This Agenda is about the Hickory City Council meeting that took place on the date listed above. City council meetings are held on the first and third Tuesdays of each Month in the Council Chambers of the Julian Whitener building.
At right of this page under Main Information links is an Hickory's City Website link. If you click on that link, it takes you to our city’s website/ The City's website evolves over time, but currently towrds the top right there is a Link called Quick Links. Click that on and look for the Agenda's and Minutes link you need to click. Scroll down from there and this will show you a list of PDF files to upcoming and previous meetings.
Agendas show what is on the docket for the meeting of that date. The Minutes is an actual summary of the proceedings of the meeting of that date. You can also look in the upper right hand corner of the front page of the Hickory Hound and (will soon) find the link to the past history of Hickory City Newsletters.
Here is a summary of the agenda of the meeting. There were a couple of important items that were discussed at this meeting and the details are listed further below:
Please remember that pressing Ctrl and + will magnify the text and page and pressing Ctrl and - will make the text and page smaller. This will help the readability for those with smaller screens and/or eye difficulties.
=================================================
Hound Notes - Looks like we are going to see a "Not in my backyard" moment during Persons Requesting to be Heard about a proposed Public Housing Complex on 4th Street SW. Isn't the Apartment complex on 4th Street NW the same type of project? We haven't seen people coming forward against that complex -- YET.
Along the lines of economic reality --
The following is my interpretation of David Stockman's most recent interview on King World News (May 15, 2015). David Stockman was the Former Director of the US Office of Management and Budget (USOMB) during the Reagan administration. He helped direct policies that pulled the U.S. out of a deep Inflationary recession that lasted from the mid 1970s to the early 1980s.
One bad financial report after another continue to be reported here in the first half of 2015. We are in a deep Recession (actually Depression) that has been covered over with money printing, speculative gambling, and fraud. There is no way out -- Well, other than to pretend or be ignorant...
The money printing we have seen has led to Financial Inflation. That is what we have seen in the Stock and Bond Markets with their run-ups since the Financial Collapse of 2008. We are entering a phase where we will see a crisis in confidence lead to a profound political crisis.
David Stockman is calling for a deflation in assets related to malinvestment. Stocks and Bonds have depended on speculative growth to infinity. When investors come to the realization that assets are overvalued, then the bottom will fall out of the stock and bond markets. Look for the next leg down in this Economic Depression to be spectacular. The Central Banks are getting increasingly desperate and fully understand the Bubble that they have created.
We are near the end, but the Central Banksters and Politicos will look to do something -- Think Bail-ins where they depreciate the currency by skimming from your bank and financial accounts.
David Stockman interview on King World News
=================================================
Invocation Rev. Jay Robison, Pastor, Viewmont Baptist Church
Special Presentations
A. Business Well Crafted Award to CBSA Architects presented by Business Development Committee
Persons Requesting to Be Heard
A. Delores Hammer, Proposed Public Housing Complex on 4th Street SW
B. Crystal Rogers, Proposed Public Housing Complex on 4th Street SW
C. Paul Gadd, Proposed Public Housing Complex on 4th Street SW
D. Mary Yount, Proposed Public Housing Complex on 4th Street SW
E. Kim Clarke, Proposed Public Housing Complex on 4th Street SW
Consent Agenda:
A. Request to Accept Donation from Department of Homeland Security.- Hickory Police Department requests approval to accept the donation of three armor vests from the Department of Homeland Security for the Narcotic Unit. The approximate cost of each vest would be $1,500 for a total of $4,500. The Narcotics Unit works with Homeland Security on a continual basis and can use the specialty ballistic vests when there is a need to enter a home or business in a possible dangerous situation. These vests are ultra-lightweight and have thin plate carriers providing the ultimate protection and comfort for the officers while he or she is performing his or her job. Hickory Police Department recommends approval to accept the donation of three ballistic vests from Department of Homeland Security for use by the Narcotic Unit.
B. Approve the Transfer of a Cemetery Deed from Barbara F. Miller and spouse, Glenn E. Miller by and through his Attorney-in-Fact, Randy Allan Miller to James D. Dietz Jr.,
C. Approve the Transfer of a Cemetery Deed from Barbara F. Miller and spouse, Glenn E. Miller by and through his Attorney-in-Fact, Randy Allan Miller to Arlen DeVenney Nicolls,
D. Approve the Transfer of a Cemetery Deed from Stephen D. Shores and wife, Susan C. Shores; David H. Shores, and wife, Janet H. Shores; Robert B. Shores and wife, Melanie G. Shores; James W. Shores and wife, Carol E. Anderson to Alvin Godfrey Stout and wife, Nancy Dale Kinney-Stout
E. Approve the Transfer of a Cemetery Deed from Fred S. Gachet, Jr. and wife, Shirley Ann Gachet to Avis O. Gachet,
F. Approve the Transfer of a Cemetery Deed from Barbara F. Miller and spouse, Glenn E. Miller, by and through his Attorney-in-Fact, Randy Allan Miller to John Daniel Huss
G. Approval of a Proclamation for National American Public Works Week, May 17-23, 2015.
H. Special Events/Activities Application Hickory Choral Society (HCS) Pops Concert, Mandy Pitts, Communications Director/Brand Manager, June 7, 2015 from 2:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Sails on the Square Stage in Downtown Hickory.
I. Special Events/Activities Application Carolina Orthopaedic Specialists’ Oktoberfest 5K Footrace & Fun Run, Robin Lutz, Marketing Director, Carolina Orthopaedic Specialists, October 10, 2015 5:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., 76 North Center Street.
J. Special Events/Activities Application Human Relations Award Well Crafted Evening Under the Sails, Captain Thurman Whisnant, Hickory Police Department, May 28, 2015 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Sails on the Square in Downtown Hickory.
K. Special Events/Activities Application Hart & Soul 5K, Deena Whitener, Mountain View Elementary PTO, July 18, 2015 from 6:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., Hickory Regional Airport, 3101 9th Avenue Drive, Hickory.
L. Special Events/Activities Application Schmoozapalooza at Tastin’ Tunes & Tomatoes, Lindsay M. Keisler, SVP, Catawba County Chamber of Commerce, June 18, 2015 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Union Square by the Sails.
M. Approval of a Contract with Hickory Metro Convention Center in the Amount of $2,233 for the Annual Coworker Appreciation Event and Service Awards. - Staff requests approval of a contract with Hickory Metro Convention Center in the amount of $2,233 to reserve an event date. This event is held annually to celebrate the service given by City employees and to thank them for a “job well-done”. There is also a recognition of service milestones, accomplishments and projects throughout the City and a chance to get all coworkers together in a relaxed and celebratory atmosphere. Costs for the event are budgeted. Staff recommends Council’s approval of the contract with Hickory Metro Convention Center.
N. Acceptance of a Grant Awarded by the North Carolina Department of Transportation in the Amount of $180,000. - Staff requests approval to accept Grant 36244.33.12.1 awarded by the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) in the amount of $180,000 for future land acquisition and obstruction removal at the Hickory Regional Airport. On November 5, 2013 City Council Approved the Hickory Regional Airport’s Transportation Improvement Program submittal for FY2015-2012 to the NCDOT. It included specific future capital project improvements for the airport. Land acquisition and obstruction removal were part of that submittal to allow for a safe glide path for a 600 foot extension of Runway 6. A letter dated March 19, 2015 from NCDOT allocates State funds via Grant 36244.33.12.1
with the State share of $180,000 and the local share of $20,000 for land acquisition and obstruction removal. Staff recommends City Council’s acceptance of Grant 36244.33.12.1 in the amount of $180,000 from the North Carolina Department of Transportation.
O. Citizens’ Advisory Committee Recommendations for Assistance through the City of Hickory’s Housing Programs. - The following request was considered by the Citizens’ Advisory Committee at their regular meeting on May 7, 2015:
Jackie Robinson, 632 1st Avenue Place SE, Hickory was awarded a City of Hickory’s Housing Rehabilitation Loan. The Citizens’ Advisory Committee recommends approval for assistance not to exceed $15,000.00 for repairs to her house. Assistance would be in the form of a 0% interest deferred loan. Funds are budgeted for these items through the City of Hickory’s former Rental Rehabilitation program income and/or program income received through the City of Hickory’s Community Development Block Grant Program. Each of the following applicants are being recommended for approval for assistance 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.
Jessie Streeter, 1304 9th Avenue SE, Hickory
Steve Crowder, 844 7th Avenue SW, Hickory
Debora Jenkins, 2013 13th Avenue NE, Hickory
Vickesha Lawrence, 1407 16th Avenue NE, Hickory
The Citizens’ Advisory Committee recommends approval of the aforementioned requests for assistance through the City of Hickory’s housing assistance programs.
P. Acceptance of the Brownfields Area-Wide Planning Grant in the Amount of $200,000. - The Brownfields Area-wide Planning Grant provides grants of up to $200,000 to develop a plan for a small area that contains multiple known or suspect Brownfield sites. These plans will typically focus on a neighborhood or district. The plan will focus on the cleanup and reuse of one or more catalyst sites. The City’s grant application would focus on an area that generally includes the vicinity of US 70 between US 321 and South Center Street. This area was discussed as a potential focus area by the Brownfields Advisory Group. There is no required match associated with this grant. Staff recommends City Council’s approval to accept the Brownfields Area-wide Planning Grant in the amount of $200,000.
Q. Acceptance of a Cemetery Deed Conveying Exchanged Plots. - In July 1989, Joyce and Turner King purchased two grave plots in Oakwood Cemetery. In October 2000 the King’s decided that they needed four connected plots. They exchanged their two plots for tow plots in a four grave block and also purchased the remaining two plots in order to have four total connect plots. The two plots they exchanged were never conveyed back to the City via a Cemetery Deed. Staff recommends Council accept the Cemetery Deed conveying the exchanged plots back to the City of Hickory.
R. Approval of the Purchase of 600 Radio Read Water Meters from HD Supply, Inc. in the Amount of $105,000. - Staff requests Council’s approval for the purchase of 600 radio read water meters from HD Supply, Inc. from surplus stock. HD Supply has 600 radio read meters from an order that was cancelled from another customer. These meters match City of Hickory’s specifications and Staff has negotiated a price of $175 each or $105,000. Annually radio read meters are purchased to replace manual read meters to increase efficiencies by removing a source of human error upon entry and streamlining the reading process by partially automating with available technology. Purchase of these meters will represent an $8,400 savings for the Public Utilities Department for a regularly purchased
commodity from the normal bulk purchase price of $189 per meter. Staff recommends Council’s approval for the purchase of 600 radio read water meters from HD Supply, Inc., in the amount of $105,000. The meters would be purchased from Water and Sewer Fund Balance.
S. Approval of Change Order Number One with Hickory Sand Company, Inc. in the Amount of $82,410. - The Maple Place Pump Station was constructed in 1988 to provide sanitary sewer service to this residential subdivision by the developers and donated to the City of Hickory. The subdivision is predominantly developed with approximately three or four lots remaining for development. Change order one for the Maple Place Pump Station replacement project consists of nine items related to easement negotiation and unanticipated conditions that have arisen during construction. Included in this change order is $24,100 for blasting and excavation of 290 cubic yards of rock necessary to install the sanitary sewer line, force main, and water line. All other items are related to easement negotiations ($15,300) or unanticipated conditions which have arisen through construction activities. The revised contract total to date will be $302,160. Funds for this change order will be taken from the Water and Sewer Capital Reserve. Staff recommends approval of change order one with Hickory Sand Company, Inc. for construction of the Maple Place Pump station replacement project in the amount of $82,410.
T. Approve Modification of Special Events/Activities Application for June and September Sails Original Music Series. - Staff requests modifying the Special Events/Activities Application to allow wineries in the Hickory Metro area to apply to sell locally crafted wine during the Sails Original Music Series on Friday nights in June and September 2015. An agreement between the City and the local winery, as well as a special permit from North Carolina ABC and insurance must be submitted from the winery to the City along with a $25 feet to serve during a 2015 City sponsored event. Citizens have requested that wine be sold in the roped off area that the City puts up around the Sails on the Square Music Stage, where beer is currently sold and consumed. Staff recommends approval of the modification to allow local wineries in the Hickory Metro to serve locally crafted wine at the Sails Original Music Series on Fridays in June and September between 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. under the Sails on the Square in Downtown Hickory during the City sponsored event.
U. Grant Project Ordinance Number 8.
1. To budget a $200,000 NC Department of Transportation – Division of Aviation State Grant for future land acquisition and obstruction removal. The total project is $200,000 with 90 percent funded by the State ($180,000) and a required 10 percent local match of $20,000 funded by General Fund-Fund Balance).
V. Grant Project Ordinance Amendment Number 5.
1. To accept a $225,223 transfer of General Capital Reserve Fund to the Miscellaneous Storm Grant Project. The total project expenses will be $360,381. Federal and State FEMA funding will cover $135,158 and the remaining balance of $225,223 will be funded by the General Capital Reserve Fund.
2. To accept a $346,728 transfer of General Capital Reserve Fund to the Windridge Bridge Grant Project. The total project expenses will be $1,208,501. Federal and State FEMA funding will cover $861,773 and the remaining balance of $346,727 will be funded by the General Capital Reserve Fund.
W. Capital Project Ordinance Amendment Number 5.
1. To accept a $61,450 transfer of Water and Sewer Capital Reserve-Appropriated Fund Balance to the Water and Sewer Capital Project Engineering Services line item. This transfer is to pay McGill and Associates for Professional Services for the Geitner Basin Outfall Replacement project.
2. To accept a $19,100 transfer from the Water and Sewer Fund-Sewer Lines to the
Murray Basin Capital Project. This transfer is necessary to pay for the railroad permit fees from Norfolk Southern.
3. To accept a $9,406 transfer back to the General Capital Reserve Fund to close the Henry Fork Field Lighting project. There is a $125,000 deferred revenue donation from CVYSA due in FY18 therefore a receivable account will be set up in the General Fund.
X. Budget Ordinance Amendment Number 19.
1. To budget a total of $50 of Library donations from Margie Owsley in honor of Mary Ellen Snodgrass.
2. To budget a total of $1,500 of Parks and Recreation donations in their Departmental Supplies line item. These funds are for the Unifour Senior Games.
3. To budget a total of $7,341 of Parks and Recreation donations in their Departmental Supplies line item. These funds are for the Unifour Senior Games Registrations.
4. To transfer $19,100 from the Water and Sewer Fund-Sewer Lines to the Murray Basin Capital Project. This transfer is necessary to pay for the railroad permit fees from Norfolk Southern.
5. To transfer $27,000 from Water and Sewer Contingency to the Sewer Treatment line item to cover this line item for the remainder of this fiscal year. This is for the treatment and processing of sanitary sewer that is transported to the City of Conover from Hickory for treatment prior to discharge.
6. To transfer $9,406 back to the General Capital Reserve Fund to close the Henry Fork Field Lighting project. There is a $125,000 deferred revenue donation from CVYSA due in FY18 therefore a receivable account will be set up in the General Fund.
7. To appropriate $225,223 of General Capital Reserve Fund and transfer to the Miscellaneous Storm Grant Project. The total project expenses will be $360,381. Federal and State FEMA funding will cover $135,158 and the remaining balance of $225,223 will be funded by the General Capital Reserve Fund.
8. To appropriate $346,728 of General Capital Reserve Fund and transfer to the Windridge Bridge Grant Project. The total project expenses will be $1,208,501. Federal and State FEMA funding will cover $861,773 and the remaining balance of $346,727 will be funded by the General Capital Reserve Fund.
9. To transfer $105,000 of Water and Sewer Fund Balance to the Water and Sewer Pipes, Hydrants and Meters line item. This transfer is needed to pay for the purchase of 600 Radio Read Water Meters at a significant price savings.
10. To transfer $61,450 of Water and Sewer Capital Reserve-Appropriated Fund Balance to the Water and Sewer Capital Project Engineering Services line item. This transfer is to pay McGill and Associates for Professional Services for the Geitner Basin Outfall Replacement project.
11. To transfer $20,000 of General Fund-Appropriated Fund Balance to the Airport Grant project for future land acquisition and obstruction removal. The total project is $200,000 with 90% funded by the State ($180) and a required 10% local match of $20,000.
New Business - Departmental Reports:
1. Cloninger Mill Property Update/North Carolina Outward Bound School (NCOBS) - Recently the North Carolina Outward Bound School (NCOBS), a nonprofit provider of outdoor and experiential education, approached staff with a request that Council take the 10.1 acres off the commercial market and dedicate the parcel solely for park use. The organization is proposing Council enter into a Declaration of Covenants and Restrictions (‘Declaration”) which will conserve the parcel in perpetuity by placing certain covenants and restrictions on the affected property. In exchange for Council entering into the Declaration, NCOBS will make a monetary donation of $900,000 to be used to develop the property as a park. The proposed donation is not an offer from NCOBS to purchase the property. The City will retain ownership of the property.
2. Presentation of City Manager’s FY2015-2016 Recommended Budget. (Authorize Public Hearing for June 2, 2015, at 7:00 p.m. in Council Chambers of the Julian G. Whitener Municipal Building). The 2015-2016 Recommended Annual Budget will be distributed to City Council as required by law and be available for review in the Office of the City Clerk, Patrick Beaver Memorial Library, Ridgeview Library and the City’s website (hickorync.gov)
|
| Join To Get Blog Update Notices |
| Visit the Hickory Hound Group |
Monday, May 18, 2015
Wednesday, May 13, 2015
20150512 - Hickory City Council (Special meeting)
This was a special meeting held in conjunction with the Hickory Parks and Recreation Commission related to the Deidra Lackey Conservancy to be located along Lake Hickory at Geitner Park. The Lackey family was in attendance.
DEIDRA LACKEY MEMORIAL PARK Master Plan (PDF)
DEIDRA LACKEY MEMORIAL PARK Master Plan (PDF)
Thursday, May 7, 2015
Newsletter about the City Council meeting of May 5, 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 May 5, 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 May 5, 2015
Hound Notes: This meeting lasted nearly an hour and a half. I have notes below related to what happened during the meeting. It was more interesting than I thought it would be. You can see for yourself. The Links to the direct points of the meeting are below.
==================================================
Invocation by Paul Robinson of Viewmont Baptist Church
Special Presentations
A. Proclamation for National Police Week 2015. - Captain Reed Baer accepted the proclamation.
B. Proclamation for Building Safety Month, May 2015. - Bobby Baker of Code Enforcement accepted the proclamation.
Person requesting to be Heard
Larry Pope - (Per Hickory Inc.) - Mr. Larry Pope discussed North Carolina House Bill 193 with Council, and requested Councils support of the Bill.
Hound Notes: There was a back and forth between the Mayor and Mr. Pope after the Mayor began commenting on what Mr. Pope had commented on during his time at the podium after Mr. Pope had left the podium. This is not the first, second, or third time that this has happened. I can assure you that the Mayor and the Council generally don't address what someone has said during their time at the podium and 99% of the time they do not have a back and forth discussion with the person at the podium, unless the address has been of an overly friendly/supportive nature.
House Bill 193 text
We haven't seen much of a discussion here in Hickory about the proposed House Bill 193, but here is a link to a segment on WTVD Durham news regarding this proposed House Bill.
I personally don't think this proposed bill does enough. The Police forces in our communities are not really the problem. The problem is the government in general. The government, as it stands now, is not accountable. The government no longer represents the people. It represents itself. We have lost our checks and balances against the government. One thing you can rest assured about, the government will always protect the government, unless something so egregious occurs that the safety/validity of the government gets called into question and/or a majority of the governmental forces just decide they want to throw someone under the bus. It is no different than any other corporation, other than they are legally sanctioned to enforce their rules with the guns, armor, and the machinery of warfare.
One other note: Check out how the Mayor, the City Manager, and Alderman Meisner dismiss Mr. Pope outright. They don't say they will look into the matter and I didn't witness any objectivity related to the issue. A message was sent that they were there to shut Mr. Pope down outright. There was no statesmanship displayed by any of these men on this particular occasion. Why do we see this action on this occasion or have we seen it on other occasions?
And in my opinion here is what we need to see
Platform for a 21st Century Hickory - New Rules on Conflicts of Interest
Consent Agenda:
Item C was removed from the Consent agenda by Alderman Lail. The issue was briefly discussed before being unanimously agreed to by the council. The rest of the Agenda was passed unanimously.
C. Approval of an Agreement for Consulting Services with McGill Associates in the amount of $61,450 for the Geitner Basin Outfall Replacement Project. - The Geitner basin outfall is a section of a larger diameter sanitary sewer line that runs from Highway 70 SW at Southgate to approximately the Highway 321 and I-40 interchange, and serves the area of Hickory from 4th Street SW to Highway 321 and Highway 70 SW to Main Avenue SW. It was discovered that a large amount of debris has been disposed of over top of the outfall and is causing problems with crushing and blockages. This section of outfall has immediate danger of failure and requires replacement/relocation. McGill Associates is familiar with the area through the Geitner basin area evaluation and is the optimum firm to complete this sewer outfall line replacement project due to this knowledge. The project will be funded from the Water and Sewer General Capital Reserves. Staff recommends Council approval of the agreement for professional services with McGill Associates for Geitner basin outfall replacement project in the amount of $61,450.
Alderman Lail stated that the reason why he wanted to remove the item was because of the size of the project. Why is the whole outfall line being replaced. Kevin Greer answered that the line is 5,000 feet. There is a lot of debris and infill. There is difficulty. There are design and construction administration service costs budgeted into the $61,245. It can't be replaced in place. It is cheaper to flip sides of the creek and lay the pipes there.
New Business - Public Hearings
1. Consideration of the Community Development Block Grant 2015-2019 Consolidated Plan.
Mr. Larry Pope spoke against the plan because of his concerns about the inclusion of Exodus homes.
Martha Gantt associated with ALFA spoke in favor of the Block Grant proposal.
Angela Hurd director of City of Refuge spoke in favor of the plan.
Mayor Wright asked the City Manager about having to approve the plan exactly the way it was presented. Manager Berry stated that they could make changes. The Mayor stated that he would like Exodus Homes to come in and explain their side of the allegations that Mr. pope had made. The plan has to be submitted to HUD by May 15, which is before the next City Council meeting. Dave Leonetti stated that there can be (later) amendments to the plan. Alder Patton stated in the future, that she has always said that she thought groups receiving funding should be at these meetings to answer any questions there may be. Alderman Meisner asked Manager Berry if they should approve the plan? The City Manager suggested that they approve the plan. Alderman Lail made the motion to approve the plan, seconded by Meisner and it was approved.. The Mayor continued that he wanted Exodus Homes to come in and answer Mr. Pope's allegations. Manager Berry stated he would rather the Mayor not put it in that context. The agencies will come in and address Council on what they do with said funding.
Hound Note: Why are elected officials constantly asking the City Manager what they should do and how they should vote? Nothing against Mick on this issue, but that blows my mind.
New Business - Departmental Reports
1. Code Enforcement Update
2. Resolution – Cancellation of July 7, 2015 City Council Meeting and Rescheduling July 21, 2015 City Council Meeting to July 14, 2015.
+++ Council reconvened after closed session +++
Council convened to closed session and reconvened to open session to discuss a Resolution. Council approved an “Authorizing Resolution the Rural Economic Development Division North Carolina Department of Commerce Building Reuse Program Project 'Blue' Building Reuse Application”.
There is no video recording of the previous item.
The Dwindling US Economy — Paul Craig Roberts - April 29, 2015
Major U.S. Retailers Are Closing More Than 6,000 Stores - The Economic Collapse Blog - Michael Snyder - May 1st, 2015
Tuesday, May 5, 2015
Agenda about the City Council meeting of May 5, 2015
This Agenda is about the Hickory City Council meeting that took place on the date listed above. City council meetings are held on the first and third Tuesdays of each Month in the Council Chambers of the Julian Whitener building.
At right of this page under Main Information links is an Hickory's City Website link. If you click on that link, it takes you to our city’s website/ The City's website evolves over time, but currently towrds the top right there is a Link called Quick Links. Click that on and look for the Agenda's and Minutes link you need to click. Scroll down from there and this will show you a list of PDF files to upcoming and previous meetings.
Agendas show what is on the docket for the meeting of that date. The Minutes is an actual summary of the proceedings of the meeting of that date. You can also look in the upper right hand corner of the front page of the Hickory Hound and (will soon) find the link to the past history of Hickory City Newsletters.
Here is a summary of the agenda of the meeting. There were a couple of important items that were discussed at this meeting and the details are listed further below:
Please remember that pressing Ctrl and + will magnify the text and page and pressing Ctrl and - will make the text and page smaller. This will help the readability for those with smaller screens and/or eye difficulties.
=================================================
Hound Notes: Not much happening again at this meeting, which has been a theme lately. A couple of regularly scheduled reports with Block Grants and Code Enforcement. We'll see what happens at the meeting.
The Dwindling US Economy — Paul Craig Roberts - April 29, 2015
Major U.S. Retailers Are Closing More Than 6,000 Stores - The Economic Collapse Blog - Michael Snyder - May 1st, 2015
US Factory Orders Drop YoY For 5th Consecutive Month - Zero Hedge - Tyler Durden - May 4, 2015
=================================================
Special Presentations
A. Proclamation for National Police Week 2015. (Exhibit IV.A.)
B. Proclamation for Building Safety Month, May 2015. (Exhibit IV.B.)
Consent Agenda:
A. Approval to Amend the Traffic Ordinance for All On-Street Parking in the 300 Block of 1st Avenue NW from 3rd Street NW Westward to 4th Street NW on the Northside of the Street. - First Baptist Church of Hickory requested a parking ordinance change for the 300 block of 1st Avenue NW, specifically the north side of the street, to better accommodate the café that they run. The old ordinance was set in place to allow the safe drop-off/pick-up of the preschool children. Now the children are dropped-off/picked up via 2nd Avenue NW utilizing the portico that the church has. This would also make the parking restrictions the same along the entire block of 1st Avenue NW between 3rd Street NW and 4th Street NW. The Traffic Division has analyzed the request and recommends Council approve the request for changing the on-street parking on the north side of the 300 block of 1st Avenue NW from 3rd Street NW westward to 4th Street NW from “no parking 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.” to “2 hours 9:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.”
B. Approval of an Agreement for Consulting Services with Hulsey McCormick & Wallace of North Carolina, LLC for the Lake Shore Lift Station Rehabilitation Project in the Amount of $24,500. - Lakeshore Lift Station is a sanitary sewer lift station which is located in close proximity to the Alexander County Bridge, on 1st Street NW near the intersection with NC Highway 127. This station is approximately 25 years old and is experiencing problems related to `age of the station and exposure to degrading sewer gases. The rehabilitation project consists of complete replacement of the lift station including the wet wall, valve vault, pumps, control panel and all customary appurtenances. The replacement pumps are being upgraded to allow for some future growth in the system. Hulsey McCormick & Wallace of North Carolina, LLC have been selected as the best qualified firm with experience and availability. Staff recommends Council approval of the agreement for professional services with Hulsey McCormick & Wallace of North Carolina, LLC for Lakeshore Lift Station rehabilitation project in the amount of $24,500.
C. Approval of an Agreement for Consulting Services with McGill Associates in the amount of $61,450 for the Geitner Basin Outfall Replacement Project. - The Geitner basin outfall is a section of a larger diameter sanitary sewer line that runs from Highway 70 SW at Southgate to approximately the Highway 321 and I-40 interchange, and serves the area of Hickory from 4th Street SW to Highway 321 and Highway 70 SW to Main Avenue SW. It was discovered that a large amount of debris has been disposed of over top of the outfall and is causing problems with crushing and blockages. This section of outfall has immediate danger of failure and requires replacement/relocation. McGill Associates is familiar with the area through the Geitner basin area evaluation and is the optimum firm to complete this sewer outfall line replacement project due to this knowledge. The project will be funded from the Water and Sewer General Capital Reserves. Staff recommends Council approval of the agreement for professional services with McGill Associates for Geitner basin outfall replacement project in the amount of $61,450.
D. Acceptance of the 2015 Urgent Repair Program Grant and Approval of the Assistance and Procurement Policies. - In January 2015, the City of Hickory Community Development Division applied for funding through the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency’s Urgent Repair Program. The City of Hickory has been awarded $50,000 through this program in order to assist approximately 12 very low income homeowners with urgently needed repairs in an amount not to exceed $8,000 per housing unit. The City of Hickory will provide an additional $5,000 in matching funds, which are available from Rental Rehabilitation program income. The total program budget will be $55,000. NC Housing Finance Agency requires the City of Hickory to prepare Assistance and Procurement Policies. These policies must be made available to the public and explain the guidelines of the URP15 program. Staff recommends Council accept the 2015 Urgent Repair Program Grant and approve the Assistance and Procurement Policies for submittal to the NC Housing Finance Agency. Upon receipt and acceptance by NC Housing Finance Agency, funds will be dispersed to the City of Hickory in order to begin repairs to eligible homes.
E. Approval to Issue a Pyrotechnic Display Permit to Hickory Motor Speedway. - Kevin Piercy, General Manager of Hickory Motor Speedway has submitted a request to obtain permission to have a public fireworks display on May 23, 2015. The North Carolina Fire Code requires a mandatory operational permit for the use and handling of pyrotechnic special effects material. The Division of Fire & Life Safety Bureau shall review all required documentation. The Fire Prevention Bureau will also inspect the pyrotechnics display area prior to the event to ensure compliance with all guidelines and codes. Staff recommends approval of the pyrotechnics displays.
F. Call for a Special Joint Meeting with Hickory City Council and Parks and Recreation Commission regarding improvements to Geitner-Rotary Park and Partnership with the Lackey Family, May 12, 2015, 12:00 p.m., Highland Recreation Center Community Room.
New Business - Public Hearings
1. Consideration of the Community Development Block Grant 2015-2019 Consolidated Plan. - The Consolidated Plan is a five year strategic vision for housing and community development needs within the City. The plan will cover program years 2015 through 2019. The Plan contains an Annual Action Plan that describes the project use of funding and will be updated on an annual basis. The City will receive approximately $300,041 in 2015 through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and approximately $165,000 in program income for a total of $465,041. Funds will be used to develop stronger communities by providing decent housing, creating suitable living environments, and expanding economic opportunities, principally for low and moderate incomes. The Citizen’s Advisory Committee reviewed the draft action plan at their meeting on April 2, 2015 and recommended approval of the proposed budget. Staff recommends Council’s approval of the Community Development Block Grant 2015-2019 Consolidated Plan. This public hearing was advertised in a newspaper having general circulation in the Hickory area on April 5, April 22, and May 5, 2015
New Business - Departmental Reports
1. Code Enforcement Update
2. Resolution – Cancellation of July 7, 2015 City Council Meeting and Rescheduling July 21, 2015 City Council Meeting to July 14, 2015. - `Be it resolved by the City Council of the City of Hickory that the regularly scheduled City Council Meeting for July 7, 2015 be cancelled. (This meeting in July has traditionally been cancelled by the City Council.) Staff recommends rescheduling the July 21, 2015 meeting to July 14, 2015 due to there being five weeks between the June 16, 2015 City Council meeting and the July 21, 2015 meeting. Be it resolved by the City Council of the City of Hickory that the regularly scheduled City Council Meeting for July 21, 2015 be rescheduled to July 14, 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.
=================================================
Hound Notes: Not much happening again at this meeting, which has been a theme lately. A couple of regularly scheduled reports with Block Grants and Code Enforcement. We'll see what happens at the meeting.
The Dwindling US Economy — Paul Craig Roberts - April 29, 2015
Major U.S. Retailers Are Closing More Than 6,000 Stores - The Economic Collapse Blog - Michael Snyder - May 1st, 2015
=================================================
Special Presentations
A. Proclamation for National Police Week 2015. (Exhibit IV.A.)
B. Proclamation for Building Safety Month, May 2015. (Exhibit IV.B.)
Consent Agenda:
A. Approval to Amend the Traffic Ordinance for All On-Street Parking in the 300 Block of 1st Avenue NW from 3rd Street NW Westward to 4th Street NW on the Northside of the Street. - First Baptist Church of Hickory requested a parking ordinance change for the 300 block of 1st Avenue NW, specifically the north side of the street, to better accommodate the café that they run. The old ordinance was set in place to allow the safe drop-off/pick-up of the preschool children. Now the children are dropped-off/picked up via 2nd Avenue NW utilizing the portico that the church has. This would also make the parking restrictions the same along the entire block of 1st Avenue NW between 3rd Street NW and 4th Street NW. The Traffic Division has analyzed the request and recommends Council approve the request for changing the on-street parking on the north side of the 300 block of 1st Avenue NW from 3rd Street NW westward to 4th Street NW from “no parking 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.” to “2 hours 9:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.”
B. Approval of an Agreement for Consulting Services with Hulsey McCormick & Wallace of North Carolina, LLC for the Lake Shore Lift Station Rehabilitation Project in the Amount of $24,500. - Lakeshore Lift Station is a sanitary sewer lift station which is located in close proximity to the Alexander County Bridge, on 1st Street NW near the intersection with NC Highway 127. This station is approximately 25 years old and is experiencing problems related to `age of the station and exposure to degrading sewer gases. The rehabilitation project consists of complete replacement of the lift station including the wet wall, valve vault, pumps, control panel and all customary appurtenances. The replacement pumps are being upgraded to allow for some future growth in the system. Hulsey McCormick & Wallace of North Carolina, LLC have been selected as the best qualified firm with experience and availability. Staff recommends Council approval of the agreement for professional services with Hulsey McCormick & Wallace of North Carolina, LLC for Lakeshore Lift Station rehabilitation project in the amount of $24,500.
C. Approval of an Agreement for Consulting Services with McGill Associates in the amount of $61,450 for the Geitner Basin Outfall Replacement Project. - The Geitner basin outfall is a section of a larger diameter sanitary sewer line that runs from Highway 70 SW at Southgate to approximately the Highway 321 and I-40 interchange, and serves the area of Hickory from 4th Street SW to Highway 321 and Highway 70 SW to Main Avenue SW. It was discovered that a large amount of debris has been disposed of over top of the outfall and is causing problems with crushing and blockages. This section of outfall has immediate danger of failure and requires replacement/relocation. McGill Associates is familiar with the area through the Geitner basin area evaluation and is the optimum firm to complete this sewer outfall line replacement project due to this knowledge. The project will be funded from the Water and Sewer General Capital Reserves. Staff recommends Council approval of the agreement for professional services with McGill Associates for Geitner basin outfall replacement project in the amount of $61,450.
D. Acceptance of the 2015 Urgent Repair Program Grant and Approval of the Assistance and Procurement Policies. - In January 2015, the City of Hickory Community Development Division applied for funding through the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency’s Urgent Repair Program. The City of Hickory has been awarded $50,000 through this program in order to assist approximately 12 very low income homeowners with urgently needed repairs in an amount not to exceed $8,000 per housing unit. The City of Hickory will provide an additional $5,000 in matching funds, which are available from Rental Rehabilitation program income. The total program budget will be $55,000. NC Housing Finance Agency requires the City of Hickory to prepare Assistance and Procurement Policies. These policies must be made available to the public and explain the guidelines of the URP15 program. Staff recommends Council accept the 2015 Urgent Repair Program Grant and approve the Assistance and Procurement Policies for submittal to the NC Housing Finance Agency. Upon receipt and acceptance by NC Housing Finance Agency, funds will be dispersed to the City of Hickory in order to begin repairs to eligible homes.
E. Approval to Issue a Pyrotechnic Display Permit to Hickory Motor Speedway. - Kevin Piercy, General Manager of Hickory Motor Speedway has submitted a request to obtain permission to have a public fireworks display on May 23, 2015. The North Carolina Fire Code requires a mandatory operational permit for the use and handling of pyrotechnic special effects material. The Division of Fire & Life Safety Bureau shall review all required documentation. The Fire Prevention Bureau will also inspect the pyrotechnics display area prior to the event to ensure compliance with all guidelines and codes. Staff recommends approval of the pyrotechnics displays.
F. Call for a Special Joint Meeting with Hickory City Council and Parks and Recreation Commission regarding improvements to Geitner-Rotary Park and Partnership with the Lackey Family, May 12, 2015, 12:00 p.m., Highland Recreation Center Community Room.
New Business - Public Hearings
1. Consideration of the Community Development Block Grant 2015-2019 Consolidated Plan. - The Consolidated Plan is a five year strategic vision for housing and community development needs within the City. The plan will cover program years 2015 through 2019. The Plan contains an Annual Action Plan that describes the project use of funding and will be updated on an annual basis. The City will receive approximately $300,041 in 2015 through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and approximately $165,000 in program income for a total of $465,041. Funds will be used to develop stronger communities by providing decent housing, creating suitable living environments, and expanding economic opportunities, principally for low and moderate incomes. The Citizen’s Advisory Committee reviewed the draft action plan at their meeting on April 2, 2015 and recommended approval of the proposed budget. Staff recommends Council’s approval of the Community Development Block Grant 2015-2019 Consolidated Plan. This public hearing was advertised in a newspaper having general circulation in the Hickory area on April 5, April 22, and May 5, 2015
New Business - Departmental Reports
1. Code Enforcement Update
2. Resolution – Cancellation of July 7, 2015 City Council Meeting and Rescheduling July 21, 2015 City Council Meeting to July 14, 2015. - `Be it resolved by the City Council of the City of Hickory that the regularly scheduled City Council Meeting for July 7, 2015 be cancelled. (This meeting in July has traditionally been cancelled by the City Council.) Staff recommends rescheduling the July 21, 2015 meeting to July 14, 2015 due to there being five weeks between the June 16, 2015 City Council meeting and the July 21, 2015 meeting. Be it resolved by the City Council of the City of Hickory that the regularly scheduled City Council Meeting for July 21, 2015 be rescheduled to July 14, 2015.
Friday, April 24, 2015
Newsletter about the City Council meeting of April 21, 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.
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:
Hound Notes:
Not much to comment on about this meeting. You can follow the links below related to the various items.
I would like to comment on Cliff Moone's address to Council in relation to recruiting high income Military Veterans to the community. I think we've already been successful at doing that; as in with the retired veteran he spoke to who had moved to the community. Mr. Moone makes the point that the Hound has addressed time and time again over the years when he states that these retirees can move here and be within traveling distance (I assume for day trips) to locations such as Charlotte, Winston-Salem, and the Mountains. Exactly, these people can come here and live cheaply and go spend their disposable income in other places. Hickory will never be "THE" destination location, but we have needed more enterprises/venues that are destination entities. We need people who spend money to come here an spend it. That creates value.
When it comes to what I have espoused about attracting the younger demographic to the community, I want you to understand. For me, this has never been a completely personal mission. You haven't seen me saying that I want this for myself. This has been a community mission. I'm not out here spouting out that I want the community to actively seek to attract 40 to 50 year olds. That's my age demo. We keep seeing 60+ year olds saying that we need to look to attract 60+ year olds. Why? Because that is who they hang out with and relate to.
The mission to attract the younger generations is a mission to sow the seeds of the future. Mr. Moone latched onto the saying about 'planting trees that he will never enjoy the shade of' during the bond referendum, when it came to the proposed projects related to that referendum. Well, that is what the mission of attracting the younger generations is all about. If we don't get these younger people to live here, then they won't be enjoying the shade he portrays. Population has fallen over the past 5 years, as a whole, in this community, but has been steady (and risen) over that time period in the very demographic he seeks to attract, while falling precipitously in the very demographic the Hound has been alluding to for eight years -- the 40 and younger age group.
We have already been successful at attracting Seniors. I just don't get the angst that always comes forward, when the obvious need to attract young people is addressed. What is the 'Me Too' mindset all about. We've already been successful at collecting the low hanging fruit. Our local population was going to age anyway due to the overall demographic shift related to the Baby Boomers. We already have the amenities for Seniors built all around us. That is the reason why the local Powers That Be can't understand why young people say, 'there is nothing to do around here'... because the community has been built around their wants and needs and what they relate to. Those aren't the desires of the younger generations. We will continue to have (maintain and upgrade) infrastructure for older people. That will attract the older people. Hate to say it, but what Mr. Moone proposed in his address of this City Council certainly seems to be unfounded.
Edit to add: One other issue about that address. The proposed projects are not "Boost Hickory" projects. They are Hickory projects that will be paid for by the people of Hickory, not just the people associated with the group, "Boost Hickory".
==================================================
Invocation by Councilman Danny Seaver
Special Presentations
A. Proclamation to Hickory High School Lady Tornadoes Basketball Team. - (per Hickory Inc.) - Mayor Wright read and presented the Proclamation, as well as a sign to Coach Barbara Helms. Coach Helms introduced each player and Mayor Wright presented each of them with a proclamation and a key to the City.
Persons Requesting to be Heard
Cliff Moone - (per Hickory Inc.) - addressed Council on his concerns of the future of the City. He discussed the 65 and over demographic age bracket of people in this area. He suggested recruiting retirees from the military to the area because these retirees are looking for areas like Hickory as opposed to the larger cities.
Consent Agenda - Item B was removed from the Consent Agenda, which was a burial plot sold from the City to Alderman Meisner. Alderman Meisner recused himself. There was no further discussion. The Council approved Item B and then the full Council approved all items.
New Business - Public Hearings
1. Consideration of Closing a Portion of Main Avenue Place SE. - The City Clerk received a petition from Attorney Terry M. Taylor on behalf of the property owner Woodland Village, LLC, (Successor in interest to Center Street Crossing I, LLC and Center Street Crossing II, LLC). The petition requests the City close said portion of Main Avenue Place SE. The signature on the petition represents the owner of both of the tracts of property abutting this portion of the right of way. Chuck Hanson presentation. Council approved unanimously. Alderman Lail did ask about the sidewalk in the area. Mr. Hanson stated that a new sidewalk will be constructed parallel to Main avenue in that area.
New Business - Departmental Reports:
1. Vacant Building Revitalization and Demolition Grant for 890 F Ave Dr SE, LLC. - City Council established the Vacant Building Revitalization and Demolition Grant program on September 16, 2008. The program provides grant funding up to $30,000 for project to renovate and rehabilitate vacant buildings within the Urban Revitalization Area and targeted industrial buildings in other areas of the City. 890 F Ave Dr SE, LLC has applied for a Vacant Building Revitalization Grant in the amount of $6,000 to assist in the renovation of the former Thomasville Furniture Plant located at 890 F Avenue Drive SE. The applicant plans to renovate the facility for furniture manufacturing. The applicant plans to invest approximately $40,000 in real property improvements to rehabilitate the mill building. This makes the project eligible for a $6,000 grant. The Business Development Committee reviewed the application and recommends approval. Staff recommends approval of the Vacant Building Revitalization and Demolition Grant for 890 F Ave Dr SE, LLC. Andrea Surratt Presentation. Council unanimously approved.
2. Update on Community Policing - Presentation bu Chief Tom Adkins -
Mission Statement
Examples of Community Policing in Hickory
Presentations and Activities involving Current Issues
Planned Activities
New Technology - Body Cameras
Councilman Guess asks how Body Cameras relate to Public Records laws
Alderman Seaver asked about also having Dashcams too
Matters not on the Agenda/General Comments
Alderman Meisner thanked his “City of Hickory family” for their support over the past year to his family.
Mayor Wright commented that Council had started the budget process, it is very early, but the amount to create a revenue neutral rate when joined with the evaluations is 53.95 cents. That is not a tax increase. It balances the value and the rate to bring in the same amount of dollars that we brought in last year at 50 cents. The average taxpayer will have 53.95 as the rate, and a value around 7 percent lower than it was last year. That is very early in the game, it has nothing to do with what they will ultimately agree on as the final rate to help them provide the ideal level of service at the ideal price. That is where they want to get. That number has been generated now. Alderman Meisner commented that is on an average. Some are lower and some are higher. Mayor Wright commented that there will be people who will pay more dollars and there will be people who pay less dollars. Council cannot control that.
Tuesday, April 21, 2015
Agenda about the City Council meeting of April 21, 2015
This Agenda is about the Hickory City Council meeting that took place on the date listed above. City council meetings are held on the first and third Tuesdays of each Month in the Council Chambers of the Julian Whitener building.
At right of this page under Main Information links is an Hickory's City Website link. If you click on that link, it takes you to our city’s website/ The City's website evolves over time, but currently towrds the top right there is a Link called Quick Links. Click that on and look for the Agenda's and Minutes link you need to click. Scroll down from there and this will show you a list of PDF files to upcoming and previous meetings.
Agendas show what is on the docket for the meeting of that date. The Minutes is an actual summary of the proceedings of the meeting of that date. You can also look in the upper right hand corner of the front page of the Hickory Hound and (will soon) find the link to the past history of Hickory City Newsletters.
Here is a summary of the agenda of the meeting. There were a couple of important items that were discussed at this meeting and the details are listed further below:
Please remember that pressing Ctrl and + will magnify the text and page and pressing Ctrl and - will make the text and page smaller. This will help the readability for those with smaller screens and/or eye difficulties.
=================================================
Hound Notes: Late in submitting this agenda. I didn't see a whole lot here. We'll see what happens at the meeting.
The bigger picture of the tank man on Tienanmen square, 1989
=================================================
Invocation by Rev. Mark Andrews, St. Luke’s United Methodist Church
Special Presentations
A. Proclamation to Hickory High School Lady Tornadoes Basketball Team.
Consent Agenda:
A. Approval of a Lease of City-owned Properties to Safe Harbor Rescue Mission, Inc. Located at 16 1st Avenue NE, and 18 1st Avenue NE, Hickory. - The properties located at 16 and 18 1st Avenue NE have been vacant for the past few years. Safe Harbor approached staff about using the property for office space as they have outgrown their current location. The initial term for the proposed lease will be for approximately two years for the nominal amount of one dollar. The lease will renew by mutual option for up to two additional one year terms unless notice is given by either party to terminate. The lessee will be responsible for the payment of all utilities furnished to the property, 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 Safe Harbor Rescue Mission, Inc. Public Notice of Intent to Lease was advertised in a newspaper having general circulation in the Hickory area on April 10, 2015.
B. Approval of a Cemetery Deed from City of Hickory to Bruce E. Meisner, (Oakwood Cemetery, Plot A8, Lot Number 1 and 2, Section 58) (Prepared by Deputy City Attorney Arnita Dula).
C. Special Events Activities Application March of Dimes – 5K Walk, Rebecca Moser, March of Dimes, April 25, 2015, 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., L.P. Fans Stadium.
D. Special Events Activities Application Strong Body Strong Mind Wellness Celebration, Sally Learned, Development Officer, Catawba Valley Behavioral Healthcare, May 16, 2015, 7:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., 327 1st Avenue NW.
E. Special Events Activities Application 2015 Walk to End Alzheimer’s, Meghan Lawton, Regional Manager, Alzheimers Association of WNC, October 3, 2015, 7:00 a.m. to 1:00p.m., L.P. Frans Stadium.
F. Special Events Activities Application Reading New Testament of Bible, Kathy Johnson, Pastor, Greater Shekinah Glory Church, May 6, 2015 6:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., above the steps of the Municipal Building.
G. Special Events Activities Application Fleet Feet Hickory and Crawdads Home Run Trot 5K, Juliet Horan, Owner, Fleet Feet Sports, May 9, 2015, 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., L.P. Frans Stadium/Winkler Park.
H. Amended Special Events Activities Application National Day of Prayer 2015, Charles Moretz, Christopher Harris, Managers, Ignite Hickory, Inc., Event Date May 7, 2015, Sails on Square. Amended Application to allow for set-up on May 6, 2015 at 5:00 p.m., adding Security by Griffith Security from May 6, 2015 at 8:00 p.m. to May 7, 2015 at 5:00 a.m. The time of the event will remain the same starting at 6:30 a.m. with cleanup ending at 10:00 p.m.
I. Citizens’ Advisory Committee Recommendations for Assistance through the City of Hickory’s Housing Programs. - The following request was considered by the Citizens’ Advisory Committee at their regular meeting on April 2, 2015:
Jean Dula, 426 7th Avenue Court SE, Hickory
The Citizen’s Advisory Committee recommends approval for assistance not to exceed $15,000 for repairs to her house. Assistance would be in the form of a zero percent interest deferred loan.
J. Call for a Public Hearing to Consider Community Development Block Grant 2015-2019 Consolidated Plan.
K. Approval to Apply for a Grant to Assist in Funding the Purchase of Bulletproof Vests for Police Officers. - Since 1999, the Bulletproof Vest Partnership (BVP) has awarded more than 13,000 jurisdictions, a total of $393 million in federal funds for the purchase of over one million vests. BVP is a critical resource for state and local jurisdictions that saves lives. This grant will pay up to 50% 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. Agenices will be notified that funds are available after July 1, 2015 if awarded the grant. Funds are placed in the police department budget uniform line item annually to purchase vests for police officers. Life expectancy of each vest is approximately five (5) years. The Police Department requests approval for the submission of this grant to receive up to 50% funding to purchase bulletproof vests for police officers.
L. Acceptance of Bid and Award of Construction Contract to Hickory Sand Company Inc. in the Amount of $316,752.50. - The waterlines on 3rd Avenue SE and 5th Street SE date back to the 1940’ and 1950’s and are primarily constructed of cast iron material due to the era of construction. These specific streets were identified by staff in 2005 during a system evaluation as waterlines that required evaluation due to the number of maintenance calls. The frequency of maintenance calls contributed to the occurrences of discolored water for customers and combined those issues prompted City staff to initiate replacement. Hickory Sand Company, Inc. was the lowest responsible bidder. Staff recommends Council’s acceptance of a bid and award of construction contract with the responsible low bidder Hickory Sand Company, Inc. for the construction of the 3rd Avenue SE, and 5th Street SE waterline replacement project in the amount of $316,752.50. This is a budgeted project in the FY 14/15 Capital Budget for the Public Utilities Department.
M. Budget Ordinance Amendment Number 18.
1. To budget a $100 Library donation from Jean C. Boggs in memory of Marcus L. Boggs, Jr. in the adult programming line item.
2. To appropriate $30,837 of GF- Appropriated Fund Balance and transfer to the Airport's Maintenance and Repair of Buildings line item. This appropriation is needed to replace the HVAC systems for the terminal lobby and the FAA Space. Replacement funds are budgeted in the FY15-16 budget however due to the age and unreliability of the units it is recommended to replace them this current budget year.
New Business - Public Hearings
1. Consideration of Closing a Portion of Main Avenue Place SE. - The City Clerk received a petition from Attorney Terry M. Taylor on behalf of the property owner Woodland Village, LLC, (Successor in interest to Center Street Crossing I, LLC and Center Street Crossing II, LLC). The petition requests the City close said portion of Main Avenue Place SE. The signature on the petition represents the owner of both of the tracts of property abutting this portion of the right of way. The petition fee of $575 has been paid. This public hearing was advertised in a newspaper having general circulation in the Hickory area on March 20, March 27, April 3, and April 10, 2015.
New Business - Departmental Reports:
1. Vacant Building Revitalization and Demolition Grant for 890 F Ave Dr SE, LLC. - City Council established the Vacant Building Revitalization and Demolition Grant program on September 16, 2008. The program provides grant funding up to $30,000 for project to renovate and rehabilitate vacant buildings within the Urban Revitalization Area and targeted industrial buildings in other areas of the City. 890 F Ave Dr SE, LLC has applied for a Vacant Building Revitalization Grant in the amount of $6,000 to assist in the renovation of the former Thomasville Furniture Plant located at 890 F Avenue Drive SE. The applicant plans to renovate the facility for furniture manufacturing. The applicant plans to invest approximately $40,000 in real property improvements to rehabilitate the mill
building. This makes the project eligible for a $6,000 grant. The Business Development Committee reviewed the application and recommends approval. Staff recommends approval of the Vacant Building Revitalization and Demolition Grant for 890 F Ave Dr SE, LLC.
2. Update on Community Policing
At right of this page under Main Information links is an Hickory's City Website link. If you click on that link, it takes you to our city’s website/ The City's website evolves over time, but currently towrds the top right there is a Link called Quick Links. Click that on and look for the Agenda's and Minutes link you need to click. Scroll down from there and this will show you a list of PDF files to upcoming and previous meetings.
Agendas show what is on the docket for the meeting of that date. The Minutes is an actual summary of the proceedings of the meeting of that date. You can also look in the upper right hand corner of the front page of the Hickory Hound and (will soon) find the link to the past history of Hickory City Newsletters.
Here is a summary of the agenda of the meeting. There were a couple of important items that were discussed at this meeting and the details are listed further below:
Please remember that pressing Ctrl and + will magnify the text and page and pressing Ctrl and - will make the text and page smaller. This will help the readability for those with smaller screens and/or eye difficulties.
=================================================
Hound Notes: Late in submitting this agenda. I didn't see a whole lot here. We'll see what happens at the meeting.
The bigger picture of the tank man on Tienanmen square, 1989
=================================================
Invocation by Rev. Mark Andrews, St. Luke’s United Methodist Church
Special Presentations
A. Proclamation to Hickory High School Lady Tornadoes Basketball Team.
Consent Agenda:
A. Approval of a Lease of City-owned Properties to Safe Harbor Rescue Mission, Inc. Located at 16 1st Avenue NE, and 18 1st Avenue NE, Hickory. - The properties located at 16 and 18 1st Avenue NE have been vacant for the past few years. Safe Harbor approached staff about using the property for office space as they have outgrown their current location. The initial term for the proposed lease will be for approximately two years for the nominal amount of one dollar. The lease will renew by mutual option for up to two additional one year terms unless notice is given by either party to terminate. The lessee will be responsible for the payment of all utilities furnished to the property, 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 Safe Harbor Rescue Mission, Inc. Public Notice of Intent to Lease was advertised in a newspaper having general circulation in the Hickory area on April 10, 2015.
B. Approval of a Cemetery Deed from City of Hickory to Bruce E. Meisner, (Oakwood Cemetery, Plot A8, Lot Number 1 and 2, Section 58) (Prepared by Deputy City Attorney Arnita Dula).
C. Special Events Activities Application March of Dimes – 5K Walk, Rebecca Moser, March of Dimes, April 25, 2015, 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., L.P. Fans Stadium.
D. Special Events Activities Application Strong Body Strong Mind Wellness Celebration, Sally Learned, Development Officer, Catawba Valley Behavioral Healthcare, May 16, 2015, 7:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., 327 1st Avenue NW.
E. Special Events Activities Application 2015 Walk to End Alzheimer’s, Meghan Lawton, Regional Manager, Alzheimers Association of WNC, October 3, 2015, 7:00 a.m. to 1:00p.m., L.P. Frans Stadium.
F. Special Events Activities Application Reading New Testament of Bible, Kathy Johnson, Pastor, Greater Shekinah Glory Church, May 6, 2015 6:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., above the steps of the Municipal Building.
G. Special Events Activities Application Fleet Feet Hickory and Crawdads Home Run Trot 5K, Juliet Horan, Owner, Fleet Feet Sports, May 9, 2015, 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., L.P. Frans Stadium/Winkler Park.
H. Amended Special Events Activities Application National Day of Prayer 2015, Charles Moretz, Christopher Harris, Managers, Ignite Hickory, Inc., Event Date May 7, 2015, Sails on Square. Amended Application to allow for set-up on May 6, 2015 at 5:00 p.m., adding Security by Griffith Security from May 6, 2015 at 8:00 p.m. to May 7, 2015 at 5:00 a.m. The time of the event will remain the same starting at 6:30 a.m. with cleanup ending at 10:00 p.m.
I. Citizens’ Advisory Committee Recommendations for Assistance through the City of Hickory’s Housing Programs. - The following request was considered by the Citizens’ Advisory Committee at their regular meeting on April 2, 2015:
Jean Dula, 426 7th Avenue Court SE, Hickory
The Citizen’s Advisory Committee recommends approval for assistance not to exceed $15,000 for repairs to her house. Assistance would be in the form of a zero percent interest deferred loan.
J. Call for a Public Hearing to Consider Community Development Block Grant 2015-2019 Consolidated Plan.
K. Approval to Apply for a Grant to Assist in Funding the Purchase of Bulletproof Vests for Police Officers. - Since 1999, the Bulletproof Vest Partnership (BVP) has awarded more than 13,000 jurisdictions, a total of $393 million in federal funds for the purchase of over one million vests. BVP is a critical resource for state and local jurisdictions that saves lives. This grant will pay up to 50% 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. Agenices will be notified that funds are available after July 1, 2015 if awarded the grant. Funds are placed in the police department budget uniform line item annually to purchase vests for police officers. Life expectancy of each vest is approximately five (5) years. The Police Department requests approval for the submission of this grant to receive up to 50% funding to purchase bulletproof vests for police officers.
L. Acceptance of Bid and Award of Construction Contract to Hickory Sand Company Inc. in the Amount of $316,752.50. - The waterlines on 3rd Avenue SE and 5th Street SE date back to the 1940’ and 1950’s and are primarily constructed of cast iron material due to the era of construction. These specific streets were identified by staff in 2005 during a system evaluation as waterlines that required evaluation due to the number of maintenance calls. The frequency of maintenance calls contributed to the occurrences of discolored water for customers and combined those issues prompted City staff to initiate replacement. Hickory Sand Company, Inc. was the lowest responsible bidder. Staff recommends Council’s acceptance of a bid and award of construction contract with the responsible low bidder Hickory Sand Company, Inc. for the construction of the 3rd Avenue SE, and 5th Street SE waterline replacement project in the amount of $316,752.50. This is a budgeted project in the FY 14/15 Capital Budget for the Public Utilities Department.
M. Budget Ordinance Amendment Number 18.
1. To budget a $100 Library donation from Jean C. Boggs in memory of Marcus L. Boggs, Jr. in the adult programming line item.
2. To appropriate $30,837 of GF- Appropriated Fund Balance and transfer to the Airport's Maintenance and Repair of Buildings line item. This appropriation is needed to replace the HVAC systems for the terminal lobby and the FAA Space. Replacement funds are budgeted in the FY15-16 budget however due to the age and unreliability of the units it is recommended to replace them this current budget year.
New Business - Public Hearings
1. Consideration of Closing a Portion of Main Avenue Place SE. - The City Clerk received a petition from Attorney Terry M. Taylor on behalf of the property owner Woodland Village, LLC, (Successor in interest to Center Street Crossing I, LLC and Center Street Crossing II, LLC). The petition requests the City close said portion of Main Avenue Place SE. The signature on the petition represents the owner of both of the tracts of property abutting this portion of the right of way. The petition fee of $575 has been paid. This public hearing was advertised in a newspaper having general circulation in the Hickory area on March 20, March 27, April 3, and April 10, 2015.
New Business - Departmental Reports:
1. Vacant Building Revitalization and Demolition Grant for 890 F Ave Dr SE, LLC. - City Council established the Vacant Building Revitalization and Demolition Grant program on September 16, 2008. The program provides grant funding up to $30,000 for project to renovate and rehabilitate vacant buildings within the Urban Revitalization Area and targeted industrial buildings in other areas of the City. 890 F Ave Dr SE, LLC has applied for a Vacant Building Revitalization Grant in the amount of $6,000 to assist in the renovation of the former Thomasville Furniture Plant located at 890 F Avenue Drive SE. The applicant plans to renovate the facility for furniture manufacturing. The applicant plans to invest approximately $40,000 in real property improvements to rehabilitate the mill
building. This makes the project eligible for a $6,000 grant. The Business Development Committee reviewed the application and recommends approval. Staff recommends approval of the Vacant Building Revitalization and Demolition Grant for 890 F Ave Dr SE, LLC.
2. Update on Community Policing
Wednesday, April 15, 2015
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
