TOWN OFI NEWLAND PUBLIC HEARING FEBRUARY 2, 2021 5:50PM  AGENDA POLICY CHANGE    Section 13. Overtime Pay Provisions  Employees of the Town can be requested and may be required to work overtime hours as necessitated by the needs of the Town and determined by the supervisor. To the extent that local government jurisdictions are so required, the Town will comply with the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). The Town Council shall determine which jobs are "non-exempt" and are therefore subject to the Act in areas such as hours of work and work periods, rates of overtime compensation, and other provisions. Non-exempt employees will be paid at a straight time rate for hours up to the FLSA established limit for their position usually 40 hours in a 7 day period). Employees in public safety job classes eam overtime based on a 28 day time period; overtime does In determining eligibility for overtime in a work period, only hours actually worked shall be considered; in no event will vacation, sick leave, or holidays be included in the Whenever practicable, departments will schedule time off on an hour-for-hour basis within the applicable work period for non-exempt employees, instead of paying overtime. When time off within the work period cannot be granted, overtime worked will Compensatory time off may be granted within the same pay period whenever feasible and determined by the Department Head. Law enforcement personnel shall be paid for overtime within the pay period or at the end of the next pay period. The Town Administrator, Public Works Director, and Chief of Police are "exempt" for the FLSA and shall work the number of hours necessary to assure the  not occur for personnel in law enforcement until 171 hours are worked.  computation of hours worked for FLSA purposes.  be given in the form of pay in accordance with thel FLSA.  salsfacloyperiomance oftheir normal duties.  15    TOWN OF NEWLAND PUBLICI HEARING JANUARY 5, 2021 5:50PM  PRESENT:  MAYOR: Valerie. Jaynes  ALDERMAN: Kenny Caraway, James C. Johnson, Christie Hughes  The Mayor declared the public hearing open at 5:50 pm. The hearing was held for the closing of A-Street alleyway adjacent to Town Hall and Bojangles. There were no public comments. The Mayor declared the  meeting closed at! 5:59 pm.  Mayor, Valerie. Jaynes  Clerk, Tammy Gardner    TOWN OF NEWLAND MONTHLY BOARD MEETING FEBRUARY2, 2020 6:00F PM  PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE PROPOSED AGENDA  APPROVAL OF PUBLIC HEARING MINUTES  APPROVAL OF MINUTES PUBLIC COMMENTS DEPARTMENT REPORTS OLD BUSINESS NEW BUSINESS    TOWN OF NEWLAND MONTHLY BOARD MEETING January5,2021 6:00PM  PRESENT:  MAYOR: Valerie. Jaynes ATTORNEY: Joe! Seegers (absent) GUESTS: Luke Barber STAFF:  ALDERMAN: Kenny Caraway, James C.. Johnson, Lauren Turbyfill, Christie Hughes, Dave Calvert  Lise Meinhardt, Keith Hoilman, Chief Byron Clawson, Colby Benfield,  Tammy Gardner  The Mayor called the meeting to order at 6:00 pm. The Mayor then led the audience in the pledge to the Kenny made a motion to accept the proposed agenda. Dave seconded the motion. All agreed by a show Dave made a motion to approve the December minutes. Kenny seconded the motion. All agreed bya Lise Meinhardt gave thei finance report. Lise stated Mrs. Randolph has put the audit papers in the mail. Colby Benfield gave the public works report. Colby stated there was a water break on Cranberry Street and they worked on it till 2:00 am. Colby also stated they used the new backhoe andi it worked really Keith Hoilman gave the administrators report. Keith stated Bojangles continues to move forward. Keith stated that O'Reilly Auto Parts have submitted plans to be approved for a new building.  American flag. of hands and stating I. show of hands and stating! I.  Chief Byron Clawson gave the police report. Chief Clawson went over notable calls.  well.  There was no old business.  In new business, Kenny made a motion to close A-street alleyway adjacent to Town Hall and Bojangles. Christie presented a gift from the town to. James C.. Johnson for being virtual Santa Clause. James made a motion to goi into closed session for personnel. Dave seconded the motion. All agreed by  Christie seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of hands and statingl.  a show of hands and stating! I.    Upon returning the Mayor announced no decision had been made. AWorkshop was set up for January James made a motion to adjourn. Christie seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of hands and  12th at 6:00 pm.  stating! I. Meeting adjourned at 7:30 pm.  Mayor, Valerie. Jaynes  Clerk, Tammy Gardner    TOWN OF NEWLAND WORKSHOP FEBRUARY: 28 5:30PM  AGENDA  HIRE PARTTIME WORKER FOR TAG OFFICE GO OVER PERSONNEL POLICY DRAFT    TOWN OF NEWLAND MONTHLY BOARD MEETING MARCH2, 2020 6:00PM  PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE PROPOSED AGENDA  APPROVAL OF PUBLIC HEARING MINUTES  APPROVAL OF MINUTES PUBLIC COMMENTS DEPARTMENT REPORTS OLD BUSINESS NEW BUSINESS    TOWN OF NEWLAND PUBLIC HEARING FEBRUARY2.2 2021 5:50PM  PRESENT:  MAYOR: Valerie. Jaynes  ALDERMAN: Kenny Caraway, James C.. Johnson, Christie Hughes, Dave Calvert, Lauren Turbyfill  STAFF:  Lise Meinhardt, Keith Hoilman, Chief Byron Clawson  The Mayor Pro-Tem declared the public meeting open at! 5:50 pm. The hearing was held for policy change. The policy change was for the Martin Luther King holiday and comp time. There were no public  comments. The Mayor declared the meeting closed at! 5:59 pm.  Mayor, Valerie. Jaynes  Clerk, Tammy Gardner    TOWN OF NEWLAND MONTHLY BOARD MEETING FEBRUARY2,: 2021 6:00PM  PRESENT:  MAYOR: Valerie. Jaynes ATTORNEY: Joe Seegers (absent)  ALDERMAN: Kenny Caraway, James C.. Johnson, Lauren Turbyfill. Christie Hughes, Dave Calvert  STAFF:  Lise Meinhardt, Keith Hoilman, Chief Byron Clawson  The Mayor called the meeting to order at 6:00 pm. The Mayor then led the audience int the pledge to the  American flag.  The Mayor delegated Keith Hoilman to take the February meeting minutes.  James made a motion to accept the proposed agenda. Dave seconded the motion. All agreed by a show James made a motion to approve the Public Hearing minutes. Lauren seconded the motion. All agreed James made a motion to approve the. January minutes. Christie seconded the motion. All agreed bya The Mayor recognized Dave Calvert. Dave started by explaining how he has been in management for over 30 years. Dave stated he would like clarification on whom asked for the special meeting. Christie stated she asked fori it. Dave asked for what reason it was needed. Christie stated to talk to the employee'si to see if they needed anything, ori if they could help ini any way. Dave stated according toi the law that would bei illegal. Lauren stated she agreed with it because shei thought it was a good ideal, the same as when they interviewed people or same mind state to be ablei to ask questions like what doesa normal dayl look like and is their anything to make your jobe easier. Lauren stated she seen in the policy book and personally felt like it was wrong, and she decided noti to have it. Dave stated the reason he questioned it was rumored from an informant or through town that it was to gather information to be able to dismiss the Town administrator. Dave stated hej just wanted to clarify that. James stated he was not looking to fire anyone. Dave stated when he emailed and did not receive a response he started reviewing and was afraid of doing something improper or illegal. Dave stated he would rather discuss things as they come out rather than letting them go. Dave stated to the board ift they get a chance to pull up the minutes from the last year to please do SO. Dave stated it was really good to see what has been accomplished. Dave: stated if something comes up to address it then. Dave stated he was not comfortable with the lawyer situation either. Dave stated we need to move forward. James stated that wanted to see what the employees were doing because every year they evaluated are for raises.. James  of hands and stating I.  byas show of hands and stating I. show of hands and stating I.    stated it was discussed about longevity at budget time. Raises were proposed at 3% but were given 1 and al half. James stated that was more oft the intent.. James stated no one was looking to fire or run anyone off. James stated that allt the employees work at the pleasure oft the board, Dave stated it was the Town administrator's) job to do evaluations and the board to do at format. Dave stated for them all to work together, not 2 or 3 board members. James stated he tried to contact Dave by text message.. James asked Dave if he had done the ethics class. Dave stated he was doing it.. James stated they should get together and figure out where the negativity is coming from. Dave askedi if there was al hidden agenda that he was not aware of. The mayor stated she wanted to address something, that one of the email responses wasi inaccurate andi inapproperate. The Mayor stated the email sent toi the administratorwas that they would call him if they needed him and he was not needed for the evaluations. The mayor stated she had been in contact with al lawyer andi it could have set up a lawsuit. The mayor said a chain of command needs to be set up and she would be happy to go to each employee to see what they need. The mayor stated she would be morei involved if that is what it takes, but she was sick of all the nickpicking going on. The Mayor stated it was a municipality: and it needs to be run like one. Lauren stated she has done al lot of praying about this and thinks they need a change of perspective. Lauren stated instead of looking at the person they need to look at that position. She stated it needed to be about the position and ifit is being done properly. Dave stated to come up with at formal format. Lauren stated that was done in the past, she has her note'sand: a man came and evaluated the employees and it should still be accurate. Keith stated it started ini a workshop to dot format and evaluations, but was never finished. Int the new draft version it was decided the department head would do evaluations, but not policy. Kenny stated he voted no because he was not comfortable evaluating employees on the job descriptions that they have. Kenny stated the department heads know what the employees do and should bei in charge of evaluations. Christie stated the board members should get know and understand thej jobs oft the employees and the employees better. The Mayor stated the need to take notes at each meeting and put unfinished business on the next agenda. The Mayor stated if anyone has something  against the other go talk and not leti it fester.  Chief Byron Clawson gave the police report. Chief Clawson went over all notable calls. Chief Clawson stated officer Fields and officer Queen attended Dangerous Crossroads 1* and 4th Amendment Issues. Chief Clawson attended Civil Unrest training with Sheriff Frye. Chief Clawson stated he completed the Keith Hoilman gave the administrators report. Keith stated Bojangles was at a standstill right now and it would probably be April. Keith stated that Oreilly'si is still a go and should close next month. Keith stated In old business: The Mayor stated int the last meeting we should have reappointed a Mayor Pre-Tem. Lauren made a motion to reappoint. James C.. Johnson as Mayor Pro-Tem. Dave seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of hands and stating I. Motion carried. Kenny discussed the job ofal Mayor Pro-Tem and asked. Jamesi if he was comfortable doing the thing a mayor doesi in case Valerie was absent. James In new business: James made at motion to accept the policy change of Chapter 13 and Martin Luther King Day. Dave seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of hands and stating I. Motion carried.  accreditation process for the Newland Police Department for safe communities.  there was other projects being looked at.  stated he was comfortable.    James stated at the next workshop there needs to be a policyi in place to protect the Town when they adjust water bills.. James stated they need to do a workshop on it, soaw workshop was planned for February 25th at 5:30 pm. Kenny asked about a system to be able to hear people better. Keith stated he had a couple ofe estimates. The board discussed doing an ethnic's training and training for the clerkalso. The board discussed getting a tv and being able to do zoom meetings. The mayor asked if the snow day situation was worked out.. James and Keith have set up a call to go out to the employees. Christie stated she went to Keith and told him she was sorry for anything int the past. Keith stated she did. Christie stated to the board to make this a new day and at fresh start over today. The board agreed. Christie made a motion to adjourn. Lauren seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of hands and  stating I. Meeting adjourned at 7:30 pm.  Mayor, Valerie. Jaynes  Clerk, Tammy Gardner    TOWN OF NEWLAND EMERGENCY MEETING MARCH25, 2021 6:30PM  PRESENT:  MAYOR: Valerie Jaynes ATTORNEY: Joe Seegers  ALDERMAN: Kenny Caraway, James Johnson, Lauren Turbyfill, Christie Hughes STAFF: Lise Meinhardt, Chief Byron Clawson, Colby Benfield, Tammy Gardner  The Mayor called the meeting to order at 6:30 pm.  Joe Seegers explained the water/sewer contract with Water Quality. James C. Johnson made a motion to accept the contract forwater/sewer with Water Quality. Lauren seconded the motion. All agreed by Colby explained to the board about adding an extra maintenance worker. James made a motion to hire af full-time maintenance worker 1. Lauren seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of hands and Christie stated she has an employment application that the Town might want to look at. The Mayor also James made a motion to go into closed session for personnel. Christie seconded the motion. All agreed  as show of hands and stating I. Motion carried.  stating I. Motion carried.  stated she had one too for the board to look over and decide what to use.  by a show of hands and stating I.  Upon returning from closed session, the Mayor announced no decision was made.  Kenny made a motion to adjourn. Christie seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of hands and  stating I. Meeting adjourned at 7:30 PM.  Mayor, Valerie. Jaynes  Clerk, Tammy Gardner    TOWN OF NEWLAND MONTHLY BOARD MEETING MAY 4, 2021 6:00PM  PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE PROPOSED AGENDA APPROVAL OF MINUTES PUBLIC COMMENTS DEPARTMENT REPORTS OLD BUSINESS (POLICY CHANGE ON TAXES) (CELLTOWER LEASE BUYOUT OPTIONS)  NEW BUSINESS  (ADMINISTRATOR SEARCH COMMITTEE)    TOWN OF NEWLAND EMERGENCY MEETING APRIL22, 2021 5:30PM  PRESENT:  MAYOR: Valerie. Jaynes ATTORNEY: Joe Seegers  ALDERMAN: Kenny Caraway, James C.. Johnson, Lauren' Turbyfill, Dave Calvert, Christie Hughes STAFF: Lise Meinhardt, Chief Byron Clawson, Colby Benfield, Tammy Gardner  The Mayor Pro Temp called the meeting to order at! 5:30 pm.  Dave made a motion to goi into closed session. Christie seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of  hands and stating I.  Upon returning to open session no decision was made.  James made a motion to go into closed session. Christie seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of Lauren made a motion to accept the decision Lise Meinhardt makes in the handling of the tag office. James made a motion to adjourn. Christie seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of hands and  hands and stating I.  Kenny seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of hands and stating I.  stating!.  Mayor, Valerie. Jaynes  Clerk, Tammy Gardner    TOWN OF NEWLAND MONTHLY BOARD MEETING APRIL6,2 2021 6:00PM  PRESENT:  MAYOR: Valerie Jaynes ATTORNEY: Joe Seegers (absent)  ALDERMAN: Kenny Caraway, James C. Johnson, Lauren Turbyfill, Dave Calvert, Christie Hughes  GUESTS: Vanessa Angrisani, Richard Trivette,  STAFF: Lise Meinhardt, Chief Byron Clawson, Colby Benfield, Tammy Gardner  The Mayor called the meeting to order at 6:00 pm. The Mayor then led the audience in the pledge to the James made a motion to approve the proposed agenda. Lauren seconded the motion. All agreed bya Lauren made a motion to approve the Public Hearing minutes. Christie seconded the motion. Alla agreed James made a motion to approve the Emergency Meeting minutes. Lauren seconded the motion. All James made a motion to approve the February minutes. Lauren seconded the motion. All agreed bya  American flag.  show of hands and stating I. Motion carried. bya a show of hands and stating I. Motion carried. agreed by a show of hands and stating I. Motion carried. show of hands and stating I. Motion carried.  In Public Comments:  The Mayor read the rules of public comments to the audience.  Vanessa Lawson. Angrisani spoke to the board about a street light that shines through her window at night and is very bright. Ms. Angrisani asked if maybe it could be fixed where it was not pointingi in her window. Ms. Angrisani also asked the board about a road or driveway behind her house. She statedi it has a lot of1 traffic and wanted to know if the Town maintained it. Colby stated he was always told the town did not maintain it.. James stated he would look intoi it.. James stated that a while back that light was put there because al lot ofhomeless people were ini the park. Colby stated he would seei if Mountain Electric could turn the light away from her window. The Board thanked Ms. Angrisani for coming to the  meeting.    Richard Trivette spoke to the board about having ai fundraiser in Newland for the DAV. Mr. Trivette stated it would be on Memorial Day from 81 till: 2 pm. The board agreed and thanked Mr. Trivette for Lise Meinhardt gave thet finance report. Lise stated she had closed out March and would be working on the budget. Lise stated she posted the ad for Maintenance Worker on Indeed and already had 3 applications. Lise stated it would run for 30 days free. Lauren asked the board if they could go ahead and Chief Byron Clawson, gave the police report. Chief Clawson stated there is currently an investigationofa Colby Benfield gave the public works report. Colby stated we are under contract with Water Quality. Colby stated thingsi ini town were, going good. Colby stated they were doing road maintenance now getting ready for paving int the next couple of weeks. Colby stated they were doing maintenance on the park and cleaning it up. Colby stated he had some quotes for the building on Sokassa Road. Christie asked about the bathrooms. Colby stated he had 2 contractors look at its so far. Colby explained to the  coming to the meeting.  plan a date fori interviews.  felony child-abuse case. D.S.S. was notified. There were no questions for the Chief.  board how he would like to do the bathrooms. The board agreed.  Inl New Business:  Kenny stated there should be a policy change on people paying their taxes, Kenny stated that after two years it should be turned over to the town attorney. Kenny stated that late fees and expenses should be added onto their bill fori them to pay. Kenny stated thati there are: some who will not even attempt to pay. Kenny stated that some make payments and try when others will not even try. Kenny stated the board would have to change the policy for the attorney to go farther to collect. James asked if the board needed to update the policy toi include this. Kenny stated yes if after two years they have not paid then the attorney needs to add on expenses and attorney fees to tax bill.. James stated he agreed but asked who writes the policy? Dave stated het thought. Joe did some for1 the county but was not completely sure but felt Joe could doi it.. James felt that was good but would like to have the policy to view before they vote on it. Kenny stated to ask. Joe. Christie stated to save money and not ask. Joe. Dave asked. Jamesif Kenny spoke to the board about the tag office expenses. Kenny stated that thet tag office runs ina deficient. Lise stated itr runs in deficient about 20,000 a year. Kenny stated the County pays for having the tag office but the town pays insurance and other things Kenny stated ifi it's not being matched the board needs to talk to the county to match it.. James stated that the girls could cross train and that would help to cover the expense, and to ask the County to help with the extra expenses. James stated it was a public service to the county. James stated the big picture is if1 they come for tags and license they The Mayor presented the new updated Charter for the High Country County Council of Governments to Kenny made a motion to approve the Resolution for Updated Charter for the HCCOG. Christie. seconded  he could see what County does.. James stated they would find out.  will probably stop and eat and buy in Town. Dave agreed it was good fori the Town.  the board.  the motion. All agreed by a show of hands and stating! I. Motion carried.    Lise asked to amend the budget fore expenses to move funds of 12,500 from general account to the James made a motion for the approval to amend the budget and to move 12,500 from one account to the other account. Dave seconded the motion. All agreed bya a show of hands and stating 1. Motion Lise asked the board for approval of the 2021 audit contract. Lise stated it was the 3rd year ofi this Kenny made a motion to approve the 2021 Audit Contract. Christie seconded the motion. Alla agreed bya The board discussed a raise for Colby Benfield. After discussion the board changed his title to supervisor. James made a motion to raise the public works supervisor salary to 37,440and the clerk/tax collector to 33,520. Lauren seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of hands and stating I. Motion carried. Lise presented al lease proposal from Crown Castle Towers for the board to look over.  police department account.  carried.  contract with Cindy Randolph.  show of hands and stating 1. Motion carried.  Christie stated she would like to give the maintenance boys some extrai time off asac one time bonus for Christie made a motion to put Lise Meinhardt in asi interim Administrator position. After discussion, James seconded the motion. Dave and Lauren agreed. Kenny voted no. Motion carried.  working through covid because of the circumstances.  Lauren asked about doing a Spring Fling on April 25th or May 15t.  James made a motion to adjourn. Dave seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of hands and stating  I.N Meeting adjourned at 8:00 pm.  Mayor, Valerie. Jaynes  Clerk, Tammy Gardner    Avery County Sheriff Cadets  eT Ou 828 Hofor CIo  Avery High JROTC Providing Concessions by  Donation  Cruise In' The Square 2021  April 30 May 28 June 25 July 30 August 27 September 24  Oct-Trunk or Treat TBA  Anything with Wheels or Motors Welcome Newland Town Square 5-9  Bryon Towler 828-200-5936 Follow on Facebook    TOWN OF NEWLAND MONTHLY BOARD MEETING JUNE: 1, 2021 6:00PM  PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE PROPOSED. AGENDA APPROVAL OFI MINUTES PUBLIC COMMENTS DEPARTMENT REPORTS OLD BUSINESS (CELL TOWER LEASE) NEW BUSINESS  (RESOLUTION TO ACCEPT AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT FUNDS)    TOWN OF NEWLAND MONTHLY BOARD MEETING MAY4, 2021 6:00PM  PRESENT:  MAYOR: Valerie. Jaynes ATTORNEY: Joe Seegers(absent)  ALDERMAN: Kenny Caraway, James C. Johnson(absent), LaurenT Turbyfill, Dave Calvert, Christie  Hughes  STAFF: Lise Meinhardt, Chief Byron Clawson, Colby Benfield, Tammy Gardner  The Mayor called the meeting to order at 6:00 pm. The Mayor then led the audience int the pledge to the Lauren made a motion to approve the proposed agenda. Christie seconded the motion. All agreed bya a Lauren made ar motion to approve the April minutes. Dave seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of Christie made a motion to approve the emergency meeting minutes. Kenny seconded the motion. All Chief Byron Clawson gave the police report. Chief Clawson expressed his concern for the loss of life in Watauga County. The board discussed different way of protection for the police department. Colby Benfield gave the public works report. Colby stated he had been catching up on things andi it was going well. Colby stated his new employee Jarod King! had: started working. Dave asked about the sidewalks. Colby stated he had ordered a new tool which would help clean the sidewalks. Colby and the board discussed moving more money over for paving since there is moret to be paved now. Lise Meinhardt gave the finance and administrator report. Lise stated she had hired two girls for the tag office, McKinsey full time permanent, Ginger full time temporary. Lise stated Couriney'smaterity leave ends June 25th. Lise stated that she had talked with Phillip Barrierand hel has sent Crystal Hicks overt to train the girls. Lise read a statement toi thel board concerning work and stated it was time for her to move on. Lise stated her last day would be. June 30th since she wanted to gol be with her children and stated her girls needed her. Lise stated she was thankful to the board members and felt she and the board members wanted what was best for the Town. Dave thanked Lise for all she has done. Lise stated Mr. Stephen Clemmons had called concerning the land beside him needing to be cleaned up. After  American flag.  show of hands and stating I. hands and stating I.  agreed by a show of hands and stating I.    discussion Lise stated she would check with County to see what they said. Kenny stated youl have to go Kenny stated he had talked with Phillip Barrier at County to see how they collected taxes. After discussion, Kenny made a motion to follow general statues for past due taxes and to give 30 days to schedule a payment ifa customer misses a payment, it will be turned over to the Town attorney for collection. Christie seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of hands and stating I. Motion carried. The board discussed hiring ofa a Town Administrator. The Budget workshop was set for May 27th at! 5:30. Kenny made ar motion to adjourn. Christie seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of hands and  by policy. The board discussed a workshop date for budget and town business.  stating I. Meeting adjourned at 7:30 pm.  Mayor, Valerie. Jaynes  Clerk, Tammy Gardner    TOWN OF NEWLAND MONTHLY BOARD MEETING JULY6,2021 6:00PM  PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE PROPOSED AGENDA APPROVAL OF MINUTES PUBLIC COMMENTS GREGGREENE (LOWES BUILDING) LAND PARTNERS DEPARTMENT REPORTS OLD BUSINESS (CELLTOWER LEASE) NEW BUSINESS    TOWN OF NEWLAND MONTHLY BOARD MEETING JUNE 1, 2021 6:00PM  PRESENT:  MAYOR: Valerie. Jaynes ATTORNEY: Joe Seegers  ALDERMAN: Kenny Caraway, Dave Calvert(absent) James C.. Johnson, Lauren Turbyfill,  Christie Hughes  GUESTS: Mark Scruggs, Luke Barber  STAFF:  Chief Byron Clawson, Colby Benfield, Tammy Gardner  The Mayor called the meeting to order at 6:00 pm. The mayor then led the audience in the pledge to the Kenny made a motion to approve the proposed agenda.. James seconded the motion. All agreed bya James made a motion to approve the May minutes. Christie seconded the motion. All agreed by a show Inl Public comments: Mark Scruggs discussed a new Sharp copier that would replace the old one the Town now has. Mr. Scruggs discussed the differences in this copier and how it would: save on ink. After discussion, Kenny made ar motion to accept the copier deal with Sharp. Lauren seconded the motion. All Chief Byron Clawson, gave the police report. Chief Clawson stated the department was doing well and the officers were starting to get some vacation time off.. James asked how the canine was doing. Chief Colby Benfield gave the public works report. Colby stated they had been doing street repairs. Colby stated they repaired the pump: station on Banner Hill. Colby stated he took at testi in! Hickory and the next test would bei in August. Coby stated thei inspection of the wastewater plant was coming up. Christie asked about the accident on the front porch oft the building. Colby stated he was taking the test in Hickory when it happened, but sent the boys to fix the porch, once back he checked to make surei it  American flag.  show of hands and: stating I. Motion carried. of hands and: stating I. Motion carried.  agreed bya a show of hands and stating I. Motion carried.  Clawson stated he was doing good.  was fixed. Everything about the accident was turned over to the Town attorney.    In old business: Thel board discussed the cell tower lease. James made a motion toi table the cell tower lease till the Town attorney could look over the lease. Christie seconded the motion. All agreed bya In new business: The Mayor asked about the Resolution to accept American Rescue Plan Act Funds. James made a motion to accept the American Rescue Plan Act Resolution. Kenny seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of hands and stating I. Motion carried. Kenny asked about paying Whitney Townsend her vacation pay. Christie stated she would rather goi into closed session to discuss that. The Mayor asked about signees on thei financial accounts. The Mayor stated they need to take Lise Meinhardt's name offt the financial accounts at the bank. Christie made a motion to drop! Lise Meinhardt from the financial accounts at the bank. James seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of hands and James made a motion to go into closed session for personnel. Christie seconded the motion. All agreed  show of hands and: stating I. Motion carried.  stating I. Motion carried. by as show of hands and stating I.  Upon returning to open session the Mayor announced no decision was made. motion. All agreed by a show of hands and stating . Motion carried.  James made a motion to advertise the Adminstrator/Finance Officer position. Lauren: seconded the Kenny made ai motion to pay Whitney Townsend her vacation pay. Lauren seconded the motion.. James Kenny made a motion to eliminate the part time person. Lauren: seconded the motion. James and Christie disagreed. The Mayor called thei tie. The Mayor stated the part time employee was told she Kenny made a motion to adjourn. James seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of hands and  agreed Christie did not agree. Motion carried.  could work till. June 24th. The Mayor stated she would let her float until then.  stating I. Meetinga adjourned at 7:30 pm.  Mayor, Valerie. Jaynes  Clerk, Tammy Gardner    TOWN OF NEWLAND PUBLIC HEARING JUNE 8, 2021 5:45P PM  PRESENT:  MAYOR: Valerie. Jaynes ATTORNEY: Joe Seegers (absent)  ALDERMAN: Kenny Carawaylabsent), James C. Johnson(absent), Lauren Turbyfill  Christie Hughes, Dave Calvert  STAFF:  Colby Benfield, Michael Fields, Tammy Gardner  The Mayor called the meeting to order at 5:45 pm. The board discussed the proposed budget for Christie made a motion to adjourn. Lauren seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of hands and  2021/2022. statingl.  Mayor Valerie Jaynes  Clerk, Tammy Gardner    TOWN OF NEWLAND SPECIAL MEETING JUNE 8, 2021 6:00 pm  PRESENT:  MAYOR: Valerie. Jaynes ATTORNEY: Joe Seegers(absent)  ALDERMAN: Kenny Carawaylabsent) James C. Johnson(absent) Lauren Turbyfill  Christie Hughes, Dave Calvert.  STAFF:  Colby Benfield, Michael Fields, Tammy Gardner  The Mayor called the meeting to order at 6:00 pm. by a show of hands and stating I. Motion carried.  Dave made a motion to approve the 2021/2022 fiscal budget. Christie seconded the motion. All agreed Christie made a motion to adjourn. Dave seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of hands and  statingl.  Mayor Valerie Jaynes  Clerk, Tammy Gardner    TOWN OF NEWLAND MONTHLY BOARD MEETING AUGUST3 3, 2021 6:00PM  PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE PROPOSED AGENDA APPROVAL OF MINUTES PUBLIC COMMENTS DEPARIMENTREPORIS OLD BUSINESS NEW BUSINESS    TOWN OFI NEWLAND MONTHLYBOARD! MEETING July6,2 2021 6:00PM  PRESENT:  MAYOR: Valerie. Jaynes ATTORNEY: Joe Seegers  ALDERMAN: Kenny Caraway, James C. Johnson, Lauren Turbyfill, Christie Hughes, Dave Calvert GUESTS: Ruth Shirley, Greg Greene, Mary H.. Johnson, Walt McRee, Kelton Lastein,  John Wayne Hughes, Luke Barber  STAFF:  Chief Byron Clawson, Colby Benfield, Tammy Gardner  The Mayor called the meeting to order at 6:00 pm. The Mayor then led the audience in the pledge toi the James made a motion to approve the proposed agenda. Christie seconded the motion. Alla agreed bya James made a motion to approve the. June minutes. Christie seconded the motion. All agreed by a show Greg Greene spoke to the board about the Town possible buying or leasing the Lowes building. Mr. Greene stated he wast talking with different people about leasing it now, but het felt it would be useful to the Town. Mr. Greene stated they were asking 1million! 51 for 7acres. He stated they would consider Ruth Shirley spoke to the board about a dog park. Miss Shirley stated she was taking her dog to Banner Elk to a park there and thought it would be ag good ideal to have one in Newland. The board agreed. James asked Colby to check intoi it. Dave asked about liability. The board agreed it was a good idea. Mary. Johnson from Land Partners spoke to the board about satellite annexation water for the property across from Mountain Glen. She presented the! board with maps and ideals of what they were planning to do if the Town could help with water. Mary stated they were looking at lodging and affordable housing fori the area. Phillip Barrier stated it was the future and he could see things going that way. John Hughes stated it would be a good thing. James and Christy both stated they were all fori it. Kenny asked about the cost. Colby stated they would have to get an engineer to come look at it for an amount. James stated thet town would be eligible for grants to pay fori it. Lauren asked about contracting the job out. Colby stated it would have tol be contracted out because there is no way the boys would have time to do  American flag.  show of hands and statingl I. of hands and stating I.  financing it. The board thanked Mr. Greene for coming.    that plus all their work now. Lauren asked if Mountain Gien would be part of the add on for water. James stated possibly, they would have to pay tap on fees, normal rates and city taxes.. Joe Seegers stated first they would need to get a signed request from individual property owners, and thent to get Chief Byron Clawson gave the police report. Chief Clawson went over the notable calls. Chief Clawson stated it had been a busy month. Christie thanked him for everything they did at the parade. Colby Benfield gave the Water works report. Colby stated it has been al busy month and they were slammed, but everything went well. Colby stated hel had passed his test and would be taking the other tests soon. Colby stated O'Reilly'si is scheduled to open in August. Colby stated they had a pump quit and they were looking for parts to get it fixed. Colby stated they were doing a couple of water tap on at Banner Hill. Colby stated he and. Jarrod would be doing a pesticide class issued by the state. Colby stated he would be out of town on the 16th and 19th.. James thanked Colby and stated they do a great job. Mayor Valerie. Jaynes gave thei finance report. Valerie stated: she had talked with a someone from North Carolina Reality about a $5000.00 grant to improve downtown. Valerie stated she would come do an assessment and tell them where to use thei funds. The board discussed the grant. Valerie explained situations with the board concerning the Qs1 system she isl learning. Valerie: stated: she has a call from municipalities concerning the job opening for Administrator and stated he knew someone who might take thej job.. James stated he knew him, and he would be good for thej jobifh he would take it.. James stated you need to be up straight with him and let him know hei is coming intoa mess. James made a motion to allow the mayor to proceed with the NRA grant for $5000.00.Lauren seconded the motion.. Alla agreed by a show of hands and stating I. Joe Seegers discussed the cell tower lease and stated not to doi it. Christie asked about signs or crosswalk for the ducks. Colby stated he The board discussed pay for Shelby Taylor and Mayor Valerie. Jaynes in thet finance office. Valerie stated shei talked with a couple of board members, and she is paying Shelby Taylor $25 an hour to do payroll and tax stuff. James asked who agreed to hire Shelby, Valerie stated she brought it upi in the meeting and no one said anything, and she was in a desperate position, sO she went ahead and hired her to do payroil since Shelby offered to help. Dave stated it did not matter because Valerie oversees day-to-day operations and did not need them. Valerie stated Shelby was doing payroll and Valerie stated she was paying bills and doing phone calls to change everything and take care of daily business. Kenny stated she should be compensated for her services. Christie stated she did not see how Shelby got hired without them, Dave stated he already addressed that before. Valerie stated Shelby did not want iti indefinitely, she was just helping out for a while. James asked ift the administrator, job had been posted yet. Valerie stated no; she was waiting on municipalities to give her the go ahead on thej job description. Alderman Kenny Carawayl left the meeting for! health reasons. Valerie Jaynes left the room while the board After discussion, Christie made a motion to appoint Shelby Taylor as interim finance officer. Dave Dave made ai motion to give Valerie. Jaynes $1000.00 compensation for the previous 4 weeks she has worked and moving forward $250.00 a week and work on getting an interim administrator. Christie  the engineer.  would look into it.  discussed the pay for her.. James C.. Johnson protem, stood in for the mayor. seconded the motion. Alla agreed by a show of hands and stating I.  seconded the motion.. All agreed by a show of hands and: stating I.    Christie made a motion to adjourn. Dave seconded the motion. All agreed bya a show of hands and  stating I. Meeting adjourned at 7:30 pm.  Mayor, Valerie Jaynes  Clerk, Tammy Gardner    TOWN OF NEWLAND MONTHLY BOARD MEETING SEPTEMBER7,2021 6:00PM  PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE PROPOSED AGENDA APPROVAL OF MINUTES PUBLICC COMMENTS DEPARTMENT REPORTS OLD BUSINESS NEW BUSINESS    TOWN OF NEWLAND MONTHLY BOARD MEETING AUGUST 3, 2021 6:001 PM  PRESENT:  MAYOR: Valerie. Jaynes ATTORNEY: Joe Seegers  ALDERMAN: Kenny Caraway, James C. Johnson (absent) Lauren Turbyfill,  Christie Hughes (absent) Dave Calvert.  GUESTS: Jamie Shell STAFF:  Chief Byron Clawson, Colby Benfield, Shelby" Taylor, Tammy Gardner  The Mayor called the meeting to order at 6:00 pm. The Mayor then led the audience in the pledge to the Kenny made a motion to approve the proposed agenda. Lauren seconded the motion. All agreed bya Dave made a motion to approve the. July minutes. Kenny seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of Chief Byron Clawson gave the police report. Chief Clawson stated the Police Standards Commission audited the department and they! had a good audit. The next audit would be int three years. Chief Clawson stated he was moving forward to fill the positions in his department and asked the board if they Colby Benfield gave the public works report. Colby stated one of the main pumps was down and it would cost $3000.001 to $5000.00t to fix. Colby stated he passed another test. Colby stated the paving had started and hel hoped to get all paved and patched soon. Colby stated he checked on prices fori the dog park. Colby stated the fence and post would be around $1000.00 for a: 100x100 lot. Colby stated he has complaints about people parking int the grass across from Mountain Heritage. After discussion the board agreed for Colby to talk with Mr. Ware about this. Colby asked the board about approval to purchase a building kiti for the Towns property and the having a contractor put it up. Thel kit is for the building and insulation, and they could concrete and finish in the winter months when they were not as busy. Colby Mayor Valerie. Jaynes gave the finance report. Mayor. Jaynes stated she ran the administrator adi in High Country Councils and Indeed and has a few applications. Mayor. Jaynes stated they received the grant for  American flag.  show of hands and stating!. hands and: stating I.  agreed. The board agreed.  stated it would save the Town money. The board agreed.    the home beautification they applied for. Mayor Jaynes stated she would set up an appointment to  meet with Hilary Greenburg the lady in charge to get that going.  There was no old business:  In new business: Mayor. Jaynes asked about moving Courtney up over the tag office and giving her the pay that comes with that position. Kenny stated she had been doing the job and there was not that much difference int the pay sO she should be able to move up. Kenny made a motion to move Courtney up and increase her pay to what' Whitney was making. Lauren seconded the motion. All agreed bya a The board discussed the yearly raise increases and al bonus for the employees since ity was not given in July. The board stated they would discuss al bonus later in the year. After discussion, Kenny made a motion to give a 3% pay increase across the board. Dave: seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of  show of hands and stating I.  hands and stating I.  The board discussed treat street and set a date of October 29th 4:001 till 8:00 pm.  Lauren stated she was absent from last month's meeting because of a stomach bug but attended by phone and dismissed herself when the discussion started about paying the Mayor backpay and pay for working ini the administrator office. Lauren stated: she was highly disappointed int the figure the board came up with to payl Mayor. Jaynes. Lauren stated it came out to $10.00 an hour and felt it was a slapi in the face for Mayor Jaynes after all the time she has put in. Kenny stated the mayor needs to let people know what days and time she is available. Lauren: stated the Mayor has had al lot to go through since there was no direction and had to call places to get things figured out. The mayor stated the people she called was very helpful and the nicest people, which it helped al lot. Dave stated its very unfortunate this happened to begin with, and the town is ini this predicament, Dave stated in his 30 years of management he has had to work al lot of hours so by default the position falls on the Mayor. Dave stated the money she gets is compensated for part of the time, and the other is for being the Mayor responsibilities. Dave: stated hopefully the town can get someone as soon as possible. Dave stated we The board discussed doing a workshop to go over applications fori the administrator's position, and seta Dave made a motion to adjourn. Lauren seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of hands and stating  need to get a committee together to start looking at applications.  date of August 11, 2021, at! 5:30 pm. I.M Meeting adjourned at 7:15 pm.  Mayor, Valerie Jaynes  Clerk, Tammy Gardner        TOWN OFI NEWLAND MONTHLYBOARD MEETING OCTOBER5 5, 2021 6:00PM  PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE PROPOSED. AGENDA APPROVAL OF MINUTES  APPROVAL OF SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES  PUBLIC COMMENTS DEPARTMENT REPORTS OLDI BUSINESS NEW BUSINESS    TOWN OFI NEWLAND MONTHLY BOARD MEETING AUGUST3,2021 6:00PM  PRESENT:  MAYOR: Valerie. Jaynes ATTORNEY: Joe Seegers  ALDERMAN: Kenny Caraway,James C.. Johnson (absent) Lauren Turbyfill,  Christie Hughes (absent) Dave Calvert.  GUESTS: Jamie Shell STAFF:  Chief Byron Clawson, Colby Benfield, Shelby Taylor, Tammy Gardner  The Mayor called the meeting to order at 6:00 pm. The Mayor then led the audience int the pledge to the Kenny made a motion to approve the proposed agenda. Lauren: seconded the motion. All agreed bya a Dave made a motion to approve the. July minutes. Kenny seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of Chief Byron Clawson gave the police report. Chief Clawson stated the Police Standards Commission audited the department and they had a good audit. The next audit would bei in three years. Chief Clawson: stated he wasi moving forward toi fill the positions in his department and asked the board ift they Colby Benfield gave the public works report. Colby stated one oft the main pumps was down and it would cost $3000.00 to $5000.001 to fix. Colby stated he passed another test. Colby stated the paving had started and he hoped to get all paved and patched soon. Colby stated he checked on prices for the dog park. Colby stated thet fence and post would be around $1000.00 for a 100x100 lot. Colby stated he has complaints about people parking int the grass across from Mountain Heritage. After discussion the board agreed for Colby to talk with Mr. Ware about this. Colby asked the board about approval to purchasea building kit for the Towns property and the having a contractor puti it up. The kiti is for the building and insulation, andi they could concrete and finish int the winter months when they were not as busy. Colby Mayor Valerie Jaynes gave the finance report. Mayor. Jaynes stated she ran the administrator ad in High Country Councils and Indeed and' has ai few applications. Mayor. Jaynes stated they received the grant for  American flag.  show of hands and stating I. hands and: stating I.  agreed. Thel board agreed.  stated it would save the Town money. The board agreed.    thel home beautification they applied for. Mayor. Jaynes stated she would set up an appointment to  meet with Hilary Greenburg the ladyi in charge to get that going.  There was no old business:  In new business: Mayor Jaynes asked about moving Courtney up over the tag office and giving her the pay that comes with that position. Kenny stated she had been doing the job and there was not that much difference in the pay sO she should be able to move up. Kenny made a motioni to move Courtney up and increase her pay to what Whitney was making. Lauren seconded the motion. All agreed bya a The board discussed the yearly raise increases and al bonus fort the employees since it was not given in July. The board stated they would discuss al bonus later in the year. After discussion, Kenny made a motion to give a 3% pay increase across the board. Dave seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of  show of hands and stating I.  hands and stating I.  The board discussed treat street and set a date of October 29th 4:00 till 8:00 pm.  Lauren stated she was absent from last month's meeting because of a stomach bug but attended by phone and dismissed herself when the discussion started about paying the Mayor backpay and pay for working int the administrator office. Lauren stated she was highly disappointed ini the figure the board came up with to pay Mayor. Jaynes. Lauren stated it came out to $10.00 an hour and felt it was a slapi in the face for Mayor. Jaynes after all the time she has put in. Kenny stated the mayor needs to let people know what days and time she is available. Lauren stated the Mayor has had a lot to go through since there wasi no direction and had to call places to get things figured out. The mayor stated the people she called was very helpful and the nicest people, whichi it helped al lot. Dave stated its very unfortunate this happened to begin with, and the town is ini this predicament, Dave stated in his 30 years of management he has had to work al lot ofH hours so by default the position falls on the Mayor. Dave stated the money she gets is compensated for part oft the time, and the other ist for being the Mayor responsibilities. Dave stated hopefully the town can get someone as soon as possible. Dave stated we The board discussed doing a workshop to go over applications for the administrator's position, and seta Dave made a motion to adjourn. Lauren seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of hands and stating  need to get a committee together to start looking at applications.  date of August 11, 2021, at 5:30 pm. I. Meeting adjourned at 7:15 pm.  Mayor, Valerie. Jaynes  Clerk, Tammy Gardner    TOWN OF NEWLAND SPECIAL MEETING AUGUST3,2021 6:00PM  PRESENT:  MAYOR: Valerie. Jaynes  ALDERMAN: Kenny Caraway, James C.. Johnson, Lauren Turbyfill, Christie Hughes  STAFF:  Chief Byron Clawson, Tammy Gardner  The Mayor called the meeting to order at 10:00 am. The Mayor then led the audience in the pledge to Kenny made a motion to open the special meeting for discussing applications, setting upi interviews, software, and budget amendments. James seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of hands and The board went through the applications and discussed the qualifications oft the applicants. After reviewing the applications, the Mayor then set up appointments for interviewing on September 14th. After discussion of the software program, Southern Software INC. Kenny made a motion to accept the proposal for Southern Software INC. Christie seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of hands and stating I.. James made a motion to buy a server for the new: software program. Christie seconded the After discussion to amend the budget, Kenny made a motion to move 100,000.00 from the contingency Kenny made a motion to adjourn. Christie seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of hands and  the American flag.  statingl.  motion. All agreed by a show of hands and statingl.  fund.. James seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of hands and: stating I.  stating! I.  Meeting adjourned at 12:30 pm.  Mayor, Valerie. Jaynes  Clerk, Tammy Gardner    TOWN OFI NEWLAND SPECIAL MEETING SEPTEMBER 18, 2021 10:00 AM  PRESENT:  MAYOR: Valerie Jaynes  ALDERMAN: Kenny Caraway, Christie Hughes, Lauren Turbyfill, Dave Calvert  James C.. Johnson(absent) Chief Byron Clawson, Tammy Gardner  STAFF:  The Mayor called the meeting to order at 10:10am. The board discussed the applicants for Town manager. Lauren stated to write downi the top picks to avoid al lot of discussion. Christie stated she was worried about the contingencies. Lauren agreed. Kenny stated that 80,000 was too much to payi fora a manager and would not bei fair to the Chief and other employees. After discussion Kenny made ar motion to offer Jeremy Gerrish the position of administrator. Lauren seconded the motion. Christie agreed bya Kenny stated he and Jamie discussed hiring Nancy. Johnson to dot thet finance job on a part time basis. The Mayor then called Jeremy Gerrish to see if he was still interested. Mr. Gerrish stated he was Kenny made a motion to adjourn. Christie seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of hands and  show of hand and stating I. Dave came to the meeting after the vote.  The Mayor stated she would get in touch with her. interested and could start September 27th. stating I. Meeting adjourned at 11:00 am.  Mayor Valerie. Jaynes  Clerk, Tammy Gardner    TOWN OF NEWLAND MONTHLY BOARD MEETING NOVEMBER: 2, 2021 6:00PM  PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE PROPOSED AGENDA APPROVAL OFMINUTES PUBLICCOMMENTS DEPARTMENT REPORTS OLDI BUSINESS (EMPLOYEE CHRISTMAS BONUS)  NEW BUSINESS    TOWN OF NEWLAND MONTHLY BOARDI MEETING OCTOBER5, 2021 6:00PM  PRESENT:  MAYOR: Valerie. Jaynes ATTORNEY: Joe Seegers(absent)  ALDERMAN: Kenny Caraway,lames' C. Johnson, Lauren Turbyfill, Dave Calvert, Christie Hughes GUESTS: Alena Stair, Nancy Johnson, Derek Roberts, Marisa Mecke (Avery. Journal)  STAFF:  Jeremy Gerrish (phone) Chief Byron Clawson, Colby Benfield, Tammy Gardner  The Mayor called the meeting to order at 6:00 pm. The Mayor then led the audience in the pledge to the James made a motion to accept the proposed agenda. Christie seconded the motion. All agreed bya a James made a motion to accept the August minutes. Kenny seconded the motion. All agreed by a show Kenny made al motion to accept the special meetings minutes. James seconded the motion. All agreed In Public Comments, Alena Stair spoke to the board about traffic on Shady Street since the camper site was put on the old US Textile property. Alena stated they were told access would come from the main highway, but it has been coming through Shady Street. She stated Tommy Burleson said it would be modeled like down by the river campground and she was concerned it would end up being at trailer park with permanent: structures. Alena stated big trucks have come through atr night and used the jake brake and kept them awake. Alena stated she wanted to know about policy or what could be done. James stated they would looki into it but his understanding that trafficwould come from the other entrance from the main highway. James asked the Chief to use extra patrol on Shady Street and no tractor- Alena stated there was a rusty piece of medal sticking out at the park. Colby stated he would take care Chief Byron Clawson gave the police report. Chief Clawson went over all notable calls. Chief Clawson stated they wrote and executed two search warrants this month. Chief Clawson stated Officer Ahneman made it through field training andi is working a shift. Officer Mace is still in field training and: should be  American flag.  show of hands and: stating I. of hands and stating I.  by a show of hands and stating I.  trailers. The board thanked her for coming.  ofit.    done very soon. Christie stated she has reçeived al lot of calls on speeders int town, mainly on the four Colby Benfield gave the public works report. Colby stated they had worked on leaks this month and still had one at the hardware store but is waiting on parts and Iron Mountain is scheduled tol help them. They had 2 hydrants break. Colby stated they did 4 water/sewer taps and two more to get before winter. Colby stated the had the building ordered and should be here ini two weeks. Colby stated it costed 31,000.00 and hoped to get it upl before winter. Colby stated he would like to sale the old dump truck which is a: 1985 f800 Ford.. James made a motion fori the public works supervisor to sell the 1985 f800 ford dump truck on Gov deals for a starting price of $4000.00. Kenny seconded the motion. All Colby asked the board ift they wanted to repair the old salt spreader for $2400.00 or buy a new one for $5800. Thel board told Colby to get the new one. Colby stated he thought $6000.00 was placed int the budget for the spreader. Colby asked the board ift there was anything that maybe he looked over on policy fort the new camper lots on Shady Street, Colby stated now they have one water/sewer hookup and will need another. Colby stated hej just wanted to make sure with policy he was doing things right. James stated it says in policy there can't be any permanent campers, and these will be pullingi ina and out.. James stated he was excited about camper site, and hei thought it was a good thing and would bring al lot of people to Newland. Kenny stated he agreed and had been over there looking and the plans fori it to put shade trees in there. Kenny stated ift the plans work out, he feels it would be a great asset for the town. Colby handed the board applications for the maintenance worker to the board to review. Colby stated hel had looked over them but was afraid they would not takei it based on the pay. Christie stated she would not be willing to offer anyone more than what they started. Jarod out with and did not feel  lane. Chief Clawson stated he would have the officers watch out for them.  agreed by a show of hands and stating I. Motion carried.  that wasa a factor in his leaving. In old business:  Kenny stated that he understood there was going to be some carpet work done in the town hall, Kenny stated that any department head could spend up to $500.00, over thati iti ist to be agreed upon from the board. Kenny stated the board did not agree on purchasing carpet for the Town hall. Kenny stated there was too much going on right now and should not do the carpet.. James stated he was fine with postponing it until the new administrator could be here. Christie stated the carpet was not a priority and it just needed to be cancelled since no motion was ever made oni it. James asked ifac deposit has been placed, the mayor stated yes $5200.00. The Mayor stated the estimate was placed before them at: a special meeting and all seemed to agree.. James stated it would need to be done at a regular meeting. The regular meeting was canceled for September, no quorum. James asked Colby whena good time would bet for him to help with the carpet. James stated to let the Mayor check into at time for rescheduling. Shelby stated that a moving crew would come and move things out so the boys would not have to help with it. Shelby stated the quote they gave her had moving thet furniture added in. Kenny asked Shelby if she got the quote. Shelby stated yes. Christie stated the point being that her and. James discussed it, but ity was not approved. The board agreed to let the new administrator handle it when he returns. The Mayor stated she would call the carpet company and put it on hold till the town administrator could handleit.. Jeremy stated for her to send him the contact  information and he would take care ofi it.    In new business:  The Mayor asked about policy for covid. Lauren stated it should be like the county does.. James stated that the rules for covid aret the same as the county's rules. James told Colby to call health department and get a copy.Jeremy: stated he called the county manager and health departments, and he: should Jeremy stated he was having al hard time getting things since no one realizes he works for the town and asked ift the board could get that information out. Marisa Mecke of the Avery. Journal stated they would Kenny stated there was a resume inf front of everyone for Nancy. Johnson. James made a motion to go into closed session, no one agreed. Kenny made a motion to offer the position to Nancy. Johnson for finance officer on a part time basis at $22.00 an hour. Christie seconded the motion. Lauren asked if they went into closed: session could Mrs.. Johnson bei in closed session also. The board stated she could. Christie stated there was a motion on the table. James stated to Kenny they need to goi into closed session first that that he would get where he wanted, but first they had to take care ofs something. James made ar motion to go into closed session for personnel. Lauren seconded the motion. All agreed  have some guidance in the next day or two.  do an article on him.  Motion tabled to go into closed session for personnel.  by a show of hands and stating I.  Upon returning from closed session the Mayor announced no decision was made.  Shelby Taylor announced: she would be resigning as finance officer on October 31s to be able to put moret time back into Taylors Taxes, since it would be starting her tax season. James asked Shelby ifs she Christie made a motion to appoint Nancy. Johnson as finance officer on a part time basis to work with Shelby Taylor a couple of times to learn payroll, then work with. Jeremy on a schedule. Kenny seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of hands and stating I. Motion carried. Lauren stated: she felt like there James made a motion to adjourn. Kenny seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of hands and  would help Nancy with learning payroll. Shelby stated: she would.  had been some major collusion, but all was good. stating I. Meeting adjourned at 7:30 pm.  Mayor, Valerie Jaynes  Clerk, Tammy Gardner    TOWN OF NEWLAND MONTHLY BOARD MEETING DECEMBER7,2021 6:00PM AGENDA  PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE PROPOSED AGENDA APPROVAL OF MINUTES PUBLIC COMMENTS DEPARTMENT REPORTS OLD BUSINESS NEW BUSINESS    TOWN OF NEWLAND MONTHLY BOARD MEETING NOVEMBER 6, 2021 6:00PM  PRESENT:  MAYOR: Valerie. Jaynes ATTORNEY: Joe Seegers  ALDERMAN: Kenny Caraway, James C.J Johnson, Lauren Turbyfill, Christie Hughes, Dave Calvert  GUESTS: John Baer, Jamie Shell, Derek Roberts, Neal Avery  STAFF:  Chief Byron Clawson, Michael Fields, Colby Benfield, Tammy Gardner  The Mayor called the meeting to order at 6:00 pm. The Mayor then led the audience int the pledge to the James made a motion to approve the proposed agenda. Dave seconded the motion. All agreed bya Christie Hughes did not approve the minutes. Christie stated the clerk did not put int the minutes that she stated she asked for finance records from the Mayor. Dave made a motion to accept the minutes with the correction.. James seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of hands and statingl.  American flag.  show of hands and stating! I.  There were no public comments.  John Baer asked the board about planting apple trees in the park. Mr. Baer stated he has two trees now. Colby stated that was fine as long as they were back al little because of bees. Lauren statéd maybe he could ask some hunters to pick up the apples to help thei town. Mr. Baer: stated that later he may add some blueberry and raspberry trees int the park also. Lauren stated that was fine and they would talk about the money for them later. James made a motion to let. John Baer put the two donated apple trees int the park. Kenny seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of hands and stating! I. Chief Byron Clawson gave the police report. Chief Clawson went over the notable calls. Chief Clawson stated that Lazlo had done it again. Chief Clawson stated that Lazlo was on duty and helped the officers make a drug arrest. Officer Ahneman made the traffic: stop and Officer Fields brought Lazloi to the scene, and he altered the presence of a controlled substance.. James told Officer Fieids he was very proud of him and Officer Lazlo.. James asked how many arrests has Officer Lazlo assisted in? Michael stated six.. James asked the chief to write up a commendation letter to put in Michael 's and Lazlo's chart. Chief Clawson stated he would write that up and put in their personnel file.    Colby Benfield gave the public works report. Colby stated theyl had four leaks in the last month that were taken care of. Fixed old wells with help from Carolina Water. There is al leak near hardware in which the parts are ordered. Colby stated they were having trouble getting the parts.. James stated he appreciated Colby and all the guys for all they do, and that the county was dealing with the same on metal and steel. The company can not get any to order from. Colby stated they sold the 1990 F3501 for $5000.00. Colby stated they were waiting for at title, and he would sell the other one. Colby stated the new! building should be here this week or next. Colby stated with the setting up of the building it would go over budget.. James stated that maybe he should wait till after the truck is sold.. James asked Jeremy what het thought.. Jeremy stated the board should give him and Colby discretionary authority on sale of the vehicle to move forward to contract the building, sO we do not have to wait till the next meeting. James stated that was a great ideal. Kenny asked if that was to complete the building. Colby stated it was not for the concrete, just posts, medal andi insulation up. Colby stated the plan was to get the building up andi int their spare time they would work on the plumbing and electrical. Lauren made a motion pending sale oft the vehicle, to allow. Jeremy and Colby to complete the building. James seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of hands and stating I. Colby stated him and. James got their water and sewer research done on the water license. Colby stated he had at ton of applications and talked to some good candidates, but the pay: seems tol be an issue. Colby stated he needed to know if they were going to up the pay or leave it where iti is at. Lauren asked where. James and Mark are. Colby stated James was at $16.45, and Mark was $14.85. Colby stated the last employee was hired at $13.25. Colby stated he expressed to them the package that come withi that. Dave stated he understood the point, but they would not find that package anywhere. Dave stated that in the future they would have to look at that with inflation going up.. James stated to. Jeremy they did a payroll study and asked. Jeremy to look overit. Colby stated he had two people with experience, and one with certifications. James stated to get with Jeremy andi interview the one with certifications. Lauren asked Colby what his pay was, Colby stated $20.00 even. Lauren stated the Christmas parade would be December 4th on Saturday at 6:00 p.m. Lineup at! 5:30: starting ati the: square. James stated there should be prizes for thei top three floats. The Mayor gave the finance report. The Mayor gave thel board financial statements. Christy stated that was fine but too late. The Mayor stated: she sent an email to Lisa Randolph about the audit on. July 22 and Lisa never responded back. The Mayor stated after a while she contacted her again in which Lisa stated: she did not see the email. The mayor stated Lisa had messed up there. The Mayor stated she did not send Nancy's! letter of resignation out to the board because Nancy stated she gave the mayor one and the clerk al letter, but she did not send the board one stating the mayor could tell the board if she wanted too. The Mayor stated by then the board already knew about it. The mayor stated that she had been keeping hert time sheets from day one. The Mayor told the board she was tired oft their BS. The mayor stated she had worked her butt off, but the board members had been al bunch of butts about it. The Mayor stated to the board how many times have they not responded to her emails. Christie calleda point of order. The Mayor stated she would call the point of order; she was the Mayor. The Mayor stated to Christie that she called the carpet place and cancelled the carpet when. Jeremy was supposed to handle that. Lauren stated the Mayor was doing the Administrator job and when there is no administrator the Mayor does thej job. Christie stated no its not." The Mayor stated: she was tired of being disrespected and talked: about like a dog. Christie stated point of order. The Mayor called a point of order and stated she was not going to say another word. Lauren asked about Christmas bonuses for the employees. Jeremy asked what was int the budget for the bonuses. Jeremy stated he would start with  Lauren stated it would be cash.    the dollar amount in the budget, then work with department heads. Lauren stated last year they gave them in. July. Christie stated that this year they were given a 3%1 raise, sO they didn'tgeta a bonus in. July. Jeremy explained to the board about payroll support. Jeremy proposed to the board a company called ADP.. Jeremy: stated he was working with someone fromi the company to start doing payroll for thei town. Jeremy stated it would cost $450.001 for1 three months, and this would help and give time with this transition. James made a motion to accept Jeremy's proposal to ADP for at three-month contract for $450.00. Kenny asked when ity would start. Jeremy stated next week but he would need the Mayor and Shelby'shelp getting things put into the system. Dave: seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of hands and stating I.. Jeremy stated he would also like to talk to them about a wage/hour study thati is current. Jeremy stated that financial record keeping and year to date cleanup was something that could be contracted out.. Jeremy stated he was talking to a company about this. Jeremy stated he had three different groups to come meet with him to discuss what can be done. James stated it was a wonderful ideal. Jeremy asked that he be given discretionary funding approval of $5000.00 to retain someone. James made a motion to try to get a company in here to catch up everything. Kenny asked if the money was coming out oft the general fund or where would it come from. Jeremy stated that since there has been no finance officer or administrator, there should be funds already for that. Lauren seconded the Dave excused himselfi from the meeting. James thanked Dave for his service. Dave told the board to James made a motion to go into closed session for personnel. Kenny seconded the motion. All agreed by  Jeremy stated he would get back with the board after lookinge everything over.  motion. All agreed by a show of hands and stating! I.  respect each other. as show of hands and stating I.  Upon returning from closed session the Mayor announced no decision was made.  Kenny stated now that wel have an administrator and payroll taken care of, Kenny made a motion to eliminate the Mayors $250.00 a week. Lauren asked. Jeremy if he heard the recommendation from Kenny' where Kenny made a motion to eliminate the $250.00 a week for the mayor forv who has been paying bills and doing the administrator business that. Jeremy has not been able to. Lauren asked Jeremy where he stood with this motion. Jeremy stated he was going to need help and since the Mayor has been doing the bills, she would be the one: to help him for at least two weeks. Jeremy added please don'ttake away the only trainer. Kenny stated there is a motion on the table, any second? Christie seconded the motion. James agreed. Lauren stated you all are really good people. Lauren stated amazing and good luck. Jeremy with that. Lauren stated to. Jeremy that the mayor would help him anyway because shel has a good heart and that is the way she is anyway. Kenny stated he had one more question about the carpet and where does the town stand oni this. Christie stated she called and put it on hold. Jeremy stated he would look into it this week. Jeremy: stated he would see when they could start the project. Kenny stated it was a board decision. Kenny stated it was ordered by someone who isa part-time employee and a down payment was made.. Jeremy stated he would look into it and figure out James asked about public comments. Derek Roberts stated he had a question. Joe Seegers stated that  how to move forward.. Joe Seegers stated if he needed help to give him a call. the Mayor already asked for public comments and to move on.    Lauren made a motion to adjourn. Christie seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of hands and stating I. All agreed bv as show of hands and stating!. Meeting adjourned at 7:30 pm.  Mayor, Valerie. Jaynes  Clerk, Tammy Gardner    TOWN OF NEWLAND MONTHLY BOARD MEETING JANUARY 4, 2021 6:00PM AGENDA  PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE PROPOSED AGENDA APPROVAL OF MINUTES PUBLICI COMMENTS DEPARTMENTI REPORTS OLDI BUSINESS NEW BUSINESS (ROCK WALL ON RIVERWALK)    TOWN OF NEWLAND MONTHLY BOARD MEETING DECEMBER7,2021 6:00PM  PRESENT:  MAYOR: Derek Roberts ATTORNEY: Joe Seegers (absent)  ALDERMAN: Kenny Caraway, James C. Johnson(absent) Lauren Turbyfill, Christie Hughes, Gail Haller GUESTS: Maria Roberts, Jeremy Huffman, Little Charlie, Kyler Johnson, Tatum Hall, Isaac Hall,  Sandy Lewis, Anne Wiakelman, Robin Morgan, Lee Buchanan, Nathan Gittner, Dave Calvert, Christy Ray, Gerald Mckinney, Donetta Mckinney, Vicki Caraway,  Roxanna Robertson, Clara Dickson  STAFF:  Jeremy Gerrish, Chief Byron Clawson, Michael Fields, Colby Benfield, Tammy Gardner  Jeremy Gerrish brought the meeting to order at 6:00 pm. The Clerk then swore the new Mayor Derek Roberts into office. The Clerk then swore into office the Alderman Lauren Turbyfill and Gail Haller. The Kenny made a motion to accept the proposed agenda. Christie seconded the motion. All agreed by a Lauren made a motion to accept the November minutes. Christie seconded the motion. All agreed bya Inp public comments: Lee Buchanan announced he would be running for Avery County sheriff. Mr. Buchanan stated he was the only one who has filed sO far, and the election will be March gth. Dave Calvert spoke to the board about putting more money into the Town. He also spoke with the county commissioners, at their meeting concerning this. Dave asked the board why we use Mountain Electric to put up the snowflakes at Christmas. Dave stated that ai few years ago they received a grant to put in beautiful sidewalks and lights on streets, but the town failed to keep the bulbs ini them. He stated they failed to clean the sidewalks and maintain them. Dave stated he asked the county the same thing and why they subsidize thei tag office, but no one had any answers only that it helps the county. Dave stated he wanted them to subsidize some of the police department expense, so it would leave money to fix up thet town. Dave: stated a wall near on the riverwalk needs to be repaired before it causes an accident, and someone gets hurt. The Mayor stated that's why he wanted to be mayor to help get the  Mayor called the meeting to order. show of hands and stating I. show of hands and stating I.  town fixed back and thanked Dave for coming.    Chief Byron Clawson gave the police report. The Chief statedi it had been a busy month. The Chief went over the notable calls. The Chief asked fora a commendation for Officers Fields and Ahroman to be placed int their files. Lauren made a motion to place commendation letters int the officer's personnel files. Christie seconded the motion. All agreed by a show of hands and stating I. Chief Clawson told the board about a grant he will receive to fund his project, the Newland Safety Equipment. Christie stated that Ruth Shirley was impressed and thanked the police officers for1 the way they handled a situation. Colby Benfield gave the public works report. Colby stated it had been a busy month. Colby stated all the Christmas decorations were up. Colby stated they have started building the new maintenance building. Colby stated Iron Mountain would bel here next week to fixa a leak. Colby stated hel has interviewed: a few applicants. The mayor asked if the concrete had been poured yet. Colby stated no because the way the proposed iti in the budget was to get the shell and next budget the concrete. The Mayor asked when the next budget was, and the board stated. July. Kenny stated on a major thingl like this they budget it out instead of doingi it all at once in case other things come up. Kenny asked about thet truck for sale. Colby stated it was on Govdeals and would be on till next Monday. Colby statedi theyl had al lot of hits and should get good money fori it. Colby hoped it would help with cost on the building. Jeremy Gerrish gave the administrator report.. Jeremy stated he made packets for everybody. Jeremy stated they were seeking three updated quotes for the bathrooms. Jeremy went over the errori in pay for the last payroll.. Jeremy stated ADP recognized their error and paid all the employees back. Jeremy stated original cost was $150.00 per cycle but since the amount of personnel and adding the clock in it will cost $112.00 per cycle.. Jeremy stated bonuses were distributed before the Thanksgiving Holiday. Jeremy stated he was still trying to familiar himself with employees and financials. Jeremy stated he was working in the finance office to gett things caught up.. Jeremy stated that after review, he could report to the board that revenue is fine, daily deposits are being put into the bank, check registers are fine, what's not fine is the financial reports. Revenue has not been puti into the system but trying to get that in. All money isi in the bank. Jeremy stated next, he wanted to work on employee files and get them up to date. Jeremy stated he would be scheduling mandatory ethnics training in February. Jeremy went overi the financials with the board. Kenny asked about the new software. Jeremy stated he would bet talking to a repi from there in the next week. Lauren stated she would like to recognize Chief Byron Clawson and commend him forv what he does in the police department. All gave al handclap for the chief. Christie asked where we are on the carpet deal. Jeremy stated in thel last town meeting he was asked to investigate and how to move forward.. Jeremy stated a scheduled date for December was made and half the carpet has been paid. The mayora asked if it could be moved to. January to wait on legal counsel. Christie stated there was a mix up on legal council he will be here next meeting. Jeremy asked if Mr. Seegers would be here, Christie stated no, Mr. Grindstaff willl be here. Jeremy stated Mr. Seegers ist the town attorney. Christie stated right now, but they will be moving ina a different direction. Christie stated she would be bringing a vote in the next meeting. Jeremy stated Mr. Grindstaff came to his office and askedi if Mr. Seegers was retiring and asked if there were agenda items to remove him from that position, and was concerned that there was an undercurrent or under the desk personnel vendetta against Mr. Seegers and stated he wanted no part ofi it. Jeremy stated he was unaware of any of this. Kenny stated he talked with Mr. Seegers and gave him al heads up and an opportunity to decide and not be embarrassed int the meeting. Jeremy stated he was the one embarrassed when the attorney came in and he had no ideal about it.J Jeremy stated thel lack of communication can cause problems. The mayor stated that he was going to put a stopi to all the lack of communication. The mayor stated he was not    here for any of that. The mayor stated if the board wishes to remove the attorney, they all need toi talk about it. The mayors stated he did not realize. Jeremy did not know. The mayor stated they need to go to Jeremy and follow the chain of command. Kenny asked. Jeremy his schedule forv work with alll his health problems, if someone need to see him, when could they expect to do that.. Jeremy stated when the town hall is open. The mayor asked. Jeremy if he was pretty clear from his health right now.. Jeremy stated no sir. The Mayor asked if he still hasi issues going on, which. Jeremy stated yes sir. The mayor stated we have to close this carpet deal and where does it stand. The mayor stated that someone from our town representing themselves rightfully or not, there has been carpet cut and ready to install since September. The mayor stated it was ridiculous itl has taken this long to settle this. The mayor stated it was embarrassing and disappointing. Lauren stated that in a special meeting. James asked where we are on this carpet deal and stated we need to get started on that. Lauren stated employees knew about it and was asking. Lauren stated her mom, being the good person she is, said if that's what they wanti to dot then we will do it. Lauren stated that is how it got started. Lauren stated the previous mayor was trying to do a roll: she wasi not prepared for. Lauren stated she was trying to do from the goodness of her heart buti in turn was made out to be a criminal, but shei is not. Derek stated he had a problem with the former mayor of 16 years not calling. Jones's carpet right here in town. The mayor stated the second problem that a part time employee is listed on the invoice and does not have a right to do it without asking the board. The mayor: stated they talked with the town attorney andi if some oft the board want it investigated bys someone else then go to the sheriff's office, the mayor stated it won't by our police office. The mayor stated, Derek Roberts the new mayor wants to move forward. The mayor stated the carpet is coming whether it's the 18th or January. The Mayorstated he respected Kenny and asked fora genuine conversation about it. Kenny stated the way this thing happened was we had a meeting here to look at applications to hire an administrator. Kenny stated that. Jamie. Johnson stated they wanted carpet in here, Kenny stated at a special meeting you can only discuss what the meeting is for. Kenny stated it needed to be brought upi in ar regular meeting. The meeting was cancelled for September since no one could bet there. Kenny stated the carpet was ordered the 7th of September, and looking at the invoice, the part time employee with her personnel number ordered this carpet and invoice showed check for $5200.52 for a down payment. Kenny: stated that al budget of $500.00 had been set in place for department heads to spend without asking the board, but over that they had to approve it by the board. Kenny stated it needed to bei took care ofr now. Kenny stated the mistake need to be rectified through legal counsel. Kenny stated he did not see that we needed carpet. The mayor stated it was a done deal and the check has already been written. The mayor asked Kenny what he wanted because if they did not go ahead and get the carpet, they would lose the money already spent. The Mayor stated he was not going to tell the residents in Newland that $5000.00 was just spent in Tennessee for nothing. Lauren asked Kenny it was for the betterment of thet town in any way to make al big deal out of it, orwas itk better for the employees toj just get the carpet. Jeremy stated from a standpoint, he'sa carpet guy and hel has a contract with have ofit paid and the people renig, I'm going to sue. Jeremy stated his council to the boardi is to move forward with the carpet. Jeremy stated he was noti forgiving the past wrongs, Jeremy stated he happened before he took the. job and has no dogs in this fight.. Jeremy stated his advice is you open yourself up to legal problems by not following through with the carpet. Jeremy stated he spoke with Mr. Seegers. Lauren asked what advice Mr. Seegers gave him. Jeremy stated Mr. Seegers told him to share responsibility in a contract. The mayor stated it was a contract. Lauren made a motion to continue on with the installation oft the carpet and pay the remainder to the carpet company. Gail Haller seçonded the motion. Kenny Carraway and Christie Hughes opposed he motion. The mayor stated    hev wanted to move on. The mayor broke the tie and stated he wanted to move forward. Jeremy stated that December 7th was not nearly enough time to close the books and get financials ready and asked if the board would want to change the meeting date. Kenny stated what does the charter say. Kenny stated they! had always didi it on first Tuesday oft the month at 6:00 according to the charter.  The mayor asked for old business. There was no old business.  The mayor asked for new business.  The mayor stated he wanted to talk about the police department. The Mayor stated they have to get the numbers in line with everyone else int the county. The mayor: stated paying part time people $10.00 dollars an houri is ridiculous. The mayor stated he had spoken with Kenny, Jeremy and Christie and the Chief about coming up to pars since they are the lowest paid int the town. The Mayor stated he wanted to start putting the offenders' names in the paper. The mayor stated he would be working on getting them more money and a sixth officer. The mayor read al letter from a resident talking about howi the town is falling apart. The mayor stated he would meet with Colby about ways to get the town cleaned up. Colby stated thei things holding him back was budget and help. The mayor stated the pay for maintenance needed to be addressed. The mayor asked Colby toi find places to put Christmas trees to decorate the town. Kenny stated back to pay and going to Bojangles for 15 dollars an hour, the town gives a retirement package on top of their salary and health insurance. Kenny stated we arei in at town and1 trying to look after the citizens without going up on their taxes. The mayor: stated he was not going up on the taxes, he wanted to look at the budget and find a way there instead of paying $13.00 an hour Nanthan Gittner from the audience spoke. Mr. Gittner stated the Shadylawn will pay for the Chief's expense for the Chief's Association. Mr. Gittner stated he would be carrying on the tradition of the Lauren stated she put an event together at the Rock gym on Saturday, December 11 from 3:001 till 7:00,  when Bojangles pays $15.00 anl hour.  Shadylawn. The Mayor thanked Mr. Gittner. and will have al lot ofv venders.  The Mayoradjourned the meeting at 7:30 pm.  Mayor, Derek Roberts  Clerk, Tammy Gardner