SUMMARY MINUTES OF A BUSINESS MEETING
OF THE CHAPEL HILL TOWN COUNCIL
MONDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2001, AT 7:00 P. M.
Mayor Rosemary Waldorf called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Council members present were Flicka Bateman, Joyce Brown, Pat Evans, Kevin Foy, Lee Pavão, Bill Strom, Jim Ward, and Edith Wiggins.
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, Fire Chief Dan Jones, Planning Director Roger Waldon, Transportation Planner David Bonk, Long Range Planner Than Austin, and Acting Town Clerk Sandy Cook.
Item 1 - Ceremonies: Resolution Thanking the Neighbors for Speed
Mayor Waldorf praised the work of Neighbors for Speed, a humanitarian relief committee which formed in October 1999 after Hurricane Floyd had ravaged much of eastern North Carolina. Mayor Waldorf explained that the Committee had raised more than $125,000 to help reconstruct and refurnish homes in Speed, and had supported 25 families who had been displaced during the flooding. She then introduced the Committee members: Co-chairs Nancy and Charles Zimmerli, Gerhart Waldorf, Zina Almers, Jean Earnhardt, Robert Epting, Westy Fenhagen, Don Hartman, Alice Joyce, Shirley Marshall, Fred Meier, and Town Council Member Edith Wiggins, who had suggested the group's formation.
Council Member Wiggins described working with the Town of Speed as a life-altering experience. She said that none who had participated would ever be the same again. Council Member Wiggins stated that Chapel Hill owed a tremendous debt of gratitude to the people on this Committee. She pointed out that there were others from Chapel Hill who also had helped out who were not on the Committee. Council Member Wiggins then asked Co-chairs Charles and Nancy Zimmerli to come to the podium.
Charles Zimmerli introduced Maria Garvey, who he said had been extremely helpful in getting furniture and other concrete materials to Speed. He said that it had been a privilege to represent the Town of Chapel Hill on this Committee and that helping the people of Speed had changed his life.
Mayor Waldorf and Council Member Wiggins distributed commemorative mugs to committee members, and Mayor Waldorf repeated that it was a great honor that they had bestowed on the Chapel Hill/Carrboro Community. She added that she did not know of any other municipality that had taken a project following Hurricane Floyd and had stuck with it the way this Committee had.
Mayor Waldorf read the "Resolution Thanking the Neighbors for Speed." She also commended the Chapel Hill Public Works Department for its efforts during that time and said that the entire community had something to be proud of. She pointed out that immediately following the hurricane the Town had sent many busloads of citizens to rip and strip flooded houses.
MAYOR PRO TEM PAVÃO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER EVANS, TO ADOPT THE CEREMONIAL RESOLUTION THANKING THE NEIGHBORS FOR SPEED. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (9-0).
A RESOLUTION THANKING THE NEIGHBORS FOR SPEED, NORTH CAROLINA
WHEREAS, the floods of September 1999 destroyed homes and damaged lives in eastern North Carolina, including the Town of Speed; and
WHEREAS, the Neighbors for Speed formed in October 1999 to raise money and help reconstruct and refurnish homes in Speed and to find sponsors in Chapel Hill and Carrboro to offer personal support to families; and
WHEREAS, the Neighbors for Speed set up a funding framework so that donations from the community could flow smoothly to the Triangle Community Foundation and be disbursed through the Rocky Mount/Edgecombe Community Development Corporation; and
WHEREAS, the efforts of the Neighbors for Speed raised more than $105,000 to assist 25 families; and
WHEREAS, rebuilt homes have many amenities that the owners did not have before, and there is a plan to clean up home sites where owners have accepted federal buyout options; and
WHEREAS, a fully-furnished Community Center now stands as a symbol of a Speed that has emerged from the devastating flood of 1999 and of the bonds that have been established between Speed and the towns of Chapel Hill and Carrboro; and
WHEREAS, a renewed spirit of optimism prevails among the people of Speed;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill that the Council expresses its sincere thanks and congratulations to the Neighbors for Speed for the group’s hard work, energy, and generosity over the last two years.
This the 22nd day of October, 2001.
a. Sidewalk and Bicycle Facilities Construction Plan for 2001-2002.
Mr. Horton pointed out that this was a forum to receive public comment. He said that the staff welcomed the Council's advice and looked forward to hearing the recommendations and suggestions of the boards and citizens.
Long Range Planner Than Austin explained that the purpose of this first public forum was to receive public input on the development of the Sidewalk and Bicycle Facilities Construction Plan for 2001-2002. He explained that there was $250,000 available, $150,000 from the CIP and $100,000 from the final allocation of the 1996 bond. Mr. Austin stated that the Manager's preliminary recommendation, which attempted to balance outside contractors and in-house construction crews, included five potential projects:
· Culbreth Road (1,473 feet), south side, in front of Culbreth Middle School (by contract);
· Rosemary Street (345 feet), north side, from Pritchard Avenue to Church Street (by Town construction crew);
· Emily Street/Partin Street (1,185 feet), north side, from Piney Mountain Road to Partin Street/entire west side length of Partin Street (by Town construction crew);
· South Graham Street (575 feet), east side, from Cameron Avenue to Franklin Street (by Town construction crew); and
· Bolinwood Drive (500 feet), north side, from Hillsborough Street to the Greenway (by Town construction crew, if funds permit).
Mr. Austin outlined the plan to review comments made tonight and those of the two advisory boards and then return to the Council with a final recommendation on November 12, 2001.
Nicole Schwalbe, speaking on behalf of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church on Rosemary Street, reported a dangerous gap in the sidewalk on Pickard Lane that connects Rosemary and Franklin Streets. She asked that the sidewalk be finished and that a curb and gutter be put in to divert silt.
Charlie Nelson, representing the Chamber of Commerce, asked if the sidewalk along the west side of Fordham Blvd was scheduled to be constructed. Mr. Austin replied that the staff was currently negotiating the design of that sidewalk with the NC Department of Transportation (NCDOT). Mr. Nelson thanked the Town for that, noting that the sidewalk would be expensive but was a very important project. He added that the Chamber of Commerce supported the bond issues. Mayor Waldorf thanked the Chamber for that support.
Marco Rengan, speaking on behalf of Cobble Ridge Homeowners Association, thanked the Town Council for helping with past safety issues. He presented a petition with sixteen signatures in favor of installing a public sidewalk along Culbreth Road, thus creating a safe passage to Culbreth Middle School and a safe area for walkers, joggers and cyclists.
Council Member Bateman asked how the Manager's recommendation for the south side of Culbreth Road affected this request. Mr. Rengan replied that he was not sure that the Manager's recommendation also covered the area that borders Kent Woodlands, Culbreth, and Cobble Ridge. Mr. Austin displayed a map showing where the Town intended to fill in the gaps on Culbreth Road.
Mary Lynn Piven expressed concern that construction might not extend to Kent Woodlands. Mayor Waldorf asked the staff to clarify what is in Chapel Hill and what is in Carrboro. Mr. Horton explained that part of Kent Woodlands was in Chapel Hill, but said he could not recall whether the portion on Culbreth Road was in Chapel Hill or not. Mr. Horton noted that there had been instances in the past where the Town had worked with Carrboro to make sensible sidewalk connections. He agreed to look into that as well.
Council Member Brown asked Mr. Austin for more specifics on how the sidewalk plan would address the neighbors' concerns. Mr. Austin replied that the project, which was essentially in front of the Culbreth Middle School, would extend about 50 feet on the east side. He agreed to bring back information at the next meeting on whether the project meets the neighbors' specific concerns.
Mr. Rengan thanked the Town Council for requesting such clarifications. He noted that there were dangerous breaks in the sidewalk from Smith Level Road to the Culbreth School.
Blair Pollock commented on the missed opportunity to build some relatively inexpensive sidewalks on Airport Road while the water lines were being installed. He expressed hope that in the future these kinds of utility rights-of-way changes would be better coordinated with Town plans for sidewalks and bike lanes. Mr. Pollock also asked that the Council ensure that funds set aside for sidewalks are not diverted to curb and gutter. He also suggested that the Town consider finding ways to put schools in the middle of the community rather than the edges. Putting schools at the edges of Town, Mr. Pollock pointed out, creates traffic and limits the ability for children to walk and bike to school.
Council Member Evans noted that there were three schools, Seawell Elementary School, Smith Middle School, and Chapel Hill High School, that children could walk to or bike to if there were a safe pedestrian walkway there. She suggested filling in the blanks between Henderson and Hillsborough Streets on East Rosemary Street and between Rosemary and Franklin Streets on Church Street. Council Member Evans recommended not using funds for sidewalks on South Graham Street (unless Community Development funds are available) because the area is safe as it is.
Council Member Bateman, concurring with Council Member Evans's assessment of Sewell School needs, suggested that Council members look at the letter on page 20 of the materials from Susan Page.
Council Member Ward also agreed with the need for sidewalks along Seawell School Road. He asked for a specific staff response to the citizen advisory board's comments.
Council Member Foy asked for a staff response to the Transportation Board's recommendation to narrow streets.
COUNCIL MEMBER WARD MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER EVANS, TO REFER THE STAFF REPORT FOR MORE INFORMATION AND CLARIFICATION. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (9-0).
b. 2004-2010 Chapel Hill Transportation Priority List.
Mr. Horton explained that proposing priorities for use of federal and State funds for road and transit improvements was part of the required process. He added that he thought it was the most important part because this is when the Town Council has an opportunity to hear from citizens on these matters.
Transportation Planner David Bonk described this as the first step in developing the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) at the State and regional level. He said that the Transportation Advisory Committee had asked local governments to submit a list of priority projects for use in developing a composite priority list for the region. This list would be used in negotiations with NCDOT to hammer out a program for spending money on transportation projects, Mr. Bonk explained. He noted that federal authorities would not fund projects until an agreeable list is accepted by both parties.
Mr. Bonk provided a summary of the status of projects on the priority list that the Council had adopted that was used to develop the 2002-2008 TIP. He noted that several of those projects had received partial or complete funding in the TIP and would be removed from the priority list when it comes back to the Council on November 12, 2001. Mr. Bonk pointed out that there also were recommendations from three boards for the Council's review and consideration.
Coalter Lathrop argued that pathways should be built for both recreation and transportation, adding that transportation is even more important in light of the Town Council's recent decision to put wide outside lanes as a priority over bike lanes. In order to provide a useful, non-motorized transportation network, he said, the greenway system has to connect without any missing links. He explained that gaps in the greenway system deter many potential users, especially those who would use it for transportation. Mr. Lathrop said that the transportation potential of a greenway system is unrealized in places such as the southeastern end of Bolin Creek, which ends at the Community Center rather than extending on, and the lower end of Booker Creek Trail, which dead-ends into East Franklin Street.
Council Member Evans asked if the Town Council had required University Mall to put a sidewalk connection in between the Community Center and the entrance at Camelot Place. Mr. Horton was unable to recall, and Council Member Evans asked him to check on that.
Council Member Bill Strom noted that on the Greenway Master Plan that section is intended to connect down to Highway 15-501and beyond.
Council Member Strom highlighted the Greenway Commission's comment about moving Morgan Creek Greenway up on the list. He noted that money for greenways in an upcoming bond referendum was intended to create links between Carrboro and Chapel Hill. Council Member Strom asked if moving that up from number 17 would help the Town get matching funds. Mr. Bonk replied that any project the Town wishes to have funded sooner would be better off higher on the list. Council Member Strom suggested that thought be given to that and to pursuing matching funds if there are opportunities to do so.
Mayor Waldorf pointed out that matching funds are always available but that the Council must choose what to put them toward. She remarked that more might be accomplished sooner if the Town used bond money for this project and federal and local matches for others.
Noting that there had been instances where the Town had either projects but no money or money but no time, Council Member Bateman expressed hope that there would be both to complete a project that would provide a vital link.
Regarding the $1 million that had been allocated for bike lanes along Old Durham/Chapel Hill Road, Council Member Foy asked if that was a sufficient amount, and, if so, does it mean that it will be done. Mr. Bonk replied that planners had not yet completed the detailed cost analysis. He said that the project would require a 20% local match. Since it is split between Durham and Chapel Hill, he said, the Town must decide how to pay for its share of that match. Council Member Foy asked if that would require a new right-of-way. Mr. Bonk replied that it must first be determine whether the cost analysis is in the ballpark. At this point, he said, the assumption is that they will lay down more asphalt rather than buy more right-of-way.
COUNCIL MEMBER WARD MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER EVANS, TO REFER THE ITEM TO THE MANAGER AND ATTORNEY. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (9-0).
Item 3 - Petitions by Citizens and Announcements by Council Members
1. Shirley Blanton, Board Chair, First Church of Christ, requesting replacement of original sign at 1300 Airport Road.
COUNCIL MEMBER FOY MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER WIGGINS, TO RECEIVE AND REFER THE PETITION FROM THE FIRST CHURCH OF CHRIST TO THE STAFF. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (9-0).
Council Member Bateman, noting that the First Church of Christ had been having a tough time ever since the widening of Airport Road, urged the Council and staff to resolve this issue.
2. Southern Village Residents, regarding bus service in Southern Village.
Chris Rogers, an attorney who resides at Southern Village, discussed a petition from his neighborhood, which asks that buses going through Southern Village be restricted to commercial park and ride areas and not pass through the residential area. He said that petitioners had tried to submit this as soon as possible because the bus route schedule would be printed at the end of October and they were concerned about the potential for delay that would unfairly prejudice the petition. Mr. Rogers asked the Council to address those deadlines and to consider the petition as soon as possible.
Council Member Foy asked Mr. Horton to clarify the time deadline issue. Mr. Horton replied that the Council could begin or suspend service at any time it wishes during the year. He added that meeting the deadline for printing the schedule would not be sufficient reason to make a hasty decision.
Mayor pro tem Pavão explained that the staff had been working with the neighbors to eliminate the bulk of their concerns. Mr. Rogers replied that the staff had planned some rerouting that seemed to grant the petition while at the same time fulfilling the Town's mandate to provide bus service within a quarter of a mile.
Mayor Waldorf pointed out that the staff had received this petition and had been working one it. She said that the Council was not going to make a decision tonight, and advised Council members to make their comments and then move on without trying to reach a conclusion.
Mayor pro tem Pavão asked that the Transportation Director's report be included when this item comes back to the Council.
Council Member Brown asked that the staff report also include a review of the discussion that took place at the time Southern Village was in public hearing regarding transit. She also asked for maps of the route as it is now and some idea of the area that is not residential.
Council Member Wiggins asked for information on whether this is an area where mini buses might be appropriate.
Mr. Rogers pointed out that petitioners were also concerned about non-resident commuter parking, which is a significant problem as well.
Council Member Brown asked for more information on ridership.
COUNCIL MEMBER FOY MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER EVANS, TO RECEIVE AND REFER THE PETITION. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (9-0).
3. Virginia Barbee, requesting a Roof for the Grandma Support Group Center.
Virginia Barbee, representing the Grandma Support Group, said that although it is important to her Group to function without asking for help, they had found it necessary to ask the Town for a roof on their Center. Ms. Barbee requested that the Town respond soon rather than simply ignoring the request as they had done with Group's petition regarding trash.
COUNCIL MEMBER STROM MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER FOY, TO RECEIVE AND REFER THE PETITION. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (9-0).
Council Member Wiggins asked when the staff would respond to the petition regarding trash. Mr. Horton said he would respond at the next meeting, and apologized that no one had yet contacted Ms. Barbee about that.
4. Joe Capowski, regarding rezoning of property.
Mayor Waldorf referred to a petition from Joe Capowski, which asks that a small triangle of University-owned property that was left out of the rezoning package be rezoned to R-2.
COUNCIL MEMBER FOY MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER EVANS, TO RECEIVE AND REFER THE PETITION. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (9-0).
5. Petition from John Krachenfels, regarding a stoplight in Southern Village.
Council Member Foy noted the petition from John Krachenfels regarding a stoplight. Mr. Horton explained that there was a payment-in-lieu provided at the time the Council authorized Southern Village. He said that the payment had been made and the Town was following up to see what the schedule for installation would be.
Council Member Foy commented that interim measures might be taken.
Mayor Waldorf added that she had received a letter from another citizen asking the Council to look at the possibility of installing pedestrian crossing lights on Highway 15-501 in that same vicinity.
COUNCIL MEMBER FOY MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER STROM, TO RECEIVE AND REFER THE PETITION. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (9-0).
Announcements by Council Members.
Council Member Evans said that she had received an announcement from Triangle J Council of Governments saying that free trees were available through the Regional Improvements Committee. She referred this to the Manager, suggesting that the Town apply for some free trees.
COUNCIL MEMBER EVANS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER FOY, TO REFER THE ANNOUNCEMENT FROM TRIANGLE J COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS REGARDING FREE TREES TO THE MANAGER. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (9-0).
Mayor Waldorf reported that she, Mr. Horton and Council Member Strom had gone to a recent League of Municipalities meeting and that Chapel Hill had taken the lead in organizing a meeting of representatives of university and college towns. She reported that a decision had been made to form a University Communities Caucus, and that Chapel Hill was left with the responsibility for taking the next organizational step. Mayor Waldorf urged the next Town Council to follow through on this initiative, adding that it has the potential to enable university communities to work better with the legislature and the university system.
Mayor pro tem Pavão ascertained that the caucus would be for North Carolina.
Council Member Brown thanked the three for forming this caucus, and suggested that the Council work with the NC League of Municipalities. Mayor Waldorf replied that the plan was to work through that League.
Item 4 - Consent Agenda
Regarding 4h, Council Member Brown asked Council members to agree that when the group of managers convenes they look at how Cornelius is checking Town equipment for pollution. She suggested that the Manager also look at any other towns in North Carolina that have begun projects like this. Council members agreed by consensus.
Council Member Brown removed 4i, explaining that she would like to discuss this in relation to the Energy Ordinance. Mr. Horton pointed out that the Police Chief and the architect were no longer present because the staff was not aware that the item would be pulled. He added that the staff would do its best to address the issue but that delaying the bid would cause significant problems.
Mayor Waldorf suggested that the Council discuss the issue now rather waiting until than later in the meeting.
Council Member Brown asked why this project had not come under the Energy Ordinance, adding that the amount of money involved should have brought the Energy Ordinance into play as far as renovation projects are concerned. Assistant Town Manager Sonna Loewenthal explained that the staff was in the unusual position of having bids come in lower than they had expected. She said that the staff had thought the specifications as written would use up most of the budget. Replacement of the AC units, Ms. Loewenthal explained, would have a significant impact on the use of energy in the building. Beyond that, she said, the Council was very clear in advising the staff that they were only to spend money on protecting the building. Part of doing that, Ms. Loewenthal said, would be to improve the HVAC system.
Council Member Brown asked if the staff had followed the guidelines in the Energy Ordinance. Ms. Loewenthal replied that the specifications were written so long ago she could not remember the specific details of the Ordinance. She said that she did know, though, that the staff was very conscious of it. Council Member Brown requested that in the future there be more specifics on how projects relate to the Energy Ordinance and how the Ordinance was followed.
MAYOR PRO TEM PAVÃO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER WARD, TO ADOPT THE CONSENT AGENDA. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (9-0).
A RESOLUTION ADOPTING VARIOUS RESOLUTIONS AND ORDINANCES (2001-10-22/R-1)
BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill that the Council hereby adopts the following resolutions and ordinances as submitted by the Town Manager in regard to the following:
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a. |
Consideration of Disposal of Surplus Property: Two (2) Trolley Buses (R-2). |
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b. |
Request to Close a Section of the Ridgewood Lane Right-of-way (R-3). |
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c. |
Resolution Calling a Public Forum to Consider a Change in Cablevision Public Access Fees Paid by Cable Television Subscribers (R-4). |
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d. |
Consideration of Parking Restrictions on Northfield Drive (O-1). |
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e. |
Project Ordinance for a 2000-2001 Transportation Capital and Planning Grant (O-2). |
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f. |
Project Ordinance for a 2001-2002 Transportation Planning Grant (O-3). |
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g. |
Project Ordinance for 2001-2002 Transportation Capital Grants for Buses (O-4). |
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h. |
Proposal for Cooperative Effort for Working on International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI) (R-5). |
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i. |
Consideration of Bids: Renovation to Police Headquarters Building (R-6). |
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j. |
Project Ordinance Amendment for Flood Mitigation Grant (O-5). |
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k. |
Update on Durham-Chapel Hill 2025 Regional Transportation Plan (R-7). |
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l. |
Revision to Post-Towing Hearing Procedure for Junked Cars (O-6). |
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This the 22nd day of October, 2001.
A RESOLUTION DECLARING TWO (2) TROLLEY BUSES AND PARTS TO BE SURPLUS AND AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING DISPOSAL OF SAID TROLLEYS IN ACCORDANCE WITH STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS (2001-10-22/R-2)
WHEREAS, Article 12, Chapter 160A of the N.C. General Statutes and Section 4.16 of the Charter of the Town of Chapel Hill authorize the Town to dispose of surplus property; and
WHEREAS, the Town desires to dispose of the Trolley buses and parts.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill that the following items are hereby declared surplus:
YEAR MAKE VIN #
1989 Chance Trolley Bus 77475
1989 Chance Trolley Bus 77476
Eight-two (82) Chance Trolley Bus Parts
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Council authorizes the trolley buses and parts to be disposed of by sealed bid in accordance with N.C. General Statute 160A-267.
This the 22nd day of October, 2001.
A RESOLUTION CALLING A PUBLIC HEARING ON THE PROPOSED CLOSURE OF A SECTION OF THE RIDGEWOOD LANE RIGHT-OF-WAY (2001-10-22/R-3)
BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill that the Council hereby declares its intent to consider closing the Ridgewood Lane right-of-way as shown on Orange County Tax Map 7.48 which said right-of-way is approximately 10 feet wide and 234 feet in length, and calls a public hearing at 7:00 p.m., Monday, November 19, 2001 in the Council Chamber at Town Hall, 306 N. Columbia Street, Chapel Hill, NC to receive public comments on the proposed closing of said right-of-way.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Town Manager is hereby directed to arrange publication, posting, and mailing of notices of the hearing as required by law.
This the 22nd day of October, 2001.
A RESOLUTION REGARDING THE SUPPLEMENTAL PUBLIC ACCESS RATE FOR CABLE TELEVISION IN CHAPEL HILL (2001-10-22/R-4)
BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill that the Council calls a public forum on November 12, 2001, to receive comments on whether the supplemental public access rate should be: adjusted for inflation to 70 cents per month; continued at the present rate of 69 cents per month; reduced; or eliminated.
This the 22nd day of October 2001.
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 21-27 OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES REGARDING NO PARKING AS TO PARTICULAR STREETS (2001-10-22/O-1)
BE IT ORDAINED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill as follows:
Section 1. Section 21-27 of the Town Code “No parking as to particular streets.” is hereby amended by inserting the following therein, in appropriate alphabetical order:
Northfield Drive North Airport Road End
Northfield Drive South Airport Road A point 100 feet west of the western
edge of Airport Road
Section 2. This ordinance shall become effective October 31, 2001.
This is the 22nd day of October, 2001.
AN ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING A PROJECT BUDGET FOR A TRANSPORTATION GRANT (2001-10-22/O-2)
BE IT ORDAINED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill that, pursuant to Section 13.2 of Chapter 159 of the General Statutes of North Carolina, the following grant projects are hereby established:
SECTION I
The Urban Area Formula Program (Section 5307) funds are from 2000 federal funds from an agreement with the Federal Transit Administration.
SECTION II
The Manager of the Town of Chapel Hill is hereby directed to proceed with the implementation of the project within the terms of the grant agreements executed with the Federal Transit Administration and the North Carolina Department of Transportation within the funds appropriated herein.
SECTION III
The following revenue is anticipated to be available to the Town to complete activities as outlined in the project application.
Urbanized Area Formula Program (Section 5307)
Federal Transit Administration (FTA) $198,280
NC Department of Transportation (NCDOT) 12,523
Town of Chapel Hill (local match) 37,040
TOTAL $247,850
SECTION IV
The following amounts are appropriated for the FY2000 Section 5307 project:
Salaries - Full Time $ 90,029
Fringe Benefits 13,145
FICA 6,856
M & R Vehicles 13,547
Supplies – Fleet 60,000
Miscellaneous Contracted Services 64,273
TOTAL $247,850
The Manager is directed to report annually on the financial status of the project in an informational section to be included in the Annual Report. He shall also keep the Council informed of any unusual occurrences.
SECTION VI
Copies of this project ordinance shall be entered into the Minutes of the Council and copies shall be filed within 5 days of adoption with the Manager, Finance Director and Town Clerk.
This the 22nd day of October 2001.
AN ORDINANCE TO ADOPT A GRANT PROJECT ORDINANCE FOR A TRANSIT PROJECT (2001-10-22/O-3)
BE IT ORDAINED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill that, pursuant to Section 13.2 of Chapter 159 of the General Statutes of North Carolina, the following grant project ordinance is hereby adopted:
SECTION I
The project authorized is a Transit Planning Grant, more specifically known as a Federal Transit Administration Planning Program Section 5303 (formerly Section 8), awarded through an agreement with the City of Durham. The project provides funds for transit planning activities.
SECTION II
The Manager of the Town of Chapel Hill is hereby directed to proceed with the implementation of the project within the terms of the grant agreement executed with the Federal Transit Administration, the North Carolina Department of Transportation, and the City of Durham and within the funds appropriated herein.
SECTION III
The following revenue is anticipated to be available to the Town to complete activities as outlined in the project application.
City of Durham (FTA & NCDOT) $47,529
Town of Chapel Hill (local match) 5,281
$52,810
SECTION IV
The following amounts are appropriated for the project:
Salaries - Full Time $28,000
Salaries - Contract 10,000
Fringe Benefits 4,403
FICA 2,907
Travel 3,000
Supplies 1,500
Equipment 3,000
$52,810
SECTION V
The Manager is directed to report annually on the financial status of the project in an informational section to be included in the Annual Report. He shall also keep the Council informed of any unusual occurrences.
SECTION VI
Copies of this project ordinance shall be entered into the Minutes of the Council and copies shall be filed within 5 days of adoption with the Manager, Finance Director and Town Clerk.
This the 22nd day of October, 2001.
AN ORDINANCE TO ADOPT GRANT PROJECT ORDINANCES FOR TRANSIT PROJECTS (2001-10-22/O-4)
BE IT ORDAINED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill that, pursuant to Section 13.2 of Chapter 159 of the General Statutes of North Carolina, the following grant project ordinances are hereby adopted:
SECTION I
The Discretionary Program (Section 5309) funds authorized are from 1999 federal funds from an agreement with the Federal Transit Administration and the North Carolina Department of Transportation.
The Federal Transit Administration Formula Program (Section 5307) funds authorized are from
Federal Highway Administration funds transferred to the Federal Transit Administration in 2001.
SECTION II
The Manager of the Town of Chapel Hill is hereby directed to proceed with the implementation of the projects within the terms of the grant agreements executed with the Federal Transit Administration and the North Carolina Department of Transportation within the funds appropriated herein.
SECTION III
The following revenue is anticipated to be available to the Town to complete activities as outlined in the project ordinance.
Discretionary Program (Section 5309) – Seven Replacement Buses
Federal Transit Administration (FTA) $1,570,000
N.C. Department of Transportation (NCDOT) 151,325
Town of Chapel Hill (local match) 170,241
TOTAL $1,891,566
Federal Transit Administration Formula Program (Section 5307) – Seven Replacement Buses
Federal Transit Administration (FTA) $1,603,581
N.C. Department of Transportation (NCDOT) 154,562
Town of Chapel Hill (local match) 173,882
TOTAL $1,932,025
Federal Transit Administration Formula Program (Section 5307) – Ten Expansion Buses
Federal Transit Administration (FTA) $2,324,000
N.C. Department of Transportation (NCDOT) 224,000
Town of Chapel Hill (local match) 252,000
TOTAL $2,800,000
SECTION IV
The following amounts are appropriated for the FY2002 projects:
Discretionary Program (Section 5309) – Seven Replacement Buses
Business Meetings/Training $ 3,000
Capital Equipment 1,888,566
TOTAL $1,891,566
Federal Transit Administration Formula Program (Section 5307) – Seven Replacement Buses
Business Meetings/Training $ 3,000
Capital Equipment 1,929,025
TOTAL $1,932,025
Federal Transit Administration Formula Program (Section 5307) – Ten Expansion Buses
Business Meetings/Training $ 3,000
Capital Equipment 2,797,000
TOTAL $2,800,000
The Manager is directed to report annually on the financial status of the project in an informational section to be included in the Annual Report. He shall also keep the Council informed of any unusual occurrences.
SECTION VI
Copies of this project ordinance shall be entered into the Minutes of the Council and copies shall be filed within 5 days of adoption with the Manager, Finance Director and Town Clerk.
This the 22nd day of October, 2001.
A RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE TOWN TO REQUEST PARTICIPATION BY CARRBORO AND ORANGE COUNTY IN GRANT APPLICATIONS TO FUND COUNTYWIDE EMISSIONS REDUCTION STUDY (2001-10-22 /R-5)
WHEREAS, on August 23, 1999, the Council adopted a resolution pledging the Town to join in the Cities for Climate Protection Campaign, sponsored by the International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency; and
WHEREAS, the Council stated that the Town would develop a greenhouse gas emissions study in the event that grant funding is obtained; and
WHEREAS, a countywide emissions reduction plan would be more effective than one that focuses on sources within the Town limits in addressing the regional problem of air pollution; and
WHEREAS, the Carrboro Town and Orange County Manager have expressed interest in working jointly with Chapel Hill on ICLEI initiatives.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill that the Council requests the Orange County Board of Commissioners and the Carrboro Board of Aldermen to authorize their Managers to work jointly with Chapel Hill staff to obtain a funding source and prepare a countywide emissions reduction plan once funding becomes available.
This the 22nd day of October, 2001.
A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING BIDS AND AWARDING CONTRACTS FOR THE POLICE DEPARTMENT HEADQUARTERS BUILDING RENOVATION PROJECT (2001-10-22/R-6)
WHEREAS, the Town of Chapel Hill has solicited formal bids by advertisement in the September 12, 2001 edition of The Chapel Hill Newspaper in accordance with G.S. 143-128 for the renovation of the Police Department Headquarters Building at 828 Airport Road; and
WHEREAS, the following bids were received and opened on September 27, 2001:
|
Contractor |
Base Bid Single-prime |
Base Bid Multi-prime |
Mechanical |
Alternate G # 1 |
Alternate G # 2 |
Total |
|
CCS |
$265,593.00 |
|
|
$9,740.00 |
$2,500.00 |
$277,833.00 |
|
H.M. Kern Corp. |
$320,850.00 |
|
|
$38,500.00 |
$7,000.00 |
$366,350.00 |
|
D.W. Ward |
$360,483.00 |
|
|
$582.50 |
$5,942.00 |
$367,007.50 |
|
Patriot Building Co. |
$346,500.00 |
|
|
$41,500.00 |
$2,000.00 |
$390,000.00 |
|
Van Thomas Contractor |
$340,000.00 |
|
|
$70,000.00 |
No Bid |
$410,000.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
D.W. Ward |
|
$268,982.00 |
|
$582.50 |
$5,942.00 |
$275,506.50 |
|
H.M. Kern Corp. |
|
$233,000.00 |
|
$38,500.00 |
$7,000.00 |
$278,500.50 |
|
Patriot Building Co. |
|
$241,500.00 |
|
$41,500.00 |
$2,000.00 |
$285,000.00 |
|
Trout and Riggs |
|
$250,200.00 |
|
$45,800.00 |
$5,200.00 |
$301,200.50 |
|
Van Thomas Contractor |
|
$248,000.00 |
|
$70,000.00 |
No Bid |
$318,000.00 |
|
Kechk Co. |
|
$299,910.00 |
|
$65,787.00 |
$14,000.00 |
$379,697.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Applied Control Technology |
|
|
$85,573.00 |
|
|
|
|
Cooper Mechanical |
|
|
$94,000.00 |
|
|
|
|
Hockaday Mechanical Corp. |
|
|
$112,400.00 |
|
|
|
|
Watco Corp. |
|
|
$139,900.00 |
|
|
|
|
Comfort Engineers |
|
|
$154,688.00 |
|
|
|
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill that the Town accepts the bids of and awards the contracts to the lowest responsive bidders including, D. W. Ward Construction Company Inc., general contractor for base bid and alternate bid work in the amount of $275,506.50 and Applied Control Technology, mechanical contractor, in the amount of $85,573.00 for the mechanical work.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED by the Town Council that, because this project is renovation of an aging building and is expected to uncover unexpected conditions, the Town Manager is authorized to approve change orders up to $50,000 without additional approval from the Town Council.
This the 22nd day of October, 2001.
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE CAPITAL PROJECTS ORDINANCE FOR OPEN SPACE/GREENWAY ACQUISITIONS FROM 1996 BONDS (2001-10-22/O-5)
BE IT ORDAINED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill that, pursuant to Section 13.2 of Chapter 159 of the General Statutes of North Carolina, that the capital project for Open/Space Greenway Acquisitions from 1996 Bonds is hereby amended as follows to include a flood mitigation grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
The capital projects as authorized by bond referenda approved in November, 1996 include the capital costs of acquiring open space and greenways as determined by the Town Council, within and without the corporate limits of the Town.
The Manager of the Town of Chapel Hill is hereby directed to proceed with implementation of these projects within terms of funds appropriated here.
Revenues anticipated to be available to the Town to complete the project are amended as follows:
Current Revised
Budget Budget
Bond Proceeds 3,000,000 3,000,000
Total Revenues 3,000,000 3,207,416
Amounts appropriated are for the project are amended as follows:
Acquisition of Open Space and Greenways 3,000,000 3,000,000
Flood Mitigation Project 0 207,416
Total Appropriations 3,000,000 3,000,000
The Manager is directed to report annually on the financial status of the project in an informational section to be included in the Annual Budget, and shall keep the Council informed of any unusual occurrences.
Copies of this ordinance shall be entered into the Minutes of the Council and copies shall be filed within 5 days of adoption with the Manager, Finance Director and Clerk.
This the 22nd day of October, 2001.
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THAT THE DURHAM-CHAPEL HILL-CARRBORO TRANSPORTATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE PROVIDE ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR PUBLIC COMMENT AS PART OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE 2025 REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION PLAN (2001-10-22/R-7)
WHEREAS, the Durham-Chapel Hill-Carrboro Transportation Advisory Committee is preparing a 2025 Transportation Plan; and
WHEREAS, as part of the development of the 2025 Plan the Transportation Advisory Committee is analyzing alternative transportation scenarios; and
WHEREAS, the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill recommends that the public be given the opportunity to comment on important milestones of the 2025 Plan as they are being developed;
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill that the Council requests the Transportation Advisory Committee provide additional public comment periods for the review of analysis of the Tier 2 alternatives and the final three alternatives.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Council requests that the public comment period for the Tier 2 alternatives extend through January, 2002.
This the 22nd day of October, 2001.
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES REGARDING THE TYPE OF HEARING PROCEDURE APPLICABLE TO VEHICLES TOWED AS HEALTH OR SAFETY HAZARDS (2001-10-22/O-6)
BE IT ORDAINED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill as follows:
Section 1. The second paragraph of Section 11-26 of the Town Code is hereby revised to read as follows:
“An
owner of a vehicle towed under the provisions of this section may request a
hearing under Article IIIA, Chapter 21 of this Code of Ordinances as
provided by law.”
Section 2. This ordinance shall become effective upon adoption.
This the 22nd day of October, 2001.
Item 5 - Information Items. None.
Mr. Kenneth Chavious, Orange County Finance Director, discussed Orange County's upcoming $75 million bond referendum and displayed a PowerPoint presentation outlining the following four targeted community issues:
· $47 million for public school facilities: $27.7 million to Chapel Hill/Carrboro for two new schools at Meadowmont and on Eubanks Road. The funds would also be used to improve indoor air quality at older facilities, such as Chapel Hill High, Estes Hills Elementary and Phillips Middle School;
· $4 million for two new senior centers: Orange County's Southern Human Services Center on Homestead Road, and a Hillsborough site not yet determined;
· $4 million for affordable housing opportunities: defined as housing that cost no more than a third of the total family income. A portion of these funds could be used to leverage federal, State and private funds;
· $20 million for parks, recreation, and open space: This would be used to build or improve Cedar Grove Park in northern Orange County, Chapel Hill's Township Park and Educational Campus at the intersection of Eubanks Road and Old 86, Chapel Hill's Southern Park, Fairview Park in Hillsborough, the Efland Cheeks Park, and Smith Middle School. Funds would also be used for an indoor aquatic center in Chapel Hill and to leverage grant funds to purchase parklands, enhance the greenway system, and build soccer fields. The Orange County School System would receive funds for a new middle school and to renovate Hillsboro Elementary School.
Mr. Chavious's narrated slide presentation explained that to fund projects with voter-approved bonds is one method of paying for the construction of new facilities over time with repayments over a 20-year period. With approval of all bond projects the maximum tax rate increase would be 7.5-cents, he said, to be phased in over a number of years as the bonds are sold. Once the entire $75 million in bonds were issued, Mr. Chavious said, then an owner of an $100,000 home would see an annual tax increase of about $75 per year.
Council Member Bateman inquired about the maximum number of years that bonds could be phased in. Mr. Chavious replied that bond authorization lasts for seven years from the date they are authorized by the voters. He said that a three-year extension could be requested, so there is the potential for ten years.
Mayor Waldorf suggested making a motion of strong Council support for all of the bonds.
Council Member Strom commented that bonds are large capital injections that reflect what the Council believes will solve significant issues in the community. He noted that the National Park Standards' recommended acreage indicate that Orange County should have 1,861 acres of parks, but it has 729 acres, only 266 of which have been developed into parkland. So, there is a significant park, recreation and open space deficit, Council Member Strom pointed out. He added that the $4 million on the affordable housing bond was a compromise figure which would not solve the problem but could be leveraged to create forty to fifty million dollars worth of affordable housing stock.
MAYOR PRO TEM PAVÃO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER WARD, THAT COUNCIL MEMBERS STRONGLY SUPPORT THE BOND REFERENDUM. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (9-0).
Item 7 - Public Arts Commission Percent for Art Recommendations
Renee Piechocki, Co-chair of the Chapel Hill Public Arts Commission, presented the Commission's vision for public art, which she said addresses the unique needs of Chapel Hill and maintains professional standards in the field. Ms. Piechocki explained that this proposal had been developed with the help of Town staff, particularly Ms. Loewenthal. She said that the presentation this evening would highlight the reasons why the Commission feels that public art should be part of the everyday fabric of Chapel Hill.
Ms. Piechocki noted that 39 of the 50 states have at least one public arts program, with a total of 310 programs nationwide. She said that the majority of these programs follow the "percent for art" model, using a portion of construction funds toward permanent public art to enhance the aesthetic quality of buildings and public spaces. Ms. Piechocki showed examples of painting, sculpture, relief work, landscaping, and structural design that had been used in public arts projects. She noted that such projects make art accessible, free, democratic and engaging, while creating social interaction and discourse and promoting tourism and economic activity.
The proposed Public Arts Ordinance details a partnership between the Town Council, staff, Arts Commission and community, Ms. Piechocki said. She emphasized that funding for public art would not be allocated in a haphazard manner and that the project's cornerstone would be the annual public art program. The Town would have the opportunity to review, during its annual budget review process, a prioritized list of projects developed with the Town staff, she said. She pointed out that the ordinance calls for one percent of eligible construction costs to be spent on public art.
Ms. Piechocki stated that the Selection Committee for Public Art would include a community member at large as well as the Town Council, Town staff, Arts Commission, architect, and two community members who would serve as public art professionals. She said that proposed projects would be presented to the community in open public forums, and that this would be done before projects are fabricated, allowing a dialogue between the artist and the community and close monitoring by Town staff and the Commission. The Town Manager would have final approval of artworks, she said.
Ms. Piechocki predicted that the ordinance would become a model for other communities in the State. She pointed out that the Comprehensive Plan calls for a Public Arts Ordinance and that the Commission strongly recommends it. Public art ordinances are the mark of a professional program, she said, and programs with ordinances can leverage additional outside funding. Ms. Piechocki explained that based on the strengths of its proposed ordinance and guidelines the Commission had already received a grant from the NC Arts Council. She said that Commission members would meet with citizens over the coming year to gather ideas about public art and that those ideas would be incorporated into the plan.
Acknowledging that current Council members already support the project, Ms. Piechocki pointed out that having an ordinance would protect public art as the Council changes. She quoted the Comprehensive Plan regarding the value of public art, and recommended that Council members vote to adopt an art ordinance for the Town of Chapel Hill as outlined in the draft ordinance and guidelines.
Carolyn Leith thanked Council members for their support and asked them to make the public ordinance official for all the reasons that Ms. Piechocki had sited. Ms. Leith described public art as a "creative, wonderful, tourist-enhancing development," and pointed out that a similar project in the town of Columbus, Indiana had attracted tourists from all over the world.
Council Member Foy, liaison to the Commission, thanked Commission members for their work and for bringing the Ordinance forward.
COUNCIL MEMBER FOY MOVED R-8 WITH AN AMENDMENT ASKING THE MANAGER AND ATTORNEY TO BRING BACK A PROPOSED ORDINANCE. COUNCIL MEMBER STROM SECONDED THE MOTION.
Council Member Evans inquired about how much money would have been generated over the past five years if this ordinance had been in place. She also wondered, regarding section 7C, whether removing art should be the role of the Council rather than the Commission, and asked for feedback from the staff regarding that. Ms. Piechocki replied that she completely agreed that the Town Council should be the body to decide if it does not want a work of art in its possession. She offered to provide models for the Town staff to look at. She also explained that the Annual Public Arts Program would be the "funnel" through which funding for projects is decided upon. While the ordinance is "open," Ms. Piechocki said, the Annual Public Arts Program would get bigger or smaller as it develops. She noted that the Commission consists of volunteers with one part-time staff member. Even if they wanted to, she said, they could not take over the Town with art.
Council Member Ward asked for clarification at some point on expenditures where the Town provides a match. Ms. Piechocki said that she understood it would be one percent of Town money, but suggested referring that to the staff for clarification. Mr. Horton agreed, adding that he did not think the State would allow the Town to use State funds for anything but the purposes they had previously specified. Council Member Ward asked if this would apply to County bond money as well. Mr. Horton replied that although Orange County might provide some greater leeway bond funds usually are restricted for specific purposes.
THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (9-0).
A RESOLUTION REFERRING PROPOSAL FROM THE PUBLIC ARTS COMMISSION TO THE TOWN MANAGER (2001-10-22/R-8)
WHEREAS, the Town Council resolved in July 2000 to proceed with a Percent for Art Program as part of the short-term implementation of the Comprehensive Plan; and
WHEREAS, the Chapel Hill Public Arts Commission has researched similar programs nationwide, discussed policy issues among its members and worked with Town staff; and
WHEREAS, the Chapel Hill Public Arts Commission has submitted a proposed ordinance and implementation guidelines for such a program;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill that the proposal is referred to the Town Manager and Town Attorney for their report and recommendations on a proposed ordinance at the Council’s next Council meeting on November 12.
This the 22nd day of October, 2001.
Item 9 - Report on U.S. 15-501 Major Investment Study, Phase II
Mr. Bonk explained that the memo before the Council attempted to address most of the questions raised at the public forum and work session. The attached resolution, he said, included recommendations for comments on the final Major Investment Study, Phase II report and subsequent action that might be taken to move forward with an Environmental Impact Statement at the federal level.
Mayor Waldorf, describing R-9 as "thoughtful and complete," recommended that the Council adopt it.
Council Member Bateman inquired about the data showing that one route was mainly for people commuting to and from work rather than those going to commercial centers. She explained that a citizen had asked her why it would not go to commercial centers, such as Eastgate and New Hope Commons. Mr. Bonk replied that the bulk of identified riders would be going to work. The modeling did assume that there will be commercial uses, he said, and Durham had decided to keep the route on the south side of Highway 15-501.
Council Member Foy asked about links to Horace Williams. Mr. Bonk replied that alternative routes had not been looked at as part of the fixed guideway analysis. But if Horace Williams property develops as anticipated, he said, there would be a tremendous amount of bus service. Council Member Foy asked how exactly the Town would initiate looking at transportation to and from Horace Williams before the University puts 22,000 parking spaces on that site. Mr. Bonk replied that the Town could study connecting it with local bus service, or it could include a proposal for a fixed guideway to Horace Williams in the 2025 Regional Transportation Plan, or it could initiate a Major Investment Study. Council Member Foy suggested initiating a process to reserve a corridor.
Mayor Waldorf agreed, noting that there is a railroad line that runs through Horace Williams. She recommended beginning to think about how to use that corridor and capture trips at park and ride lots in the I-40/Highway 86 juncture.
Council Member Strom agreed with Mayor Waldorf, but pointed out that the railway she mentioned runs through the rural buffer and that Council Member Foy had been talking about connecting the Gateway to Horace Williams. Council Member Strom said that the Town should start laying the groundwork for preserving a corridor for future use that would provide spurs and options for the Town as the system develops.
Council Member Brown expressed reservations about voting for the alignment from Meadowmont into Town. She asked why Highway 54 could not be used. Mr. Bonk replied that the analysis had indicated that traffic projected for NC 54 from the bypass to the east towards RTP was too large to allow for efficient operation of a bus and there was not enough right-of-way for a separate guideway along the corridor. Council Member Brown asked how Cameron Avenue, which has only two lanes, could be considered then as a transit route. Mr. Bonk explained that Cameron Avenue had been mentioned because its volumes of traffic are less and it could be widened. But Cameron Avenue had not been considered and studied as a guideway, he said.
MAYOR PRO TEM PAVÃO MOVED R-9. COUNCIL MEMBER EVANS SECONDED.
Council Member Bateman, noting that she had not been present at the work session, emphasized that she would not want to vote for something that would go through Glenwood School property. She asked Mr. Bonk to assure her that this guideway would not do that. Mr. Bonk replied that he believed it could be realigned to the south. Council Member Bateman asked what would happen if it could not be realigned. Mr. Horton explained that it would then come back to the Council for further comment and another vote.
Council Member Brown pointed out that the alignment shown on the map goes right beside the Glenwood School. Mayor Waldorf pointed out that development is more than ten years away. Since the Glenwood School is the oldest school in the system, she said, there might be other considerations ten years from now.
Council Member Foy said that he did not support going through the Glenwood School parking lot either, but did not think that moving the process forward would cement this issue.
Council Member Brown noted that the first bullet under "Now be it resolved" stated: "the fixed guideway alignment identified in the Phase II report should be included in the Transportation Plan." She said she support R-9 if that language could be changed.
Mayor Waldorf asked Mr. Bonk to address the lack of precision with regard to the Glenwood School. Mr. Bonk explained that this is merely a corridor and not an alignment on the ground that is set in stone. He said that it was meant only to designate a general corridor, and there is a lot of "wiggle room that can occur within the general definition of that corridor."
Council Member Brown remarked that the language is very specific. Mr. Horton pointed out that the alignment is not so specific that you could say it would go through the parking lot, or through the building, or behind the building. He noted that language could be added to preserve the Glenwood School property. For example, adding "the Council wishes to preserve the Glenwood School property" to the first bullet would achieve that goal, Mr. Horton said. Council Member Brown suggested adding, "and safety of any or future uses of this property."
Mayor Waldorf commented that there were extensive safety regulations imposed by the FTA.
Council Member Evans pointed out that the site might not always be a school.
Council Member Wiggins suggested that any decision about that property be made in conjunction with the Chapel Hill/Carrboro Board of Education.
Council Member Brown argued again for her additional wording.
Mayor pro tem Pavão, the mover, accepted Council Member Wiggins's suggestion to add a bullet saying that the Town Council wanted a future Council to work with a future School Board with regard to how this corridor might affect the Glenwood School site.
Council Member Wiggins pointed out that in fifteen years the School Board might want to zone the area commercial and build a new school somewhere else.
Council Member Brown requested language saying that the whole issue of alignment would be revisited when they get closer to making a final decision.
Several Council members pointed out that this would be part of the process anyway.
Council Member Wiggins asked for help with the exact wording for her amendment. Mr. Horton recommended: "As to the alignment in the area near the Glenwood School, we request that the Town Council have an opportunity to communicate and obtain the advice of the Chapel Hill/Carrboro School Board before any final decision is made." Council Member Ward suggested not naming Glenwood because there is another alignment being considered that is close to the Meadowmont Elementary School. The mover and seconder agreed to change the wording to "as regarding the alignment proximate to any school site."
MAYOR PRO TEM PAVAO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER EVANS, TO ADOPT R-9, AS AMENDED TO SAY, "AS TO THE ALIGNMENT PROXIMATE TO ANY SCHOOL SITE, WE REQUEST THAT THE TOWN COUNCIL HAVE AN OPPORTUNITY TO COMMUNICATE AND OBTAIN THE ADVICE OF THE CHAPEL HILL/CARRBORO SCHOOL BOARD BEFORE ANY FINAL DECISION IS MADE." THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (9-0).
A RESOLUTION PROVIDING COMMENTS TO THE DURHAM-CHAPEL HILL-CARRBORO TRANSPORTATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON THE U.S. 15-501 MAJOR INVESTMENT STUDY, PHASE II REPORT. (2001-10-22/R-9)
WHEREAS, the Durham-Chapel Hill-Carrboro Transportation Advisory Committee has initiated a Major Investment Study for the U.S. 15-501 corridor between Durham and Chapel Hill; and
WHEREAS, the Phase II Report, reviewing possible fixed guideway alignments and technologies in the U.S. 15-501 corridor, has been completed; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Chapel Hill has participated in development of the Phase II Report; and
WHEREAS, the Town Council has reviewed the Phase II Report and recommendations of the U.S. 15-501 Major Investment Study Policy Oversight Committee;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill that the following comments and recommendations be provided to the Durham-Chapel Hill-Carrboro Transportation Advisory Committee:
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the following items should be addressed to complete the Phase II Report:
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the following items should be addressed in any further evaluation of the fixed guideway alternatives in the U.S. 15-501 corridor:
This the 22nd day of October, 2001.
COUNCIL MEMBER FOY MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER EVANS, TO REQUEST STAFF TO PROVIDE OPTIONS FOR THE COUNCIL TO CONSIDER WITH REGARD TO THE CORRIDOR FROM THE HORACE WILLIAMS TRACT THAT WOULD RELIEVE THE ANTICIPATED TRAFFIC CONGESTION IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF THAT TRACT, SPECIFICALLY THE NORTH, EAST AND POSSIBLY WEST AREAS OF THE HORACE WILLIAMS TRACT, BUT NOT TO THE MAIN CAMPUS.
Council Member Strom clarified that it would allow the Town staff to bring a possible corridor down to the Gateway Station. Council Member Foy said that he did not want to be too specific but that seemed like a logical place to get off and transfer.
THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (9-0).
Item 10 - Scheduling Consideration of a Proposed Ordinance
Requiring Posting of Signs at Private Lots
Town Attorney Ralph Karpinos explained that this is a proposal to require private property owners who have parking lots to post signs at the entrances to those lots warning people that they could have their cars towed if they do not have permission from the lot owner to park there. He said that citizens had been calling Town Hall after their cars had been towed, and there had been nothing in the Town's ordinances that the staff could use to protect people or give them warning. Then a bill had been introduced in the General Assembly, Mr. Karpinos explained, that would allow Chapel Hill and Greenville to require lot owners to post warning signs. Adopting R-10 would indicate the Council's intent to consider such an ordinance at its November 26th meeting, he said.
COUNCIL MEMBER EVANS MOVED, SECONDED BY MAYOR PRO TEM PAVAO, TO ADOPT R-10. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (9-0).
A RESOLUTION SCHEDULING CONSIDERATION OF A PROPOSED ORDINANCE REQUIRING PRE-TOWING NOTICE ON PRIVATE PARKING LOTS (2001-10-22/R-10)
BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Town of Chapel Hill that the Council will consider, at its November 26, 2001 meeting, enactment of an ordinance requiring private property owners to post warning signs in order to be able to tow cars parked on their properties without their permission.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Council directs that notice of this proposed ordinance be sent to persons who, by letter or otherwise, have indicated to the Town their concerns about towing of vehicles from private lots.
This the 22nd day of October, 2001.
COUNCIL MEMBER WIGGINS MOVED, SECONDED BY MAYOR PRO TEM PAVÃO, TO ADJOURN THE MEETING. THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY (9-0).
The meeting adjourned at 9:25 p.m.