SUMMARY MINUTES OF A REGULAR BUSINESS MEETING
OF THE CHAPEL HILL TOWN COUNCIL
MONDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2000, AT 7:00 P.M.
Mayor Rosemary Waldorf called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Council members present were Flicka Bateman, Pat Evans, Kevin Foy, Lee Pavăo, Bill Strom, Jim Ward, and Edith Wiggins. Council Member Joyce Brown was absent, excused.
Staff members present were Town Manager Cal Horton, Assistant Town Managers Sonna Loewenthal and Florentine Miller, Town Attorney Ralph Karpinos, Assistant to the Manager Bill Stockard, Traffic Engineer Kumar Neppalli, Engineering Director George Small, Finance Director Jim Baker, Information Technology Manager Bob Avery, Planning Director Roger Waldon, Long Range Planning Coordinator Chris Berndt, Administrative Analyst Randy Ballard, Assistant Finance Director Kay Johnson, Public Works Director Bruce Heflin, Field Operations Superintendent Richard Terrell, Library Director Kathy Thompson, and Town Clerk Joyce Smith.
Item 1 – Ceremonies (none)
Item 2 – Public Hearings
2a. Request for Continuation of Public Hearings for Chapel Ridge Conditional Use Zoning and Special Use Permit Application.
COUNCIL MEMBER WIGGINS MOVED, SECONDED BY MAYOR PRO TEM PAVĂO, TO ADOPT RESOLUTION 0.1. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (8-0).
A RESOLUTION CONTINUING THE PUBLIC HEARINGS FOR A REZONING AND A SPECIAL USE PERMIT APPLICATION FOR CHAPEL RIDGE (2000-10-23/R-0.1)
WHEREAS, the Town has received and opened Public Hearings for consideration of a rezoning application and a Special Use Permit application for the proposed Chapel Ridge development, and;
WHEREAS, the applicant has requested additional time to consider the requests of the Town Council;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill that the Council hereby approves the request for continuation of the rezoning and the Special Use Permit Public Hearings for the proposed Chapel Ridge development.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Public Hearings for the rezoning and Special Use Permit applications for the Chapel Ridge development are hereby reconvened and recessed to November 13, 2000.
This the 23rd day of October, 2000.
2b. Public Forum on Sidewalk and Bicycle Facilities Construction Options for 2000-2001.
Long Range Planning Coordinator Chris Berndt said there was $200,000 available for the new projects, $100,000 from the Capital Improvements Program and $100,000 from bond funds. She reported that, as requested by the Council, the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Board reported on September 11, 2000, to the Council, and the staff was following up on that report this evening, by proposing options for priorities for the sidewalk and bicycle facilities. Ms. Berndt added that the report included the status of the current projects already underway. She pointed out the options:
· Option 1—Current System.
· Option 2—Option 1 with 2 changes to include Citizens Requests and Missing Links.
· Option 3—Option 2 with 3 changes to include Speed Limits.
· Option 4—Recommendations of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Board.
Ms. Berndt said there were two recommendations before the Council:
Tom Kern spoke in favor of Options 1 or 2, and his request was for sidewalks from Henderson Street to Pickett Lane.
Council Member Evans suggested that petitions could be signed by parishioners of Mr. Kern’s church to put greater emphasis on the request. She stated that some of the sidewalks he was describing were to be filled in by the Fraternities nearby.
Wes Everett, owner of the house at 210 Ransom Street, across from a fraternity parking lot, said he had submitted a petition in opposition to the sidewalk project on Ransom Street, and he asked if the Town was planning to put in a sidewalk on that street, and if it would be put on the east side. He said a sidewalk in front of his house would diminish the privacy of his tenants and encroach on the parking spaces on his property. Mr. Everett said the spreadsheets in the memorandum were inaccurate regarding a path on the west side of the street, because there was no path in front of his house.
Richard Wolfenden spoke about Mason Farm Road, commenting that it was winding and narrow, but it was used as a cut-off from the bypass to the hospital and that the posted 25-mile per hour speed limit was regularly ignored. He said the neighborhood petitioners wanted a sidewalk/bikepath to be a high priority and they were willing to contribute toward the cost of building it.
Loren Hintz said he was speaking for himself, his family, and some friends, and said he thought the rankings of sidewalks should also reflect nearness to schools, installing missing links, suggestions from all the different advisory boards, making intersections safer, and connecting to bus stops. He urged connecting and funding several bikeways. Mr. Hintz urged that the funds be used for sidewalks which the DOT would not be funding for several years and he urged planting of trees to make the areas more pleasant.
Denise Hallfors spoke in support of sidewalks on Seawell School Road, since there were several schools in the area, and there were no sidewalks for the children to walk to school. She said there was a lot of speeding traffic on the road, and people who wanted to walk on the pathways and bikeways off the road had to walk on the road to get there.
Dorothy Verkerk commented that there was not one road on the list that wasn’t worthy of being there. She said that many people voted with their feet by cutting paths along boulevards and roads that do not have sidewalks, but they often are not those who appeal to the Town and the Council for sidewalks. Ms. Verkerk said as a member of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Board she had listened to many people’s appeals for sidewalks, and she was also in favor of the tier system.
Eva Metzger said she had concerns about gaps in the system, safety, citizens’ requests, and funding.
Blair Pollock, former member of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Board, commented on the sidewalk rankings and pedestrian and bike policy. He said he essentially supported the recommendations of the Advisory Board. Mr. Pollock said he was concerned about the delays of restriping of crosswalks when a road was resurfaced, also certain heavily trafficked intersections were not striped. He commented on the plan for a meandering sidewalk along Weaver Dairy Road, saying most people wanted to get from one point to another without meandering.
Council Member Evans said that reports from reviews by the Transportation Board and the Planning Board were not included, and she suggested that their review be requested. She said there was a high level of pedestrian traffic in the downtown, and asked about the missing segments on Henderson Street and Church Street. Council Member Evans asked how citizen opposition to a sidewalk factored into the decision. She pointed out that certain streets were mentioned on Option 1 but not on Option 2. Council Member Evans raised the issue of striping replacement when a street was resurfaced, and hoped it would be done quickly after future resurfacing.
Council Member Foy asked for comment on the possibility of contribution or assessment. Mr. Karpinos said there was a process whereby a group of neighbors could petition the Council and the Council could consider whether to accept the petition regarding contributions to the pavement, and that could give the project a higher priority. He said this was just another factor that the Council could consider in deliberation.
Council Member Foy asked if that was similar to a road policy. Mr. Karpinos said it was the same process.
Mayor Waldorf asked if there was anything in the sidewalk policy that suggested, if a group of neighbors wanted to contribute funds for the sidewalk, it would move the project up on the priority list. Mr. Horton said there was nothing in the policy, but if the Council wished to promote that idea as an option, it could be done.
Council Member Foy said the Town should be willing to accept contributions if people were willing to contribute funds for sidewalks, and he would like this to be part of the future consideration because it would enable the Town to build sidewalks more quickly. Mr. Horton added that the Town had been able to take the contributions into consideration when citizens were interested in getting streets paved, but there have not been many cases such as this.
Council Member Strom said the issue was complex and the Town did not have enough money to build the sidewalks that were needed. He asked the staff to propose a really massive funding effort to address this need. Council Member Strom asked that the options include spreading the funds around for the next year, and looking comprehensively at the neighborhoods, as suggested by the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Board.
Mayor Waldorf pointed out that the Town was programmed to spend $755,200 on sidewalks, which included Town, State and federal money. She said she had had a suggestion from a citizen, Ed Harrison, that the Council consider spending $30,000 of the bike program money for bike racks to leverage other State and federal dollars.
Council Member Bateman asked if any thought had ever been given to adopting an ordinance that said that pedestrians had the right-of-way at intersections. Mr. Karpinos said it was State law. Council Member Bateman felt the law should be enforced.
Council Member Ward said the tool for deciding the priority of each project needed to be refined. He said he would like to see the tool refined before the Council made any decision.
Council Member Evans said that headway was being made on the money, that when she, Mayor Waldorf, and Mayor pro tem Pavăo were elected to the Council the money for sidewalks was $10,000 for the year.
Council Member Foy said he felt the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Board’s recommendations needed to be taken into consideration and that they were more subjective, and were a better way to go.
Council Member Wiggins said she had seen people walking on the streets beside the sidewalks, despite the efforts of the Town to provide sidewalks for pedestrian use.
Mayor Waldorf raised the question of a missing link on Curtis Road, and said that for years children had used a cut-through path to the school. She wondered if that link was a good way to use sidewalk dollars, and should not be a high priority.
Council Member Ward said he would like the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Board to be involved in further discussion of the options and the issues together with the staff. He did not want the Advisory Board to feel they were wasting their time in their recommendations. Mr. Horton said the present attempt at ranking were developed with the assistance of the Transportation Board and input from the Council. He said the staff would appreciate any suggestions, but that the Council was going to have a hard choice. He said the staff had tried to stick with the ranking system adopted by the Council.
COUNCIL MEMBER FOY MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER STROM, TO REFER THESE COMMENTS TO THE MANAGER AND THAT THE COMMENTS BY THE COUNCIL AND THE CITIZENS BE TAKEN INTO CONSIDERATION, AND THE FINAL RECOMMENDATION BE PRESENTED TO THE COUNCIL ON NOVEMBER 13, 2000.
Council Member Ward wondered what could be done about changing the tool for ranking. Mr. Horton said the Council could ask the Transportation Board and the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Board to work together to come up with a single ranking system.
THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (8-0).
COUNCIL MEMBER WARD MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER FOY, TO REFER THE RANKING SYSTEM TO THE TRANSPORTATION BOARD AND THE BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN ADVISORY BOARD. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (8-0).
Item 3 – Petitions by Citizens and Announcements by Council Members
3b. 1. Elizabeth Thompson regarding request for Reconsideration of Petition from June 12 requesting removal of stop sign at Kenmore Road at the intersection with Saddle Ridge and Bridle Run.
COUNCIL MEMBER WARD MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER FOY, TO RECEIVE AND REFER THE PETITION TO THE MANAGER. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (8-0).
3b. 2. Jan Symonds and Dorothy Zehnal regarding parking of diesel trucks on private property.
COUNCIL MEMBER EVANS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER WARD, TO RECEIVE AND REFER THE PETITION TO THE MANAGER. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (8-0).
3b. 3. Craig Davis requesting a change in a sign ordinance in Meadowmont Village.
Craig Davis, Craig Davis Properties, requested a change in the sign ordinance for a Mixed Use R-1 Zoning District in order to permit two development identification signs with two messages on each sign—one for the name of the project, Meadowmont Village Center, and the anchor tenant, Harris Teeter. He also requested a permit to allow the project street banners to be attached to light poles around the Village Center, adding that the banners would add a festive atmosphere to the pedestrian streetscape.
COUNCIL MEMBER PAVĂO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER EVANS, TO RECEIVE AND REFER THE PETITION TO THE MANAGER. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (8-0).
3b. 4. Pines Community Center requesting a grant of $20,000.
COUNCIL MEMBER STROM MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER WARD, TO RECEIVE AND REFER THE PETITION TO THE MANAGER. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (8-0).
3b. 5. Betsy Pringle on behalf of the Historic District Commission regarding an application to the Department of Archives and History for a grant.
Tom Heafner, member of the Historic District Commission, presented a petition from the Historic District Commission for the Town to sponsor an application to the Department of Archives and History for a grant to update the existing architectural survey and expand it to cover the Town and the old part of the University. He said the Commission was asking the Town for $5,000 in matching funds that would be accompanied by $15,000 in funds from the Chapel Hill Preservation Society to seek a grant of $20,000 from the State. Mr. Heafner reported that the Preservation Society had agreed to cover any budget over-runs on the project. He said the survey would be done by a professional consultant supervised by the Department of Archives and History; that there would be a minimum of staff time involved; and that the Society would work with the neighborhoods, making sure the residents understood the survey project. Mr. Heafner said the deadline for application was December 31, 2000, but the Society would not need the funds from the Town until next fiscal year.
COUNCIL MEMBER PAVĂO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER STROM, TO RECEIVE AND REFER THE PETITION TO THE MANAGER. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (8-0).
3b. 6. Loren Hintz, Chair of the Transportation Board, regarding request to delay consideration of Cameron Avenue changes.
Mr. Hintz said at the Board’s last meeting, the members had learned of some decisions made by the Town regarding transportation which did not include input from the Board, or arrived too late to the members for consideration. The Board requested that, related to their duties as outlined by the Town, information regarding public transportation, traffic impact, transportation improvement plans, plans and policies for cycling and bikeway facilities, issues related to pedestrian access and safety, parking facilities, and other transportation matters, be sent to the Board. He thanked the Council and the Clerk for advice regarding these matters. Mr. Hintz said that the information from the advisory boards and their overlapping responsibilities could be helpful to the Town.
COUNCIL MEMBER WARD MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER EVANS, TO RECEIVE AND REFER THE PETITION TO THE MANAGER. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (8-0).
Council Member Wiggins asked that the report include information regarding the charges of the Transportation Board and the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Board and their differing recommendations. Mr. Horton said that would be appropriate for discussion.
3b. 7. Mr. Mark Moore, Performance Automotive Company regarding permission for sign addition.
COUNCIL MEMBER PAVĂO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER EVANS, TO RECEIVE AND REFER THIS PETITION TO THE MANAGER. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (8-0).
Deborah Barrett, resident of Pennick Lane, submitted a petition to increase the accessibility for pedestrians on that lane, by either paving the road or installing a sidewalk to make it safer for pedestrians and bikers. She noted that the neighbors did not want any trees cut or the road widened. She said she presented this petition, both for her neighbors as well as herself, because she suffered from a disability which made it difficult for her to walk.
COUNCIL MEMBER EVANS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER PAVĂO, TO RECEIVE AND REFER THIS PETITION TO THE MANAGER. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (8-0).
3c. Announcements by Council Members.
Mayor Waldorf said there had been improvements in the technology at the intersection of Franklin Street and Columbia Street. Mr. Horton explained that the State wished to emphasize pedestrian safety and had chosen some key intersections throughout the State for technical improvements, and one was the Chapel Hill intersection at Franklin and Columbia Streets. He said the red signal has been replaced and was much brighter and the pedestrian signals were replaced with “countdown” signals, warning when ten seconds remained for crossing. He said lights were to be installed on the pedestrian buttons, indicating that the activation had been received.
Item 4 – Consent Agenda: Action Items
Council Member Pavăo referred Item 4b. to the Planning Board and the Transportation Board.
Council Member Strom removed 4a.
Council Member Bateman said she felt the recent gift to the Library should be publicly acknowledged. Library Director Kathy Thompson reported that Dr. Robert Frey, Carolina Meadows resident, donated a gift of $175,000 honoring his late wife, Barbara Holbrook Frey, to be used for new equipment or for expansion of the library facility.
Council Member Bateman requested a language change in the Resolution to the first “Be It Resolved” to read “formally accepts and thanks Dr. Frey for his gift…”
Richard Golberg, UNC student, spoke in reference to Item 4b and said he wanted to emphasize the importance of bike safety on Cameron Avenue and that the bike lanes were very important. He disagreed with the Manager’s suggestions in the report calling for the removal of the center turn lane, but maintaining the on-street parking at all times of the day. He said it was very dangerous for bicyclists to ride on a road with parked cars on the side, because of the possibility of a bicyclist being struck by an opening car door. He said the bicyclists were forced to ride in the traffic lane and this was very dangerous. He urged the Council to remove permission for parked cars from Cameron Avenue, for the safety of the many bicyclists riding to and from the University.
Council Member Evans requested information on turning movements on Graham, Roberson, and Cameron Court in order for the Council to make a decision.
Council Member Ward commented on 4e and asked if the staff expected to take the matching grant of $6,176 from the Police Department. Mr. Horton said that was correct.
MAYOR PRO TEM PAVĂO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER EVANS, TO ADOPT RESOLUTION 1, WITH 4A AND 4B REMOVED, AND 4G AMENDED.
Council Member Strom added a “friendly” amendment to send Item 4b to the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Board as well as the other boards listed.
Mayor pro tem Pavăo accepted the amendment.
THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (8-0).
A RESOLUTION ADOPTING VARIOUS RESOLUTIONS AND ORDINANCES
(2000-10-23/R-1)
BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill that the Council hereby adopts the following minutes, resolutions and ordinances as submitted by the Town Manager in regard to the following:
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c. |
Right-of-Way and Easements on Town-Owned Land for U.S. 15-501 (South) Improvement Project (R-3). |
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d. |
Extension of Period for Review of a Cablevision Basic Rate Proposal Cable Consultants (R-4). |
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e. |
Deleted. |
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f. |
Correction to Code of Ordinances: Dogs on Leashes Within Parks, Greenways, and Open Spaces (O-3). |
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g. |
Library Gift Acceptance (R-6). |
This the 23rd day of October, 2000.
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE TOWN MANAGER TO EXECUTE DOCUMENTS FOR TRANSFER OF PORTIONS OF TOWN-OWNED PROPERTIES ADJACENT TO THE ROUTE U.S. 15-501 TO THE NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, TO DUKE POWER COMPANY AND RELATED JOINT-USE UTILITIES AS APPROPRIATE, AND TO CAROLINA POWER AND LIGHT FOR RIGHTS-OF-WAY AND EASEMENTS NECESSARY TO CONSTRUCT ROADWAY AND ASSOCIATED IMPROVEMENTS (2000-10-23/R-3)
WHEREAS, the Town of Chapel Hill and the North Carolina Department of Transportation have agreed upon and funded a roadway improvement project for route U.S. 15-501 south of Town; and
WHEREAS, certain rights-of-way and easements must be acquired by the North Carolina Department of Transportation, by Duke Power company and associated joint-use utilities, and by Carolina Power and Light to accommodate the roadway and associated improvements; and
WHEREAS, the Town owns certain parcels of land adjacent to the improvement corridor upon which said rights-of-way and easements are necessary; and
WHEREAS, the Town does not expect to receive compensation for said rights-of-way and easements since the U.S. 15-501 Improvement Project was requested by the Town.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill that the Manager is herewith authorized to execute documents for transfer of portions of Town-owned properties adjacent to U.S. 15-501 to the North Carolina Department of Transportation, to Duke Power Company and related joint-use utilities as appropriate, and to Carolina Power and Light for rights-of-way and easements necessary to construct roadway and associated improvements.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Council reserves the right of the Town or its agents to enter upon said rights-of-way and easements as may be necessary for construction and/or maintenance of Town facilities.
This is the 23rd day of October, 2000.
A RESOLUTION EXTENDING THE CABLEVISION BASIC RATE REVIEW PERIOD DEADLINE TO JANUARY 31, 2001 (2000-10-23/R-4)
WHEREAS, on October 3, 2000, Time Warner Cable submitted an FCC-1240 Updating Maximum Permitted Rates filing for Regulated Cable Service with the Town, Time Warner Cable’s filing includes estimates for external costs, and costs associated with system upgrades it may incur during the period of January 1, 2001 through December 31, 2001, along with previous external costs from the “true up” period of January 1, 2000 through December 31, 2000 and Cable Network Upgrade expenses; and
WHEREAS, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has established rate-filing procedures that allow cable operators to estimate future external costs and costs associated with system upgrades, and to recover those projected costs by using the FCC-1240 filing process, which is performed annually; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Chapel Hill is authorized by the FCC to regulate basic cable service rates and services within the Town, and the FCC has assigned the Town with the responsibility of verifying that all elements of the Social Contract are fulfilled by the cable operator as they pertain to the Town; and
WHEREAS, the FCC allows cable franchise authorities the ability to toll the time in which to review rate filings submitted by cable operators, extending the period of review from the initial 30 days to an additional 90 days (120 days total) past the original October 3 date of receipt by the franchise authority; and
WHEREAS, the Town contracts with a consultant to review these rates and the proper FCC forms to determine if the cablevision company’s Basic Tier rates are reasonable; and
WHEREAS, the consultant will require time to review the rate filings as provided by Time Warner;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill that the time period in which the Town has to review Time Warner Cable’s FCC-1240 rate filing is tolled 90 days past the original 30 days (120 days total) allowed by the FCC, extending the total review period deadline to January 31, 2001.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Time Warner is directed to maintain a complete and accurate accounting of all costs and revenues associated with the aforementioned FCC-1240 filing.
This the 23rd day of October, 2000.
AN ORDINANCE REQUIRING DOGS BROUGHT WITHIN TOWN PARKS, GREENWAYS, AND OPEN SPACE BE RESTRAINED BY A 6 FOOT OR SHORTER LEASH (2000-10-23/O-3)
BE IT ORDAINED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill as follows:
Section 1. Section 12-3, paragraph (k) of the Town Code is hereby revised by adding a new subparagraph 3 to read as follows:
“(3) Dogs brought within parks, open space, and greenways must be restrained at all times by a leash that is no longer than six feet in length.”
Section 2. This Ordinance shall be effective November 1, 2000.
This the 23rd day of October, 2000.
A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING DR. ROBERT FREY’S GIFT TO THE CHAPEL HILL PUBLIC LIBRARY IN THE AMOUNT OF $175,000, AUTHORIZING THE MANAGER TO ESTABLISH A LIBRARY GIFT FUND ENDOWMENT IN THE NAME OF THE LATE BARBARA HOLBROOK FREY, AND ACKNOWLEDGING THE GIFT OF GENEROSITY TO THE COMMUNITY (2000-10-23/R-6)
WHEREAS, Dr. Robert Frey has donated $175,000 to the Chapel Hill Public Library; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Frey has requested that the money be placed in the Town’s Library Gift Fund in an endowment in the name of his wife, the late Barbara Holbrook Frey; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Frey has specified that the money should be used to purchase new equipment or to expand the facility;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Council formally accepts and thanks Dr. Frey for his gift of $175,000 and authorizes the Manager to establish a library gift fund endowment in the name of the late Barbara Holbrook Frey.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill that the Council acknowledges this most generous gift on behalf of the citizens of Chapel Hill and the patrons of the Chapel Hill Public Library.
This the 23rd day of October, 2000.
Item 5 – Information Items
Council Member Foy complimented the staff on the work it was doing on the Retail Shuttle Buses to run between the malls and the downtown during the Holiday Season.
Item 6 – Status Report on Proposed Technology Plan
for the Town of Chapel Hill
Mr. Horton applauded the efforts of the staff in this undertaking and the excellent leadership of William Groves and the other volunteers on the Committee.
William Groves, Chair of the Citizens’ Technology Committee, read an introductory statement summarizing the chartering of the Citizens’ Technology Committee (CTC), made up of eight citizens, eight staff members, and one Council liaison. One year ago, he stated, the Committee began the development of a strategic plan to help guide the Town in its technology implementation and the recommendations were listed in the Report presented to the Council this evening.
Recommendations:
1. Network Infrastructure
· Adopt replacement cycle for servers and establish centralized funding to support it.
· Increase wide area networking speed.
· Conduct engineering evaluation to determine proper electrical power supply and backup support requirements for centralized in-house computer equipment.
· Adopt database standard for major systems.
· Join with neighboring communities and governmental/educational entities to explore options for high speed networking services for both business and residential customers.
2. Web Site Development
· Centralize Web-site management.
· Provide standards for information software and hardware, and train personnel to keep site up-to-date efficiently.
· Obtain outside expertise to develop integrated, easily managed and easily accessed site.
· Provide for telephone or other technologies that will provide access to citizens who do not have easy Web access.
· Evaluate expansion of electronic services including licensing, class sign-ups, development proposals, and fee collections
3. Library
· Traditional library services must expand to include new technology.
· Needs to include additional network bandwidth, full-time on-site technology coordinator, dynamic Web site, training room, and subscriptions to variety f electronic publications and databases.
4. Geographic Information System (GIS)
· Network improvement should be made so GIS is available to all staff to identify locations, facilities and parcels. Town can develop its own GIS Internet site or link to Orange County site.
· Hire programmer/analyst for advanced GIS applications
5. Records Management
· Develop Document Management Program for processing, filing, and storing all Town documents.
· Determine how best to engage available resources to implement findings of structured process identified above.
6. Radio Communications
· Current radio communications system used by the Town has several problems:
Ř Different public service groups have difficulty communicating with each other
Ř System often fails
Ř Obtaining parts to repair the system is becoming increasingly difficult.
· An 800 –MHz radio system is needed for all Town and County Emergency units. Town should plan for prompt implementation of countywide 800-MHz trunking radio system for voice communications.
7. Information Technology Group (ITG)
· Establish cross-department planning team and budgeting process.
· Remove ITG from Finance Department and have ITG report to Town management.
· ITG needs additional positions to meet needs for (1) helpdesk and training; (2) network and server technology support; (3) programming for Web-based services; (4) clerical support; and (5) communications technology support.
· To provide budgetary accountability, ITG should function as cost center and charge user departments for services.
· To expedite system changes and contain cost, ITG should contract with outside vendors for new services.
Council Member Foy complimented the Committee on how it worked together and the work that went into the report. He said he thought the most important component of the Report was Item H, Information Technology Group, and that it should be on a managerial level authority working interdepartmentally to impose standards and ensure that as the Town’s information needs grow it will continue to put everything together.
Mayor pro tem Pavăo congratulated the group for its work.
MAYOR PRO TEM PAVĂO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER EVANS, TO ADOPT RESOLUTION 7.
Council Member Wiggins said she also congratulated the group and said the most important component of the Report was Number 7, and in order to fund this there was going to have to be major reallocation of funds from each department.
Mayor Waldorf suggested having a work session scheduled with the staff either in December or at the January Retreat. She said that Mr. Grove had stated that some budgetary recommendations would be forthcoming and they could be considered.
Council Member Strom said he would not like to see putting off until January the consideration of policy and budgetary issues.
Council Member Foy said the Glossary was very helpful.
Council Member Bateman said that the school system had moved to the concept of a Chief Technology Officer.
Council Member Strom said he hoped the Report would be posted on the Town website.
THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (8-0).
A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING AND REFERRING THE TECHNOLOGY COMMITTEE REPORT AND EXPRESSING THANKS TO THE COMMITTEE (2000-10-23/R-7)
WHEREAS, the Council created the Town’s Technology Committee on January 23, 1998, to assist Town staff in considering areas of communication and technology needs; and,
WHEREAS, one of the missions of the Technology Committee was to develop short and long range plans for addressing the Town’s technology and present a report to the Council; and,
WHEREAS, the Technology Committee has completed and presented its report;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill that the Council accepts the report of the Technology Committee and expresses its gratitude to the members of the Committee for their hard work in furthering technological development in the Town and for their service to our community.
This the 23rd day of October, 2000.
Mayor Waldorf thanked all who had worked on the Report.
Item 7 – Review of Submissions and Recommendations for Selection
in Northeast Gateway Design Competition
Planning Director Roger Waldon reported that in June the Council authorized the sponsoring of a Design Competition for the Northeast Gateway area (the 15-501 and I-40 area), and in August approved a Program Statement to be given to participants describing the Town’s intent and expectations in designs for this area. He noted that there were 60 inquiries and initial registrations, 49 registrants and six submitted entries. Mr. Waldon reported that there were brief description, color renderings, and comments by the jury included in the memorandum to the Council, and there was an Open House for public viewing. He said the entry chosen was #144, selected in a “blind” judging. Comments were included in the packet, he reported, explaining how and why entry #144 had been the entry chosen. Mr. Waldon said the resolution before the Council this evening would:
· Select Entry #144,
· Ask the site design author to prepare one additional drawing,
· Ask the Manager to prepare a draft statement articulating the design goals for the properties at the Northeast Gateway location that the Council could consider, and
· Commend all six entrants.
COUNCIL MEMBER FOY MOVED, SECONDED BY MAYOR PRO TEM PAVĂO, TO ADOPT RESOLUTION 7.1.
Mayor pro tem Pavăo said entry #128 was his favorite entry.
Council Member Bateman asked Mr. Waldon to post the winning entry on the overhead.
Peter Bachelor, competition advisor, Professor of Urban Design at the School of Design at North Carolina State University, complimented the Council for what it had taken as a visionary concern for the use of the particular property at the Northeast Gateway.
Council Member Foy asked Professor Bachelor and Mr. Waldon to make brief comments on all of the entries. Professor Bachelor deferred to Mr. Waldon but commented that all six entries had excellent concepts, and could all be used at some time in the future. Mr. Waldon commented on all of the individual entries. He encouraged the Council to look at the designs still being displayed in the Conference Room.
Council Member Strom thanked all who had participated, and said he found some of the features in Entry #109 appealing, and hoped some of the features might be incorporated in the Statement which would come back to the Council: open space of reserved land on the west of 15-501; and true integration of uses in the compact area. He said he would like it introduced on a pedestrian scale.
Council Member Ward said he liked the greenspace and the Town should look into how that natural area could be protected.
THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (8-0).
A RESOLUTION SELECTING A WINNING ENTRY AND ALTERNATE IN THE NORTHEAST GATEWAY COMPETITION, AND DIRECTING THE TOWN MANAGER TO PREPARE A DRAFT STATEMENT OF DESIGN OBJECTIVES (2000-10-23/R-7.1)
WHEREAS, the Chapel Hill Town Council has initiated a Design Competition, as described in a memorandum dated June 26, 2000; and
WHEREAS, the Council has received a recommendation from a Competition Jury and considered this recommendation along with public comments on the entries;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill that the Town Council selects Entry #144 as the winning entry in this competition, and requests that the designer of Entry #144 prepare an additional drawing in exchange for a $5,000 award.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Council asks that the additional drawing include attention to the following points:
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Town Council asks the Town Manager to prepare a draft statement articulating design goals for the development of properties at the Northeast Gateway location. This draft statement should draw upon the design features contained in the winning entry, plus individual ideas from other entries that are desirable, plus policy statements contained in the new Comprehensive Plan. The Council asks the Manager to bring this draft statement to the Council for consideration during November 2000.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Town Council commends all six entrants for excellent and creative work in preparing site designs for this set of properties, and expresses its deep appreciation for the contribution of these designers in promoting the community dialogue about possibilities for development in this key part of Chapel Hill.
This the 23rd day of October, 2000.
Mayor pro tem Pavăo announced the participants:
· #109—R James Cox, Jr., Booker Creek Road, Chapel Hill
· #120—Sam Reynolds, Reynolds and Jewell, Raleigh
· #127—Randy Lanou, Durham
· #128—Charles Holden, RAGS, Dexter Place, Raleigh
· #138—Dale Croker / Isthmus Ent., P.A., Fountain Ridge, Chapel Hill
· #144—Duda Paine Architect, LLP Brightleaf Square, Durham—Jeff Paine, the winning entry.
The participants present introduced themselves and Mayor Waldorf thanked them for participating.
Item 8 – Proposed Weaver Dairy Road Improvements
Engineering Director George Small said that at an April Citizens Informational Workshop at Carol Woods Retirement Center, the representatives from the State presented two Alternatives: a five-lane cross section with curb-and-gutter, and a four-lane divided section with curb-and-gutter. He reported that at a subsequent meeting the Council requested more alternatives. Mr. Small said the NCDOT offered more alternatives: four-lane cross section without a median with a center turn lane, three-lane cross section with center turn lane, and a final option of no change. He reported that all of the options included bike lanes and sidewalks. Mr. Small said the tables in the memorandum provided a summary of the projects, and included some of the costs. He pointed out capacity considerations. Mr. Small stated if the Council decided to hold a Public Forum he had some large maps provided by the NCDOT which could be put on display. He said the State would take into consideration any recommendation from the Council regarding options, and the staff recommended adoption of Resolution 8, scheduling a public forum to discuss the proposed improvement alternatives for Weaver Dairy Road.
Mayor Waldorf asked if the Council wanted a public forum scheduled for 7:00 p.m., or did the Council think it would be better to schedule an information session in the afternoon for the public. Mr. Horton suggested an information session before the public forum, either Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday of the week prior to the public forum schedule date of November 20, 2000.
Mayor Waldorf said it was important to allow citizens to hear information at a work session, and to comment or ask questions before the public forum. Mr. Horton said that an information session could be scheduled during the week before November 20, 2000, which would be the date of the public forum.
Mayor Waldorf suggested publicizing the information about the meetings through East Chapel Hill High School for the students to disseminate the information. Mr. Small said there was a comprehensive mailing list for people who lived in the corridor, information would be advertised in the paper, and a flyer would be distributed for the students to take home.
Council Member Evans asked that the existing traffic numbers and a comparison with another road in Chapel Hill, including the generation of traffic for VilCom, and the build-out of Timberlyne, be included in the information packet. She also wanted the information to be referred to the Transportation Board and the Planning Board and they should be invited to the workshop. Mr. Horton said the information would be distributed immediately to both Boards. He commented that he was not sure the schools would be willing to distribute the flyers to the students, but the staff would try.
Mr. Small said the closest thing to envision how a three-lane road would appear would be Merritt Mill Road. He said the section of Weaver Dairy Road in front of Chesley was five lanes, and there was a bike lane in front of Silver Creek. He said NC 86 was an example of a five-lane road.
Mayor Waldorf said the future of Weaver Dairy Road Extension and what it might become in several years should be taken into consideration.
Council Member Bateman asked Mr. Small to comment on the proposed realignment from Weaver Dairy Road to Sage Road. Mr. Small said at the curve at the wall on Silver Creek, the road would go straight ahead, cutting through some properties, until it reaches Sage Road, and the curve, presently part of Weaver Dairy Road after the wall, would become a minor road.
Council Member Ward asked how these configurations compared with the west side of Weaver Dairy Road past the fire station. Mr. Small said that was a four-lane, median-divided, and slightly smaller section than NC 86. He said the older section did not have bike lanes on it, but did have sidewalks, and, for the newer section, bike lanes and sidewalks were planned.
Council Member Ward requested the profiles of these, relative to the other alternatives.
MAYOR PRO TEM PAVĂO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER FOY, TO ADOPT RESOLUTION 8 WITH THE ADDITION THAT AN INFORMAL PUBLIC INFORMATION MEETING BE HELD PRIOR TO THE PUBLIC FORUM AND THAT ALL ADVISORY BOARDS BE INVITED TO COMMENT. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (8-0).
A RESOLUTION SCHEDULING A PUBLIC FORUM TO DISCUSS PROPOSED IMPROVEMENT ALTERNATIVES FOR WEAVER DAIRY ROAD (2000-10-23/R-8)
WHEREAS, the Chapel Hill Town Council has expressed interest for several years in having the State improve Weaver Dairy Road between NC 86 and Erwin Road; and
WHEREAS, the Council has requested that the State study several improvement alternatives for Weaver Dairy Road; and
WHEREAS, the State has studied the alternatives and has prepared preliminary information for the Council’s consideration; and
WHEREAS, the Council wishes to discuss the alternatives and receive citizens’ comments before selecting improvements with which it wishes to proceed;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill that the Council will hold a public forum on Monday, November 20, 2000, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber at Town Hall to receive citizen comments and to discuss improvement alternatives for Weaver Dairy Road.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that an informal information meeting will be held prior to the public forum and that all advisory boards will be invited to comment.
This is the 23rd day of October, 2000.
Item 9 – Proposed Improvements at the
US 15-501/Erwin Road/Europa Drive Intersection
Mr. Small reminded the Council that the Town had been working with the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) for several years to try to reduce congestion and improve traffic safety at the US 15-501/Erwin Road/Europa Drive intersection, and that some improvements had been made. He said that the Council had asked the staff, earlier this year, to investigate the feasibility of a roundabout at this intersection, and that it had been determined that a typical roundabout would not be feasible because it would increase traffic congestion. Mr. Small reported that the Council had asked the staff to continue to study the intersection and to try to identify innovative ideas to improve the traffic management. He reported that the NCDOT did suggest a “Superstreet,” which resembles an elongated roundabout, which gives a longer turning area for left turns. Mr. Small said that as the system proceeds, with public hearings and impact and environmental studies, there would be an impact on those who did business along the road, but the experience in other states showed that the design does work. He said that he had been advised by the NCDOT that the cost estimates were significantly higher than what was shown in the $2 million plus area for both options.
Council Member Foy asked if the median planned was to be concrete, and where would the traffic lights be installed. Mr. Small said it would be grass, with good landscaping opportunities.
Council Member Foy would there be an area for pedestrians to cross. Mr. Small felt there would be an opportunity for pedestrian crossings and the median would be a refuge area. He pointed out where the traffic signals would be on the sketch, and that the traffic signals would be simplified.
Jim Dunlop, of the NCDOT, indicated on the map where the signal lights would be, and that one signal light would be taken out and replaced with two signal lights with one-half the cycle length. He said the total travel time through the intersection would be reduced by 64%, based on traffic studies for 2002.
Council Member Bateman said she was pleased that the NCDOT had decided that this intersection was a good one to experiment on, and would the intersection be re-leveled at the dip onto Erwin Road. Mr. Dunlop said, after it was determined that a traditional roundabout would not be workable, a few people had brainstormed and come up with this alternative recommendation. He said he did not know about the grading for the dip.
Council Member Ward asked how bicycles and pedestrians would get through the area. Mr. Dunlop showed the area on the map where they would be able to cross, and said that the NCDOT would have to look at options for bicycles.
Council Member Evans asked if large vehicles would have difficulty turning at one section of the median. Mr. Dunlop said for both turns the inside lane would be marked “for cars only” and one other option was to relocate the service road. He said the concept could be extended beyond to Sage Road and applied at this intersection, also.
Council Member Wiggins said she was interested in the time schedule for the interim improvements. Mr. Small said the interim improvements probably would not be done if the “Superstreet” concept was accepted, because of the expenses involved.
Mayor Waldorf said some features of the interim plan were incorporated in this new concept.
Council Member Wiggins asked how long it would take to build the “Superstreet.” Mr. Dunlop said September 2002 was the current TIP schedule, for the previous interim improvement, and more money would need to be found for the “Superstreet.”
Council Member Ward asked Mr. Dunlop to point out on the map where the traffic signals were. Mr. Dunlop pointed out the four signal lights, and said that only two signals were on each side of the road.
COUNCIL MEMBER FOY MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER WIGGINS, TO ADOPT RESOLUTION 9.
Mr. Dunlop said there was some demonstration money from the federal government, but he would not count on it, and suggested that the Town could ask its representatives about the funds.
THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (8-0).
A RESOLUTION AFFIRMING THE TOWN COUNCIL’S INTEREST IN EXPLORING COMPREHENSIVE IMPROVEMENT OPPORTUNITIES AT THE US 15-501/ERWIN ROAD/EUROPA DRIVE INTERSECTION (2000-10-23/R-9)
WHEREAS, the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill wishes to improve traffic conditions at and around the US 15-501/Erwin Road/Europa Drive intersection; and
WHEREAS, the Council has directed Town staff to work with the North Carolina Department of Transportation staff to identify potential intersection improvement opportunities; and
WHEREAS, Town and State staff have identified one improvement project of limited scope involving additional turn lanes at the intersection, and a second more comprehensive project involving a corridor improvement concept know as a Superstreet; and
WHEREAS, the Council desires to explore comprehensive improvements at this intersection;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill that the Council herewith affirms its interest in exploring comprehensive improvement opportunities, including Superstreet corridor improvements, at the US-501/Erwin Road/Europa Drive intersection.
This the 23rd day of October, 2000.
Item 10 – Status Report on Telephone Service Issues
Assistant to the Manager Bill Stockard reported on the problems citizens presented to the Council:
Problems to Be Addressed
· Service issues
· Split neighborhood and varying costs to make calls
· Inconsistent telephone number listings in local directories
Issues Being Addressed by Telephone Companies
· Service complaints.
· Directory assistance.
· Telephone Number Listings.
· Telephone Book Costs.
Key Issues
· Resolution A: Telephone Service Boundary Line Changes
· Resolution B: Extended Area Service
· Resolution C: Uniform Service Standards—result of meeting with Orange and Durham legislators
· Resolution D: Invitations to Local Competitors—result of meeting with Orange and Durham legislators
· Resolution E: Triangle J Involvement—result of meeting with Orange and Durham legislators
COUNCIL MEMBER WIGGINS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER STROM, TO ADOPT RESOLUTION 10A. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (8-0).
A RESOLUTION ASKING BELLSOUTH AND VERIZON TO STUDY THE OPTION OF REDRAWING TELEPHONE SERVICE BOUNDARY LINES IN CHAPEL HILL TO AVOID DIVIDING NEIGHBORHOODS, AND TO PROVIDE THE COUNCIL WITH FOLLOW-UP INFORMATION WITHIN 90 DAYS (2000-10-23/R-10a)
WHEREAS, residents of Chapel Hill are served by multiple telephone companies with varying boundary lines that do not align with Town limits; and
WHEREAS, these telephone service boundary lines often divide neighborhoods along the eastern portion of Chapel Hill, affecting residents in both Orange and Durham Counties; and
WHEREAS, citizens have voiced concern over the cost and confusion involved in calling neighbors who are served by a different telephone company;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill that the Council hereby asks BellSouth and Verizon to study the option of redrawing telephone service boundary lines in Chapel Hill to avoid dividing neighborhoods, and to provide the Council with follow-up information within 90 days.
This the 23rd day of October, 2000.
COUNCIL MEMBER EVANS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER WARD, TO ADOPT RESOLUTION 10B. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (8-0).
WHEREAS, residents of Chapel Hill are served by multiple telephone companies with varying calling plans; and
WHEREAS, these multiple calling plans create confusion and, at times, extra costs for Chapel Hill residents who live in both Orange and Durham counties; and
WHEREAS, citizens have voiced concern over the confusion and cost of these plans;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill that the Council hereby requests that the North Carolina Utilities Commission begin procedures to establish an Extended Area Service Plan for telephone service in Chapel Hill and Durham.
This the 23rd day of October, 2000.
COUNCIL MEMBER EVANS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER WARD TO ADOPT RESOLUTION 10C. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (8-0).
A RESOLUTION ASKING THE NORTH CAROLINA UTILITIES COMMISSION TO REQUIRE TELEPHONE SERVICE PROVIDERS TO MEET UNIFORM SERVICE STANDARDS FOR ALL CHAPEL HILL CITIZENS (2000-10-23/R-10c)
WHEREAS, residents of Chapel Hill are served by multiple telephone companies and have experienced varying calling rates and inconsistent service quality, directory assistance access, telephone number listings in local directories, and provision of telephone directories; and
WHEREAS, Chapel Hill residents deserve a more consistent, uniform standard for provision of such services;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill that the Council hereby petitions the Utilities Commission to require telephone service providers to meet uniform service standards for all Chapel Hill citizens.
This the 23rd day of October, 2000.
COUNCIL MEMBER EVANS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER WARD TO ADOPT RESOLUTION 10D. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (8-0).
WHEREAS, residents of Chapel Hill are served by multiple telephone companies with varying calling plans; and
WHEREAS, residents have expressed dissatisfaction with the service level of some of their existing telephone company choices; and
WHEREAS, the Telecommunications Act of 1996 allows for competition in provision of local telephone service; and
WHEREAS, citizens have voiced their interest in choosing their local telephone service provider;
WHEREAS, homeowners’ associations and neighborhood associations may offer the most effective methods by which area residents can organize their service demands and needs;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill that the Council hereby invites area homeowners’ associations and neighborhood associations to organize and invite other telephone companies to provide service in their communities, so as to encourage more local competition, improved service, and diversity of choices.
This the 23rd day of October, 2000.
COUNCIL MEMBER EVANS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER WARD, TO ADOPT RESOLUTION 10E. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (8-0).
WHEREAS, residents of Chapel Hill are served by multiple telephone companies with varying calling plans; and
WHEREAS, these calling plans affect residents’ abilities to call other Triangle citizens; and
WHEREAS, the Triangle J Council of Governments represents citizens from all areas of the Triangle;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill that the Council hereby requests the Triangle J Council of Governments to address telephone service problems as a regional issue.
This the 23rd day of October, 2000.
Mayor Waldorf suggested that if anyone had any ideas for creating more competition among the phone companies they should share it with the Manager.
Council Member Foy thanked the representative from BellSouth for being present at this evening’s meeting.
Council Member Ward asked if there was any way to find out what other communities had done in the past to encourage competition. Mr. Horton said there were a few companies beginning to enter the market—BTI and Quest—and the staff will continue to research other companies for possibilities.
Item 11 – Proposed Process for Identifying and Addressing Issues of
Mutual Concern for the Town and the University
Mayor Waldorf explained that the Town and the University were preparing to enter into discussion of issues of mutual interest, and she had appointed a committee to assist her in the process: Mayor pro tem Pavăo, and Council Members Foy and Strom. She said she, together with the other Council Members, would meet with a number of officials which Chancellor Moesser had appointed. Mayor Waldorf said the tentative list of issues included:
· Central Campus Master Plan
· Future of the Horace Williams Tract
· Fiscal Equity
· Transportation Services
· Housing
Mayor Waldorf said she believed that this was an important opportunity for the Town and the University to together address a number of important and lingering issues. She said the goal of these discussions was to reach fair and thoughtful resolution to those issues. Mayor Waldorf added that she would have continual communications with the Council, and frequent reports to the public for comment. She pointed out that the public was welcome to add to the list and asked that they be submitted in writing.
A memo from Council Member Joyce Brown was read into the record by Town Clerk Joyce Smith:
“To: Mayor and Town Council
From: Joyce Brown, Council Member
Subject: Proposed Process for Identifying and Addressing Issues of Mutual Concern for the Town and the University
Date: October 23, 2000
I regret that I am not able to attend the meeting tonight, because I am out of town; and, ask that you consider the following comments in my absence.
The proposed process is not consistent with my earlier understanding of what was envisioned. It appears that the process would not just be a discussion of issues and a request for more information from both parties. Instead, this is a process for a negotiated agreement aided by a facilitator where significant decisions could b made.
I object to making this a Mayor’s committee. It appears that the committee would be a Mayor’s negotiating committee, with significant discussions by a few people out of the public eye. Even though the public will get to comment on the tentative agreement, neither the public nor the whole Council will be part of the serious discussions.
It also appears that the cap on the total floor area of development on the university campus would be a bargaining chip. I believe that the floor area cap should be considered by itself, and only after more significant information has been gathered about impacts on adjacent neighborhoods and the whole community.
I also object to the idea that the issues must be dealt with in such a hurry.”
No action was taken on this matter.
Item 12 – Request from Orange County Board of Commissioners
for Council Participation in HOME Program Review Committee
COUNCIL MEMBER EVANS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER WARD, TO ADOPT RESOLUTION 11, APPOINTING COUNCIL MEMBER WIGGINS TO THE COMMITTEE. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (8-0).
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE COUNCIL’S PARTICIPATION IN THE HOME PROGRAM REVIEW COMMITTEE (2000-10-23/R-11)
WHEREAS, the Town of Chapel Hill is a member of the Orange County HOME Consortium; and
WHEREAS, the Board of County Commissioners proposes to form a HOME Program Review Committee;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill that the Council will participate in the HOME Program Review Committee.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Council Member Wiggins is appointed to serve as the Council’s representative to the HOME Program Review Committee.
This the 23rd day of October, 2000.
Item 13 – Bids for Roll Carts
Mr. Horton said the bids were competitive because of the efforts of the staff to produce competitive bids. He said it had the effect of increasing the savings to accrue over the projection period. Mr. Horton said the bid would go to OTTO Industries, Inc., if the Council adopted Resolution A. He said this was the best bid of all the bids received, that the Town was able to receive very favorable financing and the staff recommended that a finance and installment contract be established with Branch Banking and Trust, with an interest rate of 5.03%.
MAYOR PRO TEM PAVĂO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER STROM, TO ADOPT RESOLUTION 12A.
Council Member Evans asked what color the carts would be. Public Works Director Bruce Heflin said the staff would work with the manufacturer to have a logo designed and imprinted, and the carts would be forest green with a black cover.
Council Member Ward asked if the materials used in making the carts would be recyclable and asked for clarification of phase II of purchases, if the purchase could be altered in any way. Mr. Heflin said there was a provision in the bid submitted by OTTO which allowed the Town to use some percentage of recycled materials in the cart construction. He said that generally in the industry, it is believed that recycled materials weaken the integrity of the walls, but the manufacturer will warranty the carts for the same period. Mr. Heflin said all the carts would be recycled after their use was over and part of the agreement with OTTO would be that they would reclaim the carts and fully recycle them for further uses. He said the staff wanted a sturdy cart but would pursue the question of using recyclable materials. Mr. Heflin said the price was guaranteed for a certain number of carts, but the Town was not locked into a certain number in the second phase.
Council Member Ward asked if the Town was locked into a certain size in the second phase. Mr. Heflin said the bid was for a certain size. Mr. Karpinos said the contract would have to be renegotiated if the size was amended.
THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED BY A VOTE OF 6-2, WITH MAYOR WALDORF, MAYOR PRO TEM PAVĂO, COUNCIL MEMBERS BATEMAN, STROM, WARD AND WIGGINS VOTING AYE, AND COUNCIL MEMBERS EVANS AND FOY VOTING NAY.
A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING THE BID FOR THE LEASE PURCHASE OF ROLL CARTS (2000-10-23/R-12a)
WHEREAS, the Council authorized conversion of residential refuse collection from twice weekly rear yard to weekly curbside; and
WHEREAS, the Town will furnish roll carts to residents for the containerization of household refuse to be collected at the curb; and
WHEREAS, the following bids have been received and opened on October 10, 2000:
VENDOR BID
OTTO Industries, Inc. $156,400
12700 General Drive $34 per container
P.O. Box 410251
Charlotte, NC 28241-0251
Schaefer Systems International, Inc. $155,572
10021 Westlake Drive $33.82 per container
Charlotte, NC 28273
Cascade Engineering $156,216
4950 Thirty-Seventh Street, SE $33.96 per container
Grand Rapids, MI 49512
Ameri-Kart Corp. $164,818
433 Industrial Road $35.83 per container
P.O. Box 751
Goddard, KS 67052-0751
Rehrig Pacific Company $160,310
1000 Raco Court $34.85 per container
Lawrenceville, GA 30045
Amick Equipment $170,568
P.O. Box 1965 $37.08 per container
Lexington, SC 29071
Lifters, Inc. $163,300
1841 Meadow Glen Lane $35.50 per container
Winston-Salem, NC 27127
Waste Industries, Inc. $178,122.58
148 Stone Park Court $38.72 per container
Durham, NC 27703
WHEREAS, the bid from OTTO Industries, Inc., was found to be the most favorable responsive bid in terms of the combination of specifications met or exceeded and costs;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill that the Town accepts the lowest responsive bid of OTTO Industries, Inc., in the amount of $156,400 for acquisition of roll carts through lease purchase. Furthermore, by mutual agreement between the Town and OTTO Industries, Inc., additional carts may be acquired through lease purchase in fiscal 2001-2002 for the second phase of curbside service implementation.
This the 23rd day of October, 2000.
MAYOR PRO TEM PAVĂO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER STROM, TO ADOPT RESOLUTION 12B. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED BY A VOTE OF 6-2, WITH MAYOR WALDORF, MAYOR PRO TEM PAVĂO, COUNCIL MEMBERS BATEMAN, STROM, WARD AND WIGGINS VOTING AYE, AND COUNCIL MEMBERS EVANS AND FOY VOTING NAY.
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING A LEASE-PURCHASE CONTRACT FOR THE PURCHASE OF 4,600 ROLL CARTS FOR THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT (2000-10-23/R-12b)
WHEREAS, the Town of Chapel Hill solicited and received competitive proposals from financial institutions for the lease-purchase of 4,600 roll carts for implementation of a curbside solid waste collections program; and
WHEREAS, Branch Banking & Trust offers the lowest interest rate of 5.03% for this purchase;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOVED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill that the Council authorizes the Town Manager to enter into a contract with Branch Banking & Trust on behalf of the Town for the lease-purchase of 4,600 roll carts at a fixed interest rate of 5.03% for a three-year term.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the aforesaid contracts by and between the Town of Chapel Hill and Otto Industries, Inc., and Branch Banking & Trust, together with the amounts to be paid thereunder, be and the same are hereby designated as qualified tax-exempt obligations of the Town of Chapel Hill for purposes of Section 265(b)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Council does not reasonably expect that the Purchaser (and any subordinate entities) will issue more than $10,000,000 in qualified tax-exempt obligations pursuant to such Sections 265(b)(3)(ii) during the current calendar year.
This the 23rd day of October, 2000.
Item 13.1 – Proposal to Discuss Performance Zoning and
Development Review Process Alternatives
Mr. Horton said he was asking the Council to schedule a meeting for the Council, the Advisory Boards and the community to hear a detailed presentation and have some interchange about the key issues. He said in addition the Council had indicated that it wished to have some consideration of conceptual options for how the process would actually work. Mr. Horton recommended having the two meetings, one following the other, in order that the consultants not have to travel back for another meeting. He recommended Monday, November 20, 2000 at 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. for a discussion, before the November 20th Public Hearing already scheduled. Mr. Horton suggested the following evening for the second meeting to include consideration of the conceptual approaches as part of the regular 7:00 p.m. regular Business Meeting, November 21, 2000.
Mayor Waldorf suggested that the Tuesday meeting, November 21st begin at 5:30 p.m. instead of 7:00 p.m.
COUNCIL MEMBER STROM MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER EVANS, TO ADOPT RESOLUTION 13, WITH THE AMENDED TIME BEING 7:30 P.M.
Council Member Foy asked if the question of performance zoning in other areas would be included in the material. Mr. Horton said he would be certain that it would.
THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (8-0).
A RESOLUTION SCHEDULING MEETINGS TO DISCUSS PERFORMANCE ZONING AND POSSIBLE PROCEDURES FOR REVIEW OF DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS
(2000-10-23/R-13)
WHEREAS, the Town Council has initiated a project to revise the Town’s Development Ordinance; and
WHEREAS, the Council seeks information about how performance zoning might be built into the Town’s regulatory approach; and
WHEREAS, the Council seeks to discuss alternative procedural options for review of development applications;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill that the Council schedules the following meetings:
This the 23rd day of October, 2000.
Item 14 – Appointments (none)
Item 15 – Petitions
15.1 Petition regarding a United Way Policy presented by Council Members Foy, Strom and Wiggins.
Council Member Foy presented a petition:
“We ask the Council to direct the Mayor to contact, on behalf of the Chapel Hill Town Council, the Triangle United Way and to ask the United Way to rescind its double standard regarding discrimination based on sexual orientation. It is our understanding that the United Way does not itself discriminate on the basis of sexual orientation, but that it permits organizations that it helps fund to engage in such discrimination. The letter should specifically assert the Council’s strong support for a single policy of nondiscrimination, both for the United Way and for all organizations receiving funding from the United Way.”
COUNCIL MEMBER FOY MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER EVANS, TO ASK THE MAYOR TO CONTACT THE TRIANGLE UNITED WAY REGARDING ITS POLICY ON DISCRIMINATION. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (8-0).
Council Member Wiggins suggested that the letter be faxed in by Wednesday, because the Orange United Way had a meeting on Thursday, and it was on its agenda. Mr. Horton said the Mayor would be out of town on Tuesday and Wednesday, but the letter could be faxed on Thursday morning. The Council agreed to Thursday morning.
Item 16 – Consent Items Pulled
Council Member Strom said he had pulled Consent Agenda Item 4a because he felt there should be input from citizens regarding traffic cameras and asked for a public discussion.
Council Member Foy said he would like to hear from citizens before he voted.
Council Member Bateman felt the issue should also be referred to the Transportation Board and the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Board.
MAYOR PRO TEM PAVĂO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER STROM, THAT THE COUNCIL HOLD A PUBLIC FORUM ON THE TOPIC OF IMPLEMENTING ELECTRONIC TRAFFIC SURVEILLANCE FOR RED-LIGHT RUNNING IN CHAPEL HILL AND THAT THE AGENDA ITEM BE REFERRED TO THE BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN ADVISORY BOARD AND THE TRANSPORTATION BOARD FOR COMMENT. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (8-0).
MAYOR PRO TEM PAVĂO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER EVANS, TO ADJOURN THE MEETING. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (8-0).
The meeting adjourned at 10:14 p.m.