Wendell News Outlet

The Wendell Town Board of Commissioners will continue to accept applications for nominations for the Planning Board, Tree Board, Board of Adjustment and the Parks and Recreation Commission (terms to begin on July 1, 2008). Applications are available at Town Hall or online at www.townofwendell.com. Applications need to be received at Town Hall by Tuesday, May 27th 2008 to be presented to the board at the May 27th Committee Meeting @ 7:00 p.m. For additional information contact Town Clerk Jonnie Driver at 365-4444 or send an e-mail to jdriver@townofwendell.com

Board of Commissioners Friday Update

April 25, 2008

ITEM 1. ETJ EXPANSION REQUEST PRESENTATION TO LEGISLATORS

The mayor will present the town’s ETJ extension request to the full Wake County Legislative delegation at a 3:00 p.m. meeting on Monday, April 28^th. Anyone interesting in attending this meeting should contact the manager.

ITEM 2. ANNEXATION MATTER

As the board is aware, The NC House Select Committee on Annexation voted on April 23^rd to recommend a moratorium on all city-initiated annexations, including all those currently pending, and all satellite annexations, including pending ones. The moratorium, if adopted by the General Assembly, would remain in place until June 30, 2009.

The committee recommended halting all city-initiated and satellite annexations to give the study committee additional time to determine whether changes to the state’s annexation statutes are needed. All city-initiated annexations would be affected, even those for which a council already has passed an ordinance that is not yet effective. Satellite annexations, done at the request of the property owners, also would be covered by the moratorium.

Some language in the April 23^rd vote is vague, and there are multiple interpretations flying around as to what effect a moratorium bill could have on towns. A proposed bill to implement a moratorium will be up for adoption at the May 14^th committee meeting, at which time the details would be known.

Once approved by the Committee, the moratorium would still need to be approved by the General Assembly. It is possible that the bill could call for a halt to all annexations not yet in effect as of the date the bill became law. Because of the potentially far-reaching effects of this recommendation and the approach of the legislative session, the NC League of Municipalities has asked its members to contact members of the General Assembly now to help them understand the consequences of a moratorium on the cities in their districts.

It has been suggested that the board may want to add this issue as a discussion item for the April 28^th work session. (The agenda packet for this meeting was already fairly complete when this news began to be circulated Wednesday evening.) The board may wish to direct staff to draft a resolution on this matter for the May 12^th board meeting.

ITEM 3. PUBLIC MEETING ABOUT MASTER PLAN FOR LAKE MYRA PARK – TUESDAY, APRIL 29^TH AT 7:00 P.M. AT WENDELL COMMUNITY CENTER

Wake County will hold a public meeting about plans for Lake Myra Park on Tuesday, April 29^th at 7:00 p.m. at the Wendell Community Center. Citizens in Eastern Wake County are invited to attend the forum to learn about and participate in the planning process for the new Lake Myra County Park.

Additionally, the county is asking for feedback in the history and personal memories of the site. Anyone with photographs or memorabilia they wish to share is encouraged to bring them to the meeting.

ITEM 4. PUBLIC MEETING ABOUT POLICE CHIEF HIRING

Please remember that the board established the following opportunities for the public and board to give input to the manager about knowledge, skills, abilities and traits desired in a new police chief:

· Thursday, May 1^st at 7:00 p.m. – meeting to receive input from the public about the knowledge, skills and abilities desired in a new police chief.

· Thursday May 8^th at 7:00 p.m. – meeting to receive input from the mayor and commissioners.

ITEM 5. BUDGET WORK SESSION FOLLOW-UP

Thank you to the mayor and commissioners for your diligence and patience with Tuesday’s budget session.

The presentation of the Manager’s Proposed Budget and Budget Message is scheduled for the May 12^th board meeting. The public hearing on the budget is scheduled for the Tuesday, May 27^th work session.

According to the 2008-09 Budget Development Calendar, May 13 – 30^th is tentatively scheduled for any additional budget work sessions. If the board would like to meet during this time or prior to the May 12^th meeting in order to give additional feedback to the manager, please let him know.

ITEM 6. UPDATE ON SCHOOL BOARD ELECTION ISSUE

WRAL-TV reports that the governing boards of Wake Forest, Zebulon, Morrisville and Wendell all agree that it’s better to leave the school board elections alone.
Neither Raleigh, Fuquay-Varina nor Knightdale has taken a formal position on the subject, but a Raleigh City Council member has publicly stated that Raleigh will likely take a stand on the issue at the council’s meeting next week, and she feels that Raleigh will support the status quo. Knightdale is also expected to take a stand on the issue in the near future. Click here to view this story.

ITEM 7. GOOD NEWS ABOUT HEALTH INSURANCE

The town has received the news yesterday (Thursday, April 25^th) that Wellpath will renew the town’s medical insurance AT NO ADDITIONAL EXPENSE – a 0% increase in rates!! The manager and finance director included a 10% increase in medical insurance costs for the draft budget. A 10% increase would have cost the town another $14,000.

The town’s broker is still seeking quotes from other providers. Maybe we will get an even better quote from a Wellpath competitor, but it is great to know that we can provide medical insurance coverage to our employees without any increase in cost.

ITEM 8. DROUGHT UPDATE

The drought continued to ease across the state over the past week, though conditions in much of the Triangle remained "severe," according to the U.S. Drought Monitor's report.

For the first time since June 2007, conditions are back to normal in some North Carolina counties. Six coastal counties -- Pamlico, Hyde, Dare, Carteret, Tyrrell and Washington -- are no longer considered even "abnormally dry" in the weekly report. They account for about 12 percent of the state's area.

About a third of the state -- 34 percent -- was still in "extreme" or "severe" drought status in today's report, down from 46 percent last week.

Eastern Wake County has been downgraded to the “Moderate Drought” category. Click here to read a News and Observer article. Click here to view the US Drought Monitor map for North Carolina.

ITEM 9. OTHER:

A. The Council of Churches will hold its annual National Day of Prayer observation in the Wendell courtroom on Thursday, May 1^st from 12:00 p.m. until 1:00 p.m.

B. Rep. Linda Coleman and the Eastern Regional Center (along with multiple partners, including the Town of Wendell) will hold a public health forum / health fair on Saturday, May 31^st from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at the Wendell Community Center and Park.

ITEM 10. UPCOMING EVENTS:

DATE TIME EVENT

04/28 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Committee Meeting at Town Hall
05/01 12:00 p.m. Council of Churches National Day of Prayer Observation at Town Hall
05/01 7:00 p.m. Public Meeting to Receive Input about Desired Traits and Skills for a New Police Chief at Town Hall
05/05 6:00 p.m. UDO Meeting at Town Hall
05/01 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting to Give Input about Desired Traits and Skills for a New Police Chief at Town Hall
05/12 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting at Town Hall
05/14 1:00 p.m. Wendell Chamber Golf Tournament at Wendell Country Club
05/19 7:00 p.m. Planning Board Meeting at Town Hall
05/26 Memorial Day – Town offices closed
05/27 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Committee Meeting at Town Hall
05/31 East Wake Public Health Forum at Wendell Community Ctr.
06/02 6:00 p.m. UDO Meeting at Town Hall
06/04 NCLM Town Hall Day at NC Legislature
06/09 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting at Town Hall

New census data ranking Wake County 7th in the nation in growth is, well, BIG. Over 38,000 people moved to our county between 2006-2007 -- that's about 100 people a day! And the Raleigh metro area (including Wake, Franklin and Johnston Counties) just ranked 3rd in growth rate nationwide. Lot's of people are coming here, and we need to be ready with key infrastructure including water, schools and transportation. And how will this growth be paid for? WakeUP continues to advocate fairness in growth funding that doesn't disproportionately hit existing taxpayers. and more. Click here to read WakeUP Chair, Karen Rindge's op-ed in the News&Observer on growth. (may need to scroll down on N&O site)

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WakeUP's mission is to be a citizen voice for quality, long-term growth. We are working to represent YOU! To help WakeUP do this work, we need your financial support. Please send in your 2008 $25 membership dues TODAY. Click here to donate.

Drought? WakeUP makes recommendations to keep water flowing.

Following WakeUP's water forum, WakeUP Wake County's team of committed team of water experts developed recommendations for long-term water supply and water conservation. Our water recommedations are geared towards Raleigh's Public Utility, which provides drinking water to Raleigh, Garner, Knightdale, Rolesville, Wake Forest, Wendell and Zebulon. WakeUP is concerned that given historic drought and future climate predications -- combined with continued growth -- we may not have enough water supply long-term. We'd like to see Raleigh appoint a Water Stewardship Advisory Board to take a hard and honest look at water plans as well as how we are paying for needed new water infrastructure. Go to WakeUP's website to read our full list of recommendations for water supply and conservation (to make our water last longer). Talk to Mayor Meeker and other mayors and urge them to consider our proposals.

Join WakeUP's Transportation & Land Use Team! We're speaking out for regional transit...

The Triangle's Special Transit Advisory Commission (STAC) is ready to issue recommendations for a transit plan for Wake, Durham and Orange Counties. Greg Flynn has represented WakeUP on the STAC for the last several months. Now WakeUP is forming a team of volunteers interested in a bold transit plan for the Triangle region. Interested in joining us? Contact Karen Rindge at krindge@earthlink.net. All welcome! Below are excerpts from WakeUP Wake County's remarks on transit given at NCPIRG's press conference on transit, March 27: New census data ranks Wake County 7th in growth in the nation. A sobering statistic. Last year, 38,000 moved to Wake -- approximately 100 people per day. As we speak, there's another family coming down US 1. What's more, the Triangle grew over 30 percent from 2000-2007, and this growth will continue in coming decades. It's time to wake UP! Actions we take or don't now will affect our communities for decades. Now, more than ever, we need bold leadership from local, state and federal elected officials to plan for this growth. Transportation and land use planning are crucial to ensuring we have the best possible quality of life for all to enjoy. Our quality of life, including good jobs, water and air quality and open space will erode if we fail to plan for ways to move people efficiently. To be a 21st century metropolitan region and to build our local economy, we must build an interconnected transit system before it is too late. Wake's population is projected to double in just two decades. Road headaches will only worsen if we continue to delay planning and constructing a multi-modal transportation network to move people across the Triangle. The train is leaving the station, and we need to be on it! Miles driven daily by Raleigh citizens alone is well above the national average. What's more, 20% of the housing units in Raleigh have been built in just the last 7 years. These are key signs that we need to coordinate land use and transit needs today. We must act proactively now if we are to avoid the congestion, sprawl and air pollution of urban areas like Atlanta. Triangle officials of Wake, Durham and Orange Counties created a Special Transit Advisory Commission to plan for a regional transit system because our traffic flows between counties. Local leaders should follow through on the commission's recommendations and not succumb to political influence to weaken the plan. It's time to break the gridlock. We need bold leadership for a visionary transit plan. Transit makes our transportation system more efficient - saving money, saving energy and saving time. North Carolina needs to commit the resources necessary to build a 21st century transit system. Transit spending is a tiny percentage of funds committed to road building, and we call upon the General Assembly to significantly increase transit funding for urban areas. North Carolinians strongly support rail for both commuting and between major cities, according to an Elon poll released this week. What's more, the public is willing to help pay for rail. Voters in last year's municipal elections in Wake County sent a clear message -- they are concerned about growth and expect elected officials to be courageous, visionary leaders. If we want to be a 21st century capital region, it is time to act now for a regional transit plan.

Board of Commissioners Friday Update

April 18, 2008

ITEM 1. BUDGET WORK SESSION ON TUESDAY, APRIL 22^ND AT 10:00 A.M. IN THE COURTROOM

The board will hold its budget work session with the manager and staff at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 22^nd in the courtroom. In addition to the budget, the draft 2009-13 Capital Improvement Plan will also be discussed.

ITEM 2. PUBLIC MEETING ABOUT MASTER PLAN FOR LAKE MYRA PARK – TUESDAY, APRIL 29^TH AT 7:00 P.M. AT WENDELL COMMUNITY CENTER

Wake County will hold a public meeting about plans for Lake Myra Park on Tuesday, April 29^th at 7:00 p.m. at the Wendell Community Center. Citizens in Eastern Wake County are invited to attend the forum to learn about and participate in the planning process for the new Lake Myra County Park.

Additionally, the county is asking for feedback in the history and personal memories of the site. Anyone with photographs or memorabilia they wish to share is encouraged to bring them to the meeting.

ITEM 3. PLANS FOR POLICE CHIEF HIRING

The plan to have focus groups to get input about the knowledge, skills and abilities desired in a new police chief is moving forward. Please remember that the board established the following dates at the manager’s request:

· Thursday, May 1^st at 7:00 p.m. – meeting to receive input from the public about the knowledge, skills and abilities desired in a new police chief.

· Thursday May 8^th at 7:00 p.m. – meeting to receive input from the mayor and commissioners.

Even though the board did not want to accept the cost of the MAPS Group for facilitation and logistical support in this recruitment / selection process, the manager still finds value in using an assessment center as a way to help evaluate candidates. To this end, the manager plans to organize an assessment center internally without paying a consultant.

ITEM 4. MEETING WITH LEGISLATORS

The mayor and manager, along with the mayors and managers of Knightdale and Zebulon, met with Sen. Vernon Malone and Rep. Linda Coleman on Thursday, April 17^th. The upcoming legislative session was discussed, including the town’s ETJ extension request.

The mayor will present the town’s ETJ extension request to the full Wake County Legislative delegation at a 3:00 p.m. meeting on Monday, April 28^th. Anyone interesting in attending this meeting should contact the manager.

ITEM 5. WENDELL FALLS UPDATE

The section of Martin Pond Road around Richardson Road is now closed and will be closed until about August 15^th, due to construction for Wendell Falls.

Wendell Falls is working with NCSU on an evaluation of “best management practices” for sedimentation control.

Click here to view the blog and latest information about Wendell Falls. On the blog, Greg Ferguson states that the tax base of Wendell Falls at build-out will likely be between $1.2 billion and $1.5 billion in today’s dollars. He also states that the 4,000 homes should have an average value of $300,000 each.

It is also stated on the blog that the first lots will be available this fall, and the first homes will be available at the beginning of 2009. Developers expect the pricing to be close to the following:

· The first price point (in this first delivery) will be $325,000-$450,000.

· The middle price point will be $275,000 to $350,000.

· The third price point will be $240,000 to $280,000.

ITEM 6. UPDATE ON PROPOSED COUNTYWIDE ANIMAL TAX

At its meeting on April 14^th, the County Commissioners discussed a proposed countywide licensing fee on dogs and cats but made no final decision. They talked about how to revamp and consolidate the way the county and its various cities and towns handle unwanted animals. As part of that effort, a standard, countywide fee has been proposed to raise revenue for improvements at the Wake animal shelter. Though the commissioners appeared to agree that more money for the shelter is needed, they questioned whether a countywide pet fee is a fair and reliable way to pay for it, especially if only a minority of pet owners pay, and there is no effective means of taking action against those who don't.

It is expected that county staff to revisit the proposal and return to the board with more ideas on how to pay for improvements at the shelter. The commissioners are expected to approve a budget in June for spending in the next fiscal year. Click here to read the N&O article.

ITEM 7. TENTATIVE PLANS FOR CONVERSION OF MEETING SCHEDULE TO TWO MEETINGS PER MONTH

At the March 19^th retreat, the Board of Commissioners discussed changing the meeting schedule from one meeting and one work session per month to two meetings per month. A draft ordinance change to officially make this request will be on the April 28^th work session agenda and is tentatively set for the May 12^th meeting. The manager and attorney suggest that if the board wants to make this change in the meeting schedule, the new schedule should start in July (with the new fiscal year). This would give the staff and attorney time to prepare for the change.

ITEM 8. OTHER:

A. There will be a ribbon-cutting for the new Snappy Lube at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 19^th. Mayor Pro Tem Bill Connolly will represent the town and cut the ribbon. Feel free to join him at the event.

B. According to Finance Director Butch Kay, the revenue neutral rate for the fire district is about 7.35 cents. There is some hope that there may be some adjustment from the current fire district tax of ten cents.

C. The Council of Churches will hold its annual National Day of Prayer observation in the Wendell courtroom on Thursday, May 1^st from 12:00 p.m. until 1:00 p.m.

ITEM 9. UPCOMING EVENTS:

DATE TIME EVENT

04/21 7:00 p.m. Planning Board Meeting @ Town Hall
04/22 10:00 a.m. Board of Commissioners Budget Work Session @ Town Hall
04/28 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Committee Meeting @ Town Hall
05/01 12:00 p.m. Council of Churches National Day of Prayer Observation @ Town Hall
05/01 7:00 p.m. Public Meeting to Receive Input about Desired Traits and Skills for a New Police Chief @ Town Hall
05/05 6:00 p.m. UDO Meeting @ Town Hall
05/08 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting to Give Input about Desired Traits and Skills for a New Police Chief @ Town Hall
05/12 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting (including presentation of the Manager’s FY 2008-09 Proposed Budget) @ Town Hall
05/14 1:00 p.m. Wendell Chamber Golf Tournament @ Wendell Country Club
05/19 7:00 p.m. Planning Board Meeting @ Town Hall
05/26 Memorial Day – Town offices closed
05/27 7:00 p.m. (RE-SCHEDULED DUE TO HOLIDAY) Board of Commissioners Committee Town Hall Meeting (including the public hearing on the budget) @ Town Hall
05/31 East Wake Public Health Forum @ Community Ctr.
06/02 6:00 p.m. UDO Meeting @ Town Hall
06/04 NCLM Town Hall Day @ NC Legislature
06/09 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting (including, potentially, adoption of the FY 2008-09 Budget) @ Town Hall

COMMUNITY FORUM #1

DATE AND TIME: Tuesday, April 29, 2008 at 7:00 p.m.

LOCATION: Wendell Community Center - Gymnasium

601 W. Third Street

Wendell, NC 27591

Citizens living in Eastern Wake County are invited to attend the first community forum to learn about and participate in the planning process for the new Lake Myra County Park. All interested citizens are encouraged to attend and help shape this new County Park.

We will review the following at the meeting:
• Introduce the public to the planning and design team
• Introduce the public to the project and the Master Plan process
• Define what a “County Park” means
• Review the site analysis / limits of site development to familiarize the public with the entire site
• Receive citizens feedback on the history and personal memories of the site
• Receive citizens initial thoughts on the shaping of the park
• Provide information on how to participate in an on-line survey
• Review the next steps and subsequent meeting

Any citizens, who have photographs or memorabilia that they wish to share, please bring them to the meeting. We will have the ability to scan photographs and other information for our project files.

Eric O. Staehle, RLA
Project Manager
Wake County Facilities Design & Construction
Ph:  919-856-6369
Fax:  919-856-6355

Following are comments submitted at the April 3rd Airport meeting.
Number corresponds to a submitted questionnaire.
A blank next to a number indicates no comment was found on that questionnaire.
A total of 42 questionnaires were turned in that evening.

Number Comments

1
2 I hope the airport will spur economic growth
3 Safety concerns for airport
4 against condemnation of property, expects unwanted noise and land value reduction, wants to preserve farms
5
6 airport could be a economic generator
7
8
9 let landowners know of decision soon
10
11 see no benefit, wants consideration dropped
12 wants to see 65 decibel contour line, who will pay for home soundproofing, 5-10 miles north of Wendell would be a better site
13 how much noise, ramifications of pollution
14 do we need one and who will pay for it
15 Bull****
16 How many night flights will occur with commercial shipping
17 concerned with cost, disruption of lives, doesn't believe this will generate income
18
19
20 wants to know economic impact
21
22
23 very much in favor
24 why aren't we using other airports in the area. Find another location
25
26 Wendell does not need it
27
28 no guarantee this will benefit Wendell
29 what will happen to property values, will it force people out of homes, noise concerns
30
31
32
33
34
35 Too much traffic & congestion
36
37 What infrastructure is available to service this kind of growth
38
39 No
40
41
42 Airport would be important to our economic viability

Total

April 3, 2008

Special Called Meeting of the Wendell Town Board of Commissioners Concerning The Airport Feasibility Study

The Wendell Town Board of Commissioners held a Special Called Meeting on Thursday, April 3, 2008 at 6:00 p.m. at the Wendell Community Center. The meeting began with an informal workshop that lasted until 7:30 p.m. The workshop included several maps showing the proposed sites for a General Aviation Airport in eastern Wake County, as well as information about the development of an airport and where in the process Wake County currently is.

Those speaking with the public during the workshop portion of the meeting included:
• Steve Bright, Talbert and Bright (consultants for Wake County on the airport project);
• Amy McLane, Talbert and Bright;
• Ken Atkins, Wake County Economic Development;
• Rick Barkes, Division of Aviation, NCDOT;
• David Thomas, Division of Aviation, NCDOT;
• Teresa Piner, Town of Wendell Planning Director.

The meeting continued with a public comment period that started at 7:30 p.m. with Mayor Harold Broadwell presiding. Present were Commissioners Carol Hinnant, Ronald Thompson, Bill Connolly, Buddy Scarboro and Sid Baynes, Manager David Bone, Police Chief Joe Privette, Finance Director Butch Kay, Planning Director Teresa Piner, Planner Stacy Griffin and Town Clerk Jonnie Driver. Also present were Mayor Frank Eagles of Rolesville, Mayor Bob Matheney of Zebulon, Assistant County Manager Joe Durham, Wendell Chamber of Commerce President Mike Greene, Wendell Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Ula Mae Life and Wake County Economic Development Director Ken Atkins. The Commissioners were in attendance and seated in the audience.

Mayor Harold Broadwell welcomed the public and guests.

Mayor Broadwell stated that purpose of the meeting was to have the public’s input into the Airport Feasibility Study in order to be better able to make a decision of whether to proceed with the possibility of an airport in Wendell.

Planning Director Teresa Piner updated the public on the history of the project.

Mr. Ken Atkins, Wake County Economic Development Director, stated that a General Aviation Airport has significant economic impact and encouraged Wendell to move forward with the project.

Jennifer Hinton – 1432 Marshburn Road, Wendell – stated that she owned 66 acres of land where the airport is being proposed and that her family owns a total of 140 acres. She further stated that she was in favor of the General Aviation Airport, especially since her father, the late Mr. Jimmy Buchanan, had a small airport there in the past. She added that her family was also in support of the General Aviation Airport in Wendell. Mrs. Hinton further stated that she would like for all the people that were opposed to the airport to consider the new jobs, growth and tax revenue in their decision.

Mr. McQueen Campbell, currently of Raleigh and formerly of Elizabethtown, stated that he has been a pilot for twenty years. He stated that Elizabethtown has had an airport for twenty years and that it has served the town well. He stated that the noise from these small planes is not as big of a nuisance as one would think. Mr. Campbell closed his statement by saying, “I plan to make the Wendell Airport home if the town proceeds with the project.”

Wendell Chamber of Commerce Director Ula Mae Life stated that the Chamber Board of Directors and she supported the General Aviation Airport project. She said the Chamber Board of Directors voted unanimously to support the project.

Chamber President Mike Greene stated that Ms. Life spoke for the Wendell Chamber of Commerce, and he is speaking as Director of Planning and Coordination for Kioti Tractor. Mr. Greene stated that Kioti Tractor and he are in favor of the airport. He stated that Kioti Tractor’s operations in North America are fairly new and that a General Aviation Airport would help promote the business environment in the area. Mr. Greene stated that a General Aviation Airport would also encourage Kioti Tractor’s suppliers and partners to locate in the area, which would help reduce costs for the business. Mr. Greene closed his comments stating that from and operation and economic standpoint, Kioti Tractor supports the General Aviation Airport.

Bruce Lynch, resident and businessman in Wendell, stated that one of the most important things to a county is transportation and that Eastern Wake County would benefit from the General Aviation Airport. He stated that he was strongly in favor of the project.

Mr. Charlie Kramer – 183 Lu Tom Lane, Wendell – read an article from WRAL about Johnston County offering incentives for airplanes at its General Aviation Airport. He stated, “I have two questions for the consultants who did the study:
1. Do we need another airport? Johnston County is on Highway 70 and not that far away.
2. If Marshburn Road residents refuse to sell the property will Wake County do eminent domain to take the property?”

Mr. Steve Stroud, of Raleigh, stated that he had served in real estate for 42 years and had been a pilot for 30 years. He stated that transportation infrastructure, as Mr. Lynch discussed earlier, is an important tool. He said aviation is the new infrastructure to go forward with. Mr. Stroud further stated, “I work with companies that are interested in coming to North Carolina and Wake County. I would encourage you to consider the
future of Eastern Wake County and move forward with the General Aviation Airport Project.”

Mr. Hugh Caflin – 7608 Marshburn Road, Wendell – stated that his family had owned a farm for four generations and that if Wake County did not enforce eminent domain, they were not going to sell the property. “My family is not in favor of the General Aviation Airport.”

Mr. Paul White, owner of Universal Chevrolet in Wendell, stated that a General Aviation Airport would be a plus for Eastern Wake County and that he had been involved with Wake County on the project for several years. He stated that he thinks the town should look at what an airport could do for us in the next 20-30 years. Mr. White stated that he thinks industry will look at transportation before locating in any area, and he thinks a General Aviation Airport would be a great asset to this area. “I am in favor of the General Aviation Airport.”

Mr. Curt Phipps – Liles Dean Road, Wendell – stated that he was not opposed to the airport but to the locations proposed for the airport. He stated that there is not enough room between Wendell and Zebulon for an airport. He added that the logical approach for locating an airport would be look at Nash County, where there is more undeveloped land.

Mr. Jim Ledford stated that noise would be a problem and a distraction to living in Wendell. He said he realizes the need for an airport but does not want to see it impact Wendell. He stated that he would like to see an airport location moved further east where it would not impact so many people. “I am not in favor of the General Aviation Airport.”

Bruce Vaughan, Lizard Lick Road, stated that the location was not going to benefit the town. “I am not in favor of the General Aviation Airport, and no one should be in favor of eminent domain.”

Ann Stewart – 505 S. Hollybrook Road – stated the flight plan is to close to schools. She stated that she doesn’t object to an airport, just that it is too close to populated areas.

Mr. Bill Ammons stated that he was opposed to the General Aviation Airport. He stated that his family has no desire to sell or give away land. Mr. Ammons stated that it has been said that if the land is taken, it would be developed commercially; but, the location would not leave much room between Wendell and the airport for commercial development. He stated that the flight plan goes over schools, and the only shopping center in Wendell. Mr. Ammons said that the airport will only serve a small number of people in the area, and most people are against it. He added that he has not seen the areas with regional airports bursting with industry. “Where are the voices of other Wake County communities if this is such a good idea?” “I am not in favor of the General Aviation Airport.”

Nick Thornsbury, of Wendell, stated that he would like for the consultants who completed the feasibility study to address why the Johnston County Airport was not doing well. He said he would also like to know if the town if going to keep the zoning tighter to support land owners in Wendell.

Linda Conoley – 525 Old Zebulon Road, Wendell – stated she was concerned about the priorities of the town. She said that the town has done nothing to improve the infrastructure of roads. She said we need a better route in and out of town and off Wendell Boulevard. “I am concerned more about local transportation than the airport. I am not against the airport, just concerned.”

Mr. Ervin Privette – 621 Timber Drive, Wendell – stated he had been a pilot for 30 years. Noise and danger are a concern for Mr. Privette. Also, he would like to know where all the industry is going if an airport is built. Mr. Privette stated that on the south side of the proposed airport site is the reservoir, and Johnston County is on the other side. He asked, “Where would there be any room for industry?” “I am against the General Aviation Airport.”

Mayor Harold Broadwell asked if anyone else would like to speak concerning the General Aviation Airport, and no one else wished to be heard. Mayor Broadwell asked Mr. Steve Bright of the consulting firm of Talbert and Bright (Wake County’s consulting firm on this project) if he would come forward and address the questions that were asked earlier by Mr. Charlie Kramer.

In response to Mr. Charlie Kramer’s questions, Mr. Steve Bright stated that he was not familiar with the Johnston County tax rebate program. However, he stated that the price per gallon of gas for airplanes is $6.00, and the planes hold 600-1000 gallons of fuel. There would be an incentive for Johnston County to have a rebate program, because the county would want to get all the planes it could. Mr. Bright further stated that an airport is a great opportunity for additional property taxes for the community. Taxes on one jet are equal to taxes on 60-70 homes, and there are no services that have to be provided. The economic impact from Johnston County businesses is $33 million annually, and Sanford-Lee is $280 million annually.

Mayor Harold Broadwell stated that the consideration of support for the General Aviation Airport in Eastern Wake County would be on the agenda for April 14, 2008 Town Board Meeting.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:45 p.m.

________________________
Jonnie S. Driver, Town Clerk

________________________
J. Harold Broadwell, II, Mayor

Town of Wendell Board of Commissioners Retreat

March 19, 2008

NC League of Municipalities

Albert Coates Government Center, Raleigh

The Wendell Town Board of Commissioners held a retreat at the NC League of Municipalities Albert Coates Government Center in Raleigh on Wednesday, March 19, 2008 at 9:00 a.m. Mayor Pro Tem Bill Connolly opened the retreat and Mayor Harold Broadwell arrived soon thereafter. Also present were Commissioners Carol Hinnant, Ronald Thompson, Buddy Scarboro and Sid Baynes, Manager David Bone, Police Chief Joe Privette, Finance Director Butch Kay, Planning Director Teresa Piner, and Town Clerk Jonnie Driver.

Item 1 – Citizens Board Selection Process
Town Manager David Bone stated that the board had discussed with Interim Manager Wayne Deal a process for selection of advisory board members.
The following process was suggested by Mr. Deal:
1. Continue the current process of having individuals express interest in serving on boards.
2. Prior to appointments:
(a) Staff to provide list to board of those citizens who want to serve.
(b) Staff to provide information to board on current board members with information such as a map showing address of members of the board being considered.
(c) At work session, the board should discuss upcoming appointment and type of individuals needed to fill those positions.
3. At Board Meeting:
(a) Each board member nominates individuals to fill the vacant seats.
(b) Board votes on individual to fill the vacancies.
No action was ever taken on these suggestions.
For discussion purposes, the following procedures were offered by Town Manager David Bone as a starting point for the establishment of a citizen advisory board selection process;
1. The town clerk advertises opportunities for service at the beginning of each year or as necessary.
2. Interested parties fill out applications for nomination and return them to the town clerk.
3. The town clerk enters all application into a tracking table, which list the names of citizens and the boards for which they wish to apply. This document is an internal document used by the clerk’s staff for tracking purposes.
4. A letter is sent to applicants acknowledging receipt and thanking them for their application.
5. The town clerk fills-out the advisory board vacancies chart, which lists boards with opening and the schedule for consideration of appointment by the council. This chart is an internal document used by the clerk’s staff for tracking purposes.
6. Copies of application are filed in the folder of each board for which each person applied.
7. Nominations for a vacancy will be made at a Board of Commissioners Work Session
8. Applicants who are nominated will receive notification acknowledging their nomination. and noting an approximate schedule of appointments by the Board of Commissioners.
9. If the applicant is appoint, a letter is mailed to their residence.
10. For those applicants not chose, a letter is sent to them informing them that they were not chosen but that their application will remain on file for two years from the date of application unless they request that their application be removed from consideration.

It was suggested to add the following item to the application:
• Have you taken the opportunity to attend any previous Board meeting prior to the notice of this vacancy? No Yes

Commissioner Hinnant stated that it would be a good idea to discuss the appointments at the work session and the type of individuals that would be needed to fill those positions.

Commissioner Sid Baynes stated that he would like to see the advisory boards as part of the selection process.

Manager Bone suggested an additional alternative could be to have a committee to review the applications.
Commissioner Hinnant stated the committee was a good idea. The application process is not the problem. The problem is the selection process.

Commissioner Buddy Scarboro suggested the applicants have the opportunity to talk to the board and introduce themselves.

Commissioner Connolly made a suggestion to nominate at the work session and have discussion and vote at the regular session.

The Board of Commissioners directed the clerk to advertise for the vacancies and accept application until April 15, 2008. The applications are to be considered for nominations at the April 28, 2008 Work Session, and appointments are to be considered at the May 12, 2008 Board Meeting.

Item 2 – Board Rules of Procedure / Public Comment Rules

Mayor Harold Broadwell stated that the board needed to decide if they wanted to move from the Roberts’ Rule of Order to a more simple set of rules. The consensus was to move from Robert’s Rules of Order.

Manager David Bone stated that a draft copy of Town of Wendell Board of Commissioners Rules of procedure is in the background material for the retreat. Mr Bone stated that the draft document was created based on the Lee County Board of Commissioners Rules and Procedure and the Town of Farmville Rules of Procedure.

Mayor Harold Broadwell stated that he would like to have a section of definitions at the beginning.

Attorney Jim Cauley stated that Rule #1 thru Rule #8 are based on NC General Statutes, and the rules from Rule #14 forward are the true rules available for debate and revision.

Commissioner Bill Connolly stated that the reference to “holidays” in Rule #5, Regular Meetings, be changed to, “When the meeting is on a holiday, that the board will determine when the meeting will be”.

Manager David Bone asked the board how they felt about eliminating Rule #6 and having two regular board meetings per month instead of having a regular meeting and a work session. Making this change would allow the board to take action at both meetings without having to call a Special Called Meeting to take action.

Commissioner Bill Connolly stated he would prefer a work session, and he was willing to try it for six months.

Mayor Broadwell stated he would prefer two regular meetings rather that one regular meeting and one work session format.

The consensus of the board was two regular meetings.

Attorney Jim Cauley stated that he had some issues with being able to attend the second meeting, but if the board agreed, he could send one his associates in his stead. It was agreed for Attorney Jim Cauley and Town Manager David Bone to discuss options for having legal representation at the second board meeting.

Manager Bone stated that under Rule# 8, “Broadcasting and Recording of Meetings”, he had been in communication with Knightdale Manager Gary McConkey concerning the cost of the equipment required for broadcasting Wendell Board of Commissioner meetings. Mr. McConkey stated that there will be some grant money available to help with those costs. Commissioners stated that they would like Manager McConkey to
attend a Wendell Board of Commissioners meeting to talk to the board about the cost of broadcasting Wendell meetings.

Attorney Cauley stated that Rule #13, “Order of Business”, would require an ordinance change.

The board suggested under Rule #18, “Action by the Board”, to remove the need for a second to a motion.

Attorney Cauley stated that he preferred having a second to a motion, but he said he would defer to the board’s wishes.

The board requested that under Rule #22, “Debate”, Item #2 be deleted.

There were several other suggestions made by the commissioners for changes on the draft copy, and Manager Bone stated he would make those changes and submit a revised draft for the board to consider at a later date.

Item 3 – Review of Comprehensive Plan / Discussion about “Vision” for Wendell.

Mr. John Cock of the Lawrence Group reviewed the process taken in 2006 and 2007 in preparing the Comprehensive Plan.

Concerning a “vision” for Wendell, Mr. Cock stated that there were ten statements of general principles taken from the public input into the Comprehensive Plan that could be incorporated into a vision statement.
They are as follows:
1. Preserve the small town fill and historic character.
2. Increase downtown and in town retail.
3. Protect the downtown core.
4. Diversity and increased tax base.
5. Improve transportation.
6. Promote Wendell’s attractiveness.
7. Provide a range of housing opportunities.
8. Balance development rights.
9. Increase community amenities.
10. Ensure strategic location of public services.

Commissioner Hinnant stated that these ten things outline the vision for Wendell, but the “vision” needs to be reduced to a shorter statement.

Mayor Broadwell stated that the town needs a focal point. People need a place to meet and socialize. We need to grow from downtown.

Commissioner Baynes stated that the ten points needed to be condensed into one statement for the vision of Wendell.

The board recommended that the staff and the Lawrence Group work together to put the ten items into a vision statement and bring it back to the board.

Item 4 – Panel Discussion about Growth in Other Communities.

Diane Khin, Planning Director of Apex, spoke to the board concerning the growth issues that Apex has experienced. Mrs. Khin stated she was proud of their downtown. The town has had some issues with people trying to tear down buildings, but their downtown is thriving. Also, Ms. Khin stated that Apex’s downtown businesses have subsidized water and sewer fees to help draw businesses to the area. She stated that the town also has a downtown business committee. She stated that the town has a farmers market that the downtown businesses were responsible for starting without any assistance from the town.

Mr. Mitch Silver, Planning Director of the City of Raleigh, stated that Raleigh has promoted its downtown area by focusing on the experience one gets by living there. He stated that we city planners and officials need to learn about downtown development from developers like those who built North Hills. He also stated that housing choices and transportation were very important for downtown development. Mr. Silver also addressed issues with a large subdivision like Wakefield. He stated some of the problems are transportation, schools not being “neighborhood schools” as homeowners thought, not having as much mixed-use development as they should, and not having sidewalks on both sides of the street. Mr. Silver stated that with residential development, towns need to focus more on pedestrian corridors and less on thoroughfares. He stated that people want to walk.

Item 5 – Sustainable Development.

Planning Director Teresa Piner stated that several years ago, Wendell implemented a water and sewer policy. At the time, the majority of houses in Wendell were less than 1400 square feet. The first policy encouraged the building of houses containing at least 1400 square feet under roof (Type I). A later amendment to that policy encouraged homes to be built with 1400 heated square feet. Mrs. Piner further stated the majority of homes built in Wendell today are Type II (1400 to 1799 square feet) and Type III (over 1800 square feet). She asked the board, “Is it time to amend the policy and procedures in place? Should things other than the square footage of a residence be considered?”

A copy of “Sample Elements” considered in other municipal water allocation policies was given to the board for consideration.

Attorney Jim Cauley stated that the town was staying in line with other towns in their water and sewer allocation policies, but “You get what you require.”

Item 6 - Open Space Requirements

This item concerns two issues:
• Concern about homeowners associations – will maintenance of common areas by homeowners associations create a maintenance headache down the road, and if so, what can we do about it?
• Concern about the “payment in lieu” option.

Attorney Jim Cauley said if the question was whether the town could impose obligations on the homeowners association, then the answer is “yes”. However, he stated that there are some side issues that come up when obligations are placed on homeowners associations:
1. What degree of maintenance is required? When is there non-compliance?
2. What are the requirements? They must be included in the homeowners association document.

Commissioner Hinnant asked about the definition of “open space”. She stated that open space needs to be usable land. She further stated that small subdivisions with multiple phases and no open space should not be allowed.

Mayor Broadwell stated that Mr. Silver previously stated that the City of Raleigh had three types of open space: active, passive and environmental. He asked if Wendell has those three types.

Commissioner Hinnant stated that the town did not have to accept a piece of property for open space, but she felt that we need to change the formula for “in lieu of’ open space requirements.

The board asked for staff to rewrite Section “D” in the open space policy and look at other jurisdictions as to how they handle this issue.

Attorney Cauley stated if you revisit the dollar amount required for the “in lieu of” option, the town should make the computation for such a payment easily understandable and recognizable.

Commissioner Hinnant asked if the town could create a minimum “in lieu of” payment (such as $25,000).

Attorney Cauley stated he was not sure about that.

Item 7 – Legislative Update

Manager Bone stated that the board may want to consider a request for a local bill to allow the recognition of a two mile extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) for the Town of Wendell. Acquiring the authority to recognize the two miles of ETJ would assist the town in gaining land use control between the contiguous corporate limits and satellite annexations such as Wendell Falls. Manager Bone stated that the town could request a
specific boundary for the ETJ extension (instead of a full two miles in all direction), and such a request could be less controversial.

Attorney Cauley suggested drawing out the map as to what is desired.

Manager Bone also discussed the Archer Lodge incorporation movement and how that could affect the future growth of Wendell towards the south into Johnston County. The board stated that it did not want to take a position on this matter.

Mayor Broadwell stated there was also an issue of school board elections, and the town needed to send a letter in opposition to protect our area. This item was to be placed on the agenda for the next work session.

Commissioner Hinnant stated that we also need to consider the possibility of some impact fees. She stated that most other towns are already charging those. It was discussed that only non-controversial bills can be discussed in the short session of the NC Legislature, which means that the impact fee issue is not something that can be brought forward in the 2008 legislative session.

Commissioner Connolly stated the Wake County Legislative Delegation has already unanimously asked for impact fees, but that they have received opposition in the past when the issue was discussed by the whole Legislature.

Item 8 – SUP Process / Quasi-Judicial Process / Standard (information discussed prior to meeting and at work session)

Attorney Jim Cauley stated the Special Use/Quasi-Judicial Process is different from the legislative decisions that the board of commissioners often make. He stated that there should be no lobbying concerning these matters, and the decision should be based on evidence heard only at the hearing.

Attorney Cauley further stated that he had three recommendations:
1. Discontinue the practice of discussing permits at the work session.
2. Revise Code 154.46 to be consistent with State Law.
3. Adopt a judicial demeanor. (Don’t let people outside the meeting influence the process.)

Commissioner Hinnant said, if possible, the town needs to put a time limit on when a SUP can be brought back to the board for action. She also stated that the town needs to define “substantial” in regards to the level of change that must be met before a SUP application is re-heard.

Attorney Cauley said that the town can continue to try to define “substantial”.

Item 9 – Promoting a thriving downtown area.

Planning Director Teresa Piner stated that staff had been working with engineers of McKim and Creed to survey and assess the need and cost of sidewalk improvements in the downtown area.

The following is a summary of the proposed project:
1. Project Description: The Project includes improvements to the sidewalk, street pavements, lighting, and electrical along Main Street from Wendell Boulevard to Second Street and some of the cross streets in between.
2. Engineering and Construction Cost Estimates:
Construction Cost - $240,000
Engineering Services (Per Proposal)
Detailed Design Phase -$37,000
Informal Bid and Award - $4,700
Construction Administration - $18,000
Construction Observation (20hrs/week) - $23,500.00
Record Drawings - $5,200
Total Estimated Project Cost (excludes Town’s administrative cost) - $328,400
3. Original Budget for Project Cost - $200,000
4. Priority and Planning Considerations
a. Phase the project construction to spread out cost
b. Be consistent with approved Comprehensive Plan (Lawrence Group
c. Church across from Hedrick looking at expansion options
d. New building at Hedrick Property
e. 3rd Street Connection to Wendell Falls
5. Funding Options:
a. Grants
i. USDA Rural Business Enterprise Grants (RBEG)
ii. NCDOT Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)
Third Street
b. Low-Interest Loans
c. Fund Balance
6. Main Street Enhancement Options
a. Restructure entrance at Wendell Boulevard End
b. Decorative Landscaping and Lighting
c. Reserve Angle Parking (possible trial run before implementation)

• The meeting was adjourned at 4:45 p.m.

_______________________________
Jonnie S. Driver, Town Clerk

_______________________________
J. Harold Broadwell, Mayor

ORDINANCE N0 (2007) - 287

AN ORDINANCE TO ESTABLISH STAGE 1 MANDATORY WATER CONSERVATION RESTRICTIONS AND RULES AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATION OF SAID RESTRICITONS AND RULES.

Whereas, current conditions are causing excessive and severe demand on the City’s water supply reservoirs, and

Whereas, every day mandatory water conservation restrictions and voluntary water use measures and best management practices have not resulted in sufficient reduction of the average day customer water demand from City of Raleigh public water supply, and

Whereas, it is necessary to implement additional mandatory water use restriction and rules to protect the public health, safety, and welfare through the provision of adequate water for drinking, sanitation, and fire protection services;

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA THAT:

Stage 1 mandatory water conservation restrictions and rules are in effect for the City of Raleigh’s water customers as follows:

Section 1

OUTDOOR WATER USES:

Irrigation water must be applied slowly to achieve deep penetration and prevent water run-off. Direct watering of impervious surfaces such as streets, parking lots, driveways and sidewalks is prohibited.

a) Automatic spray irrigation and Non-Automatic spray irrigation systems:
Watering by spray irrigation systems shall be permitted between MIDNIGHT and 10:00 AM.
Properties with ODD numbered addresses may water lawns and landscapes only on TUESDAYS.
Properties with EVEN numbered addresses may water only on WEDNESDAYS.

b) City certified Automatic spray irrigation systems:
Watering by spray irrigation systems shall be permitted between MIDNIGHT and 10:00 AM.
Properties with ODD numbered addresses may water lawns and landscapes on TUESDAYS and SATURDAYS.
Properties with EVEN numbered addresses may water on WEDNESDAYS and SUNDAYS.

c) Hose-end sprinkler:
Watering by hose-end sprinklers shall be permitted between 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM and also between 6:00 PM and 10 PM.
Properties with ODD numbered addresses may water lawns and landscapes only on TUESDAYS.
Properties with EVEN numbered addresses may water only on WEDNESDAYS.

d) Hand held hose watering devices:
Watering by hand held hose shall be permitted between 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM and also between 6:00 PM and 10 PM.
Properties with ODD numbered addresses may water lawns and landscapes on TUESDAYS and SATURDAYS.
Properties with EVEN numbered addresses may water on WEDNESDAYS and SUNDAYS.

e) Low Volume Drip Irrigation
Watering by low volume drip irrigation is permitted at any time.

EXEMPTIONS to irrigation requirements:

The watering restrictions shall not apply to:

1) Properties using non-potable/reuse water and non public water supply system of the City for landscape irrigation.

2) Watering of commercial containerized plants and commercial plant stock in trade maintained for resale.

3) Visually supervised operation of watering systems for short periods of time to check system condition.

4) Property owners may obtain a 45 day New Landscape Establishment Permit from the Public Utilities

Department for the purpose of establishing new plantings. New plantings, for the purpose of this permit, are defined as the installation of new sod to the entire yard, whole yard first seeding, or large commercial plantings. The permit will be applicable during the installation and for 45 days from substantial completion of the installation. Irrigation will be permitted during the hours 5:00 AM to 10:00 AM.

f) The water level in any swimming or wading pool may be supplemented to provide for proper operation and sanitary pool conditions.

g) No water may be added to any decorative ponds or fountains except for what is necessary to maintain aquatic life. EXCEPTION: Decorative ponds or fountains that do not have any drains or outlets that allow water to enter any storm drain or surface water body and have permanent weather resistant signage that meets the requirements of the City’s Bulk Reclaimed Water Distribution Permit may use reclaimed (reuse) water.

h) Residents are prohibited from vehicle washing activities except on Saturdays and Sundays.

i) Residents are prohibited from washing areas such as sidewalks, patios, decks, driveways, parking lots, streets and exterior building surfaces except on Saturdays and Sundays. This restriction shall not apply to the washing of soiled areas for maintenance of public health and sanitary conditions. The commercial use of power washers is permitted.

j) Leaking water services or plumbing must be repaired within 24 hours of written notification by the Public Utilities Director.

INDOOR WATER USES:

a) Drinking water shall not be served in a public restaurant, except upon request.
b) Hotels/motels/bed and breakfast inns will ask guests spending more than one night to use their towels and bed linens more than once between laundering.
c) Commercial and industrial customers shall review their water uses and implement industry specific best management water conservation practices.

Section 2.

Violation of this ordinance may be punished by any of the means available to the City through the provisions of N.C.G.S 160A-175. The civil penalty amount for the first violation of this ordinance is $200.00, a second violation of this ordinance is $1,000.00 and a third violation shall result in interruption of water service to the offending customer. The City will issue written notification to the customer and occupant of intent to interrupt water service and twenty-four (24) hours later will interrupt water service unless the violation has ceased. Each day shall constitute a separate violation, If water service has been interrupted due to repeat violation of this ordinance, service will not be re-instated until the Public Utilities Director has determined that the risk to the City water supply has been alleviated or the Public Utilities Director is otherwise assured of compliance.

Section 3.

All laws and clauses of laws in conflict herewith are hereby repealed to the extent of such conflict.

Section 4.

This ordinance is effective upon adoption.

Adopted: September 5, 2007
Effective: September 5, 2007
Distribution: All Department Heads

Board of Commissioners Friday Update

April 11, 2008

ITEM 1. APRIL 14^TH AGENDA

· Mercury Development has asked to delay the second reading of its PUD document. NCDOT has requested an analysis of the traffic impact of the proposed changes prior to getting the final approval of the changes. This analysis should be completed fairly quickly.

ITEM 2. DROUGHT UPDATE

According to Raleigh Public Utilities Director Dale Crisp, the Falls Lake level as of 8 A.M. Tuesday, April 8^th was 252.51 feet MSL, which is 1.01 feet ABOVE the level of the lake when the water supply pool is 100% full (251.5 feet MSL). The lake level has now fully recovered due to the rain events that occurred over the past few weeks and now is considered to be in “flood storage mode” by the Corps of Engineers.

The water supply days projection using the current 30 day pumpage average indicates we have 386 days of water supply pool currently in storage at Falls Lake (assumes worst case scenario of no rain during this period). Using the predicted total water supply days remaining then projects to April 29, 2009 (see attached), which is 97 additional days beyond the projection date from last week’s report.

Even with the significant rain events over the past few weeks, according to the NWS rain gauge at RDU Airport, the Triangle area (as of April 8^th) is still approximately 1 inch below normal rainfall in 2008. This same rain gauge ended 2007 with a deficit of 7.2 inches of below normal rainfall, for a current total deficit of 8.2 inches since January 1, 2007.

Earlier during the drought, estimates were published that it would take more than 2 feet of rainfall to refill the water supply reservoirs most severely impacted by the exceptional drought, such as Falls Lake. This prediction has proven to be incorrect since the total amount of rainfall that occurred from when Falls Lake level was at its lowest till when it refilled as measured at the RDU NWS rain gauge was only 12 inches.

Rainfall is predicted for this weekend, and some forecasts indicate it could be a significant event (i.e. more than one inch). The long term update from the National Weather Service (NWS) and NC Climatology Office now indicates that the La Nina effect driving the drought conditions experienced in N.C. since August, 2007 has weakened and there is now an equal chance for normal rainfall to continue during the period of April through September, 2008.

The Raleigh City Council, at its regular meeting on March 18, 200,8 approved the delegation of authority to the City Manager to return Raleigh’s water conservation status from its current Stage 2 Water Use Restrictions back to the Amended Stage 1 Water Use Restrictions when the water supply pool storage remaining in Falls Lake reached 90% or greater. Also, when Falls Lake level reached 251.5 feet MSL and the water supply pool is 100%, the water conservation status would return to Stage 1 Water Use Restrictions.

On Saturday, April 5^th both the 90% and 251.5 feet MSL (100%) milestones were reached, due to the rain events that occurred last week and continued on Saturday. Therefore on April 7^th, City Manager Russell Allen changed the City’s water conservation status back to the Stage 1 water use restrictions (ordinance copy attached).

With Falls Lake completely refilling, Raleigh Public Utilities Director Dale Crisp will cease his weekly updates of the drought situation, which he sent to the town managers in the merger communities.

The NC Drought Advisory Council has reduced Wake County from the “Exceptional Drought” category to the “Severe Drought” category. Much of the coastal plain and furthermost western parts of North Carolina have been downgraded to “Moderate Drought” or “Abnormally Dry”, but most of the Piedmont remains in the “Severe Drought” category. Several counties in the Charlotte area remain in the “Exceptional Drought” category. Click here to view the NC Drought Advisory map.

ITEM 3. POSSIBLE SAFETY PROJECT AT THE INTERSECTION OF 97 AND 64 BUSINESS

Planning Director Teresa Piner reports that she has spoken with a DOT staff member, who has indicated that DOT is actively seeking an alternate alignment and funding sources for the intersection at 97 and 64 Business. DOT is currently working with Hephzibah Baptist Church to look at its concerns over ingress and egress. Due to the intersection being a safety concern and depending on the funding amount needed, this project (if the amount remains low enough) could be funded through Spot Safety Funds. Once an area is determined to be a safety issue, spot safety funds can be allocated, usually with a shorter waiting period than DOT’s Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) list. However, if the cost exceeds the funding cap of a spot safety project, it may be necessary to seek other funding sources or be placed on the TIP list for future funding.

ITEM 4. “SUPERCENTER” RECYCLING SITE

Staff members of Wendell and surrounding communities are working with Wake County staff to help identify potential sites for a Wake County Convenience Center that would offer increased services (as compared with the existing Wake County Convenience Center just east of Wendell).

ITEM 5. OTHER:

A. Please keep Public Works Supervisor Kenny Goad in your thoughts – he has been out due to a probable kidney stone.

B. Former Interim Manager Wayne Deal stopped by for a visit on Friday. Please keep him in your thoughts, as well. Wayne has been diagnosed with prostate cancer.

C. The section of Martin Pond Road around Richardson Road will be closed beginning the week of April 14^th and will be closed for about 120 days, due to construction for Wendell Falls.

ITEM 6. UPCOMING EVENTS @ WENDELL TOWN HALL:

DATE TIME EVENT

04/14 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting
04/21 7:00 p.m. Planning Board Meeting
04/22 10:00 a.m. Board of Commissioners Budget Work Session

04/28 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Committee Meeting

05/01 7:00 p.m. Public Meeting to Receive Input about Desired Traits and Skills for a New Police Chief

05/05 6:00 p.m. UDO Meeting

05/01 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting to Give Input about Desired Traits and Skills for a New Police Chief

05/12 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting (including presentation of the

Manager’s FY 2008-09 Proposed Budget)

05/14 1:00 p.m. Wendell Chamber Golf Tournament @ Wendell Country Club

05/19 7:00 p.m. Planning Board Meeting
05/26 Memorial Day – Town offices closed

05/27 7:00 p.m. (RE-SCHEDULED DUE TO HOLIDAY)Board of Commissioners Committee Meeting (including the public hearing on the budget)