Salisbury, North Carolina April 15, 2025 REGULAR MEETING PRESENT: Mayor Tamara Sheffield, Presiding; Mayor Pro Tem Harry McLaughlin, Jr.; Council Members Carlton Jackson, Jr., Susan Kluttz and David Post; City Manager Jim Greene, Jr.; City Clerk Connie B. Snyder; and City Attorney J. Graham Corriher. ABSENT: None. Salisbury City Council met in Council Chambers in City Hall located at 217 South Main Street. The meeting was called to order by Mayor Sheffield at 6:00 p.m. A moment of silence was taken. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Mayor Sheffield led participants in the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States flag. ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA Thereupon, Councilmember Post made a motion to adopt the Agenda as presented. Mayor Sheffield, Mayor Pro Tem McLaughlin and Councilmembers Jackson, Kluttz and Post voted AYE. (5-0) RESOLUTION HONORING RETIRING TRANSPORATION DIRECTOR WENDY BRINDLE Mayor Sheffield read and presented a Resolution of Recognition to retiring Transportation Director Wendy Brindle after nearly 29 years of service to the City. Ms. Brindle thanked Council for the recognition, and she stated she has enjoyed working with citizens, staff and Council. Council congratulated Ms. Brindle on her retirement and thanked her for her leadership and dedication to the City. Salisbury City Council April 15 2025 Page 1 City Manager Jim Green thanked Ms. Brindle for service to the community, her leadership and her work to prepare the City for future growth. Thereupon, Councilmember Kluttz made a motion to adopt a Resolution of Recognition honoring retiring Transportation Director Wendy Brindle. Mayor Sheffield, Mayor Pro Tem McLaughlin and Councilmembers Jackson, Kluttz and Post voted AYE. (5-0) RESOLUTION OF RECOGNITION HONORING RETIRING TRANSPORTATION DIRECTOR WENDY BRINDLE. (The above Resolution is recorded in full in Resolution Book No. 17 at Page No. 22, and is known as Resolution 2025-17.) PROCLAMATIONS Mayor to proclaim the following observances: LINEWORKER APPRECIATION DAY April 18, 2025 EARTH DAY April 22, 2025 ARBOR DAY April 25, 2025 NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER May 1, 2025 NATIONAL YOUTH VIOLENCE PREVENTION WEEK April 28- May 2, 2025 PROFESSIONAL MUNICIPAL CLERKS WEEK May 4-10, 2025 CONSENT AGENDA (a) Minutes Approve the Minutes of the regular meeting of April 1, 2025. (b) Contract - Miles McClellan Construction Authorize the City Manager to execute a contract with Miles McClellan Construction in the amount of $569,000 for general contracting services on the Hall Gym event space. This item is included in the FY2024-2025 budget. (c) Contract - Labella Associates and Charles R. Underwood, Inc. Authorize the City Manager to execute a contract with Labella Associates and Charles R. Underwood, Inc. in the amount of $385,000 for the Iown Creek Wastewater Treatment Train Pump Station Conversion project. Thisi item is included in the FY2024- 2025 budget. Salisbury City Council April 15 2025 Page 2 (d) Contract Change Order - Atlantic Coast Contractors. Inc. Authorize the City Manager to execute a change order to the contract with Atlantic Coast Contractors, Inc. in the amount of $350,000 for sanitary sewer rehabilitation services for Salisbury-Rowan Utilities. This item is included in the FY2024-2025 budget. (e) Purchase Order - Ford Hall Company, Inc. Authorize the City Manager to approve a sole source purchase order for Ford Hall Company, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $25,000 for an automated clarifier cleaning system. This item is included in the FY2024-2025 budget. (f) Purchase Order - Aqua-Aerobic Systems, Inc. Authorize the City Manager to approve a sole source purchase order for Aqua-Aerobic Systems, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $15,000 for an aerator. This item is included in the FY2024-2025 budget. (g) Forward 2040 Comprehensive Plan Ordinance Amendment Adopt an Ordinance amending Appendix F of the Forward 2040 Comprehensive Plan to include Rural Neighborhood (RN) in the Associated Zoning Districts table. ORDINANCE AMENDING APPENDIX F OF THE FORWARD 2040 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN OF THE CITY OF SALISBURY, NORTH CAROLINA. (The above Ordinance is recorded in full in Ordinance Book No. 33 at Page No. 123-124, and is known as Ordinance 2025-29) (h) Contract Extension Downtown Revitalization Grant Approve a one-year contract extension for a downtown revitalization grant for South Main Book Company owner Alissa Redmond to assist with building rehabilitation located at 110 South Main Street. Thereupon, Councilmember Jackson made a motion to adopt the Consent Agenda as presented. Mayor Sheffield, Mayor Pro Tem McLaughlin and Councilmembers Jackson, Kluttz and Post voted AYE. (5-0) PUBLIC COMMENT Mayor Sheffield opened the floor to receive public comment. Ms. Shamika Jones-Wilson addressed Council regarding a drainage issue at her home. She added the City is aware ofthe issue, but she has not been able to find resolution. Salisbury City Council April 15 2025 Page 3 Ms. Janet Pope addressed Council regarding traffic and flooding issues at Country Club Hills. She indicated developments in the area will be constructed on land that absorbs rainwater creating issues for the community. Ms. Caren Landis stated she uses an electric wheelchair to navigate the streets ofSalisbury. She pointed out Salsbury is a historic city and many of the restaurants are not accessible for those who use wheelchairs, canes, or walkers. She volunteered to provide input regarding wheelchair accessibility for the Streetscape Project. Ms. Dee Dee Wright expressed concern regarding the length of the April 1, 2025 meeting. Ms. Samantha Haspel, Vice-Chair ofl Downtown Salisbury, Inc., member ofthe Downtown Restaurant Bar and Guild and owner of the White Rabbit Cocktail Parlour asked Council to consider removing the exemptions from the Social District. She noted the changes would allow ABC permitted downtown businesses to compete with vendors who are coming to the City for one day events such as the Cheerwine Festival. Ms. Annie Boone-Carroll expressed concern regarding traffic near the parking lot on Grove Street across from the hospital. She referenced the intersection of Main Street and Mooresville Road, and she pointed out it can be difficult to make a left turn from Mooresville Road onto Main Street. There being no one else to address Council, Mayor Sheffield closed the public comment session. Mayor Sheffield noted City Attorney Graham Corriher and Public Works staff are working with Ms. Jones-Wilson regarding her concerns. EMPLOYEE HEALTH CARE FUND UPDATE Finance Director Wade Furches, Human Resources Director Ruth Kennerly, and Mark III Consultant Mark Browder addressed Council regarding the Employee Healthcare Fund. Ms. Kennerly noted taking care of employees is a top-priority for Council. She stated the City has had a Wellness Center for over 16 years that includes a part-time nurse practitioner. She added employees can schedule an appointment with the nurse practitioner who can connect them to programs such as the Weight Management Program, waist incentives, the Diabetes Health Map Program and the Know Your Numbers Campaign which helps to reduce claims and premium costs. She noted the City has. a Health and Wellness Committee that works to educate employees and plans the annual Benefit Expo that helps employees prepare for open enrollment. She pointed out as of. January 2025, the firefighters' annual physical included cancer screening, and she noted the City received second place in the 2024 Healthiest Employer's Award. Salisbury City Council April 15 2025 Page 4 Ms. Kennerly stated the Wellness Program also focuses on mental health: Employee Assistance Program = McLaughlin Young Group offers employees 12 free mental health sessions per incident Blue Cross Blue Shield offers resources for mental health on its website O FMRT provides psychological and medical support to public safety employees Provided mental health awareness sessions for employees and supervisors Mr. Browder noted Mark III has worked with the City for over nine years. He pointed out the City's medical plan is self-funded, which is efficient and cost-effective. He added Blue Cross Blue Sheild (BCBS) of North Carolina administers the plan and the City has stop loss insurance to assist with claims over $125,000. He noted the plan has built up reserves and is in an excellent position, but he cautioned the funds could be depleted quickly. He indicated prior to FY2024-2025 the City had not had a premium increase in seven years, and he added in the current fiscal year a 3% rate increase for employees was implemented. He explained Mark III recommends a funding increase annually, and he stated the plan is well managed and the City is in a good strategic position. Mr. Browder noted during the current year the plan incurred high claims, and he reviewed the high claim drivers: Condition Costs Cancer $1,506,754 Musculoskeletal $423,839 Digestive and Other Conditions $337,830 Cardiovascular $334,099 Diabetes $270,565 Specialty Pharmacy $224,804 Total $3,097,892 Mr. Browder noted in 2022 the City entered a national account negotiation strategy with BCBS that included administration, pharmacy, and stop loss contract terms. He added the City is a member of the Intergovernmental Healthcare Alliance (IHA) that incorporates policy provision at no additional cost to the participant. He explained IHA is the largest collaboration in North Carolina and in FY2024 the City received over $300,000 from the stop loss contract. Mr. Furches stated cash balances have declined in recent years and Fund Balance has decreased from 95.55% to 75.92% ofexpenses during the last four fiscal years: FY2022 FY2023 FY2024 FY2025 Cash Balances $5,450,233 $5,264,677 $5,154,014 $4,738,014 Fund Balance 5,079,659 $4,907,7432 $4,830,413 $4,414,413 % of Expenditures 95.55% 93.73% 90.86% 75.92% Salisbury City Council April 15 2025 Page 5 Mr. Furches reviewed expense projections, and he pointed out expenses have increased in the current fiscal year: Actual Actual Actual Projected Budget FY22 FY23 FY24 FY25 FY26 Medical Expenses $ 3,893,476 $3,658,584 $3,637,437 $4,054,068 $4,418,934 BCBS Admin Fees 1,224,808 1,344,020 1,408,431 1,473,438 1,550,000 Wellness Clinic 105,076 122,059 150,501 150,000 150,000 Benefits Consultant 25,500 25,500 25,500 25,500 25,500 HS. A Contributions 67.375 85,800 94,633 111.917 130,000 Total expenses $ 5.316.235 $5,235,963 $5.316.503 $5.814,922 $6.274,434 % Increase -1.51% 1.54% 9.37% 7.90% Mr. Furches stated Mark III recommends a 9% premium increase for FY2026 which would contribute $486,000 to the Health Insurance Fund. He stated staff recommends increasing the City's contribution to 10% and increasing the employee contribution to 5%, which would increase the funding to $483,638, which is slightly less than the 9% recommendation. He reviewed insurance premiums with the proposed 5% rate increases, and he asked Council to consider approving an increase in health and dental insurance premiums to 10% for the City and 5% for employees beginning July 1, 2025. He stated it is important for Council to determine the rate increase early SO materials can be printed for open enrollment. Councilmember Post asked if the proposed premium increases were presented to staff. City Manager Jim Greene noted sessions will take place on Thursday regarding the proposed increase to health insurance premiums. He added the goal is to have small rate increases to keep up with the rising cost of health care instead of a large rate increase all at once. Thereupon, Councilmember Kluttz made a motion to approve a 10% increase in the City's contribution to health and dental insurance premiums and a 5% increase in employees' contribution, effective July 1, 2025. Mayor Sheffield, Mayor Pro Tem McLaughlin and Councilmembers Jackson, Kluttz and Post voted AYE. (5-0) BUDGET PRESENTATION - SALISBURY ROWAN UTILITIES City Manager Jim Greene stated Salisbury-Rowan Utilities' (SRU) budget presentation will provide staff an opportunity to receive input from Council. SRU Director Jason Wilson introduced Raftelis President Peiffer Brandt, a longtime partner ofthe City and SRU who has helped with the rate model. Mr. Wilson noted the presentation aligns with the Strategic Plan key focus area ofSustainable Infrastructure. He stated SRU is a regional water utility that provides water and wastewater service that includes one water plant and two wastewater treatment facilities and has a current budget of$39 million. He added the average residential customer bill is $65.30. He noted SRU has a one-rate Salisbury City Council April 15 2025 Page 6 policy and over the last 15 years approximately $150 million has been invested in capital projects. He stated SRU serves approximately 53,000 customers across Rowan County. Mr. Wilson noted the new Raw Water Intake and Pump Station Project will relocate the pump station to increase the resilience of the facility. He pointed out Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funding for the project is in jeopardy, and he explained staff applied for a Building Resilient infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grant over five years ago and received notice of a 2021 grant award. He added staff will continue to work on the project and to identify potential funding opportunities. Mr. Wilson stated the Spencer Piping Improvements Project is one of the top recommendations of the Water Distribution Master Plan. He explained a 16-inch water line would flow into the Town of Spencer to increase water supply and pressure to the area. Mr. Wilson indicated critical valve repair/replacement is a recommendation of the Water System Master Plan. He noted there are approximately 8,000 valves throughout the system and the project is nearly 50% complete. He added the goal of the project is to identify valves that require maintenance, repair or replacement. Mr. Wilson noted the Town Creek Pump Station modifications will convert the existing effluent pump station to an influent and effluent pump station that will eliminate screw pumps. He added existing infrastructure will be used for the project. He reviewed the recommended Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) projects for FY2026, and he pointed out staffis proposing to allocate Fund Balance for some of the projects. Mr. Wilson referenced the SRU organizational chart, and he noted staff planned to request nine positions in the coming fiscal year. He explained four call center positions were frozen several years ago that are included in the budget. He stated the four positions will be reclassified and staff will request five additional positions for the coming year: a utility technician, engineering specialist, warehouse specialist, education and recruitment coordinator and a safety and training coordinator. Mr. Wilson referenced depreciation versus reinvestment, and he pointed out the capital assets condition ratio benchmark for the City is .62 and the current rate is 48. He indicated .50 or less signals the need to replace assets. He stated SRU's annual depreciation rate is approximately $6 million and to obtain .50 rating SRU will need to reinvest at least $11.5 million annually. He pointed out a $97 million one-year capital investment would increase the benchmark ratio to .62. He added the goal is to make slow, steady progress toward the benchmark. Mr. Wilson stated the CIP is a 10-year forecast that is updated annually and includes multi- year projects. He pointed out investment is capitalized when the project is completed. He indicated it has been a challenge in recent years to fully capitalize at current reinvestment levels, and he explained unencumbered budget funds transfer to SRU's Fund Balance. He pointed out SRU has a healthy Fund Balance, but capital projects from previous years need to be completed. He added staff is proposing to set up a Capital Project Fund to earmark budgeted funds for specific project types, fund capital projects over multiple years and to distribute planned CIP expenditures. Salisbury City Council April 15 2025 Page 7 Mr. Wilson reviewed the proposed fee schedule changes: Delete Schedule G = Analytical Testing Increase water and sewer line field inspection fees Increase fire flow test fee Clean up outdated and/or unused fees Water and sewer tap cost tables Mr. Brandt reviewed the challenges facing water and sewer utilities: Aging infrastructure High inflation (chemicals, power, personnel, etc.) Pending regulatory requirements Lead and Copper Rule PFAS Declining per capita consumption Recruiting and keeping talented employees Potential for new, high-use customers Mr. Brandt reviewed the five-year projection for rate increases, and he noted a 4% proposed rate increase for the coming fiscal year. He added capital improvement is needed currently and in the future. He reviewed debt service coverage and operating days with cash on hand, and hej pointed out keeping the debt service coverage at a healthy level makes it easier to borrow money. He suggested using some of the reserves to help fund capital projects. Mr. Brandt referenced the Consumer Price Index (CPI) from 2020 to 2025, and he noted the CPI for the south region has increased 27.1% since 2020 and SRU rates have increased 16.5%. He pointed out increases in the customer base has helped SRU absorb some ofthe rate increases. Mr. Greene noted staffi is recommending a 4% utility increase that would need to be shared with SRU's partnersi ifa approved. Mayor Sheffield agreed it is important to determine the proposed rate sO other municipalities have the information they need to complete their budgets. TRAFFIC CALMING POLICY Transportation Director Wendy Brindle and Traffic Engineer Victoria Trexler presented the updated Traffic Calming Policy. Ms. Brindle stated the Traffic Calming Policy aligns with the Strategic Plan key focus area of Healthy, Safe, and Engaged Neighborhoods. She reviewed the three forms of traffic calming: Passive ) Education and enforcement o Driver feedback signs/radar Horizontal o Deflections and street width reductions Salisbury City Council April 15 2025 Page 8 o Medians, chokers, bulb-outs, chicanes, traffic circles Vertical Physical change in the road surface Speed cushions, speed humps, raised rosswalkintersetions Ms. Brindle displayed examples oft traffic calming measures and noted vertical treatments have the greatest impact on emergency vehicles. Police Chief Patrick Smith and Fire Chief Bob Parnell agreed that vertical traffic calming treatments slow the response time for emergency vehicles. Ms. Trexler reviewed the draft policy and the feedback received. She noted the public comment period opened on February 19, 2025 and closed on March 5, 2025. She stated staff received 12 responses and the public expressed concerns regarding funding, the need for additional information, and petition requirements. Ms. Trexler noted funding resources in the updated policy include funding from the General Fund and a request for additional funds for data collection tools. She stated staff received concerns regarding which roadways would be eligible for traffic calming measures. She added the policy will include a map highlighting the roadways that qualify for traffic calming measures. She explained the updated policy still requires 75% of property owners to support the petition for a traffic calming device. Ms. Trexler presented an overview of the application process. She noted citizens can request an online form that staff will use to create a petition. She stated once the petition is generated, the petitioner must obtain signatures from 75% of the property owners. She added after collecting the required signatures, staff will receive the validated petition. She explained that staff will collect data to assess whether it supports the implementation of a traffic calming measure. She added if the data suggests that traffic calming is necessary, the street or roadway will be ranked, and staff will present the information to Council for its consideration. She reviewed the ranking system, and she discussed the timeline for implementation. Mayor Sheffield indicated the City needs a Traffic Calming policy, and she thanked the Transportation Department for its work on the policy. City Manager Jim Greene thanked staff and the community for its input. UPDATE = CAPITAL PROJECTS Transportation Director Wendy Brindle provided an update on various City projects. Ms. Brindle stated Fire Station 3 is expected to be completed in the summer of2025. She noted the Transportation Department is working to design the emergency signal to accommodate utility changes near the fire station. Ms. Brindle noted that the design for the Hall Gym Wrestling Room is complete, and a contract has been approved to proceed with the renovations. She added the renovations will include ai new HVAC system, a warming kitchen, breakout rooms, and windows. Salisbury City Council April 15 2025 Page 9 Ms. Brindle reviewed the restroom project at City Park and Kelsey Scott Park. She noted that a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) was issued for design, and the submissions are currently being reviewed by staff. She stated the estimated cost for the restrooms is $500,000. Ms. Brindle provided an update on the Veterans Memorial Archway, which is funded by the Salisbury Rotary Club. She noted the lighting has been installed and the bricks are expected to be delivered from late spring to early summer. Ms. Brindle stated that the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) approved the demolition of the Fisher Street Bridge on September 12, 2024. She noted demolition plans were submitted to Norfolk Southern Railroad and was approved on March 11, 2025. She indicated the next steps include submitting plans and fees to the North Carolina Railroad (RR) for its review and once the approvals are secured, the project will be advertised for bidding. Ms. Brindle provided an update on the City Hall windows, repointing, and cleaning project. She noted that the window project is finished, and the repointing project is 90% complete. She stated the building cleaning should take place in early summer. Ms. Brindle reviewed the fuel site design project. She noted the Public Works Department is coordinating with Blue 1 Energy Equipment for infrastructure design and layout. She stated the project is contracted with Alley, Willams, Carmen, and King for civil design permitting and approval, and she added permitting is set for September 2025. Ms. Brindle provided an update on microtransit. She noted the proposed FY2026 budget includes funding for fixed-rate and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Paratransit service but does not include funding for microtransit expenses. She explained microtransit funds will be included in the budget once a vendor is selected, and an implementation date is established. Mayor Pro Tem McLaughlin asked ifthe current administration has impacted grant funding for Microtransit. City Manager Jim Greene explained staff has not received any information indicating that the grant funding has been affected. He expressed concern regarding all grants but confirmed that grant funding for the project is still secure. Ms. Brindle reviewed improvements to sidewalks on Brenner Avenue and Old Concord Road. She noted that the design and right-of-way certification have been completed. She stated the railroad indemnification requirements are currently on hold and once the indemnification issues are resolved, staff will request authorization to begin construction. Ms. Brindle provided an update on the Grants Creek Greenway Project. She reported that Section A is complete, and staff is focusing on Sections B and C. She noted the goal is to begin construction on Section B in late winter 2025 or early spring 2026. She stated Section C of the project is waiting for North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) approval, and staff is optimistic for a late 2026 construction date. Mayor Sheffield asked why the design scope changed for Section C of the greenway. Ms. Brindle explained that the VA National Cemetery would not sell the City the property needed for the greenway, and there is a statute that prohibits recreational trails on cemetery grounds. Salisbury City Council April 15 2025 Page 10 Ms. Brindle reviewed the Catawba Preserve and noted that the Parks and Recreation Department received a $118,000 grant from the Carolina Thread Trail. She mentioned that Public Works completed grading and the Transportation Department is seeking funds to complete the project. Ms. Brindle explained the Brenner Avenue Safety Improvements Project aims to enhance safety on Brenner Avenue near Jake Alexander Boulevard. She noted staff expects to receive plans that are 75% complete soon and have. already started coordinating with Duke Energy regarding the easement requirements for utility relocations. She added staff anticipates construction costs will exceed the original budget and are actively seeking additional funding. Ms. Brindle stated staff expects to submit plans to NCDOT for the Main Street Project by mid-April that will include updated cost estimates and contract documents. She noted staff is working on the right-of-way certification and once staff receives feedback from the NCDOT the information will be presented to Council. Ms. Brindle reviewed the design for the Downtown Waterline Upgrades. She noted that this project is funded separately from the Main Street Project. She stated staff will coordinate the project to reduce its impact on downtown. City Manager Jim Greene thanked Ms. Brindle for her presentation. DOWNTOWN SALISBURY SOCIAL DISTRICT Downtown Development Director Sada Troutman addressed Council regarding proposed revisions to the Downtown Salisbury Social District Ordinance which include the removal of exemptions to allow the Social District at public street festivals and City events at Bell Tower Green during park hours. She indicated the request has strong support from businesses who participate in the Social District. Ms. Troutman commented she spoke with the Police Department, Parks and Recreation, and staff who agreed with the revisions and did not foresee future safety issues. She added she spoke with Alcohol Law Enforcement (ALE) and statewide agents who work on Social Districts and she did not receive opposition. She noted the revisions are consistent with what other communities offer, and she noted the other regulations in the Ordinance would remain the same. Mayor Sheffield thanked Ms. Troutman for her presentation. She pointed out the City's Social District included more safety precautions than most other communities with an to amend the regulations as needed to improve the district. Mayor Pro Tem McLaughlin thanked Ms. Troutman for her work on the proposed revisions to the Social District regulations, and he asked if she spoke to the Bell Tower Greene Committee. Ms. Troutman noted she spoke with. Parks and Recreation staff that handles programming at the park and other City Departments. Mayor Pro Tem McLaughlin suggested she speak with the Bell Tower Greene Committee members regarding the proposed changes. Salisbury City Council April 15 2025 Page 11 Thereupon, Councilmember Kluttz made a motion to adopt an Ordinance amending Chapter 22 oft the City Code to remove Exemptions from the Downtown Salisbury Social District Ordinance. Mayor Sheffield, Mayor Pro Tem McLaughlin and Councilmembers Jackson, Kluttz and Post voted AYE. (5-0) ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 22 OF THE CITY CODE TO REMOVE EXEMPTIONS FROM THE DOWNTOWN SALISBURY SOCIAL DISTRICT ORDINANCE. (The above Ordinance is recorded in full in Ordinance Book No. 33 at Page No. 125-127, and is known as Ordinance 2025-30) PERMITTED EVENTS City Attorney Graham Corriher presented information regarding proposed Ordinance revisions to address interference at permitted events hosted on City property. He stated the issue is when individuals go inside an event with amplified sound to purposefully interrupt the event. He explained the existing Ordinance prohibits interfering with an event, but it requires staff or police officers to make judgements regarding if the sound is loud enough to cause an interference. He added individual decisions are difficult to make in the moment on a fair and consistent basis. He pointed out sometimes the individual will be asked to move and sometimes they are not asked to move. He added the problem needs to be addressed in a consistent manner SO permit holders and attendees can enjoy their event without interruptions. Mr. Corriher noted the proposed revision addresses the use of amplified sound within permitted events without the permission of the permit holder. He asked Council to consider amending the Ordinance to prohibit the use of amplified sound within the perimeter of permitted events by individuals who do not have the permission of the permit holder. He added that by working with Parks and Recreation Department and the Police Department, staff will have a map of the permitted events footprint and consistency of enforcement should not be an issue. He presented revisions to the Ordinance, and he clarified there should not be any interference with an event, or it is unlawful, this includes any use of amplified noise by someone without permission of the permit holder. He added ifthe interference is not by amplified sound but is too loud that is still considered interfering, and the point ofthe revision is to call out amplified sound and prohibit that within the perimeter of the event. Mr. Corriher pointed out the revisions are: meant to regulate unwelcome noise. He noted it does not matter what is being said, but it is the use of the amplified device that is prohibited. He referenced General Status 160A-175, and he explained because the Ordinance includes criminal penalties a second reading is required at Council's s next meeting. He pointed out the revisions are consistent with City code and there is no interest in arresting people, but to educate what is allowed and not allowed and give them a chance to comply. He commented that entorcement and criminal penalties are available, but not as a first option. Salisbury City Council April 15 2025 Page 12 Councilmember Post noted amplified sound will travel further than 100 feet. Mr. Corriher noted case law supports 100 feet. He added the proposed revisions can be brought back to Council for further direction ifiti is not effective. He noted the perimeter of the event is larger than the core event, and he added there is an additional buffer built in with the perimeter of the park including closed streets and natural buffers. Councilmember Kluttz noted the revisions are a good start. Mayor Sheffield agreed, and sheindicated the proposal is fair and consistent for permit holders and non-permit holders that have ai message. She added those who have paid to host an event should not be disrupted by those who have not paid for spaces. Thereupon, Councilmember Kluttz made a motion to adopt an Ordinance amending Chapter 22 Sections 22-121 and 22-123 of the City Code related to interference of permitted festivals. Mayor Sheffield, Mayor Pro Tem McLaughlin and Councilmembers Jackson, Kluttz and Post voted AYE. (5-0) ** It will be necessary to have a second reading on the above Ordinance. DEMOLITIONS Code Services Manager Michael Cotilla addresses Council regarding two residential properties with dilapidated structures that meet the requirements for demolition. He noted the proposed demolitions support the Strategic Plan key focus area of Healthy, Safe, and Engaged Neighborhoods. Mr. Cotilla pointed out 516 South Clay Street is owned by the late Irene Boyd, and he displayed photos of the property. He noted the property was cited for minimum housing violations on December 3, 2024, and posted the next day. He stated a minimum housing hearing was held on January 7, 2025, with no one attending and the Council meeting notice was posted on April 1, 2025. He explained that the estimated demolition and asbestos remediation cost is $11,500 and ifnot paid will result in a lien on the property. He noted in its current condition, the main dwelling is in a dilapidated state and meets or exceeds the threshold for demolition and should not be allowed to continue to deteriorate. He added staff recommends the complete demolition of the residential structure located at 516 South Clay Street. Mr. Cotilla explained 918 Newsome Road is owned by the heirs of Areta G. Allen, Wanda Jeter and Dianne Moore, and he displayed photos ofthe property. He noted the property was cited for minimum housing violations on December 11, 2024, and posted the next day. He stated a minimum housing hearing was held on January 15, 2025, with Ms. Jeter and Ms. Moore attending, and the Council meeting notice was posted on April 1, 2025. He explained the estimated demolition and asbestos remediation cost is $8,200 and if not paid will result in a lien on the property. He noted ini its current condition, the main dwelling and accessory structure are in a dilapidated state and meets or exceeds the threshold for demolition and should not be allowed to continue to deteriorate. He added staff recommends the complete demolition of the residential and accessory structure located at 918 Newsome Road. Salisbury City Council April 15 2025 Page 13 Thereupon, Councilmember Post made a motion to adopt an Ordinance to order the demolition of a dwelling unfit for human habitation located at 516 South Clay Street in the City of Salisbury, North Carolina. Mayor Sheffield, Mayor Pro Tem McLaughlin and Councilmembers Jackson, Kluttz and Post voted AYE. (5-0) ORDINANCE TO ORDER THE DEMOLITION OF A DWELLING UNFIT FOR HOMAN HABITATION LOCATED AT 516 SOUTH CLAY STREET IN THE CITY OF SALISBURY, NORTH CAROLINA. (The above Ordinance is recorded in full in Ordinance Book No. 33 at Page No. 128-129, and is known as Ordinance 2025-31) Thereupon, Councilmember Post made a motion to adopt an Ordinance to order the demolition of a dwelling unfit for human habitation located at 918 Newsome Road in the City of Salisbury, North Carolina. Mayor Sheffield, Mayor Pro Tem McLaughlin and Councilmembers Jackson, Kluttz and Post voted AYE. (5-0) ORDINANCE TO ORDER THE DEMOLITION OF A DWELLING UNFIT FOR HUMAN HABITATION LOCATED AT 918 NEWSOME ROAD IN THE CITY OF SALISBURY, NORTH CAROLINA. (The above Ordinance is recorded in full in Ordinance Book No. 33 at Page No. 130-131, and is known as Ordinance 2025-32) BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS Human Relations Commission Upon a motion by Councilmember Post with Mayor Sheffield, Mayor Pro Tem McLaughlin, and Councilmembers Jackson, Kluttz and Post voting AYE, the following appointment was made to the Human Relations Commission to fill an unexpired term: Mr. Kevin McClain Term Expires 3/31/2027 Planning Board Upon a motion by Councilmember Post with Mayor Sheffield, Mayor Pro Tem McLaughlin, and Councilmembers Jackson, Kluttz and Post voting AYE, the following appointment was made to the Planning Board to fill an unexpired term: Mr. Randall Bragg Term Expires 3/31/2026 Salisbury City Council April 15 2025 Page 14 Tree Board Upon a motion by Councilmember Post with Mayor Sheffield, Mayor Pro Tem McLaughlin, and Councilmembers Jackson, Kluttz and Post voting AYE, the following appointment was made to the Tree Board to fill an unexpired term: Ms. Ann Kitalong-Will Term Expires 3/31/2026 CITY MANAGER'S REPORT City Manager Jim Greene noted staff works closely with the North Carolina League of Municipalities (NCLM) to evaluate and track state legislation. He added staff joins calls each Friday with other cities and the NCLM to evaluate various bills and the impact it may have on cities throughout the state. Mr. Greene referenced House Bill 765, and he asked Assistant City Manager Kelly Baker to provide an update and recommendation for Council to approve a Resolution stating Council's opposition to the bill. He noted the bill is causing concern for cities throughout North Carolina. He added cities in Rowan Couty have already passed a Resolution opposing the bill and he feels it is important for the Salisbury to do the same as the bill restricts local government's ability to regulate housing development and land use. Ms. Baker pointed out House Bill 765 is 22 pages long and will significantly alter land use authority with a list of state mandates and bans. She noted the City is concerned the bill could: Lead to unregulated and incompatible development that would lower tax values Create a loss of local autonomy by eliminating the ability of local governments and developers to negotiate voluntarily conditions and conditional zoning process Ban municipalities from regulating parking and adopting street design standards above North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) requirements Establishes new minimal density requirements based solely on population size Ms. Baker explained no two communities are the same and this bill would take away the ability ofl local governments to provide the best fit for their communities. Ms. Baker stated two other sections of the bill would impose vague conflict of interest standards which would disqualify officials from voting on Iand use matters if they held a fixed opinion which is subjective and not defined. She added the bill introduces civil penalties for Planning Board and City Council members if these proposed rules are violated or a person acts outside of their scope as defined by the state. Ms. Baker noted staff: is very concerned and working with the NCLM, their lobbyist, and the City's lobbyist regarding the bill. She noted the State Chamber of Commerce Association supports the bill and has asked the Rowan Chamber to consider supporting it as well. She commented the bill is said to address affordable housing, but it does not. She noted almost all Salisbury City Council April 15 2025 Page 15 municipalities in Rowan County are considering adoption of a Resolution to show unified opposition to this bill and the impact it has on local governments. Councilmember Post noted House Representative Harry Waren is not a sponsor ofthis bill, and he asked if staff has received any feedback from him. Ms. Baker noted staff has not heard from Representative Warren. Councilmember Kluttz stated if the bill passed it could be harmful to cities, and it is important that the City makes its voice heard as soon as possible. Thereupon, Councilmember Kluttz made motion to adopt the Resolution opposing legislative preemption of local planning and zoning authority. Mayor Sheffield, Mayor Pro Tem McLaughlin and Councilmembers Jackson, Kluttz and Post voted AYE. (5-0) RESOLUTION OPPOSING LEGISLATIVE PREEMPTION OF LOCAL PLANNING AND ZONING AUTHORITY. (The above Resolution is recorded in full in Resolution Book No. 17 at Page No. 23-24, and is known as Resolution 2025-18.) Mayor Sheffield thanked Ms. Baker, Mr. Greene, and City Attorney Graham Corriher for their work on the Resolution and getting the information to Council. She noted the importance of the Resolution and opposing the bill for Salisbury and every municipality across the state. COUNCIL COMMENTS Councilmember Kluttz referenced Professional Municipal Clerk's week, and she thanked City Clerk Connie Snyder for the work she does for the City. Mayor Shefield and Council agreed. Councilmember Post noted the information presented on the traffic calming study was phenomenal. He added Council will miss Transportation Director Wendy Brindle, and he thanked her for her service to the City. Councilmember Post suggested staff look at the impact on the City if House Bill 765 passes. City Manager Jim Greene explained staff will continue to provide information obtained at the weekly legislative meetings to the Management Team and Council. Councilmember Jackson thanked Transportation Director Wendy Brindle for her service to the City. MAYOR PRO TEM COMMENTS Mayor Pro Tem McLaughlin congratulated Transportation Director Wendy Brindle on her upcoming retirement, and he thanked her for the great work she has done for the City. Salisbury City Council April 15 2025 Page 16 MAYOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS AND COMMENTS Mayor Sheffield wished Transportation Director Wendy Brindle well on her retirement. (a) Dr. Elizabeth Duncan Koontz Humanitarian Award Nominations Mayor Sheffield announced the Human Relations Commission is accepting nominations for the 2025 Dr. Elizabeth Duncan Koontz Humanitarian Awards. These awards honor individuals and groups in the community who work to improve human relations and provide community service. Nominations will be accepted until Friday, April 18th. To nominate a person or group call (704) 638-5220. (b) Sidewalk Poetry Project In celebration of National Poetry Month, the Public Arts Commission is seeking poems for its first Sidewalk Poetry Project to be installed on sidewalks within downtown Salisbury. There is no cost to enter and selected poets will receive a $125 stipend per poem. Entries will be accepted until Monday, April 28th. For more information call (704) 638-5235. (c) Cultivating Community Conversations The Police Department will host Cultivating Community Conversations Tuesday, April 29th at 5:30 p.m. at the Park Avenue Community Center located at 632 Park Avenue. The community is invited to attend, and food will be served. For more information call (704) 638- 5218. (d) 2025 Block Work Applications Applications are being accepted for neighborhood participation in the 2025 Block Work event scheduled for Saturday, October 25th. The deadline for applying is May 1st. For more information call (704) 638-5235. ADJOURNMENT Motion to adjourn the meeting was made by Councilmember Post. Mayor Sheffield, Mayor Pro Tem McLaughlin and Councilmembers Jackson, Kluttz and Post voted AYE. (5-0) The meeting was adjourned at 8:49 p.m. 31 - - aom Tamara Sheffield, Mabr Couue obrupt Connie B. Snyder, City Clerk Salisbury City Council April 15 2025 Page 17