Wendell News Outlet
Informational News of interest for the citizens in and around Wendell, North Carolina. Postings on this site are the property of Glenn Harris and cannot be copied without express written permission. Archives are listed at the bottom of the home page.Thursday, October 30, 2008
WakeUp Wake County Update
October 30
Vote EARLY through Nov 1
If you haven't yet VOTED, you can still VOTE EARLY through 5 pm on Sat. Nov. 1st at certain locations. After that, you can vote Tuesday, Nov. 4, 6:30 am - 7:30 pm. Click here for details. When voting, remember to look at candidates' views on growth issues!
Elections Matter for Growth -
opinion column published on NewRaleigh website
Most election news is focused at the national level this year. However, many of the quality of life issues that affect us daily, like schools, transportation and drinking water, are decided at the local and state level. This election, voters should look for candidates who will best plan for growth in our communities.
Given the current economic slowdown, do we in the Triangle still need to be concerned about growing population and development that comes with it? According to a study published October 5th in the New York Times, Raleigh is one of the few places in the U.S. that still has a growing economy, or at least a stronger economy than most parts of the country. This good fortune means people will continue to come to the Triangle in search of jobs and good schools.
While we may need to adjust population growth projections, elected officials still must figure out how to plan and pay for the many people who will move here. Our increasingly urban community will best be served by elected officials who have the wisdom to take the long-term view in growth management planning.
This election, voters need to scrutinize candidates with a growth lens at the state and local levels -- from North Carolina governor to Wake Board of Commissioners. Voters should challenge candidates about their plans for paying for schools, ensuring long-term water supply, and building transit. Voters should look at whose funding their campaigns, to ensure special interests are not working to the detriment of quality, sustainable growth.
Here's what voters should be asking candidates:
How will you propose paying for schools? Property taxes aren't keeping up with the growing need for more schools and a 21st century K-12 education. Wake County already spends $30,000 less annually than the national average per classroom, and now some school programs can't be funded because there's simply not enough money. Should everyone's property taxes increase, or should new development pay a greater share of the additional costs?
Do you support stronger water conservation and protection measures to keep clean drinking water flowing? Growing population poses two challenges: we'll need to conserve more water to serve more people, and we need to ensure water is clean and safe. The fact is we have limited supplies of fresh water, so we'll need to use water wisely. Increased development means more stormwater runoff, and that means pollution in Falls Lake, Jordan Lake and the future Little River Reservoir. We must protect these assets with proper planning and stormwater controls.
Will you work to plan and fund a regional transit system for the Triangle? If we fail to increase transportation choices that we'll need when our population doubles in two decades, our economy, environment and quality of life will suffer with worse traffic. A plan for a regional system of expanded bus service, rail and circulators has been proposed, and we should support this plan. Higher gas prices have increased demand for transit, but to remain competitive, employers will need better options to get employees to work. The state and local government should act now to support transit.
Are you accepting campaign funds from the realtor and homebuilder PACs? These powerful special interests heavily influence policy decisions at the local and state levels. The NC Association of Realtors (NCAR) is the largest contributor to state legislative races in North Carolina. NCAR has threatened legislators who support allowing counties to vote on a real estate transfer tax as a means to pay for schools, transportation or other growth needs.
Do you believe growth should pay its fair share of the costs of development? With a declining economy, our tax base will decrease. New sources of revenue - such as transfer fees on real estate transactions and increased impact fees on new development - are essential for paying the costs of new infrastructure needed for growth. Those that benefit financially from development itself currently do not pay their fair share of costs for the schools, roads, parks and water supply needed for that growth. Existing taxpayers continue to subsidize sprawl.
If we fail to ask the hard questions of our political candidates, we will end up with short-sighted growth plans and an eroding quality of life - meaning longer commute times, more air pollution, kids in school trailers and worse water quality. Realtor and homebuilder PACs and lobbies have often controlled growth planning and policies, and this won't change unless the voters decide to elect leaders with a new vision for the 21st century.
By Karen Rindge, chair of WakeUP Wake County, a non-partisan, citizens' non-profit supporting good growth solutions for Wake County and the Triangle region.
SIGN TRANSIT PETITION of Capital Area Friends of Transit!
A new community alliance supporting regional transit has formed, called the Capital Area Friends of Transit. YOU can be a friend of transit too! Sign the on-line petition by clicking here. The Capital Area Friends of Transit includes many community organizations (with interests ranging from business, affordable housing, the environment, to persons with disabilties) and civic leaders who recognize that the Triangle will need expanded, effective transit to move our growing population efficiently to work, home and play. Building on the momentum at our public transit forum, WakeUP has brought many organizations together in support of the recommendations of the Special Transit Advisory Committee (STAC). The high price of gas means transportation is only going to get more expensive, and the time is right to move forward. Local elected officials will be considering the STAC recommendations, and the NC General Assembly will take up transit legislation in 2009. So please sign the petition TODAY. Forward this email to a friend and ask them to add their name in support.
Thank you!!!
Vote EARLY through Nov 1
If you haven't yet VOTED, you can still VOTE EARLY through 5 pm on Sat. Nov. 1st at certain locations. After that, you can vote Tuesday, Nov. 4, 6:30 am - 7:30 pm. Click here for details. When voting, remember to look at candidates' views on growth issues!
Elections Matter for Growth -
opinion column published on NewRaleigh website
Most election news is focused at the national level this year. However, many of the quality of life issues that affect us daily, like schools, transportation and drinking water, are decided at the local and state level. This election, voters should look for candidates who will best plan for growth in our communities.
Given the current economic slowdown, do we in the Triangle still need to be concerned about growing population and development that comes with it? According to a study published October 5th in the New York Times, Raleigh is one of the few places in the U.S. that still has a growing economy, or at least a stronger economy than most parts of the country. This good fortune means people will continue to come to the Triangle in search of jobs and good schools.
While we may need to adjust population growth projections, elected officials still must figure out how to plan and pay for the many people who will move here. Our increasingly urban community will best be served by elected officials who have the wisdom to take the long-term view in growth management planning.
This election, voters need to scrutinize candidates with a growth lens at the state and local levels -- from North Carolina governor to Wake Board of Commissioners. Voters should challenge candidates about their plans for paying for schools, ensuring long-term water supply, and building transit. Voters should look at whose funding their campaigns, to ensure special interests are not working to the detriment of quality, sustainable growth.
Here's what voters should be asking candidates:
How will you propose paying for schools? Property taxes aren't keeping up with the growing need for more schools and a 21st century K-12 education. Wake County already spends $30,000 less annually than the national average per classroom, and now some school programs can't be funded because there's simply not enough money. Should everyone's property taxes increase, or should new development pay a greater share of the additional costs?
Do you support stronger water conservation and protection measures to keep clean drinking water flowing? Growing population poses two challenges: we'll need to conserve more water to serve more people, and we need to ensure water is clean and safe. The fact is we have limited supplies of fresh water, so we'll need to use water wisely. Increased development means more stormwater runoff, and that means pollution in Falls Lake, Jordan Lake and the future Little River Reservoir. We must protect these assets with proper planning and stormwater controls.
Will you work to plan and fund a regional transit system for the Triangle? If we fail to increase transportation choices that we'll need when our population doubles in two decades, our economy, environment and quality of life will suffer with worse traffic. A plan for a regional system of expanded bus service, rail and circulators has been proposed, and we should support this plan. Higher gas prices have increased demand for transit, but to remain competitive, employers will need better options to get employees to work. The state and local government should act now to support transit.
Are you accepting campaign funds from the realtor and homebuilder PACs? These powerful special interests heavily influence policy decisions at the local and state levels. The NC Association of Realtors (NCAR) is the largest contributor to state legislative races in North Carolina. NCAR has threatened legislators who support allowing counties to vote on a real estate transfer tax as a means to pay for schools, transportation or other growth needs.
Do you believe growth should pay its fair share of the costs of development? With a declining economy, our tax base will decrease. New sources of revenue - such as transfer fees on real estate transactions and increased impact fees on new development - are essential for paying the costs of new infrastructure needed for growth. Those that benefit financially from development itself currently do not pay their fair share of costs for the schools, roads, parks and water supply needed for that growth. Existing taxpayers continue to subsidize sprawl.
If we fail to ask the hard questions of our political candidates, we will end up with short-sighted growth plans and an eroding quality of life - meaning longer commute times, more air pollution, kids in school trailers and worse water quality. Realtor and homebuilder PACs and lobbies have often controlled growth planning and policies, and this won't change unless the voters decide to elect leaders with a new vision for the 21st century.
By Karen Rindge, chair of WakeUP Wake County, a non-partisan, citizens' non-profit supporting good growth solutions for Wake County and the Triangle region.
SIGN TRANSIT PETITION of Capital Area Friends of Transit!
A new community alliance supporting regional transit has formed, called the Capital Area Friends of Transit. YOU can be a friend of transit too! Sign the on-line petition by clicking here. The Capital Area Friends of Transit includes many community organizations (with interests ranging from business, affordable housing, the environment, to persons with disabilties) and civic leaders who recognize that the Triangle will need expanded, effective transit to move our growing population efficiently to work, home and play. Building on the momentum at our public transit forum, WakeUP has brought many organizations together in support of the recommendations of the Special Transit Advisory Committee (STAC). The high price of gas means transportation is only going to get more expensive, and the time is right to move forward. Local elected officials will be considering the STAC recommendations, and the NC General Assembly will take up transit legislation in 2009. So please sign the petition TODAY. Forward this email to a friend and ask them to add their name in support.
Thank you!!!
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
MWW meeting Wednesday Oct. 29
MWW Meeting Agenda:
Introduce the new Upper Neuse Riverkeeper, Alissa Bierma
MWW presentation by Frank Brown
We will explore different solutions to working in the environments around our homes and community using green Best Management Practices (gardens, water storage, swales, plants) for rain water.
Simple solutions and great for the whole family to participate in!
Break for Refreshments
Followed by MWW Q&A
This is a time for you to ask questions or to talk about your experiences monitoring construction sites.
Wednesday, October 29 at 7PM.
Wake County Corporate Commons Building
4012 Carya Drive, Raleigh, NC 27610 (This is a business park off of Poole Road)
Google Map
For Immediate Release
October 27, 2008
Contacts:
Elaine M. Whitford
Director of Development and Communications
Neuse River Foundation
elainew@neuseriver.org
919-856-1180
Neuse River Foundation Hires Upper Neuse Riverkeeper, Alissa Bierma
RALEIGH, NC, October 27, 2008: The Neuse River Foundation has hired Alissa Bierma as Upper Neuse Riverkeeper®. Bierma will work with the Neuse River Foundation to enforce the Clean Water Act with the goal of protecting water quality, wildlife, recreation and public health in the Neuse River watershed. She will monitor water quality in the Upper Neuse River from the headwaters above Falls Lake to Goldsboro, investigate pollution sources, work with government agencies to eliminate pollution of the River, review NPDES permit applications and renewals, serve as an educational resource for all residents of the Neuse River watershed, and initiate environmental litigation when all other possible remedies have been exhausted.
Throughout her schooling and career, Bierma demonstrated a commitment to the protection of our natural resources. She recently received a Masters Degree of Energy and Environmental Policy from the University of Delaware which included studies in integrated water resources management, environmental planning and policy, regional watershed management, nonpoint source pollution, and watershed ecology. Before becoming the Upper Neuse Riverkeeper®, Bierma worked with the environmental policy team at The Conservancy of Southwest Florida.
Threats of explosive development in the Upper Neuse River watershed, particularly in Wake County, resulted in the Neuse River being listed as one of America's most endangered rivers in 2007. Board President Dave McCracken said, "Since 2001, the Upper Neuse Riverkeeper® program has served an important role in making headway in the fight to protect the Neuse River from poorly planned development. Alissa will continue the tradition of ensuring that the ‘voice' of the River is heard."
Founded in 1980, the mission of the Neuse River Foundation is to protect, restore and preserve the Neuse River Basin through education, advocacy and enforcement, in order to provide clean water for drinking, recreation and enjoyment to the communities it serves. The Neuse River Foundation supports the Upper Neuse Riverkeeper® based in Raleigh and the Lower Neuse Riverkeeper® based in New Bern.
-- END --
Introduce the new Upper Neuse Riverkeeper, Alissa Bierma
MWW presentation by Frank Brown
We will explore different solutions to working in the environments around our homes and community using green Best Management Practices (gardens, water storage, swales, plants) for rain water.
Simple solutions and great for the whole family to participate in!
Break for Refreshments
Followed by MWW Q&A
This is a time for you to ask questions or to talk about your experiences monitoring construction sites.
Wednesday, October 29 at 7PM.
Wake County Corporate Commons Building
4012 Carya Drive, Raleigh, NC 27610 (This is a business park off of Poole Road)
Google Map
For Immediate Release
October 27, 2008
Contacts:
Elaine M. Whitford
Director of Development and Communications
Neuse River Foundation
elainew@neuseriver.org
919-856-1180
Neuse River Foundation Hires Upper Neuse Riverkeeper, Alissa Bierma
RALEIGH, NC, October 27, 2008: The Neuse River Foundation has hired Alissa Bierma as Upper Neuse Riverkeeper®. Bierma will work with the Neuse River Foundation to enforce the Clean Water Act with the goal of protecting water quality, wildlife, recreation and public health in the Neuse River watershed. She will monitor water quality in the Upper Neuse River from the headwaters above Falls Lake to Goldsboro, investigate pollution sources, work with government agencies to eliminate pollution of the River, review NPDES permit applications and renewals, serve as an educational resource for all residents of the Neuse River watershed, and initiate environmental litigation when all other possible remedies have been exhausted.
Throughout her schooling and career, Bierma demonstrated a commitment to the protection of our natural resources. She recently received a Masters Degree of Energy and Environmental Policy from the University of Delaware which included studies in integrated water resources management, environmental planning and policy, regional watershed management, nonpoint source pollution, and watershed ecology. Before becoming the Upper Neuse Riverkeeper®, Bierma worked with the environmental policy team at The Conservancy of Southwest Florida.
Threats of explosive development in the Upper Neuse River watershed, particularly in Wake County, resulted in the Neuse River being listed as one of America's most endangered rivers in 2007. Board President Dave McCracken said, "Since 2001, the Upper Neuse Riverkeeper® program has served an important role in making headway in the fight to protect the Neuse River from poorly planned development. Alissa will continue the tradition of ensuring that the ‘voice' of the River is heard."
Founded in 1980, the mission of the Neuse River Foundation is to protect, restore and preserve the Neuse River Basin through education, advocacy and enforcement, in order to provide clean water for drinking, recreation and enjoyment to the communities it serves. The Neuse River Foundation supports the Upper Neuse Riverkeeper® based in Raleigh and the Lower Neuse Riverkeeper® based in New Bern.
-- END --
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Meet the Upper Neuse Riverkeeper
There will be a meet and greet for the new Upper Neuse Riverkeeper at the next MWW meeting.
We hope you can join us!
Wednesday, October 29 at 7PM.
Wake County Corporate Commons Building
4011 Carya Drive, Raleigh, NC 27610 (This is a business park off of Poole Road just east of I-440 Beltline) Click here for map.
We hope you can join us!
Wednesday, October 29 at 7PM.
Wake County Corporate Commons Building
4011 Carya Drive, Raleigh, NC 27610 (This is a business park off of Poole Road just east of I-440 Beltline) Click here for map.
Friday Update
Board of Commissioners Friday Update
October 24, 2008
ITEM 1. PUBLIC MEETING FOR HAZARD MITIGATION UPDATE – THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 13TH at 9:00 A.M.
As you are aware, the Town of Wendell has begun the process of updating its Hazard Mitigation Plan. This plan, which is updated every five years, will be the blueprint for reducing property damage and saving lives due to disasters that may affect Wendell in the future. This plan is also required in order for the Town of Wendell to receive certain types of state and federal disaster relief funds and reimbursements.
There will be a meeting held on Thursday, November 13, 2008 at 9 a.m. in the Wendell Courtroom to kick-off the public planning process for the 2008 Hazard Mitigation Plan. Elected officials are invited to attend this meeting and actively participate in the planning process as the town seeks to involve its citizens in the formulation of this plan. (An invitation to this meeting will be at commissioners’ seats at the board meeting on Monday.)
ITEM 2. LOCAL ELECTED LEADERS ACADEMY TRAINING OPPORTUNITY THROUGH THE UNC SCHOOL OF GOVERNMENT
As part of its ongoing Local Elected Leaders Academy, the NC School of Government will offer a one-day training session entitled, “Good Growth: Chance or Choice”, on February 24, 2009 in Raleigh. Click here for more information on this workshop.
ITEM 3. WAKEMED BOARD VOTE TO BUY SITE IN WENDELL FALLS DELAYED
It was reported in the Eastern Wake News and the News & Observer that WakeMed’s Board of Trustees have delayed its decision to buy property in Wendell Falls.. The article reports that WakeMed's Vice President of Ambulatory Services Carolyn Knaup blames rising interest rates for the decision to delay the purchase of the parcel. The project is still expected to be completed, but exactly when is uncertain. The hospital trustees are expected to vote on the purchase at their January quarterly meeting. Click here to read the article online.
ITEM 4. STUDY ABOUT EMPLOYEE WELLNESS PROGRAMS
A report from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina shows that employee wellness programs pay-off for employers. Some of the key findings include:
• In North Carolina, 70 percent of employers offer at least three workplace wellness programs, but 4 percent offer none.
• The average return on investment for employers is $3.14 per dollar spent on employee wellness.
• The four most commonly offered workplace wellness programs: smoke-free workplace, paid time off for doctor's visits or health care needs, on-site health screenings and health fairs.
• The four programs with the highest participation rates: paid time off for doctor's visits or health care needs, healthy cafe or vending options, health fairs and physical activity during work hours.
Click here to read the N&O article about this Blue Cross and Blue Shield study.
ITEM 5. OTHER:
A. The manager will be assisting the Town of Garner during the day on Monday and Tuesday in an assessment center for the hiring of a new recreation director. If you would like to contact him on Monday prior to the board meeting, please do so by email, and he will call you when time is available.
B. The new Wendell Falls web site is up and running. Click here to check it out.
C. Staff has arranged for Mr. Jeff Walker, from the brick industry, to make a presentation on November 17th to the Wendell Planning Board. Staff would like to invite all interested parties to attend. Matt Dobson, a representative of the vinyl industry, is scheduled to make a presentation at the December 15th Planning Board meeting.
D. The annual Wendell Chamber of Commerce banquet will be on Tuesday, November 11th (Veterans’ Day). The event will start at 6:00 p.m., and dinner will be served at 7:00 p.m.
ITEM 6. UPCOMING EVENTS:
DATE TIME EVENT LOCATION
10/27 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting @ Town Hall
11/03 6:00 p.m. UDO Meeting @ Town Hall
11/10 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting @ Town Hall
11/11 (Tues.) Veterans Day (town offices closed)
11/11 6:00 p.m. Chamber Banquet @ Wendell Community Center
11/13 9:00 a.m. Stakeholders Meeting – Hazard Mitigation Plan update @ Town Hall
11/17 7:00 p.m. Planning Board Meeting @ Town Hall
11/24 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting @ Town Hall
11/27 – 11/28 Thanksgiving holiday (town offices closed)
12/01 6:00 p.m. UDO Meeting @ Town Hall
12/08 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting @ Town Hall
12/15 7:00 p.m. Planning Board Meeting @ Town Hall
12/22 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting @ Town Hall
12/24 – 12/26 Christmas holiday (town offices closed)
01/01 New Year’s Day (town offices closed)
October 24, 2008
ITEM 1. PUBLIC MEETING FOR HAZARD MITIGATION UPDATE – THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 13TH at 9:00 A.M.
As you are aware, the Town of Wendell has begun the process of updating its Hazard Mitigation Plan. This plan, which is updated every five years, will be the blueprint for reducing property damage and saving lives due to disasters that may affect Wendell in the future. This plan is also required in order for the Town of Wendell to receive certain types of state and federal disaster relief funds and reimbursements.
There will be a meeting held on Thursday, November 13, 2008 at 9 a.m. in the Wendell Courtroom to kick-off the public planning process for the 2008 Hazard Mitigation Plan. Elected officials are invited to attend this meeting and actively participate in the planning process as the town seeks to involve its citizens in the formulation of this plan. (An invitation to this meeting will be at commissioners’ seats at the board meeting on Monday.)
ITEM 2. LOCAL ELECTED LEADERS ACADEMY TRAINING OPPORTUNITY THROUGH THE UNC SCHOOL OF GOVERNMENT
As part of its ongoing Local Elected Leaders Academy, the NC School of Government will offer a one-day training session entitled, “Good Growth: Chance or Choice”, on February 24, 2009 in Raleigh. Click here for more information on this workshop.
ITEM 3. WAKEMED BOARD VOTE TO BUY SITE IN WENDELL FALLS DELAYED
It was reported in the Eastern Wake News and the News & Observer that WakeMed’s Board of Trustees have delayed its decision to buy property in Wendell Falls.. The article reports that WakeMed's Vice President of Ambulatory Services Carolyn Knaup blames rising interest rates for the decision to delay the purchase of the parcel. The project is still expected to be completed, but exactly when is uncertain. The hospital trustees are expected to vote on the purchase at their January quarterly meeting. Click here to read the article online.
ITEM 4. STUDY ABOUT EMPLOYEE WELLNESS PROGRAMS
A report from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina shows that employee wellness programs pay-off for employers. Some of the key findings include:
• In North Carolina, 70 percent of employers offer at least three workplace wellness programs, but 4 percent offer none.
• The average return on investment for employers is $3.14 per dollar spent on employee wellness.
• The four most commonly offered workplace wellness programs: smoke-free workplace, paid time off for doctor's visits or health care needs, on-site health screenings and health fairs.
• The four programs with the highest participation rates: paid time off for doctor's visits or health care needs, healthy cafe or vending options, health fairs and physical activity during work hours.
Click here to read the N&O article about this Blue Cross and Blue Shield study.
ITEM 5. OTHER:
A. The manager will be assisting the Town of Garner during the day on Monday and Tuesday in an assessment center for the hiring of a new recreation director. If you would like to contact him on Monday prior to the board meeting, please do so by email, and he will call you when time is available.
B. The new Wendell Falls web site is up and running. Click here to check it out.
C. Staff has arranged for Mr. Jeff Walker, from the brick industry, to make a presentation on November 17th to the Wendell Planning Board. Staff would like to invite all interested parties to attend. Matt Dobson, a representative of the vinyl industry, is scheduled to make a presentation at the December 15th Planning Board meeting.
D. The annual Wendell Chamber of Commerce banquet will be on Tuesday, November 11th (Veterans’ Day). The event will start at 6:00 p.m., and dinner will be served at 7:00 p.m.
ITEM 6. UPCOMING EVENTS:
DATE TIME EVENT LOCATION
10/27 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting @ Town Hall
11/03 6:00 p.m. UDO Meeting @ Town Hall
11/10 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting @ Town Hall
11/11 (Tues.) Veterans Day (town offices closed)
11/11 6:00 p.m. Chamber Banquet @ Wendell Community Center
11/13 9:00 a.m. Stakeholders Meeting – Hazard Mitigation Plan update @ Town Hall
11/17 7:00 p.m. Planning Board Meeting @ Town Hall
11/24 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting @ Town Hall
11/27 – 11/28 Thanksgiving holiday (town offices closed)
12/01 6:00 p.m. UDO Meeting @ Town Hall
12/08 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting @ Town Hall
12/15 7:00 p.m. Planning Board Meeting @ Town Hall
12/22 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting @ Town Hall
12/24 – 12/26 Christmas holiday (town offices closed)
01/01 New Year’s Day (town offices closed)
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Friday Update
Board of Commissioners Friday Update
October 17, 2008
ITEM 1. LAST LAKE MYRA PARK COMMUNITY FORUM – TUESDAY, OCTOBER 21ST AT 7:00 P.M.
The last community forum for the Lake Myra Park planning process will be next Tuesday, October 21st at 7:00 p.m. at the Wendell Community Center. At this meeting, the final master plan for the park will be unveiled.
ITEM 2. BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS RETREAT – WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22ND
The October 22nd board of commissioners’ retreat will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the Zebulon Board of Commissioners Chamber. The building is located at 109 East Horton Street and is directly behind the Zebulon Police Department (which is on East Vance Street).
As previously mentioned, this retreat is designed to be a little less rigid in its schedule so that the board can talk about a subject as long as it wants. Mayor Broadwell will be the facilitator. Topics scheduled for discussion at the retreat include the following:
• Consideration of possible revenue shortfalls (spending priorities / economic issues)
• Little Creek WWTP permitting / follow-up to Resolution # R-08-02 (April 14, 2008) – a Resolution of Support and Commitment to Mitigative Measures to Address Secondary and Cumulative Impacts Associated with Water and Sewer Utility Projects
NOTE: This involves board agreement to work on stormwater and flood plain issues in order to permit an expansion of the Little Creek WWTP in Zebulon, which will serve part of Wendell down the road.
• Growth and planning issues
• Staffing / facility needs
• Commercial and retail development
• Board priorities and goals
ITEM 3. FEEDBACK FROM NCLM CONFERENCE
Mayor Broadwell, Commissioner Connolly and Town Clerk Jonnie Driver all have reported to have had a productive NC League of Municipalities conference this week. I am sure that you may want to talk to them individually about any presentations at the conference that struck a chord or sparked an idea for Wendell.
ITEM 4. HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN UPDATE
Town staff met again this week to continue the process of updating the town’s Hazard Mitigation Plan. This was the second in a series of meetings. Planner Stacy Griffin is leading this effort.
Mitigation planning is a process to identify policies, activities, and tools to implement mitigation actions. Mitigation is any sustained action taken to reduce or eliminate long-term risk to life and property from a hazard event.
Towns and counties are required to have a mitigation plan in order to receive FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) funds after a severe weather / emergency situation. Towns and counties are required to update hazard mitigation plans every five years.
A stakeholders meeting (for which the public, mayor and commissioners will be invited) will be at 9:00 a.m. on November 13, 2008. (This meeting has been moved-up one week due to a scheduling conflict.)
The first of two required public meetings on this matter is scheduled as part of the regular December 8, 2008 Board of Commissioners meeting.
ITEM 5. OTHER:
A. The agenda for the October 20th Planning Board meeting is at the end of this document.
B. The closing of the loan with BB&T for the leaf truck occurred on Thursday, October 16th. Staff hopes to receive the truck sometime in November.
C. Staff has arranged for Mr. Jeff Walker, from the brick industry, to make a presentation on November 17th to the Wendell Planning Board. Staff would like to invite all interested parties to attend. A representative of the vinyl industry has also been contacted.
D. Wendell United Methodist Church will have a 5K run on Sunday, October 19th at 4:00 p.m. The start of the race will involve the crossing of Wendell Boulevard, so the road will be closed for about 5-10 minutes.
E. The annual Wendell Chamber of Commerce banquet will be on Tuesday, November 11th (Veterans’ Day). The event will start at 6:00 p.m., and dinner will be served at 7:00 p.m.
F. A copy of the 2008 audit for the Wendell Fire Department has been received by the manager. Please stop by his office if you would like to review it.
ITEM 6. UPCOMING EVENTS:
DATE TIME EVENT LOCATION
10/20 7:00 p.m. Planning Board Meeting @ Town Hall
10/21 7:00 p.m. Meeting about Lake Myra Park Master Draft Plan @ Wendell Community Center
10/22 Possible Board of Commissioners Retreat
10/23 7:00 p.m. Board of Adjustment Training @ Town Hall
10/27 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting @ Town Hall
11/03 6:00 p.m. UDO Meeting @ Town Hall
11/10 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting @ Town Hall
11/11 (Tues.) Veterans Day (town offices closed)
11/11 6:00 p.m. Chamber Banquet @ Wendell Community Center
11/13 9:00 a.m. Stakeholders Meeting – Hazard Mitigation Plan update @ Town Hall
11/17 7:00 p.m. Planning Board Meeting @ Town Hall
11/24 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting @ Town Hall
11/27 – 11/28 Thanksgiving holiday (town offices closed)
October 17, 2008
ITEM 1. LAST LAKE MYRA PARK COMMUNITY FORUM – TUESDAY, OCTOBER 21ST AT 7:00 P.M.
The last community forum for the Lake Myra Park planning process will be next Tuesday, October 21st at 7:00 p.m. at the Wendell Community Center. At this meeting, the final master plan for the park will be unveiled.
ITEM 2. BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS RETREAT – WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22ND
The October 22nd board of commissioners’ retreat will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the Zebulon Board of Commissioners Chamber. The building is located at 109 East Horton Street and is directly behind the Zebulon Police Department (which is on East Vance Street).
As previously mentioned, this retreat is designed to be a little less rigid in its schedule so that the board can talk about a subject as long as it wants. Mayor Broadwell will be the facilitator. Topics scheduled for discussion at the retreat include the following:
• Consideration of possible revenue shortfalls (spending priorities / economic issues)
• Little Creek WWTP permitting / follow-up to Resolution # R-08-02 (April 14, 2008) – a Resolution of Support and Commitment to Mitigative Measures to Address Secondary and Cumulative Impacts Associated with Water and Sewer Utility Projects
NOTE: This involves board agreement to work on stormwater and flood plain issues in order to permit an expansion of the Little Creek WWTP in Zebulon, which will serve part of Wendell down the road.
• Growth and planning issues
• Staffing / facility needs
• Commercial and retail development
• Board priorities and goals
ITEM 3. FEEDBACK FROM NCLM CONFERENCE
Mayor Broadwell, Commissioner Connolly and Town Clerk Jonnie Driver all have reported to have had a productive NC League of Municipalities conference this week. I am sure that you may want to talk to them individually about any presentations at the conference that struck a chord or sparked an idea for Wendell.
ITEM 4. HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN UPDATE
Town staff met again this week to continue the process of updating the town’s Hazard Mitigation Plan. This was the second in a series of meetings. Planner Stacy Griffin is leading this effort.
Mitigation planning is a process to identify policies, activities, and tools to implement mitigation actions. Mitigation is any sustained action taken to reduce or eliminate long-term risk to life and property from a hazard event.
Towns and counties are required to have a mitigation plan in order to receive FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) funds after a severe weather / emergency situation. Towns and counties are required to update hazard mitigation plans every five years.
A stakeholders meeting (for which the public, mayor and commissioners will be invited) will be at 9:00 a.m. on November 13, 2008. (This meeting has been moved-up one week due to a scheduling conflict.)
The first of two required public meetings on this matter is scheduled as part of the regular December 8, 2008 Board of Commissioners meeting.
ITEM 5. OTHER:
A. The agenda for the October 20th Planning Board meeting is at the end of this document.
B. The closing of the loan with BB&T for the leaf truck occurred on Thursday, October 16th. Staff hopes to receive the truck sometime in November.
C. Staff has arranged for Mr. Jeff Walker, from the brick industry, to make a presentation on November 17th to the Wendell Planning Board. Staff would like to invite all interested parties to attend. A representative of the vinyl industry has also been contacted.
D. Wendell United Methodist Church will have a 5K run on Sunday, October 19th at 4:00 p.m. The start of the race will involve the crossing of Wendell Boulevard, so the road will be closed for about 5-10 minutes.
E. The annual Wendell Chamber of Commerce banquet will be on Tuesday, November 11th (Veterans’ Day). The event will start at 6:00 p.m., and dinner will be served at 7:00 p.m.
F. A copy of the 2008 audit for the Wendell Fire Department has been received by the manager. Please stop by his office if you would like to review it.
ITEM 6. UPCOMING EVENTS:
DATE TIME EVENT LOCATION
10/20 7:00 p.m. Planning Board Meeting @ Town Hall
10/21 7:00 p.m. Meeting about Lake Myra Park Master Draft Plan @ Wendell Community Center
10/22 Possible Board of Commissioners Retreat
10/23 7:00 p.m. Board of Adjustment Training @ Town Hall
10/27 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting @ Town Hall
11/03 6:00 p.m. UDO Meeting @ Town Hall
11/10 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting @ Town Hall
11/11 (Tues.) Veterans Day (town offices closed)
11/11 6:00 p.m. Chamber Banquet @ Wendell Community Center
11/13 9:00 a.m. Stakeholders Meeting – Hazard Mitigation Plan update @ Town Hall
11/17 7:00 p.m. Planning Board Meeting @ Town Hall
11/24 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting @ Town Hall
11/27 – 11/28 Thanksgiving holiday (town offices closed)
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Friday Update
Board of Commissioners Friday Update
October 10, 2008
ITEM 1. NCLM CONFERENCE THIS WEEKEND
The NC League of Municipalities’ Annual Conference will start on Sunday, October 12th. Mayor Broadwell, Commissioner Connolly and Town Clerk Jonnie Driver will be attending.
ITEM 2. BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS RETREAT – WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22ND
The October 22nd date for the board of commissioners’ retreat has been confirmed. The retreat will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the Zebulon Board of Commissioners Chamber. The building is located at 109 East Horton Street and is directly behind the Zebulon Police Department (which is on East Vance Street).
As previously mentioned, this retreat is designed to be a little less rigid in its schedule so that the board can talk about a subject as long as it wants. Mayor Broadwell will be the facilitator. Topics scheduled for discussion at the retreat include the following:
• Consideration of possible revenue shortfalls (spending priorities / economic issues)
• Little Creek WWTP permitting / follow-up to Resolution # R-08-02 (April 14, 2008) – a Resolution of Support and Commitment to Mitigative Measures to Address Secondary and Cumulative Impacts Associated with Water and Sewer Utility Projects
NOTE: This involves board agreement to work on stormwater and flood plain issues in order to permit an expansion of the Little Creek WWTP in Zebulon, which will serve part of Wendell down the road.
• Growth and planning issues
• Staffing / facility needs
• Commercial and retail development
• Board priorities and goals
ITEM 3. UPDATE ON LITTLE RIVER RESEVOIR WATERSHED PROTECTION INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT
The Wake County Board of Commissioners approved the Little River Reservoir Protection Interlocal Agreement at its meeting on Monday, October 6th. The Wendell Board of Commissioners adopted the agreement at the December 10, 2007 meeting. The revised agreement is scheduled to be on the agenda at the October 27th Wendell Board of Commissioners meeting.
ITEM 4. STATE HIGHWAY TAX INITIATIVE – MILEAGE TAX STUDY
NC is conducting a study to review the potential of replacing the gas tax with a mileage tax. First of all, the problem is that insufficient revenues are being generated by the gas tax to maintain state roads. The idea with the mileage tax is to one day collect highway taxes on every mile we drive -- replacing the gas tax on every gallon we buy.
One argument for the mileage tax is that people who use the roads more should pay more for road maintenance and improvements. An argument against the tax is that some consider it to be a regressive tax. Some say that residents with less income are generally those who buy cheaper houses further away from their jobs and who have to drive more.
A good article about the mileage tax study was in the News & Observer on October 7th. Click here to view that article.
The mileage tax option is also the cover story of the October issues of the NC League of Municipalities’ “League Letter”.
ITEM 5. HANOR LANE SEWER PROJECT UPDATE
Vaughn Utilities has completed the sewer line across the Williams’ property (beside Dollar General) and should complete the sewer line behind Dollar General and up to Hanor Lane today. They have successfully completed the bore beneath Hanor Lane and have installed the first leg of sewer toward the backside of Maple Court Apartments. Next week, they plan to finish installing the second leg of sewer behind Maple Court, set the next upstream manhole and begin rerouting the water line.
A time extension of 30 days for the completion of the project was granted by the town to the contractor (due to issues involved in the bore under Wendell Boulevard, as well as some issues involved in the installation of some water /sewer taps and valves).
ITEM 6. CODE OF ORDINANCES UPDATE
The proofs for the new Code of Ordinances have been sent to the printer. Staff hopes to receive the new notebooks in November. Before becoming effective, the board will have to adopt the Code in its entirety through an adopting resolution. Once this is adopted, the new code will be available online soon thereafter.
ITEM 7. ENGINEERING RFQ PRE-SUBMISSION MEETING
A pre-submission meeting for the Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for Engineering Services was held on Wednesday, October 8th. A copy of the RFQ was sent to approximately 30 firms. Nine firms were represented at the meeting; however, attendance was not mandatory, so the town may receive more than 9 submissions.
RFQ submissions are due on October 28th. Staff will select up to 5 finalists to make presentations to the board on November 10th. The board will then direct staff concerning the firm(s) with which to negotiate a contract.
The current engineering services contract with McKim & Creed (excluding the long-term contract between the town and McKim & Creed for the inspection of Wendell Falls) expires on December 31, 2008.
ITEM 8. UPDATE ON PREPARATIONS FOR VIDEOTAPING BOARD MEETINGS
Town of Knightdale staff came over to Wendell this week and helped-out with installation of electrical conduit in the courtroom for the video cameras to tape the board of commissioners meetings. The delivery of the cameras is taking longer than anticipated because they are on back order. After the cameras are received, the rest of the video equipment will be installed by a contractor.
ITEM 9. EWTV FUNDING
As you are aware, the NC Legislature changed the funding formula for PEG (or "Public, Educational and Governmental") channels like East Wake TV Channel 22 through adoption of Senate Bill S1716 this past summer. PEG channels are not mandated by federal law; rather, they are a right given to the franchising authority, which it may choose to exercise.
PEG channel revenue is collected from cable franchisees by the NC Department of Revenue and is distributed to the towns by the state. PEG channel funding is distributed based on the number of PEG channels each town claims. Knightdale, Zebulon, and Wendell not only claimed Channel 22 as a PEG channel, but also claimed the Raleigh PEG channels that are re-broadcast on Time Warner Cable in these service areas. Senate Bill S1716 disallowed the ability to claim the rebroadcasted PEG channels from other jurisdictions.
Senate Bill S1716 was originally expected to cut the funding for East Wake TV in half (from about to about $35,000). Initial information received suggests that EWTV may not lose the funding originally expected. The funding level for PEG channel distribution will not be confirmed until the distribution is made. Staff will keep the board abreast of this issue as PEG channel revenue is received.
ITEM 10. SIDEWALK AREAS OF CONCERN
Staff would like your input about specific areas of concern that you have for the sidewalk maintenance around town, as well as high priority areas for new sidewalks. Your input is desired as staff works to prepare a draft scope of work for the USDA Rural Development Rural Business Enterprise Grant (RBEG) that was discussed with the board at the July 14th meeting. A “Safe Route to Schools” grant program through the NC Department of Transportation may be another funding source to explore.
ITEM 11. OTHER:
A. Dr. Clayton’s office (the Acts Medical Clinic) opened on Tuesday, October 7th. Click here to view Dr. Clayton’s web site.
B. McDonald’s is scheduled to open sometime this weekend.
C. Staff has arranged for Mr. Jeff Walker, from the brick industry, to make a presentation on November 17th to the Wendell Planning Board. Staff would like to invite all interested parties to attend. A representative of the vinyl industry has also been contacted, but a date for the vinyl representative to address the planning board has not yet been scheduled.
D. The annual Wendell Chamber of Commerce banquet will be on Tuesday, November 11th (Veterans’ Day). The event will start at 6:00 p.m., and dinner will be served at 7:00 p.m.
E. FYI – Upgrades to the Wendell Library are in the current Wake County bond program. The budget is $349,000, which includes roof replacement and miscellaneous interior upgrades. The work is scheduled for FY12. The last improvements at the library consisted of interior finish improvements, which were made about 5 -6 years ago.
F. A copy of the 2008 audit for the Wendell Fire Department has been received by the manager. Please stop by his office if you would like to review it.
G. A number of new homes have been constructed at Edgemont Landing. If you have not driven through the subdivision in a while, you may want to see how the subdivision is developing.
ITEM 12. UPCOMING EVENTS:
DATE TIME EVENT LOCATION
10/12 – 10/14 NC League of Municipalities Conference @ Charlotte
10/20 7:00 p.m. Planning Board Meeting @ Town Hall
10/21 7:00 p.m. Meeting about Lake Myra Park Master Draft Plan @ Wendell Community Center
10/22 Possible Board of Commissioners Retreat
10/23 7:00 p.m. Board of Adjustment Training @ Town Hall
10/27 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting @ Town Hall
11/03 6:00 p.m. UDO Meeting @ Town Hall
11/10 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting @ Town Hall
11/11 (Tues.) Veterans Day (town offices closed)
11/11 6:00 p.m. Chamber Banquet @ Wendell Community Center
11/17 7:00 p.m. Planning Board Meeting @ Town Hall
11/20 9:00 a.m. Stakeholders Meeting – Hazard Mitigation Plan update @ Town Hall
11/24 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting @ Town Hall
11/27 – 11/28 Thanksgiving holiday (town offices closed)
October 10, 2008
ITEM 1. NCLM CONFERENCE THIS WEEKEND
The NC League of Municipalities’ Annual Conference will start on Sunday, October 12th. Mayor Broadwell, Commissioner Connolly and Town Clerk Jonnie Driver will be attending.
ITEM 2. BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS RETREAT – WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22ND
The October 22nd date for the board of commissioners’ retreat has been confirmed. The retreat will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the Zebulon Board of Commissioners Chamber. The building is located at 109 East Horton Street and is directly behind the Zebulon Police Department (which is on East Vance Street).
As previously mentioned, this retreat is designed to be a little less rigid in its schedule so that the board can talk about a subject as long as it wants. Mayor Broadwell will be the facilitator. Topics scheduled for discussion at the retreat include the following:
• Consideration of possible revenue shortfalls (spending priorities / economic issues)
• Little Creek WWTP permitting / follow-up to Resolution # R-08-02 (April 14, 2008) – a Resolution of Support and Commitment to Mitigative Measures to Address Secondary and Cumulative Impacts Associated with Water and Sewer Utility Projects
NOTE: This involves board agreement to work on stormwater and flood plain issues in order to permit an expansion of the Little Creek WWTP in Zebulon, which will serve part of Wendell down the road.
• Growth and planning issues
• Staffing / facility needs
• Commercial and retail development
• Board priorities and goals
ITEM 3. UPDATE ON LITTLE RIVER RESEVOIR WATERSHED PROTECTION INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT
The Wake County Board of Commissioners approved the Little River Reservoir Protection Interlocal Agreement at its meeting on Monday, October 6th. The Wendell Board of Commissioners adopted the agreement at the December 10, 2007 meeting. The revised agreement is scheduled to be on the agenda at the October 27th Wendell Board of Commissioners meeting.
ITEM 4. STATE HIGHWAY TAX INITIATIVE – MILEAGE TAX STUDY
NC is conducting a study to review the potential of replacing the gas tax with a mileage tax. First of all, the problem is that insufficient revenues are being generated by the gas tax to maintain state roads. The idea with the mileage tax is to one day collect highway taxes on every mile we drive -- replacing the gas tax on every gallon we buy.
One argument for the mileage tax is that people who use the roads more should pay more for road maintenance and improvements. An argument against the tax is that some consider it to be a regressive tax. Some say that residents with less income are generally those who buy cheaper houses further away from their jobs and who have to drive more.
A good article about the mileage tax study was in the News & Observer on October 7th. Click here to view that article.
The mileage tax option is also the cover story of the October issues of the NC League of Municipalities’ “League Letter”.
ITEM 5. HANOR LANE SEWER PROJECT UPDATE
Vaughn Utilities has completed the sewer line across the Williams’ property (beside Dollar General) and should complete the sewer line behind Dollar General and up to Hanor Lane today. They have successfully completed the bore beneath Hanor Lane and have installed the first leg of sewer toward the backside of Maple Court Apartments. Next week, they plan to finish installing the second leg of sewer behind Maple Court, set the next upstream manhole and begin rerouting the water line.
A time extension of 30 days for the completion of the project was granted by the town to the contractor (due to issues involved in the bore under Wendell Boulevard, as well as some issues involved in the installation of some water /sewer taps and valves).
ITEM 6. CODE OF ORDINANCES UPDATE
The proofs for the new Code of Ordinances have been sent to the printer. Staff hopes to receive the new notebooks in November. Before becoming effective, the board will have to adopt the Code in its entirety through an adopting resolution. Once this is adopted, the new code will be available online soon thereafter.
ITEM 7. ENGINEERING RFQ PRE-SUBMISSION MEETING
A pre-submission meeting for the Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for Engineering Services was held on Wednesday, October 8th. A copy of the RFQ was sent to approximately 30 firms. Nine firms were represented at the meeting; however, attendance was not mandatory, so the town may receive more than 9 submissions.
RFQ submissions are due on October 28th. Staff will select up to 5 finalists to make presentations to the board on November 10th. The board will then direct staff concerning the firm(s) with which to negotiate a contract.
The current engineering services contract with McKim & Creed (excluding the long-term contract between the town and McKim & Creed for the inspection of Wendell Falls) expires on December 31, 2008.
ITEM 8. UPDATE ON PREPARATIONS FOR VIDEOTAPING BOARD MEETINGS
Town of Knightdale staff came over to Wendell this week and helped-out with installation of electrical conduit in the courtroom for the video cameras to tape the board of commissioners meetings. The delivery of the cameras is taking longer than anticipated because they are on back order. After the cameras are received, the rest of the video equipment will be installed by a contractor.
ITEM 9. EWTV FUNDING
As you are aware, the NC Legislature changed the funding formula for PEG (or "Public, Educational and Governmental") channels like East Wake TV Channel 22 through adoption of Senate Bill S1716 this past summer. PEG channels are not mandated by federal law; rather, they are a right given to the franchising authority, which it may choose to exercise.
PEG channel revenue is collected from cable franchisees by the NC Department of Revenue and is distributed to the towns by the state. PEG channel funding is distributed based on the number of PEG channels each town claims. Knightdale, Zebulon, and Wendell not only claimed Channel 22 as a PEG channel, but also claimed the Raleigh PEG channels that are re-broadcast on Time Warner Cable in these service areas. Senate Bill S1716 disallowed the ability to claim the rebroadcasted PEG channels from other jurisdictions.
Senate Bill S1716 was originally expected to cut the funding for East Wake TV in half (from about to about $35,000). Initial information received suggests that EWTV may not lose the funding originally expected. The funding level for PEG channel distribution will not be confirmed until the distribution is made. Staff will keep the board abreast of this issue as PEG channel revenue is received.
ITEM 10. SIDEWALK AREAS OF CONCERN
Staff would like your input about specific areas of concern that you have for the sidewalk maintenance around town, as well as high priority areas for new sidewalks. Your input is desired as staff works to prepare a draft scope of work for the USDA Rural Development Rural Business Enterprise Grant (RBEG) that was discussed with the board at the July 14th meeting. A “Safe Route to Schools” grant program through the NC Department of Transportation may be another funding source to explore.
ITEM 11. OTHER:
A. Dr. Clayton’s office (the Acts Medical Clinic) opened on Tuesday, October 7th. Click here to view Dr. Clayton’s web site.
B. McDonald’s is scheduled to open sometime this weekend.
C. Staff has arranged for Mr. Jeff Walker, from the brick industry, to make a presentation on November 17th to the Wendell Planning Board. Staff would like to invite all interested parties to attend. A representative of the vinyl industry has also been contacted, but a date for the vinyl representative to address the planning board has not yet been scheduled.
D. The annual Wendell Chamber of Commerce banquet will be on Tuesday, November 11th (Veterans’ Day). The event will start at 6:00 p.m., and dinner will be served at 7:00 p.m.
E. FYI – Upgrades to the Wendell Library are in the current Wake County bond program. The budget is $349,000, which includes roof replacement and miscellaneous interior upgrades. The work is scheduled for FY12. The last improvements at the library consisted of interior finish improvements, which were made about 5 -6 years ago.
F. A copy of the 2008 audit for the Wendell Fire Department has been received by the manager. Please stop by his office if you would like to review it.
G. A number of new homes have been constructed at Edgemont Landing. If you have not driven through the subdivision in a while, you may want to see how the subdivision is developing.
ITEM 12. UPCOMING EVENTS:
DATE TIME EVENT LOCATION
10/12 – 10/14 NC League of Municipalities Conference @ Charlotte
10/20 7:00 p.m. Planning Board Meeting @ Town Hall
10/21 7:00 p.m. Meeting about Lake Myra Park Master Draft Plan @ Wendell Community Center
10/22 Possible Board of Commissioners Retreat
10/23 7:00 p.m. Board of Adjustment Training @ Town Hall
10/27 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting @ Town Hall
11/03 6:00 p.m. UDO Meeting @ Town Hall
11/10 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting @ Town Hall
11/11 (Tues.) Veterans Day (town offices closed)
11/11 6:00 p.m. Chamber Banquet @ Wendell Community Center
11/17 7:00 p.m. Planning Board Meeting @ Town Hall
11/20 9:00 a.m. Stakeholders Meeting – Hazard Mitigation Plan update @ Town Hall
11/24 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting @ Town Hall
11/27 – 11/28 Thanksgiving holiday (town offices closed)
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Friday Update
Board of Commissioners Friday Update
October 3, 2008
(distributed on October 5, 2008)
ITEM 1. HARVEST FESTIVAL AND RELATED EVENTS – A PERSONAL NOTE
As first time attendees, my family and I thoroughly enjoyed the Harvest Festival. The weather was perfect, and the event seemed to be very successful. I look forward to hearing a report from the Chamber about this year’s events.
The “Friday Memo” is being distributed on Sunday this week, due to the fact that I volunteered at the Doug Proctor Memorial Golf Tournament on Friday afternoon and participated in the Harvest Festival festivities over the weekend.
Thanks to all of the town employees (particularly the Public Works and Police Department employees) who worked so hard before, during and after the festival.
The Doug Proctor Golf Tournament went extremely well on Friday, and the concert on Thursday (with the Craig Woolard Band) was enjoyed by many. During the concert, the Proctor family announced that Doug Proctor Foundation would give $10,000 to the Recreation Department’s Capital Campaign. Thanks to the Proctor family for all that they do in support of Wendell and the Wendell recreation program.
ITEM 2. UPDATE ON LITTLE RIVER RESEVOIR WATERSHED PROTECTION INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT
The Wake County Board of Commissioners is scheduled to discuss and vote on the Little River Reservoir Protection Interlocal Agreement at its meeting on Monday, October 6th at 2:00 p.m. The Wendell Board of Commissioners adopted the agreement at the December 10, 2007 meeting. The agreement has not yet been signed. The Wake County Commissioners had concerns about the density and zoning restrictions in the interlocal agreement. The county commissioners asked the county planning board to review the restrictions, and the planning board recommended some less stringent zoning regulations. It is the manager’s understanding that if this version of the agreement is adopted by the county commissioners, it will return to the municipalities involved for review of the new zoning regulations and re-adoption by the various governing bodies.
(To view the Board of Commissioners agenda, click here.)
On a somewhat related note, the Town of Rolesville has requested an extension of its ETJ into the Little River Reservoir watershed area. The county planning board discussed this item at its meeting on October 1st. The item was tabled.
ITEM 3. POSSIBLE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS RETREAT – WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22ND
Staff has not heard from anyone who has a conflict with the proposed October 22nd retreat date. Please let us know if you do have a conflict. Mayor Broadwell is working on the agenda. The agenda and schedule will be shared with the board as soon as it is finalized. If you have any suggestions for retreat topics, please share them with Mayor Broadwell or the manager.
ITEM 4. BLUE RIBBON MEETING ON THE FUTURE OF WAKE COUNTY
On Thursday, October 4th, Mayor Broadwell and the town manager attended the quarterly Blue Ribbon Committee Meeting on the Future of Wake County. The focus of this session was about transportation and transit service. Bill #2363 (Intermodal Transportation) is the bill to keep an eye on next spring, which would create an additional ½-cent sales tax to support transit funding.
ITEM 5. TRIANGLE TRANSIT GRANT APPLICATION FOR BUSES TO SUPPORT BUS SERVICE IN EASTERN WAKE COUNTY NOT APPROVED
As was previously reported, Triangle Transit’s application for a statewide JARC grant to purchase over-the-road coaches for the Eastern Wake Express bus service was not approved. However, Triangle Transit is continuing to plan for service implementation by the beginning of FY2010.
Triangle Transit is beginning conversations to look for alternatives to purchasing the vehicles to operate this bus service. Triangle Transit plans to apply for Capital Area MPO JARC funds (anticipated application early 2009) to assist with operating costs of the service.
Triangle Transit also plans to meet with NCDOT to explain why we believe this service meets the intent of the program so that we can re-submit for their next round of funding (anticipated application this fall/winter).
It is the intent of Triangle Transit to continue the planning efforts for the Eastern Wake Express service. To this end, a meeting with the staffs of Wendell, Zebulon and Knightdale is tentatively planned for late October or early November.
ITEM 6. SIDEWALK AREAS OF CONCERN
Staff would like your input about specific areas of concern that you have for the sidewalk maintenance around town, as well as high priority areas for new sidewalks. Your input is desired as staff works to prepare a draft scope of work for the USDA Rural Development Rural Business Enterprise Grant (RBEG) that was discussed with the board at the July 14th meeting. A “Safe Route to Schools” grant program through the NC Department of Transportation may be another funding source to explore.
ITEM 7. DROUGHT STATUS UPDATE
All of Wake County has now been moved out of the lowest drought category designation, the “Abnormally Dry” category, due to recent rain.
ITEM 8. OTHER:
A. The NC League of Municipalities Annual Conference will start on Sunday, October 12th. Mayor Broadwell, Commissioner Connolly and Town Clerk Jonnie Driver will be attending.
B. Wendell Falls opended a temporary welcome center on October 1 at the corner of Poole Road and Martin Pond road on the east side of Wendell Falls. This welcome center will serve as the headquarters until the permanent welcome center opens near the interchange this spring.
C. Dr. Clayton has activated a preliminary website (http://www.actsmedicalclinic.com/) for Wendell citizens to access concerning his practice.
ITEM 9. UPCOMING EVENTS:
DATE TIME EVENT LOCATION
10/06 6:00 p.m. UDO Meeting @ Town Hall
10/09 7:00 p.m. Planning Board Training @ Town Hall
10/12 – 10/14 NC League of Municipalities Conference @ Charlotte
10/13 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting @ Town Hall
10/20 7:00 p.m. Planning Board Meeting @ Town Hall
10/21 7:00 p.m. Meeting about Lake Myra Park Master Draft Plan @ Wendell Community Center
10/22 Possible Board of Commissioners Retreat
10/23 7:00 p.m. Board of Adjustment Training @ Town Hall
10/27 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting @ Town Hall
11/03 6:00 p.m. UDO Meeting @ Town Hall
11/10 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting @ Town Hall
11/11 (Tues.) Veterans Day (town offices closed)
11/17 7:00 p.m. Planning Board Meeting @ Town Hall
11/20 9:00 a.m. Stakeholders Meeting – Hazard Mitigation Plan update @ Town Hall
11/24 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting @ Town Hall
11/27 – 11/28 Thanksgiving holiday (town offices closed)
October 3, 2008
(distributed on October 5, 2008)
ITEM 1. HARVEST FESTIVAL AND RELATED EVENTS – A PERSONAL NOTE
As first time attendees, my family and I thoroughly enjoyed the Harvest Festival. The weather was perfect, and the event seemed to be very successful. I look forward to hearing a report from the Chamber about this year’s events.
The “Friday Memo” is being distributed on Sunday this week, due to the fact that I volunteered at the Doug Proctor Memorial Golf Tournament on Friday afternoon and participated in the Harvest Festival festivities over the weekend.
Thanks to all of the town employees (particularly the Public Works and Police Department employees) who worked so hard before, during and after the festival.
The Doug Proctor Golf Tournament went extremely well on Friday, and the concert on Thursday (with the Craig Woolard Band) was enjoyed by many. During the concert, the Proctor family announced that Doug Proctor Foundation would give $10,000 to the Recreation Department’s Capital Campaign. Thanks to the Proctor family for all that they do in support of Wendell and the Wendell recreation program.
ITEM 2. UPDATE ON LITTLE RIVER RESEVOIR WATERSHED PROTECTION INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT
The Wake County Board of Commissioners is scheduled to discuss and vote on the Little River Reservoir Protection Interlocal Agreement at its meeting on Monday, October 6th at 2:00 p.m. The Wendell Board of Commissioners adopted the agreement at the December 10, 2007 meeting. The agreement has not yet been signed. The Wake County Commissioners had concerns about the density and zoning restrictions in the interlocal agreement. The county commissioners asked the county planning board to review the restrictions, and the planning board recommended some less stringent zoning regulations. It is the manager’s understanding that if this version of the agreement is adopted by the county commissioners, it will return to the municipalities involved for review of the new zoning regulations and re-adoption by the various governing bodies.
(To view the Board of Commissioners agenda, click here.)
On a somewhat related note, the Town of Rolesville has requested an extension of its ETJ into the Little River Reservoir watershed area. The county planning board discussed this item at its meeting on October 1st. The item was tabled.
ITEM 3. POSSIBLE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS RETREAT – WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22ND
Staff has not heard from anyone who has a conflict with the proposed October 22nd retreat date. Please let us know if you do have a conflict. Mayor Broadwell is working on the agenda. The agenda and schedule will be shared with the board as soon as it is finalized. If you have any suggestions for retreat topics, please share them with Mayor Broadwell or the manager.
ITEM 4. BLUE RIBBON MEETING ON THE FUTURE OF WAKE COUNTY
On Thursday, October 4th, Mayor Broadwell and the town manager attended the quarterly Blue Ribbon Committee Meeting on the Future of Wake County. The focus of this session was about transportation and transit service. Bill #2363 (Intermodal Transportation) is the bill to keep an eye on next spring, which would create an additional ½-cent sales tax to support transit funding.
ITEM 5. TRIANGLE TRANSIT GRANT APPLICATION FOR BUSES TO SUPPORT BUS SERVICE IN EASTERN WAKE COUNTY NOT APPROVED
As was previously reported, Triangle Transit’s application for a statewide JARC grant to purchase over-the-road coaches for the Eastern Wake Express bus service was not approved. However, Triangle Transit is continuing to plan for service implementation by the beginning of FY2010.
Triangle Transit is beginning conversations to look for alternatives to purchasing the vehicles to operate this bus service. Triangle Transit plans to apply for Capital Area MPO JARC funds (anticipated application early 2009) to assist with operating costs of the service.
Triangle Transit also plans to meet with NCDOT to explain why we believe this service meets the intent of the program so that we can re-submit for their next round of funding (anticipated application this fall/winter).
It is the intent of Triangle Transit to continue the planning efforts for the Eastern Wake Express service. To this end, a meeting with the staffs of Wendell, Zebulon and Knightdale is tentatively planned for late October or early November.
ITEM 6. SIDEWALK AREAS OF CONCERN
Staff would like your input about specific areas of concern that you have for the sidewalk maintenance around town, as well as high priority areas for new sidewalks. Your input is desired as staff works to prepare a draft scope of work for the USDA Rural Development Rural Business Enterprise Grant (RBEG) that was discussed with the board at the July 14th meeting. A “Safe Route to Schools” grant program through the NC Department of Transportation may be another funding source to explore.
ITEM 7. DROUGHT STATUS UPDATE
All of Wake County has now been moved out of the lowest drought category designation, the “Abnormally Dry” category, due to recent rain.
ITEM 8. OTHER:
A. The NC League of Municipalities Annual Conference will start on Sunday, October 12th. Mayor Broadwell, Commissioner Connolly and Town Clerk Jonnie Driver will be attending.
B. Wendell Falls opended a temporary welcome center on October 1 at the corner of Poole Road and Martin Pond road on the east side of Wendell Falls. This welcome center will serve as the headquarters until the permanent welcome center opens near the interchange this spring.
C. Dr. Clayton has activated a preliminary website (http://www.actsmedicalclinic.com/) for Wendell citizens to access concerning his practice.
ITEM 9. UPCOMING EVENTS:
DATE TIME EVENT LOCATION
10/06 6:00 p.m. UDO Meeting @ Town Hall
10/09 7:00 p.m. Planning Board Training @ Town Hall
10/12 – 10/14 NC League of Municipalities Conference @ Charlotte
10/13 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting @ Town Hall
10/20 7:00 p.m. Planning Board Meeting @ Town Hall
10/21 7:00 p.m. Meeting about Lake Myra Park Master Draft Plan @ Wendell Community Center
10/22 Possible Board of Commissioners Retreat
10/23 7:00 p.m. Board of Adjustment Training @ Town Hall
10/27 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting @ Town Hall
11/03 6:00 p.m. UDO Meeting @ Town Hall
11/10 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting @ Town Hall
11/11 (Tues.) Veterans Day (town offices closed)
11/17 7:00 p.m. Planning Board Meeting @ Town Hall
11/20 9:00 a.m. Stakeholders Meeting – Hazard Mitigation Plan update @ Town Hall
11/24 7:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners Meeting @ Town Hall
11/27 – 11/28 Thanksgiving holiday (town offices closed)
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Meeting Reminder
Greetings,
The Wendell Community Coalition will meet on Tuesday, October 7th at the Wendell Community Center at 7:30pm.
Our guest speaker will be Stan Norwalk who is a candidate for Wake County Commissioner.
Stan was very active in WakeUp Wake County (http://wakeupwakecounty.com/) and had spoke at one of our meetings in that capacity.
He asked some time ago to speak to the good people of Eastern Wake so we extended that invitation and have him scheduled as noted above.
Please note this is not an endorsement but should be viewed as an opportunity to be better informed about a candidate who may have a big impact on our growth issues here in this part of Wake County.
There will be a question / answer period after his presentation.
Regards,
Glenn Harris
Jenny Melton
Co-Chairs
Wendell Community Coalition
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The momentum is building. Get aboard the train.
Endorsed by the N&O
Ahead at the polls
I am honored to receive the endorsement of the N&O. I now have the endorsement of the N&O, the AFL-CIO and the Wake Teachers Association.
Here is what the N&O said in their endorsement.
"STAN NORWALK: Two-term Republican incumbent Kenn Gardner faces a lively challenge from Democrat Stan Norwalk. Because the commissioners board now has a 4-3 Republican majority, and because Gardner is the only Republican incumbent on the ballot, partisan control of the board is at stake. The board now has a centrist flavor; Joe Bryan, a Republican, was elected chairman by virtue of Democratic support. Still, a Norwalk victory likely would lead to a more progressive consensus on issues such as spending for schools and paying for the costs of growth...{snip}.
Norwalk, 76, is a retired Union Carbide executive who lives in Cary. He has a broad record of involvement in Cary and Wake politics as a volunteer and citizen activist, and his record has been a good one, showing a strong and thoughtful command of issues that come before the commissioners board.
Norwalk is more credible as a supporter of doing what it takes to maintain that excellence. He has pushed for alternatives to the property tax as a way to broaden the county's tax base and raise more money for schools and other infrastructure improvements. At the same time, he is properly concerned with making sure that growth is not allowed to outstrip the county's capacity for vital services, from education to roads to drinking water.{snip}
Norwalk has convinced us that he has the knowledge, experience and insight to help move the county in the right direction more effectively. He has our endorsement as an outstanding commissioner in the making."
In addition, the latest poll shows that I am ahead. But it ain't over till it's over. I am running against a well entrenched Commissioner, with substantial name recognition and the powers that come with incumbency. He is endorsed and will be funded by the powerful PAC's of the Realtors and Home Builders. I am not resting on my oars. I will be working hard through Nov. 4th.
I need your help and support.
Here is how you can help.
* Donate to my campaign. The costs are high for reaching over 400,000 voters over 860 square miles. Please make your check out to "Committee to Elect Stan Norwalk" and send it to my Treasurer, Kathy Hertzberg, 102 Magnolia Tree Court, Cary, NC 27518. Please include your occupation and employer as required by NC law.
* Forward this email to your friends and tell them why you are voting for me.
* Put a sign in your yard - or better yet distribute signs to your friends and neighbors. Write me at stann@nc.rr.com with your address and how many signs you need. Name recognition is vital in this down ballot election.
* Volunteer for duty at early voting sites and or the Nov. 4th polling sites. Call me at 363-4685 for details.
This newsletter is authorized and paid for by the Committee to Elect Stan Norwalk.
The Wendell Community Coalition will meet on Tuesday, October 7th at the Wendell Community Center at 7:30pm.
Our guest speaker will be Stan Norwalk who is a candidate for Wake County Commissioner.
Stan was very active in WakeUp Wake County (http://wakeupwakecounty.com/) and had spoke at one of our meetings in that capacity.
He asked some time ago to speak to the good people of Eastern Wake so we extended that invitation and have him scheduled as noted above.
Please note this is not an endorsement but should be viewed as an opportunity to be better informed about a candidate who may have a big impact on our growth issues here in this part of Wake County.
There will be a question / answer period after his presentation.
Regards,
Glenn Harris
Jenny Melton
Co-Chairs
Wendell Community Coalition
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The momentum is building. Get aboard the train.
Endorsed by the N&O
Ahead at the polls
I am honored to receive the endorsement of the N&O. I now have the endorsement of the N&O, the AFL-CIO and the Wake Teachers Association.
Here is what the N&O said in their endorsement.
"STAN NORWALK: Two-term Republican incumbent Kenn Gardner faces a lively challenge from Democrat Stan Norwalk. Because the commissioners board now has a 4-3 Republican majority, and because Gardner is the only Republican incumbent on the ballot, partisan control of the board is at stake. The board now has a centrist flavor; Joe Bryan, a Republican, was elected chairman by virtue of Democratic support. Still, a Norwalk victory likely would lead to a more progressive consensus on issues such as spending for schools and paying for the costs of growth...{snip}.
Norwalk, 76, is a retired Union Carbide executive who lives in Cary. He has a broad record of involvement in Cary and Wake politics as a volunteer and citizen activist, and his record has been a good one, showing a strong and thoughtful command of issues that come before the commissioners board.
Norwalk is more credible as a supporter of doing what it takes to maintain that excellence. He has pushed for alternatives to the property tax as a way to broaden the county's tax base and raise more money for schools and other infrastructure improvements. At the same time, he is properly concerned with making sure that growth is not allowed to outstrip the county's capacity for vital services, from education to roads to drinking water.{snip}
Norwalk has convinced us that he has the knowledge, experience and insight to help move the county in the right direction more effectively. He has our endorsement as an outstanding commissioner in the making."
In addition, the latest poll shows that I am ahead. But it ain't over till it's over. I am running against a well entrenched Commissioner, with substantial name recognition and the powers that come with incumbency. He is endorsed and will be funded by the powerful PAC's of the Realtors and Home Builders. I am not resting on my oars. I will be working hard through Nov. 4th.
I need your help and support.
Here is how you can help.
* Donate to my campaign. The costs are high for reaching over 400,000 voters over 860 square miles. Please make your check out to "Committee to Elect Stan Norwalk" and send it to my Treasurer, Kathy Hertzberg, 102 Magnolia Tree Court, Cary, NC 27518. Please include your occupation and employer as required by NC law.
* Forward this email to your friends and tell them why you are voting for me.
* Put a sign in your yard - or better yet distribute signs to your friends and neighbors. Write me at stann@nc.rr.com with your address and how many signs you need. Name recognition is vital in this down ballot election.
* Volunteer for duty at early voting sites and or the Nov. 4th polling sites. Call me at 363-4685 for details.
This newsletter is authorized and paid for by the Committee to Elect Stan Norwalk.
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