Still a ways to go and information to come to light. Inconsistencies that need to see the light, but the Hickory Daily Record article this morning gets us further down the trail -- link below. The Hound has been on the trail for months. Sometimes you have to lay low until the scent trail gets stronger. The forest is always more important than the individual trees.
Thousands of dollars of in-kind contribution funds seem to be missing from the Boost Hickory financial report. The Boost Hickory Treasurer's "Dog ate my Homework" excuses have been numerous, but certainly aren't afforded to your average citizen.
Here's the deal, none of this was about gotcha politics, as the Mayor characterized in the HDR article, "...Or someone who does nothing but try to catch a campaign in something. I did not realize they were illegal. And I was not responsible for determining they were legal.”
When the violations were noticed, Joe Brannock initially contacted the Mayor, various city officials, and Boost Hickory committee members to inform them about the violations. He asked that the violations be corrected. City officials and Boost Hickory members instead denied the violations were true and refused responsibility. The Planning Department, in charge of administration and enforcement of this ordinance, had already stated that the signs were in violation and were in the process of enforcing the law.
As a matter of fact, the gigantic sign that hung from the roof top at the Hollar Mill (estimated size 600 sq feet+), was requested to be removed by the City of Hickory Planning Department. We believe that to be the $900+ sign that was reported in the Boost Hickory financials. We were informed of this previous notification, that this sign did not comply with City Code, on Monday, October 27th. That is the reason why that sign was voluntarily taken down. The 47.5 sq. foot signs, Joe discussed with the Mayor, were put up after the Hollar Mill sign was reported and taken down.
The Bottom Line is that all the Mayor had to do was acknowledge that the signs did not comply with the ordinance and establish that they should be removed and take action to have them removed. As the Mayor, are you telling me these people would not comply with his wishes, especially when he was the person who created the signs.
Here we are 86 days later and so many convolutions and it was all so unnecessary, just because the Mayor didn't want to admit that he had it wrong. This is the person who has boasted about the City of Hickory being the most open and transparent government in the State of North Carolina and said "We are not secretive."
Here is the Hickory Daily Record article link where the Mayor finally admits that he had it wrong.
Hickory mayor: "It was a mistake." - Hickory Daily Record - Frank Bumb - January 24, 2015
Huh... Hickory Bond Booster Inconsistencies - January 22, 2015
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Saturday, January 24, 2015
Friday, January 23, 2015
Newsletter about the City Council meeting of January 20, 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.
Agenda about the City Council meeting of January 20, 2015
Thoughts about the City Council meeting of January 20, 2015 - I didn't do an article of thoughts this week. The meeting lasted a little less than 25 minutes. I will incorporate thoughts into this article.
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The Hound's Notes: I happened to be right on target with my Agenda comment that there would be a brief overview to reiterate the discussion of January 12 concerning the Bond Commission structure and formation. No one spoke for or against the proposal. Manager Berry went over the decisions of the Council. At the end of the meeting on February 3, if all goes as planned, we will find out who the people are that will be serving on this commission. We pretty much can guess who these people will be. It will be the group from Boost Hickory and/or the people who they choose to serve as their proxies.
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Invocation by Alderman Danny Seaver
Consent Agenda
New Business - Public Hearings
1. Consideration of Bond Implementation Commission Ordinance. - This public hearing was advertised in a newspaper having general circulation in the Hickory area on January 9, 2015.
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.
Agenda about the City Council meeting of January 20, 2015
Thoughts about the City Council meeting of January 20, 2015 - I didn't do an article of thoughts this week. The meeting lasted a little less than 25 minutes. I will incorporate thoughts into this article.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Hound's Notes: I happened to be right on target with my Agenda comment that there would be a brief overview to reiterate the discussion of January 12 concerning the Bond Commission structure and formation. No one spoke for or against the proposal. Manager Berry went over the decisions of the Council. At the end of the meeting on February 3, if all goes as planned, we will find out who the people are that will be serving on this commission. We pretty much can guess who these people will be. It will be the group from Boost Hickory and/or the people who they choose to serve as their proxies.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Invocation by Alderman Danny Seaver
Consent Agenda
New Business - Public Hearings
1. Consideration of Bond Implementation Commission Ordinance. - This public hearing was advertised in a newspaper having general circulation in the Hickory area on January 9, 2015.
Thursday, January 22, 2015
Huh... Hickory Bond Booster Inconsistencies
Here I am as a Citizen Journalist laying out a chain of important information that is relevant to understanding how our local government has operated. It pertains to the largest Bond initiative in the history of this community. The campaign is over and the initiative has been approved. All of that is in the rear view mirror. The purpose of this information I present to you is to shine a light on some of the previous conduct in hopes of getting a better performance as we move forward.
Our local newspaper, the Hickory Daily Record, has sold the series of events surrounding the Bond Referendum, the local government, and the Committee formed to promote the passage of the Bond Referendum, as three separate and unrelated entities and matters. They have presented the information as money related issues, when in fact it is one ongoing story about the lack of openness and transparency in this community when it comes to local governance. This in light of the fact that Hickory Inc. (and proxy Boost Hickory) has boasted about and promised the public that very openness and transparency more times than Lucy has offered up Charlie Brown an opportunity to kick a football. The HDR hasn't been able to connect the dots. They have put the information and stories in Silos.
This has nothing to do with the Mayor profiting from the Boost Hickory campaign. It has to do with an unwillingness to comply with the law that they themselves prescribe. The head of the Boost Hickory campaign is quoted in the first HDR article related to the matter, as having said that they " ...would bend over backwards to comply with the law." Yet, that group has just now submitted reports that were due weeks ago. The last check they wrote, to close out their campaign committee status, was written over a month ago. There are many inconsistencies in information as it has been presented.
The initial inconsistency was the involvement of Joe Brannock calling the Mayor to inform him about Boost Hickory's illegal campaign signs. It is interesting that the Mayor treats a private citizen in such a negative manner in print on a Saturday morning and then turns around and is almost light-hearted about the situation 48 hours later.
Boost Hickory Campaign Signs Illegal - Frank Bumb - Hickory Daily Record - October 31, 2014
Here is the audio of the conversation in question from the HDR article above. Would you describe these as leading questions? He was asked whether he was going to do anything about the signs. It is obvious that he wasn't going to do anything about it. He was asked if he saw anything wrong with Boost Hickory not voluntarily complying with the law -- a law unanimously passed by his City Council and a law he is in charge of administering. Ponder if a political opponent were not complying with such a City Code and the Mayor was aware of the non-compliance. Do you think the situation is treated differently?
Two days later during the "Monday Morning Meeting with the Mayor" on First Talk with Hal Row, the Mayor wants to talk about being recorded, but he doesn't want to talk about the subject matter of the article, 'whether the signs in question were legal or not?' Also note how this was purposefully saved for the last two minutes of the broadcast... hard for someone to call in and challenge the Mayor's assertions under such circumstances... Fair?
Our local newspaper, the Hickory Daily Record, has sold the series of events surrounding the Bond Referendum, the local government, and the Committee formed to promote the passage of the Bond Referendum, as three separate and unrelated entities and matters. They have presented the information as money related issues, when in fact it is one ongoing story about the lack of openness and transparency in this community when it comes to local governance. This in light of the fact that Hickory Inc. (and proxy Boost Hickory) has boasted about and promised the public that very openness and transparency more times than Lucy has offered up Charlie Brown an opportunity to kick a football. The HDR hasn't been able to connect the dots. They have put the information and stories in Silos.
This has nothing to do with the Mayor profiting from the Boost Hickory campaign. It has to do with an unwillingness to comply with the law that they themselves prescribe. The head of the Boost Hickory campaign is quoted in the first HDR article related to the matter, as having said that they " ...would bend over backwards to comply with the law." Yet, that group has just now submitted reports that were due weeks ago. The last check they wrote, to close out their campaign committee status, was written over a month ago. There are many inconsistencies in information as it has been presented.
The initial inconsistency was the involvement of Joe Brannock calling the Mayor to inform him about Boost Hickory's illegal campaign signs. It is interesting that the Mayor treats a private citizen in such a negative manner in print on a Saturday morning and then turns around and is almost light-hearted about the situation 48 hours later.
Boost Hickory Campaign Signs Illegal - Frank Bumb - Hickory Daily Record - October 31, 2014
Here is the audio of the conversation in question from the HDR article above. Would you describe these as leading questions? He was asked whether he was going to do anything about the signs. It is obvious that he wasn't going to do anything about it. He was asked if he saw anything wrong with Boost Hickory not voluntarily complying with the law -- a law unanimously passed by his City Council and a law he is in charge of administering. Ponder if a political opponent were not complying with such a City Code and the Mayor was aware of the non-compliance. Do you think the situation is treated differently?
Two days later during the "Monday Morning Meeting with the Mayor" on First Talk with Hal Row, the Mayor wants to talk about being recorded, but he doesn't want to talk about the subject matter of the article, 'whether the signs in question were legal or not?' Also note how this was purposefully saved for the last two minutes of the broadcast... hard for someone to call in and challenge the Mayor's assertions under such circumstances... Fair?
Saturday, January 17, 2015
Agenda about the City Council meeting of January 20, 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.
City Council Agenda - January 20, 2015
=================================================
Hound Notes: Not much here. There is a public hearing on the Bond Advisory Commission. I may be wrong, but I don't see anyone standing up to speak for or against this. I went to the Special meeting in which it was discussed this past Monday - Special City Council meeting of January 12, 2014.
There will be a reiteration of the discussions and decisions of this past Monday and the votes will be taken and two weeks from Tuesday, February 3, 2014, after the second reading this will become law and then the Commission will be formed. I'm sure that most of these slots have pretty much been determined. These are just the formalities.
=================================================
Invocation by Rev. David L. Roberts, II, Pastor, Morning Star First Baptist Church
Consent Agenda:
A. Approval of the Purchase of Ten Specialized Police Package Emergency Vehicles. - Hickory Police Department requests approval of the purchase of ten specialized police package emergency vehicles in the amount of $28,917.02 per vehicle. Police Department Staff and the City of Hickory’s Fleet Manager have researched and reviewed independent comparison studies comparing available police package vehicles. The 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe Police Package two-wheel drive best fits the needs of the department based on a number of considerations. Hickory Police Department has seven police package Chevrolet Tahoe’s in service and all have performed well with no maintenance or service issues. Hickory Police Department recommends purchase of ten rear-wheel drive Chevrolet Tahoe police package vehicles from Bobby Murray Chevrolet on the NC State contract at a cost of $28,917.02 per vehicle and a total cost of $289,170.20. Funds are budgeted in the fiscal year 2014/2015 CIP.
B. Approval of a Lease Agreement for City-owned Property to Family Care Center of Catawba Valley Inc. Located at 1471 1st Avenue SW. - Staff requests approval of a Lease Agreement with Family Care Center of Catawba Valley, Inc. to lease property owned by the City of Hickory located at 1471 1st Avenue SW, Hickory. The property has been leased to the Family Care Center for a number of years and the current lease has expired. The terms of the proposed lease will be for five years for the nominal amount of one dollar. The lease will renew on a year to year basis for up to four additional years unless notice is given by either party to terminate. The lessee will be responsible for securing its own janitorial service and maintaining the premise in good order, routine maintenance, and repairs of the property. Staff r ecommends approval of the Lease Agreement with Family Care Center of Catawba Valley, Inc.
Public Notice of Intent to Lease was advertised in a newspaper having general circulation in the Hickory area on January 9, 2015.
C. 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 2015 dates: April 10; May 29; June 12, 26; July 3, 17, 31; August 14, 28 and September 4. The following would be rain out dates: April 11; May 30; June 13, 27; July 18; August 1, 15; and September 5. 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.
D. Special Events Activities Application for Downtown Hickory Farmers’ Market 2015, Sarah T. Wood, Market Manager, Downtown Hickory Farmers’ Market, April 18 – November 28, Wednesdays and Saturdays, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., May 21 – November 19, Thursdays, 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., on Union Square.
E. Special Events Activities Application for Hickory Hops, Connie Kincaid, Executive Director, Hickory Downtown Development Association, April 25, 2015, 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., Government Avenue and 2nd Street SW.
F. Special Events Activities Application for Downtown Art Crawls, Connie Kincaid, Executive Director, Hickory Downtown Development Association, Thursday, May 21, 2015; Thursday, September 17, 2015; and Friday, October 30, 2015 from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., Union Square, 3rd Street NW, 2nd Street NW, 1st Avenue NW, 1st Avenue SW, Government Avenue SW, and 2nd Street SW.
G. Approve Acceptance of a Grant from the North Carolina Clean Energy Technology Center – New Electric Vehicle Service Equipment Charging Station on Union Square. - Staff requests approval to accept the grant award through the North Carolina Clean Energy Technology Center (NC CETC). On December 16, 2014 the City received notification of award for the purchase and installation of a new dual style electric vehicle charging station to be installed on Union Square. Upon the NC CETC board’s review of the budgetary sheet submitted in the application package, a revised total project cost was formulated and approved for award in the amount of $6,887. Under the Clean Fuel Advanced Technology (CFAT) program regarding funds, the City’s 20 percent cost for case match is $1,377 with the CFAT’s 80 percent funds at $5,510. The charging station will be installed in the southwest corner of the West Union Square parking lot near the existing power panel. Initially no fee will be charged for use, however, as use increases a card reader could be installed and a flat fee could be established. Funds are budgeted in fiscal year 2014/2015 for the project. Staff recommends acceptance of the grant award from the North Carolina Clean Energy Technology Center for the purchase of materials and installation of one electric vehicle service equipment charging station on Union Square.
H. Approval to Submit an Application for Funding through the 2015 Urgent Repair Program (URP15) to the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency. - Staff requests approval to submit an application for funding through the 2015 Urgent Repair Program (URP15) to the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency. The City of Hickory will apply for $50,000 through this program in order to assist approximately 12 eligible homes with urgently needed repairs in an amount not to exceed $7,200 per housing unit. The City of Hickory will provide $5,000 in matching funds available from Rental Rehabilitation program income. There is a $50 application fee to the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency. Staff recommends approval of submission of the 2015 Urgent Repair Program Application for Funding to the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency.
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 January 6, 2015:
Each of the following applicants are being recommended for approval under the City of Hickory’s 2014 Urgent Repair Program. This program provides qualified low income citizens with assistance for emergency related repairs not to exceed $7,200.
Madeline Cook, 1824 8th Street Drive NE, Hickory
Lou Cook, 1920 11th Avenue SE, Hickory
The Citizen’s Advisory Committee recommends approval of the aforementioned requests for assistance through the City of Hickory’s Housing Assistance Programs.
J. Approval of a Cemetery Deed Transfer from Troy Thomas Barkley and wife, Robin Havens Barkley to Grover Lee Barkley.
K. Approval of a New Hickory Public Library Collection Development Policy. - Library Staff requests approval of an updated Hickory Public Library Collection Development Policy. The current Collection Development Policy is lengthy and contains out-of-date language. The goal in developing the new policy is to simplify the content, and reiterate the principles that guide the selection process. The updated policy is necessary to ensure that the library’s collection is up-to-date, relevant, and appropriate to the community it serves. It provides a guide for librarians in choosing materials to add to the collection and affirms that all interests and viewpoints are represented. It also includes a process by which someone may challenge the inclusion of an item in the collection. The proposed policy has been reviewed by the Library Advisory Board and Deputy City Attorney Arnita Dula. The library recommends approval of an updated Hickory Public Library Collection Development Policy.
New Business - Public Hearings
1. Consideration of Bond Implementation Commission Ordinance. - This public hearing was advertised in a newspaper having general circulation in the Hickory area on January 9, 2015.
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.
City Council Agenda - January 20, 2015=================================================
Hound Notes: Not much here. There is a public hearing on the Bond Advisory Commission. I may be wrong, but I don't see anyone standing up to speak for or against this. I went to the Special meeting in which it was discussed this past Monday - Special City Council meeting of January 12, 2014.
There will be a reiteration of the discussions and decisions of this past Monday and the votes will be taken and two weeks from Tuesday, February 3, 2014, after the second reading this will become law and then the Commission will be formed. I'm sure that most of these slots have pretty much been determined. These are just the formalities.
=================================================
Invocation by Rev. David L. Roberts, II, Pastor, Morning Star First Baptist Church
Consent Agenda:
A. Approval of the Purchase of Ten Specialized Police Package Emergency Vehicles. - Hickory Police Department requests approval of the purchase of ten specialized police package emergency vehicles in the amount of $28,917.02 per vehicle. Police Department Staff and the City of Hickory’s Fleet Manager have researched and reviewed independent comparison studies comparing available police package vehicles. The 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe Police Package two-wheel drive best fits the needs of the department based on a number of considerations. Hickory Police Department has seven police package Chevrolet Tahoe’s in service and all have performed well with no maintenance or service issues. Hickory Police Department recommends purchase of ten rear-wheel drive Chevrolet Tahoe police package vehicles from Bobby Murray Chevrolet on the NC State contract at a cost of $28,917.02 per vehicle and a total cost of $289,170.20. Funds are budgeted in the fiscal year 2014/2015 CIP.
B. Approval of a Lease Agreement for City-owned Property to Family Care Center of Catawba Valley Inc. Located at 1471 1st Avenue SW. - Staff requests approval of a Lease Agreement with Family Care Center of Catawba Valley, Inc. to lease property owned by the City of Hickory located at 1471 1st Avenue SW, Hickory. The property has been leased to the Family Care Center for a number of years and the current lease has expired. The terms of the proposed lease will be for five years for the nominal amount of one dollar. The lease will renew on a year to year basis for up to four additional years unless notice is given by either party to terminate. The lessee will be responsible for securing its own janitorial service and maintaining the premise in good order, routine maintenance, and repairs of the property. Staff r ecommends approval of the Lease Agreement with Family Care Center of Catawba Valley, Inc.
Public Notice of Intent to Lease was advertised in a newspaper having general circulation in the Hickory area on January 9, 2015.
C. 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 2015 dates: April 10; May 29; June 12, 26; July 3, 17, 31; August 14, 28 and September 4. The following would be rain out dates: April 11; May 30; June 13, 27; July 18; August 1, 15; and September 5. 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.
D. Special Events Activities Application for Downtown Hickory Farmers’ Market 2015, Sarah T. Wood, Market Manager, Downtown Hickory Farmers’ Market, April 18 – November 28, Wednesdays and Saturdays, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., May 21 – November 19, Thursdays, 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., on Union Square.
E. Special Events Activities Application for Hickory Hops, Connie Kincaid, Executive Director, Hickory Downtown Development Association, April 25, 2015, 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., Government Avenue and 2nd Street SW.
F. Special Events Activities Application for Downtown Art Crawls, Connie Kincaid, Executive Director, Hickory Downtown Development Association, Thursday, May 21, 2015; Thursday, September 17, 2015; and Friday, October 30, 2015 from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., Union Square, 3rd Street NW, 2nd Street NW, 1st Avenue NW, 1st Avenue SW, Government Avenue SW, and 2nd Street SW.
G. Approve Acceptance of a Grant from the North Carolina Clean Energy Technology Center – New Electric Vehicle Service Equipment Charging Station on Union Square. - Staff requests approval to accept the grant award through the North Carolina Clean Energy Technology Center (NC CETC). On December 16, 2014 the City received notification of award for the purchase and installation of a new dual style electric vehicle charging station to be installed on Union Square. Upon the NC CETC board’s review of the budgetary sheet submitted in the application package, a revised total project cost was formulated and approved for award in the amount of $6,887. Under the Clean Fuel Advanced Technology (CFAT) program regarding funds, the City’s 20 percent cost for case match is $1,377 with the CFAT’s 80 percent funds at $5,510. The charging station will be installed in the southwest corner of the West Union Square parking lot near the existing power panel. Initially no fee will be charged for use, however, as use increases a card reader could be installed and a flat fee could be established. Funds are budgeted in fiscal year 2014/2015 for the project. Staff recommends acceptance of the grant award from the North Carolina Clean Energy Technology Center for the purchase of materials and installation of one electric vehicle service equipment charging station on Union Square.
H. Approval to Submit an Application for Funding through the 2015 Urgent Repair Program (URP15) to the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency. - Staff requests approval to submit an application for funding through the 2015 Urgent Repair Program (URP15) to the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency. The City of Hickory will apply for $50,000 through this program in order to assist approximately 12 eligible homes with urgently needed repairs in an amount not to exceed $7,200 per housing unit. The City of Hickory will provide $5,000 in matching funds available from Rental Rehabilitation program income. There is a $50 application fee to the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency. Staff recommends approval of submission of the 2015 Urgent Repair Program Application for Funding to the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency.
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 January 6, 2015:
Each of the following applicants are being recommended for approval under the City of Hickory’s 2014 Urgent Repair Program. This program provides qualified low income citizens with assistance for emergency related repairs not to exceed $7,200.
Madeline Cook, 1824 8th Street Drive NE, Hickory
Lou Cook, 1920 11th Avenue SE, Hickory
The Citizen’s Advisory Committee recommends approval of the aforementioned requests for assistance through the City of Hickory’s Housing Assistance Programs.
J. Approval of a Cemetery Deed Transfer from Troy Thomas Barkley and wife, Robin Havens Barkley to Grover Lee Barkley.
K. Approval of a New Hickory Public Library Collection Development Policy. - Library Staff requests approval of an updated Hickory Public Library Collection Development Policy. The current Collection Development Policy is lengthy and contains out-of-date language. The goal in developing the new policy is to simplify the content, and reiterate the principles that guide the selection process. The updated policy is necessary to ensure that the library’s collection is up-to-date, relevant, and appropriate to the community it serves. It provides a guide for librarians in choosing materials to add to the collection and affirms that all interests and viewpoints are represented. It also includes a process by which someone may challenge the inclusion of an item in the collection. The proposed policy has been reviewed by the Library Advisory Board and Deputy City Attorney Arnita Dula. The library recommends approval of an updated Hickory Public Library Collection Development Policy.
New Business - Public Hearings
1. Consideration of Bond Implementation Commission Ordinance. - This public hearing was advertised in a newspaper having general circulation in the Hickory area on January 9, 2015.
Wednesday, January 14, 2015
Economic Reality - What Economy? - January 14, 2015
Gerald Celente said months ago that Christmas retail sales would be negative, The numbers came out today and he was spot on.
U.S. Retail Sales Down Sharply, Likely Cuts to Growth Forecasts Ahead - Bloomberg - Victoria Stilwell - January 14, 2015 - The optimism surrounding the outlook for U.S. consumers was taken down a notch as retail sales slumped in December by the most in almost a year, prompting some economists to lower spending and growth forecasts. The 0.9 percent decline in purchases followed a 0.4 percent advance in November that was smaller than previously estimated, Commerce Department figures showed today in Washington. Last month’s decrease extended beyond any single group as receipts fell in nine of 13 major retail categories.
Paul Craig Roberts spoke about it today in an interview on the Alex Jones Show. The interview is below. I also have put Gerald Celente's interview from this past weekend on King World News below.
Paul Craig Roberts interview on the Alex Jones Show on January 14, 2015:
Gerald Celente on King World News on January 11, 2015 - Link to Audio
The Grand Manipulations are getting ready to come to an end. The lies of the government have become to extreme. 4% and 5% growth in the GDP has clearly been a lie -- a manipulation.
U.S. Retail Sales Down Sharply, Likely Cuts to Growth Forecasts Ahead - Bloomberg - Victoria Stilwell - January 14, 2015 - The optimism surrounding the outlook for U.S. consumers was taken down a notch as retail sales slumped in December by the most in almost a year, prompting some economists to lower spending and growth forecasts. The 0.9 percent decline in purchases followed a 0.4 percent advance in November that was smaller than previously estimated, Commerce Department figures showed today in Washington. Last month’s decrease extended beyond any single group as receipts fell in nine of 13 major retail categories.
Paul Craig Roberts spoke about it today in an interview on the Alex Jones Show. The interview is below. I also have put Gerald Celente's interview from this past weekend on King World News below.
Paul Craig Roberts interview on the Alex Jones Show on January 14, 2015:
Gerald Celente on King World News on January 11, 2015 - Link to Audio
The Grand Manipulations are getting ready to come to an end. The lies of the government have become to extreme. 4% and 5% growth in the GDP has clearly been a lie -- a manipulation.
Tuesday, January 13, 2015
Newsletter about the Special City Council meeting of January 12, 2014
The following meeting took place on January 12, 2015. In this special meeting, the Hickory City Council has discussions and takes votes related to the formation of a Hickory Bond Commission.
Hound Notes: There were some good discussions.
Alderman Lail asked about who would be considered for appointment, when it came to filling out an application versus a survey. Survey has 131 respondents. 172 respondents filled out an application. The survey had additional questions related to the bonds. There were questions about deadlines for applications.
There was some debate about staggered terms in relation to as to the maximum number of years someone could serve on the Commission. Mayor Wright felt 6 years was reasonable. Alderman Zagaroli seemed to believe there shouldn't be a cap. He spoke about Major contributors. Mayor Wright seemed to be in favor of a cap. Alderman Zagaroli and the others seemed to come around to the idea of 6 years cap on serving on this commission.
Alderman Lail stated that the Survey Respondent list does not match community demographics. It seemed that a decision was made that it wasn't necessary for the community demographics be representative of the commission. It was decided by especially Alderman Guess that the pool would come from survey respondents. The Council seemed to be saying that this Commission does not need to be reflective of the community's demographics. It seemed to be a general consensus that the community has had ample time and notice to seek participation on this commission.
Alderman Guess didn't want any restrictions put on the Council in naming members to the commission. Alderman Meisner concurred that he didn't want any limits, especially when it comes to residency. Alderman Lail also agreed and so did Alder Patton. The Mayor stated that he had a problem with naming just anyone to such a commission that is not a resident of Hickory. Alderman Lail didn't like the idea of putting a limit on the naming by stating the nominee must be a "Taxpayer". It was decided 5 to 2 (Mayor and Alderman Zagaroli voted - originally I didn't have Zag as a no, but reviewed my notes, the vote was not announced) that there should be no restrictions.
There was a discussion about Ex-Officio members to this Commission. It was decided that each Hickory City Boards and Commissions should have a representative per each. It was also decided that the Chamber of Commerce would be granted a member. Alder Patton had a valid point about why should the Chamber have a member and not any of the other organizations in the community, such as the Downtown Development Association. The Council voted 6 to 1 (Alder Patton dissenting) to include the Chamber, but no other organizations.
Action will be taken on January 20th at the Council meeting (public hearing). Two weeks later this becomes law.
Alderman Guess asked about people having to provide public information to apply to serve on the Commission. He was told that it is and must be on the public record and it is stated on the application. Attorney Crone and Manager Berry stated that the meetings are open to the public and will be on the public record. Further discussion led to interjection about the nominees for these positions being announced at a Council meeting -- presumably the first Council meeting after the ordinance becomes law... February 3, 2015 (???).
It was eventually decided that each Council member and the Mayor would have 4 appointments to the Commission. It seems as though there will be approximately 39 people serving on this Commission.
Hound's Bottom Line: You make the call. Does this sound effective?
Hound Notes: There were some good discussions.
Alderman Lail asked about who would be considered for appointment, when it came to filling out an application versus a survey. Survey has 131 respondents. 172 respondents filled out an application. The survey had additional questions related to the bonds. There were questions about deadlines for applications.
There was some debate about staggered terms in relation to as to the maximum number of years someone could serve on the Commission. Mayor Wright felt 6 years was reasonable. Alderman Zagaroli seemed to believe there shouldn't be a cap. He spoke about Major contributors. Mayor Wright seemed to be in favor of a cap. Alderman Zagaroli and the others seemed to come around to the idea of 6 years cap on serving on this commission.
Alderman Lail stated that the Survey Respondent list does not match community demographics. It seemed that a decision was made that it wasn't necessary for the community demographics be representative of the commission. It was decided by especially Alderman Guess that the pool would come from survey respondents. The Council seemed to be saying that this Commission does not need to be reflective of the community's demographics. It seemed to be a general consensus that the community has had ample time and notice to seek participation on this commission.
Alderman Guess didn't want any restrictions put on the Council in naming members to the commission. Alderman Meisner concurred that he didn't want any limits, especially when it comes to residency. Alderman Lail also agreed and so did Alder Patton. The Mayor stated that he had a problem with naming just anyone to such a commission that is not a resident of Hickory. Alderman Lail didn't like the idea of putting a limit on the naming by stating the nominee must be a "Taxpayer". It was decided 5 to 2 (Mayor and Alderman Zagaroli voted - originally I didn't have Zag as a no, but reviewed my notes, the vote was not announced) that there should be no restrictions.
There was a discussion about Ex-Officio members to this Commission. It was decided that each Hickory City Boards and Commissions should have a representative per each. It was also decided that the Chamber of Commerce would be granted a member. Alder Patton had a valid point about why should the Chamber have a member and not any of the other organizations in the community, such as the Downtown Development Association. The Council voted 6 to 1 (Alder Patton dissenting) to include the Chamber, but no other organizations.
Action will be taken on January 20th at the Council meeting (public hearing). Two weeks later this becomes law.
Alderman Guess asked about people having to provide public information to apply to serve on the Commission. He was told that it is and must be on the public record and it is stated on the application. Attorney Crone and Manager Berry stated that the meetings are open to the public and will be on the public record. Further discussion led to interjection about the nominees for these positions being announced at a Council meeting -- presumably the first Council meeting after the ordinance becomes law... February 3, 2015 (???).
It was eventually decided that each Council member and the Mayor would have 4 appointments to the Commission. It seems as though there will be approximately 39 people serving on this Commission.
Hound's Bottom Line: You make the call. Does this sound effective?
Saturday, January 10, 2015
Newsletter about the City Council meeting of January 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.
Agenda about the City Council meeting of January 6, 2015
Thoughts about the City Council meeting of January 6, 2015 - I didn't do an article of thoughts this week. I will incorporate thoughts into this article.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Hound's Notes: Meeting started out with the Discussion of the "Friends" Downtown Park. Seems that they want recognition by Hickory Inc. more than any approval.
I will add a few more comments later. You can come back to read them and there are also comments below.
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Invocation by Rev. Will Posey, Associate Pastor, First United Methodist Church
*** Special Presentations - None
Consent Agenda:
Item E was asked to be removed from the Consent Agenda by the Mayor
E. Approval of a Lease Agreement for City-owned Property to Hickory Soup Kitchen, Inc. Located at 131 Main Avenue NE. - Staff requests approval of a Lease agreement with Hickory Soup Kitchen, Inc. to lease property owned by the City of Hickory located at 131 Main Avenue NE, Hickory. The property has been leased to the Hickory Soup Kitchen for a number of years, and the current lease has expired. The lease will be a two year term expiring December 30, 2016 and a nominal fee of one dollar. The lessee will be responsible for the payment of all utilities furnished, securing its own janitorial service, maintaining the premise in good order, and routine maintenance and repairs of the property. Staff recommends approval of the Lease Agreement with Hickory Soup Kitchen Inc.
Mayor's Concern was about what the Soup Kitchen would purpose this building for once they move into their new facility (relocate). Should lease be terminated once they vacate the building. Alderman Lail's stated that the lease will be terminated 30 days upon notice by the lessee (Hickory Soup Kitchen). They can keep control of the property until notice, but they have to use it for its intended purpose or the lease is negated. After discussion the item was approved unanimously.
New Business - Public Hearings
1. Consideration of Closing a Portion of 3rd Street SE and Two Unopened Right of Ways as Shown in Plat Book 4, at Page 78, Catawba County Registry. - The City Clerk received a petition on November 5, 2014, from Attorney Beth Williams, on behalf of the owners OHM Holdings, LLC and Hickory Trading Group LLC. The petition requests the City close said portion of 3rd Street SE, and two unopened right of ways as shown on Plat Book 4 at Page 78, Catawba County Registry. The signatures on the petition represents two of three property owners abutting this portion of the right of ways. The petition fee of $575 has been paid.
New Business - Departmental Reports:
1. Friends of Hickory Park Proposal Update and Parking Analysis. - Consideration of the Friends of Hickory Downtown Park proposal specifically including:
1) approval for the Friends of Hickory to move forward with private fundraising and
2) direct City staff to move forward with the parking lot and alley right-of-way closures at the appropriate time.
Hound Notes: Alderman Lail brought it to the attention of the Council that his wife works for the company designing this project. That was commendable. Land Design, the company, is also the company that is very heavily involved in the "Linear Park" development, which will connect Union Square to the Wingfoot area, and Lenoir-Rhyne. Attorney Crone said that there was a very small chance that there would be any conflict and that it is Alderman Lail's duty to vote on the issue.
I do not concur with Attorney Crone's interpretation. 1) If Alderman Lail's spouse's company is benefiting from a project that the City Incorporated has involvement in or is in some way directing, then there is a conflict. 2) Alderman Lail's vote is his vote. He can choose to remove himself from the process. At the end of the day, his constituents will choose whether or not he has acted in their interests. 3) No one challenges Hickory Inc. legal interpretations because of Cost/Benefit. Hickory Inc. has taxpaid attorneys. If you choose to challenge their interpretation, then you have to pay for an attorney and also go find an attorney willing to stand up against the local system. Most of the attorneys here in Hickory aren't going to do that... And herein lies the crux of the mess (and there is even more to it than this) that are the rampant Conflicts of Interest that pillage the community.
As the plaintiff, what is the benefit if you win? You lay out this money. If the Judge declares for you, then he slaps the local government on the wrist and says don't do this again. In my opinion, they will just go back to business as usual and wait for someone to challenge them again, because they have free legal representation and there is no monetary penalty or criminal punishment and not many people in the public care or are aware of these conflicts. Heck, I'm ostracized for even pointing out something so obvious.
Hound's Bottom Line: The Hound does not agree with Attorney Crone.
2. Consideration of Facility Naming Rights Opportunities by the Greater Hickory Tennis Association (GHTA) for Tennis Complex Improvements at Hickory City Park. The City’s Financial Commitment is estimated to be $449,200. - Greater Hickory Tennis Association (GHTA) has committed to fund a minimum of $125,000 towards the cost of the tennis complex improvements over a five year time period. In ord er to raise their committed funds, GHTA seeks to sell facility naming rights. Following are GHTA’s requested facility naming rights opportunities at Hickory City Park:
1) Naming rights to the park = $200,000;
2) Naming rights to each of eight tennis courts = $10,000;
3) Naming rights to the picnic shelter/restroom/meeting room facility = $28,000. The naming rights opportunities would be valid for a twenty (20) year period. All facility naming rights opportunities obtained by GHTA would require the formal approval of City Council through a recommendation of the Parks and Recreation Commission.
Kathy Kim's Tennis Program - "Explosion of Tennis"
Current Site Conditions
Proposed Tennis Complex improvements - Master Site Plan
Tony Wood of the Parks and Rec Commission and Lenny Teague of GHTA address the Council
Hickory City Council Musings
Mac McLeod, Parks and Rec, recommendations
Hound's Bottom Line: This is great and along the lines of what I have suggested before, but why could the same type of effort not have taken place to save the swimming pools, or at least one of the swimming pools, five years ago. I also suggested similar partnerships when it came to graffiti removal and city beautification. Real public-private partnerships.
3. Discussion of Bond Commission Ordinance and Call for Public Hearing.
Mick Berry, City Manager, overview of the Bond Commission
Preamble of the Commission
Business Park outside the purview of this commission
Composition and appointment of the Commission
Mayor Wright states that if he were a candidate, he would hate having his candidacy publicly discussed
Terms of Members
Officers and Duties
Mission, purpose, objectives, vision
Members within the City and from the ETJ - this leads into a council discussion about appointments inside and outside wards, and appointments of ETJ residents.
*** No Decisions were made on this night.
4. Discussion of Revaluation Numbers and the Revenue Neutral Rate.
Warren Wood presents information about the property tax rate - might impact next year's tax rate.
Loss of privilege license.
Fund balance tapped for increase in expenses in the current budget.
Catawba County shows Hickory Real Values dropped 6.6%
Commercial - 10% ... Industrial - 14% ... Residential - 3% (Worse than County average)
Revenue neutral Tax Rate is estimated to be .5395 cents per $100 is assessed value.
Mayor Wright states that residential property owners are going to bear more of the burden.
NC General Assembly on Privilege License
Reduction in Appropriated Balance Fund
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.
Agenda about the City Council meeting of January 6, 2015
Thoughts about the City Council meeting of January 6, 2015 - I didn't do an article of thoughts this week. I will incorporate thoughts into this article.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Hound's Notes: Meeting started out with the Discussion of the "Friends" Downtown Park. Seems that they want recognition by Hickory Inc. more than any approval.
I will add a few more comments later. You can come back to read them and there are also comments below.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Invocation by Rev. Will Posey, Associate Pastor, First United Methodist Church
*** Special Presentations - None
Consent Agenda:
Item E was asked to be removed from the Consent Agenda by the Mayor
E. Approval of a Lease Agreement for City-owned Property to Hickory Soup Kitchen, Inc. Located at 131 Main Avenue NE. - Staff requests approval of a Lease agreement with Hickory Soup Kitchen, Inc. to lease property owned by the City of Hickory located at 131 Main Avenue NE, Hickory. The property has been leased to the Hickory Soup Kitchen for a number of years, and the current lease has expired. The lease will be a two year term expiring December 30, 2016 and a nominal fee of one dollar. The lessee will be responsible for the payment of all utilities furnished, securing its own janitorial service, maintaining the premise in good order, and routine maintenance and repairs of the property. Staff recommends approval of the Lease Agreement with Hickory Soup Kitchen Inc.
Mayor's Concern was about what the Soup Kitchen would purpose this building for once they move into their new facility (relocate). Should lease be terminated once they vacate the building. Alderman Lail's stated that the lease will be terminated 30 days upon notice by the lessee (Hickory Soup Kitchen). They can keep control of the property until notice, but they have to use it for its intended purpose or the lease is negated. After discussion the item was approved unanimously.
New Business - Public Hearings
1. Consideration of Closing a Portion of 3rd Street SE and Two Unopened Right of Ways as Shown in Plat Book 4, at Page 78, Catawba County Registry. - The City Clerk received a petition on November 5, 2014, from Attorney Beth Williams, on behalf of the owners OHM Holdings, LLC and Hickory Trading Group LLC. The petition requests the City close said portion of 3rd Street SE, and two unopened right of ways as shown on Plat Book 4 at Page 78, Catawba County Registry. The signatures on the petition represents two of three property owners abutting this portion of the right of ways. The petition fee of $575 has been paid.
New Business - Departmental Reports:
1. Friends of Hickory Park Proposal Update and Parking Analysis. - Consideration of the Friends of Hickory Downtown Park proposal specifically including:
1) approval for the Friends of Hickory to move forward with private fundraising and
2) direct City staff to move forward with the parking lot and alley right-of-way closures at the appropriate time.
Hound Notes: Alderman Lail brought it to the attention of the Council that his wife works for the company designing this project. That was commendable. Land Design, the company, is also the company that is very heavily involved in the "Linear Park" development, which will connect Union Square to the Wingfoot area, and Lenoir-Rhyne. Attorney Crone said that there was a very small chance that there would be any conflict and that it is Alderman Lail's duty to vote on the issue.
I do not concur with Attorney Crone's interpretation. 1) If Alderman Lail's spouse's company is benefiting from a project that the City Incorporated has involvement in or is in some way directing, then there is a conflict. 2) Alderman Lail's vote is his vote. He can choose to remove himself from the process. At the end of the day, his constituents will choose whether or not he has acted in their interests. 3) No one challenges Hickory Inc. legal interpretations because of Cost/Benefit. Hickory Inc. has taxpaid attorneys. If you choose to challenge their interpretation, then you have to pay for an attorney and also go find an attorney willing to stand up against the local system. Most of the attorneys here in Hickory aren't going to do that... And herein lies the crux of the mess (and there is even more to it than this) that are the rampant Conflicts of Interest that pillage the community.
As the plaintiff, what is the benefit if you win? You lay out this money. If the Judge declares for you, then he slaps the local government on the wrist and says don't do this again. In my opinion, they will just go back to business as usual and wait for someone to challenge them again, because they have free legal representation and there is no monetary penalty or criminal punishment and not many people in the public care or are aware of these conflicts. Heck, I'm ostracized for even pointing out something so obvious.
Hound's Bottom Line: The Hound does not agree with Attorney Crone.
2. Consideration of Facility Naming Rights Opportunities by the Greater Hickory Tennis Association (GHTA) for Tennis Complex Improvements at Hickory City Park. The City’s Financial Commitment is estimated to be $449,200. - Greater Hickory Tennis Association (GHTA) has committed to fund a minimum of $125,000 towards the cost of the tennis complex improvements over a five year time period. In ord er to raise their committed funds, GHTA seeks to sell facility naming rights. Following are GHTA’s requested facility naming rights opportunities at Hickory City Park:
1) Naming rights to the park = $200,000;
2) Naming rights to each of eight tennis courts = $10,000;
3) Naming rights to the picnic shelter/restroom/meeting room facility = $28,000. The naming rights opportunities would be valid for a twenty (20) year period. All facility naming rights opportunities obtained by GHTA would require the formal approval of City Council through a recommendation of the Parks and Recreation Commission.
Kathy Kim's Tennis Program - "Explosion of Tennis"
Current Site Conditions
Proposed Tennis Complex improvements - Master Site Plan
Tony Wood of the Parks and Rec Commission and Lenny Teague of GHTA address the Council
Hickory City Council Musings
Mac McLeod, Parks and Rec, recommendations
Hound's Bottom Line: This is great and along the lines of what I have suggested before, but why could the same type of effort not have taken place to save the swimming pools, or at least one of the swimming pools, five years ago. I also suggested similar partnerships when it came to graffiti removal and city beautification. Real public-private partnerships.
3. Discussion of Bond Commission Ordinance and Call for Public Hearing.
Mick Berry, City Manager, overview of the Bond Commission
Preamble of the Commission
Business Park outside the purview of this commission
Composition and appointment of the Commission
Mayor Wright states that if he were a candidate, he would hate having his candidacy publicly discussed
Terms of Members
Officers and Duties
Mission, purpose, objectives, vision
Members within the City and from the ETJ - this leads into a council discussion about appointments inside and outside wards, and appointments of ETJ residents.
*** No Decisions were made on this night.
4. Discussion of Revaluation Numbers and the Revenue Neutral Rate.
Warren Wood presents information about the property tax rate - might impact next year's tax rate.
Loss of privilege license.
Fund balance tapped for increase in expenses in the current budget.
Catawba County shows Hickory Real Values dropped 6.6%
Commercial - 10% ... Industrial - 14% ... Residential - 3% (Worse than County average)
Revenue neutral Tax Rate is estimated to be .5395 cents per $100 is assessed value.
Mayor Wright states that residential property owners are going to bear more of the burden.
NC General Assembly on Privilege License
Reduction in Appropriated Balance Fund
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