Town of Dobson

Key discussions during the meeting included the approval of a Consent Agenda covering the 8/22/2024 Regular Meeting Minutes, a Road Closure Ordinance, purchases for Fire Engine Pump and Elevator Motor replacements, easement acceptance, grant resolutions, and the FY 2024 Audit Contract. A public hearing was held regarding cell tower leases for Carolina West Wireless at the Spoon Street Water Tank and Pine Ridge Water Tower, both of which were subsequently approved for ten-year terms with 3% increases. The board approved the Red Ribbon Week Proclamation for October 2024. The FY 2022-2023 audit presentation was accepted. Updates were provided on the Dobson Community Library, finance reports indicating significant available funds, and the establishment of a special event permit fee structure. Department head updates covered police activity, Public Works progress on SCADA parts, and fire department outreach. The board also approved an administrative certification increase effective 10/1/2024. Following a closed session concerning Economic Development, the board approved a Memorandum of Understanding and a budget amendment related to the Economic Development Partnership.

The meeting began with the Chairman reading the proposed Public Forum Policy, which was subsequently adopted by motion. The primary discussion focused on Case RZCZ 25-01, a request to rezone parcel 497600577067 from B2 to LI. Town Manager Jeff Sedlacek presented the staff recommendation for the rezoning, emphasizing its cohesiveness. An EDP Representative further stressed that the property focus is on promoting employment rather than retail. Following a public forum where residents expressed concerns regarding traffic and potential influx of people, the Board ultimately voted to recommend the rezoning from B2 to LI and adopt the consistency statement for the case.

The meeting included the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence for Bob Comer. Key discussions involved financial updates across the General, Water, and Sewer Funds, noting approximately $2.2 million in the bank and an upcoming $350,000 grant reimbursement. Department updates included progress on the new Police Department location, a recent incident involving a patrol car likely totaled during a police chase, interest in a five-year vehicle leasing program from Enterprise, and confirmation that the second chance program is ongoing. Other topics included updates on the Water Treatment Plant (WTP) project progress, the adoption of an ordinance for a Christmas Parade street closure, reappointment of Jamie Tilley to an alternate seat on a board, selection of December 13th for the Christmas Luncheon, updates on recreation activities like the Spooktacular and the upcoming ice-skating rink opening, and manager updates regarding tree removal behind town hall and planned collaboration with Surry County on zoning ordinance language updates.

Key discussions during the meeting included an open forum where a resident expressed interest in the planning board and raised concerns about cemetery plot documentation, suggesting the reestablishment of the cemetery committee. The board received a finance report indicating solid fund status and learned that the draft audit contained no deficiencies. A surprise presentation recognized a Police Officer for earning an Advanced Law Enforcement Certificate. The Library Board provided an update highlighting strong circulation numbers, plans for restarting story time, and the acquisition of new Chromebooks with hotspots. The main action item involved discussing the purchase of a ladder truck to improve the ISO rating, resulting in a consensus to keep the old truck and make an offer on a larger one, contingent upon securing adequate housing for both vehicles. Regarding ARP Funds, the final rule allows for use as revenue replacement, and funds are deemed sufficient for the approved truck purchase. Board appointments were confirmed, including reappointments to the library board and an appointment to the planning board. The annual calendar was adopted, scheduling monthly meetings and setting the budget retreat date. Department head updates covered high case volumes and personnel changes for the Police Department, ongoing water/sewer projects and supply chain delays for Public Works, and updates on Spring Folly planning and the ice-skating rink for Recreation. A high quote was reviewed for ADA compliance and renovation work on the Community Building, and the board approved appropriating $8,500 for the town's portion of a 50/50 grant to purchase Fire Department turnout gear. Finally, an update was provided on the greenway project, pending a quote from the engineering firm.

Key discussions included the proclamation of April as Child Abuse Prevention Month. A presentation from the North Carolina Department of Commerce highlighted the benefits of strategic economic development planning for Downtown Dobson, leading to a general consensus to proceed with a full strategic plan, with an MOU to be drafted for the next meeting. The board also reached a general consensus to move forward with a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for an engineering firm regarding a Water and Sewer Asset Inventory Assessment Grant. Department updates were provided by Police, Public Works, and Town Manager regarding fire department pump testing. Board appointments were made to the Piedmont Triad Regional Council Board and the Transportation Board-Tech Advisory Council. Additionally, funding of $500.00 was approved for the Dobson Community Library's summer reading program, and an annexation petition received for 663 Rockford Rd will be discussed at the next meeting.