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.