Kim Rose

This document outlines the design principles and standards for the New Bern Historic District. It serves as a comprehensive guide for property owners regarding maintenance, modifications, and additions. Key focus areas include site and setting considerations, design attributes, specific design components, appropriate materials and best practices, and overall preservation methodologies. The primary objective is to preserve the historic character and architectural fabric of the district while allowing for complementary changes and guiding property owners through the Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) process.

The Board of Aldermen conducted a budget work session to review the recommended FY2026-27 budget. Key discussion topics included the classification pay plan, staffing position changes, various department budget reviews, capital expenses, and proposed fees for city services. The Board approved the addition of an Engineering Manager position and an Accounting and Administrative Coordinator position. Furthermore, the meeting covered an update on the general obligation bond project, the removal of certain fees and utility budget allocations, and the adoption of a resolution opposing specific local legislation regarding the filling of board vacancies.

The board meeting agenda focused on the adoption of the final budget ordinance for the upcoming fiscal year. Key topics included updates on public safety, water resource quality, city financials, general obligation bonds, economic development, and electric utility operations. The board also held discussions regarding various boards and commissions, the strategic plan, department project statuses, proposed ordinance updates, and the potential issuance of revenue bonds for enterprise funds.

The meeting agenda includes considerations for street closures for community events, initiating upset bid processes for multiple properties, renaming an avenue, and designating a proclamation for Parks and Recreation Month. The Board will conduct public hearings regarding initial zoning, rezoning, and text amendments to the Land Use Ordinance for animal services. Furthermore, the meeting covers the approval of the CDBG Annual Action Plan, authorization of grant applications, revisions to financial and capital asset policies, the designation of an official depository, and amendments to the electric service schedule, watercraft regulations, and fee schedules.

The Board addressed several property-related resolutions, including the sale of vacant residential lots and the closure of streets for various community events. Discussions also covered an amended ordinance for rezoning parcels on Neuse Boulevard, a request to expedite street repaving, the recognition of New Bern 101 graduates, and a public hearing on the proposed fiscal year budget. The Board further evaluated proposals for a feasibility study regarding a family-oriented entertainment complex, discussed a draft strategic plan, authorized the release of a sewer easement, and approved a grant application for the Historic Riverside inventory. Additionally, policy updates for internal controls, procurement, and conflict-of-interest were adopted, a budget ordinance amendment was approved, and the Board deliberated on future appointments to the Redevelopment Commission, local legislative bills regarding election cycles, downtown development planning, and speeding concerns.