Salisbury, North Carolina October 17,2023  REGULAR MEETING  PRESENT: Mayor Pro Tem Tamara Sheffield, Presiding; Council Members Harry  McLaughlin, David Post, and Anthony Smith; City Manager Jim Greene, Jr.,City  Clerk Connie B. Snyder; and City Attorney J. Graham Corriher.  ABSENT: Mayor Karen K. Alexander.  Salisbury City Council met in Council Chambers in City Hall located at 217 South Main Street. The meeting was called to order by Mayor Pro Tem Sheffield at 6:00 p.m. A moment of  silence was taken.  PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE  Mayor Pro Tem Sheffield led participants in the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States Mayor Pro Tem Sheffield noted during the Busker's Bash the street lights in the pocket park on Lee Street went out making the area dark. She stated Transportation Manager Zack Lemmon came out at 11:30 p.m. and fixed the lights to ensure citizen safety. She thanked Mr.  flag.  Lemmon for all he does for the City. ADOPTION TOFTHE AGENDA  Thereupon, Councilmember Post made al motion to adopt the Agenda as presented. Mayor Pro Tem Sheffield, and Councilmembers McLaughlin, Post and Smith voted AYE. (4-0)  Salisbury City Council  October 17, ,2023  Page 1    PROCLAMATIONS  Mayor Pro Tem toj proclaim the following observance:  MAKE. A DIFFERENCE DAY  October 28, 2023  CONSENT. AGENDA (a) Minutes October 3, 2023.  Approve Minutes ofthe special meeting of October 3, 2023 and the regular meeting of  (b) Parking. - Crown Point Drive  Adopt an Ordinance amending Section 13-338 (parking prohibited at all time) to add the restriction to the south side of Crown Point Drive beginning at the intersection with Carolina ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 13, ARTICLE: X, OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF (The above Ordinance isi recorded in full in Ordinance Book No. 31 at Page No. 322, andi is known  Boulevard and ending at the dead-end. SALISBURY, RELATINGTO PARKING.  as Ordinance 2023-70.)  (c) Agreements -1 North Carolina Department ofTransportation  Authorize the City Engineer to accept agreements with North Carolina Department of Transportation concerning maintenance of signs (Schedule A), markings and markers (Schedule B), traffic signals (Schedule C), and the computerized traffic signal system (Schedule D).  (d) Right-Of-Way Encroachment  Approve ai right-of-way encroachment for the installation ofa approximately 956 linear feet of directional bore duct by Conterra ini the 3400 block of South Main Street per Section 11-24(27) of the City Code and subject to an approved encroachment by the North Carolina Department of  Transportation.  (e) Contract Extension - MTO, Inc.  Approve a two-year contract extension with MTO, Inc. in the amount of $158,276.92 for one year with aj price adjustment allowed in year two for facility cleaning services. Funds for the  contracted service are included in the FY2023-2024 adopted budget.  Salisbury City Council  October 17,2023  Page 2    (f) Approval - Purchase Order 240488  Authorize the City Manager to approve. Purchase Order 240488 in the amount of$169,000 fort the purchase ofused' TL3 Petersen) Lightning Loader and adopt al budget Ordinance amendment to the FY2023-2024 budget in the amount ofs $169,000 to appropriate insurance claim proceeds. ORDINANCE AMENDING THE BUDGET ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF SALISBURY, (The above Ordinance is recorded in full in Ordinance Book No. 31 at Page No. 3336, and is  NORTH CAROLINA TO. APPROPRIATE INSURANCE PROCEEDS.  known as Ordinance 2023-80.)  Thereupon, Councilmember Post made a motion to adopt the Consent Agenda as presented. Mayor Pro Tem Sheffield, and Councilmembers McLaughlin, Post and Smith voted  AYE. (4-0)  PUBLICCOMMENT  Mayor Pro Tem Sheffield opened the floor to receive public comments.  Mr. Robin Albright, Pastor Southside Baptist Church, thanked Council for approving the parking restriction on the south side ofCrown Point Drive. He pointed out if cars are parked on both sides of the street it makes it difficult for larger vehicles such as delivery, fire, and garbage  trucks to maneuver the narrow street.  Ms. Emily Perry read a letter she sent to City Manager Jim Greene thanking staff for its work on the Dixonville Cemetery. She pointed out retired and former staff members remained  focused and engaged with the Dixonville Cemetery task force.  Mr. Gemale Black referenced an article in the Salisbury Post that stated the City removed benches on East Fisher and South Lee Streets due to alleged unsheltered persons using thel benches for rest and shelter. He stated the removal ofbenches and installation of a camera in the area is not a solution that reflects the City's values, and he added the community must work together to  find compassionate solutions. comment session.  There being no one else to address Council, Mayor Pro Tem Sheffield closed the public City Manager Jim Greene explained Public Works staff reviews infrastructure throughout the City, and the benches near thel Plaza were: removed fori routine maintenance. He indicated there was concern from local residents and businesses regarding unsheltered persons in the area. He added the community must come together to evaluate the situation and look fora al holistic solution. He pointed out the Police Department's camera is moved to various locations throughout the City  and will be moved to a different location this week.  Salisbury City Council  October 17,2023  Page 3    INCENTIVE GRANT REQUEST- CROWE HOLDINGS  Economic Development Council (EDC) Vice President Scott Shelton addressed Council regarding an incentive grant for Project Crowe equal to 90% of the taxes paid on the estimated $11.92 million investment to an existing facility. He stated the company behind Project Crowe is internationally known and is looking for a distribution center in the Southeastern United States. He commented the 700,000 square foot building under construction on Peeler Road is being  considered for the project.  Mr. Shelton noted if the Salisbury location is chosen the company would create 80 jobs over the next three years. He referenced the $73 million investment by Crowe Holdings, and he pointed out Project Crowe would invest approximately $29 million in up-fits and $12 million in newe equipment. Headded the company plans to begin operations ati its chosen location int the third  quarter of 2024.  Mr. Shelton asked Council to considerat! three-year incentive grant fort thej personal property investment equal to 90% oft the new taxes paid. He explained the smaller grant payment would lead to an increasei ini netrevenue to the City ofapproximately5787870 over 10years. He reviewed  the grant term comparison for a 10-year period:  Proposed Investment $11.92 million $11.92 million  Grant 80% 90%  Total $263,163 $184,376  Total Net $225,128 $303,915  Grant Terms 5years 3years  Percentage Grant Value Revenue to City  Mr. Shelton pointed out Rowan County Commissioners approved ai five-year tax incentive grant on the real and personal property for Project Crowe and the EDC has requested assistance  from the Department of Commerce to find grants for the project.  Councilmember McLaughlin asked if the jobs will be created at the beginning or near the end of the incentive grant period. Mr. Shelton stated the 80 jobs will have an average salary of $53,000, which is above the County average. He estimated 43 jobs would be created in the first year, 13jobs the following year, and 24j jobs will be created during the third year. Councilmember Smith asked ift the work force is anticipated to come from the area. Mr. Shelton agreed.  Mayor Pro Tem Sheffield convened a public hearing, after due notice, regarding the Ms. Dee Dee Wright requested clarification regarding the 10-year $11.29 million investment generating $304,000 additional taxi revenue over 10 years and Project Crowe receiving  proposed incentive grant request.  $184,376 over a three-year period.  Ms. Dottie Hoy reviewed the history of Crowe Holdings, and she stated it is important to  know who will benefits from tax incentives.  Salisbury City Council  October 17,2023  Page 4    There being no one else to address Council, Mayor Pro Tem Sheffield closed the public City Manager Jim Greene stated the City benefits from this project through property tax and jobs. He pointed out the incentives are pertormance based and requirements must be met. He stated the policy allows for a longer term, but a shorter term was agreed upon that is more  hearing.  beneficial for the City.  Mayor Pro Tem Sheffield referenced the grant terms, and she noted over 10 years the City will receive approximately $75,000 in additional tax revenue. Mr. Shelton explained the tenant will pay the taxes on the building and the equipment and similar terms seemed to be ai reasonable solution. Mr. Greene stated the additional tax revenue isi important, and he pointed out there will be an economic development impact including the creation of 80 jobs with salaries above the  County average.  Councilmember Post questioned the proposed totals. Mr. Shelton explained the total revenue over 10 years is $488,000, and hej pointed out equipment depreciation was considered. He noted the company will likely invest in additional equipment after year three that will create additional tax revenue. Councilmember McLaughlin stated the jobs will create above-average salaries that can be spent in the City. Councilmember Smith indicated there is an increasing amount ofunaffordability in the region and there is an opportunity to bring 80 jobs toi the Cityt that pay above the median income. He thanked Mr. Shelton and the EDC for all they do for the City. Mr. Greene stated the City is in competition for this tenant and it is important to create a Thereupon, Councilmember Post made a motion to award an incentive grant to Crowe Holdings equal to 90% of taxes paid on the estimated $11.92 million taxable investment to an existing facility. The total estimated value of the grant is $184,376 to be paid in annual installments for a period not to exceed three years. Mayor Pro Tem Sheffield, and  competitive package.  Councilmembers McLaughlin, Post and Smith voted AYE. (4-0) ALLEYCLOSING- NORTIJACKSONSTRLET  Transportation Director Wendy Brindle stated at a previous meeting Council adopted a Resolution of Intent to close an alley off the 800 block ofNorth Jackson Street. She reviewed a map of the area, and she pointed out the alley and its location to North Jackson Street, West  Henderson Street, and Lake Drive.  Ms. Brindle explained by State Statute once the alley is closed it will be divided equally between adjoining property owners and if a property owner has interest in the whole alley, they would negotiate with the neighbors to receive it. She stated the City follows North Carolina General Statute 160A-299 for all right-of-way closings which state closing the alley must not be contrary to the public interest, and no one should be deprived of reasonable means ofi ingress and  egress to their property. Salisbury City Council  October 17,2023  Page 5    Ms. Brindle noted to close the alley Council must hold a publichearing, adopt al Resolution accepting the right-of-way and then adopt the Order to close the right-of-way. Councilmember Post asked ifthe closed alley will be reflected on thet tax maps. Ms. Brindle agreed, and she stated the petitioner has interest in owning the alley which would be acivil matter between the property  owners.  Mayor Pro Tem Sheffield convened a public hearing, after due notice, regarding the Ms. Queena Tabora stated she is the petitioner to close the alley. She stated when she purchased her home it was assumed the alley was their driveway and she later found out a process was needed to close the alley. She stated North Jackson Street is narrow and there is limited room for parking. She added the alley closing would provide her family a safe place toj park their cars. There being no one else to address Council, Mayor Pro Tem Sheffield closed the public Thereupon, Councilmember McLaughlin made a motion to adopt a Resolution pertaining to the proposed closing of an alley located off of the 800 block of North Jackson Street. Mayor Pro Tem Sheffield and Councilmembers McLaughlin, Post and Smith voted. AYE. (4-0) RESOLUTION PERTAINING TO THE PROPOSED CLOSING OF AN ALLEY LOCATED (The above Resolution is recorded ini full inl Resolution Book No. 17 at. Page No. 38, and is known  proposed alley closing.  hearing.  OFF OF THE 800 BLOCK OF NORTHJACKSON STREET.  as. Resolution 2023-30.)  Thereupon, Councilmember. McLaughlin made ai motioni to adopt an Order closing an alley located off of the 800 block of North Jackson Street. The closing is not contrary to the public interest and no one will be deprived of reasonable means ofi ingress and egress to their property. Mayor Pro Tem Sheffield, and Councilmembers McLaughlin, Post and Smith voted AYE. (4-0) (The above Order is recorded in full at the Register of Deeds and maintained in the City Clerk's  Alley Closing File dated October 17,2023.)  LOCALI HISTORIC LANDMARK- WRIGHT-HOBSON HOUSE  Planner Emily Vanek asked Council to consider adopting an Ordinance designating the Wright-Hobson House located at 302 South Fulton Street as a Local Historic Landmark. Ms. Vanek noted thel home was built in 1912 ini neoclassical style and designed by architect Louis Asbury. She displayed photos oft the home and stated a Local Historic Landmark is defined asab building, structure, site, or object, which may or may not bel listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and is an outstanding example of a historic resource and is intended to be recognized for its architectural integrity. She commented in addition to documented special  Salisbury City Council  October 17, 2023  Page 6    significance, these properties maintain the highest degree ofintegrity and are further recognized  for their rarity among properties in the City.  Ms. Vanek explained for a property to be designated as a Local Historic Landmark the property must have special significance for its historical, prehistorical, architectural, or cultural importance. She noted the Wright-Hobson House embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction that represent the work ofai master, possesses high artistic values, or that represent a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction. She stated the proposed property must be found to have integrity in all seven aspeçts including, location, setting, design, material, workmanship, feeling, and association. Ms. Vanek stated staff finds the Wright-Hobson House retains special significance and staff also finds the application retains all seven aspects ofintegrity. She added the house is the only red brick neoclassical home in Salisbury and was designed by Louis Asbury who was a prolific architect in Charlotte and often considered North Carolina'si first professional architect. Ms. Vanek noted that the Landmark Proposed Designation report proposes the entire house exterior, accessory structure, and site be included in the designation. She stated no portions oft the interior are: included in the designation report. She explained since the property is within the West Square Local Historic District, the exterior ofall buildings and site features will be subject to the Certificate of Appropriateness process and the Local Historic Design Standards.  Ms. Vanek commented thel homeowner completed thej pre-application, which wasi reviewed by the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) ati its May 11, 2023 meeting, and the commission found the Local Historic Landmark pre-application for the Wright-Hobson House to qualify as a Local Historic Landmark. She added the report was submitted to the State Historic Preservation (SHPO) for its review and comment, and on July 27, 2023, SHPO's response was received and provided tot the applicant. She noted at its September 14, 2023 meeting the HPC found the Wright- Hobson House retains special significance for its architectural and cultural importance and it  satisfies all seven aspects ofintegrity.  Councimember Post asked how many neoclassical-style homes are in the City of Salisbury. Ms. Vanek stated there is one other neoclassical home on the corner of South Fulton  and Fisher Streets.  Mayor Pro Tem Sheffield convened a public hearing, after due notice, regarding the Ms. Karen Hobson asked Council to designate the Wright-Hobson House as a Local Historic Landmark. She displayed photos of the home and noted the homes special significance.  proposed local historic landmark designation ofthe Wright-Hobson Hose.  She also provided history on Architect Louis Asbury's notable work.  Ms. Karen Lilly-Bowyer spoke in favor of designating the Wright-Hobson House as a  Local Historic Landmark.  Salisbury City Council  October 17,2023  Page 7    There being no one else to address Council, Mayor Pro Tem Sheffield closed the public Thereupon, Councilmember Post made a motion to adopt an Ordinance designating the Wright-Hobson House located at 302 South Fulton Street in Salisbury, North Carolina as a Local Historic Landmark. Mayor Pro Tem Sheffield, and Councilmembers McLaughlin, Post and Smith ORDINANCE DESIGNATING THE WRIGHI-HOBSON HOUSE", LOCATED AT 302 SOUTHFULTON STREET INSALISBURY,NORTHCAROLINA, ASA A LOCAL HISTORIC (The above Ordinance is recorded in full in Ordinance Book No. 31 at Page No. 323-325, and is  hearing.  voted AYE. (4-0)  LANDMARK.  known as Ordinance 2023-71.) HOUSING STRATEGY SURVEY  Planning and Neighborhoods Director Hannah Jacobson provided an update to Council regarding a community survey that will contribute to developing the 10-Year Housing Strategy. Ms. Jacobson noted in. January Council prioritized creating a 10-year Housing Strategy for 2023 and Thomas P. Miller and Associates were selected to assist with the project. She stated staff has been meeting with consultants frequently, and consultants havel been working to: research data and  evaluate previous housing plans.  Ms. Jacobson explained next steps for the 10-Year Housing Strategy include launching a community-wide survey to understand more about citizens' experiences and opinions regarding housing. She noted postcards and flyers will be distributed around the community in English and Spanish with instructions on accessing the survey. She added the survey is primarily online, but paper copies will be available at various locations across the City and upon request. She stated the housing survey can be accessed through the QR code on1 the flyer, and citizens can also access the survey on the City Website. She added paper copies can be requested by calling 704-638-5230. Ms. Jacobson noted citizens could spread the word by sharing posts on social media accounts inviting colleagues, friends, and acquaintances to take the survey. She stated citizens can also share the survey with neighborhood groups, places ofworship, professional associations, civic  groups, and school groups.  BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS  Parks and Recreation Advisory Board  Upon a motion by Councilmember McLaughlin. Mayor Pro Tem Sheffield, and Councilmembers McLaughlin, Post, and Smith voting AYE, the following appointment was made  to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board:  Salisbury City Council  October 17,2023  Page 8    Mr. Dana Grubb Rowan Tourism Board  Term Expires 3/31/2025  Upon a motion by Mayor Pro Tem Sheffield. Mayor Pro Tem Sheffield, and Councilmembers McLaughlin, Post, and Smith voting AYE, the following appointments were  made to the Rowan Tourism Board: Ms. Krista Sullivan Ms. April Saylor  Term Expires 3/31/2025 Term Expires 3/31/2025  CITY MANAGER'S COMMENTS (a) Livingstone College Homecoming Events  City Manager Jim Greene pointed out thel Livingstone College homecoming game will take place Saturday with other planned events including a concert after the game. He indicated the Police and Fire Departments are working closely with Livingstone College regarding the events,  and he thanked both departments for all they do to. keep citizens safe.  Police ChiefPatrick Smith thanked Livingstone College Police ChiefDr. Reginald Roberts for his assistance regarding the upcoming events. He noted Fire Captain Adrian Gantt and Police Sargent Adam Bouk have worked closely with Dr. Roberts regarding setting up mutual aid agreements with outside sources and with an operational plan for citizen's safety. He added the City will also partner with mutual aid from other agencies due to the anticipated 8,000 to 10,000 participants. He added there will be an increase ofj police officers along with assistance: from other  agencies to patrol neighborhoods and handle any issues that may arise.  (b) City Council Special Meeting  City Manager Jim Greene asked Council to consider a Special Meeting on October 25, 2023 regarding state funding for the purchase of a new apparatus for the Fire Department. He indicated there: may be ap price increase on] November1,2023. He stated staffwill continue tol have conversations regarding state funding. He added the proposed meeting could begin at 4:00 p.m. due to other meetings that evening. He noted the meeting should be short and will only include  one item.  COUNCILCOMMENIS  Councimember McLaughlin thanked Planning and Neighborhoods Director Hannah Jacobson for her work on thel housing survey. He noted the surveys willl help to determine housing  needs, and he asked for everyone to get involved in the process.  Salisbury City Council  October 17,2023  Pages 9    Councilmember Post referenced the events taking place in Israel and Gaza, and he shared he has relatives that live there. Hei noted the conflict is not oft the people, it is with the leaders and isa a sad situation. He added hel hopes all will pray. especially for the innocent victims.  Councilmember Smith pointed out violence has come. from overseas to the United States and synagogues across the Country are being threatened. He indicated the community needs tol be  attentive sO violence does not spread into our community.  MAYOR PROTEM'S COMMENTS  Mayor Pro Tem Sheffield noted early voting will begin October 19, 2023 and will end November 4, 2023. She stated citizens should reach out to the Boards of Elections with any  questions they may have.  MAYOR'S AMNOUNCEMENTSAND: COMMENTS  (a) 13thAnnual BlockWork  Mayor Pro Tem Sheffield announced the 13th annual BlockWork neighborhood improvement project will take place Saturday, October 28th in the 200 and 300 blocks of Lloyd Street in the West End neighborhood. The Community Appearance Commission and Housing Advocacy Commission: are seekingvolunteers tol help with exteriorhome repairs. T-shirts, gloves, meals and drinks will be provided. Sign up to volunteer by visiting  walalpnsvBisisus by Friday, October 20th.  (b) Salisbury Sculpture Show  Mayor Pro Tem Sheffield announced the Salisbury Sculpture Show, hosted by the Public Art Commission is returning fori its 16th year. Artists are encouraged to submit their best outdoor sculptures tol bei int the show. Neighborhoods can apply tol host a sculpture by completing an online application at wwsalislurmegevAerhbamocscpture The deadline for both artists and neighborhoods is December 22, 2023. For more information or to apply visit  www.salisburynegovv/Seulptureshow, (c) City Council Meeting  Mayor Pro Tem Sheffield announced the next regularly scheduled meeting ofCity Council will be held Wednesday, November 8, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. The meeting has been rescheduled to  accommodate the November 7 election.  Mayor Pro Tem Sheffield read a statement from Council regarding the events taking place  throughout the world.  Salisbury City Council  October 17,2023  Page 10    ADJOURNMENT  Motion to adjourn the meeting was made by Councilmember Smith. Mayor Pro Tem  Sheffield and Councilmembers McLaughlin, Post and Smith voted AYE. (4-0)  The meeting was adjourned at 7:31 p.m.  LLADb  Karen Alexander, Mayor  Couue bbrupls Connie B. Snyder, City Clerk  Salisbury City Council  October 17,2023  Page 11