This Agenda is about the Hickory City Council meeting that took place on the date listed above. City council meetings are held on the first and third Tuesdays of each Month in the Council Chambers of the Julian Whitener building.
At right of this page under Main Information links is an Hickory's City Website link. If you click on that link, it takes you to our city’s website/ The City's website evolves over time, but currently towrds the top right there is a Link called Quick Links. Click that on and look for the Agenda's and Minutes link you need to click. Scroll down from there and this will show you a list of PDF files to upcoming and previous meetings.
Agendas show what is on the docket for the meeting of that date. The Minutes is an actual summary of the proceedings of the meeting of that date. You can also look in the upper right hand corner of the front page of the Hickory Hound and (will soon) find the link to the past history of Hickory City Newsletters.
Here is a summary of the agenda of the meeting. There were a couple of important items that were discussed at this meeting and the details are listed further below:
Please remember that pressing Ctrl and + will magnify the text and page and pressing Ctrl and - will make the text and page smaller. This will help the readability for those with smaller screens and/or eye difficulties.
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Hound Notes: Sorry for the lack of updates and articles. I will finish out the last Newsletter. Just been taking a break during a very hot Summer. There was no urgent issue related to the last meeting. There was one gentleman that came forward and addressed the Council about the annex parking at Glenn Hilton Park.
Looks like the group from Southwest Hickory is back to state their case again related to the proposed public housing on 4th Street SW.
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Invocation by Rev. Bob Thompson, Pastor, Corinth Reformed Church
Persons Requesting to Be Heard
A. Dr. Delores Hammer – Proposed Building of a Complex by the Hickory Public Authority on 4th Street SW.
B. Kim Clarke– Proposed Building of a Complex by the Hickory Public Authority on 4th Street SW.
C. Paul Gadd– Proposed Building of a Complex by the Hickory Public Authority on 4th Street SW.
D. Christine Winn– Proposed Building of a Complex by the Hickory Public Authority on 4th Street SW.
E. Crystal Rogers– Proposed Building of a Complex by the Hickory Public Authority on 4th Street SW.
F. Denise Poe – Corridor Reserved for Future Thoroughfare Located on Buckskin Drive, in Gunpowder Point.
Consent Agenda:
A. Approval to Issue a Pyrotechnic Display Permit to Hickory Crawdads. - Mark Seaman, General Manager of the Hickory Crawdads has submitted a request to obtain permission to have a public fireworks display on the following dates: September 11, 2015 with the rain date of September 12, 2015. The North Carolina Fire Code requires a mandatory operational permit for the use and handling of pyrotechnic special effects material. The Division of Fire & Life Safety Bureau shall review all required documentation. The Fire Prevention Bureau will also inspect the pyrotechnics display area prior to the event to ensure compliance with all guidelines and codes. Staff recommends approval of the pyrotechnics displays.
B. Approval to Issue a Pyrotechnic Display Permit to Hickory Motor Speedway. - Kevin Piercy, General Manager of the Hickory Motor Speedway has submitted a request to obtain permission to have a public fireworks display on the following 2015 dates: August 15, 2015 and September 7, 2015. The North Carolina Fire Code requires a mandatory operational permit for the use and handling of pyrotechnic special effects material. The Division of Fire & Life Safety Bureau shall review all required documentation. The Fire Prevention Bureau will also inspect the pyrotechnics display area prior to the event to ensure compliance with all guidelines and codes. Staff recommends approval of the pyrotechnics displays.
C. Approval of Annual Maintenance Agreement with Grayson Fitness Repair and Maintenance, Inc. - Since 2003 the City of Hickory Fire Department has deployed a series of physical fitness equipment. The department has had an annual preventive maintenance program since 2003 for the equipment in order to keep the equipment operational. Staff requests acceptance of a proposal from Grayson Fitness Repair & Maintenance Inc. to continue the quarterly service necessary to maintain the exercise equipment. The service agreement provides quarterly service to each piece of fitness equipment that is located at each of the fire stations. Staff recommends approval of the exercise equipment preventive maintenance agreement.
D. Acceptance of a Sanitary Sewer Line Easement for the Property of Josephine B. Hambrick, Wells Fargo NA, Margaret H. Glaze and Wilson E. Glaze II, described as PIN 3723-15-63-5314. - Staff requests acceptance of a 25 foot temporary construction and 25 foot permanent sanitary sewer line easement for the property of Josephine B. Hambrick, Wells Fargo NA, Margaret H. Glaze and Wilson
E. Glaze II, described as PIN 3723-15-63-5314. This easement is necessary for completion of the Sherwood Forest Subdivision Sanitary Sewer Project. This project was awarded to the City as a State Revolving Grant by NCDENR-DWQ in 2012, in the amount of $2.946 million dollars. The easement was negotiated for a total sum of $5,000 in exchange for the easement. Staff recommends approval of this temporary construction and permanent sanitary sewer easement across the property.
E. Acceptance of a Sanitary Sewer Line Easement for the Property of Linda Bumgarner Sigmon described as PIN 3723-16-83-0899. - Staff requests acceptance of a 25 foot temporary construction and 25 foot permanent sanitary sewer line easement for the property of Linda Bumgarner Sigmon described as PIN 3723-16-83-0899. This easement is necessary for completion of the Sherwood Forest Subdivision Sanitary Sewer Project. This project was awarded to the City as a State Revolving Grant by NCDENR-DWQ in 2012, in the amount of $2.946 million dollars. The easement was negotiated for a total sum of $8,000 in exchange for the easement. Staff recommends approval of this temporary construction and permanent sanitary sewer easement across the property.
F. Acceptance of a Sanitary Sewer Line Easement for the Property of Russell D. Dellinger and wife, Stacy J. Dellinger described as PIN 3723-15-64-7165. - Staff requests acceptance of a 25 foot temporary construction and 25 foot permanent sanitary sewer line easement for the property of Russell D. Dellinger and wife, Stacy J. Dellinger described as PIN 3723-15-64-7165. This easement is necessary for completion of the Sherwood Forest Subdivision Sanitary Sewer Project. This project was awarded to the City as a State Revolving Grant by NCDENR-DWQ in 2012, in the amount of $2.946 million dollars. The easement was negotiated for a total sum of $2,694 in exchange for the easement. Staff recommends approval of this temporary construction and permanent sanitary sewer easement across the property.
G. Acceptance of a Sanitary Sewer Line Easement for the Property of Chris Albert Bumgarner and wife, Lisa H. Bumgarner described as PIN 3723-11-75-1017. - Staff requests acceptance of a 25 foot temporary construction and 25 foot permanent sanitary sewer line easement for the property of Chris Albert Bumgarner and wife, Lisa H. Bumgarner described as PIN 3723-11-75-1017. This easement is necessary for completion of the Sherwood Forest Subdivision Sanitary Sewer Project. This project was awarded to the City as a State Revolving Grant by NCDENR-DWQ in 2012, in the amount of $2.946 million dollars. The easement was negotiated for a one free sanitary sewer service connection in exchange for the easement. Staff recommends approval of this temporary construction and permanent sanitary sewer easement across the property.
H. Approval of Six Days of Vacation Time as Incentive Prizes for Participation in the Annual United Way Campaign. - The United Way Campaign Committee requests six days of vacation time to be used as prizes for participation in the annual United Way Campaign, which will be held in August
2015. The City is a strong supporter of United Way since they play an important and critical role in our community. We use our campaign to educate the City’s workforce about the various programs and services United Way provides, and also to provide an easy way to make a donation. The opportunity to win some vacation time will provide an incentive for participation and contribute to the success of the campaign.
I. Acceptance of Bid and Award of Construction Contract with Hickory Sand Company, Inc. in the Amount of $154,500 for the Construction of the NC Highway 64-90 Waterline Project. - The NC Highway 64-90 waterline project consist of installing approximately 5,200 – linear foot of new 8-inch PVC waterlines, five new fire hydrants and other customary appurtenances in a previously unserved area. This project is intended to provide improved fire protection for Ellendale Elementary School and provide water service to customers along the line. Staff evaluated the bid packages and found Hickory Sand Company, Inc. to be the lowest responsible bidder. This is proposed to be funded as a component of the Public Utilities Department operating budget in the reimbursable materials line with funds already received from Alexander County Government. Staff recommends Council’s acceptance and award of the project to Hickory Sand Company, Inc. in the amount of $154,500 for the construction of the NC Highway 64-90 waterline project.
J. Approval of Renewal Agreement between the Western Piedmont Council of Governments (WPCOG) and the City of Hickory to Support the Western Piedmont Stormwater Partnership for Phase II Public Education. - The City was issued an NPDES Phase II Stormwater Permit by the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources on July 1, 2005. One of the requirements of the permit in the Public Education and Outreach Minimum Measure is that the City develop and implement a public education and outreach program to raise public awareness on the causes and impacts of stormwater pollution. This renewal agreement is the result of the establishment of a regionally focused and municipally supported Phase II public education and outreach coalition, the Western Piedmont Stormwater Partnership, which is administered by the WPCOG. The activities in this agreement will meet the public education and outreach minimum measures of this section of the NPDES Phase II Permit. This agreement would be for the period July 1, 2015 through June 30, 2016. Payment would be in quarterly installments of $2,758.25. Funding for this agreement is available from the current stormwater budget. Staff recommends Council’s approval of the renewal
agreement with WPCOG for an amount not to exceed $11,033.
K. Approval of a Contract to Kercher Engineering, Inc. in the amount of $57,375 for Pavement Management Study to Prioritize the Condition of Streets in the City of Hickory to better optimize the Resurfacing Schedule and Maintenance Operations.- City Staff requested qualifications from firms, interviewed and selected the most qualified firm to meet the City’s pavement condition needs. The last pavement condition assessment was done in 2007. This condition study is a vital tool that not only rates the streets with a numerical value, but also allows for the Street Department to plan needed maintenance for several years. The benefits of this study will provide the City with an outside professional source to provide data that will give us the tools to provide our citizens with the best use of our resurfacing funds and maximize the results of our street maintenance program. Staff recommends approval of the contract with Kercher Engineering, Inc. in the amount of $57,375.
L. Approval of Awarding the Resurfacing Contract Utilizing Federal Funds to Maymead, Inc. for Asphalt Resurfacing. - Staff prepared formal bid documents for an estimated 2,660 tons of asphalt surface course in-place and 4,000 square yards of asphalt milling. The asphalt binder unit price will be adjusted according to NCDOT standard procedures. All work will be paid on an inplace unit price basis as the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) budget allows. Resurfacing under this contract will be performed in the CDBG eligible funding areas. Maymead, Inc. was the responsible responsive low bidder at the unit price of $52 per ton for S9.5A asphalt surface, $52 per ton for S9.5B asphalt surface, $52 per ton for S4.75A asphalt surface, $595 per ton for binder and $4.75 per square yard for asphalt milling for the pavement resurfacing project. Currently there is $75,000 in the CDBG Public Infrastructure line item. Unbudgeted program income may be added if it becomes available over the FY15-16 year. Staff recommends approval of the resurfacing contract utilizing federal funds be awarded to Maymead, Inc.
M. Approval of Awarding a Contract to J.T. Russell & Sons, Inc. for Asphalt Resurfacing for FY 15/16. - Staff prepared formal bid documents for an estimated 10,650 tons of asphalt surface course in-place and 9,000 square yards of asphalt milling. The asphalt binder unit price will be adjusted according to NCDOT standard procedures. All work will be on an inplace unit price basis as the resurfacing budget allows. J.T. Russell & Sons, Inc. was the responsible responsive low bidder at the unit price of $50.50 per ton for S9.5A asphalt surface, $50 per ton for S9.5B asphalt surface, $56 per ton for S4.75A asphalt surface, $536 per ton for binder and $7 per square yard for asphalt milling for the pavement resurfacing project. Total bid amount of $919,900 ($459,950 for the Fall 2015 schedule and $459,950 for the Spring 2016 schedule). Funds are budgeted in the Street Division’s FY15-16 budget. Staff recommends approval of the resurfacing contract with J.T. Russell & Sons, Inc.
N. Adopt a Resolution to Reaffirm City Council’s Support of the Deidra Lackey Memorial Park Project. - Staff requests Council to consider the Resolution declaring the City’s intent to reaffirm their continued support and approval of the Deidra Lackey Memorial Park Project. The memorial park facilities would be a gift to the City of Hickory and the public. In addition, based on its location the memorial park would serve as an enhanced entry point to the proposed river walk. Council has previously expressed support for the project and the proposed resolution reaffirms Council’s support for the project. Staff recommends Council adopt the Resolution declaring City Council’s intent to reaffirm their continued support and approval of the Deidra Lackey Memorial Park Project.
O. Grant Project Ordinance Amendment Number 1.
1. To budget a $166,000 transfer of Capital Reserve-Appropriated Fund Balance and to budget an additional $664,000 of Federal Revenue to the Falling Creek Bridge Project. NCDOT Agreement ID #3390 Municipal Bridge Agreement-Federal in the amount of $1,200,000 ($960,000 (80%) Federal and $240,000 (20%) Local) was approved by the City of Hickory Council on August 21, 2012. This amendment request makes necessary adjustments to original CPO#1 (FY13) and GPOA (FY15) to align total project revenues and expenditures for the projected project.
P. Budget Ordinance Amendment Number 2.
1. To appropriate $166,000 of Capital Reserve-Fund Balance Appropriated and transfer to the General Capital Project Fund for the Falling Creek Bridge Project. These funds are the required local matching funds for the replacement of Bridge No. 327 located on Falling Creek Road. 2. To appropriate $900,000 of General Fund-Fund Balance Appropriated and budget in the Transportation Fund-Other Professional Services line item. Funds will be used for the AGI Associates LLC and CRA Enterprises Inc. airport settlement.
Public Hearings
1. Consideration of Voluntary Contiguous Annexation of 2.001 Acres Located at 2191 13th Avenue Drive SE. - Burgin-Hickory Properties, LLC submitted a petition for the voluntary contiguous annexation of 2.001 acres of property located at 2191 13th Avenue Drive SE. The annexation area consists of a commercial development site, which is the proposed future location of a Sheetz retail facility. The owners of the property are seeking annexation in order to obtain utility services (water and sewer) for a commercial development site. The property is currently located within the City’s extra-territorial jurisdictional area (ETJ) and is zoned Regional Commercial (C-3). Staff finds the petition to be in conformity with applicable statutes, and recommends approval of the voluntary annexation petition. This public hearing was advertised in a newspaper having general circulation in the Hickory area on July 17, 2015.
2. Consideration of Designating the Whisnant Hosiery Mills Complex as a Local Historic Landmark. - The Whisnant Hosiery Mills complex located at 74 8th Street SE was built in 1929 with significant expansions in 1937 and 1966. The complex serves as a reminder of the pivotal role that the hosiery industry played in the development of the City of Hickory. The property is now known as Moretz Mill and has recently undergone an extensive rehabilitation. The owners of the property have requested that the property be designated as a local historic landmark. The property has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 2013. If the property is designated as a local historic landmark all changes to the exterior of the building and site would need approval from the Hickory Historic Preservation Commission. If designated, there would be a 50 percent deferral on all property taxes provided that property maintains its historic integrity. Staff recommends Council approve the local landmark designation ordinance for the Whisnant Hosiery Mills property. This public hearing was advertised in a newspaper having general circulation in the Hickory area on July 24, 2015.
Departmental Reports
1. Airport Presentation - Settlement Agreement and Release of Claims. - As a result of a recent mediation effort between the City of Hickory and AGI Associates, LLC and CRA Enterprises, LLC, a settlement agreement was reached that gave back to the City of Hickory full control of remaining facilities at the airport that had been in dispute, specifically the leasehold interest of the Moose Hangar as well as other hangars on the property. The City gained $2.1 million in the value of hangars and other assets for $900,000.
2. Information Presentation – Proposed Changes to Chapter 4 (Animal and Fowl) Ordinance. - The City of Hickory approves organizations to use public property to host events for the public. Over the years, citizens and staff have expressed concerns about animals being allowed at these events due to public safety concerns for the citizens and animals attending the event. City Staff to include, Legal, Police, Parks and Recreation, and Branding/Public Information Office have worked together to develop proposed changes to Chapter 4 (Animal and Fowl) Ordinance restricting animals within the “footprint” of the approved special event on public property. These proposed changes are in the interest of protecting the public from potential aggressive animals that could cause harm to a human or another animal, and to ensure the appropriate public health and sanitation of food and surrounding areas. Staff requests City Council’s feedback in order to precede with any changes to Chapter 4 (Animal and Fowl) Ordinance that would restrict animals from approved special events on public property.
3. Update from Bond Implementation Commission on Bond Projects
Tuesday, August 4, 2015
Monday, July 20, 2015
Newsletter about the City Council meeting of July 14, 2015
I began video recording the City Council in 2012, because of my desire
that the City do it on their own as any modern 21st century
community began doing long ago. I had people tell me that they
couldn't make it to the meetings, but they would like to see what
is going on. I was also told by some council members that my
summaries did not truly reflect the record, so having a video/audio
recording cannot be misinterpreted.
So below is the City Council meeting. With each agenda item, you can click on the links and it will take you to that specific point in the meeting. You can always drag the marker on the video display to the point in the broadcast that you are interested in seeing.
***Final Release***
Agenda about the City Council meeting of July 14, 2015
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Hound Notes: Finally finished this 3 weeks late. Needed a break and my batteries still aren't recharged. I will get the August 4, 2015 meeting up in short order. The video on the protocols of how a City Council meeting works was excellent work and the Communications Department deserves kudos on that. Getting the public to participate is an education (not propaganda) process. Netter informed (not propaganda) citizens leads to better buy-in and better buy-in means a happier community. a happier community means a better quality of life. True happiness is self-evident.
I have scaled back out of necessity and self-preservation. A one man checks and balances system in a community is not sustainable. I'm not going anywhere as long as I'm here, but I'm also not going to put my personal life on the backburner. You know, I've led the damned horse to the water how many times?
Anyway, all of this process has taught me a lot more about people that I care to admit. I think back to what I thought a decade ago, before I went down into this rabbit hole, and the few times I watch any Idiot Television, I am ashamed about the time I wasted allowing myself to be programmed by a system that worked against my best interests. Television has zero to do with information. It really isn't about entertainment. The entertainment (bells and whistles) is just part of the programming. The narrative is the heart of the program... Think about that. Peace! see you on the other side.
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Special Presentations
A. Recognition of Retiring Boards and Commissions Members
B. Educational Video by Office of Communications - Dana Kaminske presented an instructional video to Council that showed the protocols of how City Council meetings operate.
Persons Requesting to be Heard
Mr. Mark Faruque, requested City Council indefinitely postpone approval of the plan to construct a secondary parking lot for Glenn Hilton Park on the property contiguous to his home located on 6th Street NW. He believed there had been a serous lack of communication by the parties involved and felt that up until the past few days the City had shown little concern or sensitivity for the negative impact that this parking lot might have on the value and privacy of their 22 year old home. He stated that on or about June 14, 2014 he arrived home from work to find an aerial picture of the lot with a hand written note to the effect “proposed parking lot, call with any questions”. He called and left a message but neither he nor his wife were contacted that day. The following evening they arrived home from work and were shocked to see that the lot had already been cleared. They saw some men surveying the lot at that time. He commented that it was obvious that the clearing was well beyond the marking stakes. They were surprised to find out last week that some of the Council members were completely unaware that approximately 2,000 square feet of their property had been cleared at that time. He advised that they had been told that the lack of direct communication from the City was in large part due to the fact that they had hired an attorney from Charlotte immediately after the lot was cleared. Once attorneys are involved correspondence usually occurs through them. They did not hire an attorney to sue the City of Hickory, but when they saw what had transpired without any forewarning they felt that they had to get legal advice on what the local laws were, and what their rights were as property owners. They did not have any idea that it was within the City’s right to construct a parking lot on a piece of land designated as residential... Much has happened to bring everyone to the table this past week and it is still their desire to work with the City to find a resolution that is satisfactory to everyone.
Consent Agenda
- Council unanimously consented to the Consent Agenda.
Informational Items
A. Proposed Technical Amendments to Blue Bloodhound, LP Economic Development Agreement.
B. Report of City Manager Mick Berry’s travel to North Carolina City County Managers Seminar, Wilmington, North Carolina, June 18–21, 2015. (Lodging - $127.44; Meals $51.00; Registration - $250; Mileage - $348.45; Tips for Parking - $12.00)
Departmental Reports:
1. Second Reading of Budget Ordinance Amendment Number 20. - Assistant City Manager Rodney Miller presented information to the Council - To appropriate Tourism Development Authority (TDA) revenue to repay debt on new parking deck in FY2014-15 budget. The City entered into an agreement with the Tourism Development Authority (TDA) in August 2014 to build a parking deck to accommodate visitors to the convention center. The City secured a $3 million loan with BB&T for a term of 15 years at 2.94% with an increase in TDA rental payments pledged to repay the debt. The first debt payment came due in April 2015, yet an appropriation of the rental payments was not established in the FY2014-15 budget. The attached Budget ordinance Amendment appropriates the additional revenue that has been received from the TDA as a result of their increase in rental payments...
2. Approval to Purchase .890 Acres Located at 1352 12th Avenue NE, Hickory, PIN 3713-14-43-2647 in the amount of $100,000.
3. Presentation of Crafting Hickory Logo - Mandy Pitts Presentation - Hickory Inc. contracted with
North Star Destination Strategies who helped develop “Life Well Crafted” which is almost four years old. "The brand" continues to be strong as it has been tested in different markets and they have feedback from people that have invested in Hickory and people that have visited Hickory... This is an initiative under the Life Well Crafted brand. They met with the Chairs of the Bond Committee and they narrowed down the logos to two. She showed renderings of two options... Mayor Wright moved, seconded by Alderwoman Patton approval of the Crafting Hickory logo option number one. Vote: Ayes: Alderman Lail, Alderman Seaver, Alderman Zagaroli, and Alderwoman Patton. Nays: Alderman Meisner, Alderman Guess and Mayor Wright. The motion carried.
Matters Not on Agenda (requires majority vote of Council to consider)
Ms. Delores Hammer requested to speak to Council regarding the addition of more bus lines if the housing project was in an area where there were no bus lines. Mayor Wright advised Ms. Hammer that she would need to speak at the next meeting. He explained the process. There is no requirement to sign - in to speak, but he had asked if anyone else wished to speak to Council earlier in the meeting.
General Comments
Mayor Wright congratulated City Manager Mick Berry on becoming a grandfather.
Alderwoman Patton requested an update from Staff regarding data from the recycling program.
City Manager Mick Berry advised that Staff would do that in a few months, which would give citizens time to get used to the recycling program.
Alderwoman Patton commented that it would be nice if there was pickup for recycling every week
and trash pickup every other week.
Mayor Wright mentioned that Alderman Guess, Alderman Zagaroli, Assistant City Manager Andrea
Surratt, City Manager Mick Berry and himself would be going to Washington on Thursday to lobby
for the 22 million dollar TIGER grant that the City is well entitled to. They will be speaking with the
City’s Representatives and Senators to ask for their assistance in obtaining the grant. He commented think what that could do on top of what we have already accumulated through tax credits, grants, donations, private investments and 40 million dollar bond issuance. What could be done for Hickory with another 22 million dollars?
Mr. Berry introduced interns: Will Sigmon, an ASU student; Bradley Setzer, interning in the Legal
Department, a Wake Forest University student in his third year of law school; Paul Wood, a St.
Stephens High School rising senior; Melissa Loveless interning in the Communications Department, she attended Western Carolina University.
Mr. Berry introduced the new Library Director, Ms. Sarah Greene. She previously served as Library Director in Caldwell County.
City Attorney John Crone requested Council go into closed session to discuss settlement of
two matters of litigation concerning the airport: regarding what is known as the Moose Hangar at the
airport. Council was aware that a mediation had taken place that was very lengthy. Mr. Crone
advised that he had a proposed settlement agreement and resolution for discussion in closed session. He requested Council return to open session and consider approval of the terms of settlement and the resolution that approved the terms of settlement. Mayor Wright moved seconded by Alderman Seaver to go into closed session to consult with the attorneys on the items requested by City Attorney John Crone. The motion carried unanimously.Mayor Wright announced that he moved seconded by Alderman Seaver and the motion carried unanimously.
Council Reconvened on Closed Session Matter
Council convened to closed session at approximately 7:54 p.m. Alderman Lail excused himself from the meeting at that time.Council reconvened to open session at approximately 8:21 p.m. City Attorney John Crone requested Council approve a Resolution authorizing the settlement of disputed issues between the City of Hickory and AGI Associates LLC, and CRA Enterprises LLC, concerning the Hickory Regional Airport. The Resolution included terms of settlement that were negotiated by the City of Hickory and the other opposing parties on July 13th during a 12 hour mediation in Charlotte. Mr. Crone had reviewed the documents with Council in closed session. The terms of the settlement agreement were attached to the Resolution. Mr. Crone requested a motion to approve. Alderman Zagaroli moved seconded by Alderwoman Patton approval of the Resolution and the attached settlement agreement. The motion carried unanimously.
So below is the City Council meeting. With each agenda item, you can click on the links and it will take you to that specific point in the meeting. You can always drag the marker on the video display to the point in the broadcast that you are interested in seeing.
***Final Release***
Agenda about the City Council meeting of July 14, 2015
==================================================
Hound Notes: Finally finished this 3 weeks late. Needed a break and my batteries still aren't recharged. I will get the August 4, 2015 meeting up in short order. The video on the protocols of how a City Council meeting works was excellent work and the Communications Department deserves kudos on that. Getting the public to participate is an education (not propaganda) process. Netter informed (not propaganda) citizens leads to better buy-in and better buy-in means a happier community. a happier community means a better quality of life. True happiness is self-evident.
I have scaled back out of necessity and self-preservation. A one man checks and balances system in a community is not sustainable. I'm not going anywhere as long as I'm here, but I'm also not going to put my personal life on the backburner. You know, I've led the damned horse to the water how many times?
Anyway, all of this process has taught me a lot more about people that I care to admit. I think back to what I thought a decade ago, before I went down into this rabbit hole, and the few times I watch any Idiot Television, I am ashamed about the time I wasted allowing myself to be programmed by a system that worked against my best interests. Television has zero to do with information. It really isn't about entertainment. The entertainment (bells and whistles) is just part of the programming. The narrative is the heart of the program... Think about that. Peace! see you on the other side.
==================================================
Special Presentations
A. Recognition of Retiring Boards and Commissions Members
Business Development Committee - Jeff Neuville, Dave Gissy, Dave Paist,Citizens Advisory Committee - Michael Holland
Community Appearance Commission - Steven Bowman
Community Relations Council - Neal Orgain, Ray Cerda
Historic Preservation Commission - Christopher Wilson, Thomas Dobbins
Library Advisory Board - Kathy Ivey
Parks and Recreation Commission - Bee Yang, Tony Wood
Public Art Commission - Thomas McBrayer
Public Housing Authority - Clement Geitner,
Recycling Advisory Board - J.C. Epting Jr
University City Commission - Bill McBrayer
Youth Council - Joseph Butler, Kathryn McKenna Shaver, Laura Velazquez, Darion Best, Jordan Hatch, Zackariah Amrani, Marina Pitofsky, Jamen Beck.
B. Educational Video by Office of Communications - Dana Kaminske presented an instructional video to Council that showed the protocols of how City Council meetings operate.
Persons Requesting to be Heard
Mr. Mark Faruque, requested City Council indefinitely postpone approval of the plan to construct a secondary parking lot for Glenn Hilton Park on the property contiguous to his home located on 6th Street NW. He believed there had been a serous lack of communication by the parties involved and felt that up until the past few days the City had shown little concern or sensitivity for the negative impact that this parking lot might have on the value and privacy of their 22 year old home. He stated that on or about June 14, 2014 he arrived home from work to find an aerial picture of the lot with a hand written note to the effect “proposed parking lot, call with any questions”. He called and left a message but neither he nor his wife were contacted that day. The following evening they arrived home from work and were shocked to see that the lot had already been cleared. They saw some men surveying the lot at that time. He commented that it was obvious that the clearing was well beyond the marking stakes. They were surprised to find out last week that some of the Council members were completely unaware that approximately 2,000 square feet of their property had been cleared at that time. He advised that they had been told that the lack of direct communication from the City was in large part due to the fact that they had hired an attorney from Charlotte immediately after the lot was cleared. Once attorneys are involved correspondence usually occurs through them. They did not hire an attorney to sue the City of Hickory, but when they saw what had transpired without any forewarning they felt that they had to get legal advice on what the local laws were, and what their rights were as property owners. They did not have any idea that it was within the City’s right to construct a parking lot on a piece of land designated as residential... Much has happened to bring everyone to the table this past week and it is still their desire to work with the City to find a resolution that is satisfactory to everyone.
Consent Agenda
- Council unanimously consented to the Consent Agenda.
Informational Items
A. Proposed Technical Amendments to Blue Bloodhound, LP Economic Development Agreement.
B. Report of City Manager Mick Berry’s travel to North Carolina City County Managers Seminar, Wilmington, North Carolina, June 18–21, 2015. (Lodging - $127.44; Meals $51.00; Registration - $250; Mileage - $348.45; Tips for Parking - $12.00)
Departmental Reports:
1. Second Reading of Budget Ordinance Amendment Number 20. - Assistant City Manager Rodney Miller presented information to the Council - To appropriate Tourism Development Authority (TDA) revenue to repay debt on new parking deck in FY2014-15 budget. The City entered into an agreement with the Tourism Development Authority (TDA) in August 2014 to build a parking deck to accommodate visitors to the convention center. The City secured a $3 million loan with BB&T for a term of 15 years at 2.94% with an increase in TDA rental payments pledged to repay the debt. The first debt payment came due in April 2015, yet an appropriation of the rental payments was not established in the FY2014-15 budget. The attached Budget ordinance Amendment appropriates the additional revenue that has been received from the TDA as a result of their increase in rental payments...
2. Approval to Purchase .890 Acres Located at 1352 12th Avenue NE, Hickory, PIN 3713-14-43-2647 in the amount of $100,000.
3. Presentation of Crafting Hickory Logo - Mandy Pitts Presentation - Hickory Inc. contracted with
North Star Destination Strategies who helped develop “Life Well Crafted” which is almost four years old. "The brand" continues to be strong as it has been tested in different markets and they have feedback from people that have invested in Hickory and people that have visited Hickory... This is an initiative under the Life Well Crafted brand. They met with the Chairs of the Bond Committee and they narrowed down the logos to two. She showed renderings of two options... Mayor Wright moved, seconded by Alderwoman Patton approval of the Crafting Hickory logo option number one. Vote: Ayes: Alderman Lail, Alderman Seaver, Alderman Zagaroli, and Alderwoman Patton. Nays: Alderman Meisner, Alderman Guess and Mayor Wright. The motion carried.
Matters Not on Agenda (requires majority vote of Council to consider)
Ms. Delores Hammer requested to speak to Council regarding the addition of more bus lines if the housing project was in an area where there were no bus lines. Mayor Wright advised Ms. Hammer that she would need to speak at the next meeting. He explained the process. There is no requirement to sign - in to speak, but he had asked if anyone else wished to speak to Council earlier in the meeting.
General Comments
Mayor Wright congratulated City Manager Mick Berry on becoming a grandfather.
Alderwoman Patton requested an update from Staff regarding data from the recycling program.
City Manager Mick Berry advised that Staff would do that in a few months, which would give citizens time to get used to the recycling program.
Alderwoman Patton commented that it would be nice if there was pickup for recycling every week
and trash pickup every other week.
Mayor Wright mentioned that Alderman Guess, Alderman Zagaroli, Assistant City Manager Andrea
Surratt, City Manager Mick Berry and himself would be going to Washington on Thursday to lobby
for the 22 million dollar TIGER grant that the City is well entitled to. They will be speaking with the
City’s Representatives and Senators to ask for their assistance in obtaining the grant. He commented think what that could do on top of what we have already accumulated through tax credits, grants, donations, private investments and 40 million dollar bond issuance. What could be done for Hickory with another 22 million dollars?
Mr. Berry introduced interns: Will Sigmon, an ASU student; Bradley Setzer, interning in the Legal
Department, a Wake Forest University student in his third year of law school; Paul Wood, a St.
Stephens High School rising senior; Melissa Loveless interning in the Communications Department, she attended Western Carolina University.
Mr. Berry introduced the new Library Director, Ms. Sarah Greene. She previously served as Library Director in Caldwell County.
City Attorney John Crone requested Council go into closed session to discuss settlement of
two matters of litigation concerning the airport: regarding what is known as the Moose Hangar at the
airport. Council was aware that a mediation had taken place that was very lengthy. Mr. Crone
advised that he had a proposed settlement agreement and resolution for discussion in closed session. He requested Council return to open session and consider approval of the terms of settlement and the resolution that approved the terms of settlement. Mayor Wright moved seconded by Alderman Seaver to go into closed session to consult with the attorneys on the items requested by City Attorney John Crone. The motion carried unanimously.Mayor Wright announced that he moved seconded by Alderman Seaver and the motion carried unanimously.
Council Reconvened on Closed Session Matter
Council convened to closed session at approximately 7:54 p.m. Alderman Lail excused himself from the meeting at that time.Council reconvened to open session at approximately 8:21 p.m. City Attorney John Crone requested Council approve a Resolution authorizing the settlement of disputed issues between the City of Hickory and AGI Associates LLC, and CRA Enterprises LLC, concerning the Hickory Regional Airport. The Resolution included terms of settlement that were negotiated by the City of Hickory and the other opposing parties on July 13th during a 12 hour mediation in Charlotte. Mr. Crone had reviewed the documents with Council in closed session. The terms of the settlement agreement were attached to the Resolution. Mr. Crone requested a motion to approve. Alderman Zagaroli moved seconded by Alderwoman Patton approval of the Resolution and the attached settlement agreement. The motion carried unanimously.
Tuesday, July 14, 2015
Agenda about the City Council meeting of July 14, 2015
This Agenda is about the Hickory City Council meeting that took place on
the date listed above. City council meetings are held on the first
and third Tuesdays of each Month in the Council Chambers of the Julian
Whitener building.
At right of this page under Main Information links is an Hickory's City Website link. If you click on that link, it takes you to our city’s website/ The City's website evolves over time, but currently towrds the top right there is a Link called Quick Links. Click that on and look for the Agenda's and Minutes link you need to click. Scroll down from there and this will show you a list of PDF files to upcoming and previous meetings.
Agendas show what is on the docket for the meeting of that date. The Minutes is an actual summary of the proceedings of the meeting of that date. You can also look in the upper right hand corner of the front page of the Hickory Hound and (will soon) find the link to the past history of Hickory City Newsletters.
Here is a summary of the agenda of the meeting. There were a couple of important items that were discussed at this meeting and the details are listed further below:
Please remember that pressing Ctrl and + will magnify the text and page and pressing Ctrl and - will make the text and page smaller. This will help the readability for those with smaller screens and/or eye difficulties.
=================================================
Hound Notes: Not much to see here
=================================================
Invocation by Elder Kemp, Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter Day Saints
Special Presentations
A. Recognition of Retiring Boards and Commissions Members
Consent Agenda:
A. Call for Public Hearing for Consideration of Voluntary Contiguous Annexation of 2.001 acres Located at 2191 13th Avenue Drive SE. (Authorize Public Hearing for August 4, 2015)
B. Call for Public Hearing for Consideration of Designating the Whisnant Hosiery Mills Complex as a Local Historic Landmark. (Authorize Public Hearing for August 4, 2015)
C. Renewal of Taxicab and Other Passenger Vehicles for Hire Franchises.
Company - Taxicabs - Passenger Vehicle for Hire
Mile High Enterprises (dba The Hickory Hop) - 0 - 5
Yellow Cab - 13 - 1
Diamond Cab of Hickory - 3 - 0
Hickory Limousine - 0 - 3
Platinum Limousine LLC - 0 - 3
Total - 16 - 12
Annually, these companies apply for a renewal of their Certificate of Convenience and
Necessity for the operation of taxicabs and other vehicles for hire.
D. Approval of a Cemetery Deed from City of Hickory to Jacqueline E. Connor, (Southside Cemetery, Plot 4B, Lot Number 9 and 10, Section 4) (Prepared by Deputy City Attorney Arnita Dula).
E. Approval of the Transfer of a Cemetery Deed from Daniel C. Dillon and wife, Catherine H. Dillon to Sherry Lynn Pruitt, (Oakwood Cemetery, Section)
F. Approval of the Transfer of a Cemetery Deed from Peggy F. Flowers, Widow of John R. Flowers and the Estate of David S. Flowers to Peggy F. Flowers, (Oakwood Cemetery)
G. Approval of the Transfer of a Cemetery Deed from Peggy F. Flowers, Widow of John R.
Flowers and the Estate of David S. Flowers to Peggy Flowers, (Oakwood Cemetery)
H. Approval to Purchase a CAD, RMS and Message Switch Server from OSSI in the Amount of $123,419. - Hickory Police Department requests approval to purchase a CAD, RMS and Message
Switch Server in the amount of $123,419 from OSSI. The CAD, RMS and Message Switch Server will allow Hickory Policy Department to receive calls from citizens, dispatch those calls to the officers, allow officers to write the necessary reports and submit the reports using the message switch. This purchase is a sole source as OSSI is the police department’s current vendor of this product and switching vendors would be cost prohibitive. Funds were approved in the FY2015-2016 budget.
I. Adoption of the Amended Memorandum of Understanding regarding the Greater Hickory Metropolitan Organization for Alexander, Burke, Caldwell and Catawba Counties. - On May 27, 2015 the Greater Hickory Metropolitan Planning Organization Technical Advisory Committee approved the amended Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). Several changes were made to the MOU with the most important involving the MPO officially accepting the Unifour RPO into the MPO’s planning boundary (all four counties). Due to the significance of this action, the MPO member municipalities must approve the amended MOU by resolution. Staff requests approval of adoption of the amended Memorandum of Understanding regarding the Greater Hickory Metropolitan Organization for Alexander, Burke, Caldwell and Catawba Counties.
J. Budget Ordinance Amendment Number 20.
1. To appropriate Tourism Development Authority (TDA) revenue to repay debt on new parking deck in FY2014-15 budget. The City entered into an agreement with the Tourism Development Authority (TDA) in August 2014 to build a parking deck to accommodate visitors to the convention center. The City secured a $3 million loan with BB&T for a term of 15 years at 2.94% with an increase in TDA rental payments pledged to repay the debt. The first debt payment came due in April 2015, yet an appropriation of the rental payments was not established in the FY2014-15 budget. The attached Budget Ordinance Amendment appropriates the additional revenue that has been received from the TDA as a result of their increase in rental payments.
K. Budget Ordinance Amendment Number 1.
1. To increase General Government-Other Professional Services by $146,200 and decrease Other Financing Uses-Transfer to the Solid Waste Fund by $146,200. This amendment is necessary to correct the original annual budget ordinance due to a change in the Solid Waste fee (from $1 to $2) to a total of $18.50.
2. To appropriate $100 of General Fund Balance and budget in the Library Books line item. Donation from the Hickory Woman's Club in honor of Tamara Faulkner, Paralibrarian of the Year 2015 was received towards the end of the fiscal year and therefore rolled into General Fund Balance. Funds are now appropriated to the Library expenditure line item.
3. To appropriate $73,504 of General Fund Balance and budget in the Library Books line item ($1,160) and Departmental Supplies ($72,344). Donations for the Astronomy purchases were unable to be spent prior to the end of the fiscal year; therefore an appropriation from General Balance is necessary.
4. To budget a $1,366 insurance claim payment from Geico Insurance Company in the Traffic division signs and posts line item. This payment is for damage sustained to a street sign on 03-22-15; however the check was dated 07-02-15 and deposited on 07-06-15.
5. To appropriate $12,180 of General Fund Balance and budget in the Police Departments Contracted Services line item. This amendment is necessary to pay for Smith Rogers PLLC Attorneys at Law for annual legal support. These funds are from State Unauthorized Tax money and are received and reside in General Fund Balance until the time of appropriation for specific uses under the State guidelines.
6. To appropriate $242,814 of Water and Sewer Fund Balance and budget in the Water and Sewer Reimbursable Materials line item. City received two checks from Alexander County for two waterline projects in June and funds rolled into W&S Fund Balance at year end. Once funding is received City Staff solicits bids to complete the project. Therefore an appropriation is necessary to budget funds in the new fiscal year.
L. Special Events Activities Application, Mel’s Jingle Run (Benefitting Operation 300 & PORCH), Sarah Prencipe (Op300 Volunteer), Leslie Knapp (Mellow Mushroom), and Mandy Pitts (PORCH Volunteer), Operation 300, PORCH, and Mellow Mushroom (Peace-A-Pie Makers, LLC), December 12, 2015, Sails on the Square Stage and 5K Route, 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Informational Item
A. Proposed Technical Amendments to Blue Bloodhound, LP Economic Development Agreement. In review of the final agreements with Blue Bloodhound, LP, it was determined the intended three year improvement period was incorrectly defined to end 12/31/2017. The unintended effects of this error are reflected in some additional provisions of the agreement. Documentation for the State of North Carolina One NC grant award, for which these grants are being used as a match, allow 36 months for investments and job creation beginning 6/23/2015. Scott Millar, Catawba EDC President, requested mirroring the State filings in his presentation to the Board. Carrying the technical correction throughout the document include extending the initial date of 12/31/2017 to June 23, 2018 in the following provisions:
1) Second Whereas, in the date defining the Improvement Period
2) Paragraph 1.1
3) Paragraph 5.
4) The Chart in Paragraph 7.c. and text in 7.e, and
5) Exhibit A., section (b).
B. Report of City Manager Mick Berry’s travel to North Carolina City County Managers Seminar, Wilmington, North Carolina, June 18 – 21, 2015. (Lodging - $127.44; Meals - $51.00; Registration - $250; Mileage - $348.45; Tips for Parking - $12.00)
New Business - Departmental Reports:
1. Second Reading of Budget Ordinance Amendment Number 20. - To appropriate Tourism Development Authority (TDA) revenue to repay debt on new parking deck in FY2014-15 budget. The City entered into an agreement with the Tourism Development Authority (TDA) in August 2014 to build a parking deck to accommodate visitors to the convention center. The City secured a $3 million loan with BB&T for a term of 15 years at 2.94% with an increase in TDA rental payments pledged to repay the debt. The first debt payment came due in April 2015, yet an appropriation of the rental payments was not established in the FY2014-15 budget. The attached Budget Ordinance Amendment appropriates the additional revenue that has been received from the TDA as a result of their increase in rental payments.
2. Approval to Purchase .890 Acres Located at 1352 12th Avenue NE, Hickory, PIN 3713-14-43-2647 in the amount of $100,000.- Staff requests approval to purchase .890 acres next to the existing Public Services Complex. The property owner, Ms. Katie Childers, approached the City about purchasing this parcel located at 1352 12th Avenue NE, PIN 3713-14-43-2647. The City owns the property to the south and east. The purchase of this property would close out the northwest corner of the public services property. There is an old skating rink structure on the property that would be of no use to the City. The estimated cost to demolish the structure would be approximately $9,000 - $10,000, and would eliminate an eyesore in the neighborhood. Also on the property is a metal building that is approximately ten years old, which could be utilized by Public Services. A budget amendment was previously approved by City Council for the purchase of the property. Staff recommends approval of the purchase of the property in the amount of $100,000 and approval of the demolition of the old skating rink building located on the property.
3. Presentation of Crafting Hickory Logo
At right of this page under Main Information links is an Hickory's City Website link. If you click on that link, it takes you to our city’s website/ The City's website evolves over time, but currently towrds the top right there is a Link called Quick Links. Click that on and look for the Agenda's and Minutes link you need to click. Scroll down from there and this will show you a list of PDF files to upcoming and previous meetings.
Agendas show what is on the docket for the meeting of that date. The Minutes is an actual summary of the proceedings of the meeting of that date. You can also look in the upper right hand corner of the front page of the Hickory Hound and (will soon) find the link to the past history of Hickory City Newsletters.
Here is a summary of the agenda of the meeting. There were a couple of important items that were discussed at this meeting and the details are listed further below:
Please remember that pressing Ctrl and + will magnify the text and page and pressing Ctrl and - will make the text and page smaller. This will help the readability for those with smaller screens and/or eye difficulties.
=================================================
Hound Notes: Not much to see here
=================================================
Invocation by Elder Kemp, Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter Day Saints
Special Presentations
A. Recognition of Retiring Boards and Commissions Members
Jeff Neuville Business Development Committee
Dave Gissy Business Development Committee
Dave Paist Business Development Committee
Michael Holland Citizens Advisory Committee
Steven Bowman Community Appearance Commission
Neal Orgain Community Relations Council
Ray Cerda Community Relations Council
Christopher Wilson Historic Preservation Commission
Thomas Dobbins Historic Preservation Commission
Kathy Ivey Library Advisory Board
Bee Yang Parks and Recreation Commission
Michael (Tony) Wood Parks and Recreation Commission
Thomas McBrayer Public Art Commission
Clement Geitner Public Housing Authority
J.C. Epting Jr. Recycling Advisory Board
Bill McBrayer University City Commission
Joseph Butler Youth Council
Kathryn McKenna Shaver Youth Council
Laura Velazquez Youth Council
Darion Best Youth Council
Jordan Hatch Youth Council
Zackariah Amrani Youth Council
Marina Pitofsky Youth Council
Jamen Beck Youth Council
B. Educational Video by Office of Communications
Consent Agenda:
A. Call for Public Hearing for Consideration of Voluntary Contiguous Annexation of 2.001 acres Located at 2191 13th Avenue Drive SE. (Authorize Public Hearing for August 4, 2015)
B. Call for Public Hearing for Consideration of Designating the Whisnant Hosiery Mills Complex as a Local Historic Landmark. (Authorize Public Hearing for August 4, 2015)
C. Renewal of Taxicab and Other Passenger Vehicles for Hire Franchises.
Company - Taxicabs - Passenger Vehicle for Hire
Mile High Enterprises (dba The Hickory Hop) - 0 - 5
Yellow Cab - 13 - 1
Diamond Cab of Hickory - 3 - 0
Hickory Limousine - 0 - 3
Platinum Limousine LLC - 0 - 3
Total - 16 - 12
Annually, these companies apply for a renewal of their Certificate of Convenience and
Necessity for the operation of taxicabs and other vehicles for hire.
D. Approval of a Cemetery Deed from City of Hickory to Jacqueline E. Connor, (Southside Cemetery, Plot 4B, Lot Number 9 and 10, Section 4) (Prepared by Deputy City Attorney Arnita Dula).
E. Approval of the Transfer of a Cemetery Deed from Daniel C. Dillon and wife, Catherine H. Dillon to Sherry Lynn Pruitt, (Oakwood Cemetery, Section)
F. Approval of the Transfer of a Cemetery Deed from Peggy F. Flowers, Widow of John R. Flowers and the Estate of David S. Flowers to Peggy F. Flowers, (Oakwood Cemetery)
G. Approval of the Transfer of a Cemetery Deed from Peggy F. Flowers, Widow of John R.
Flowers and the Estate of David S. Flowers to Peggy Flowers, (Oakwood Cemetery)
H. Approval to Purchase a CAD, RMS and Message Switch Server from OSSI in the Amount of $123,419. - Hickory Police Department requests approval to purchase a CAD, RMS and Message
Switch Server in the amount of $123,419 from OSSI. The CAD, RMS and Message Switch Server will allow Hickory Policy Department to receive calls from citizens, dispatch those calls to the officers, allow officers to write the necessary reports and submit the reports using the message switch. This purchase is a sole source as OSSI is the police department’s current vendor of this product and switching vendors would be cost prohibitive. Funds were approved in the FY2015-2016 budget.
I. Adoption of the Amended Memorandum of Understanding regarding the Greater Hickory Metropolitan Organization for Alexander, Burke, Caldwell and Catawba Counties. - On May 27, 2015 the Greater Hickory Metropolitan Planning Organization Technical Advisory Committee approved the amended Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). Several changes were made to the MOU with the most important involving the MPO officially accepting the Unifour RPO into the MPO’s planning boundary (all four counties). Due to the significance of this action, the MPO member municipalities must approve the amended MOU by resolution. Staff requests approval of adoption of the amended Memorandum of Understanding regarding the Greater Hickory Metropolitan Organization for Alexander, Burke, Caldwell and Catawba Counties.
J. Budget Ordinance Amendment Number 20.
1. To appropriate Tourism Development Authority (TDA) revenue to repay debt on new parking deck in FY2014-15 budget. The City entered into an agreement with the Tourism Development Authority (TDA) in August 2014 to build a parking deck to accommodate visitors to the convention center. The City secured a $3 million loan with BB&T for a term of 15 years at 2.94% with an increase in TDA rental payments pledged to repay the debt. The first debt payment came due in April 2015, yet an appropriation of the rental payments was not established in the FY2014-15 budget. The attached Budget Ordinance Amendment appropriates the additional revenue that has been received from the TDA as a result of their increase in rental payments.
K. Budget Ordinance Amendment Number 1.
1. To increase General Government-Other Professional Services by $146,200 and decrease Other Financing Uses-Transfer to the Solid Waste Fund by $146,200. This amendment is necessary to correct the original annual budget ordinance due to a change in the Solid Waste fee (from $1 to $2) to a total of $18.50.
2. To appropriate $100 of General Fund Balance and budget in the Library Books line item. Donation from the Hickory Woman's Club in honor of Tamara Faulkner, Paralibrarian of the Year 2015 was received towards the end of the fiscal year and therefore rolled into General Fund Balance. Funds are now appropriated to the Library expenditure line item.
3. To appropriate $73,504 of General Fund Balance and budget in the Library Books line item ($1,160) and Departmental Supplies ($72,344). Donations for the Astronomy purchases were unable to be spent prior to the end of the fiscal year; therefore an appropriation from General Balance is necessary.
4. To budget a $1,366 insurance claim payment from Geico Insurance Company in the Traffic division signs and posts line item. This payment is for damage sustained to a street sign on 03-22-15; however the check was dated 07-02-15 and deposited on 07-06-15.
5. To appropriate $12,180 of General Fund Balance and budget in the Police Departments Contracted Services line item. This amendment is necessary to pay for Smith Rogers PLLC Attorneys at Law for annual legal support. These funds are from State Unauthorized Tax money and are received and reside in General Fund Balance until the time of appropriation for specific uses under the State guidelines.
6. To appropriate $242,814 of Water and Sewer Fund Balance and budget in the Water and Sewer Reimbursable Materials line item. City received two checks from Alexander County for two waterline projects in June and funds rolled into W&S Fund Balance at year end. Once funding is received City Staff solicits bids to complete the project. Therefore an appropriation is necessary to budget funds in the new fiscal year.
L. Special Events Activities Application, Mel’s Jingle Run (Benefitting Operation 300 & PORCH), Sarah Prencipe (Op300 Volunteer), Leslie Knapp (Mellow Mushroom), and Mandy Pitts (PORCH Volunteer), Operation 300, PORCH, and Mellow Mushroom (Peace-A-Pie Makers, LLC), December 12, 2015, Sails on the Square Stage and 5K Route, 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Informational Item
A. Proposed Technical Amendments to Blue Bloodhound, LP Economic Development Agreement. In review of the final agreements with Blue Bloodhound, LP, it was determined the intended three year improvement period was incorrectly defined to end 12/31/2017. The unintended effects of this error are reflected in some additional provisions of the agreement. Documentation for the State of North Carolina One NC grant award, for which these grants are being used as a match, allow 36 months for investments and job creation beginning 6/23/2015. Scott Millar, Catawba EDC President, requested mirroring the State filings in his presentation to the Board. Carrying the technical correction throughout the document include extending the initial date of 12/31/2017 to June 23, 2018 in the following provisions:
1) Second Whereas, in the date defining the Improvement Period
2) Paragraph 1.1
3) Paragraph 5.
4) The Chart in Paragraph 7.c. and text in 7.e, and
5) Exhibit A., section (b).
B. Report of City Manager Mick Berry’s travel to North Carolina City County Managers Seminar, Wilmington, North Carolina, June 18 – 21, 2015. (Lodging - $127.44; Meals - $51.00; Registration - $250; Mileage - $348.45; Tips for Parking - $12.00)
New Business - Departmental Reports:
1. Second Reading of Budget Ordinance Amendment Number 20. - To appropriate Tourism Development Authority (TDA) revenue to repay debt on new parking deck in FY2014-15 budget. The City entered into an agreement with the Tourism Development Authority (TDA) in August 2014 to build a parking deck to accommodate visitors to the convention center. The City secured a $3 million loan with BB&T for a term of 15 years at 2.94% with an increase in TDA rental payments pledged to repay the debt. The first debt payment came due in April 2015, yet an appropriation of the rental payments was not established in the FY2014-15 budget. The attached Budget Ordinance Amendment appropriates the additional revenue that has been received from the TDA as a result of their increase in rental payments.
2. Approval to Purchase .890 Acres Located at 1352 12th Avenue NE, Hickory, PIN 3713-14-43-2647 in the amount of $100,000.- Staff requests approval to purchase .890 acres next to the existing Public Services Complex. The property owner, Ms. Katie Childers, approached the City about purchasing this parcel located at 1352 12th Avenue NE, PIN 3713-14-43-2647. The City owns the property to the south and east. The purchase of this property would close out the northwest corner of the public services property. There is an old skating rink structure on the property that would be of no use to the City. The estimated cost to demolish the structure would be approximately $9,000 - $10,000, and would eliminate an eyesore in the neighborhood. Also on the property is a metal building that is approximately ten years old, which could be utilized by Public Services. A budget amendment was previously approved by City Council for the purchase of the property. Staff recommends approval of the purchase of the property in the amount of $100,000 and approval of the demolition of the old skating rink building located on the property.
3. Presentation of Crafting Hickory Logo
Thursday, July 9, 2015
Remembrance 7+8=15
I'm to the point where I've lived half of my life. You can't take the days for granted anymore, because they become less and less guaranteed as time goes by. I wish others could understand that. Don't waste time. God does not want us to be patient. God wants us to get it done.
The markets are imploding. When one looks at reality, one sees that we have seen nearly eight years of negative growth in the economy. It's getting harder and harder to hide unless you are the willing victim of Stockholm syndrome. Da Chickens comin' home to roost.
Harry Dent interview on Alex Jones - (The Tyrannical Rexes may not like Alex Jones. I don't really care. Here is Harry Dent on the trouble ahead).
Carl Denninger interviewed by Greg Hunter (USA Watchdog) - July 7, 2015 - Debt Going to Explode in our Face
Catherine Austin Fitts interviewed by Greg Hunter (USA Watchdog) - Interview from earlier in the year - 2015 Forecast Volatile & Violent
The markets are imploding. When one looks at reality, one sees that we have seen nearly eight years of negative growth in the economy. It's getting harder and harder to hide unless you are the willing victim of Stockholm syndrome. Da Chickens comin' home to roost.
Harry Dent interview on Alex Jones - (The Tyrannical Rexes may not like Alex Jones. I don't really care. Here is Harry Dent on the trouble ahead).
Carl Denninger interviewed by Greg Hunter (USA Watchdog) - July 7, 2015 - Debt Going to Explode in our Face
Catherine Austin Fitts interviewed by Greg Hunter (USA Watchdog) - Interview from earlier in the year - 2015 Forecast Volatile & Violent
Friday, July 3, 2015
Wanda Arnold: Trade Legislation - They Never Learn
Wanda Arnold's third article written to
the Hickory Daily Record in relation to the Trans Pacific Partnership
wanting to rebut some of what she had read in that paper.
I read the letter from the National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO) (June 27) in support of North Carolina Congressmen who voted yes on the Trade Promotion Authority (TPA) bill. The reason they support the TPA is explained clearly in the letter. They understand the amount of power the President will have in writing trade agreements with foreign countries and state:
This reminds me of a similar situation that occurred when I was on the Board of Directors of the Prince William Realtor's Association in Virginia. The issue came up as to which candidate for election the Association should support in terms of financial contributions. I thought that the two candidates would be evaluated for their past support of the real estate industry. Naive me. No, equal amounts would be given to each candidate so that then, no matter who the winner was, we would be assured of an appointment with the winner during which we could explain our position on pending legislation.
The NCTO is assuming that they will have a chance to similarly influence the President in their favor in all future negotiations. I am afraid the President and those calling the shots have their own agenda and it is not to build up American small businesses and strengthen the economy. The very industry that was devastated by NAFTA did not learn their lesson.
NATFA is really a treaty with Canada and Mexico forming the North American Union and it did break down many trade barriers. But ask yourself who benefited? If you'd like to know the plan for us, just look at the European Union and its history. Our new currency has already been planned -- the Amero.
Why is our border wide open to Mexico? Research the North American Union and find out. What's next? It's the Trans Pacific Union, of course. We need to wake up and put a stop to this plan: once large sections of the world are under complete control of the corporations, the next step is the New World Order.
I read the letter from the National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO) (June 27) in support of North Carolina Congressmen who voted yes on the Trade Promotion Authority (TPA) bill. The reason they support the TPA is explained clearly in the letter. They understand the amount of power the President will have in writing trade agreements with foreign countries and state:
The support of our friends on Capitol Hill helps us to secure critical provisions, such as those giving preference to yarns and fabrics made in the United States.They are in effect saying that if NC does not vote for the bill, their legitimate concerns for agreements that favor their industry will be ignored. They won't have the ear of the President, period.
This reminds me of a similar situation that occurred when I was on the Board of Directors of the Prince William Realtor's Association in Virginia. The issue came up as to which candidate for election the Association should support in terms of financial contributions. I thought that the two candidates would be evaluated for their past support of the real estate industry. Naive me. No, equal amounts would be given to each candidate so that then, no matter who the winner was, we would be assured of an appointment with the winner during which we could explain our position on pending legislation.
The NCTO is assuming that they will have a chance to similarly influence the President in their favor in all future negotiations. I am afraid the President and those calling the shots have their own agenda and it is not to build up American small businesses and strengthen the economy. The very industry that was devastated by NAFTA did not learn their lesson.
NATFA is really a treaty with Canada and Mexico forming the North American Union and it did break down many trade barriers. But ask yourself who benefited? If you'd like to know the plan for us, just look at the European Union and its history. Our new currency has already been planned -- the Amero.
Why is our border wide open to Mexico? Research the North American Union and find out. What's next? It's the Trans Pacific Union, of course. We need to wake up and put a stop to this plan: once large sections of the world are under complete control of the corporations, the next step is the New World Order.
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