ROCKINCHAM EEESNESCSCNEXOSSMATNES A CITY LOOKING FORWARD  CITY COUNCIL AGENDA April 14, 2015 7:30 p.m.  1. Opening of meeting by Mayor Steve Morris.  2. 3.  Invocation by Reverend Ronnie McLean, Pastor of Freedom Baptist Church.  Amendments and Changes to Agenda.  4. Consent Agenda:  A. Disposition of Minutes of the March 10, 2015 Regular Meeting and  Closed Session.  B. Tax Collector's Report. (See Pages 4-8)  Informational Items: 1.) Monthly Collection Report  2.) Uncollected Taxes as of March 31, 2015. 1.) Refunds per County Assessor's Office. 2.) Discovery bills added to Tax Scroll. 3.) Releases per County Assessor's Office.  Action Items:  5.  Business by Planning Board. A. Set Public Hearing. (none) B. Hold Public Hearing.  1.) UDO Text Amendment: Hold public hearing for an amendment to the City's Unified Development Ordinance to delete Article 12: Telecommunication Regulations in its entirety and replace with a revised Article 12: relecommunication Regulations. (See Pages 9-11 & Article 12: Telecommunication Regulations included separately.)  C.  Minutes from Various Boards (included separately)  514 Rockingham Road, Rockingham, NC 28379 Phone -1- 75 9088 - Fax 910.9976617-wwmseroctingham.con    City Council Agenda April 14, 2015 Page 2  6. Business by Visitors. 7. Business by City Clerk. 8. Business by City Manager. 9. Business by City Attorney. 11. Business by Mayor.  10. Items of discussion by City Council Members.  A. Issue Proclamation designating May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness B. Issue Proclamation recognizing May 3-9, 2015 as "Municipal Clerk's  Month". (See Page 12) Week". (See Page 13)  12. Adjournment.  -2-    Rockingham, NC  City Council Agenda  SUPPORT DOCUMENTS  -3-    B    8    s 2 4  f  a 8 8 8  -4-    UNCOLLECTED TAXES  YEAR 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004  AMOUNT 126,077.00 33,211.10 24,726.85 20,676.66 15,548.97 11,971.89 9,729.55 5,943.82 4,529.45 3,999.38 3,063.87  March 2015  126,077.00 133,401.54 259,478.54  Total Current Year Total Past Years Total All Years  -5-    o 0 8 888 B5995555  0  -  8 o  2  6-    - e a  0 3  3 2  0  - N 8     - -  o    Staff Report to Planning and Zoning Board  Agenda Item: IV.A March 3, 2015 Issue:  UDO Text Amendment: Consideration of an amendment to the City's Unified Development Ordinance to delete Article 12: Telecommunication Regulations in its entirety and replace with a revised Article 12:  Telecommunication Regulations.  Background:  The City's current telecommunication regulations set forth in Article 12 of the UDO were originally adopted in January of 2003. These regulations have not been amended since the original adoption. Changes in state and federal laws in combination with new technology have necessitated a City staff contracted with Cityscape Consultants, Inc. to provide assistance with revising and updating the regulations, Cityscape specializes in providing technical assistance to local governments on all eecommunaton-reated issues. They are not associated or affiliated with any wireless providers or private tower owners. The proposed regulations are based on a model ordinance modified to meet Rockingham's specific needs and preferences. Cityscape has drafted similar ordinances for other cities  comprehensive revision of the City's wireless telecommunication regulations.  and counties in North Carolina. Staff Comments:  1. A copy of the proposed regulations are included in the agenda packet for the Board's review. Identifying and discussing every minor change or adjustment will be nearly impossible; therefore, City staff will focus on identifying notable and significant changes. Although the proposed regulations are a complete and total rewrite, the net effect is not a major departure from the current regulations. The primary intent of the re-write is to bring the current regulations into compliance 2. In terms of permitting, the proposed regulations establish four permit levels to address the various types of regulated facilities. Levels I and II permits include those type facilities approved administratively. Levels III and IV permits include those type facilities approved by the Board of Adjustment. A notable change is that collocations of wireless facilities on existing towers/structures will be approved administratively under the proposed regulations. This change is made to comply with state and federal laws. (Sections 12.15 and 12.16 define the four permit levels.) 3. The order of preferred siting for telecommunication facilities in the proposed regulations will remain essentially the same as the current regulations. The proposed regulations continue to encourage collocations on existing towers and structures as the highest preferred siting option; and the construction of new non-concealed towers as the lowest preferred siting option. Only after an applicant adequately demonstrates no collocation options are available, can new tower construction be considered. (Sections 12.17, 12.18, and 12.19 set forth the preferred siting alternatives and 4. Anotable change is that the proposed regulations distinguish between concealed and non-concealed towers; and allow concealed towers as a conditional use in all zones. The current regulations do not distinguish between concealed and non-concealed towers. Examples of concealed towers are church steeples, windmills, bell towers, clock towers, light standards, flagpoles and/or trees. City staff is  with changes in federal and state laws; and address new technology.  associated requirements.)    recommending this change as part of the proposed regulations because these type structures containing a concealed personal wireless service facility (PWSF) may be appropriate in any zoning district depending upon the specific location and the specific design/appearance. The Board of Adjustment would make the final determination as to the suitability of a specific location and the design/appearance oft the concealment during the conditional use permitting process. 5. Another notable change is that non-concealed towers will be allowed in the R-20 zone (as a conditional use). The current regulations allow new towers as a conditional use in the I-1, I-2, and B-3 zones. The proposed regulations will allow non-concealed towers as a conditional use in thel I-1, I-2, B-3, and R-20 zones. City staff is recommending this change because there are a number of large undeveloped tracts zoned R-20 in the ETJ where a non-concealed tower could potentially be located with minimal impact on the surrounding community. (Section 12.20 sets forth which type 6. The proposed regulations address amateur radio towers, which are not addressed in the current regulations. Under the proposed regulations, amateur radio towers are permitted in all zoning districts; limited to 70 feet in height; must be setback from all property lines a distance at least equal to the height of the tower; and approved administratively. (Section 12.21 sets forth the 7. The proposed regulations address and allow for "mitigation", which is not addressed in the current regulations. Essentially, "mitigation" allows for the replacement of an existing PWSF tower as a permitted use provided such mitigation does at least one of the following: reduces the number of PWSF support structures or towers; or replaces a non-concealed tower with a PWSF concealed tower (or reduces the visual impact of a PWSF); or replaces an existing PWSF tower with a new PWSF tower to improve network functionality. (Section 12.26 sets forth the requirements for 'mitigation".) 8. The proposed regulations establish requirements for distributed antenna systems (DAS), which are not addressed in the current regulations. DAS is relatively new technology. (Section 12.27 sets 9. The maximum allowable tower height also increases in the proposed regulations. The maximum allowable height for a concealed PWSF tower is 1501 feet. The maximum allowable height for a non- concealed PWSF tower is 199 feet. The current regulations limit the maximum allowable tower height to 140 feet. In 2006, the current 140-foot maximum height limit proved too restrictive for the only tower constructed under the current regulations. The Board of Adjustment granted a variance to allow a maximum height of 180 feet sO the tower could provide adequate service and collocation opportunities. (Section 12.28 (B) sets forth tower height requirements.) 10. The proposed regulations address the use of "breakpoint" technology as it relates to tower design and setback requirements. Essentially, this technology insures that in the event of a structural failure of the monopole, the failure will occur at the breakpoint rather than at the base plate, anchor boits, or any other point on the monopole. The use of this technology allows for a reduction in tower setback requirements since the risk of a collapse onto adjacent property is significantly reduced. The current regulations do not address "breakpoint" technology. (Section 12.28 (C) sets 11. The requirement for all PWSF towers to be a "monopole" type construction is unchanged between the current and proposed regulations (as opposed to allowing lattice or guyed towers). 12. The proposed regulations include requirements for broadcast towers (radio and television towers), which are not addressed in the current regulations. In the proposed regulations, broadcast towers are allowed as a conditional use in the I-1,I-2, B-3, and R-20 zones - the same as PWSF towers.  facilities are allowed in each zoning district and the type of permit required.)  requirements for amateur radio towers.)  forth the requirements for DAS facilities.)  forth tower setbacks and the use of breakpoint technology.)  -10-    The maximum height for a broadcast tower will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis with consideration given to the determination of height contained in an applicant's FCC construction permit. The minimum setback is equal to the tower height. (Section 12.30 sets forth the 13. The proposed regulations continue to allow for the retention of expert assistance in reviewing and evaluating any type facility. However, one notably change is that there is no longer a requirement for an escrow account to be set up by the applicant to cover the cost of the expert assistance. The cost of expert assistance will now be funded by requiring a one-time application fee in an amount adequate to cover the cost. City staff has entered into a contract with Cityscape to provide this expert assistance on an as-needed basis for a fixed fee depending on the type of facility. 14. As a part of this amendment, the Planning and Inspections Department Fee Schedule will need to be amended to reflect application costs for "substantial" collocations and new towers ($6,500); and "non-substantial" collocations, modifications, and upgrades ($1,000). The term "substantial"  requirements for broadcast towers.)  collocation is defined in NCGS 160A-400.51.  Staff Recommendation: Article 12 as proposed.  City staff recommends the Board review and discuss the proposed regulations. If the Board is satisfied with the proposed revisions, then City staff recommends the Board recommend the City Council amend  Planning Board Recommendation: Council amend Article 12 of the UDO as proposed.  The Planning Board reviewed the request on March 3, 2015 and recommended unanimously that the City  -11-    ROCKINGHAM ERGMESTSEENIS A CITY LOOKING FORWARD PROCLAMATION  "Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month"  May, 2015  WHEREAS, motorcycle riding is a popular form of recreation and transportation in our WHEREAS, according to the figures issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles, North Carolina has more than 193,000 registered motorcycles and more than 400,000 licensed drivers who have either a motorcycle endorsement or a motorcycle learner's permit; and recognize the importance ofr motorcycle safety and sharing of the roadways; and  region and local community; and  WHEREAS, it is vital that all drivers are aware of motorcycles on our roadways and WHEREAS, May is traditionally the seasonal "kick-off" month for the return of recreational bikers to our highways which serves to remind all vehicle operators to be cautious  and to observe these riders; and equipment and obey all drivingr rules.  WHEREAS, we encourage motorcyclists to drive defensively, wear proper safety NOW, THEREFORE, 1, M. Steve Morris, Mayor of Rockingham, NC do hereby proclaim May 2015 as "MOTORCYCLE SAFETY AWARENESS MONTH" and urge all motor vehicle  operators to join in the effort tol keep our highways safe.  This the 14th day of April, 2015  Signed:  M. Steven Morris Mayor  Attest:  Gwendolyn F. Swinney, CMC, City Clerk  12-  514 Rockingham Road, Rockingham, NC 28379 Phon  5 9088 Fax (910) 997 6617 www.goroctingham.com    ROCKINGHAM  A CITY LOOKING FORWARD  PROCLAMATION Municipal Clerks Week May 3-9, 2015  WHEREAS, The Office of the Municipal Clerk, a time honored and vital part ofl local WHEREAS, The Office of the Municipal Clerk is the oldest among public servants; WHEREAS, The Office of the Municipal Clerk provides the professional link between the citizens, the local governing bodies and agencies of government at other WHEREAS, Municipal Clerks have pledged to be ever mindful of their neutrality and WHEREAS, The Municipal Clerk serves as the information center on functions of WHEREAS, Municipal Clerks continually strive to improve the administration of the affairs of the Office of the Municipal Clerk through participation in education programs. seminars, workshops and the annual meetings of their state, province, county and WHEREAS, it is most appropriate that we recognize the accomplishments of the NOW, THEREFORE, I,N M. Steven Morris, Mayor of Rockingham, NC, do recognize the week of May 3, through May 9, 2015, as Municipal Clerks Week, and further extend appreciation to our Municipal Clerks, Gwendolyn F. Swinney and Deputy City Clerk Sabrina Y. McDonald and to all Municipal Clerks for the vital services they perform and  government exists throughout the world; and  and  levels; and  impartiality rendering equal service to all; and local government and community; and  international professional organizations; and  Office of the Municipal Clerk,  their exemplary dedication to the communities they represent.  Dated this  day of  2015 Attest:  M. Steven Morris, Mayor  City Clerk  514 Rockingham Road, Rockingham, NC 28379 - Phor -13- 75 9088 Fax (910) 997 6617 W ww.goroctingham.con    DEPARTMENTAL ACTIVITY REPORTS  for  COUNCIL'S INFORMATION  -14-    ROCKINGHAM EEERUEIEKCAENEKEEKEIKEENS A CITY LOOKING FORWARD  To: From: Date: Subject:  Monty Crump, City Manager Dave Davis, Recreation Director  April 6, 2015 Activity Report  The following are activities involving our department this month.  Spring Soccer - Our sixth spring campaign came to a close the past Friday, and although March has proven in the past to be a challenging month, our new scheduling format proved to be very beneficial. We played the majority of our games during the week and utilized weekends for weather related cancellations. Youth Baseball/Softball - We've experienced another strong enrollment with over 600 players registered to participate in these two programs. Try-outs and practices will begin shortly after the spring vacation concludes.  Sr. Games - Our department will once again play host to several events involving Sr. Games of Richmond Co. Our department has been involved with these events  since their inception which spans almost 25 years.  Hinson Lake - This area has experienced a spike in activity over the past couple of weeks as weather conditions have improved and people start moving about. It appears that sometimes it may take a cold winter to fully appreciate what the  spring months have to offer.  514 Rockingham Road, Rockingham, NC 28379 Phon -15- 5 9088 Fax 910.9978617-w-mgorectinghm.com    FIRECHIEF HAROLDI ISLER ADMIN. ASST. KRISTYI PLAYER  ASST.CHIEF DAVIDMULLIS CAPTAIN VICMCCASKILL  ( 1 March-15  We are pleased to submit the monthly fire report on the activities undertaken by the Rockingham  Fire Department during the month of March 2015.  Total Alarms: Turn In Alarms: Wrecks: Smoke Scare: Power line down: 0 Illegal burn: Electrical:  55 5 30 1 2 2  In Town: Silent Alarms: Alarm Malf: Vehicle fire: : Haz Mat: (meth lab): Co detector: Assist EMS:  53 50 5 2 1 0 0  OutofTown: Structure: Good Intent: Trash: Gas Leak/Spil!: Assist Police: Mutual Aid:  2 2 4 2 3 1 0  Hours Spent on Calls: 22 hours 19 minutes Total Property Exposed to Fire: Total Property Damaged by Fire: Total Property Saved:  $41,755,000.00 $56,500.00 $41,698,500.00  During the month of March fullt time members of the fire department averaged 41 training hours per person; part-paid members averaged 12 hours per person for the month.  Public Life & Safety: Installed 4 car seats -Inspections: 70  Sparky visited' Wal Mart's garden center grand opening Station tour from the cub scouts with 25 kids and 4 adults Participated in helped with the Richmond County Special Olympics Bowling  Respectfuly Submitted, Haed Fire Chief Harold Isler  -16-  231 S. LAWRENCE ST. ROCKINvmAm. NC 28379 I 910-997-4002    ROCKINCGHAM A GITY LOOKINO FORWARD  Rockingham Police Department  W.D. Kelly, ChiefofPolice  To: Monty Crump From: W. D. Kelly Chief of Police Date: April 1, 2015 Ref: March Activity Report  On behalf of the Rockingham Police Department, I am pleased to submit this report for your consideration. The following activities have been undertaken by officers of the Rockingham Police Department.  Total Calls for the Month: Animal Control Calls: Alarm Calls Escorts: Unlock Vehicles: Charges Generating Arrest: Felonies: Misdemeanors: Drug Violations: Juvenile: Warrants Served: Citations:  1234 47 141 96 121  20 108 9 3 112 277  Accidents eported/investyatet: Property Damage only: Personal Injury: Officer Hours Spent in Court: Officer Training Hours Logged Items of Interest: complete by May.  65 07 46 669  We have started In Service Training early this year and expect all training to be  311 E.. Franklin Street, Rockingham, N.C. 28379Phon - 17- 5-2468. Fax (910) 895-0899 wngorochnglampl.om