Josh Watkins

The document summarizes the Cramerton Board of Commissioners' retreat, which focused on strategic planning for the Town of Cramerton. It establishes a vision for promoting historic charm, strong connections, and responsible growth, and outlines five multi-year goals: achieving organizational excellence, preserving heritage and managing growth, strengthening infrastructure, supporting public safety and resilience, and protecting open spaces and expanding recreational opportunities. These discussions aim to guide project identification and the budget process for FY27.

The agenda includes a proclamation for National Police Week, South Fork Watershed updates, and discussion of the budget and VCM 1F presentation. Also includes discussion of an interlocal agreement for tax collection between the Town of Cramerton and Gaston County. A public hearing is scheduled for rezoning case # RZ25-05 Courtyards on New Hope Commercial Amendments.

The meeting included proclamations recognizing the Citizen of the Year and Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, as well as special recognition for a Planning Board and Zoning Board of Adjustment member. The Town of Cramerton 2024 Audited Financial Statements were presented, highlighting increased General Fund Revenues and Total Fund Balance. Public hearings were held for conditional rezoning requests, including Redhawk Phase 4 and DRB Residential, and amendments to the Mill Village Overlay. The Town Manager shared updates on the town newsletter, audit efforts, and budget surplus due to careful spending and savings.

The meeting included an Arbor Day Proclamation and a presentation on the CDBG Baltimore Grant, with updates on current and upcoming work. Public hearings were set for multiple rezoning cases, including those for Mattamy Homes, the Mill Village Character Protection Overlay District, and the Wilkinson Boulevard Overlay District. Speed study results for Chesterfield Drive, Mayflower Avenue, and Front Street were discussed, with potential mitigation strategies considered. An update was provided on the Downtown Streetscape project, and a Town employee was recognized for assisting another department. Updates were given on the new dog park, and commissioners thanked staff for their efforts.

The meeting included an ABC Board presentation, providing updates on revenue distribution, alcohol education funds, and future plans including store upgrades and potential satellite stores. Discussions also covered the Redhawk Phase 4 Conditional Rezoning and an ordinance regarding unmuffled compression brakes. The board approved the purchase of a new HVAC unit for Town Hall and received updates on the Centennial Park ribbon-cutting, the Graham and Gayle Bell Pavilion, and the Two Rivers pressure reducer valve project. Commissioners discussed a digital platform for meetings, recognized the fire department's regional media coverage, and addressed community concerns such as vacant houses and infrastructure improvements.