Matthew Boswell

Key discussion topics for the meeting included considering resolutions to amend the Electric Rate Ordinance, calling for public hearings on initial zoning for 3406 Old Airport Road and rezoning for 1100 Pinetree Drive, and initiating the upset bid process for properties at 927 Sampson Street and 1427 Lincoln Street. Other agenda items involved a presentation on MPO Boundary Expansion Efforts, an update on the Historic Preservation Commission, discussion of a Pay-As-You-Go Utility Payment Service, and considering the dissolution of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee. The Board also addressed several resolutions related to CDBG Housing Rehabilitation Program Policies, approving streetlights, approving mutual aid and interagency agreements, approving the sale of three properties on Hartford and Main Streets, requesting local bills concerning minimum housing penalties and specific NCGS provisions, prohibiting parking between Craven and Middle Streets, and approving a Debt Management Policy. Additionally, ordinances were considered to amend street classifications (one-way and two-hour parking zones) and amend various financial funds, including the 2019 Electric Improvements Fund, 212 Kale Road Fund, Roadway Improvements Fund, and the Entitlement Cities Community Development Block Grant Fund, as well as adopting a Budget Ordinance Amendment for Fiscal Year 2026. The agenda concluded with reports from the Attorney and City Manager, appointments, new business, and a closed session.

This document provides a status update on the drafting of the New Bern Land Use Ordinance, outlining strategic goals to enhance the city's development regulations. Key objectives include making regulations user-friendly, improving graphic communication, streamlining development review, and fostering sustainable growth with diverse housing options. The plan also focuses on modernizing land uses and zoning, and strategically managing changes in density, land uses, and non-conformities, with the adoption process anticipated to commence in 2026 following a project initiation in 2024.

The meeting agendas cover several topics for the outgoing and incoming Board of Aldermen. Key discussion items include the administration of oaths of office to the Mayor and Aldermen, approval of previous minutes, and recognition of a retired K-9 service animal with consideration for its disposition. Resolutions were slated for adoption concerning the initiation of upset bid processes for several properties (1108 LaGrange Street, 1103 Biddle Street, 1131 H Street, and 830 Eubanks Street). Other agenda items involved approving General Warranty Deeds with Habitat for Humanity of Craven County, NC, for properties on Hartford Avenue and Aycock Avenue, general appointments, department reports, comments from outgoing board members, and planning for a subsequent board retreat on January 07, 2026. A resolution to rezone 507 Contentnea Avenue and a request to close specific streets for the Vision Forward's Black History Parade were also scheduled for consideration.

The Board of Aldermen meeting included several key actions under the Consent Agenda, such as considering the adoption of a Proclamation for Arbor Day, adopting resolutions validating the firefighter roster for the NC Firefighters' and Rescue Squad Workers' Pension Fund, closing specific streets for the First Capital Antique Automobile Club of America Car Show, and initiating the Upset Bid Process for two properties: 1205 Mechanic Street and 615 First Avenue. Presentations were given regarding the establishment of "Patriot Square" by SAR/DAR, the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report and Audit for Fiscal Year Ending June 30, 2025, and the receipt of the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award. The Board also conducted a Public Hearing and considered rezoning 507 Contentnea Avenue from R-8 Residential to C-4 Commercial, considered closing streets for a Mardi Gras Parade and Festival, supported an application for the BUILD Grant Program for "A Safer Neuse for New Bern" Project, considered prohibiting parking in the parcel connecting Craven and Middle Streets, and considered adopting an Ordinance Amending Chapter 70 "Traffic and Vehicles." The agenda concluded with considering a Budget Ordinance Amendment for FY26 and making various Appointments.

The Board of Aldermen meeting addressed the adoption of resolutions initiating the upset bid process for several properties: 824 Lees Avenue, 1205 Mechanic Street, and 606 White Street. Public hearings and subsequent ordinances were passed to rezone 3610 M. L. King, Jr. Boulevard to C-3 Commercial, rezone 1506 S. Glenburnie Road to C-3 Commercial, and initially zone 4301 US Hwy. 70E as C-3 Commercial. The request to rezone 3328 Neuse Boulevard from C-4 to C-3 Commercial was tabled pending further staff review regarding potential use conflicts with the land use plan. Key discussions also involved an update on new utility bill printing services, the approval for the sale of three properties (841 Bloomfield Street, 841 Pavie Avenue, and 827 Bloomfield Street), and the reappointment of three members to the Municipal Service District Advisory Committee. Alderman Aster allocated $1,000 from ARP funds to Craven Pamlico TNR Project.