MINUTES OF A MEETING OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF CHAPEL

HILL, NORTH CAROLINA, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 1990 AT 7:30 P.M.

 

Mayor Howes called the meeting to order at 7:31 p.m.

 

Council Members in attendance were Julie Andresen, Joyce Brown, Joe Herzenberg, Nancy Preston, Alan Rimer, James C. Wallace, Arthur werner and Roosevelt Wilkerson, Jr. Also in attendance were Assistant to the Mayor Lisa Price, Town Manager Cal Horton, Assistant Town Managers Sonna Loewenthal and Florentine Miller, Finance Director James Baker, Planning Director Roger Waldon, Assistant to the Attorney Richard Sharpless and Town Attorney Ralph Karpinos.

 

There were no ceremonies or hearings.

 

                      Item 3 ‑ Petitions

 

Development Regulations

 

Joe Hakan, President of the Chapel Hill‑Carrboro Downtown Commission, requested that the Council allow the Town planning staff to review ordinances and regulations for small businesses. Mr. Hakan asked that common sense assessments be undertaken to improve development regulations for small businesses. Sally Jessee stated that the Chapel Hill‑Carrboro Chamber of Commerce supported Mr. Hakan's petition. Orange County Economic Development Director Ted Abernathy said his agency had performed some preliminary work in this matter and would be pleased to assist the Town staff.

 

Mayor Howes welcomed Chapel Hill‑Carrboro Chamber of Commerce Director and former Town Manager David Taylor. Mayor Howes noted that this was Mr. Taylor's first appearance before the Council in his new capacity. Mr. Taylor requested that the Council ask the Town Manager to have planning staff examine alternatives for reducing review time for small projects. Council Member Andresen requested that planning staff broaden its review to include all projects, keeping in mind the various objectives of the Comprehensive Plan.

 

COUNCIL MEMBER ANDRESEN MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER RIMER, TO REFER THE MATTER TO THE TOWN MANAGER. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (9‑0).

 

Calling Solid Waste Planning Forum

 

Council Member Brown suggested that the Council hold a public forum on solid waste collection on Tuesday, October 16, 1990 at 7:30 p.m. in the Town Council Chamber. Council Member Andresen inquired whether the forum would include topics beyond alternate methods of refuse collection. Council Member Brown said yes.

 

Council Member Wilkerson inquired whether new methodologies permitted the more timely scheduling of the forum. Council Member Rimer said this was correct. Council Member Rimer noted that the public forum would also include discussions about the need for solid waste education and a review of the efforts of the Landfill Owner's Group and Solid Waste Task Force. Council Member Andresen asked whether the public would have time to comment on refuse collection methods. Council Member Rimer said that this would be the first topic of discussion at the forum.

 

COUNCIL MEMBER BROWN MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER WALLACE TO SCHEDULE A PUBLIC FORUM ON SOLID WASTE PLANNING ISSUES ON TUESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 1990 AT 7:30 P.M. IN THE TOWN COUNCIL CHAMBER, 306 NORTH COLUMBIA STREET. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (9‑0).

 

There were no minutes for consideration.

 

                    Item 5 ‑ Bond Referenda

 

Mayor Howes briefly described this evening's public hearing procedure, noting that three separate hearings were scheduled. Town Manager Horton reviewed current Town financial conditions and forecasts including projected future property tax rates for the General and Transportation Funds. Mr. Horton also reviewed anticipated additional operating costs in the event that additional bonds were approved by Town voters. He also stressed the tenuous nature of Federal and State funding to the Town. Mr. Horton said that future economic conditions would likely be less favorable and more uncertain.

 

Council Member Andresen requested clarification of the components in the projected future tax rate calculation. Mr. Horton noted that items such as unusual changes in service costs, such as the addition of public safety personnel, were not included in these projections. Council Member Wilkerson inquired whether anticipated health insurance cost increases were included. Mr. Horton said that they were not, adding that significant cost increases were anticipated. Council Member Wilkerson asked whether these costs were projected to increase by 25 to 40 percent on average. Mr. Horton said these figures mirrored anticipated increases nationally.

 

Council Member Preston inquired about the $700,000 appropriated fund balance in the General Fund. Mr. Horton noted that it had been Town practice not to exhaust all resources at the end of each fiscal year. Council Member Wilkerson inquired about the level of return on Town investments. Mr. Baker said that this year's return on investment would be approximately 8%, yielding investment income of about $300,000.


 

          Public Hearings on Proposed Bond Referendum

 

COUNCIL MEMBER HERZENBERG MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER PRESTON, TO OPEN THE PUBLIC HEARING. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (9‑0).

 

Town Manager Horton said that the Council was holding public hearings this evening as the next step in the legal process of possibly conducting a bond referendum in November, 1990. He noted that general obligation bonds are sold to finance major community capital improvement projects. Mr. Horton said that if the bonds were not issued, the projects under consideration could be completed at a later time. He stated that the Town's Comprehensive Plan indicated the need for the proposed capital facilities.

 

Library

 

Library Board of Trustees Chairperson Jane Joyner urged the Council to proceed with a library bond referendum in November. Ms. Joyner noted that $4 million of bonds were approved for the library building in November, 1986. Ms. Joyner stated that a consultant study had shown the need for a larger library facility, necessitating the sale of additional bonds.

 

R.D. Smith noted that the United States Congress was trying to reduce current Federal spending by $50 billion. Mr. Smith stated that the State of North Carolina was also in a spending quandary. He expressed concern that his local tax bill was much higher than anticipated. Mr. Smith noted that there had been no construction activity at the proposed library and park site to date. Mr. Smith urged the Council to construct a library facility with the $4 million in 1986 approved bonds. He said that putting any of the three issues before the voters in November would put some residents, particularly low‑income residents, in very difficult economic situations.

 

Wilson McCarrow, 604 Emory Drive, said he underscored Mr. Smith's remarks. Mr. McCarrow urged the Council to construct the library facility with the $4 million of approved bonds. Mr. McCarrow said he did not see the need for consideration of the other two bond issues at this time.

 

John Graham, a resident of the Town since 1946, said that a bond referendum was not appropriate at this time, due to serious national and international economic circumstances. Mr. Graham said he opposed additional funding for the construction of a library facility. He said that there was no evidence that the Library committee had explored possible facility decentralization. Mr. Graham added that Town growth had been declining since the 1960's. Mr. Graham said he opposed holding any bond referendums in November, particularly for the library.

 

Riley Wilson said he, too, was concerned about property tax rates. Mr. Wilson nevertheless encouraged the Council to place the library facility on the November 6 ballot for consideration by Town residents. Mr. Wilson said the $4 million initially approved was an underestimate of actual needs.

 

Berry Credle urged the Council to keep an eye on its long‑term objectives.  Mr. Credle said that Town Manager Horton had eloquently outlined possible problems in his earlier remarks. Mr. Credle stated that the Council should think about building a library for 2021 rather than 1991.

 

Barbara Schutz, a Town resident since 1968, noted that she had served on the Library Board of Trustees from 1976 to 1986.  Ms. Schutz said that during her ten years on the Board, the problems  of library inadequacy were studied in‑depth. Citing her extensive personal use of the library's many resources, Ms. Schutz stated that the Town had tremendous library needs which could only be met by the construction of a larger facility. Ms. Schutz urged the Council to call a library bond referendum in November.

 

Mary Liken said that her parents had educated themselves in libraries.  Ms. Liken expressed her desire for Town library services to be expanded. She said it would be a privilege to pay forty to fifty cents per week in additional property taxes for a better library facility. Ms. Liken said that the library was a community crossroads and a place for public enjoyment. Ms. Liken urged the Council to include the library in a November bond referendum.

 

Zora Rashkis noted that she had spoken to librarians in other communities who had expressed the importance of not undersizing library facilities. Ms. Rashkis noted that the cost of a library bond issue would be spread out over a number of years. Ms. Rashkis said the community wants and needs a larger library facility.

 

Gene Watson said he was speaking in opposition to the library due to the difficult economic tenor of the times. Mr. Watson stated that all Town residents had access to the University's library facilities. Mr. Watson noted that he was serving as spokesperson for at least twelve other persons who emphasized the current need for necessities only. Mr. Watson said it was not necessary or appropriate to add to the community's economic burden at this time.

 

Andrew Canada, 108 Village Lane, said it appeared very unlikely that the need for the library facility could have changed by seventy‑five percent within a period of four years. Mr. Canada expressed grave concern that some residents of the Northside and other neighborhoods were finding it increasingly difficult to survive on fixed incomes.  Mr. Canada said that these same residents would also find it extremely difficult to leave their homes in order to vote.  Mr. Canada asked the Council to reexamine Town priorities and to remember those who were unable to attend this evening's hearing due to infirmity and other limiting conditions.

 

Helen Urquhart read a letter from Jim White stating that Orange County was not contributing its fair financial share for library services. Ms. Urquhart noted that Mr. White supported greater financial contributions by Orange County for library operations. Mr. White's letter also noted that the proposed library overestimated the Town's projected growth rate, making the construction of a 47,000 square foot facility unnecessary.

 

Robert Joesting expressed concern that walking to the new library facility was not an option for most Town residents. Mr. Joesting suggested that the Council consider constructing several libraries of varying sizes, rather than one central facility. He said that this approach could possibly put library facilities within walking distance of all Town residents. Mr. Joesting requested that the Council have an open process to discuss the Town's future library needs.

 

Adrian Cubberley, Director of the Cross‑county Community Association, said he was sympathetic to the findings of the library study committee. Mr. Cubberley stated that technologies such as microfilm could be instrumental in reducing the future need for additional library space. Mr. Cubberley said that emerging problems such as crime and education merited the Council's attention, rather than additional expansion of the library facility. Mr. Cubberley urged the Council to postpone all three proposed bond referenda items.

 

Earl Mitchell said that the Council should proceed with a library bond referendum in November. Mr. Mitchell stated that the library was an important educational facility. He noted that the university's library facilities were not conducive to the needs of the Town's children.

 

Bob Worten said he wanted to see the library bond issue placed before Town voters in November.

 

COUNCIL MEMBER PRESTON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER HERZENBERG, TO CLOSE THE HEARING. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (9‑0).

 

Street and Sidewalk Improvements

 

COUNCIL MEMBER WERNER MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER PRESTON, TO OPEN THE HEARING. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (9‑0).

 

Town Manager Horton briefly reviewed the proposed street and sidewalk bond referendum, outlining possible uses of bond proceeds.

 

Frances Hargraves said she was speaking on behalf of the Town's walkers. Ms. Hargraves stated that she had fallen on area streets five times due to poor pavement conditions.

 

COUNCIL MEMBER RIMER MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER WILKERSON, TO CLOSE THE PUBLIC HEARING. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (9‑0).

 

Open Space

 

COUNCIL MEMBER WALLACE MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER RIMER, TO OPEN THE HEARING. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (9‑0).

 

Town Manager Horton presented an overview of the proposed open space bond referendum.

 

Eleanor Scandlin, Parks and Recreation Commission Chairperson, said expansion of Town recreation facilities was needed to serve the future needs of the community, particularly children and senior citizens.

 

Herschel Slater, speaking as a member of the Parks and Recreation commission and as a Town resident, noted that the Town's inventory of open space had grown from 170 acres in 1986 to approximately 400 acres in 1990, primarily due to the leadership and work of the Council. Mr. Slater stated that the demand for leisure services had grown markedly in recent years. He urged the Council not to overlook the current and future needs for recreation facility expansion.

 

Gene Watson said that parks and open space were not utilized by all Town residents. Mr. Watson urged the Council to say no to a proposed parks and open space bond referendum.

 

Wilson McCarrow stated that there was no pressing need for additional open space and parks. Mr. McCarrow also emphasized the uncertain financial future of the world, nation and Town.

 

Glenn Mitchell, a Town resident since 1977, said he had worked on several previous Town bond issues. Mr. Mitchell stated that Town residents had a proven commitment to the development of greenways. Mr. Mitchell also said that the community needed to maintain its high quality of life. He noted that the supply of land for open space in Town was a finite commodity. Mr. Mitchell noted that Town residents were well‑served by bonds previously approved for open space. Mr. Mitchell urged the Council to keep all three items on the proposed November bond referendum.

 

Berry Credle rhetorically inquired what would have happened if George Washington had become discouraged and gone home.

 

COUNCIL MEMBER RIMER MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER WILKERSON, TO CLOSE THE PUBLIC HEARING. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (9‑0).

 

    Council Discussion and Consideration of Bond Referendum

 

Mayor Howes stated that economic conditions had changed significantly since initial Council discussion concerning a possible bond referendum. Mayor Howes said it appeared advisable for the Council to allow voters to decide on the size of the proposed library facility, while deferring bond referendums on street and sidewalk and parks and open space. Mayor Howes stated that he did not want to see bond referendums turned down for the wrong reason.

 

Council Member Preston said she was impressed by the comments of citizens at this evening's hearings. Council Member Preston stated that she was particularly moved by Mr. Canada's comments concerning residents in the Northside neighborhood. Council Member Preston stressed the need for voters to decide on the Town's future capital needs, particularly the library facility. Council Member Preston inquired whether the amounts in the bond issues were adjustable. Mr. Horton said that the amount for the three individual items could be lowered at the Council's discretion. Town Attorney Karpinos noted that he did not recommend this approach. Council Member Preston noted the importance of designating funds for sidewalk construction.

 

Council Member Andresen noted the importance of letting voters decide on the Town's capital projects. Council Member Andresen added that there was nothing in the Manager's financial projections to suggest that taxes would not increase in the future. Council Member Andresen suggested that this trend reflected the need to explore alternative revenue sources. Council Member Andresen said she was not convinced of the Town's future growth rate and therefore could not support the proposed bond referendum for a larger library facility.

 

Council Member Werner said that compelling arguments for all three bond referenda had been presented this evening. Council Member werner concurred with Mayor Howes' earlier remark that it would be unfortunate for any of the items to be defeated solely due to current economic circumstances. He stated that it would be very difficult to bring previously defeated bond referendum items back to the voters for reconsideration. Council Member Werner stressed the need for a library bond referendum in light of the previous four years discussion about the Town's library needs.

 

Council Member Brown stated that many good points had been made this evening concerning the proposed bond referendums. Council Member Brown stressed the need for the Council to critically reevaluate the Town's capital needs.

 

Council Member Rimer said that Council Member Werner had echoed his personal sentiments in his earlier remarks. Council Member Rimer expressed the need to receive a technological assessment of the Town's future library needs. Council Member Rimer said he favored holding a library bond referendum in November.

 

Council Member Wilkerson expressed his concern about the proposed timing of the bond referendum, noting that issues would likely be more subject to opposition in November due to uncertain financial conditions. Council Member Wilkerson said he was concerned about the community's current financial situation and the potential for a series of future tax increases. Council Member Wilkerson said he favored placing a library bond referendum before voters in November.

 

Council Member Herzenberg expressed concurrence with Council Member Wilkerson's remarks concerning future tax increases. Council Member Herzenberg said he favored putting all three bond referendums before the voters in November, since there would not be another large voter turnout until the Presidential Election in 1992.

 

COUNCIL MEMBER HERZENBERG MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER PRESTON, THAT THE COUNCIL ADOPT WITHOUT CHANGE OR AMENDMENT AND DIRECT THE CLERK TO PUBLISH AS PRESCRIBED BY THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT BOND ACT THE BOND ORDER ENTITLED "BOND ORDER AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $3,000,000 GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS OF THE TOWN OF CHAPEL HILL, NORTH CAROLINA TO PAY CAPITAL COSTS OF PROVIDING LIBRARY FACILITIES".

 

Council Member Wallace inquired whether the three referendums would be placed on the ballot as three separate questions. Mayor Howes said this was correct. Council Member Wallace said that the combined well‑reasoned thoughts of speakers at this evening's hearing was a remarkable comment on, and tribute to, the Town. Council Member Wallace emphasized the importance of the Town acquiring additional open space in the near future. Council Member Wallace noted that the Town had debt to property tax valuation ratio of approximately 1.9%. Council Member Wallace said this figure was quite remarkable when contrasted with the same statistic in other communities around the State. Council Member Wallace stressed the importance of giving voters the opportunity to express themselves concerning the Town's future capital needs.

 

THE QUESTION WAS CALLED AND THE MOTION WAS PLACED ON THE FLOOR FOR A VOTE. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED BY A VOTE OF 7‑2, WITH COUNCIL MEMBERS ANDRESEN AND BROWN VOTING NO.

 

COUNCIL MEMBER PRESTON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER RIMER, TO INCLUDE A $2.4 MILLION ITEM FOR PARKS AND OPEN SPACE IN THE PROPOSED NOVEMBER 6, 1990 REFERENDUM.


 

THE MOTION FAILED, BY A VOTE OF 1‑8, WITH COUNCIL MEMBER WALLACE VOTING YES.

 

COUNCIL MEMBER PRESTON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER HERZENBERG, TO INCLUDE A $3.6 MILLION ITEM FOR STREET AND SIDEWALK IMPROVEMENTS IN THE PROPOSED NOVEMBER 6, 1990 REFERENDUM.

 

THE MOTION FAILED BY A VOTE OF 2‑7, WITH COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESTON AND HERZENBERG VOTING YES.

 

COUNCIL MEMBER PRESTON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER HERZENBERG, TO ADOPT RESOLUTION 1.  THE MOTION WAS Adopted BY A VOTE OF 7‑2, WITH COUNCIL MEMBERS ANDRESEN AND BROWN VOTING NO.

 

 

A RESOLUTION CALLING A SPECIAL BOND REFERENDUM (90‑9‑10/R‑1)

 

WHEREAS, the bond order entitled, "BOND ORDER AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $3,000,000 GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS OF THE TOWN OF CHAPEL HILL, NORTH CAROLINA, TO PAY CAPITAL COSTS OF PROVIDING LIBRARY FACILITIES, was introduced at the meeting of the Council held on August 27, 1990 and the Council has subsequently held a public hearing thereon and has adopted such bond order; and

 

WHEREAS, in order for such bond order to take effect the affirmative vote of a majority of those persons who vote on such bond orders is required; and

 

WHEREAS, the Council has been advised that November 6, 1990 is a date on which a State‑wide election will be held and is not thirty (30) days before or ten (10) days after a State‑wide primary, election or referendum or within thirty (30) days before or ten (10) days after any other primary, election or referendum;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill, North Carolina as follows:

 

     Section 1.  The bond referendum with respect to said bond orders shall be held on November 6, 1990.

 

     Section 2.  The Clerk is hereby directed to cause a notice of the referendum to be published twice in the form prescribed  by law in a qualified newspaper, the first such publication  to be not less than fourteen (14) days before the last day on which voters may register for the referendum and the second publication to be not less than seven (7) days before the last day on which voters may register for the referendum.

 

     Section 3.  The Clerk is hereby directed to mail or deliver  a certified copy of this resolution to the Board of Elections  of the County of Orange within three (3) days after the date on which this resolution is adopted by the Council.

 

This the 10th day of September, 1990.

 

 

       Item 6 ‑ Discussion of Rural Buffer Alternatives

 

Council Member Rimer suggested that given the lateness of the hour, the Council might be well‑advised to discuss the rural buffer at another Council meeting. Council Member Werner noted that this evening's item called for discussion only, rather than a decision­making process.

 

Planning Director Roger Waldon briefly reviewed rural buffer issues, noting that many of these items had been discussed at the August 30th joint public hearing.

 

Council Member Andresen inquired why the grandfathering of lots of record was significant. Mr. Waldon noted that this was a major change in past policy emphasis, which had previously focused on low density development patterns. Council Member Andresen said that the summary memorandum presented to the Council, particularly the historical narrative, was well written.

 

Livy Ludington of the Rural Buffer Task Force, said that time was of the essence in this matter. Ms. Ludington expressed her desire to elicit Council comment prior to the study group's next meeting on September 20th.

 

Lois Herring, OWASA Board Chairperson, noted that the issue of rural character guidelines for the County and development standards for the rural buffer was quite complex. Ms. Herring said that OWASA Board was willing to offer its technical and legal expertise relative to alternative methods and arrangements which could be considered for providing water and sewer services in the rural buffer. Ms. Herring incorporated her statement of August 30th into the record of the hearing by reference. A copy of the statement is available for inspection in the Town Clerk's Office.

 

Ms. Herring noted that OWASA was weighing the pros and cons of satellite operations in its analysis of providing water and sewer alternatives in the rural buffer. Ms. Herring noted that OWASA does not extend, or allow to be extended, lines to areas that have not been previously approved through the planning process of local governments. Ms. Herring noted that the OWASA was in the process of determining its level of involvement with rural buffer service questions. Ms. Herring stated that the OWASA Board of Directors was open to a continuing dialogue with the Town and other local governing boards on this issue.

 

Council Member Werner noted that the rural buffer matter was a complicated issue. Council Member Werner said that the Council appeared to unanimously oppose the extension of water and sewer lines into the rural buffer. Council Member Andresen commended the efforts of the rural character study committee for identifying compromises in rural buffer standards.  Council Member Andresen said she was not convinced that individual developers could not win court cases to install water and sewer lines in the rural buffer.

 

Council Member Rimer said he did not favor the extension of water and sewer lines into the rural buffer. Council Member Rimer suggested that the Orange Water and Sewer Authority evaluate possible methodologies for water and sewer service. Council Member Wallace concurred with Council Member Andresen's and Rimer's remarks concerning protection of the rural buffer.  Mayor Howes said he was pleased and impressed with the Council's unanimity of recommendations to the Rural Buffer Task Force. Mayor Howes suggested that the Council could possibly meet with the Planning Board or Rural Buffer Task Force to discuss this matter. Council Member Werner said he wanted to see alternative scenarios presented by the study group.

 

Council Member Rimer noted that hamlets could be developed with alternative water and sewer systems.  Council Member Rimer suggested that Orange Water and Sewer Authority could evaluate the possibility of providing alternative systems for hamlets. Council Member Werner noted that the Council was not ruling out the possibility of establishing hamlets as an alternative.

 

Council Member Brown noted the importance of bringing environmental issues into the overall debate of water and sewer extension into the rural buffer. Council Member Brown inquired whether clustering would be encouraged along railroad lines. Ms. Ludington said yes, noting that the feasibility of light rail could possibly be explored in the future.  Council Member Andresen raised the question of who would be responsible for the cost and maintenance of alternative systems. Council Member Andresen also stressed the importance of keeping all parties informed about rural buffer discussions. Council Member Werner requested that the Town staff provide a map detailing possible locations for clustering along rail lines.

 

                 Item 7 ‑ Design Review Board

 

Council Member Rimer noted that the Design Task Force had reviewed the proposed guidelines for usage by the Design Review Board. Council Member Rimer added that attendance at the Design Task Force's most recent meeting had been the best turnout in eighteen months.  Council Member Preston noted that the guidelines did not contain references to solid waste collection systems.  Council Member Rimer said that these references would be added, as would references for solar energy.  Council Member Andresen suggested that special use procedures could also be reviewed. Council Member Rimer said that Council Member Andresen's point was well taken.

 

                   Item 8 ‑ Small Area Plans

 

Planning Director Roger Waldon said that the Manager was recommending the area south of Morgan Creek as the first locality for the small area planning process. Mr. Waldon also noted that the proposed resolution before the Council would establish a Small Area Plan Working Group. Council Member Preston inquired whether all ten members of the Planning Board would be included in the group. Mr. Waldon said this was correct.

 

Council Member Preston inquired how the Planning Board would fit this additional responsibility into its schedule. Mr. Waldon said that meetings concerning small area plans would replace those traditionally held to discuss long‑range planning issues. Council Member Preston inquired how the proposed Northside neighborhood small area plan would be impacted by the addition of the Morgan Creek area. Mr. Waldon responded that both plans would receive timely attention by Town staff. Council Member Rimer inquired whether it would be possible to receive the Morgan Creek small area plan in March, rather than June, 1991. Mr. Waldon responded that March‑April could be a target date. Mr. Horton stressed the need for adequate input by area residents. Council Member Rimer suggested amending the target date to April, 1991.

 

COUNCIL MEMBER RIMER MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER WALLACE TO ADOPT RESOLUTION 2, AS AMENDED. THE RESOLUTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (9‑0).

 

A RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING THE SMALL AREA PLAN WORK GROUP AND DIRECTING IT TO PREPARE A SMALL AREA PLAN FOR THE SOUTHERN AREA (90‑9‑10/R‑2)

 

WHEREAS, the Town Council has directed that Small Area Plans be prepared for the undeveloped land in Chapel Hill's Urban Service Area; and

 

WHEREAS, the Summary of Existing Conditions for these areas has been completed; and

 

WHEREAS, the next step of the process is to prepare concept plans for the selected area; and

 

WHEREAS, the Southern Area is composed in large part of environmentally sensitive land in need of special attention and is bisected by a major highway; and

 

WHEREAS, the involvement of property owners in the area and other interested citizens is a critical part of this planning process;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill hereby establishes the Small Area Planning Work Group to consist of 15 members including the Planning Board members, three citizens who live in the Small Area and two citizens at large.

 

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Small Area Plan Work Group is charged with the task of developing Concept Plans for the Southern Area to recommend to the Council for the Small Area.  The Work Group will involve the citizens who live in the area to be planned and all other interested citizens to the fullest extent possible  in drawing up the Plan. The Work Group will present the Concept plans to the Council no later than June, 1991.

 

This the 10th day of September, 1990.

 

         Item 9 ‑ Agreements with Habitat for Humanity

 

Mr. Waldon noted that the staff had been meeting with Habitat for Humanity officials since June, attempting to formalize cooperation between the two parties. Council Member Andresen said she applauded the concept of cooperation. John Eckblad said he was excited about his organization working cooperatively with the Town. Mr. Eckblad said the mission of Habitat is to provide decent and affordable housing for all. Council Member Herzenberg requested a clarification of Habitat's stated priorities would accommodate public housing residents. Mr. Eckblad stressed that those living in shacks had top priority, but that the guidelines are subject to change as the organization and programs develop. He added that the maximum income level for assistance was currently $26,000. Council Member Wilkerson noted that the proposed memorandum of cooperation was in draft form, with additional details of the development agreement to be worked out in the future.

 

COUNCIL MEMBER WILKERSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER PRESTON, TO ADOPT RESOLUTION 3. THE RESOLUTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (9‑0).

 

A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF A MEMORANDUM OF COOPERATION WITH HABITAT FOR HUMANITY (90‑9‑10/R‑3)

 

WHEREAS, the Town of Chapel Hill and Habitat for Humanity share common goals for the provision of affordable housing for low ­income families; and

 

WHEREAS, Habitat for Humanity has offered to cooperate with the Town in a variety of ways to achieve these common goals;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Council authorizes execution of a Memorandum of Cooperation with Habitat for Humanity of Orange County, Inc., in substantially the form as shown in the attached draft.

 

This the 10th day of September, 1990.

 

COUNCIL MEMBER WALLACE MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER HERZENBERG, TO ADOPT RESOLUTION 4. THE RESOLUTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (9‑0).

 

A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING NEGOTIATION OF A DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT WITH HABITAT FOR HUMANITY (90‑9‑10/R‑4)

 

WHEREAS, the Town of Chapel Hill and Habitat for Humanity share common goals for the provision of affordable housing for low ­income families; and

 

WHEREAS, Habitat for Humanity has offered to cooperate with the Town in a variety of ways to achieve these common goals;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Town Council authorizes the Town Manager to proceed with development of this proposal as described in the attached report and negotiate a Development Agreement with Habitat for Humanity.

 

This the 10th day of September, 1990.

 

 

            Item 10 ‑ Nominations and Appointments

 

All applicants to the Design Review Board were nominated for appointment consideration at the Council's September 24th meeting. Also nominated were Martin Rody and Colleen Carlucci‑Sirgo.

 

All three student applicants (Charles M. Brittain, III, Alec Guettel and Andrew Peterson) were appointed to the Noise Ordinance Monitoring Committee unanimously.  Don McChesney was unanimously appointed to the Historic Commission.

 

Bill Bracey was selected as the Council's recommended candidate for the Town's vacant seat on the Orange County Economic Development Commission.

 

Original voting ballots are available for inspection, by appointment, in the Town Clerk's Office.

 

                   Item 11 ‑ Consent Agenda

 

Council Member Rimer requested that item F be removed for discussion.

 

COUNCIL MEMBER PRESTON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER WERNER, TO ADOPT THE BALANCE OF THE CONSENT AGENDA. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (9‑0).

 

A RESOLUTION TO ADOPT VARIOUS RESOLUTIONS AND ORDINANCES (90‑9‑ 10/R‑5)

 

BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill that the Council hereby adopts the resolutions and ordinances as submitted by the Manager in regards to the following:

 

     a.   Designation of signatory authority (R‑6, R‑7).

 

     b.   Renewal of Head Start lease (R‑8).

 

     c.   Ashley Forest parking restrictions (0‑1).

 

     d.   Basnight Lane parking restrictions (0‑2).

 

     e.   Brookstone Drive parking restrictions (0‑3).

 

     g.   Pine Knolls Neighborhood Association agreement (0‑5).

 

     h.   Revision to Military Leave section of the Code of Ordinances (0‑6).

 

This the 10th day of September, 1990.

 

 

A RESOLUTION DESIGNATING SIGNATURE AUTHORITY ON ACCOUNTS AT CENTRAL CAROLINA BANK (90-9-10/R-6)  (located in Minute Book #57)

 

 

A RESOLUTION RENEWING THE LEASE OF THE RIDGEFIELD COMMUNITY CENTER TO THE CHAPEL‑HILL CARRBORO HEAD START PROGRAM (90‑9‑10/R‑8)

 

WHEREAS, the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill on September 14, 1989, pursuant to G.S. 160A‑272, authorized the Town Manager to lease the Ridgefield Community Center to Chapel Hill‑Carrboro Head Start; and

 

WHEREAS, the term of said lease was for one year, renewable for one subsequent one‑year term upon approval of the Council; and

 

WHEREAS, Chapel Hill‑Carrboro Head Start entered into a lease with the Town for use of the Ridgefield Community Center on October 1, 1989; and

 

WHEREAS, Chapel Hill‑Carrboro Head Start, in accord with said lease, has notified the Town Manager in writing of its desire to renew the lease for a one‑year period commencing on October 1, 1990;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill that the Council approves and authorizes the Town Manager, pursuant to Council's Resolution of September 14, 1987 and the : lease dated October 1, 1989, to enter into, on behalf of the Town, a renewal agreement for the lease of the Ridgefield Community Center located in the Ridgefield Public Housing Neighborhood on Estes Drive east of the Bypass, for use as a classroom, for a term of one year commencing on October 1, 1990.

 

This the 10th day of September, 1990.

 

 

AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 21 OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES (90‑9‑ 10/0‑I)

 

BE IT ORDAINED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill:

 

                           SECTION I

 

That section 21‑27 of the Town Code of Ordinances, "No parking as to particular streets" is amended by inserting the following therein in appropriate alphabetical order:

 

Street             Side      From               To

Ashley Forest Road South     The center of      The east end of

                             Airport Road       the street

 

Ashley Forest Road North     The center of      A point 150

                             Airport Road       feet east.

 

 

                          SECTION II

 

These ordinances shall be effective on Monday September 24, 1990.

 

                          SECTION III

 

All ordinances and portions of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed.

 

This the 10th day of September, 1990.

 

 

AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 21 OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES (90‑9‑ 10/0‑2)

 

BE IT ORDAINED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill:

 

                           SECTION I

 

That Section 21‑27 of the Town Code of Ordinances, "No parking as to particular streets" is amended by inserting the following therein in appropriate alphabetical order:

 

Street             Side      From               To

Basnight Lane      East      The center of      The north end of

                             Cameron Ave.       the street

 

Basnight Lane      West      A point 425 feet   The north end of

                             north of the       the street

                             center of Cameron

                             Ave.

 

                          SECTION II

 

That Section 2a‑27.1 item (c) of the Town Code of ordinances, "No parking during certain hours. (c) 9:00 a.m, to 4:00 p.m. Monday. Friday" is amended by inserting the following therein in appropriate alphabetical order:

 

           (c) 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday‑Friday

 

Street             Side      From               To

Basnight Lane      West      The center of      A point 425 feet

                             Cameron Ave.       north of the

                                                center of Cameron

                                                Ave.

 

                          SECTION III

 

This ordinance shall be effective on Monday September 24, 1990.


 

                          SECTION IV

 

All ordinances and portions of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed.

 

This the 10th day of September, 1990.

 

AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 21 OF THE TOWN CODE OF ORDINANCES

(90‑9‑10/0‑3)

 

BE IT ORDAINED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill:

 

                           SECTION I

 

That Section 21‑27 of the Town Code of Ordinances, "No parking as to particular streets" is amended by inserting the following therein in appropriate alphabetical order:

 

Street             Side      From               To

Brookstone Drive   West      The center of      The south

                             Homestead Road     end of the

                                                street

 

Brookstone Drive   East      The center of      A point 150

                             Homestead Road     feet south

 

                          SECTION II

 

These ordinances shall be effective on Monday, October 1, 1990.

 

                          SECTION III

 

All ordinances and portions of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed.

 

This the 10th day of September, 1990.

 

 

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND "THE ORDINANCE CONCERNING APPROPRIATIONS AND THE RAISING OF REVENUE FOR THE FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING JULY 1, 1990 (90‑9‑10/0‑5)

 

BE IT ORDAINED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill that the Budget Ordinance entitled "An Ordinance Concerning Appropriations and the Raising of Revenue for the Fiscal Year Beginning July 1, 1990", an adopted on June 11, 1990, being the same is hereby amended as follows:


 

                           ARTICLE I

 

                        Current                      Revised

APPROPRIATIONS          Budget   Increase   Decrease   Budget

 

GENERAL FUND

  Transfer to Capital

  Improvement Fund         0     $  7,000            $  7,000

 

CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS

FUND                   $497,542    7,000              504,542

 

 

                          ARTICLE II

 

                        Current                      Revised

REVENUES                Budget   Increase   Decrease   Budget

 

GENERAL FUND

  Fund Balance         $700,000  $  7,000            $707,000

 

CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS

FUND

  Transfer from

  General Fund             0        7,000                7,000

 

This the 10th day of September, 1990.

 

 

AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 14‑86 OF THE TOWN CODE OF ORDINANCES

(90‑9-10/O-6)

 

BE IT ORDAINED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill that the following paragraph be added to Section 14‑86 of the Code of Ordinances as a second paragraph:

 

In a State or national emergency in which national guard members or military reservists are called to active duty, if a reservist or guard member is called to active duty, and if the salary from military pay is less than the salary from the Town, the Town shall pay an amount equal to the difference in pay for a period of six months.

 

This the 10th day of September, 1990.

 

Council Member Rimer expressed concern that imposing "no parking" restrictions on North Street would take away approximately thirty spaces. Council Member Herzenberg noted that parking in the area was mainly by area residents who have on‑street parking permits.

 

COUNCIL MEMBER RIMER MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER HERZENBERG, TO ADOPT ORDINANCE 4. THE ORDINANCE WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (9‑0).

 

 

AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 21 0 THE CODE OF ORDINANCES (90‑9‑10/0‑4)

 

BE IT ORDAINED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill:

 

                           Section I

 

That section 21‑27 of the Town Code of Ordinances, "No parking as to particular streets" is amended by deleting the following:

 

STREET        SIDE      FROM               TO

 

North St.     South     Columbia Street    A point 136 feet east

                                           of the western curb line of Columbia Street

 

                          Section II

 

That section 21‑27 of the Town Code of Ordinances, "No parking as to particular Streets" is amended by inserting the following therein in appropriate alphabetical order:

 

STREET        SIDE      FROM               TO

 

North Street  South     Columbia Street    A point 250 feet east

                        (NC 86)            of the center of Columbia Street

                                           (NC 86).

 

North Street  South     Henderson Street   A point 130 feet west

                                           of the center of Henderson Street.

 

                          Section III

 

That section 21‑27.1 of the Town Code of Ordinances "No parking during certain hours" item (c) is amended by inserting the following therein in appropriate alphabetical order:

 

          (c) 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday ‑ Friday

 

 

STREET        SIDE      FROM               TO

 

North Street  South     A point 130 feet   A point 250 feet

                        west of Henderson  east of Columbia

                        Street.            Street.

 

 

                          Section IV

 

These ordinances shall be effective on Monday October 15, 1990.

 

                           Section V

 

Ali ordinances and portions of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed.

 

This the 10th day of September, 1990.

 

 

COUNCIL MEMBER WALLACE MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER WALLACE, TO ADJOURN THE COUNCIL MEETING. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (9‑0).

 

There was no need for an Executive Session.

 

The meeting stood adjourned at 11:16 p.m.