AGENDA Sawmills Town Hall Tuesday, January 16, 2018 6:00 pm  Regular Meeting of the Sawmills Town Council  1, Call To Order 2. Invocation 3. Pledge of Allegiance 4. Adopt Agenda 5. Approve Meeting Minutes 6, Public Comment 7. Recognitions: A. Recycle Rewards 8. Discussion:  Mayor Johnnie Greene Mayor Johnnie Greene Mayor Johnnie Greene Mayor Johnnie Greene Mayor Johnnie Greene Mayor Johnnie Greene Western Piedmont Council of Governments - Anthony Starr Mayor Johnnie Greene Mayor Johnnie Greene Mayor Johnnie Greene Mayor Johnnie Greene Town Administrator Christopher Todd Mayor Johnnie Greene Mayor Johnnie Greene  A. December 19,2017 Regular Meeting Minutes  A. Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy Presentation  B. Sawmills Fire and] Rescue Water Bill . - Firearms Ordinance 9. Public Comment 10. Updates:  A. Code Enforcement Report B. Town Administrator Update B. Council Comment 11. Adjourn    Page 1 of7  TUESDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2017  TOWN OF SAWMILLS REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING  6:00 PM  COUNCIL PRESENT Mayor Joe Wesson Gerelene Blevins Keith Warren Jeff Wilson Reed Lingerfelt Joe Norman  STAFF PRESENT Christopher Todd Julie Good Terry Taylor  CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Joe Wesson called the meeting to order. INVOCATION: Pastor Rick Bowman gave the invocation.  PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Mayor Joe Wesson led the Pledge of Allegiance.  ADOPT AGENDA: Mayor Joe Wesson asked for a motion to adopt the December 19,2017 Reed Lingerfelt made a motion, and Gerelene Blevins seconded, to adopt the December 19,  agenda.  2017 agenda. All were in favor.  APPROVE NOVEMBER 21, 2017 REGULAR MEETING MINUTES: Mayor Joe Wesson asked for a motion to approve the November 21, 2017 regular meeting minutes. Joe Norman made a motion, and Keith Warren seconded, to approve the November 21, 2017  regular meeting minutes. All were in favor.  PUBLIC COMMENT: Mayor Joe Wesson asked if anyone had any questions or comments Dean Hall spoke about discharging firearms in the Sawmills Town limits. Mr. Hall stated that he has had to call the Caldwell County Sheriff's Department numerous times regarding his neighbor shooting a firearm, sometimes eight (8) to ten (10) hours a day and about 600 rounds at a time. On December 1, 2017, Mr. Hall stated that two (2) bullets struck his home with his wife and child inside. Mr. Hall would like for the Town to look over its current ChiefDavid Price with Sawmills Volunteer Fire and Rescue spoke about the fire department's November water bill. ChiefPrice stated that the fire department had a leaking toilet and would  at this time.  firearm policy.    December 19, 2017 Page 2of7  ask that the Council look over the current policy regarding leaks and see if the policy can be  changed to include leaky toilets, at least for nonprofit organizations.  RECOGNITIONS:  RECYCLE REWARDS WINNER: Mayor Joe Wesson announced Helen Benge, as the December Recycle Rewards winner. A credit oft thirty-two dollars ($32.00) will be added to  her sanitation bill.  No Council action was required.  HONORING OF OUT GOING COUNCIL MEMBERS: Mayor Elect Johnnie Greene presented Mayor Joe Wesson, Councilwoman Gerelene Blevins and Councilman Reed  Lingerfelt with a certificate for their service on Council.  No Council action was required.  OUTGOING COUNCIL COMMENTS:  Gerelene Blevins stated that she would miss sitting on the Town Council and she would miss the people, but she has a lot ofhealth problems and just couldn'tcontinue to sit on1 the Council. Gerelene Blevins also stated that she believes that the Town should treat everyone the same no matter the situation. Gerelene Blevins also stated that she hoped everyone had a Merry. Reed Lingerfelt wanted to thank all the people for the chance to serve the last two (2) years. Reed Lingerfelt wanted to tell the incoming Council members to thank ofall the people while making decision. Reed Lingerfelt also stated that he hoped everyone had a Merry Christmas Mayor Joe Wesson stated that it has been an honor and privilege to serve the Town and the citizens ofSawmills. MayorJ Joe Wesson wanted to congratulate Johnnie Greene, Clay Wilson and Rebecca Johnson again for the outcome of the election, and tell them the best advice he can give them is agree to disagree. Mayor Joe Wesson stated that he was first elected in 2002 and wanted to thank everyone for all the years that he has served. Mayor Joe Wesson also  Christmas and a Happy New Year.  and a Happy New Year.  wanted to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.  COUNCIL ADJOURN: Mayor Joe Wesson asked for a motion to adjourn.  Keith Warren made ai motion, and Joe Norman seconded, to adjourn the meeting. All were in  favor.  OATH OF OFFICE FOR NEW COUNCIL MEMBERS: Town Clerk Julie A. Good administered the Oath of Office to incoming Mayor, Johnnie Green and incoming Council  Members, Clay Wilson and Rebecca Johnson.    December 19, 2017 Page 3 of7  COUNCIL PRESENT Mayor. Johnnie Greene Clay Wilson Keith Warren Jeff Wilson Joe Norman Rebecca Johnson  STAFF PRESENT Christopher Todd Julie Good Terry Taylor  CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Johnnie Greene called the meeting to order.  ADOPT AGENDA: Mayor Johnnie Greene asked for a motion to adopt the December 19, Keith Warren made a motion, and Joe Norman seconded, to adopt the December 19, 2017  2017 Agenda.  agenda. All were in favor.  INVOCATION: JeffLambert Director of] Ministries gave the invocation.  PUBLIC COMMENT: Mayor Johnnie Greene asked if anyone had any questions or  comments at this time. No one wished to speak.  ORGANIZATIONAL MATTERS: follows (from left to right): Joe Norman Keith Warren Rebecca Johnson Town Attorney Mayor Town Administrator Jeff Wilson Clay Wilson Town Clerk  SEATING ARRANGEMENIS: Mayor Johnnie Greene asked Council to be seated as    December 19, 2017 Page 4 of7  ELECTION OF MAYOR PRO TEM: Mayor Johnnie Greene stated that as a result of the November 2017 election, Council would need to elect a new Mayor Pro Tem. Keith Warren made a motion, and Joe Norman seconded, to appoint Clay Wilson as Mayor  Pro Tem. All were in favor.  COUNCIL ETHICS AND CODE OF CONDUCT: Mayor Johnnie Greene stated that every Council member should have a copy ofthe Code of Ethics prepared by Town Attorney Mayor Johnnie Greene also stated that every Council member should also have the Standard ofConduct prepared by Town Attorney Terry Taylor. Mayor Johnnie Greene asked that each Council member read the form. Each Council member should be prepared to sign the  Terry Taylor and adopted by Town Council on August 17, ,2010.  Standard of Conduct form and return it to the Clerk.  No Council action was required.  STANDING COUNCIL COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS: Mayor Johnnie Greene  announced the attached new Standing Council Committees.  No Council action was required.  FINANCIAL:  ADOPT BUDGET WORKSHOP SCHEDULE: Mayor Johnnie Greene asked for a motion Joe Norman made a motion, and Keith Warren seconded, to adopt the proposed FY 2018-  toa adopt the proposed FY 2018-2019 budget workshop schedule. 2019 budget workshop schedule. All were in favor,  FY 2016-2017 AUDIT PRESENTATION: James Lowdermilk and Rick Hammer, with Lowdermilk, Church & Co., L.L.P., presented the Towns FY2 2016-2017 audit to Council. Mr. Lowdermilk and Mr. Hammer stated that the Town received an unqualified audit and commended staff and Council on their efforts to maintain a strong fund balance.  No Council action was required.  BANKING AND AP CHECK SIGNATURES: Mayor Johnnie Greene stated that due to recent changes on the Council, new signature cards will need to be on file at First Citizens Bank and CommunityOne Bank. The banks require a new signature card to be on file whenever there are changesi in the staffand/or Council. The Town requires two (2) signatures  for accounts payable checks and the safety deposit box.    December 19, 2017 Page 5of7  The following Council and staffhave authorization to sign on behalfo oft the Town with regards  to banking transactions:  Christopher Todd-Town Administrator Karen Clontz-Finance Officer Joe Norman-Councliman  Typically, the Mayor, one other Council member, Town Administrator and the Finance Officer are authorized to sign on behalfofthe Town with regards to the bank. Keith Warren made a motion, and Jeff Wilson seconded, to appoint Mayor Johnnie Greene and reappoint Councilman Joe Norman to the signature cards at First Citizens Bank and CommunityOne Bank authorizing Mayor Johnnie Greene and Councilman Joe Norman to sign on behalf ofthe Town with regards to banking transactions. All were in favor.  PUBLIC COMMENT: Mayor Johnnie Greene asked if anyone had any questions or  comments at this time. No one wished to speak.  UPDATES:  DECEMBER CODE ENFORCEMENT REPORT: Town Planner Leslie M. Meadows  stated that there are eight (8) code enforcement cases open:  Teresa Annas Compton is the owner of a dilapidated house located at 4476 Sawmills School Road. A final Notice of Violation packet, setting an official hearing date for Ms. Compton for December 19, 2017, was sent from Town Attorney Terry Taylor's office. According to Ms. Compton's cooperationintentions, the Town can move forward with contracting out abatement efforts (demo and rmoval), and require reimbursement in the form of a lien on the property. As of December 19, 2017, the Town held a hearing and is putting together findings ofi fact and sending a letter to Ms. WNC Properties, LLC owner of 4209 Creekview PI. Minimum housing complaint. Town Planner Leslie M. Meadows stated that she needs to verify complaint before arranging site visit with Caldwell County Building Inspector Mark Annas and current David Graham (Landlord) owner of 4176 US Highway 321A. Minimum housing complaint. Town Planner Leslie M. Meadows stated that she needs to verify complaint before arranging site visit with Caldwell County Building Inspector Mark Annas and  Compton to abate;  resident;  current resident;    December 19, 2017 Page 6of7  Carolyn Bray/Robyn Brittian, owner of 2570 Baker Cir. Abandoned mobile home. Town Planner Leslie M. Meadows stated that she has been unable to contact Ms. Brittan for an update, but financially, she has stated that she can not pay for removal, or any accrued fines. A final Notice of Violation packet form Town Attorney Terry Taylor to set a hearing date will be needed before the Town can contract out the abatement efforts (demo and removal), and require reimbursement in the form of a John "Jody" McRary and neighbors, Jody Drive. Outdoor storage/junk vehicles in ROW/freight container. Thisi is a: non-conforming use, Impressive Auto, encroaching on neighborhood and blocking street for Fire & Rescue/Trash Pick-up. Need to remove/replace: non-conforming storage container. Town Planner Leslie M. Meadows stated that Mr. McRary came before Council on November 21, 2017, requesting permission to retain the shipping container ifhe modified the structure to resemble: a traditional accessory storage structure (underpinning, siding, lean-to roof). Town Planner Leslie M. Meadows stated that she is currently researching possible code amendments to allow for such modifications. Town Planner Leslie M. Meadows also stated that other options are daily fines can be collected from the final deadline date ofNovember 9, 2017, or the Town can initiate its own abatement process to remove the container at the owner's expense, or in the form ofa lien on the property; Sasser Family, LLC, owner 2526 Meadows Park Lane. Minimum housing complaint. Town Planner Leslie M. Meadows stated that she needs to verify complaint before arranging site visit with Caldwell County Building Inspector Mark Annas and current Jose Montes, owner 4321 Cherokee Court. High grass/junk vehicles. Town Planner Leslie M. Meadows stated that the has been no change, took photographic documentation of tagged vehicles in cul-de-sac. Daily fines to begin from final deadline date ofNovember 9,2017, or Town can install driveway at owner's expense. "No Parking" signs can now be posted to initiate a possible response; Janice Griffin, Trustee ofI Iona Griffin, 2148 Oaktree Ln. Abandoned, partially burned apartment building. Town Planner Leslie M. Meadows stated that a second Notice of Violation packet requesting demolition/repair and for all the ground level windows to be boarded up immediately, has been sent vis Town Attorney Terry Taylor's office with a deadline of December 15,2017. Town Planner Leslie M. Meadows stated that she has gotten a response back from Janice Griffin and a contractor has been hired and removal and the rebuild is scheduled to begin after the first of the year.  lien on the property;  resident;  No Council action was required.  TOWAADINISTRATOR COMMENT: Town Administrator Christopher Todd asked if the Code Enforcement Committee was able to meet on December 28th, 2017 at 4:00 P.M. in Town Hall. All members agreed to meet and hold a meeting at the proposed date and time, COUNCIL COMMENT: Mayor Johnnie Greene asked if anyone on the Council had any  questions or comments at this time.    December 19, 2017 Page 7of7  Joel Norman thanked everyone for coming and he appreciated all the hard work ofthe outgoing Mayor and Council members and looks forward to working with the new Mayor and Council members. Joe Norman also stated that he was proud of the Town for the good management ofmonies fori the last few years. Joe Norman stated he hoped everyone enjoyed the upcoming Keith Warren wanted to thank everyone for coming out. Keith Warren stated that it had been an exciting two (2) years and he has loved it and he loves the Town. Keith Warren also stated he hoped everyone continues to come to all the meetings and he hopes everyone has a Merry Rebecca Johnson wanted to thank everyone for coming to the meeting and for all the support that she received during the election. Rebecca Johnson also stated she looked forward to working with everyone. Rebecca Johnson wanted to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a  holidays.  Christmas and a Happy New Year.  Happy New Year.  Jeff Wilson wished everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.  Clay Wilson wanted to thank everyone for coming and all the support he received during the election. Clay Wilson also wanted to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Mayor Johnnie Greene stated it was good to be here. Mayor Johnnie Greene stated he appreciated all the outgoing Council and it was good to see young people on the Council. Mayor Johnnie Greene stated that neither himself or Council know what's needed until it's said. Mayor Johnnie Greene wanted toi thank everyone for the support and he does realize that Council is not going to please everyone all of the time. Mayor Johnnie Greene stated that he is proud tol be a part of the Town of Sawmills Council. Mayor Johnnie Greene wanted to wish  Year.  everyone a. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.  COUNCIL ADJOURN: Mayor Johnnie Greene asked for a motion to adjourn. JeffWilson made a motion, and Keith Warren seconded, to adjourn the meeting. All were in  favor.  Johnnie Greene, Mayor  Julie A Good, Town Clerk    AGENDA ITEM 7A  MEMO DATE: SUBJECT:  January 16, 2018 Recognition: Recycle Rewards Program  Discussion:  The Town of Sawmills would like to congratulate Amanda Perry on winning the Recycle Rewards Program for the month ofJanuary. Mayor Johnnie Greene will present her with a Certificate of Appreciation. A thirty-two dollar ($32.00) credit will be added to the current  sanitation bill.  Recommendation: No Council action is required.    AGENDA ITEM 8A  MEMO DATE: SUBJECT:  January 16, 2018 Discussion Matters: Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy  Presentation  Discussion:  The Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) is an important tool used to encourage and equip the region's counties and communities with strategies to improve economic conditions and the quality oflife for residents. The WPCOG Executive Director, Anthony Starr,  will present the CEDS document and answer questions.  Recommendation: No Council action is required.    1/16/2018  Comprehensive  Economic Development  Strategy (CEDS) January 16th,2018 Sawmills Town Council  WPCEG  WESTERN PIEDMONT COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS COMPREHENSIVE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY  SEPTEMBER 2017  brbtmisi,  1    1/16/2018  CEDS Update  The' WPCOG serves as the region's U.S. Economic Development Administration's designated Economic As the EDD, we: are required to create and maintaina Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) withu updates every 5 years The CEDS provides aregional framework toi identify economicc opportunities, challenges and goals The current CEDS was approved in 2012 and an update must be completed in 2017  Development District (EDD)  WPCEG  CEDS Update  TheWPCOGis but one of the organizations that implement the CEDS and many local governments, agencies and the business sector contribute to our region'ssuccess The Policy Board appointed the 15-member CEDS Committee in November The Policy Board appointed a diverse, groupof people to CEDS Committee (geography,age, employmentbackground,rac,ethnicity,gender,  WPCEG  2    1/16/2018  CEDS Committee  75% of the committee was under age 50 50% of the committee was under age 40  53% female, 47%1 r male Alli four counties represented  WPCEG  CEDS Committee  Chair Tommy! Luckadoo, Vice President, Adams Commercial Real Estate Services, LLC Vice Chair Nancyl Taylor, Executivel Director," The Community Foundation of Burke County Christopher' Todd," Town of Sawmills, Administrator Crissy Thomas, Brancht Manager, Wells Fargo Elle Fulenwider Engstrom, Marketing Coordinator, Fulenwider Enterprises Garyl Herman, Alexander EDCSmallE Business Coordinator Jeremyl Ku, Senior Supply Chain Consultant, Transportation insight Lindsayl Keisler, President, Catawba County Chamber of Commerce Mallal Vue, District Manager, Goodwill Industries Rocky Brooks, Communityl Development, Caldwell-UNC Health Care Saral Black, Broker, RE/MAX Southern Lifestyles Stacee Rash," Taxl Manager, Martin Starnes andA Associates Trish. Johnson, Assistant Superintendent fort Human! Resources, Caldwell Countys Schools Zack! King, Communityh Health Analyst, Catawba County Publlc Heaith  Lisal Miller, Director ofGrant Development & Administration, Western Pledmont CommunityCollege  WPCEG  3    1/16/2018  CEDS Importance  Why is the CEDSimportant? We live in an era of economictransition Oure economy functions onar regional basis Most of the public and businesses aren't concerned with political boundaries Improvements benefit theentireregion Someimprovementsrentsrequirearegional. lapproach  WPCEG  CEDS Importance  Over 42% of our labor force works dailyina county different fromwhich they live  WATAUGA COUNTY  2014Hlékory MSA Jobfiows,  COUNTY  IREDELL COUNTY  COUNTY RUTHERFORD CLEVELAND COUNTY  COUNTY  MECRLENBURA COUNTY WPCEG  4    1/16/2018  CEDS: Public & Stakeholder Input  The Committee used extensive publicinput to shape the directionofthe CEDS  CEDS lay se: Numbers AHAASA 15 Committee Members 7. Committee Meetings 32 Survey Questions 1,000: Survéy Respondents  31 1-on-1 Stakeholder Interviews. 3 Group Stakeholder. Interviews 6 CEDS: Subject Categories 25 CEDS: Strategies  WPCEG  CEDS: Public & Stakeholder Input  CEDS Public Survéy Responses: (963 Responses),  What economic opportunities exist or are devéloping In your county?  719  503 475  WPCEG  5    1/16/2018  CEDS: Public & Stakeholder Input  Does your local government encourage small businesses to locate ands grow in your community?.  (971- Responses) 533 (55.190) Yes  271 (28.0%) IDon't Know  163 (6:996) No  WPGEG  CEDS: Regional Profile  The CEDS Committee began its work with understanding the region andi the economictrends Current projections show little populationgrowth However, projections assume currenttrends & don't  over the next 20 years adjust for positive change Westen Piinioge Region (MSA) Population Growiist  County Burke  Consus 2610 Estimate 205 bronth 3010.15 Groth 2025 2035 201535 Growth 20153 crewih Alexander #7,4198 37952 7943 30N 96745 BA189 1-237 33* Caldwel 83.029 82577 452 DSM 83A11 891665 3089  90.912 89,114 1.79a tawba 154,358 155,828 A70 20:0Cencus, USCEAUSS andrt ouceetMenagement  90.002 90,179 1.065 161,349 5,521  1.246 1K 3.5M  WPCEG  6    1/16/2018  CEDS: Regional Profile  Western Piedmont Region (MSA) Empioyment Seryices se 43% 48%  Manufacturing Distribution decreases 40,213jobs lost Increasesin service employment  2000 2015 34% 28% 14% 16% 5% 5% 1% 1%  Number of Employed Persons 2000 185,093 2015 144,880 Source:Labora and EconomicA Analysis DMislon, ofCommerce. NCDept.  Manufacturing Trade Administration  Construction e 3% 2%,  Other  WPCES  CEDS: Regional Profile  Western Pledmont Region (MSA) Labor Force and  Unemployment Number ofEmployed Persons (April 2010- -Apri! 2016)  ratehas dropped Modest job growth Reductionsin numberof people int the laborforce  Labor. Force 174,936 2010 sons 152,655 172.394 2011 153,041 171.768 2012 155,112 168,271 2013 156,095 166,840 2014 157,281 166,940 2015 157,991 168,117 2016 160,231 WPCEG  Lmbora andEconomic AnalysisD Dlvislon, NCDept, ofCommerce,  7    1/16/2018  CEDS: Regional Profile  13.7% 11.5%  Western Piedmont Region (MSA) Unemployment Rate Api2010-April2017  Unemployment ratehas dropped Modest job growth Reductionsin number of people ini the labor force  9.7% 8.5%  3.9% y,  0  Source: Labor andE Economic Analysis! Division, NCD Dept. of Commerce.  WPCEG  CEDS: Six Subject Areas  Economic Development  tuiomistat  Workforce infrastructure Housing Marketing Community Life  WPCEG  8    1/16/2018  CEDS: Economic Development  NCMSA Percentage Employment Change (2012-2016)  - Modest improvement Burlington over 4years Jobc creation & Goidsboro tax base growth are twoof the core purposes for action  Asheville Charioti-CononréGantne) Durham-Chapel HI Fayettevile Greensboro-High Point Greenville Hiaanylemoh-orgamton jacksonville New Bern Raleigh Rocky Mount Wiimington Winston-s Salem  10.1% 9.0%  3.3% 1.3% -3.0% 4.4% 3,9% 5.7% 2.9% 2.8% -1.1%  14.5%  15.2% 13.5%  6.2%  Source: Labor andEconomic Analysis Division, NCI Department afCommerce,  WPCEG  CEDS: Economic Development Modestimprovement over 4 Jobcreation & tax base growth are two of the core purposes for action . Job growthreduces our povertyrates  Western Pisdmont Ragion (MSA) Poyerty! Rates  2000-2015 AllAges 2010  9,8% 16.74 15.8% 13.3%6 25.5% 22.3% 11.415 9%  years  Under18 2010  Over6s  WPCEG  9    1/16/2018  CEDS: Economic Development  t  Construct additional "shell buildings" and "pad- ready sites'throughout the region Marketcondtionsrequre localgovernment action for  success  50-10000sattbuldines planning stage at all times  Strive for 1buildingready, lunderconstruction, 1in  WPCEG  CEDS: Economic Development  WPCEG  10    1/16/2018  CEDS: Economic Development  B Enhance capacity for project and grant development N Maximize building reuse and site development Promote & support the Manufacturing Solutions Center, Morganton Campus of NCSchool of Science and Math, Center for Engineering Technologies, and  opportunities  other critical assets  irtadmisétl Att  WPCEG  CEDS: Workforce Labor force has decreased like much oftheU.S. Good improvement for our region Real and perceived issuesremain  Western Number of Piedmont Employed Region Persons (MSA)L (April Labor 2010- Force April2016) and  tabor Force 174.935 2010 152,655 172:394 2011 153,041 171.768 2012 155,112 168.274 2013 166,840 2014 157,281 166,940 2015 157,991 168,117 2016 WPCES  Source: laborandB Econornic AnalyslsDivision." 160,231 NCDept.c ofCommerce.  11    1/16/2018  CEDS: Workforce  CEDS Public Survey. Responses How well does your community work, to maintaina a skilled. workforce?. (927 Responses) 401 (43.3%) 328(35.4%) Adequate  -Do you believe there are gapsi in educational resources? (966) Responses): 453 (46.9%) 190(19.7 79 Yes  Poor/Little  IDon't Know 323(33.4%) No  155467% Good  24(2.6%).. 19(2.0%) None Excellent  WPCEG  CEDS: Workforce Educational attainment levels still matter - Lots of unfilled jobs Stagnant wage rates  Western Piedmont Region (MSA) Median Earnings for Population Over: 251 by Educational Attainment Level  (2015)  $50,879 $41,853 Graduateor Professional Bacheior's Degree Degree  $27,988 Highs School $27,365 $22, 089 Graduate (Includes Some College Lesst than equivalency) or Associate's Degree HighSchool Graduate  Source: 2015A Americano Community Survey, USCensus Bureau.  WPCEG  12    1/16/2018  CEDS: Workforce  Align career pathways witheducation and training opportunities to meet industryneeds Ensure sharingofo omPthwsethysimadis impact on) job recruitment and retention in the region Maintaino consistent, coordinated, long-termmarketing ofworkforce activities across the region Update the Industry GrowthAnalysis and shape it asa tool for businessrecrutment efforts  WPCEG  CEDS: Infrastructure  Econ. Dev.is isgreatlyinfluenced by infrastructure C Good availability and condition of our infrastructure isacritical component to job & businessrecruitment  and retention AtrN  unyo  WPCEG  13    1/16/2018  CEDS: Infrastructure  Regional Projects Completed, Jobs & Investments (2016)  $10 Milion Grant Amount $74,4 Million Privaté Investment  30 Projects Completed: 296 Jobs Creatéd  Source: WPCOG: 2016/ Annual Report.  WPCEG  CEDS: Infrastructure  Encourage, plan, and constructtransit- Potential businesses now ask for this when evaluating: sites and communitiesfor location Develop and expand the bicycle and pedestriannelworkint the region Expand fixed route pubictransportationto the municipalities in allf four counties Many of ther national companies don'tthink aboutt the historical stigma ofp publictransportation  oriented development  WPCEG  14    1/16/2018  CEDS: Infrastructure  I Developtransportationprojectsthatrank well laxcbonpleptamionsime promote/maximize: economicd development Improvebroadband access to rural areas and Encourage. and assist local governmentsto developandmaintainaset management and capital improvement plans Exploreopportunities: for coordinationand comolditonolually9yatems  improvebroadband speed  WPCEG  CEDS: Housing  Ahealthyh housing market is necessaryto attract newresidents and businesses Important for retaining residents and  businesses Housing (2000-2015) Trends  2000  2010 103,966(63.996) 18,109(11.1%)  2015  Owner-Occupled Housing Unkts Vacant Housing Units  Renter- Housing Occupied Units 34,469/23.89) 40,538(24.9%6) 41617125,6  Source: American Communitys Survey! (ACS), US Census Bureau.  WPCEG  15    1/16/2018  CEDS: Housing 22,188 Total Vacant Housing Units (2015A ACS) ForRent Rented, Not Occupied ForSale Only Sold, Not Occupled- or Seasonal, Recreatic nal  Western! Piedmont Age of Housing Stock  (2015)ACS Bullt before 1980 49.4% Bullt betwéeni1 1980 & 1999" 35.5% Bult: 2000,or later 15,1% Vear Units. %ofu Units 2010-2015 2,391 1.496 2000- -2009 22,158 13.7% 1990-1999 31,553 19.4% 1980-1989 26,192 16,1%. 1970:1979 29,187- 18.0% 1960-1969 20,549 12.7% 1950-1959 13,515 8:3% 1940-1949 7,395 4.5% 1939.Earlier 9,345. 5,8%  3,327  403 4,858 10,980  WPGEG  CEDS: Housing  CEDS Public Survey Responses Howy well does your community support affordablel housing choices? (933 Responses) Adequate Lite/Poor 50.3% 28.94  Reduce the number of vacant and substandard homes throughout the Increase the amount of new-market rate housing e especiallywithin andnear Increaset the availability of affordable homes within the region  region  downtowns  None Exceilent 3.046 1.945 WPCES  16    1/16/2018  CEDS: Marketing  Ahealthy economy relies on the growthofworking  ages segments of the population Focusona appeal 25 to 34A Age -17w-fBuringion  NC MSA Group Percent Charlotte Population Durham Change (2000-2015) Goldsboro : 2.9% 22.5%  Ashevlle 11.3% 19.2% 8.5% -1.9Fayetevile -2.49 #Greensboro Greenville 11.3% Hickory Jacksonville NewE Bern 5,3% Ralelgh -12.1% RockyMount Wilmington -3.2% 48 Winston-5 Salem Source: NCC Office ofBudgeta andi Management.  to the 18-45 year old people  36. 21,8% 31.066  WPCEG  CEDS: Marketing Population projections extend CURRENT trends  Western Piedmont Region (MSA) Populacion  Projections (2015-2035)  Caldwell 2015:82,577 2025:83,411 2035: 83,666 2015-2035:1 1,089 2035:39.189 ESL. Growth:1.3% 2015-2035:1237  Alexander 2015:37,952 2025:38,745 Et.Grox.h:33%, Catawba 2015:155.828 2025:158.588 2035:161.349 2015-2035 5,521 EL.Growth:3.56 WPCEG  Burke 2015:89,114 2025:90,003 2035:90,179 2015-2035:1 ,065 Est,Growth:1 1.2%  17    1/16/2018  CEDS: 2 Marketing  Convene a regional marketing task force Develop a regional approach tor marketing natural resources CEDS Public Survey. Responses:  Identify and promote regional attractions, events and  Doesy your cauntys currently Doest have the aspeclficbrandey communitys youl uses livein for. 456147.544 330(34.395) 477149.79). 239124.986)  marketits, (961. Résponses, assets? IDontKnowr Yes  promotiono 959R Responses). ofthe area?. iBortKnow  243(25.39) WPCEG  175118.2%)  CEDS: Community Life  Agrowing, healthy economic should encompass opportunities for publicp participation in the  decision-making process  Maximizing those pathways for economic csuccess Downtownrevitalization is now as important than Accommodating our younger and senior residents is  for all members of our workforce  ever before al key element  WPCEG  18    1/16/2018  CEDS: Community Life  We are a more diverse region now than everinourhistory Western Piedmont. Region (MSA) Population  by Raçe/Ethnic Group, 2015  .   White, 316,863 87.4%  Afriçan-American 25,728 7:1%  Hispanic 25,393 7.0%  Asian 1:1,732 3,2%.  Source:: 2015 Census Population Estimates, USCensus Bureau,  WPCEG  CEDS: Community Life  - Without change, we are becoming an mucholder That impacts our economy & local govt.services Western Piedmont Region (MSA) Population by Age Group, 2000-2015  region  2000 2010 2015 2000-15 Census Census Estimate Change 65-74 Years 24,456 31,566 38,329 13,873 75-84 Vears 14,522 17,222 18,930 4,408 30.4% 2000-15 Change Yoars 85+ 4,688 6,101 6,782 2,094  56.7% Change 2000-15  44.7% Change 2000-15  Source: 2000 and: 2010 Census, USC Census Bureaus and NC Office ofState Planning.  WPCEG  19    1/16/2018  CEDS: Community Life  CEDS Public Survey Responses Are there opportunities for Howy well does your minorities and Jowv wealch Community invest in individuals to engagel In healthy, safe andy walkable. communlty planning? (920. Responses) 480152.2%) 260(28.396) 323(33.796) 364(38.0%) Littie/Poor Adequate Lictie  Dot ther municipalitlesi within, your county. promote the. restoration downtown areas? ofthelr 49715 Rasponses). 557(57.49) Ves  communities? (958R Responsèsk  256(26.4%) IDon'tKnow 158(16.3%)  Adequate  186(19.495) Good 48(5.096) 37(3.9%) Excellent' No:  77(8.4%)- 73(7.9%). 30(3.3%) Good None. Excellent  WPGEG  CEDS; Community Life  Cultivate the next enerationorcommunty leaders Diversityinthe decision-makingproces Think aboutsucesionplamine: for local govt. boards C Create robust downtowns throughout the region - Housing,streetscapes,sidewalks, business occupancy, etc.  20    1/16/2018  CEDS: Community Life  Promote regional healthy-lvingintatives Improverecreationopportunities Address opioid and illicitdrugepidemic  WPCEG  CEDS: Presentations  Presentations to local government boards, key partners, stakeholder groups,civicclubs: and the  public are underway WESTERN PIsOMONTO Couwen. ay GOVENMENTS COMPREHENSIVE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY SePTENBEP2017  WPCEG  21    1/16/2018  CEDS: Questions? Thank youfor your time! Questions?  WESTERN PIEDMONT COUNCIL oF GOVERNMENTS COMPREMENSIVE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY SEPTEMSER 2017  WPCEG  22    AGENDA ITEM 8B  MEMO DATE: SUBJECT:  January 16, 2018 Discussion Matters: Sawmills Fire Department  Water Bill  Discussion:  The Sawmills Fire Department has requested the Town Council to formally address their November 2017 water and sewer bill. During the month of October, the Sawmills Fire Department (SFD) building water meter recorded 59,000 gallons of water passed through the meter. The SFD typically uses between 3,000 and 5,000 gallons of water from this meter. Due to the abnormal use of water, staff flagged the meter to be re-read. The meter was checked and re-read by Public Works Director Ronnie Coffey on October 25th, 2017, at which point the meter was functioning properly. The meter did indicate active water use at the time of the re-read. Due to the nature of the active use, Director Coffey spoke with a fire fighter in the building. They were able identify a leaking commode in the building. The commode was repaired that day, and Director Coffey re-read the water meter for the third time, which showed the meter has  stopped turning since the commode was repaired.  The Sawmills Fire Department has requested a bill adjustment. Based off the staff's interpretation oft the town's Utility Billing Policy, commodes are ineligible for a water and sewer credit. The policy currently reads, "The Town will adjust water and sewer use on bills in case of hidden underground leaks in service lines located between the meter and the house and busted or leaking pipes inside the home." Town staffhave never offered a credit for a broken commode or The Town Council discussed this matter during the November 2017 Town Council meeting. At which time they chose to make no action and keep the current policy for billing.  faucet.  Recommendation:  Staff recommends Council discuss this matter and decide how they wish to proceed.    AGENDA ITEM 8C  MEMO DATE: SUBJECT:  January 16, 2018 Discussion Matters: Firearm Ordinance  Discussion:  The Sawmills Town Council was addressed by resident, Dean Hall, during the regularly scheduled December 2017 public comment time period. Mr. Hall was concerned about the use of firearms near his home, due to both safety issues and the noise created from the discharge of firearms. The Town of Sawmills does have an ordinance governing the discharge of firearms within municipal limits. The ordinance reads $ 130,04 - "No person, except an officer in the discharge of his or her duties, shall shoot any firearms within 400 feet ofar residential dwelling, During 2017 the Caldwell County Sheriff's Department responded to 33 discharge of firearm Currently the municipalities ofLenoir, Granites Falls, and Hudson have ordinances that do not allow the discharge of firearms within their municipal limits. The Town of Sawmills ordinance was put inj place in 1991 with the recognition of the rural character of the community. Staffrecommends: Council discuss this matter and decide how they wish to proceed.  except on his or her property in defense of life or property."  calls, and approximately 5 loud noise nuisance calls related to firearms.  Recommendation:    AGENDA ITEM 10A  MEMO DATE: SUBJECT:  January 16, 2018 Updates: Code Enforcement Monthly Report  Discussion:  The attached report shows the progress that Planner Leslie Meadows continues to make  throughout the town. Recommendation: No Council action required.