44:11,105 --> 00:44:14,765
we allow a five acre tre to qualify as a minor subdivision

580
00:44:15,385 --> 00:44:19,385
to be divided into four lots. So that falls into that typical window

581
00:44:20,035 --> 00:44:23,805
that I just explained to you. And the proposed change that you're

582
00:44:24,045 --> 00:44:27,835
being asked to consider is to change that threshold to allow a six acre

583
00:44:28,125 --> 00:44:31,995
track to qualify as a minor subdivision. So adding an acre onto that

584
00:44:32,745 --> 00:44:35,835
and to be subdivided, subdivided up into six lots.

585
00:44:38,875 --> 00:44:42,785
this is not the entire text amendment. I'm not going to show you all

586
00:44:43,025 --> 00:44:46,845
of the changes in all the text amendments that are being proposed tonight. In the spirit of

587
00:44:47,045 --> 00:44:50,925
full transparency, that is all in your packet. I've included

588
00:44:51,085 --> 00:44:54,915
these slides to just show you that big change of going from

589
00:44:55,435 --> 00:44:58,675
five to six and from four to six here.

590
00:45:01,825 --> 00:45:05,765
so a text amendment, and we haven't done too many of these, but we do have quite a few

591
00:45:05,885 --> 00:45:09,825
coming through. The pipeline right now is processed the same way as

592
00:45:10,085 --> 00:45:13,825
a zoning map amendment, which we typically call a rezoning. So

593
00:45:14,465 --> 00:45:18,165
the way that that can be initiated is that staff can propose

594
00:45:18,725 --> 00:45:22,685
a change to the ordinance. You as the elected body can propose a change to the

595
00:45:22,805 --> 00:45:26,705
ordinance or the planning and zoning board can propose the

596
00:45:26,925 --> 00:45:30,675
change to the ordinance. In most ordinances, there's

597
00:45:31,325 --> 00:45:35,245
a process written out, just like is written in ours for how a citizen and tech

598
00:45:35,615 --> 00:45:39,425
would request a map amendment or a rezoning. This exists

599
00:45:40,385 --> 00:45:43,965
for a text amendment. While state law allows a citizen

600
00:45:44,425 --> 00:45:48,205
to ask for a change through our text, our ordinance doesn't

601
00:45:48,715 --> 00:45:52,605
expressly call out that process. So after discovering

602
00:45:52,965 --> 00:45:56,765
that, we made sure that this process is going in our new ordinance and when

603
00:45:57,005 --> 00:46:00,855
we get requests like this, they have been, um, sponsored by staff

604
00:46:01,435 --> 00:46:05,085
such as this one is. And alderman royal asked a good question,

605
00:46:05,505 --> 00:46:09,385
uh, last meeting on what is the citizen requested text amendment that's

606
00:46:09,805 --> 00:46:13,205
supported by staff. That's why I took the time to explain this to you.

607
00:46:14,185 --> 00:46:17,845
and so because that process is the same, I have up on here a recommendation

608
00:46:18,485 --> 00:46:22,445
from the planning and zoning board, just like you see with a rezoning request

609
00:46:23,345 --> 00:46:27,145
and also a statement of consistency that what is required for

610
00:46:27,365 --> 00:46:29,365
the text change just like it is for a map change.

611
00:46:31,785 --> 00:46:35,745
and so the staff evaluation of this is that we do support this change. We

612
00:46:35,965 --> 00:46:39,925
feel it's very minor. It retains all current standards, um, that we

613
00:46:40,045 --> 00:46:43,775
currently have. So we're not changing anything other

614
00:46:44,125 --> 00:46:47,605
than the size and the number of lots that can be created.

615
00:46:48,585 --> 00:46:52,575
and we do feel like this does offer some opportunity for smaller scale

616
00:46:52,925 --> 00:46:56,845
developments to occur without that intense review process of going through

617
00:46:57,745 --> 00:47:01,685
the drc or the development review committee and having to go through

618
00:47:01,985 --> 00:47:05,485
and have all of those departments look and evaluate

619
00:47:06,165 --> 00:47:09,965
a project such as this when it's really unnecessary because

620
00:47:10,945 --> 00:47:14,915
the criteria do not allow impacts to water, sewer, utilities,

621
00:47:15,525 --> 00:47:19,525
or streets. Would that I stand before you

622
00:47:20,135 --> 00:47:24,125
ready to answer any questions you may have. And I believe our applicant is also in

623
00:47:24,325 --> 00:47:27,925
the room prepared to answer questions for you as well. Does the board have questions?

624
00:47:29,065 --> 00:47:32,325
yes, I do. You've cited several scenarios

625
00:47:34,315 --> 00:47:37,355
potentially for citizens to want this,

626
00:47:38,665 --> 00:47:42,565
uh, amendment. Any of those fit the citizen

627
00:47:42,915 --> 00:47:46,645
that initiated this request, I'm gonna let the applicant

628
00:47:47,005 --> 00:47:50,815
answer that for you. I feel it's that that's an appropriate question for him. Thank

629
00:47:51,165 --> 00:47:55,125
you, mr. Attorney. Do we need to have

630
00:47:55,245 --> 00:47:59,125
the applicant do that now or under the public hearing? Um, the public

631
00:47:59,325 --> 00:48:03,005
hearing would be great. Okay. So arm roy, when we open the public hearing,

632
00:48:03,865 --> 00:48:07,845
the applicant can then come forward and answer. Thank you. Board. Have

633
00:48:08,045 --> 00:48:08,725
any more questions for staff?

634
00:48:12,115 --> 00:48:15,965
okay. At this time I will open a public hearing on item number 13. If you would like

635
00:48:16,125 --> 00:48:17,445
to come forward, please do so at this time.

636
00:48:29,675 --> 00:48:33,665
good evening board. I'm wendy card with newburn now.com. And I'm

637
00:48:33,885 --> 00:48:37,525
here just to clarify a few things and I appreciate your time.

638
00:48:38,665 --> 00:48:40,725
um, in march,

639
00:48:43,525 --> 00:48:46,495
I can't remember the date, but in march the planning and zoning board,

640
00:48:47,825 --> 00:48:50,595
uh, it was said that

641
00:48:52,625 --> 00:48:56,425
the amendment was requested by the new

642
00:48:56,645 --> 00:49:00,615
bern preservation foundation and that the president of that foundation

643
00:49:01,905 --> 00:49:05,845
was in the audience to answer any questions.

644
00:49:06,915 --> 00:49:10,735
they didn't. An attorney spoke on their behalf that

645
00:49:11,025 --> 00:49:14,865
president was also a member of the historic preservation

646
00:49:15,585 --> 00:49:19,335
commission, which is a quasi-judicial public body.

647
00:49:20,525 --> 00:49:24,485
and I'm just, I'll get to my question in a little bit so

648
00:49:24,705 --> 00:49:28,415
that that's what happened. And one of the planning and zoning board members

649
00:49:29,725 --> 00:49:33,625
had took issue with the amendment not necessarily 'cause of the request,

650
00:49:33,985 --> 00:49:37,825
which I'm not real clear about because I didn't have all the information

651
00:49:39,415 --> 00:49:42,435
that was given to the board right prior.

652
00:49:43,445 --> 00:49:47,325
so what was said in the public was the change was

653
00:49:47,595 --> 00:49:50,825
being requested. So structures

654
00:49:52,235 --> 00:49:56,205
would, could be conforming with the

655
00:49:56,485 --> 00:50:00,375
law if the amendment was, was passed, they

656
00:50:00,665 --> 00:50:04,305
needed that amendment. So it could be a conforming

657
00:50:04,985 --> 00:50:08,885
structure. Um, so

658
00:50:09,185 --> 00:50:13,145
I guess my question number one is what is your,

659
00:50:14,365 --> 00:50:18,305
what's the policy for the conflict of interest for, uh, historic preservation

660
00:50:19,505 --> 00:50:23,145
quasi-judicial commissioner to also be the president of the preservation

661
00:50:24,075 --> 00:50:27,965
foundation? I kind of

662
00:50:28,085 --> 00:50:31,565
see some, you know, if this comes before that preservation

663
00:50:32,205 --> 00:50:36,185
commission, I just don't see how that is not

664
00:50:36,485 --> 00:50:40,485
a conflict of interest and I'd like clarification. And who will

665
00:50:40,725 --> 00:50:44,145
benefit from this change? Is it the public at large or just one

666
00:50:45,985 --> 00:50:49,165
per one citizen to make their

667
00:50:50,365 --> 00:50:54,045
structure conforming? And is that normally how we do

668
00:50:54,845 --> 00:50:58,705
business is just to change the law to suit one person's or one

669
00:50:58,925 --> 00:51:01,765
group's need. Uh, thank you very much. Thank you.

670
00:51:09,905 --> 00:51:13,845
can we pause here with attorney davis to respond? Sure. If you'd like to ask him a question.

671
00:51:14,225 --> 00:51:18,205
yes, ma'am. Um, lot, lots to unpack there. Um, first of all,

672
00:51:18,325 --> 00:51:21,325
this has nothing to do with the historic preservation commission

673
00:51:22,425 --> 00:51:25,375
at all. Um, the preservation foundation

674
00:51:26,475 --> 00:51:30,395
owns some properties that you're going to hear about where this rule

675
00:51:31,735 --> 00:51:35,575
would, if adopted, would apply to them and allow

676
00:51:35,925 --> 00:51:39,665
them to subdivide their property into six

677
00:51:40,035 --> 00:51:43,905
lots and avoid the expense of having to go through the

678
00:51:44,125 --> 00:51:47,875
major subdivision process. If they had four

679
00:51:48,175 --> 00:51:51,235
homes, they wouldn't be here because

680
00:51:52,225 --> 00:51:56,075
the current rule allows four separate lots

681
00:51:56,365 --> 00:51:59,115
to be divided as a matter of right through the minor subdivision process.

682
00:52:00,875 --> 00:52:03,705
they have a unique situation, um, where they have six.

683
00:52:04,985 --> 00:52:08,615
so that, that's the genesis of all of this. And I, and I wanna repeat again

684
00:52:09,395 --> 00:52:13,245
this subtle but important notion. Every citizen

685
00:52:13,905 --> 00:52:17,765
has a right to reach out to staff to reach out to the

686
00:52:18,125 --> 00:52:21,845
planning and zoning board and to reach out to you to propose their

687
00:52:22,335 --> 00:52:26,165
ideas. They have a right to do that. They do not have

688
00:52:26,445 --> 00:52:30,035
a right to cause a text amendment to be initiated,

689
00:52:31,615 --> 00:52:34,775
right? Just because someone asks doesn't mean that staff

690
00:52:35,865 --> 00:52:39,845
or p and z or you agree. So this

691
00:52:40,125 --> 00:52:43,965
is a situation where the preservation foundation approached

692
00:52:44,375 --> 00:52:48,325
staff with their dilemma staff reviewed it, as jess mentioned,

693
00:52:49,275 --> 00:52:53,045
concluded that the proposal made a lot of sense for the very simple

694
00:52:53,285 --> 00:52:56,905
reasons that jess explained. The current rule allows

695
00:52:58,835 --> 00:53:02,645
four lots to be divided as a matter of right out of a five

696
00:53:02,915 --> 00:53:06,825
acre track. If it's on a public street and there is

697
00:53:07,045 --> 00:53:11,025
no new sewer or water service required, and the

698
00:53:11,565 --> 00:53:15,525
proposed rule would change the five acres to six acres and the

699
00:53:15,725 --> 00:53:19,685
four lots to six, this has nothing to do with creating

700
00:53:20,205 --> 00:53:23,915
a conformity. Right? This doesn't, this doesn't magically

701
00:53:24,865 --> 00:53:27,915
fix someone's existing problem.

702
00:53:29,745 --> 00:53:33,685
all it does is it creates an off ramp for a

703
00:53:33,815 --> 00:53:37,325
minor subdivision to decrease the cost for developers

704
00:53:38,345 --> 00:53:41,745
who want to divide a six acre parcel, um,

705
00:53:42,465 --> 00:53:46,265
uh, into six lots. Does that make sense? Bottom

706
00:53:46,755 --> 00:53:49,405
line, there is no conflict of interest. No, ma'am.

707
00:53:52,095 --> 00:53:55,725
thank you. Good evening, sir. Go ahead.

708
00:53:56,265 --> 00:54:00,145
uh, good evening, mayor and alderman. My name is eric remington. I'm with the law firm of

709
00:54:00,365 --> 00:54:04,065
warden smith, and y'all have met me before. I'm here representing the

710
00:54:04,385 --> 00:54:07,905
new bern preservation foundation. And, uh, as mr. Davis

711
00:54:08,675 --> 00:54:12,425
said, uh, it was us that went to the staff and,

712
00:54:12,905 --> 00:54:16,685
and brought this issue to their attention. Uh, because in this

713
00:54:17,155 --> 00:54:21,155
ordinance, specifically within section 15 dash

714
00:54:21,445 --> 00:54:25,355
78 e, the board of alderman had already created

715
00:54:25,985 --> 00:54:29,715
an exception to the minor subdivision rule, which allowed

716
00:54:30,755 --> 00:54:34,665
parcels that had more than two homes on them to

717
00:54:34,885 --> 00:54:38,205
be subdivided, but it only allowed for the four.

718
00:54:39,225 --> 00:54:43,065
and there's a very important parcel in town that has

719
00:54:43,605 --> 00:54:47,125
buildings on it over off of pasture street that is owned by the preservation

720
00:54:47,695 --> 00:54:51,545
foundation. And that parcel has on it what we

721
00:54:51,775 --> 00:54:55,685
refer to as the six sisters. And they are six, uh, road buildings

722
00:54:55,965 --> 00:54:59,905
there that are, that have been, they're on one lot right now and

723
00:55:00,125 --> 00:55:03,165
they're essentially rented out, uh, as low income housing.

724
00:55:04,225 --> 00:55:08,115
um, this exception, uh, that basically,

725
00:55:09,185 --> 00:55:13,055
you know, uh, was created. The problem was that it did not allow

726
00:55:13,425 --> 00:55:17,065
for a subdivision of the, that particular lot

727
00:55:17,585 --> 00:55:21,405
to allow those six houses to remain in place and not

728
00:55:21,605 --> 00:55:24,965
have to be able to not have to tear down, uh, some of those houses.

729
00:55:26,025 --> 00:55:29,885
so what we did was we went to the, um, the staff and we talked

730
00:55:30,245 --> 00:55:34,105
about that, and we talked about other ways of trying to, to, uh,

731
00:55:34,915 --> 00:55:38,885
reached a goal that the preservation foundation was, and that is to

732
00:55:39,085 --> 00:55:42,075
have each of these houses be an individual ownership.

733
00:55:43,425 --> 00:55:46,885
and, um, these, again, these houses have historic significance.

734
00:55:48,265 --> 00:55:52,145
um, they are, we believe that this is

735
00:55:52,375 --> 00:55:56,325
consistent with the long range plans of new bern city, of new bern.

736
00:55:57,145 --> 00:56:01,065
if, uh, you look at, uh, the consistency with those plans, the

737
00:56:01,385 --> 00:56:05,245
city's urban design plan actually reflects this

738
00:56:05,885 --> 00:56:09,445
property in the plan and talks about it. It is

739
00:56:10,085 --> 00:56:13,925
a prominent feature in the city's urban design plan. The river

740
00:56:14,125 --> 00:56:17,385
station neighborhood plan includes three images

741
00:56:18,465 --> 00:56:22,375
of this property in it because that's how significant this, these

742
00:56:22,745 --> 00:56:26,395
six sisters are to this, uh, area, uh, the river station area.

743
00:56:27,515 --> 00:56:31,225
what the historic preservation this amendment would allow is for the

744
00:56:31,765 --> 00:56:34,915
historic preservation, uh, foundation to then subdivide

745
00:56:36,075 --> 00:56:40,045
this, these six, uh, homes. Instead of them being on one

746
00:56:40,265 --> 00:56:44,145
lot and being essentially rental properties, they would be able to be in, in

747
00:56:44,365 --> 00:56:48,365
individual ownership. And that would one, allow them to be

748
00:56:48,585 --> 00:56:52,565
better treated and, and take care of rehabilitated. And it two

749
00:56:52,725 --> 00:56:56,625
would increase the tax base for the of the city. Um, so we're asking the

750
00:56:56,845 --> 00:57:00,085
board of alderman to approve this, uh, amendment, this tax amendment.

751
00:57:01,105 --> 00:57:05,035
it, it's not going to create issues because as mr. Davis says,

752
00:57:05,825 --> 00:57:09,805
uh, if there is some parcel out there that it's gotta meet all

753
00:57:10,005 --> 00:57:13,645
the requirements, it's gotta have all houses that were built on it before 1953.

754
00:57:14,745 --> 00:57:18,725
and I can tell you I have looked and I have not found another, uh, parcel

755
00:57:19,745 --> 00:57:23,455
in town that this would uh, affect. So it, there

756
00:57:23,805 --> 00:57:27,685
is, this is really, um, if somebody

757
00:57:27,905 --> 00:57:31,845
has a lot out there that is six acres and they want to subdivide it,

758
00:57:32,005 --> 00:57:35,825
they're gonna have to conform with all of the requirements. But

759
00:57:36,045 --> 00:57:39,645
this would allow these six particular sub, you know, the subdivision

760
00:57:40,125 --> 00:57:43,045
of this parcel into six lot. So we ask you to approve it

761
00:57:45,225 --> 00:57:48,565
and I'm happy to answer any kind of questions that you have before, have any questions.

762
00:57:51,565 --> 00:57:54,435
assuming that, um, this

763
00:57:56,275 --> 00:58:00,085
amendment gets approved, and I don't know whether you can

764
00:58:00,285 --> 00:58:03,965
answer this or whether it's a question more of a, a member

765
00:58:04,345 --> 00:58:06,985
of the preservation foundation, um,

766
00:58:10,275 --> 00:58:13,255
will the preservation foundation

767
00:58:14,465 --> 00:58:18,165
be putting covenants and restrictions on each of these

768
00:58:18,895 --> 00:58:22,655
homes, um, prior to their going

769
00:58:23,065 --> 00:58:26,895
out or up for sale that a future owner

770
00:58:28,755 --> 00:58:32,145
must comply with? That's, that's a good question. Uh,

771
00:58:33,005 --> 00:58:36,605
alderman, um, I have with me, uh, president of, of the foundation,

772
00:58:37,345 --> 00:58:41,325
uh, richard parson. And, um, I'll let him answer that question.

773
00:58:41,905 --> 00:58:44,805
uh, but my understanding is yes, that's what the case will be.

774
00:58:48,255 --> 00:58:52,105
thank you mr. Mayor. Board of alderman. Uh, yes,

775
00:58:52,665 --> 00:58:56,565
mr. Peel, it is our intention to covenant all six of these

776
00:58:57,365 --> 00:59:01,025
individually to be owner occupied and to

777
00:59:01,685 --> 00:59:05,645
prohibit any major change to the exterior so that they will remain in their

778
00:59:06,055 --> 00:59:09,905
basic historic fabric. But the, the goal is

779
00:59:10,145 --> 00:59:14,085
to have individually owned owner occupied structures.

780
00:59:14,715 --> 00:59:18,175
that that's what our covenant is intended to say is owner

781
00:59:18,885 --> 00:59:22,045
occupied. And will the, the preservation

782
00:59:22,895 --> 00:59:26,165
foundation, are you going to be making any improvements

783
00:59:27,265 --> 00:59:31,165
to the structures prior to them being put on the market

784
00:59:31,465 --> 00:59:35,185
for sale or will, um, that be up to the,

785
00:59:36,025 --> 00:59:39,885
the new owners to, um, cover the cost

786
00:59:40,145 --> 00:59:43,945
of any improvements? We have already have covenants on

787
00:59:44,165 --> 00:59:48,045
70 properties downtown. Uh, many of those have passed

788
00:59:48,245 --> 00:59:51,985
through our hands. And our, uh, usual way of acting is to

789
00:59:53,075 --> 00:59:55,685
sell it as is with a preservation agreement

790
00:59:57,155 --> 01:00:00,625
that it runs parallel with the covenant that the people agreed to,

791
01:00:01,505 --> 01:00:05,245
uh, fix 'em up to a certain minimum standard. And then they're

792
01:00:05,525 --> 01:00:07,565
allowed to go beyond that as much as they want to.

793
01:00:11,625 --> 01:00:15,585
the, and, and as a previous conversation that you and

794
01:00:15,845 --> 01:00:17,745
I have had, um,

795
01:00:19,905 --> 01:00:23,125
as is part of, or the part of the covenants and restrictions,

796
01:00:24,065 --> 01:00:27,985
uh, is that going to require the, the future property owners to

797
01:00:28,205 --> 01:00:32,065
only use the rear property for parking? Not, not

798
01:00:32,505 --> 01:00:36,285
out front. That is our intention. Yes, sir. That will

799
01:00:36,525 --> 01:00:40,325
be part of the, to eliminate the confidence and restrictions, eliminate resident parking

800
01:00:41,105 --> 01:00:43,375
on pastor street? Yes, sir. Okay.

801
01:00:46,375 --> 01:00:49,865
nothing further, mayor, thank you. Any more questions from the board?

802
01:00:55,795 --> 01:00:58,865
thank you. Is there anyone else from the public that would like to speak on this topic?

803
01:01:09,175 --> 01:01:12,585
good evening. Just a general question for the attorney. In those, uh, behind the amendment,

804
01:01:14,115 --> 01:01:18,105
would this only affect those, uh, partials as mentioned or would it affect any other

805
01:01:18,305 --> 01:01:18,865
parties in the city?

806
01:01:23,655 --> 01:01:27,625
this rule applies citywide to any property, six acres or less,

807
01:01:28,165 --> 01:01:32,145
to be divided into five watts. What's getting us confused is that

808
01:01:32,405 --> 01:01:36,225
in this particular specific case, there happens to be houses

809
01:01:36,675 --> 01:01:40,545
built already and that makes it confusing. So this would affect

810
01:01:41,205 --> 01:01:44,505
all housing. It it affect anyone who has any acreage,

811
01:01:45,765 --> 01:01:49,685
six acres or less. This? Yes. Who checks the

812
01:01:49,905 --> 01:01:53,825
boxes? You have a, you're on the street. Yes. No extensions of sewer or

813
01:01:54,025 --> 01:01:57,425
water. This rule would apply to you if you currently have that acreage

814
01:01:58,055 --> 01:02:01,945
instead of four lots. You could do six and fast track it through

815
01:02:02,225 --> 01:02:05,115
the minor process. Gotcha. Thank you. Thank

816
01:02:06,445 --> 01:02:06,865
anyone else?

817
01:02:13,805 --> 01:02:16,945
see none. Board I'd entertain a motion to close the public hearing if that's what you desire.

818
01:02:17,955 --> 01:02:21,805
honor. Second. I have a motion to second to close the public hearing. Is there further

819
01:02:21,965 --> 01:02:25,705
discussion on that? Hearing none. All those in favor say aye. Aye.

820
01:02:26,145 --> 01:02:29,965
aye. Any opposed? Public hearing is now closed. What is the

821
01:02:30,325 --> 01:02:31,845
pleasure of the board? On item number 13,

822
01:02:40,775 --> 01:02:44,105
mayor, I'll make a motion, um, to

823
01:02:45,215 --> 01:02:48,435
adopt an ordinance amending sections 15 dash 15 1 29,

824
01:02:50,935 --> 01:02:54,435
basic definitions and interpretations and 15 dash 78

825
01:02:56,015 --> 01:02:59,605
minor subdivision approval of appendix a of the land use ordinance

826
01:03:00,625 --> 01:03:04,485
for a change in minor subdivision. Second. I have

827
01:03:04,645 --> 01:03:05,965
a motion and a second. Is there further discussion?

828
01:03:09,115 --> 01:03:13,085
hearing none. Let's have a roll call starting with alderman royal. Alderman

829
01:03:13,405 --> 01:03:17,225
royal? Yes. Alderman aser. Yes. Alderman kenzie.

830
01:03:17,865 --> 01:03:21,065
yes. Alderman best? Yes. Alderman frill. Yes.

831
01:03:22,095 --> 01:03:26,045
mayor odom? Yes. Motion carries. Item number 14, conduct

832
01:03:26,525 --> 01:03:30,315
a public hearing and consider adopting an ordinance amending sections 15 1 36 residential

833
01:03:31,285 --> 01:03:34,755
districts established 1546 table of permissible uses

834
01:03:35,385 --> 01:03:39,325
and 15 1 63 particular uses of appendix a

835
01:03:39,505 --> 01:03:42,645
of the land use ordinance for flexibility in mobile food vendors.

836
01:03:43,625 --> 01:03:47,405
ms. Ruth. Alright, thank you so much. And the sections you just described

837
01:03:47,905 --> 01:03:51,845
are all connected to how we regulate food trucks. If we were

838
01:03:51,965 --> 01:03:55,485
to say that very simply. So what we are asking for tonight

839
01:03:55,985 --> 01:03:59,385
is a, uh, a change proposed to you that would allow mobile

840
01:04:00,275 --> 01:04:04,065
food vendors also known more regularly as food trucks in

841
01:04:04,305 --> 01:04:08,085
all of our zoning districts, rather than just our commercial zoning districts.

842
01:04:10,175 --> 01:04:13,845
staff is in support of the proposed text amendment for the following

843
01:04:14,205 --> 01:04:18,135
reasons. Um, it's retaining all of our regulations that apply

844
01:04:18,485 --> 01:04:22,445
already to food trucks as temporary uses. It promotes a little more

845
01:04:22,645 --> 01:04:26,305
flexibility on where we can use and allow food trucks. And

846
01:04:26,795 --> 01:04:30,565
this is very consistent with planning trends throughout the country.

847
01:04:31,135 --> 01:04:33,755
broadening accessibility for mobile food vending.

848
01:04:36,105 --> 01:04:40,005
um, as in the last text amendment, I am required to tell you the planning and zoning

849
01:04:40,255 --> 01:04:44,125
board has reviewed this. They did unanimously recommend

850
01:04:44,325 --> 01:04:48,165
making this change and found it to be consistent with all of our

851
01:04:48,485 --> 01:04:51,635
planning documents. Oops.

852
01:04:52,625 --> 01:04:56,165
and with that I can answer any questions for you. Board have questions?

853
01:05:00,115 --> 01:05:04,025
jessica, was this uh, amendment requested by

854
01:05:04,585 --> 01:05:08,465
any entity in particular or is this just no, sir. This was a, an

855
01:05:08,685 --> 01:05:12,605
administrative text amendment. We have a lot of public spaces that are

856
01:05:13,085 --> 01:05:17,045
actually, uh, zoned residential and this makes

857
01:05:17,385 --> 01:05:21,085
it, uh, them available for food trucks to go for special events.

858
01:05:24,915 --> 01:05:27,875
jessica, I just have one question. I know. Um, currently,

859
01:05:29,805 --> 01:05:33,805
regardless of the zoning or where it's located, we don't allow food trucks on public property unless

860
01:05:34,195 --> 01:05:38,035
it's a special event. That will not change. That will not change. So this means that

861
01:05:38,525 --> 01:05:42,385
a residential neighborhood, if this were to pass, you can't set up a food truck on

862
01:05:42,645 --> 01:05:46,345
a public street? That is correct. Okay. It has to be on private property. Okay. Yes.

863
01:05:46,735 --> 01:05:49,285
thank you. Any other questions?

864
01:05:53,715 --> 01:05:57,645
hearing none. I will open the public hearing on item number 14. If anyone would like

865
01:05:57,805 --> 01:05:59,565
to come forward and speak, please do so at this time,

866
01:06:08,755 --> 01:06:12,645
hearing, make motion, public hearing. Second, have a motion and a second

867
01:06:12,805 --> 01:06:15,045
to close the public hearing. Is there any discussion?

868
01:06:17,235 --> 01:06:20,285
hearing none. All those in favor say aye. Aye. Aye. Any opposed?

869
01:06:21,915 --> 01:06:25,485
okay. Public hearing is now closed. What is the pleasure of the board? On item number 14,

870
01:06:28,975 --> 01:06:32,485
mayor, I make a motion to consider adopting an ordinance amending sections

871
01:06:33,035 --> 01:06:36,555
15 dash 1 36 residential districts established

872
01:06:37,955 --> 01:06:41,945
15 dash 46 table of permissible uses and

873
01:06:42,165 --> 01:06:46,085
15 dash 1 63 particular uses of appendix

874
01:06:46,645 --> 01:06:50,525
sale of the land use ordinance for flexibility in mobile food vendors.

875
01:06:52,025 --> 01:06:55,685
second. I have a motion and a second. Is there any further discussion?

876
01:06:58,955 --> 01:07:02,815
hearing none. Let's have a roll call starting with alderman astor. Alderman astor.

877
01:07:03,225 --> 01:07:07,035
yes. Alderman kenzie. Yes. Alderman best.

878
01:07:09,485 --> 01:07:13,055
alderman prill. Yes. Alderman royal. Yes. Mayor

879
01:07:13,635 --> 01:07:17,405
odom? Yes. Motion carries. Next up is item

880
01:07:17,645 --> 01:07:21,325
number 15. Conduct a public hearing and consider adopting an ordinance amending

881
01:07:21,845 --> 01:07:25,225
section 15 1 63 particular uses of article 11

882
01:07:26,005 --> 01:07:29,725
supplemental use regulations of appendix a of the land use ordinance

883
01:07:30,185 --> 01:07:34,075
to remove registration and separation requirements for short term rentals.

884
01:07:34,745 --> 01:07:38,515
ms. Ru, thank you so much. This is an amendment that

885
01:07:38,805 --> 01:07:42,425
is being requested for consistency with state law.

886
01:07:44,455 --> 01:07:48,405
lemme get recalibrated here. This is an amendment to our section called

887
01:07:48,765 --> 01:07:52,325
particular uses and this is the section of the ordinance that houses

888
01:07:52,825 --> 01:07:56,645
our regulation on short term rentals. And a few years ago,

889
01:07:56,925 --> 01:08:00,205
I believe it was in 2022, there was a case that came out of the city of wilmington

890
01:08:01,195 --> 01:08:05,085
that made some determinations on what was and was not constitutional

891
01:08:05,525 --> 01:08:09,475
when it came to regulating short term rentals. So what this

892
01:08:09,765 --> 01:08:13,325
amendment that is for your consideration this evening would do

893
01:08:13,975 --> 01:08:17,905
would remove our language and our short term rental law

894
01:08:18,795 --> 01:08:22,645
that, uh, requires registration for short term rentals because that

895
01:08:22,905 --> 01:08:26,365
has been found to be unconstitutional. And also remove the separation

896
01:08:26,965 --> 01:08:30,825
requirements. We currently require that they're 250 feet apart and

897
01:08:31,045 --> 01:08:34,905
that is no longer considered constitutional based on this case law.

898
01:08:35,745 --> 01:08:39,725
no other changes to our short term rental requirements would occur.

899
01:08:40,425 --> 01:08:44,285
it is simply streamlining our ordinance to be consistent with what

900
01:08:44,565 --> 01:08:46,365
the courts have said is and is not allowable.

901
01:08:48,615 --> 01:08:52,545
staff is recommending approval of this, um, due for that case law

902
01:08:52,915 --> 01:08:56,725
consistency. And the planning and zoning board is recommending this unanimously

903
01:08:57,465 --> 01:09:01,405
as well based on consistency, not only with our adopted plans, but with that

904
01:09:01,645 --> 01:09:05,585
case board. Have questions for staff? Yes.

905
01:09:05,945 --> 01:09:09,135
for the benefit of our public. What are some examples of short-term

906
01:09:10,395 --> 01:09:14,235
rentals? It's typically, uh, homes that are rented as airbnbs

907
01:09:14,745 --> 01:09:18,185
or bbos. However, in land use

908
01:09:18,805 --> 01:09:22,075
language that we use fancy, we call 'em str or short term rentals.

909
01:09:23,415 --> 01:09:27,365
thank you. Any other questions

910
01:09:27,525 --> 01:09:31,355
further? Okay.

911
01:09:32,225 --> 01:09:36,205
at this time we will open a public hearing on item number 15. If you would like to speak

912
01:09:36,445 --> 01:09:38,405
regarding this item, please come forward at this time.

913
01:09:46,965 --> 01:09:50,255
mayor, make a motion to close the public hearing. Second,

914
01:09:51,395 --> 01:09:53,795
I have a motion and a second to close the public hearing. Is there further discussion?

915
01:09:55,825 --> 01:09:59,815
hearing none. All those in favor say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Public

916
01:10:00,235 --> 01:10:02,915
hearing is now closed. What is the pleasure of the board? On item number 15,

917
01:10:04,835 --> 01:10:08,635
I would like to make a motion to adopt an ordinance amending

918
01:10:09,195 --> 01:10:12,445
section 15 1 6 3 particular

919
01:10:13,505 --> 01:10:17,225
uses of article 11 supplemental use regulations

920
01:10:18,215 --> 01:10:21,915
of appendix a of the land use ordinance to remove

921
01:10:22,235 --> 01:10:26,125
registration and separation requirements of short

922
01:10:26,555 --> 01:10:30,155
term rentals. Second, I have a motion

923
01:10:30,655 --> 01:10:34,555
and a second. Is there further discussion? I

924
01:10:34,675 --> 01:10:38,555
just had one comment or question. Uh, mr. Attorney, I know you've said oftentimes

925
01:10:39,505 --> 01:10:43,295
that we don't necessarily want to be the one to set

926
01:10:43,535 --> 01:10:47,205
the rules in the standard. Is this a situation where maybe

927
01:10:47,655 --> 01:10:51,535
we were a little proactive ahead of the game and case law

928
01:10:51,785 --> 01:10:55,595
came back and said what we did was basically incorrect? We were a great question, mary.

929
01:10:55,795 --> 01:10:59,675
thank you. Um, our, um, our ordinance was consistent with

930
01:10:59,915 --> 01:11:03,755
others statewide. Um, typically wilmington and asheville

931
01:11:04,335 --> 01:11:08,235
are the ones that, uh, lead the charge in defending because there's no clear

932
01:11:08,555 --> 01:11:12,355
rules as to what you can or can't do. Um, in this case,

933
01:11:12,615 --> 01:11:16,045
the court came back and of the six or eight elements of our ordinance,

934
01:11:16,785 --> 01:11:20,535
two of those, um, were struck. Since that decision, we've

935
01:11:20,885 --> 01:11:24,825
obviously not enforced those two provisions and this just tidies up

936
01:11:25,465 --> 01:11:29,085
so that we're all consistent. Maybe you may remember many years ago, same thing happened with group home

937
01:11:29,755 --> 01:11:33,635
legislation. Um, you know, when you don't have the robust case

938
01:11:33,985 --> 01:11:37,725
law, you do your best until the court tells you otherwise. Okay. Thank you.

939
01:11:38,585 --> 01:11:42,525
is there any further discussion? Hearing none

940
01:11:42,765 --> 01:11:46,745
unless have a roll call, sir, with alderman kenzie. Alderman kenzie? Yes.

941
01:11:47,645 --> 01:11:51,485
alderman best? Yes. Alderman reel? Yes. Alderman royal?

942
01:11:52,105 --> 01:11:56,025
yes. Alderman aser? Yes. Mayor odom? Yes.

943
01:11:56,245 --> 01:12:00,005
motion carries. Next is item number 16. Consider a resolution

944
01:12:00,685 --> 01:12:04,405
authorizing the municipal service district advisory committee to proceed with projects. Mr. Hughes

945
01:12:05,455 --> 01:12:09,445
mayor on may 20th. The msd advisory committee met to discuss a variety

946
01:12:09,825 --> 01:12:13,645
of projects and they came up with several recommendations to the governing board.

947
01:12:14,375 --> 01:12:17,645
those projects include, uh, purchasing two downtown digital

948
01:12:18,385 --> 01:12:21,935
kiosks that cost of $62,000, allocating

949
01:12:22,605 --> 01:12:26,485
funds to the broad street parking for the river walk pier in the amount of $300,000

950
01:12:28,695 --> 01:12:32,625
brick crosswalk project for eight, for eight locations downtown, namely

951
01:12:33,065 --> 01:12:36,745
on p*****k street south front street, and then the half blocks of craven

952
01:12:37,905 --> 01:12:40,725
and middle street at the amount of $750,000.

953
01:12:42,665 --> 01:12:46,625
and, uh, stall center armrest on downtown benches. And

954
01:12:46,845 --> 01:12:50,725
this is a phase. So the first phase is $15,000 purchase,

955
01:12:50,915 --> 01:12:54,805
16 four foot benches to go, uh, on certain areas of

956
01:12:55,165 --> 01:12:59,085
downtown that don't have benches. Amount of $20,000 and purchase eight

957
01:12:59,365 --> 01:13:03,065
additional trash cans in the amount of $8,000. All of these would match the

958
01:13:03,525 --> 01:13:07,405
existing trash cans and benches in the downtown if approved these funds

959
01:13:07,745 --> 01:13:11,605
for these projects would come from the municipal service district fund. Happy to answer

960
01:13:11,845 --> 01:13:13,965
any questions you may have or have questions.

961
01:13:17,175 --> 01:13:21,065
mayor. I would just point out that I had reached out to, um, foster

962
01:13:21,825 --> 01:13:25,715
and brenda earlier today. Um, the, the way that

963
01:13:26,025 --> 01:13:30,025
the resolution had been worded, um, was

964
01:13:30,315 --> 01:13:34,005
that they were being authorized to proceed with these

965
01:13:34,405 --> 01:13:38,365
projects. But given the fact that the msd advisory committee

966
01:13:39,345 --> 01:13:42,825
is only advisory in nature, um,

967
01:13:43,435 --> 01:13:46,765
they recommend projects for the board's consideration

968
01:13:47,665 --> 01:13:51,205
and if approved, then the city is the implementing

969
01:13:52,225 --> 01:13:56,225
agency for these approved projects. So, um,

970
01:13:56,685 --> 01:14:00,265
I ask that that resolution, um, be

971
01:14:00,845 --> 01:14:04,595
reworded, which it was, um, just to make it clear that

972
01:14:06,505 --> 01:14:10,355
the any approved project, um, will

973
01:14:10,645 --> 01:14:14,205
be the city's responsibility to initiate n execute,

974
01:14:14,865 --> 01:14:17,235
not the advisory committee. Okay.

975
01:14:18,945 --> 01:14:19,485
any other comments?

976
01:14:23,275 --> 01:14:24,645
it's pleasure of the board on item number 16.

977
01:14:27,325 --> 01:14:31,165
now I'll make a motion to approve a resolution authorizing the

978
01:14:31,455 --> 01:14:34,225
municipal service district. Well actually

979
01:14:35,525 --> 01:14:39,225
not the advisory committee, I guess make a motion to approve

980
01:14:39,645 --> 01:14:43,625
the recommended projects. From the municipal service district advisory

981
01:14:43,705 --> 01:14:47,155
committee. Thank. Okay, I have a motion to second. Is there further discussion?

982
01:14:49,735 --> 01:14:53,345
hearing none. Let's have a roll call starting with

983
01:14:53,785 --> 01:14:57,595
alderman best? Alderman best, yes. Alderman prill.

984
01:14:58,205 --> 01:15:02,185
yes. Alderman royal? Yes. Alderman asher? Yes. Alderman

985
01:15:02,525 --> 01:15:06,105
kenzie? Yes. Mayor odom. Yes. And just to be clear, that is

986
01:15:06,545 --> 01:15:10,265
to approve the updated resolution that was circulated to the board before the meeting.

987
01:15:10,565 --> 01:15:14,385
is that? Yes sir. Very good, thank you. Okay, next

988
01:15:14,625 --> 01:15:17,925
up is item number 17. Consider adopting orders authorizing 2025

989
01:15:19,105 --> 01:15:20,925
general obligation bonds, ms. Ostrom.

990
01:15:24,615 --> 01:15:28,505
okay, so over the past year we have been working towards seeking

991
01:15:28,835 --> 01:15:32,345
voter approval for three bond separate general obligation bonds.

992
01:15:33,245 --> 01:15:36,905
one was the $10 million for the sidewalk street and sidewalk improvements,

993
01:15:37,555 --> 01:15:41,225
8 million for parks and recreation, and 6 million for storm water improvements.

994
01:15:42,525 --> 01:15:45,945
at the last meeting, you authorized the submission of an application

995
01:15:46,545 --> 01:15:50,425
to the local government commission for these proposed bonds. Part of that

996
01:15:50,585 --> 01:15:54,545
process requires a notice of intent to file an application to be published

997
01:15:54,905 --> 01:15:58,345
in the local paper. That notice was published in the sun journal on may 17th.

998
01:15:59,925 --> 01:16:02,985
the next steps of this process require that the board approve

999
01:16:04,245 --> 01:16:07,785
the introduction of the three bond orders and the adoption of the first reading

1000
01:16:09,335 --> 01:16:13,015
call for a public hearing to be held on july 8th. Designate

1001
01:16:13,625 --> 01:16:17,185
and authorize the filing of two required statements and authorize

1002
01:16:17,665 --> 01:16:20,945
the city clerk to file copies of the statements with the local government

1003
01:16:22,075 --> 01:16:25,905
commission and publish the bond orders and related notice of public hearing.

1004
01:16:27,485 --> 01:16:31,345
so you have a lot in your packet tonight and we're gonna take a moment to go through that.

1005
01:16:32,685 --> 01:16:34,505
the first, you should have the three bond orders.

1006
01:16:37,005 --> 01:16:40,975
um, the purpose description and amount on each bond is located

1007
01:16:41,605 --> 01:16:45,305
in section one of each bond order. The remainder of that

1008
01:16:45,745 --> 01:16:49,585
document contains the same general language for each bond order and it pledges to

1009
01:16:49,785 --> 01:16:52,265
the tax levy tax revenues to pay for the debt.

1010
01:16:53,805 --> 01:16:57,665
it states that the sworn statement of debt has been filed with the city clerk and is

1011
01:16:57,945 --> 01:17:01,825
available for public inspection. And the statement of disclosures will

1012
01:17:02,065 --> 01:17:05,585
be filed with the local government commission and posted to the city's website.

1013
01:17:06,925 --> 01:17:10,400
it also calls for the public hearing to be held at the next board meeting on july 8th.

1014
01:17:11,905 --> 01:17:15,205
and that bond order will take effect when approved by voters in october.

1015
01:17:18,115 --> 01:17:21,925
then you have the next two pages. In the public notice is the public notice

1016
01:17:22,355 --> 01:17:26,085
that we will be published in the sun journal. It includes three,

1017
01:17:26,425 --> 01:17:30,405
the three bond orders that we just reviewed. And in the last paragraph of section

1018
01:17:30,715 --> 01:17:34,505
four, it also provides the total of all three proposed bonds in

1019
01:17:34,725 --> 01:17:38,085
the amount of 24 million. The estimated interest

1020
01:17:39,145 --> 01:17:40,925
of all three bonds in the amount of 13,466,888

1021
01:17:44,335 --> 01:17:48,245
$880. That calculation consists of

1022
01:17:48,365 --> 01:17:52,245
the safe harbor rate of 5.344%, which is determined by

1023
01:17:52,405 --> 01:17:55,685
the local government commission for calculating estimated interest.

1024
01:17:56,715 --> 01:18:00,245
it's the highest rate charge for similar tax exempt debt for over the last 20 years.

1025
01:18:01,745 --> 01:18:05,145
it also provides the estimated property tax rate increase of 2.75 cents

1026
01:18:07,425 --> 01:18:11,405
per $100 of assessed valuation to pay for the debt of all three bond

1027
01:18:11,685 --> 01:18:15,365
orders if they were all passed. The next three pages

1028
01:18:15,825 --> 01:18:19,705
you will see the statement of disclosures. The

1029
01:18:19,925 --> 01:18:23,565
purpose of the statement is to provide transparency to voters about the potential

1030
01:18:24,075 --> 01:18:26,765
cost and financial implications of the geo bond referendum.

1031
01:18:28,465 --> 01:18:31,635
it is informing the public of what we are considering adopting in july

1032
01:18:32,665 --> 01:18:35,445
and requests their opinion that the next board meeting prior to adopting

1033
01:18:36,905 --> 01:18:39,805
it is filed with the local government commission and posted on the city's website.

1034
01:18:40,915 --> 01:18:44,725
this document breaks out each bond order and its respective

1035
01:18:45,035 --> 01:18:48,665
estimated interest and estimated property tax rate increase if

1036
01:18:49,085 --> 01:18:52,645
approved by the voters and is issued. The information provided includes

1037
01:18:53,185 --> 01:18:56,405
the streets and sidewalk bond for 10 million with estimated interest of $5,611,200

1038
01:19:00,145 --> 01:19:04,065
and an estimated tax rate increase of 1.51 cents per hundred dollars of

1039
01:19:04,445 --> 01:19:08,095
assessed valuation. The parks and rec bond in the amount of 8 million

1040
01:19:08,565 --> 01:19:10,095
with an estimated interest of $4,488,960

1041
01:19:13,355 --> 01:19:17,235
in the estimated tax rate increase of 75 cents. And

1042
01:19:17,455 --> 01:19:20,895
the storm water bond in the amount of 6 million with an estimated interest of $3,366,720

1043
01:19:24,555 --> 01:19:28,335
and an estimated tax rate increase of 49 cents per a hundred dollars of assessed value.

1044
01:19:29,875 --> 01:19:33,855
if all three bond orders were to be approved, the total estimated tax rate

1045
01:19:34,375 --> 01:19:37,655
increases $2 and 75 cents per a hundred dollars of assessed value.

1046
01:19:40,645 --> 01:19:44,565
the sworn statement of debt follows with the next two pages. This document is

1047
01:19:45,025 --> 01:19:48,975
required to be filed with the local government commission and reports to the city's current reports

1048
01:19:49,525 --> 01:19:52,705
on the city's current debt and author, any authorized bonds they have not been issued.

1049
01:19:55,525 --> 01:19:59,145
I'm officially submitting to the city clerk assigned copy of those of the sworn statement

1050
01:19:59,765 --> 01:20:03,745
of debt and the statement of disclosures. Lastly, the

1051
01:20:03,945 --> 01:20:07,565
following three pages consist of the bond referendum with with each ballot

1052
01:20:08,205 --> 01:20:10,525
question. As you can see, each one is voted on individually.

1053
01:20:12,275 --> 01:20:16,145
looking forward, we are planning on holding four meetings during the months of august and

1054
01:20:16,525 --> 01:20:20,245
september to educate our citizens and taxpayers provide information and answer

1055
01:20:20,685 --> 01:20:23,205
questions on, on these bonds. And, and tonight

1056
01:20:24,865 --> 01:20:28,835
our bond attorney john, my and with bol bond and dixon and ted cole

1057
01:20:29,225 --> 01:20:33,125
and the city's the city's financial consultant, davenport, are here to answer any questions

1058
01:20:33,245 --> 01:20:37,045
that you may have about what's presented to you tonight regarding the geo bonds.

1059
01:20:38,785 --> 01:20:39,405
the have questions.

1060
01:20:46,825 --> 01:20:50,775
kim? I have, I have a few. Uh, first off, can you tell us how much the total

1061
01:20:51,685 --> 01:20:55,205
interest would be on all three of the bonds if approved?

1062
01:20:57,305 --> 01:21:00,325
if it's based off of the safe harbor rate? Mm-hmm .

1063
01:21:01,655 --> 01:21:02,415
I have it right here.

1064
01:21:06,555 --> 01:21:07,135
it was $13,466,880.

1065
01:21:11,565 --> 01:21:15,375
okay. And 24 million is the total

1066
01:21:15,755 --> 01:21:19,155
for all three bonds referendums? Yes. Okay. Um,

1067
01:21:20,715 --> 01:21:24,665
I'm assuming that the language, uh, since we have consultants that have helped craft

1068
01:21:25,015 --> 01:21:28,955
these, um, say things like up to

1069
01:21:29,285 --> 01:21:33,135
this amount not to exceed, to make sure that we're protected in a

1070
01:21:33,575 --> 01:21:37,135
situation where a project starts and it costs more, we can't spend

1071
01:21:37,595 --> 01:21:40,565
but as much money as what was authorized. Correct? Correct. Okay.

1072
01:21:41,635 --> 01:21:44,795
and then the last one was taxi taxes are

1073
01:21:45,675 --> 01:21:49,515
levied. At what time of the process is

1074
01:21:49,735 --> 01:21:53,655
it when the projects start and the money is pulled? Um, I

1075
01:21:53,775 --> 01:21:57,415
know, I know it's not when the bond is approved, it's when the projects

1076
01:21:57,895 --> 01:22:01,755
start, but I'm just asking the timeframe. So for example, if

1077
01:22:01,975 --> 01:22:05,485
these just say all three of 'em were approved on october,

1078
01:22:06,835 --> 01:22:10,685
um, I'm sure some of these projects are somewhat shovel ready, some

1079
01:22:10,975 --> 01:22:14,605
will take some design and planning. I just wanna give the public the idea

1080
01:22:15,075 --> 01:22:18,635
of when they could potentially see a tax

1081
01:22:19,175 --> 01:22:23,095
increase for these projects. I don't think it would be all at once was my point.

1082
01:22:26,885 --> 01:22:30,195
okay. Good evening. Um, ted cole with davenport, the, uh,

1083
01:22:31,035 --> 01:22:34,735
the analysis that we've run for the potential tax increases,

1084
01:22:35,115 --> 01:22:39,015
assume that the, um, the new revenue through a

1085
01:22:39,135 --> 01:22:42,635
tax adjustment would be done as part of the fy 27 budget.

1086
01:22:43,835 --> 01:22:47,735
mm-hmm . Um, ultimately it could be done later, but it

1087
01:22:47,895 --> 01:22:50,815
may be at a higher total impact. This was

1088
01:22:51,915 --> 01:22:55,735
one of two approaches we analyzed and I think had shared with you all at some

1089
01:22:55,935 --> 01:22:59,895
point fy 27, the first budget following the vote.

1090
01:23:04,155 --> 01:23:07,755
and kim, thank you for that. And kim, uh, to clarify, you said

1091
01:23:08,705 --> 01:23:11,365
$2 in change for every a hundred dollars in valuation.

1092
01:23:12,745 --> 01:23:16,465
um, could you maybe give just a quick example of

1093
01:23:17,595 --> 01:23:20,685
what a average tax bill, if you were to have $300,000

1094
01:23:21,745 --> 01:23:25,445
in property value, what that would equate to? So

1095
01:23:25,805 --> 01:23:28,465
yes, I can. So we had, lemme just wanna get the right dollar amount.

1096
01:23:32,895 --> 01:23:36,675
it was $2 and 75 cents per a hundred dollars of assessed value. That's $27

1097
01:23:37,675 --> 01:23:40,115
and 50 cents for every a hundred thousand dollars of assessed value.

1098
01:23:41,985 --> 01:23:43,635
okay. Thank you.

1099
01:23:46,945 --> 01:23:50,875
does board have any other questions? Kim, can you break that out? So just

1100
01:23:51,035 --> 01:23:54,835
say for the instance, somebody owns a home that's $300,000 mm-hmm .

1101
01:24:07,545 --> 01:24:11,275
82 50 for 300,000. Okay.

1102
01:24:21,105 --> 01:24:24,965
or have any other questions? I do. Um, I might be

1103
01:24:25,125 --> 01:24:28,255
piggybacking off of what you had already asked, mayor.

1104
01:24:29,505 --> 01:24:33,345
um, but listening to the beginning of

1105
01:24:33,585 --> 01:24:37,385
the taxation, you said fiscal year 2027 mm-hmm

1106
01:24:37,845 --> 01:24:41,675
. And I, we know we said previously that

1107
01:24:42,785 --> 01:24:46,765
all the money would not be borrowed at the same time.

1108
01:24:47,145 --> 01:24:49,595
it would be staggered over the 20 year period, correct?

1109
01:24:53,215 --> 01:24:56,855
no, a four year, yeah. Period of borrowing fiscal 26

1110
01:24:57,835 --> 01:25:01,735
through 29. 26 through 29. Thank you. So

1111
01:25:01,955 --> 01:25:05,495
then looking at, let's say for the sidewalks, 10 million

1112
01:25:06,615 --> 01:25:09,425
at 0.0151 per year

1113
01:25:11,385 --> 01:25:13,445
over a span of how many years again?

1114
01:25:17,025 --> 01:25:20,715
well, we paid the debt back over a span of 20 years. Mm-hmm .

1115
01:25:23,215 --> 01:25:26,755
I'm not sure that I understand your question. The tax begins in 2027,

1116
01:25:27,855 --> 01:25:31,595
is that correct? Yes, that's correct. The estimates that we provided

1117
01:25:32,055 --> 01:25:35,995
for tax increases would be effective fy 27 if the

1118
01:25:36,235 --> 01:25:40,235
referendum's approved. Okay. And then the span would be for four

1119
01:25:40,515 --> 01:25:44,395
years? Is that what you said? The, if, if all three bond orders

1120
01:25:44,825 --> 01:25:48,375
were approved by the voters or bond questions, we would expect,

1121
01:25:49,025 --> 01:25:52,835
part of our planning work is that you would issue in fiscal year issue the

1122
01:25:53,035 --> 01:25:56,845
debt not all at once, but over a four year period every

1123
01:25:57,195 --> 01:26:01,195
time you issue the debt, we're assuming the payback is a

1124
01:26:01,315 --> 01:26:04,905
20 year term. Um, and that the

1125
01:26:05,505 --> 01:26:09,425
tax rate dedicated to the repayment of the debt would run for

1126
01:26:09,645 --> 01:26:10,325
the term of the debt.

1127
01:26:15,185 --> 01:26:19,125
I'm trying to follow you, you want me to say that

1128
01:26:19,665 --> 01:26:23,385
please. Okay. Repeat that. So, so there are three bond questions mm-hmm

1129
01:26:23,845 --> 01:26:27,065
. Those will be voted on separately. Um,

1130
01:26:28,145 --> 01:26:31,975
if they were to be approved, then the city would

1131
01:26:33,435 --> 01:26:37,365
with your approval or the, the board at that time. Right. The, the approval of the

1132
01:26:37,525 --> 01:26:41,485
bonds by the voters does not clear the path for issuing the

1133
01:26:41,605 --> 01:26:45,385
debt. It has to come back to the board each time you issue the debt. The

1134
01:26:45,765 --> 01:26:49,255
planning work that we've done with your staff assumes that we would issue

1135
01:26:50,825 --> 01:26:53,675
$2 million of bonds in fiscal 26 16,000,027,

1136
01:26:55,945 --> 01:26:59,865
2.8 and 28 and 3 million in 29th. So

1137
01:27:00,105 --> 01:27:04,035
by fiscal 29, the 24 million of bonds will

1138
01:27:04,325 --> 01:27:08,265
have been issued and the city will have received that money for

1139
01:27:08,565 --> 01:27:12,525
projects. Each of those four bond issues, 26, 27, 28, 29,

1140
01:27:14,535 --> 01:27:18,205
we've assumed the term of the debt. The repayment period

1141
01:27:18,785 --> 01:27:22,765
is a four is a 20 year term, which is pretty standard. It's like

1142
01:27:22,885 --> 01:27:26,685
a, having a 20 year mortgage. We're gonna repay that debt over 20

1143
01:27:26,965 --> 01:27:30,955
years. And as that new debt come,

1144
01:27:31,315 --> 01:27:35,135
debt service, annual debt service comes online, we've

1145
01:27:35,775 --> 01:27:38,945
calculated that we would need the equivalent of 2.75

1146
01:27:40,755 --> 01:27:44,725
pennies on the tax rate to make those payments and that

1147
01:27:44,995 --> 01:27:48,565
that revenue would need to be in place for the term of the debt.

1148
01:27:49,295 --> 01:27:53,165
thank you. I just want to simplified for the public so that

1149
01:27:53,355 --> 01:27:57,215
they could hear and get clarity. And I know that going forward we're

1150
01:27:57,565 --> 01:28:01,365
going to have some opportunities to engage the public also in

1151
01:28:01,585 --> 01:28:04,555
our public hearing that, uh, is scheduled for july 8th.

1152
01:28:05,605 --> 01:28:09,435
I just wanted simplified, so to make sure that our public understands

1153
01:28:10,225 --> 01:28:13,405
and can follow. Thank you.

1154
01:28:14,275 --> 01:28:17,485
okay. Any other questions?

1155
01:28:24,305 --> 01:28:28,275
if not, um, I would consider, um, listening

1156
01:28:28,885 --> 01:28:32,825
to a motion on item number 17. If

1157
01:28:33,045 --> 01:28:33,765
one would like to be made,

1158
01:28:37,055 --> 01:28:40,915
mayor will make a motion to and, and help me with

1159
01:28:41,155 --> 01:28:43,855
the wording that we are, um,

1160
01:28:46,035 --> 01:28:49,315
adopting the orders authorizing 2025

1161
01:28:50,395 --> 01:28:54,115
general vacation bonds. Is that accurate? Okay. So moved.

1162
01:28:54,705 --> 01:28:58,635
alright, we have a motion. Do we have a second? Second. We have a

1163
01:28:58,755 --> 01:29:00,715
second. Is there further discussion on the motion?

1164
01:29:03,195 --> 01:29:06,405
hearing none, let's have a roll call. Starting. Hold one second. Hold one second, ma'am.

1165
01:29:07,345 --> 01:29:10,745
kim? Yes. Lets verified. There has to be a separate vote for each one.

1166
01:29:12,955 --> 01:29:16,715
you do all. Okay. Um,

1167
01:29:17,385 --> 01:29:19,295
let's have a roll call starting with alderman prill.

1168
01:29:22,375 --> 01:29:25,835
alderman frill. Yes. Alderman royal. Yes.

1169
01:29:26,855 --> 01:29:30,725
alderman astor. Yes. Alderman mckenzie. Yes. Alderman best?

1170
01:29:31,315 --> 01:29:34,085
no. Mayor odom. Yes. Motion carries.

1171
01:29:35,755 --> 01:29:39,495
moving on to item number 18. Consider adopting a resolution approving a memorandum

1172
01:29:39,975 --> 01:29:43,135
of understanding with the drug enforcement administration, chief gallagher.

1173
01:29:45,985 --> 01:29:49,585
thank you mayor ford. Um, I'm pleased to be here today,

1174
01:29:50,315 --> 01:29:54,295
um, to request an opportunity to participate with

1175
01:29:54,795 --> 01:29:58,445
the federal, uh, task force officer program with

1176
01:29:58,835 --> 01:30:02,315
the, uh, department of, uh, the drug enforcement agency.

1177
01:30:03,555 --> 01:30:07,535
the, uh, new bern police department for decades have been investigating

1178
01:30:08,315 --> 01:30:11,835
and trying to combat, uh, the spread

1179
01:30:12,435 --> 01:30:15,895
and the distribution of dangerous drugs in our community.

1180
01:30:17,035 --> 01:30:20,875
in 2024, uh, we saw an increase of

1181
01:30:21,095 --> 01:30:25,085
over 50% more drug arrests than

1182
01:30:25,375 --> 01:30:29,295
the previous year and almost 25% more drug arrests.

1183
01:30:29,695 --> 01:30:33,605
over a four year period, we've been given this opportunity to partner with

1184
01:30:34,255 --> 01:30:37,935
the dea through the federal task force officer

1185
01:30:38,415 --> 01:30:42,135
program to leverage additional resources, training, and intelligence

1186
01:30:43,555 --> 01:30:47,415
and assign tfo would work out of the newburn police department's

1187
01:30:48,255 --> 01:30:51,235
narcotics office, and our focus would be,

1188
01:30:52,475 --> 01:30:55,365
um, on new bern,

1189
01:30:56,595 --> 01:31:00,455
uh, um, uh, or investigations within new bern. Now the task

1190
01:31:00,655 --> 01:31:04,575
force officer would also be responsible if needed, uh, by

1191
01:31:04,735 --> 01:31:06,975
the dea for regional investigations.

1192
01:31:08,885 --> 01:31:12,455
part of the, um, asset of this relationship

1193
01:31:13,785 --> 01:31:17,135
would be reimbursement for buy money and also additional

1194
01:31:17,825 --> 01:31:21,595
focus on investigations into vape shops and,

1195
01:31:22,355 --> 01:31:26,195
uh, their relationship with illegal contraband. We

1196
01:31:26,415 --> 01:31:29,615
currently have relationships with the federal government through

1197
01:31:30,605 --> 01:31:33,935
tfos with the fbi, the us marshal service

1198
01:31:34,835 --> 01:31:37,225
and the state of north carolina's commerce department

1199
01:31:38,975 --> 01:31:42,485
participation in this program would not remove any uniformed

1200
01:31:43,095 --> 01:31:46,575
officers from the operations division. This collateral assignment

1201
01:31:47,225 --> 01:31:50,455
would be, um, assigned to a plainclothes

1202
01:31:51,255 --> 01:31:54,205
detective who is currently in the narcotics unit.

1203
01:31:55,355 --> 01:31:59,245
um, and, uh, the reality is whether we have

1204
01:31:59,605 --> 01:32:03,525
a formal agreement with the dea or not, we've been working with the

1205
01:32:03,845 --> 01:32:07,525
dea, um, on drug investigations for years.

1206
01:32:08,315 --> 01:32:11,995
this would just benefit our agency greatly, um, because

1207
01:32:12,625 --> 01:32:16,385
of the formalized relationship would give us the additional resources, um,

1208
01:32:17,305 --> 01:32:21,225
to leverage, um, our investigations and hopefully have a bigger impact

1209
01:32:21,705 --> 01:32:25,605
on drug distributions in new bern. So I'm happy to answer any questions

1210
01:32:25,765 --> 01:32:28,565
regarding this relationship. Does the board have questions?

1211
01:32:31,665 --> 01:32:35,605
if not, may, I'd like to make the recommend, or excuse me, I'd like to make a motion that we

1212
01:32:35,765 --> 01:32:39,505
adopt a resolution approvement a mo you with the

1213
01:32:39,915 --> 01:32:43,845
drug enforcement administration. Second, I have

1214
01:32:43,925 --> 01:32:47,895
a motion to second is there further discussion. Chief,

1215
01:32:48,245 --> 01:32:51,935
you have me at vape shops. So let's

1216
01:32:52,285 --> 01:32:55,845
have a roll call starting with alderman roy alderman memorial?

1217
01:32:56,465 --> 01:33:00,045
yes. Alderman aser. Yes. Alderman kinzie.

1218
01:33:00,545 --> 01:33:04,345
yes. Alderman best? Yes. Alderman crell. Yes.

1219
01:33:05,695 --> 01:33:09,355
mayor oda? Yes. Motion carries. Thank you. Next

1220
01:33:09,705 --> 01:33:13,605
up is considered, uh, adopting a resolution authorizing the

1221
01:33:13,765 --> 01:33:17,635
submission of an application for the 2025 bureau of justice assistant

1222
01:33:18,245 --> 01:33:22,205
bulletproof vest grant chief gallagher. Yes, this is very similar

1223
01:33:22,625 --> 01:33:26,385
to the, um, request that we make annually, um,

1224
01:33:26,785 --> 01:33:30,515
in order to, uh, sustain the, um, bulletproof

1225
01:33:31,285 --> 01:33:34,985
rest, uh, rotation and for new officers, um,

1226
01:33:35,425 --> 01:33:39,225
of 23 vests, that liability to the city is

1227
01:33:40,455 --> 01:33:44,265
$32,982 to participate

1228
01:33:44,955 --> 01:33:48,935
in this grant. And if we receive this grant, uh, our liability would be cut

1229
01:33:49,155 --> 01:33:53,075
in half to $16,491. This is

1230
01:33:53,395 --> 01:33:57,315
a, uh, 50 50 match and again, this is the exact language that

1231
01:33:57,555 --> 01:34:01,365
we've had for the past four years since I've been the chief here board.

1232
01:34:01,715 --> 01:34:05,195
have questions? There's no questions. I make a motion

1233
01:34:06,375 --> 01:34:10,215
to adopt the resolution authorizing the submission of an application for

1234
01:34:10,435 --> 01:34:14,185
the 2025 year of justice assistant bulletproof vest

1235
01:34:14,605 --> 01:34:18,575
grant. Second? Second. Second. We have a motion and a second. Is

1236
01:34:18,795 --> 01:34:22,595
there any further discussion? Hearing none once.

1237
01:34:22,835 --> 01:34:26,675
have a roll call sergeant with alderman asher. Alderman asher? Yes. Alderman

1238
01:34:27,155 --> 01:34:30,975
mckenzie? Yes. Alderman desk? Yes. Alderman frill. Yes.

1239
01:34:31,955 --> 01:34:35,595
alderman royal? Yes. Mayor odom? Yes. Motion carries. Thank you chief.

1240
01:34:36,465 --> 01:34:40,095
next up is item number 20. Consider doubting an ordinance for the demolition of 10

1241
01:34:40,635 --> 01:34:41,975
14 grace street. Ms. Ru.

1242
01:34:47,385 --> 01:34:51,195
good evening again. Staff is seeking an approval of an ordinance to demolish

1243
01:34:51,595 --> 01:34:55,075
the dwelling and accessory structure located at 10 14. Grace street

1244
01:34:56,165 --> 01:35:00,065
staff has sent the owner of record an initial minimum housing letter as is

1245
01:35:00,605 --> 01:35:04,195
required on january 9th, 2023, stating

1246
01:35:04,685 --> 01:35:08,165
that the dwelling and structures located at 10 14 grace street have deficiencies

1247
01:35:09,245 --> 01:35:13,245
constituting violations of our minimum housing code. Staff further attempted

1248
01:35:13,845 --> 01:35:17,845
to contact the owners via the us postal service and certified letters were sent

1249
01:35:18,045 --> 01:35:21,825
and returned and non-certified letters were delivered, but received no

1250
01:35:22,365 --> 01:35:26,285
response, no working contact information, phone numbers,

1251
01:35:26,575 --> 01:35:30,005
email addresses, or relatives were identified in our staff investigation.

1252
01:35:31,185 --> 01:35:34,325
so staff filed a complaint and a notice of hearing on september 16th, 2024

1253
01:35:36,585 --> 01:35:40,445
and neither of the defendants attended. The defendants, sorry,

1254
01:35:41,525 --> 01:35:45,215
attended the october 15th, 2024 hearing given

1255
01:35:45,635 --> 01:35:49,245
this on october 17th, 2024 in order of the billing inspector

1256
01:35:49,665 --> 01:35:53,485
was served to the owners to bring the dwelling back into compliance with minimum

1257
01:35:53,765 --> 01:35:57,675
housing standards established by chapter 38 of our city code with

1258
01:35:57,965 --> 01:35:59,605
an expiration date of december 16th, 2024.

1259
01:36:02,385 --> 01:36:06,185
to date, there has been no contact from the owners, no permits have been applied for,

1260
01:36:06,825 --> 01:36:10,675
and the dwelling and the accessory structure as well remain non-compliant.

1261
01:36:12,235 --> 01:36:16,045
both the complaint and the obi were published in the newspaper and posted on the dwelling

1262
01:36:16,405 --> 01:36:20,165
to ensure notification requirements were fulfilled. The demolition

1263
01:36:21,245 --> 01:36:24,585
estimate on this property from our public works department is $10,330.

1264
01:36:26,875 --> 01:36:30,845
this excludes asbestos testing and at this

1265
01:36:30,965 --> 01:36:34,885
point utility terminations have not yet been completed. I will

1266
01:36:35,045 --> 01:36:38,665
point out this property is in an ae flood zone and

1267
01:36:39,105 --> 01:36:42,975
if adopted would be eligible for cbbg funding for demolition.

1268
01:36:44,295 --> 01:36:48,045
given that mr. Easel is available this evening to provide

1269
01:36:48,365 --> 01:36:52,165
additional details or provide answers to questions you may have on this case.

1270
01:36:52,955 --> 01:36:53,925
does the board have questions?

1271
01:36:58,205 --> 01:37:02,125
I have one on the, um, demolition estimate and

1272
01:37:02,245 --> 01:37:06,245
that's a pretty specific number. Are you using that something by square foot or how'd you come

1273
01:37:06,365 --> 01:37:10,365
up with that number patrick? Correct. That comes from public works themselves. They have a

1274
01:37:10,485 --> 01:37:13,065
formal to do that. Okay. Um,

1275
01:37:14,785 --> 01:37:18,775
for those that have been on the board for any length of time, that that number seems to be quite

1276
01:37:19,125 --> 01:37:22,885
a bit higher than what we would typically see. Do you know, have we changed that calculation

1277
01:37:23,805 --> 01:37:27,475
recently? And it's mostly in tipping fees is what we'll see with that. Okay.

1278
01:37:30,595 --> 01:37:34,565
that was all the questions I have. Ms. Board have any, there's no more questions

1279
01:37:34,825 --> 01:37:38,805
by the board. I make a motion to adopt an ordinance for the

1280
01:37:38,925 --> 01:37:42,925
demolition of 10 14 grace street. Second. I

1281
01:37:43,045 --> 01:37:46,005
have a motion and a second. Is there further discussion on item number 20?

1282
01:37:48,875 --> 01:37:52,625
hearing none. We'll have a roll call starting with the alderman kenzie. Alderman kenzie?

1283
01:37:53,345 --> 01:37:56,945
yes. Alderman best? Yes. Alderman frill. Yes.

1284
01:37:58,445 --> 01:38:02,275
alderman royal? Yes. Alderman aster? Yes. Mayor odom?

1285
01:38:02,625 --> 01:38:06,425
yes. Motion carries. Moving on to item number 21. Consider adopting the

1286
01:38:06,645 --> 01:38:09,885
final budget ordinance amendment for fy 2025. Ms. Osland,

1287
01:38:11,555 --> 01:38:15,355
this budget ordinance allows for the final budget adjustments for fiscal year

1288
01:38:15,645 --> 01:38:19,585
25 to ensure sufficient budget for projected expenses and

1289
01:38:19,805 --> 01:38:23,605
alignment of revenues overall, the budget general

1290
01:38:23,955 --> 01:38:27,845
fund amendment includes an increase of 655,000 for health insurance

1291
01:38:28,295 --> 01:38:32,245
costs 104,000 for the replacement of the peg channel equipment,

1292
01:38:33,015 --> 01:38:37,005
which is part of the insurance claim. Reimbursement costs were partially

1293
01:38:37,445 --> 01:38:41,375
offset with reductions in budgets across several divisions with the largest being

1294
01:38:41,725 --> 01:38:45,205
320 through $20,000 for debt payments,

1295
01:38:46,425 --> 01:38:50,165
um, that was budgeted. But since we delayed financing the capital,

1296
01:38:50,865 --> 01:38:54,355
um, the debt payments will begin next fiscal year.

1297
01:38:55,465 --> 01:38:59,365
the result appropriates $430,000 from fund balance for the general

1298
01:38:59,675 --> 01:39:03,565
fund. The water fund reflects an increase of $350,000,

1299
01:39:04,935 --> 01:39:08,935
which includes an increase in health insurance, utility costs,

1300
01:39:09,655 --> 01:39:12,525
water meters, pipes and fittings, and $39,000

1301
01:39:13,785 --> 01:39:17,585
for the write off of skys sale tap fees due to bankruptcy and

1302
01:39:17,805 --> 01:39:21,625
an increase of 6,000 for inter fund transfers with reduction of

1303
01:39:21,865 --> 01:39:25,725
225,000 insured services charges. The result appropriates

1304
01:39:26,565 --> 01:39:30,345
$170,000 from fund balance. The

1305
01:39:30,575 --> 01:39:34,435
sewer fund reflects an increase of 80,000 for health insurance. $75,000

1306
01:39:35,985 --> 01:39:39,785
for the right off of sky sale tap fees, 15,000 for

1307
01:39:40,005 --> 01:39:43,085
inter fund transfers. These increases were offset by $170,000

1308
01:39:44,545 --> 01:39:48,365
for the reduction sheet services and no additional fund balance is appropriated.

1309
01:39:49,505 --> 01:39:51,445
the electric fund reflects an increase of 3,000,010

1310
01:39:53,715 --> 01:39:57,485
hold on, $10,000 for the increased cost

1311
01:39:57,725 --> 01:40:00,875
for purchase power and the amount of 2.7 million $400,000

1312
01:40:01,985 --> 01:40:05,685
for transformers, cables devices and an increase in overtime

1313
01:40:06,165 --> 01:40:10,105
salaries and health insurance. Cost of shared services and

1314
01:40:10,325 --> 01:40:14,285
inter fund transfers increased by 87,000 in debt consulting costs

1315
01:40:14,505 --> 01:40:18,045
by 89,000. The result of these adjustments appropriate 3,186,000

1316
01:40:19,765 --> 01:40:23,425
from electric funds fund balance. The

1317
01:40:23,805 --> 01:40:26,125
employee's benefit insurance fund reflects an increase of 2,287,000

1318
01:40:27,925 --> 01:40:31,185
for health insurance claims and the other in other post post-employment

1319
01:40:32,405 --> 01:40:35,325
benefits fund is amended to reflect the transfer of a hundred thousand dollars.

1320
01:40:36,505 --> 01:40:39,285
do you have any questions? Board have questions?

1321
01:40:44,135 --> 01:40:47,955
could you provide some clarity on the sky sale

1322
01:40:48,575 --> 01:40:52,105
bankruptcy that we're writing off, if you have any? Yeah. So

1323
01:40:53,545 --> 01:40:57,325
we received, um, the papers

1324
01:40:57,705 --> 01:41:01,365
for the bankruptcy for sky sale and we have to dismiss those bad debt charges.

1325
01:41:02,025 --> 01:41:05,885
so essentially we're writing them off. I have not personally seen it. It was with

1326
01:41:06,185 --> 01:41:09,825
um, scott and our council revenue person. So

1327
01:41:10,215 --> 01:41:14,185
who's filing bankruptcy? We're gonna have to ask the city attorney to

1328
01:41:14,865 --> 01:41:18,525
to answer that question. Marva, can you, can you give him, I'm just curious because

1329
01:41:19,025 --> 01:41:22,645
all I hear is every time a unit gets on the market in sky sale, it sells quickly.

1330
01:41:23,265 --> 01:41:27,065
so I'm curious on who filed bankruptcy and who still owes us money for tap

1331
01:41:27,285 --> 01:41:30,345
fees. I would've thought the tap fees would've been paid for a long time ago.

1332
01:41:34,195 --> 01:41:37,715
they unsecured debt kim? Hmm. Tap fees, unsecured

1333
01:41:38,325 --> 01:41:42,115
debt. It's just, it's um, amounts

1334
01:41:42,605 --> 01:41:46,355
that are owed and it goes to bad debt. Write off mr. Davis.

1335
01:41:47,275 --> 01:41:50,175
the question I had was about the sky sale bankruptcy. Yes sir.

1336
01:41:52,115 --> 01:41:56,085
the bankruptcy, um, removed. Was it 60 some thousand dollars of debt

1337
01:41:56,435 --> 01:41:59,855
for sewer t fees? Those were unsecured claims and in bankruptcy,

1338
01:42:00,505 --> 01:42:04,415
those unsecured claims go unpaid. I wanna say we might have gotten pennies on

1339
01:42:04,535 --> 01:42:08,495
a dollar. I don't remember what it was. 10 20 cents on a dollar for unsecured claims.

1340
01:42:09,555 --> 01:42:13,535
and this is, so it goes back 15, 10, 15 years. Okay. That was

1341
01:42:13,695 --> 01:42:17,605
my question. Listen, this is a long, long time ago. Okay. Yeah. Alright.

1342
01:42:19,315 --> 01:42:22,015
why did they owe us tap fees for 15 years?

1343
01:42:23,845 --> 01:42:27,415
they probably owed 'em 15 years ago and didn't pay 'em. That's why they filed eee. Exactly,

1344
01:42:28,085 --> 01:42:31,725
exactly. The project went upside down during the bust

1345
01:42:32,235 --> 01:42:36,095
around oh seven and um, and we, we received

1346
01:42:36,265 --> 01:42:39,295
about half of our te payments when they filed bankruptcy.

1347
01:42:40,355 --> 01:42:41,895
so the remaining balance was stripped.

1348
01:42:47,945 --> 01:42:51,355
okay. Any other questions from the board?

1349
01:42:52,605 --> 01:42:56,555
mayor, I'll make a motion to adopt the final budget ordinance amendment for fiscal

1350
01:42:56,905 --> 01:43:00,875
year 2025. Second. I

1351
01:43:00,995 --> 01:43:03,915
have a motion a second on item number 21. Is there further discussion?

1352
01:43:07,105 --> 01:43:10,875
hearing none? Let's have a roll call starting with alderman best? Alderman

1353
01:43:11,225 --> 01:43:14,755
best? Yes. Alderman creel? Yes. Alderman royal?

1354
01:43:15,415 --> 01:43:18,935
yes. Alderman ster? Yes. Alderman kenzie? Yes.

1355
01:43:20,085 --> 01:43:23,895
mayor o? Yes. Motion carries. Next up is

1356
01:43:24,115 --> 01:43:27,675
appointments. Does anyone have an appointment tonight? I do, sir.

1357
01:43:28,265 --> 01:43:32,095
alright, lemme get honor mckenzie first. Go ahead sir. Uh, I'm be

1358
01:43:32,315 --> 01:43:35,595
appointing uh, tim thompson

1359
01:43:36,375 --> 01:43:40,355
to the hpc. Okay. I

1360
01:43:40,475 --> 01:43:44,255
have a motion. Do we have a second? Second. I have a motion to second to,

1361
01:43:44,635 --> 01:43:48,555
I believe that's a reappointment of tim thompson. It is. Okay. Is any

1362
01:43:48,715 --> 01:43:52,325
further discussion? All those in favor say aye. Aye. Aye.

1363
01:43:52,905 --> 01:43:56,845
any opposed? Okay. Be reappointed. Is that all sir?

1364
01:43:57,725 --> 01:44:01,025
I have uh, another appointment, a new appointment, uh,

1365
01:44:02,175 --> 01:44:05,965
place in marcus with uh, I think this

1366
01:44:06,205 --> 01:44:06,555
is john.

1367
01:44:11,525 --> 01:44:15,285
I don't wanna mess his name up. Schnee snead. Okay. I would,

1368
01:44:15,605 --> 01:44:18,485
I would think to the, um, hpc.

1369
01:44:20,155 --> 01:44:23,195
okay. And that's it. Alright.

1370
01:44:24,285 --> 01:44:28,285
sergeant mckenzie's made a motion. Do we have a second? Second. Second. I have a motion and a

1371
01:44:28,365 --> 01:44:32,085
second. Is there further discussion? Hearing none. All those

1372
01:44:32,745 --> 01:44:36,605
in favor say aye. Aye. Aye. Any opposed? Okay. He is

1373
01:44:36,765 --> 01:44:40,685
appointed. Is that all you had, sir? That's it. Okay. Alderman astro, I think you had

1374
01:44:40,845 --> 01:44:44,705
one. Uh, yes. Um, I would like to reappoint tim to, to

1375
01:44:44,955 --> 01:44:48,945
back tab tabak. Tabak tabak. Yeah. Thank you to

1376
01:44:49,165 --> 01:44:53,115
the board of adjustments. And I would also like

1377
01:44:53,405 --> 01:44:57,185
to, let's, let's do him first. Okay. So we have a motion to reappoint tim

1378
01:44:57,535 --> 01:45:01,525
tabak to the board of adjustments. Do we have a second? Second. Have a second. Is there further

1379
01:45:01,685 --> 01:45:05,545
discussion? Hearing none? All those in favor say aye. Aye.

1380
01:45:05,945 --> 01:45:09,915
any opposed? Okay. Mr. Tabak is reappointed now go ahead with your second one sir. Alright.

1381
01:45:10,585 --> 01:45:14,205
and the hpc mr. Jim bisbee is, um, no longer

1382
01:45:14,955 --> 01:45:18,635
able to be reappointed. So in his place I would like to appoint

1383
01:45:19,395 --> 01:45:20,355
ross bebe.

1384
01:45:23,785 --> 01:45:27,085
do we have a second to nomination? Second. Okay, we have a second. Is there further discussion?

1385
01:45:28,835 --> 01:45:32,685
hearing none? All those in favor say aye. A aye. Any opposed? Okay. Mr.

1386
01:45:33,075 --> 01:45:36,825
bebe is appointed. Anyone else have a appointment? Yes.

1387
01:45:37,285 --> 01:45:41,005
I would like to a motion to reappoint ms. Kathleen

1388
01:45:41,495 --> 01:45:44,765
marty to the board of adjustments she served previously.

1389
01:45:45,625 --> 01:45:48,395
she says she would love to serve another term.

1390
01:45:49,675 --> 01:45:53,645
okay, we have a motion. Do we have a second for ms. Marty? Second. I have a motion

1391
01:45:53,825 --> 01:45:57,395
to second to reappoint. Ms. Marty. Is there further discussion? Hearing

1392
01:45:57,885 --> 01:46:01,865
none. All those in favor say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Ms. Marty is

1393
01:46:02,085 --> 01:46:05,405
reappointed. Anyone else?

1394
01:46:08,795 --> 01:46:12,515
okay, I'll move on to attorney's report. Uh, nothing before tonight. Mayor, city

1395
01:46:12,805 --> 01:46:16,725
manager's report if you have to update you on, um, our aquatic center

1396
01:46:16,885 --> 01:46:20,805
was scheduled to open, um, memorial weekend about three

1397
01:46:21,045 --> 01:46:24,965
days before that occurred. The pump malfunctioned. Um, unfortunately

1398
01:46:25,865 --> 01:46:29,445
the type of pump we have in a spoon pool is not when you can go out to a walmart

1399
01:46:30,465 --> 01:46:34,365
or a local pool supply company to replace. And so we have

1400
01:46:34,525 --> 01:46:38,165
had to work with a local pump company and they have had to skew,

1401
01:46:39,035 --> 01:46:43,005
literally scour the united states to find the parts and the motors to basically

1402
01:46:43,325 --> 01:46:47,245
rebuild this. So, um, staff has had conversations with them

1403
01:46:47,555 --> 01:46:51,525
this week. The, all of the parts are supposed to be in place tomorrow.

1404
01:46:52,265 --> 01:46:56,065
the pump company has, has told us that the pump should be, um,

1405
01:46:56,465 --> 01:47:00,125
put back together by friday. If that occurs, staff will install

1406
01:47:00,485 --> 01:47:04,225
the pump friday at some point. And the goal is for the aquatic center to be open on

1407
01:47:04,645 --> 01:47:08,605
saturday. So I want to let you know that, uh, the riverwalk fishing pier, we

1408
01:47:08,805 --> 01:47:12,745
had our grand opening on friday, may 23rd. Uh, staff was

1409
01:47:12,965 --> 01:47:16,425
still in the process of installing the lights. Those got turned on on may 28th.

1410
01:47:17,705 --> 01:47:21,635
and so the fishing pier has been active. We've had a lot of good comments from

1411
01:47:22,025 --> 01:47:25,685
the citizens and visitors. The fishing, uh, is available on the pier

1412
01:47:26,085 --> 01:47:30,025
24 7. Uh, and it is free to fish on the pier, so

1413
01:47:30,585 --> 01:47:34,485
I'm gonna let you know that. Uh, just a reminder, the employee appreciation election

1414
01:47:34,645 --> 01:47:38,365
will be on thursday, june 12th at the west river recreation center from 11 to one.

1415
01:47:39,105 --> 01:47:42,955
and also, uh, we've got 4th of july coming up. So just a reminder, city offices will

1416
01:47:43,245 --> 01:47:46,965
be closed on july 4th. The 4th of july celebration will occur at lawson

1417
01:47:47,325 --> 01:47:51,215
creek park. Events kickoff at 5:30 pm we'll have live music,

1418
01:47:51,565 --> 01:47:55,165
entertainment and fireworks will be held at promptly at nine 15.

1419
01:47:57,145 --> 01:48:01,025
that's all we have, sir. Okay. Next is new business alderman pri. Uh,

1420
01:48:01,245 --> 01:48:04,175
nothing tonight though. Alderman royal? Yes, mayor.

1421
01:48:06,045 --> 01:48:08,565
I would like to make a motion to reallocate,

1422
01:48:10,145 --> 01:48:14,025
uh, my remaining a rp funds for ward two

1423
01:48:15,345 --> 01:48:19,065
for the following projects. Number one,

1424
01:48:19,925 --> 01:48:23,835
a screening around the existing pump

1425
01:48:24,125 --> 01:48:28,045
station at the evergreen cemetery. Uh, it would

1426
01:48:28,245 --> 01:48:31,525
provide a wood fence and landscaping between the new shelter

1427
01:48:32,825 --> 01:48:35,745
and the retention pond at a cost of $10,000.

1428
01:48:37,825 --> 01:48:41,495
uh, the second item is to pave trent

1429
01:48:41,845 --> 01:48:45,675
street in the pembroke community at an estimated

1430
01:48:46,395 --> 01:48:50,325
cost of $50,000. Uh, the third

1431
01:48:50,745 --> 01:48:53,825
one is to contribute $10,000

1432
01:48:55,075 --> 01:48:58,365
towards the total cost of the restroom project

1433
01:48:59,545 --> 01:49:03,185
at henderson park. And the fourth one

1434
01:49:03,625 --> 01:49:05,945
is to contribute approximately $2,400

1435
01:49:08,305 --> 01:49:11,845
to the duffy field neighborhood sign. Uh, the total

1436
01:49:12,565 --> 01:49:15,605
proposed project is estimated at approximately $72,400.

1437
01:49:21,035 --> 01:49:24,845
okay, we have a motion. Do we have a second? Second. We have a motion and a second.

1438
01:49:25,105 --> 01:49:25,645
is there further discussion?

1439
01:49:29,425 --> 01:49:33,325
um, since we're just given direction, a resolution's gonna have to come back to spend the funding

1440
01:49:33,635 --> 01:49:37,425
correctly. So we would take a no, I don't need a resolution, but

1441
01:49:37,645 --> 01:49:41,625
if we can repeat those amounts, I would appreciate it. The clerk can we, we

1442
01:49:41,845 --> 01:49:45,785
we've got, she you've got all the amounts? Yeah. Okay. So we good with, um,

1443
01:49:47,365 --> 01:49:50,965
a voice vote since we're not doing a resolution here? Mm-hmm . Okay, just minutes.

1444
01:49:51,785 --> 01:49:55,725
all those in favor say aye a aye. Any opposed? It's unanimous.

1445
01:49:56,475 --> 01:50:00,085
okay, thank you. Is that all you have, ma'am? That's all. Alright,

1446
01:50:00,485 --> 01:50:04,445
thank you. Harm master. Uh, yes ma'am. Um, first thing I,

1447
01:50:04,685 --> 01:50:07,905
I wanted to ask the city manager, do we have any, um,

1448
01:50:09,665 --> 01:50:13,185
update on removing the traffic out on landscape in

1449
01:50:13,685 --> 01:50:17,485
carolina colors by the school to make a turning lane for any people to go

1450
01:50:17,755 --> 01:50:21,735
into the school parking lot? We do not have an update, but I can get you one. We'll

1451
01:50:22,085 --> 01:50:26,015
send something out to the board tomorrow morning and let you know. Okay, great.

1452
01:50:26,785 --> 01:50:30,765
and also, um, as you know, with all this road construction that's taking

1453
01:50:30,925 --> 01:50:34,625
place over and on the james city side, um,

1454
01:50:35,755 --> 01:50:39,585
there's been a tremendous amount of traffic using old airport road and

1455
01:50:39,805 --> 01:50:42,775
they're coming up, uh, down to, to burna

1456
01:50:43,985 --> 01:50:47,845
way and making a left to go out that way or make it a right to go

1457
01:50:48,005 --> 01:50:51,685
out and continue down old airport road. Uh, as a result of that,

1458
01:50:52,125 --> 01:50:56,105
I would, I like to, um, use $6,000 of,

1459
01:50:56,545 --> 01:51:00,255
uh, a rp funds for the the electronic,

1460
01:51:01,665 --> 01:51:05,545
uh, flashing stop sign. We've had some issues

1461
01:51:06,415 --> 01:51:10,065
there. Uh, I've got several complaints of, um, people

1462
01:51:10,885 --> 01:51:14,545
actually running the, the, the stop sign through there. Talk to george

1463
01:51:15,295 --> 01:51:19,005
chows about it. And this was the solution that we come up with.

1464
01:51:19,305 --> 01:51:22,905
so I would like to ask the board to authorize, uh, not to exceed $6,000

1465
01:51:24,625 --> 01:51:28,565
in the electronic stop sign. So we have a motion. Do we have a second?

1466
01:51:29,265 --> 01:51:33,245
second. Wait a minute. Hold. I'm gonna ask, is that one? I think it was just

1467
01:51:33,325 --> 01:51:36,645
one, yeah, one sign. I'm sorry. Okay. We have a motion? We have a second.

1468
01:51:38,095 --> 01:51:41,915
any further discussion? Hearing none. All those in

1469
01:51:42,115 --> 01:51:45,995
favor say aye. Aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously.

1470
01:51:46,915 --> 01:51:50,835
anything else? Nothing. Thank you. Okay, all mckenzie, uh, tonight. Thank you allman.

1471
01:51:51,235 --> 01:51:55,215
best? Yes. Um, officer, do you have any idea when on tv

1472
01:51:55,485 --> 01:51:59,115
three would be back, back up and running? So with the budget amendment

1473
01:52:00,025 --> 01:52:03,535
that just occurred that you had just approved purchase order will be cut

1474
01:52:04,475 --> 01:52:08,205
tomorrow morning. Staff will order that, that those supplies, we'll,

1475
01:52:08,555 --> 01:52:12,395
we'll send that update out tomorrow. They'll give us an estimated eta on when that equipment will arrive.

1476
01:52:13,175 --> 01:52:17,115
so we'd like to say within the next few weeks we'll receive the equipment that our

1477
01:52:17,275 --> 01:52:21,035
it folks will put it all together, test it. So it would be great

1478
01:52:21,575 --> 01:52:25,455
if it, it would be great if it was by the july meeting. I don't know if that'll happen, but

1479
01:52:25,675 --> 01:52:29,635
I think definitely by the august meeting it'll be back up. Alright, thank you. But we'll give you an

1480
01:52:29,715 --> 01:52:33,505
update on that. Thank you so much. That's it. Okay. Um, just

1481
01:52:34,095 --> 01:52:37,955
one question, comment, request. Um, foster, I think you

1482
01:52:38,115 --> 01:52:40,615
had mentioned that you and maybe colleen, were gonna work on

1483
01:52:42,305 --> 01:52:46,205
some collateral to show what areas within the city is open

1484
01:52:46,545 --> 01:52:50,545
to fish. Um, there seems to be a lot of confusion, uh,

1485
01:52:50,765 --> 01:52:54,725
in the community about, uh, the only place to fish in the city

1486
01:52:54,885 --> 01:52:58,845
of new vern is the new fishing pier that we have. Um, some of you may have received

1487
01:52:59,205 --> 01:53:02,605
a, um, petition that was signed, uh, by a lot of folks that

1488
01:53:03,305 --> 01:53:07,025
are not in the city limits, but a lot of people not even in the state. Um,

1489
01:53:07,705 --> 01:53:11,395
and, and the, the petition was very well crafted

1490
01:53:12,385 --> 01:53:16,165
except it left out one integral part and that was the fact that we added a fishing gear.

1491
01:53:16,545 --> 01:53:20,405
so all it talked about was what we took away. It didn't talk about what we added. And as we all

1492
01:53:20,605 --> 01:53:24,365
know, there was a lot of places around the city that is open to the public for fishing.

1493
01:53:25,185 --> 01:53:29,085
um, and I think if we had a map, uh, to show those areas, it would be very beneficial.

1494
01:53:30,105 --> 01:53:33,725
we are, we're actually working with the public information officer and parks and recreation

1495
01:53:34,285 --> 01:53:38,245
who is going to be putting out a robust campaign. But, but just to cover that information

1496
01:53:38,785 --> 01:53:42,725
for you, mayor fishing is allowed anywhere where there's

1497
01:53:42,965 --> 01:53:46,895
water access at glen burnie park. It's, it's allowed at any of the three ponds

1498
01:53:47,245 --> 01:53:50,975
in martin marietta park at any locations around there, even in the canal

1499
01:53:51,325 --> 01:53:55,125
that goes out to new the noose river at lawson creek park. While we do have designated

1500
01:53:55,775 --> 01:53:59,465
areas, it's available at any part of the water or on along lawson

1501
01:53:59,885 --> 01:54:03,885
creek park as well as on the river walk on lawson creek park all the

1502
01:54:04,005 --> 01:54:07,925
way up to council bluff green. So there are several areas. The only

1503
01:54:08,045 --> 01:54:11,915
area that we do not allow fishing now is basically from,

1504
01:54:12,625 --> 01:54:16,625
I'm sorry, I made a mistake. Palace point commons is where it's allowed. We

1505
01:54:16,845 --> 01:54:20,745
do not allow fishing from council bluff green basically to,

1506
01:54:21,265 --> 01:54:24,945
uh, it stops at for simmons, uh, right there where the housing is.

1507
01:54:25,745 --> 01:54:29,125
you have not had the opportunity to fish at union point park.

1508
01:54:29,825 --> 01:54:33,405
you will not be able to fish. Um, basically from the convention center to the

1509
01:54:33,965 --> 01:54:37,805
railroad tracks. Um, the main reason

1510
01:54:38,225 --> 01:54:42,145
we have built a pier is to allow a better opportunity for those to

1511
01:54:42,365 --> 01:54:46,365
fish out in the water. Now I will tell you that, uh, based on

1512
01:54:46,765 --> 01:54:50,395
comments we have seen, we, we had a lot of issues with trash fishermen

1513
01:54:51,005 --> 01:54:54,695
not picking up, uh, bait, things like that. So it was a constant issue

1514
01:54:55,395 --> 01:54:59,245
with city staff having to go out on a daily basis to, to clean up

1515
01:54:59,605 --> 01:55:03,425
a, a lot of mess. We had a lot of complaints from adjoining residents and

1516
01:55:03,645 --> 01:55:07,505
so building the pier was a much better option. Uh, it,

1517
01:55:07,725 --> 01:55:11,105
it lets them focus on fishing on that pier itself and it also gives our

1518
01:55:11,845 --> 01:55:15,425
citizens and visitors an opportunity to go out on that pier. Enjoy nature

1519
01:55:15,945 --> 01:55:19,785
and sightseeing as well. Ms. Fishing, thank you for that. Do

1520
01:55:20,005 --> 01:55:24,005
we need a closed session? Uh, yes sir. A number of issues. Um, we need to a closed session

1521
01:55:24,345 --> 01:55:28,305
to discuss a personnel matter, so to 1 43, 13, 11 a six.

1522
01:55:28,865 --> 01:55:31,405
and we have several legal issues, uh, pursuant to 1 43 13 11 83.

1523
01:55:34,545 --> 01:55:38,505
do we have a motion to go into closed session? So moved. Mayor second.

1524
01:55:39,285 --> 01:55:43,115
I have a motion to second. Is there any further discussion? Hearing

1525
01:55:43,605 --> 01:55:47,605
none. All those in favor say aye. A aye. Any opposed? We're in

1526
01:55:47,805 --> 01:55:47,965
closed session.