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The Farmville Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Monday, March 4, 2019 at 6:30 p.m. in the Municipal Building Courtroom with Mayor Robert Evans presiding.  Present for the meeting were Commissioners Brenda Elks, Alma Hobbs, Jamin Dixon, David Shackleford and John Moore; Town Attorney Christopher Edwards; Town Manager David Hodgkins and Town Clerk Amy B. Johnson. 

Mayor Evans called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. 

Pastor Cedric Frisbee from the Saint John Freewill Baptist Church in Farmville offered the invocation, which was followed by the pledge of allegiance to the flag.

Mayor Evans recognized Melba Edwards, who resides at 4068 South Main Street, who expressed her concern regarding her home being vandalized, requested the Police to patrol the south side of town, and asked if the Board could assist in getting the fingerprints back from the State earlier than one year.

Chief Greene stated that all fingerprints must be sent to the State lab in Raleigh and they are behind twelve months in their processing so it is out of the Town’s hands as far as expediting the process.

Town Manager Hodgkins had the following comments:

• Town Board Retreat was held on February 18^th and 19^th and was very informative.
• A workshop on the Comprehensive Master Recreation Plan is scheduled for March 5^th from 6-8 pm in the courtroom to obtain information from the public on the master plan.
• Public Works is currently working on budgeted improvements to the Community Center.  Improvements were planned to be completed during the second half of the budget year.

Finance Director Amy Johnson provided the financial report for the month of February, 2019.

Mayor Evans asked if there were any additional changes to the agenda.

Town Manager Hodgkins recommended the following changes to the agenda:

• Add Agenda item #8 – Adoption of an Ordinance to Temporary Close Main Street Between Horne Avenue and Church Street for the Dogwood Festival

Commissioner Elks made a motion to approve the above change to the evening’s agenda.  The motion carried unanimously. 

On motion by Commissioner Dixon, the Board approved the evening’s agenda.  The motion carried unanimously. 

Special Presentations

1.   Proclamation Declaring March 11-14 as “Girl Scout Week”- Mayor Evans

Mayor Evans presented the local girl scouts with a proclamation declaring March 11-15, 2019 as Girl Scout Week in Farmville.

Public Hearings

2.   Rezone Property on West Wilson Street / NC 121 From Residential Agricultural-

      20 (RA-20) to Solar Power Overlay District (SPOD)

Planning Director Justin Oakes stated that a public hearing is being conducted to obtain citizen input on a proposed rezoning request for Parcels 25231, 38322, 51256 and 51257 located off of West Wilson Street from Residential-Agricultural (RA-20) to Solar Power Overlay District.  Oakes stated that the Planning Board recommended approval of this rezoning request.

Mayor Evans declared the public hearing to be open at 6:49 p.m.

There being no comments, Mayor Evans closed the public hearing at 6:50 p.m.

On motion by Commissioner Elks, the Board approved the rezoning request from Strata Solar and adopted Ordinance (2019) 927, Ordinance Amending Chapter 157 Zoning.  The motion carried unanimously. 

Items for Consent

3.  Approval of Minutes- February 4, 2019 (Regular Session)

     To adopt the minutes from the February 4, 2019 regular session.

4.   Report of Unpaid Taxes

To approve the 2018 Unpaid Taxes Report and to authorize the Advertisement of the 2018 Unpaid Tax Liens on Real Property.

On motion by Commissioner Hobbs,HHSSSS the Board approved/adopted the following:

• Adopted minutes from the February 4, 2019 regular session
• Approved the 2018 Unpaid Taxes Report and Authorized the Advertisement of the 2018 Unpaid Tax Liens on Real Property

The motion carried unanimously. 

Items for Decision

5.   2018 CDBG-NR Funding

Mike Barnette, from McDavid Associates, stated that the Town’s previous application for $750,000 of CDBG-NR funds to the Rural Economic Development Division of the Department of Commerce for housing improvements and ADA bathrooms at the Arts Council Annex had been approved.  He also stated that the Town’s local commitment for the program is $8,000.  Barnette requested for the Board to accept the grant offer, budget the CDBG-NR funds, and authorize the Town Manager to procure and contract service contracts needed for the program.

Commissioner Hobbs made a motion to accept the grant offer by adopting Resolution (2019) 1443, Resolution by the Board of Commissioners of the Town of Farmville, 20189 CDBG-NR Program.  The motion carried unanimously. 

Commissioner Shackleford made a motion to budget the CDBG-NR funds by adopting Resolution (2019) 1444, Grant Program Budget, 2018 CDBG Neighborhood Revitalization Program.  The motion carried unanimously.

Commissioner Elks made a motion to approve the Town Manager to contract services by adopting Resolution (2019) 1445, Resolution by the Board of Commissioners of the Town of Farmville, 2018 CDBG Neighborhood Revitalization Program.  The motion carried unanimously.

6.   Update on H.B. Sugg Community Center Roof Project

Adrian Dixon, representative for the H. B. Sugg Community Center, provided the Board with an update regarding fundraising efforts to repair the roof at the center.  He reported receiving donations from the following sources:

• Lowes donated all materials
• Private citizens / businesses
• Local church
• Benevolent Ministries

Dixon stated that they are still short $5,000 of their goal to repair the roof.  He asked the Town Board for assistance.

Commissioner Dixon stated he would like to see a program such as the Façade grant program created or expanded to address this need for the H.B. Sugg Community Center as well as other businesses that would quality under the new program.

Commissioner Dixon made a motion to authorize Town Manager Hodgkins to develop a grant program to fund infrastructure projects that are for gateway buildings and/or historic buildings, with a maximum Town contribution of 20% of project cost up to $5,000.  The motion carried unanimously. 

7.   Consideration of Additional Funding for the Farmville Senior Council

Cathy Holmes requested additional funding of $2,000 to support van transportation services for seniors coming to and from the senior center for meals and activities.

Commissioner Shackleford made a motion to award the additional $2,000 requested for van transportation services for the seniors.  The motion carried unanimously. 

8.  Adoption of an Ordinance to Temporary Close Main Street Between Horne

     Avenue and Church Street for the Dogwood Festival

Town Manager Hodgkins requested adoption of an ordinance to temporarily close Main Street between Horne Avenue and Church Street during the dates of the Dogwood Festival.

Commissioner Elks made a motion to adopt Ordinance (2019) 928, An Ordinance to Temporarily Close Main Street Between Horne Avenue and Church Street.  The motion carried unanimously. 

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Citizen comments

Mayor Evans asked for citizen comments at this time.

Jay Johnson reported that the Music on Main concerts would be starting back up soon with the first show to be in late May.  He said he would be back for Board approval later once he has met with Chief Greene and ironed out the details.

Adjournment

On motion by Commissioner Shackleford, the meeting was adjourned at 7:31 p.m.  The motion carried unanimously.

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The Farmville Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Monday, February 4, 2019 at 6:30 p.m. in the Municipal Building Courtroom with Mayor Robert Evans presiding.  Present for the meeting were Commissioners Brenda Elks, Alma Hobbs, Jamin Dixon, David Shackleford and John Moore; Town Attorney Christopher Edwards; Town Manager David Hodgkins and Town Clerk Amy B. Johnson. 

Mayor Evans called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. 

Dr. Rick Bailey from the First Baptist Church in Farmville offered the invocation, which was followed by the pledge of allegiance to the flag.

Mayor Evans recognized Cathy Holmes from the Farmville Senior Council.

Ms. Holmes stated that they are running low on funds to operate their van.  She added that they are trying to solicit private donations but are requesting an additional contribution of $2,000 from the Town.  She stated that if they are unable to raise the funds, the van will no longer be in service to transport the seniors to and from the center.

Steven Hardy-Braz informed the Board of another upcoming bike ride scheduled for October 3, 2019, with Farmville being a rest stop for over 2,000 cyclist.  He asked for consent to pursue working on this event.  The Board gave their consent.

Mayor Evans read a proclamation honoring African American History Month.

Town Manager Hodgkins had the following comments:

• Presented the FY 2019/2020 Budget calendar
• Reported that the Pitt County Board of Education will be holding its regular meeting in Farmville on May 6^th at 6:30pm and asked that the Town Board hold their meeting earlier in the day.
• Reported that the Town will again be participating in the Down East National Outdoor Sculpture Exhibition and that the Pitt Count Arts Council is giving the Town the sculpture which was judged best in show when it is time to replace the current sculpture in March.
• Introduced new employees – Cailan Gray, Recreation Director & Justin Oakes, Planning Director

Finance Director Amy Johnson provided the financial report for the month of January, 2019.

Mayor Evans asked if there were any additional changes to the agenda.

Town Manager Hodgkins recommended the following changes to the agenda:

• Move Agenda item #16 – Audit for Fiscal Year 2017/2018 to after Agenda item #10

Commissioner Moore made a motion to approve the above change to the evening’s agenda.  The motion carried unanimously. 

Public Hearings

1.   Structure for Demolition- 4310 Wallace Street

Code Enforcement Director Paul Ellis requested permission to demolish the structure located at 4310 Wallace Street (Parcel 12705).

Mayor Evans declared the public hearing to be open at 6:52 p.m.

John Spruill spoke for the Ward family, who are the owners of the property.  He stated that he would like to have time to get some items out of the building that he and the family would like to preserve.

There being no comments, Mayor Evans closed the public hearing at 6:56 p.m.

Commissioner Moore made a motion to table the agenda item for 120 days unless the building becomes an environmental hazard before that time.  The motion carried unanimously. 

Items for Consent

2.  Resolution Designating Applicant’s Agent for FEMA Reimbursement

     To adopt a resolution designating agents, Cindy Thomas and David Hodgkins, for

     federal and state emergency assistance

3.  Adoption of Ordinance Amending FY 2018/2019 Budget- Library Department

To adopt an ordinance amending the FY 2018/2019 Library budget in order to transfer grant monies received from the LSTA grant to cover funds spent.

4.  Appointment of Dogwood Festival Advisory Board Member – Haley Chambers

To adopt a resolution appointing a member to the Dogwood Festival Advisory Committee.

5.  Re-Appointment of Dogwood Festival Advisory Board Member – Fraley Greene

To adopt a resolution re-appointing a member to the Dogwood Festival Advisory Committee.

6.  Re-Appointment of Dogwood Festival Advisory Board Member – Ricky Langley

To adopt a resolution re-appointing a member to the Dogwood Festival Advisory Committee.

7.  Re-Appointment of Dogwood Festival Advisory Board Member – Kearney Long

To adopt a resolution re-appointing a member to the Dogwood Festival Advisory Committee.

8.  Re-Appointment of Dogwood Festival Advisory Board Member – Twana Wilkins

To adopt a resolution re-appointing a member to the Dogwood Festival Advisory Committee.

On motion by Commissioner Elks,HHSSSS the Board approved/adopted the following:

• Adopted Resolution (2019) 1433, Resolution of Applicant’s Agent, NC Division of Emergency Management
• Adopted Ordinance (2019) 926, An Ordinance Amending the FY 2018/2019 Budget Ordinance- Library LSTA grant
• Adopted Resolution (2019) 1434, Appointing a Member to the Dogwood Festival Advisory Committee- Haley Chambers
• Adopted Resolution (2019) 1435, Re-Appointing a Member to the Dogwood Festival Advisory Committee- Fraley Greene
• Adopted Resolution (2019) 1436, Re-Appointing a Member to the Dogwood Festival Advisory Committee- Ricky Langley
• Adopted Resolution (2019) 1437, Re-Appointing a Member to the Dogwood Festival Advisory Committee- Kearney Long
• Adopted Resolution (2019) 1438, Re-Appointing a Member to the Dogwood Festival Advisory Committee- Twana Wilkins

The motion carried unanimously. 

Items for Decision

9.   Update on Farmville Public Library Project – David Miller

Library Director David Miller updated the Board on the Library Facility project.  Miller informed the Board of the following:

• Depot building will be available May 10^th for occupancy for temporary library location
• Grant applications pending in the amount of $750,000
• Currently raised $380,000 through grants, local donors and fundraising events
• Fundraising events scheduled are: Wine and Chocolate in the Stacks on February 23^rd, Booking It 5K Race on May 11, and the Friends are working on other fundraising activities.

10. Use of Town Soccer Field by Farmville Middle School for Games – Chad Moore

Chad Moore, the Athletic Director for Farmville Middle School, requested use of the Town’s soccer field for their six upcoming home games.

Commissioner Elks made a motion to allow the school to use the Town soccer field for their six home games.  The motion carried unanimously. 

16. Presentation of Audit Report for FY 2017/2018

Jay Parris, from Barrow, Parris and Davenport, presented the audit report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2018.

Commissioner Shackleford made a motion to approve the audit report.  The motion carried unanimously. 

11. Resolution Authorizing Sale of Surplus Real Property at 3818 South Main Street

Town Manager Hodgkins stated the Town received an offer from Jamin Dixon to purchase a 0.7 acre storefront owned by the Town located at 3818 South Main Street.  He stated there were no additional bids received through the upset bid process.  He recommended adoption of a resolution to authorize the sale of the lot to Dixon.

Commissioner Hobbs made a motion to adopt Resolution (2019) 1439, Resolution Authorizing Disposal of Certain Real Property on South Main Street (3818).  The motion carried unanimously, with Commissioner Dixon abstaining.

12. Resolution Authorizing Sale of Surplus Real Property at 4359 Railroad Street

Town Manager Hodgkins stated the Town received an offer from Barry Newton to purchase a 0.09 acre lot owned by the Town located at 4359 Railroad Street.  He stated there were no additional bids received through the upset bid process.  He recommended adoption of a resolution to authorize the sale of the lot to Newton.

Commissioner Elks made a motion to adopt Resolution (2019) 1440, Resolution Authorizing Disposal of Certain Real Property on Railroad Street (4359).  The motion carried unanimously.

13. Resolution Authorizing Sale of Surplus Real Property at 4363 Railroad Street

Town Manager Hodgkins stated the Town received an offer from Barry Newton to purchase a 0.11 acre lot owned by the Town located at 4363 Railroad Street.  He stated there were no additional bids received through the upset bid process.  He recommended adoption of a resolution to authorize the sale of the lot to Newton.

Commissioner Hobbs made a motion to adopt Resolution (2019) 1441, Resolution Authorizing Disposal of Certain Real Property on Railroad Street (4363).  The motion carried unanimously.

14. Resolution Authorizing Sale of Surplus Real Property at 4371 Railroad Street

Town Manager Hodgkins stated the Town received an offer from Barry Newton to purchase a 0.07 acre lot owned by the Town located at 4371 Railroad Street.  He stated there were no additional bids received through the upset bid process.  He recommended adoption of a resolution to authorize the sale of the lot to Newton.

Commissioner Shackleford made a motion to adopt Resolution (2019) 1442, Resolution Authorizing Disposal of Certain Real Property on Railroad Street (4371).  The motion carried unanimously.

15. Consideration of a Sewer Line and Infrastructure Reimbursement Agreement

      Between the Town of Farmville, Murphrey Development, LLC, and Houses BPR,

      LLC for Serving the Proposed Dalton’s Cove Subdivision

Town Manager Hodgkins presented a proposed reimbursement agreement for sewer service for the Dalton’s Cove Subdivision.  He stated the document has been reviewed and agreed to by Town staff, the Town Attorney, the subdivision developers, and the attorney for the developers, pending Board of Commissioner approval.

Commissioner Moore made a motion to approve the proposed reimbursement agreement for sewer service for the Dalton’s Cove Subdivision.  The motion carried unanimously. 

17. Consideration of Final Agenda for Annual Board of Commissioners Planning

      Retreat

Town Manager Hodgkins asked for approval of the final agenda for the Board of Commissioners Annual Planning Retreat.

On motion by Commissioner Hobbs, the Board approved the final agenda for their retreat.  The motion carried unanimously. 

Information Only

18. Budget Calendar for FY 2018/2019

19. Minutes of January 7, 2019 (Regular Meeting)

      (Previously approved per Board action on January 7, 2019)

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Citizen comments

Mayor Evans asked for citizen comments at this time.

Steven Hardy-Braz expressed his concern for the safety of residents of new subdivision trying to walk to school and cross the busy intersection.

Adjournment

On motion by Commissioner Dixon, the meeting was adjourned at 7:59 p.m.  The motion carried unanimously.

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The Farmville Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Monday, January 7, 2019 at 6:30 p.m. in the Municipal Building Courtroom with Mayor Robert Evans presiding.  Present for the meeting were Commissioners Brenda Elks, Alma Hobbs, Jamin Dixon, David Shackleford and John Moore; Town Attorney Christopher Edwards; Town Manager David Hodgkins and Town Clerk Amy B. Johnson. 

Mayor Evans called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. 

Pastor Lester Gay from the Community Fellowship Ministries Church in Farmville offered the invocation, which was followed by the pledge of allegiance to the flag.

Mayor Evans stated there were no citizen presentations for this evening.

Town Manager Hodgkins had the following comments:

• Town is in the process of conducting a Parks and Recreation program and facility survey to provide input into an update of the comprehensive master plan.  The link to the survey will be widely publicized to inform the public where to retrieve the survey forms or how to access the online link.
• The Town is down two full-time staff in the Recreation Department but all activities are still being conducted.  Cheerleading is contracted through an outside person and has been delayed due to a family emergency with the instructor but should start soon.
• A new Parks & Recreation Director has been hired to start on Thursday, January 10^th and his name is Cailan Gray.
• A new Planning Director has been hired to start on Monday, January 14^th and his name is Justin Oaks.

Major Jeffrey Spencer introduced a new police officer, Kacey Auton.

Finance Director Amy Johnson provided the financial report for the month of December, 2018.

Mayor Evans asked if there were any additional changes to the agenda.

Town Manager Hodgkins recommended the following changes to the agenda:

• Add agenda item #5A – Sale of Surplus Town Property- 4371 Railroad Street
• Add agenda item #5B – Sale of Surplus Town Property- 4363 Railroad Street
• Add agenda item #5C – Sale of Surplus Town Property- 4359 Railroad Street
• Add agenda item #6A – Sale of Surplus Town Property- 3818 South Main Street

On motion by Commissioner Moore, the Board approved the addition of agenda item #s 5A, 5B and 5C to the evening’s consent agenda.  The motion carried unanimously. 

Commissioner Moore made a motion to approve the addition of agenda item #6A to the items for discussion portion of the meeting, with the exclusion of Commissioner Dixon from voting.  The motion carried unanimously. 

Commissioner Moore made a motion to move agenda item# 8 up in the meeting to be handled after agenda item # 6A.  The motion carried unanimously. 

Special Presentation

1.  Proclamation on Human Trafficking on Awareness Month- Mayor Evans

Melinda Sampson read a proclamation declaring January as Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention Month in Farmville and thanked the Mayor and Board of Commissioners for supporting efforts to end human trafficking.  She informed the Board of an upcoming event to be held at Farmville Middle School on January 15^th from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. that will be a forum to discuss human trafficking prevention.

Public Hearings

2.  Annexation Petition- SP+D Farmville LLC

Town Manager Hodgkins stated the public hearing was to receive citizen input on the proposed annexation of 5 acres of property owned by SP+D Farmville LLC adjacent to the Hunter’s Ridge Apartments.

Mayor Evans declared the public hearing to be open at 6:53 p.m.

There being no comments, Mayor Evans closed the public hearing at 6:54 p.m.

Commissioner made a motion to approve the annexation and adopted Ordinance (2019) 924, Ordinance to Extend the Corporate Limits of the Town of Farmville, North Carolina.  The motion carried unanimously. 

3.  2013 CDBG-I Closeout

Mike Barnette, with McDavid Associates, stated that the hearing serves as the closeout public hearing for the 2013 CDBG-I program.  He further stated that the program installed sanitary sewer improvements in Watkins MHP and was funded with $2,426,600 of CDBG-I funds.  He asked for authorization to be given for the Mayor to approve the minutes of this meeting so that they may be included in the closeout package to be sent to the Division of Water Infrastructure.

Mayor Evans declared the public hearing to be open at 6:56 p.m.

There being no comments, Mayor Evans closed the public hearing at 6:57 p.m.

Commissioner Elks asked about the buffer that was supposed to be placed between the mobile home park and the Cannon/Farrior property. 

Mike Barnette stated he had spoken with the Crisp family about this and they assured him it will be done.

Commissioner Elks stated that she was very upset because they did not do what they agreed to do within the anticipated time frame.

The Board requested for Town Attorney Edwards to go back and look at the agreement between the Crisp family and the Town of Farmville to review what was required of the park owners.

On motion by Commissioner Dixon, the Board authorized the Mayor to approve the minutes of this meeting.  The motion carried 3 to 2, with Commissioners Dixon, Shackleford and Hobbs voting in the affirmative and Commissioners Elks and Moore voting in the negative.

Items for Consent

4.  Approval of Minutes

     To approve the minutes from the following session:

• December 3, 2018 Regular Session

5.  Appointment of Fire Chief for 2019

     To approve the appointment of Tommy Brady as the Fire Chief for another one-year

     term.

5A. Sale of Surplus Town Property – 4371 Railroad Street

To consider an offer to purchase from Barry Newton and adopt a resolution to begin the process of disposing of the property through the upset bid process as authorized by NCGS 160A-2639.

5B. Sale of Surplus Town Property – 4363 Railroad Street

To consider an offer to purchase from Barry Newton and adopt a resolution to begin the process of disposing of the property through the upset bid process as authorized by NCGS 160A-2639.

5C. Sale of Surplus Town Property – 4359 Railroad Street

To consider an offer to purchase from Barry Newton and adopt a resolution to begin the process of disposing of the property through the upset bid process as authorized by NCGS 160A-2639.

On motion by Commissioner Moore,HHSSSS the Board approved/adopted the following:

• Approved the minutes from the December 7^th regular session
• Approved the Appointment of Tommy Brady as the Fire Chief for another one year term
• Adopted Resolution (2019) 1428, Resolution Authorizing Upset Bid Process for Disposal of Certain Real Property- 4371 Railroad St
• Adopted Resolution (2019) 1429, Resolution Authorizing Upset Bid Process for Disposal of Certain Real Property- 4363 Railroad St
• Adopted Resolution (2019) 1430, Resolution Authorizing Upset Bid Process for Disposal of Certain Real Property- 4359 Railroad St

The motion carried unanimously. 

Items for Decision

6A.Sale of Surplus Town Property- 3818 South Main Street

To consider an offer to purchase from Jamin Dixon and adopt a resolution to begin the process of disposing of the property through the upset bid process as authorized by NCGS 160A-2639.

Commissioner Moore motion to adopt Resolution (2019) 1431, Resolution Authorizing Upset Bid Process for Disposal of Certain Real Property- 3818 South Main St.  The motion carried 4 to 0, with Commissioner Dixon abstaining.

8.  Jones Street Storm Drainage Contract Award

Mike Barnette stated that the Town was awarded a $102,000 Golden LEAF Disaster Recovery Grant through the NC Department of Commerce to replace failed storm drainage facilities located along Jones Street.  He further stated informal bids were received on December 4, 2018 and Tripp Bro’s. Inc. submitted the only bid received in the amount of $47,750.  Barnette requested that the Board award the contract to Tripp Bro’s and adopt a resolution establishing the Capital Project Budget Ordinance.

On motion by Commissioner Hobbs, the Board adopted Resolution (2019) 1432, Establishing Capital Project Budget Ordinance and Awarding Construction Contract, 2018 Golden Leaf Disaster Recovery Project, Contract No.1 – Jones Street Drainage Improvements.  The motion carried 4 to 1, with Commissioners Elks, Moore, Hobbs and Shackleford voting in the affirmative and Commissioner Dixon voting in the negative.

6.  Zoning Text Amendment to Add a Solar Power Overlay District as a New District  

     in the Farmville Zoning Ordinance that Could Overlay Existing Industrial or RA-

     20 Zoning Districts

Town Manager Hodgkins asked for approval of the zoning text amendment to add the Solar Power Overlay District as a new district that could overlay existing Industrial and RA-20 Zoning Districts in the Zoning Ordinance. 

Commissioner Elks made a motion to approve the zoning text amendment as presented and adopted Ordinance (2019) 925, An Ordinance to Amend the Code of Ordinances, Title XV, Chapter 157, Zoning of the Town of Farmville to Create a New Solar Power Overlay District.  The motion carried unanimously. 

7.  Proposed Easement for Conterra Ultra Broadband LLC at Farmville Well Site

     #17

Utilities System Analyst Carroll Griffin stated Conterra Networks is requesting approval of an easement to place communications equipment on Town property located at 6672 Stantonsburg Road, which is Well 17 on our water system.  Griffin explained that in exchange for the easement, Conterra is offering to provide the Town with 500 Mb of dedicated internet access with an option to upgrade to 1 Gb for $250.00 per month.  He added this would save the Town about $500 monthly.

Commissioner Elks made a motion to grant easement to Conterra in exchange for internet service.  The motion carried unanimously. 

9.   Presentation Regarding Condition of H. B. Sugg Community Center

Joyce Wilkes from the H.B. Sugg Community Center, introduced Adrian Dixon and Pastor Ronnie Wilkes to speak on behalf of the center.

Adrian Dixon stated they had to close the daycare center on December 28, 2018 due to the poor condition of the roof due to age and various storms.  He said they must get the roof repaired in order to re-open the center and get revenue back flowing and get the children back before they lose them permanently to other daycares.

Pastor Ronnie Wilkes, CEO of the center, stated that the closing has resulted in loss of revenue to operate the center, potential loss of children to other daycares, and 9 employees out of work.  He asked the Town to contribute $25,000 for emergency funding to repair the roof.

Town Manager Hodgkins stated he could do some exploration before the next meeting in February to see what funding mechanisms may be available. 

Commissioner Moore requested a ten minutes break to make a phone call.

Mayor Evans called a brief recess at 7:38 p.m.  The meeting reconvened at 7:52 p.m.

Commissioner Moore stated that he and Joyce Wilkes had spoken with the right people and will hopefully have it settled in the morning.  Moore asked the Board to agree to have a special called meeting if necessary.

Commissioner Moore made a motion to delay a decision until receiving further information from Joyce Wilkes, and to be prepared to have a special called meeting.  The motion carried unanimously.

10. Consideration of Draft Agenda for Annual Board of Commissioners Planning

      Retreat

Town Manager Hodgkins presented a draft agenda for the Annual Board of Commissioners Retreat and asked for members to offer any additions as soon as possible.

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Citizen comments

Mayor Evans asked for citizen comments at this time.

There were no comments.

Adjournment

On motion by Commissioner Hobbs, the meeting was adjourned at 7:59 p.m.  The motion carried unanimously.

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Town of Farmville

Board of Commissioners

December 3, 2018

The Farmville Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Monday, December 3, 2018 at 4:00 p.m. in the Municipal Building Courtroom with Mayor Robert Evans presiding.  Present for the meeting were Commissioners Brenda Elks, Alma Hobbs, Jamin Dixon, David Shackleford and John Moore; Town Attorney Christopher Edwards; Town Manager David Hodgkins and Town Clerk Amy B. Johnson. 

Mayor Evans called the meeting to order at 4:00 p.m. 

Pastor Tim Leggett from the Spring of Living Waters Church in Farmville offered the invocation, which was followed by the pledge of allegiance to the flag.

Mayor Evans stated there were no citizen presentations for this evening.

Town Manager Hodgkins stated he had the following comments:

• OSHA was invited by the Town to do mock inspections on November 20th of the facilities to look for potential violations.  The report found no hazards in the Police Department or Utilities Department, and the Town was praised for their commitment to safety.  The report did show two minor findings in the Utilities Dept. that are already being corrected.
• Garden Club is working with Public Works to beautify Town Commons with new shrubs and flowers.
• Christmas Parade is Saturday, December 8 at 10:30 a.m.
• May Museum Christmas Tea is on Sunday, December 9 from 3:00 – 5:30 p.m.

Finance Director Amy Johnson provided the financial report for the month of October, 2018.

Mayor Evans asked if there were any additional changes to the agenda.

Town Manager Hodgkins recommended the following changes to the agenda:

• Remove item #8 – Dalton’s Cove Subdivision
• Remove item #9 – Strata Solar
• Add item #5A – FCHS Students Presentation

On motion by Commissioner Elks, the Board approved the above changes to the agenda.  The motion carried unanimously. 

Items for Consent

1.  Approval of Minutes

     To approve the minutes from the following sessions:

• November 5, 2018 Regular session (change David Dupree to Bobby Joyner, change Commissioner Hobbs’ comment to say mid-year instead of more frequent employee evaluations)
• November 5, 2018 Closed session

2.  Resolution Authorizing Sale of Surplus Personal Property

To adopt a resolution declaring certain personal property as surplus and authorize the sale utilizing private sale at a negotiated price as authorized by NCGS 160A-267.

3.  Ordinance Amending the FY 2018/2019 Budget Ordinance – Police Vehicles

To adopt an ordinance amending the FY 2018-2018 budget to recognize extra funds received from Pitt County Schools for the SRO position at the Elementary School in order to purchase four late model police cars from the Town of Ayden.

4.  Ordinance Amending the FY 2018/2019 Budget Ordinance- Police Pistol Range

To adopt an ordinance amending the FY 2018/2019 budget to place funds received from the Pitt County ABC Commission into the Police Department to help offset the expense for the construction of the pistol range on Stantonsburg Road.

On motion by Commissioner Dixon,HHSSSS the Board approved/adopted the following:

• Approved the minutes from the November 5^th regular and closed sessions
• Adopted Resolution (2018) 1427, Resolution Authorizing Town Manager to Dispose of Surplus Property by Private Sale
• Adopted Ordinance (2018) 922, An Ordinance Amending the FY 2018-2019 Budget Ordinance – Police Dept. Police Cars
• Adopted Ordinance (2018) 923, An Ordinance Amending the FY 2018-2019 Budget Ordinance – Police Dept. Pistol Range

The motion carried unanimously. 

Items for Decision

5A. Farmville Central High School

Students from Farmville Central High School spoke to the Board asking them for assistance, advice or suggestions of how to get more parent/student involvement at the high school.  They also want to increase and improve parent awareness, which will lead to improved academic success.

5.  Special Presentation- Herbert Weatherford, Regional Director of North and

     Central America, Alliance One

Herbert Weatherford, Regional Director of North and Central America for Alliance One, provided clarification and more detailed information on the company’s recent announcement to eliminate more than 500 seasonal jobs at the Farmville facility.  He also provided insight on the future of the Alliance One facility in Farmville.

6.  Donation of Real Property to the Town – 4305 West Pine Street

Code Enforcement Director Paul Ellis stated that Edgar Wall, owner of 4305 West Pine Street property (parcel 17600), wishes to donate the property to the Town of Farmville to be used for any purpose.  Ellis stated that all taxes have been paid on the property and there are no liens.

Commissioner Hobbs made a motion to accept the donation of parcel 17600 from Edgar Wall.  The motion carried unanimously.

7.  Consideration of a New Lease Agreement with the Boys and Girls Club for Use of

     Town Owned Property Located at 3443 Park Street

Town Manager Hodgkins presented a new lease agreement for approval between the Boys and Girls Club and the Town.

Commissioner Moore made a motion to approve the lease agreement with the added changes suggested by Commissioner Dixon (to make clear the financial responsibility of the Town versus the Boys and Girls Club).  The motion carried unanimously. 

8.  Consideration of Sewer Line and Infrastructure Reimbursement Agreement

     Between the Town of Farmville, Murphrey Development, LLC, and Houses BPR,

     LLC for Serving the Proposed Dalton’s Cove Subdivision

Agenda item removed by request of both parties.

9.   Zoning Text Amendment to Add a Solar Power Overlay District as a New District

      in the Farmville Zoning Ordinance that Could Overlay Existing Industrial or RA-

      20 Zoning Districts

Agenda item removed by request of applicant.

10. Board of Commissioners Annual Retreat

Commissioner Moore made a motion to have the annual retreat on February 18^th & 19^th, in the courtroom starting at 9:00 a.m. with a facilitator. The motion carried unanimously. 

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Citizen comments

Mayor Evans asked for citizen comments at this time.

Commissioner Elks reminded everyone that Shop with a Cop will be on December 14^th and the Polar Express movie at the Arts Council will be on December 15^th.

Adjournment

On motion by Commissioner Elks, the meeting was adjourned at 5:28 p.m.  The motion carried unanimously.

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Town of Farmville

Board of Commissioners

November 5, 2018

The Farmville Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Monday, November 5, 2018 at 6:30 p.m. in the Municipal Building Courtroom with Mayor Robert Evans presiding.  Present for the meeting were Commissioners Brenda Elks, Alma Hobbs, Jamin Dixon, David Shackleford and John Moore; Town Attorney Christopher Edwards; Town Manager David Hodgkins and Town Clerk Amy B. Johnson. 

Mayor Evans called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. 

Pastor Cedric Frisbee from the Saint John Baptist Church in Farmville offered the invocation, which was followed by the pledge of allegiance to the flag.

Citizen Presentations

Mayor Evans recognized Brenda Elks and those involved for their outstanding job with Hometown Halloween.

Mayor Evans recognized Minerva Freeman, representing a local sorority.  Ms. Freeman stated that their Sorority did service work in this area and she gave each Commissioner a snack bag.  She also informed the Board of the services they do like trash pickup and other community work.  She stated they were here to help.

Mayor Evans recognized Bobby Joyner.  Mr. Joyner asked for a donation from the Town to complete Phase 2 of the HB Sugg Memorial Park Project.

Commissioner Elks made a motion to add the donation request to the Agenda under Item G.  The motion carried unanimously. 

Mayor Evans recognized Diane Hudson.  Ms. Hudson expressed her concern over some drainage issues at the corner of Allen Street and Contentnea Street.  She stated she had contacted Public Works and the Town Manager and wanted to know when it would be taken care of.

Town Manager Hodgkins stated he had the following comments:

• There was minimal damage during Hurricane Florence and the first official FEMA meeting with held today and the Town should expect reimbursement shortly.
• Cindy Thomas provided the Board with all upcoming events.
• Pitt County, the City of Greenville and Greenville Utilities are involved in a  process to unify economic development efforts in the county.  They are trying to come up with strategies that involve all parts of the county with the first meeting to be held on Thursday this week and the Town will have representation at that meeting.

Finance Director Amy Johnson provided the financial report for the month of October, 2018.

Mayor Evans asked if there were any additional changes to the agenda.

Mayor Evans presented the following changes to the evening’s agenda:

• Add Agenda item #10 – HB Sugg Funding Request

Commissioner Elks made a motion to approve the above changes to the evening’s agenda.  The motion carried unanimously. 

Public Hearing

 1.  Structure for Demolition- 3660 Cameron Street

Code Enforcement Director Paul Ellis requested permission to demolish the property located at 3660 Cameron Street (Parcel 12012).

      Mayor Evans opened the public hearing at 6:50 p.m.

There being no further comments, Mayor Evans closed the public hearing at 6:51 p.m.

On motion by Commissioner Dixon, the Board adopted Ordinance (2018) 920, An Ordinance Directing the Building Official to Demolish the Property herein Described as being Dangerous and Unsafe and Directing that a Notice be Placed Thereon, and that Same may not be Occupied until Demolished.  The motion carried unanimously.

 2.  Structure for Demolition- 4393 Wallace Street

Code Enforcement Director Paul Ellis requested permission to demolish the property located at 3660 Cameron Street (Parcel 01975).

      Mayor Evans opened the public hearing at 6:53 p.m.

There being no further comments, Mayor Evans closed the public hearing at 6:54 p.m.

On motion by Commissioner Hobbs, the Board adopted Ordinance (2018) 921, An Ordinance Directing the Building Official to Demolish the Property herein Described as being Dangerous and Unsafe and Directing that a Notice be Placed Thereon, and that Same may not be Occupied until Demolished.  The motion carried unanimously.

3.  Zoning Text Amendment to Add a Solar Power Overlay District as a New District

     in the Farmville Zoning Ordinance that Could Overlay Existing Industrial or RA-

     20 Zoning Districts

Town Manager Hodgkins stated the public hearing was to receive citizen input on a Zoning Text Amendment to add the Solar Power Overlay District as a new District that could overlay existing Industrial and RA-20 Zoning Districts in the Zoning Ordinance.  Hodgkins stated the Planning Board recommended approval of this amendment after extensive discussion.

Mayor Evans opened the public hearing at 6:56 p.m.

Tom Terrell, from Fox Rothschild LLC, the law firm representing Strata Solar, provided an explanation for the request of the zoning text amendment.

Todd Williams, from Worthington Farms, assured the Board that whatever is planted around the solar farm will completely buffer it from adjacent properties and the structures will have a setback 1800 feet from the road.  He said they have recommended for Strata Solar to plant something native like wax myrtles with a double row of them.  Mr. Williams also suggested for Strata to use a local contractor to do the work.

Jackson Naftel, Director of Development for Strata Solar, provided images of the buffer described by Todd Williams.  He said letters and pictures have been sent to all nearby landowners informing them of what is going on.

Bert Smith, a representative from the Planning Board, spoke in favor of the zoning text amendment and stated the recommendation from the Planning Board was a unanimous vote.  He stated they put further restrictions on the amendment such as the three-mile limit which would prevent another solar farm from going anywhere else in town.

There being no further comments, Mayor Evans closed the public hearing at 7:40 p.m.

Commissioner Dixon made a motion to approve the text amendment to the RA-20 Zoning District. 

Town Manager Hodgkins asked for Commissioner Dixon to clarify his motion since this is adding an overly district to the zoning ordinance which could apply to RA-20 or Industrial Districts.  He asked for Dixon to not reference a zoning district or state both RA-20 and Industrial Districts.

After a discussion, Commissioner Dixon withdrew his motion.

The Board requested more information including an explanation of the overlay district concept, a timeline of construction, and more explanation of the request for a deeper understanding of what is being requested.

Commissioner Elks made a motion to postpone this agenda item until more information can be obtained and to address at December meeting.  The motion carried unanimously.

Items for Consent

4.  Approval of Minutes

     To approve the minutes from the following sessions:

• October 1, 2018 Regular session

5.  Consider Moving the Regular December Board of Commissioners Meeting from

     December 3 to December 4 Due to the Fire Department Christmas Party

     To approve the moving of the December meeting to December 4, 2018

Commissioner Moore suggested moving the time of the December 3^rd meeting instead of moving the date.

On motion by Commissioner Moore,HHSSSS the Board approved/adopted the following:

• Approved the minutes from the October 1^st regular session
• Approved the moving of the time for the December 3, 2018, Board of Commissioners meeting to 4:00 p.m.

The motion carried unanimously. 

Items for Decision

6.  2018 Annual Planning Retreat Action Update

Town Manager Hodgkins presented an update on the progress of the 2018 Annual Planning Retreat action plan.

7.  Report on Traffic Control Efforts on Ryon Drive

Police Chief Donnie Greene stated they set one pair of speed bumps at Ryon Drive and it has been effective so far.  Greene stated they plan to order more that they can get for free but could not place the order until November 6^th.

8.  Consideration of Amendments to the Town Employee Personnel Policy

Town Manager Hodgkins presented amendments for consideration to the Town Employee Personnel Policy. 

Commissioner Hobbs suggested that the policy allow for mid-year evaluations of employees than just annually.

On motion by Commissioner Dixon, the Board approved the amendments to the Town Employee Personnel Policy with the addition of allowing supervisors an opportunity to perform additional evaluations for employee work performance.  The motion carried unanimously. 

9.  Consideration of One Time Contribution to the Farmville Chamber of Commerce

     for a Taste of Farmville

Commissioner Jamin Dixon stated the Taste of Farmville event this year is going to be the biggest ever with the largest number of merchants participating than ever before.  Dixon further stated that more money would be needed to pay for the extra musicians and supplies.  He requested a one-time contribution of $1,500 to help support the Chamber.

Commissioner Elks made a motion to approve a one-time contribution of $1,500 to the Farmville Chamber of Commerce to support the 2018 Taste of Farmville event.  The motion carried unanimously. 

10. HB Sugg Funding Request for Memorial Park Project

Commissioner Moore made a motion to match the $5,300 that Mr. Dupree and his group has already raised for Phase 2 of the project, with the possibility of giving additional funds in the FY 19/20 Budget.  The motion carried unanimously. 

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Citizen comments

Mayor Evans asked for citizen comments at this time.

There were no citizen comments.

Closed Session

On motion by Commissioner Hobbs, the Board adjourned into closed session at 8:20 p.m., pursuant to G.S. 143-318.11(a)(5), to instruct the public body’s staff concerning the position to be taken by, or on behalf of the public body in negotiating the material terms of a contract, or proposed contract for the acquisition of real property by purchase, option, exchange, or lease.  The motion carried unanimously.

On motion by Commissioner Hobbs, the Board returned into regular session at 9:36 p.m.  The motion carried unanimously.

Adjournment

On motion by Commissioner Moore, the meeting was adjourned at 9:37 p.m.  The motion carried unanimously.