Planning – Planner Robert Lewis informed the Board that NCDOT has scheduled a public meeting regarding project U-5862, conversion of Smith Avenue intersection to interchange. The meeting is scheduled for Monday, May 22, 2017 from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at New Beginnings Church on Whiteville Road. Public Works Administration Finance – Finance Director Mimi Gaither presented the monthly financial report, date ending April 27, 2017. All departments are within their operating budgets as of this date. She also commented that the Town should receive word soon from FEMA regarding the claims submitted for debris, police and fire overtime and sewer pumps damaged during Hurricane Matthew. The cost of replacement pumps is in excess of $60,000. Ms. Gaither will keep the Board informed. Parks, Rec & Events – Mayor Eccard stated the very first wedding ceremony took place at Mulberry Park this past weekend. Mayor’s Monthly Activities – A motion was made by Carson Durham seconded by Gene Vasile to allow the Mayor to send a letter to our legislators opposing the proposed change to sales tax. Motion carried 5 yes 0 no. Joseph Hicks and his mother were present regarding Joseph’s desire to place a small free food pantry in Shallotte, preferably on Town property. Several staff members have already met with Joseph to discuss his project. Currently there is a small pantry located at the Boiling Spring Lakes Community Rec Center, which houses approximately 1,500 cans of food. The pantry is placed outside so people can get as needed. There have not been any reports of issues at this site. Joseph stated it costs $147 to build each pantry. He has approached several Girl Scout troops, and if approved, they will make a 10% donation. The Board had concerns about vandalism, etc., but was very much in favor of Joseph’s project and commended him highly at eight (8) years of age, his enthusiasm and dream that no one in the world would ever go hungry. A motion was made by Gene Vasile seconded by Carson Durham to give the pantry a six (6) month trial run. He will work with staff and move forward with his project. Motion carried 5 yes 0 no. Staff will update the Board accordingly. PUBLIC COMMENTS (3 minutes or less per person please)
Planning – Planner Robert Lewis informed the Board that NCDOT has scheduled a public meeting regarding project U-5862, conversion of Smith Avenue intersection to interchange. The meeting is scheduled for Monday, May 22, 2017 from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at New Beginnings Church on Whiteville Road. Public Works Administration Finance – Finance Director Mimi Gaither presented the monthly financial report, date ending April 27, 2017. All departments are within their operating budgets as of this date. She also commented that the Town should receive word soon from FEMA regarding the claims submitted for debris, police and fire overtime and sewer pumps damaged during Hurricane Matthew. The cost of replacement pumps is in excess of $60,000. Ms. Gaither will keep the Board informed. Parks, Rec & Events – Mayor Eccard stated the very first wedding ceremony took place at Mulberry Park this past weekend. Mayor’s Monthly Activities – A motion was made by Carson Durham seconded by Gene Vasile to allow the Mayor to send a letter to our legislators opposing the proposed change to sales tax. Motion carried 5 yes 0 no. Joseph Hicks and his mother were present regarding Joseph’s desire to place a small free food pantry in Shallotte, preferably on Town property. Several staff members have already met with Joseph to discuss his project. Currently there is a small pantry located at the Boiling Spring Lakes Community Rec Center, which houses approximately 1,500 cans of food. The pantry is placed outside so people can get as needed. There have not been any reports of issues at this site. Joseph stated it costs $147 to build each pantry. He has approached several Girl Scout troops, and if approved, they will make a 10% donation. The Board had concerns about vandalism, etc., but was very much in favor of Joseph’s project and commended him highly at eight (8) years of age, his enthusiasm and dream that no one in the world would ever go hungry. A motion was made by Gene Vasile seconded by Carson Durham to give the pantry a six (6) month trial run. He will work with staff and move forward with his project. Motion carried 5 yes 0 no. Staff will update the Board accordingly. PUBLIC COMMENTS (3 minutes or less per person please)