Michael Childers

The meeting commenced with a moment of silence for the Reverend Jesse Jackson and an invocation. Guidelines for public comment were established, emphasizing respectful and constructive dialogue, and prohibiting threatening comments. Key discussion points included resident concerns regarding inadequately repaired yard following a water line break, and the lack of enforcement for animal registration ordinances, including the suggested implementation of animal chipping. Council also addressed water quality issues, noting the town now receives water from the county. A five-year service award was presented to an employee. A significant portion of the meeting involved a presentation regarding the Twin Valley Golf Club, proposing the creation of a committee to evaluate moving the amenity to a city-owned municipal golf club to serve as a community hub and revenue source. Additionally, a change order for the SRPWRP-0153 opera project was presented, detailing the removal of certain scope items (highlighted in yellow on a map) due to cost overruns after initial bids were unsuccessful, necessitating a state-approved change order and deferred work to a waiting list for potential future funding.

Key discussions included public comments regarding an abandoned home and commendation for securing a wastewater systems upgrade grant. Old Business featured the approval of amending the FY 25-26 fee schedule, adjusting various fees to zero for certain documents, and approving contracted services with Centralina for the 850k Streetscape Project grant application administration. New Business involved the approval of several budget amendments for the General Fund, Water/Sewer Fund, and Splashpad, along with professional service engagement letters for financial statement preparation and tax accounting. Additionally, the Council approved contracted services for Emergency Services management, Zoning Services, paving, and Building Repairs/Exterior Painting for Town Hall. The status of the depleting Town Fleet prompted the addition of an RFP for Fleet financing, leading to approval for the purchase of several trucks and equipment trailers, and approval to submit an RFP for financing a new Fire Truck. Town staff reports covered Fire Department smoke detector initiatives and upcoming hydrate testing, Police Department community engagement activities, and a detailed financial update showing improved operating positions in key funds compared to the prior year. The meeting concluded with a closed session to discuss personnel qualifications/performance and contract negotiation strategy.

The meeting commenced with the administration of the Oath of Office to the Interim Police Chief. The agenda was amended to include a closed session. Key discussions included an update on the CBDG Neighborhood Revitalization Program, approval of resolutions updating Finance Officer designations and bank account signatory authorizations. During public comments, the Uptown Wadesboro representatives requested Town consideration for budget line item support for the July 4th fireworks event, and a resident inquired about youth programs offered within the city. New business involved approving funding for a Stormwater Planning Grant and approving the 2024-25 Annual Operating Budget Amendment, as well as the appointment of an individual as Deputy Tax Collector. Town staff reported on street repairs utilizing Powell Bill money, updates on recent shooting investigations, the upcoming certification of a new K9 unit, and issues related to credit card processing reconciliation impacting December financials. Budget workshop dates were set for February and March. The Mayor volunteered to serve on the Centralina delegate board. The session concluded with a closed session to discuss public officer qualifications.

Key discussions included the presentation of a proclamation to Harvest Ministries for 26 years of dedicated service. A public hearing was held regarding a proposed rezoning request for property located on 52 North between 742 and Lewis Street from R-20 to R-6, which was later approved as new business. Old business addressed the approval of a proposed contract with Ensafe INC for EPA sample testing, an Inter-Local Agreement for Police Assistance with Anson County Sheriff Department, and the approval of fencing in the Splashpad. New business also included the presentation of a service plaque to an employee. Town staff reports covered updates on the operational status of the Splashpad, success of the Smoke Alarm Saturday event, current police staffing levels and hiring progress, water meter reading cycles and leak repairs, ongoing sewer pump station work, street maintenance, and challenges with the primary sanitation truck. The Finance Officer reported that expenditures currently exceed revenue in the General Fund, although cash investments have increased year-over-year. The Town Manager provided updates on the youth summer program, the start of the FY 24-25 audit process, and staffing challenges due to retirements.

The meeting commenced with a public hearing regarding a proposed zoning request to rezone property at 1124 E. Caswell Street from General Business R20 to R6 to allow for the construction of 72 units of workforce housing apartments. Following the public hearing, the council voted to approve the rezoning request to R5. New Business included the approval to contract services with The Map Group for a Personnel Policy, Pay and Classification Study, changing Town Hall hours to 9am to 5pm, and implementing a Public Request Policy. Budget amendments for the General Fund, General Fund-Police Restriction, and General Fund-Water/Sewer-ARPA were also approved. The Fire Department received approval for its upcoming summer camp (June 9-13, 2025) and updates were provided on smoke alarm installations and grant applications for water rescue equipment and turn out gear. The Public Works Director reported on the Stormwater project and the Burn Street Pump Station. The Finance Officer presented financial status as of January 31st, noting improved revenue collection and a reduced deficit compared to the previous year. The Interim Police Chief addressed dog complaints, provided statistics on calls for service, arrests, and citations for February, and noted a change in terminology for housing projects. Finally, the Town Manager confirmed the submission of the 2023/2024 audit, scheduled a special meeting for the audit presentation on March 24, and announced Spring Cleanup Day for April 12th.