I'm going to try to get the Newsletter out tonight. Maybe, for the non-nightowls, you'll see it in the morning. In the meantime here is the video.
Special Presentations
A. Swearing-in Mike Johnson and Dean Proctor to the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission
B. Presentation of the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2015 by Paula Hodges, Audit Partner with Martin Starnes & Associates
Persons Requesting to be Heard
Larry Pope
A. Public Hearings
1. Consideration of Voluntary Contiguous Annexation of 11.936 acres Located in the 3000 Block of Short Road.
2. Consideration of the Sale of Five City-Owned Properties Located on F Avenue SE.
B. Departmental Reports:
1. Consideration of a Memorandum of Understanding for the Construction of a Splash Pad at Kiwanis Park.
General Comments
Mayor Wright about the issues with Hickory Public Housing Authority
Wednesday, October 21, 2015
Wednesday, October 7, 2015
Newsletter about the City Council meeting of October 6, 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.
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Hound Notes:I didn't put out an agenda, because there wasn't much to this meeting. The meeting lasted a little longer than 20 minutes. There was a presentation of a proclamation for fire prevention and safety and Chuck Hansen, the Director of Public Works had an update on Single Stream Recycling.
There really have not been many issues to discuss of late related to these meetings. The only issues of major relevance have been introduced by the public. Those issues would be the Hickory Public Housing issues -- the allegations by former employees, tenants, and the 4th Street Southwest group that doesn't want the proposed Public Housing structure to be built on 4th Street. The other issue was the group of people who needed resolution related to the long time proposed bridge project from 29th Avenue NE over into Caldwell County off of Grace Chapel Road.
I do try to put out an agenda, because it makes it easier to present this material. I also like the public, who follow this site, to have an opportunity to see what is going on with these meetings. You can always go to the City's website and view the Agenda, which comes out on the Friday afternoon before the meeting. Go to the main page and and click on Quick Links towards the top of the page, pull down and tap Agendas and Minutes.
I do need better proof reading skills (LOL).
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Invocation by retired Minister Bill Garrard
Special Presentations
A. Proclamation for Fire Prevention Week, October 4-10, 2015.
Presented to Terri Byers of the Hickory Fire Department
Consent Agenda:(Unanimously approved)
A. Approval of the National Naval Aviation Museum Standard Renewal Loan Agreement for Loaned Aircraft and Artifacts Located at the Hickory Regional Airport. - The City of Hickory/Hickory Regional Airport has on loan from the National Naval Aviation Museum (NNAM) certain retired aircraft and artifacts located at the Hickory Regional Airport and on display by the Hickory Aviation Museum. The Hickory Regional Airport has participated in and has had on loan property from the NNAM for over fifteen (15) years. The Loan Agreement with NNAM covers a period of five (5) years commencing September 1, 2015 and ending September 1, 2020 with an option for renewal. Staff recommends approval of the National Naval Aviation Museum Standard Renewal Loan Agreement for loaned aircraft and artifacts.
B. Approval of Eight Days of Vacation Time to Use as Door Prizes for Coworker Appreciation Day. - Human Resources requests approval of eight days of vacation time to use as door prizes for the annual Coworker Appreciation event scheduled for Thursday, October 29, 2015, at Hickory Metro Convention Center. Five days are used as the grand prize and the other three days as additional door prizes. Staff recommends approval of eight days of vacation time for door prizes at the annual coworker event.
C. Approval of the Contract Renewal with Socrata in the Amount of $12,000. - In an effort to provide greater transparency, the City of Hickory contracted with Socrata to present the FY 2016 Budget over the internet. Following the success and popularity of that initiative Staff recommends that we take the next step in transparency by utilizing Socrata’s OpenExpenditures product. The open data portal will enable citizens to reduce the need for administrative assistance when seeking public information from the City. Staff recommends approval of the contract renewal with Socrata in the amount of $12,000 for OpenBudget with the addition of Socrata’s OpenExpenditures product for a one year term.
D. Approval of the Special Events Activities Application for Children’s Advocacy and Protection Center Vigil, Kathleen Landry, Community Outreach Coordinator, October 20, 2015, 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Sails on the Square.
E. Call for Public Hearing for Consideration of Voluntary Contiguous Annexation of 11.936 acres Located in the 3000 Block of Short Road. (Authorize Public Hearing for October 20, 2015)
F. Call for Public Hearing for Consideration of the Sale of Five City-Owned Properties Located on F Avenue SE. (Authorize Public Hearing for October 20, 2015)
G. Acceptance of the North Carolina Department of Transportation Grant (Non-Primary Entitlement Funds) in the Amount of $150,000 for Airport Improvements. - The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), by Letter dated July 30, 2015, has allocated FAA Non-Primary Entitlement Funds under the State Block Grant Program for Federal fiscal year 2015 for the Hickory Regional Airport. The funds are to be used for airside safety needs first with consideration of other needed airport projects. These funds are to be expended no later than July 1, 2019. NCDOT has allocated Federal funds via Grant 36237.66.NPE.15 with the Federal share of $150,000 and the local share of $16,667 for airport improvements. Upon City Council’s acceptances of the grant, any future proposed projects that fall under the guidelines of this grant will be brought back to Council for approval. Staff recommends Council’s acceptance of the
grant in the amount of $150,000 from NCDOT.
H. Budget Ordinance Amendment Number 7.
1. To recognize as revenue an $850.00 donation from Patrick Beaver Friends of the Library for the purchase of senior bingo prizes.
2. To recognize a total of $4,325 in donations and budget the same as a corresponding increase to the Recreation Department Supplies line-item. Of this total, $4,000 was donated from Lowe’s Foods for the Christmas Parade and $325 for the Back 2 School Bash on August 15th at the Highland Recreation Center.
3. To recognize $4,128 in revenue received from Caldwell County Railroad Company designated for railroad signal maintenance on Clement Blvd per highway license/maintenance agreement and via NCDOT’s 2015 maintenance class rates.
4. To recognize revenue of $77,464.88 from Teen Challenge North Carolina for extension of a waterline along St. Peter's Church Road to serve property on Valwood Road. Customer has paid for materials associated with this project, and this amendment will allow the City to procure same.
I. Approval of Amendments to the Economic Development Agreement between the City of Hickory and Blue Bloodhound, LP. - On June 25, 2015 City Council approved the Economic Development Agreement with Blue Bloodhound, LP. Subsequent to Council approving the Agreement, Blue Bloodhound, LP created another company, Blue Bloodhound Management, LLC. Clue Bloodhound Management, an affiliate of Blue Bloodhound, LP, will be responsible for some of the performance of Blue Bloodhound, LP under the economic development agreement. Therefore, both companies need to be a part of the Agreement. In addition to adding the affiliate company’s name to the Agreement, the due date for the Opinion of Counsel letters from the company and the City has been changed from August 31, 2015 to October 1, 2015. Other than adding Blue Bloodhound Management, LLC to the Agreement and revising the due date for the Opinion of Counsel letters, no other changes have been made to the Agreement. Staff requests Council’s approval of the amended Economic Development Agreement between the City of Hickory, Clue Bloodhound, LP, and Blue Bloodhound Management, LLC.
New Business - Departmental Reports:
1. Recycling Update - Presentation by Chuck Hanson
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.
=================================================
Hound Notes:I didn't put out an agenda, because there wasn't much to this meeting. The meeting lasted a little longer than 20 minutes. There was a presentation of a proclamation for fire prevention and safety and Chuck Hansen, the Director of Public Works had an update on Single Stream Recycling.
There really have not been many issues to discuss of late related to these meetings. The only issues of major relevance have been introduced by the public. Those issues would be the Hickory Public Housing issues -- the allegations by former employees, tenants, and the 4th Street Southwest group that doesn't want the proposed Public Housing structure to be built on 4th Street. The other issue was the group of people who needed resolution related to the long time proposed bridge project from 29th Avenue NE over into Caldwell County off of Grace Chapel Road.
I do try to put out an agenda, because it makes it easier to present this material. I also like the public, who follow this site, to have an opportunity to see what is going on with these meetings. You can always go to the City's website and view the Agenda, which comes out on the Friday afternoon before the meeting. Go to the main page and and click on Quick Links towards the top of the page, pull down and tap Agendas and Minutes.
I do need better proof reading skills (LOL).
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Invocation by retired Minister Bill Garrard
Special Presentations
A. Proclamation for Fire Prevention Week, October 4-10, 2015.
Presented to Terri Byers of the Hickory Fire Department
Consent Agenda:(Unanimously approved)
A. Approval of the National Naval Aviation Museum Standard Renewal Loan Agreement for Loaned Aircraft and Artifacts Located at the Hickory Regional Airport. - The City of Hickory/Hickory Regional Airport has on loan from the National Naval Aviation Museum (NNAM) certain retired aircraft and artifacts located at the Hickory Regional Airport and on display by the Hickory Aviation Museum. The Hickory Regional Airport has participated in and has had on loan property from the NNAM for over fifteen (15) years. The Loan Agreement with NNAM covers a period of five (5) years commencing September 1, 2015 and ending September 1, 2020 with an option for renewal. Staff recommends approval of the National Naval Aviation Museum Standard Renewal Loan Agreement for loaned aircraft and artifacts.
B. Approval of Eight Days of Vacation Time to Use as Door Prizes for Coworker Appreciation Day. - Human Resources requests approval of eight days of vacation time to use as door prizes for the annual Coworker Appreciation event scheduled for Thursday, October 29, 2015, at Hickory Metro Convention Center. Five days are used as the grand prize and the other three days as additional door prizes. Staff recommends approval of eight days of vacation time for door prizes at the annual coworker event.
C. Approval of the Contract Renewal with Socrata in the Amount of $12,000. - In an effort to provide greater transparency, the City of Hickory contracted with Socrata to present the FY 2016 Budget over the internet. Following the success and popularity of that initiative Staff recommends that we take the next step in transparency by utilizing Socrata’s OpenExpenditures product. The open data portal will enable citizens to reduce the need for administrative assistance when seeking public information from the City. Staff recommends approval of the contract renewal with Socrata in the amount of $12,000 for OpenBudget with the addition of Socrata’s OpenExpenditures product for a one year term.
D. Approval of the Special Events Activities Application for Children’s Advocacy and Protection Center Vigil, Kathleen Landry, Community Outreach Coordinator, October 20, 2015, 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Sails on the Square.
E. Call for Public Hearing for Consideration of Voluntary Contiguous Annexation of 11.936 acres Located in the 3000 Block of Short Road. (Authorize Public Hearing for October 20, 2015)
F. Call for Public Hearing for Consideration of the Sale of Five City-Owned Properties Located on F Avenue SE. (Authorize Public Hearing for October 20, 2015)
G. Acceptance of the North Carolina Department of Transportation Grant (Non-Primary Entitlement Funds) in the Amount of $150,000 for Airport Improvements. - The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), by Letter dated July 30, 2015, has allocated FAA Non-Primary Entitlement Funds under the State Block Grant Program for Federal fiscal year 2015 for the Hickory Regional Airport. The funds are to be used for airside safety needs first with consideration of other needed airport projects. These funds are to be expended no later than July 1, 2019. NCDOT has allocated Federal funds via Grant 36237.66.NPE.15 with the Federal share of $150,000 and the local share of $16,667 for airport improvements. Upon City Council’s acceptances of the grant, any future proposed projects that fall under the guidelines of this grant will be brought back to Council for approval. Staff recommends Council’s acceptance of the
grant in the amount of $150,000 from NCDOT.
H. Budget Ordinance Amendment Number 7.
1. To recognize as revenue an $850.00 donation from Patrick Beaver Friends of the Library for the purchase of senior bingo prizes.
2. To recognize a total of $4,325 in donations and budget the same as a corresponding increase to the Recreation Department Supplies line-item. Of this total, $4,000 was donated from Lowe’s Foods for the Christmas Parade and $325 for the Back 2 School Bash on August 15th at the Highland Recreation Center.
3. To recognize $4,128 in revenue received from Caldwell County Railroad Company designated for railroad signal maintenance on Clement Blvd per highway license/maintenance agreement and via NCDOT’s 2015 maintenance class rates.
4. To recognize revenue of $77,464.88 from Teen Challenge North Carolina for extension of a waterline along St. Peter's Church Road to serve property on Valwood Road. Customer has paid for materials associated with this project, and this amendment will allow the City to procure same.
I. Approval of Amendments to the Economic Development Agreement between the City of Hickory and Blue Bloodhound, LP. - On June 25, 2015 City Council approved the Economic Development Agreement with Blue Bloodhound, LP. Subsequent to Council approving the Agreement, Blue Bloodhound, LP created another company, Blue Bloodhound Management, LLC. Clue Bloodhound Management, an affiliate of Blue Bloodhound, LP, will be responsible for some of the performance of Blue Bloodhound, LP under the economic development agreement. Therefore, both companies need to be a part of the Agreement. In addition to adding the affiliate company’s name to the Agreement, the due date for the Opinion of Counsel letters from the company and the City has been changed from August 31, 2015 to October 1, 2015. Other than adding Blue Bloodhound Management, LLC to the Agreement and revising the due date for the Opinion of Counsel letters, no other changes have been made to the Agreement. Staff requests Council’s approval of the amended Economic Development Agreement between the City of Hickory, Clue Bloodhound, LP, and Blue Bloodhound Management, LLC.
New Business - Departmental Reports:
1. Recycling Update - Presentation by Chuck Hanson
Wednesday, September 16, 2015
Hickory City Council Special Meeting on Hickory Housing Authority - September 16, 2015
The following is the special meeting of the Hickory City Council related to matters of concern with the Hickory Public Housing Authority. Hickory City Council voted Wednesday to take no immediate action on allegations that some tenants were sexually harassed and taxpayer monies were misused for gifts and trips to conferences.
Spending on cosmetics, alleged sexual harassment draw scrutiny at Hickory housing agency - Charlotte Observer - Fred Clasen-Kelly - September 15, 2015
CEO of Hickory Housing Authority speaks against allegations - WSOC - September 16, 2015
Hickory Housing Authority spending under scrutiny - September 16, 2015
Hickory City Council takes no action on gift, trip charges - Charlotte Observer - September 16, 2015
Spending on cosmetics, alleged sexual harassment draw scrutiny at Hickory housing agency - Charlotte Observer - Fred Clasen-Kelly - September 15, 2015
CEO of Hickory Housing Authority speaks against allegations - WSOC - September 16, 2015
Hickory Housing Authority spending under scrutiny - September 16, 2015
Hickory City Council takes no action on gift, trip charges - Charlotte Observer - September 16, 2015
Newsletter about the City Council meeting of September 15, 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.
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Hound Notes:The most interesting item on the agenda tonight was the plan to revitalize the property in west Hickory where the old Southern Desk and Ivey-Weaver Mill (S&W Chemical) used to reside.
If that plan could come to fruition, then we might see a turnaround for an area that has for a long time been in desperate need of revitalization and investment. It will take some outside of the box ideas to move such a plan forward, because this area has had a propensity to be neglected for over a generation. Most of the people who live here now, haven't a clue that was a middle class/working class area. I know the area well because my mother owns property there. A few blocks from here is the first place my maternal grandparents lived when they moved to Hickory -- when my grandfather started his business and my grandmother was an announcer on the radio. Drive down 1st Ave SW towards and past the Snack Bar to see the definition of ramshackle. Think about people that have lived in that area for 30, 40, and 50 years and have seen no growth and their real property values have declined. Is that their fault? Do Something!
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Special Presentations
A. Alan Barnhardt – Update on Catawba Science Center Projects
New Business - Public Hearings
1. Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER). - The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development requires the City of Hickory, as a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) entitlement funding recipient, to report on CDBG monies spent within the previous fiscal year. This report, the Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) evaluates the effectiveness of the use of resources in addressing identified goals and objectives cited in the Annual Action Plan which is prepared before the fiscal year begins. The CAPER outlines the City’s CDBG expenditures from July 1, 2014 through June 30, 2015. Staff recommends approval of the FY2014-2015 Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report. This public hearing was advertised in a newspaper having general circulation in the Hickory area on September 4, 2015 and September 15, 2015.
Departmental Reports
1. Acceptance of the Bid for the Water Treatment Facility Emergency Power Generator Replacement Project with Crowder Construction Company in the amount of $2,699,000. The City of Hickory Water Treatment Facility was last upgraded in 1993. This upgrade included the installation of a new emergency generator that would provide power for the acility in the event of a power failure. The emergency generator is a permit required critical piece of equipment for operations of the facility. The existing generator is approximately 24 years old and has exceeded the mechanical life of the unit. Vendors cannot provide replacement parts to repair the existing unit. In October of 2014 Council approved contracting with HDR Engineering, Inc. to evaluate the existing conditions, and analyze the generator for proper sizing. The project was advertised for bids and found Crowder Construction Company to be the lowest responsible bidder. The bids received are below the Engineer’s Estimate of $3.0 million dollars. Staff recommends Council accept the bid for the Water Treatment Facility emergency power generator replacement project with Crowder Construction Company in the amount of $2,699,000. This project is planned as a component of the FY 2015-2016 Capital Budget to be funded from Capital Reserves.
2. Acceptance of the Southwest Hickory Revitalization Strategy Plan for the Southern Desk and Ivey Weaver Cotton Mill. - The City of Hickory applied for two Community-wide Brownfield Assessment Grants from the US EPA in November 2011. In May 2012, the City received notice that it had been selected to receive two $200,000 grants to assess petroleum and hazardous materials contamination at Brownfield sites. The City’s environmental consultant, AMEC Foster Wheeler, subcontracted with CIII Associates to compete a redevelopment strategy for the former Southern Desk and Ivey Weaver Cotton Mill sites. The City hosted a public workshop in May 2015. After reviewing the existing conditions at the sites, speaking with residents, and conducting market analysis, CIII Associates has presented a mixed use vision to guide future development at the two sites. Staff recommends that City Council accept the Southwest Hickory Revitalization Strategy plan for the Southern Desk and Ivey Weaver Cotton Mill sites.
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.
=================================================
Hound Notes:The most interesting item on the agenda tonight was the plan to revitalize the property in west Hickory where the old Southern Desk and Ivey-Weaver Mill (S&W Chemical) used to reside.
If that plan could come to fruition, then we might see a turnaround for an area that has for a long time been in desperate need of revitalization and investment. It will take some outside of the box ideas to move such a plan forward, because this area has had a propensity to be neglected for over a generation. Most of the people who live here now, haven't a clue that was a middle class/working class area. I know the area well because my mother owns property there. A few blocks from here is the first place my maternal grandparents lived when they moved to Hickory -- when my grandfather started his business and my grandmother was an announcer on the radio. Drive down 1st Ave SW towards and past the Snack Bar to see the definition of ramshackle. Think about people that have lived in that area for 30, 40, and 50 years and have seen no growth and their real property values have declined. Is that their fault? Do Something!
=================================================
Special Presentations
A. Alan Barnhardt – Update on Catawba Science Center Projects
New Business - Public Hearings
1. Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER). - The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development requires the City of Hickory, as a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) entitlement funding recipient, to report on CDBG monies spent within the previous fiscal year. This report, the Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) evaluates the effectiveness of the use of resources in addressing identified goals and objectives cited in the Annual Action Plan which is prepared before the fiscal year begins. The CAPER outlines the City’s CDBG expenditures from July 1, 2014 through June 30, 2015. Staff recommends approval of the FY2014-2015 Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report. This public hearing was advertised in a newspaper having general circulation in the Hickory area on September 4, 2015 and September 15, 2015.
Departmental Reports
1. Acceptance of the Bid for the Water Treatment Facility Emergency Power Generator Replacement Project with Crowder Construction Company in the amount of $2,699,000. The City of Hickory Water Treatment Facility was last upgraded in 1993. This upgrade included the installation of a new emergency generator that would provide power for the acility in the event of a power failure. The emergency generator is a permit required critical piece of equipment for operations of the facility. The existing generator is approximately 24 years old and has exceeded the mechanical life of the unit. Vendors cannot provide replacement parts to repair the existing unit. In October of 2014 Council approved contracting with HDR Engineering, Inc. to evaluate the existing conditions, and analyze the generator for proper sizing. The project was advertised for bids and found Crowder Construction Company to be the lowest responsible bidder. The bids received are below the Engineer’s Estimate of $3.0 million dollars. Staff recommends Council accept the bid for the Water Treatment Facility emergency power generator replacement project with Crowder Construction Company in the amount of $2,699,000. This project is planned as a component of the FY 2015-2016 Capital Budget to be funded from Capital Reserves.
2. Acceptance of the Southwest Hickory Revitalization Strategy Plan for the Southern Desk and Ivey Weaver Cotton Mill. - The City of Hickory applied for two Community-wide Brownfield Assessment Grants from the US EPA in November 2011. In May 2012, the City received notice that it had been selected to receive two $200,000 grants to assess petroleum and hazardous materials contamination at Brownfield sites. The City’s environmental consultant, AMEC Foster Wheeler, subcontracted with CIII Associates to compete a redevelopment strategy for the former Southern Desk and Ivey Weaver Cotton Mill sites. The City hosted a public workshop in May 2015. After reviewing the existing conditions at the sites, speaking with residents, and conducting market analysis, CIII Associates has presented a mixed use vision to guide future development at the two sites. Staff recommends that City Council accept the Southwest Hickory Revitalization Strategy plan for the Southern Desk and Ivey Weaver Cotton Mill sites.
Tuesday, September 15, 2015
Agenda about the City Council meeting of September 15, 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.
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Hound Notes: Another routine City Council meeting. We will see if anything interesting happens, but nothing stands out.
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Invocation
Special Presentations
A. Alan Barnhardt – Update on Catawba Science Center Projects
Persons Requesting to Be Heard
Consent Agenda
A. Approval of a Landscape Grant for Non-residential Property Owned by First Lawyers, LLC, Located at 858 2nd Street NE in the Amount of $2,500. - City Council created the Landscape Grant program in 1999 to provide economic incentives for property owners to improve the general appearance of their property. The Community Appearance Commission reviews applications for the grant program and forwards a recommendation of approval or denial to City Council. The grants are designed as a reimbursement grant in which the City of Hickory will match the applicant on a 50/50 basis. The maximum grant amount from the City of Hickory is $2,500. The applicant, First Lawyers, LLC has provided two bids for the removal of two existing hard surfaced areas, which are to be replaced by brick sidewalks and landscaping beds. Both estimates exceed $5,000, and qualifies for the full $2,500 grant. The Community Appearance Commission voted unanimously (7-0), at their August 24, 2015 meeting, to recommend funding of the requested grant in the amount of $2,500.
B. Approval of a Community Appearance Grant for Non-residential Property Owned by Phillip McCluney Located at 903 10th Street NE, in the Amount of $5,000. - City Council created the Community Appearance Grant program in 1999 to provide economic incentives for property owners to improve the general appearance of properties located within the City’s designated Urban Revitalization Area. The Community Appearance Commission reviews applications for the grant program and forwards a recommendation of approval or denial to City Council. The grants are designed as a reimbursement grant in which the City of Hickory will match the applicant on a 50/50 basis. The maximum grant amount from the City of Hickory is $5,000. The applicant, Phillip McCluney has provided two bids for the renovation of an existing commercial building. Both estimates exceed $10,000, and qualifies for the full $5,000 grant. The Community Appearance Commission voted unanimously (7-0) at their August 24, 2015 meeting, to recommend funding of the requested grant in the amount of $5,000.
C. Approval of a Community Appearance Grant for Non-residential Property Owned by
Cooperative Christian Ministry (CCM) Located at 31 1st Avenue NE, in the Amount of $5,000. - City Council created the Community Appearance Grant program in 1999 to provide economic incentives for property owners to improve the general appearance of properties located within the City’s designated Urban Revitalization Area. The Community Appearance Commission reviews applications for the grant program and forwards a recommendation of approval or denial to City Council. The grants are designed as a reimbursement grant in which the City of Hickory will match the applicant on a 50/50 basis. The maximum grant amount from the City of Hickory is $5,000. The applicant,Cooperative Christian Ministry has provided two bids for the renovation of the exterior of
their facility. Both estimates exceed $10,000, and qualifies for the full $5,000 grant. The Community Appearance Commission voted unanimously (7-0) at their August 24, 2015 meeting, to recommend funding of the requested grant in the amount of $5,000.
D. Special Events Activities Application for Rodney Atkins Concert, Megan Meade, Director
of Community Relations and Events, Hickory Crawdads, October 17, 2015 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. at 2500 Clement Boulevard NW.
E. Special Events Activities Application for Symphony Under the Sails, Mandy Pitts,
Communications Director/Brand Manager, City of Hickory, September 20, 2015 from 1:00p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Sails on the Square Stage in Downtown Hickory.
F. Special Events Activities Application for Time of My Life Tour, Megan Meade, Director of
Community Relations and Events, Hickory Crawdads, October 16, 2015 from 9:00 a.m. to
1:00 a.m. at 2500 Clement Boulevard NW.
G. Approval of a Cemetery Deed from City of Hickory to Charlie Crews (Southside Cemetery) (Prepared by Deputy City Attorney Arnita Dula).
H. Approve the Transfer of Cemetery Deed from Austra B. Friday, by and through her Attorney-in-Fact, Paul Marshall Friday to Betty Beshears, (Oakwood Cemetery) (Prepared by Attorney John G. Fuller).
I. Citizens’ Advisory Committee Recommendations for Assistance through the City of
Hickory’s Housing Programs. The following requests were considered by the Citizens’ Advisory Committee at their regular meeting on September 3, 2015:
Each of the following applicants are being
recommended for approval for assistance under the City of Hickory’s 2015 Urgent Repair
Program. This program provides qualified low income citizens with assistance for
emergency related repairs not to exceed $7,200.
Cassell (Cassie) Deal, 1609 17th Street NE, Hickory
Rosalyn Reinhardt, 721 7th Avenue Court SE, Hickory
Doris Sanders, 410 2nd Street SE, Hickory
The Citizens’ Advisory Committee recommends approval of the aforementioned requests for assistance through the City of Hickory’s housing assistance programs.
J. Acceptance of the Bid and Award of the Construction Contract to Hickory Sand Company, Inc. for the Construction of the Sherwood Forest Sewer Project in the amount of $748,924.50. - In 1998 Sherwood Forest was identified as a part of the future service areas for the City of Hickory sanitary sewer system. Staff applied for State Revolving Grant funds for completion of this project on April 1, 1999. Staff resubmitted an updated Preliminary Engineers Report in 2009. NCDENR Division of Water Quality and NC Construction Grants and Loans issued final approval on May 10, 2010. The project was approved for a grant to fund construction of necessary sanitary sewer infrastructure to provide public sewer to the homes in this subdivision. City Council approved the Resolution accepting the application for grant funds in July 2010. The project was advertised for bids and found Hickory Sand Company, Inc. to be the lowest responsible bidder. Staff recommends Council accept the bid and award of construction contract with Hickory Sand Company, Inc. in the amount of $713,261.50, and a contingency of $35,663 for a total of $748,924.50 for the Sherwood Forest sewer project.
K. Acceptance of the 2015 Justice Assistance Grant in the Amount of $19,555 and to Serve
as the Lead Agency in the Grant Process for a Combined Amount of $32,455. - Hickory Police Department requests permission to accept funds from the 2015 Justice Assistant Grant (JAG) to purchase 12 additional body-worn cameras, hardware, hardware service/replacement, and digital evidence management storage. City of Hickory and Catawba County received notification of approval to receive a combined allocation of $32,455 under the 2015 Assistance Grant Program. Catawba County is eligible for a direct award of $12,900 and the City of Hickory is eligible for a direct award of $19,555. There is no match required. The City of Hickory has agreed to serve as lead agency in the grant application process. Hickory Police Department recommends acceptance of the JAG grant to purchase the additional body worn cameras, hardware, service and digital evidence management solution in the amount of $19,555 and to serve as lead agency in the grant process for a combined amount of $32,455.
L. Acceptance of the Bulletproof Vest Grant for the Purchase of Bulletproof Vests for Police
Officers. - Hickory Police Department requests permission to accept a grant to assist in funding the purchase of bulletproof vests for police officers. The grant will pay up to 50 percent of the cost of NIJ approved vests purchased by Hickory Police Department. Forty-five vests have been requested at an estimated price of $750 for each vest. Hickory Police Department has a mandatory wear policy for all uniformed officers while on duty. Funds are placed in the police department budget uniform line item annually to purchase vestsfor police officers. Life expectancy of each vest is approximately five years. The Police Department recommends acceptance of this grant to receive up to 50 percent funding to purchase bulletproof vests for police officers.
M. Grant Project Ordinance Number 2.
1. To set up Bulletproof Vest Partnership project to allow for the purchase of 45 vests at ($750) and $400.00 shipping for a total expense of $34,150. The City has received a Federal award from The United States Department of Justice in the amount of $16,672.24 to pay up to 48.82% of the costs of National Institute of Justice approved vests. The required local match in the amount of $17,477.76 will be transferred from the original police department operational budget.
N. Budget Ordinance Amendment Number 6.
1. The City has received a Federal award from The United States Department of Justice in the amount of $16,672.24 to pay up to 48.82% of the costs of National Institute of Justice approved vests. The required local match in the amount of $17,477.76 will be transferred from the original police department operational budget via this Budget Ordinance Amendment request.
New Business - Public Hearings
1. Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER). - The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development requires the City of Hickory, as a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) entitlement funding recipient, to report on CDBG monies spent within the previous fiscal year. This report, the Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER)
evaluates the effectiveness of the use of resources in addressing identified goals and objectives cited in the Annual Action Plan which is prepared before the fiscal year begins. The CAPER outlines the City’s CDBG expenditures from July 1, 2014 through June 30, 2015. Staff recommends approval of the FY2014-2015 Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report. This public hearing was advertised in a newspaper having general circulation in
the Hickory area on September 4, 2015 and September 15, 2015.
Departmental Reports
1. Acceptance of the Bid for the Water Treatment Facility Emergency Power Generator Replacement Project with Crowder Construction Company in the amount of $2,699,000. The City of Hickory Water Treatment Facility was last upgraded in 1993. This upgrade included the installation of a new emergency generator that would provide power for the acility in the event of a power failure. The emergency generator is a permit required critical piece of equipment for operations of the facility. The existing generator is approximately 24 years old and has exceeded the mechanical life of the unit. Vendors cannot provide replacement parts to repair the existing unit. In October of 2014 Council approved contracting with HDR Engineering, Inc. to evaluate the existing conditions, and analyze the generator for proper sizing. The project was advertised for bids and found Crowder Construction Company to be the lowest responsible bidder. The bids received are below the Engineer’s Estimate of $3.0 million dollars. Staff recommends Council accept the bid for the Water Treatment Facility emergency power generator replacement project with Crowder Construction Company in the amount of $2,699,000. This project is planned as a component of the FY 2015-2016 Capital Budget to be funded from Capital Reserves.
2. Acceptance of the Southwest Hickory Revitalization Strategy Plan for the Southern Desk and Ivey Weaver Cotton Mill. - The City of Hickory applied for two Community-wide Brownfield Assessment Grants from the US EPA in November 2011. In May 2012, the City received notice that it had been selected to receive two $200,000 grants to assess petroleum and hazardous materials contamination at Brownfield sites. The City’s environmental consultant, AMEC Foster Wheeler, subcontracted with CIII Associates to compete a redevelopment strategy for the former Southern Desk and Ivey Weaver Cotton Mill sites. The City hosted a public workshop in May 2015. After reviewing the existing conditions at the sites, speaking with residents, and conducting market analysis, CIII Associates has presented a mixed use vision to guide future development at the two sites. Staff recommends that City Council accept the Southwest Hickory Revitalization Strategy plan for the Southern Desk and Ivey Weaver Cotton Mill sites.
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:
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Hound Notes: Another routine City Council meeting. We will see if anything interesting happens, but nothing stands out.
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Invocation
Special Presentations
A. Alan Barnhardt – Update on Catawba Science Center Projects
Persons Requesting to Be Heard
Consent Agenda
A. Approval of a Landscape Grant for Non-residential Property Owned by First Lawyers, LLC, Located at 858 2nd Street NE in the Amount of $2,500. - City Council created the Landscape Grant program in 1999 to provide economic incentives for property owners to improve the general appearance of their property. The Community Appearance Commission reviews applications for the grant program and forwards a recommendation of approval or denial to City Council. The grants are designed as a reimbursement grant in which the City of Hickory will match the applicant on a 50/50 basis. The maximum grant amount from the City of Hickory is $2,500. The applicant, First Lawyers, LLC has provided two bids for the removal of two existing hard surfaced areas, which are to be replaced by brick sidewalks and landscaping beds. Both estimates exceed $5,000, and qualifies for the full $2,500 grant. The Community Appearance Commission voted unanimously (7-0), at their August 24, 2015 meeting, to recommend funding of the requested grant in the amount of $2,500.
B. Approval of a Community Appearance Grant for Non-residential Property Owned by Phillip McCluney Located at 903 10th Street NE, in the Amount of $5,000. - City Council created the Community Appearance Grant program in 1999 to provide economic incentives for property owners to improve the general appearance of properties located within the City’s designated Urban Revitalization Area. The Community Appearance Commission reviews applications for the grant program and forwards a recommendation of approval or denial to City Council. The grants are designed as a reimbursement grant in which the City of Hickory will match the applicant on a 50/50 basis. The maximum grant amount from the City of Hickory is $5,000. The applicant, Phillip McCluney has provided two bids for the renovation of an existing commercial building. Both estimates exceed $10,000, and qualifies for the full $5,000 grant. The Community Appearance Commission voted unanimously (7-0) at their August 24, 2015 meeting, to recommend funding of the requested grant in the amount of $5,000.
C. Approval of a Community Appearance Grant for Non-residential Property Owned by
Cooperative Christian Ministry (CCM) Located at 31 1st Avenue NE, in the Amount of $5,000. - City Council created the Community Appearance Grant program in 1999 to provide economic incentives for property owners to improve the general appearance of properties located within the City’s designated Urban Revitalization Area. The Community Appearance Commission reviews applications for the grant program and forwards a recommendation of approval or denial to City Council. The grants are designed as a reimbursement grant in which the City of Hickory will match the applicant on a 50/50 basis. The maximum grant amount from the City of Hickory is $5,000. The applicant,Cooperative Christian Ministry has provided two bids for the renovation of the exterior of
their facility. Both estimates exceed $10,000, and qualifies for the full $5,000 grant. The Community Appearance Commission voted unanimously (7-0) at their August 24, 2015 meeting, to recommend funding of the requested grant in the amount of $5,000.
D. Special Events Activities Application for Rodney Atkins Concert, Megan Meade, Director
of Community Relations and Events, Hickory Crawdads, October 17, 2015 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. at 2500 Clement Boulevard NW.
E. Special Events Activities Application for Symphony Under the Sails, Mandy Pitts,
Communications Director/Brand Manager, City of Hickory, September 20, 2015 from 1:00p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Sails on the Square Stage in Downtown Hickory.
F. Special Events Activities Application for Time of My Life Tour, Megan Meade, Director of
Community Relations and Events, Hickory Crawdads, October 16, 2015 from 9:00 a.m. to
1:00 a.m. at 2500 Clement Boulevard NW.
G. Approval of a Cemetery Deed from City of Hickory to Charlie Crews (Southside Cemetery) (Prepared by Deputy City Attorney Arnita Dula).
H. Approve the Transfer of Cemetery Deed from Austra B. Friday, by and through her Attorney-in-Fact, Paul Marshall Friday to Betty Beshears, (Oakwood Cemetery) (Prepared by Attorney John G. Fuller).
I. Citizens’ Advisory Committee Recommendations for Assistance through the City of
Hickory’s Housing Programs. The following requests were considered by the Citizens’ Advisory Committee at their regular meeting on September 3, 2015:
Each of the following applicants are being
recommended for approval for assistance under the City of Hickory’s 2015 Urgent Repair
Program. This program provides qualified low income citizens with assistance for
emergency related repairs not to exceed $7,200.
Cassell (Cassie) Deal, 1609 17th Street NE, Hickory
Rosalyn Reinhardt, 721 7th Avenue Court SE, Hickory
Doris Sanders, 410 2nd Street SE, Hickory
The Citizens’ Advisory Committee recommends approval of the aforementioned requests for assistance through the City of Hickory’s housing assistance programs.
J. Acceptance of the Bid and Award of the Construction Contract to Hickory Sand Company, Inc. for the Construction of the Sherwood Forest Sewer Project in the amount of $748,924.50. - In 1998 Sherwood Forest was identified as a part of the future service areas for the City of Hickory sanitary sewer system. Staff applied for State Revolving Grant funds for completion of this project on April 1, 1999. Staff resubmitted an updated Preliminary Engineers Report in 2009. NCDENR Division of Water Quality and NC Construction Grants and Loans issued final approval on May 10, 2010. The project was approved for a grant to fund construction of necessary sanitary sewer infrastructure to provide public sewer to the homes in this subdivision. City Council approved the Resolution accepting the application for grant funds in July 2010. The project was advertised for bids and found Hickory Sand Company, Inc. to be the lowest responsible bidder. Staff recommends Council accept the bid and award of construction contract with Hickory Sand Company, Inc. in the amount of $713,261.50, and a contingency of $35,663 for a total of $748,924.50 for the Sherwood Forest sewer project.
K. Acceptance of the 2015 Justice Assistance Grant in the Amount of $19,555 and to Serve
as the Lead Agency in the Grant Process for a Combined Amount of $32,455. - Hickory Police Department requests permission to accept funds from the 2015 Justice Assistant Grant (JAG) to purchase 12 additional body-worn cameras, hardware, hardware service/replacement, and digital evidence management storage. City of Hickory and Catawba County received notification of approval to receive a combined allocation of $32,455 under the 2015 Assistance Grant Program. Catawba County is eligible for a direct award of $12,900 and the City of Hickory is eligible for a direct award of $19,555. There is no match required. The City of Hickory has agreed to serve as lead agency in the grant application process. Hickory Police Department recommends acceptance of the JAG grant to purchase the additional body worn cameras, hardware, service and digital evidence management solution in the amount of $19,555 and to serve as lead agency in the grant process for a combined amount of $32,455.
L. Acceptance of the Bulletproof Vest Grant for the Purchase of Bulletproof Vests for Police
Officers. - Hickory Police Department requests permission to accept a grant to assist in funding the purchase of bulletproof vests for police officers. The grant will pay up to 50 percent of the cost of NIJ approved vests purchased by Hickory Police Department. Forty-five vests have been requested at an estimated price of $750 for each vest. Hickory Police Department has a mandatory wear policy for all uniformed officers while on duty. Funds are placed in the police department budget uniform line item annually to purchase vestsfor police officers. Life expectancy of each vest is approximately five years. The Police Department recommends acceptance of this grant to receive up to 50 percent funding to purchase bulletproof vests for police officers.
M. Grant Project Ordinance Number 2.
1. To set up Bulletproof Vest Partnership project to allow for the purchase of 45 vests at ($750) and $400.00 shipping for a total expense of $34,150. The City has received a Federal award from The United States Department of Justice in the amount of $16,672.24 to pay up to 48.82% of the costs of National Institute of Justice approved vests. The required local match in the amount of $17,477.76 will be transferred from the original police department operational budget.
N. Budget Ordinance Amendment Number 6.
1. The City has received a Federal award from The United States Department of Justice in the amount of $16,672.24 to pay up to 48.82% of the costs of National Institute of Justice approved vests. The required local match in the amount of $17,477.76 will be transferred from the original police department operational budget via this Budget Ordinance Amendment request.
New Business - Public Hearings
1. Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER). - The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development requires the City of Hickory, as a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) entitlement funding recipient, to report on CDBG monies spent within the previous fiscal year. This report, the Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER)
evaluates the effectiveness of the use of resources in addressing identified goals and objectives cited in the Annual Action Plan which is prepared before the fiscal year begins. The CAPER outlines the City’s CDBG expenditures from July 1, 2014 through June 30, 2015. Staff recommends approval of the FY2014-2015 Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report. This public hearing was advertised in a newspaper having general circulation in
the Hickory area on September 4, 2015 and September 15, 2015.
Departmental Reports
1. Acceptance of the Bid for the Water Treatment Facility Emergency Power Generator Replacement Project with Crowder Construction Company in the amount of $2,699,000. The City of Hickory Water Treatment Facility was last upgraded in 1993. This upgrade included the installation of a new emergency generator that would provide power for the acility in the event of a power failure. The emergency generator is a permit required critical piece of equipment for operations of the facility. The existing generator is approximately 24 years old and has exceeded the mechanical life of the unit. Vendors cannot provide replacement parts to repair the existing unit. In October of 2014 Council approved contracting with HDR Engineering, Inc. to evaluate the existing conditions, and analyze the generator for proper sizing. The project was advertised for bids and found Crowder Construction Company to be the lowest responsible bidder. The bids received are below the Engineer’s Estimate of $3.0 million dollars. Staff recommends Council accept the bid for the Water Treatment Facility emergency power generator replacement project with Crowder Construction Company in the amount of $2,699,000. This project is planned as a component of the FY 2015-2016 Capital Budget to be funded from Capital Reserves.
2. Acceptance of the Southwest Hickory Revitalization Strategy Plan for the Southern Desk and Ivey Weaver Cotton Mill. - The City of Hickory applied for two Community-wide Brownfield Assessment Grants from the US EPA in November 2011. In May 2012, the City received notice that it had been selected to receive two $200,000 grants to assess petroleum and hazardous materials contamination at Brownfield sites. The City’s environmental consultant, AMEC Foster Wheeler, subcontracted with CIII Associates to compete a redevelopment strategy for the former Southern Desk and Ivey Weaver Cotton Mill sites. The City hosted a public workshop in May 2015. After reviewing the existing conditions at the sites, speaking with residents, and conducting market analysis, CIII Associates has presented a mixed use vision to guide future development at the two sites. Staff recommends that City Council accept the Southwest Hickory Revitalization Strategy plan for the Southern Desk and Ivey Weaver Cotton Mill sites.
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