NEW BERN BOARD OF ALDERMEN MEETING--AUGUST 7, 2013

  CCTA WATCHDOG REPORT

NEW BERN BOARD OF ALDERMEN

SPECIAL CALLED MEETING OF 7 AUGUST 2013

Meeting convened at 6 PM with Alderman Taylor being the only absentee.  There was only one agenda item, that being "Discussion of the approved 146-12 easement."  (important to note the word "approved" here).  The meeting was noticed at least on the City's Facebook page on Friday, Aug 2, 2013.  This agenda also appeared on the City website; however, contrary to previous practice, there was not a posting date listed.  Also, it was not published in the online edition of the NB Sun Journal.  My email to the newspaper asking if they received a notice has gone unanswered.    

However, according to the Aug 8 NB Sun Journal article, "Aldermen hold contentious meeting about marina easement",  this meeting was convened for the purpose of someone (board members, public, everyone?) discussing submitting the city's application for a 146-12 easement.  But, we all know that government proceedings and decisions do not rely on the media's interpretations of government documents.   If this easement is truly "approved", why does the agenda item read that the meeting's purpose is for discussion vice announcement of what this approved easement means to the citizens and marina users as well as other particulars about the actual approval?  Particulars such as:  I thought the NCGA had to approve a 146-12 easement?  Did that already happen? 

According to the Sun Journal article, a portion of the reporting developed from interviews with city officials and overheard discussions held in the hallway outside the meeting room and after the actual BOA meeting.  It noted that Alderman Bucher disagrees with both Alderman Outlaw and Mayor Bettis that an actual vote on this matter was taken.  If the easement was approved, how could that be when the local aldermen aren't even certain if they voted the application to be moved along to the NCGA?  Or, if Alderman Bucher is correct that there was not a vote, yet this 146-12 easement is indeed approved, is it now subject to being rescinded?   Why is it acceptable or appropriate for Mayor Bettis and Aldermen Outlaw and Bucher to gnash teeth, outside of the public meeting yet in the midst of some of the public and at least one reporter, over whether a legal vote approving either an application for the easement or the easement itself was taken during a prior City of New Bern board meeting?       

An email I obtained from a city official in February 2013 (when I was seeking info about how the BOA approval for the $30K in total for the City Manager's bonus came to be during a planning retreat) which included the board members' discussion of subject easement and its resulting decisions from the Saturday morning Feb 16, 2013 Board Retreat chronicles the proceedings in these ways:  

(a)  A Feb 18, 2013 email from City Manager Epperson to the Mayor and Board members forwarded Mr. Epperson's notes on the Retreat's proceedings regarding this subject and reads,  

To clarify what the City can and can't do that permits it to apply for this easement now, and to try to validate Mayor Bettis' claim within the last paragraph of the same Sun Journal article that "the city already has the authority to apply for a G.S. 146-12 easement because it was voted on...", may end up requiring a legal opinion on what the meaning of the word "and" is.  I wonder if this will require another expenditure of taxpayer money on yet another out-of-town attorney to render the opinion? 

• "Discuss application for 146-12 waterfront easement -

• The BOA discussed the history of the waterfront development directly behind the Double Tree Hotel and the associated easements that have been issued to the marina owner.  There was further discussion regarding concerns over the access to our waterfront and concerns over the current financial status of the marina ownership.  Several members of the BOA expressed concerns over the appropriateness of previous easements being issued by the NC Department of Real Estate. Direction was given to bring forth a future resolution authorizing the Mayor to sign application for a 146-12 easement on behalf of the City of New Bern.  Further direction was given to begin to evaluate the feasibility of the City purchasing the marina."  (Note:  the underline was done by the City Mgr). 

(b)  A Feb 19, 2013 email from Alderman Bengel to City Manager Epperson forwarding her notes about the Retreat reads:

"2. Discussion on waterfront easement
Directed mr epperson to look at purchase of marina and
applying for 146 -12"

The official BOA minutes of Feb 16, 2013 read: 

(c)  Discuss application for 146-12 waterfront easement

The waterfront easement was discussed. The Board directed Mr. Epperson to look at purchasing the marina and applying for a 146-12 easement."
 

I remind the readers that compiling the minutes for the Feb 16Retreat required lengthy, heated Board discussion during two regular BOA meetings (2-26-13 and 3-26-13) and a March 6, 2013 special called BOA session, wherein the City Attorney delivered a brief on what kind of Board member information constitutes minutes (notes, memory recollections, and/or video & audio recordings) and legal public meeting noticing.  Reason being is a similar disagreement arose over whether or not an official vote was taken to approve a $10,000 bonus for each of 3 years for City Manager Epperson.  Recall that the contentious discussions surrounding this previous Board member-and-citizen-contested agenda item also rested on the answer of "who approved what when, if at all?".    Despite all of those discussions, it still took an amended version of the minutes (and an extra 20 minutes to produce the appropriate wording) regarding that bonus vote to receive final Board approval at the March 26, 2013 board meeting.            

It's a shame that there is no City3TV video of this 2013 BOA Retreat, no professionally trained city clerk present that typically records the proceedings that will be voted into official minutes, was no live press coverage and that the only citizen who showed up (expressly to learn what the Board decided about the 146-12 easement, marina purchase and special appropriations' funding) was regular citizen Mr. Tony Bonnici who is presently a candidate for Ward 1 alderman.  He is also one of the original petitioners with the New Bern AWARE group (Against Water Access Right Encroachment) that hired now-Mayor Lee Bettis as their attorney in 2007.  The group's intent was to gain public access to the public trust waters that lie in the City.  It felt that would be accomplished by petitioning that year's Board of Aldermen to have the City file for an easement in the City's name; it did so at the Nov 27, 2007 BOA meeting.  Mr. Bonnici has kept up with and active in this issue unwaveringly ever since.  Unfortunately, to attend this Retreat, he had to find a Tryon Place NC History Center security guard to unlock doors and escort him to the upstairs meeting room where this open, legally noticed, public meeting convened.  If it had been recorded, it would have quickly cleared up two issues that have served to agitate the public and the taxpayers. (There is City3TV video posted for all other BOA meetings beginning with 1st live broadcast Apr 5, 2011, with one exception being the April 21, 2011 special town hall held at the downtown NB Library to discuss the city's intervention of the Duke Progress Merger and its estimated costs.  There is also video of a couple of March 2011 meetings pulled from other sources),  Word to the wise is to check the City website daily for the BOA agenda.

It often times is helpful for citizens to consult the city website under the Development Services Department tab and read the agendas for the other city boards, attend any of their meetings or watch them live, or view City3TV videos regarding issues they find will affect them.   Many of the issues that directly affect citizens, such as issuance of certificates of appropriateness (COAs) and zoning rulings originate during these boards' deliberations.  One of these boards' duties is to make recommendations to the Board of Aldermen prior to the aldermen voting.  Sometimes a solution or answers can be found by contacting overseeing staff members for these boards.  According to a source familiar with issues involving the marina, that advice may have helped in this instance 

The purpose of this meeting was not adjudicated due to members of the gallery disrupting the Board proceedings. Perhaps if the agenda had read, "Board discussion of submitting an application for the approval of a 146-12 easement", the gallery members would not have attended with the preconceived notion that their city government had enacted another done deal that affected an important aspect of their life or with expectations that they would allowed to voice their opinions as well as ask questions, and the meeting would have proceeded with proper decorum and could have been concluded?  Although I do not condone disruption of public meetings, many in the audience live on their boats at the marina and had true concerns for their safety and the environment that their domicile was located within.   For even more info on what transpired after the meeting, please read the NB Sun Journal newspaper article previously mentioned in this report.

Rhonda Taylor

CCTA Watchdog Reporter for NB Bd of Aldermen

Ward 6 

NEW BERN BOARD OF ALDERMEN REGULAR MEETING OF 9 JULY 2013

CCTA WATCHDOG REPORT FOR NEW BERN BOARD OF ALDERMEN REGULAR MEETING OF 9 JULY 2013 

1. The meeting was opened by Mayor Bettis. Alderman Bucher offered the opening prayer. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

2. All members of the Board, the City Manager, City Attorney and City Clerk were present.

Agenda item 3. Request and Petition of Citizens.

a. Mayor Bettis announced that the first petitioner was Audrey Fields who was to speak on community issues. She resides on College Way. She asked for those in the audience who were present to support the issue regarding Mr. James Henry Brown to stand. She explained that he recently celebrated his 102nd birthday. She said he may not be the oldest to live in either the city or Craven County, but she and his/her supporters felt his long life was very worthy of "a city proclamation to honor his longevity". She said she and her group were prepared to accept a denial of the proclamation until they found out that there had been a proclamation awarded to someone who trains dogs. "What makes that person more viable to receive a proclamation than someone who has lived to be 102 years old?", she asked. Mayor Bettis asked her who denied it? At that point and after Alderman Taylor prompted her to do so twice, Ms. Fields yielded the podium to Alderman Taylor. He stated that he gave the city clerk two proclamations: one to be approved & signed for Mr. Brown and one on behalf of Ms. Valentina Wilson (an anchor for WCTI-TV Ch12). Ms. Wilson's proclamation was to recognize her work in staging a teen fashion show, for which over 200 people attended, and providing mentoring to teens utilizing a fashion venue. Mr. Taylor said that he turned one in to the clerk 3 weeks prior to the event and turned the other in one week prior to the event. Mr. Taylor said he was informed on aFriday before the event that the Mayor denied the proclamation. Mayor Bettis dismissed Ald Taylor from the podium saying "no, that was your 4 minutes" to speak. Mayor Bettis addressed Ms. Fields, saying, "Audrey, in answer to your question, come see me after, no one ever asked me". Alderman Taylor continues to protest, the mayor gavels him and demands for him "to sit down"; which eventually happens as Alderman Taylor walks up to the dais still protesting that the lack of proclamations is not equal rights and justice and is an unfair and unjust act.

b. The second petitioner is Stevie Bennett of National Ave. She states that she up there often to ask questions and that she will continue to come up to ask questions until she receives the answers in a complete and timely manner. She asks numerous questions about the city's Branding Program. Some of the questions were: what were the criteria for deciding upon North Star; what were the various branding committees' meetings dates, were their recorded minutes, who was on those committees, who was in attendance at each of these meetings; how many meetings did Aldermen Bengel, Taylor & Bucher attend; what groups were in partnership with the City for branding, how much money have thesse groups contributed; was Craven County asked to contribute, if not - why not, or did they refuse? She also asked for the list of names and organizations that evaluated the any and all bid responders along with the names & addresses of the companies that submitted bids, a copy of the original Request for Proposal along with its issue date and its submission timeline. In finality, she asks "why are the taxpayers kept in the dark about this branding program? This information should be on the city website and the PEG TV channel. There is no transparency from this Board when it comes to the Branding Program." This is at least her third time to ask many of these same questions about the Branding Program. In other words, the city officials are not answering for whatever reason. Ms. Bennett continued by reminding the Board that she had also asked some of her Branding Program questions, in addition to others, at the June 11, 2013 Board meeting Petition of Citizens agenda item.

As of tonight she has not received answers to four of her questions. Diadre can only relay answers that she receives from the various departments, Ms. Bennett says. She asks how long will it take to get the answers? So far the responses I have received are less than satisfactory. She said, "the Petitions are only this administration's mere attempt to answer the citizens with as little information as possible. I want questions to be answered completely and in a timely fashion". Mayor Bettis asks her, "does that have all the bullet points on it that you wanted answered?" (referring to the paper she is reading from). She replies, "I already gave a copy to Diadre".

Agenda item 4. Adopt Resolution Calling for Public Hearing on Proposed Renaming of the 700 Block of A Street and B Street. "(Ward 1)  The western portion of A Street and B Street are completely separated from other sections of the respective streets by railroads. Because of this, the western portions of the streets are unreachable from National Avenue during emergencies. Safety concerns have been raised by emergency personnel as it relates to dispatching in a timely manner to these addresses. Therefore, it's proposed that the 700-blocks of both A Street and B Street be renamed to "West A Street" and "West B Street"." Approved by unanimous "yes" vote.

Agenda items 5 through 8 pertained to voting on ordinances to demolish various dwellings that did not meet minimum housing code subsequent to the appropriate legal procedures being executed. The addresses are 1230 Cedar Street (Ward 2), 1710 Wilmington Street (Ward 5), 202 Poplar Street (Ward 5), and 809 Lees Avenue (Ward 1). 

Agenda item 5. Adopt Ordinance for the Demolition of the Dwelling Located at 1230 Cedar Street. "(Ward 2) The owner of this property was first notified of minimum housing violations in September 2007. Since that notification, the property has changed ownership two additional times. A final hearing was held in April 2013, and the current owner was provided notice of such, but was not present at the hearing. No substantial progress has been made between 2007 and 2013 to bring the property into compliance, including no requests for permits since the recent hearing in April." 

Alderman Taylor asks Development Services Dept Dir Jeff Ruggieri if effort was made to get up with the owners via mail. Mr. Ruggieri answered "yes, we sent certified mails out. The City ensures we go above and beyond what's required for noticing. Alderman Bengel asks Mr. Ruggieri if that means that he did not have a good address to reach the owners". Mr. Ruggieri replied "yes". Approved by unanimous "yes" vote.

Agenda item 6. Adopt Ordinance for the Demolition of the Dwelling Located at 1710 Wilmington Street. "(Ward 5) The owner of this property was first notified of minimum housing violations in November 2007. Hearings between the City and property owner were held in July of 2007 and April 2013. In December 2011, the property was affected by fire which made rehabilitation unlikely. No progress has been made to bring the property into compliance." Alderman White asked Mr. Ruggieri is a chance was offered for someone to buy this dwelling at auction or to fix it?" Mr. Ruggieri replied, "No, the city is not the interface for negotiations with private property owners". Alderman White states, "It seems we're gettin' in the demo business, so where's the money coming from?" Mr. Ruggieri explains that there is a line item in the Board-approved budget. City Manager Epperson chimes in that we are trying to identify these properties so we can fulfill the directions from the Board to remove these dwellings that have become public nuisances. At about $10,000 per house, we have included up to $100,000 for removal of these below minimum-standards houses after staff has exhausted all means to get the owner to correct the situation. We have earmarked between $70,000 to $100,000 per year now from the Development Services Dept for demolitions per the Board's direction. Alderman White comments, "so we gonna tear 'em down? Why is it one house can remain for 24 or 25 years, then you look at one being demolished after only 2 to 3 years?" Mr. Epperson replies that whenever he sees any dwellings that he has questions about to be sure and contact him and he will see about it for him; but we are going through all means prior to issuing a demo order. He begins to voice the motion when Alderman Outlaw asks Mr. Ruggieri if the city is going to tear down the garage in back that goes with it, also? The answer was "yes". Approved by unanimous "yes" vote.

Agenda item 7. Adopt Ordinance for the Demolition of the Dwelling Located at 202 Poplar Street. "(Ward 5) The owner of this property was first notified of minimum housing violations in February 2010. A hearing was held between the City and owner in February 2011. Following this hearing, the owner filed for a building permit in March 2011 to make the necessary repairs to bring the property into compliance. That permit subsequently expired with minimal work completed. In July 2012, a second hearing was held to which the property owner was not present. To date, no progress has been made and no other permits have been applied for." City Manager Epperson states there have been recent conversations with the owners of this property, so he recommends tabling this item out of an overabundance of caution. Alderman Taylor says he heard that the owner did not know about this - he certainly doesn't want to demo it when an owner isn't aware of what is about to happen. They have further discussion as to who is the owner of record. (I am choosing not to mention his name). Once that issue is satisfied, the vote is for approval with a unanimous "yes".

Agenda Item 8. Adopt Ordinance for the Demolition of the Dwelling Located at 809 Lees Avenue. "(Ward 1) This property was flooded during Hurricane Irene and sustained damage in excess of 50% of the value of the property. The property will have to be elevated out of the floodplain to meet current flood regulations. A hearing was held on February 14, 2013 to which the property owner was not present. To date, no progress has been made and no permits have been applied for." Mr. Ruggieri reports that to adequately repair this dwelling to bring it up to code it would take greater than 50% of it's value and the city would then have the cost to elevate it as it is in a flood plain. Alderman White asks him, "Have you been inside the apartments...?" Alderman Bucher interjects that he looked at it with Pastor Strayhorn. He continues, you can tell that alot of drug activity has gone on, it's deplorable inside. Alderman Bengel says this property/dwelling has the same owner and issues of the property that they talked about earlier, and is in the same awful condition as the previous ones. Approved by unanimous "yes".

Agenda item 9. Adopt Resolution to Close Carmer Street for Mount Calvary Missionary Baptist Church Family Fun Day from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on July 20, 2013. "(Ward 2) Mount Calvary Missionary Baptist Church has requested Carmer Street be closed to vehicular traffic on July 20, 2013 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.for the church's Family Fun Day. This event will include games for the children and food, and the day's events will be held in the church parking lots." Alderman Taylor says the 102 year old Mr. Brown is a member of this church. Approved by unanimous "yes" vote. Agenda item

10. Minutes from the June 11, 2013 Board meeting were approved.

Agenda item 11. Appointment(s). Alderman White recommends Kim George be appointed to replace Lois Jamison's term on the Police Civil Service Board, which expired on July 1, 2013. .

12. There was no Attorney's Report.

13. City Manager's Report. Mr.... Epperson reminded the Board members that he sent them an email that announced that on July 15, 2013 @6 PM at the Convention Center, there will be an update given for the Craven County Economic Development Plan. They are close to completing that plan. He said that the contractor, RKG Associates, would be in attendance. He reminded the Board that next Tuesday, July 16, 2013, at 6PM, there is to be a Board work session. So far, he has 3 items on the agenda: (1) the ISO Fire insurance ratings; a rep from the Dept of Insurance will be present to talk about it; (2) a brief update on economic development pertaining to the US Hwy70, Township 7 corridor; and, (3) a dog & pony demo at the new Emergency Operations Center (EOC) at 521 Hwy 55 on July 16th at 6 PM. Mr. Epperson then stated there needed to be a motion for this meeting. 

Alderman Bengel asked if it could be filmed for City3TV, could someone bring a camera? Mr. Epperson said he would see if it could be broadcast live as that was one of the improvements that were made to the EOC. Approved by a unanimous "yes" vote.

14. Announcements.

a. Ald Outlaw: Alderman Outlaw asked to also add the city Branding Campaign to the agenda. He said that this is one of the issues that the Board has been in the most agreement on. He said that as long as he's lived here (since 1968) people have asked why the young people were not able to find employment in New Bern after high school and even college graduation. He felt the Branding program would address that problem. He further stated that the Branding Campaign gives New Bern and Craven County the opportunity to lead in new marketing and promotion opportunities for the entire area. He asked for the public to "bear with us until branding gets here and the final results are presented" (Reporter's comment: reminds me of Nancy Pelosi's remark that we have to pass Obamacare before we can know what's in it). He totally supports the idea. He says New Bern is being progressive like Greenville in doing the branding program. (Reporter's note: G'ville has a population of 86,000; a tax rate of 52-cents p/hundred); the city taxpayers are only out $60K because the G'Ville/Pitt Cty Convention & Visitors' Authority are contributing funds & occupancy taxes equaling $30K. I've interviewed 2 of their points of contact, the G'ville PIO & the CVA rep. New Bern taxpayers have already spent $92K and the city manager has asked for $75K more, but is not able to specifically state what for as of this date.).

b. Ald White: He adds to Ald Outlaw's remarks on branding New Bern. We need jobs for youth to come back to, he begins. "When youth graduate they don't come back...'cause they can't find a job. We need young people around to keep the city afloat and keep the young people here. Most people here that had children here, the children are not here." He says that he best be quiet, this is the most he's talked in a while. Mayor Bettis encourages him by saying, "...go ahead, fillibuster". So Ald White continues, "A town for old people is good - and I can say it 'cause I'm there. (much laughter in the room) These people runnin' around with the big heads, speakin' their mind (he then admits that he is known for speaking his opinion at times also) aren't helpin' the people you need to help, they're ruinin' (ruining) it for the youth. You got to have it in your heart to want the City to grow". (Reporter's comments: Did he just call Stevie Bennett in particular, and others in the community - such as myself, those who have written Letters to the Sun Journal Editor - who have called the Branding Campaign into question and/or requested public information an unattractive name of "big headed for speakin' their minds?" What?? Last time I looked, one of this country's founding principles was for the people to have the right to question their government, especially about what is being done with their taxes. It is my opinion, based solely on this remark, this man should not be holding and never be allowed to hold public office again!). Ald White's last statement was a request, "I want to see summer coop programs - a substantial amount - to come (to New Bern) to put money in their (the youth) pockets and get jobs for 'em. That'll cut down on crime, too".

c. Ald Kinsey: Addressing the branding campaign and economic development in the city in general, he says, "I like the direction we're heading in." He continues, talking about his appointment to the board for the metropollitan Planning Organization (MPO) and claims it will take New Bern far ahead and be an excellent tool to promote the area.

d. Ald Bucher - No announcements.

e. Ald Taylor: He continues his protests about the mayor not approving the proclamations for Mr. Brown and Valentina Wilson. He commended the committee for putting on the James City Fun Day last weekend. He thanked Dir of Parks & Recreation, Thurman Hardison, about a meeting in Pembroke. He wished a Happy Birthday to Mr. Brown and asked Mr. Brown's supporters in the audience to stand - again. He added an interesting tidbit of information regarding the two proclamations  claiming that the City Clerk tried to reach Mayor Bettis over 3 days to approve/sign the proclamations  but had no success in reaching him. He continued by saying that he finally received an answer of "no" on Friday, the 28th. He said, "If you make a decision on personal reasons it's an unjust". He also said, "Whoever sit as mayor next must represent the entire city. It's always right to do what's right". Mayor Bettis interrupts him, saying that's a tough act to follow. Alderman Taylor retorts that what he said was no act.

f. Ald Bengel: Says she approves and agrees with what Ald Outlaw said about the importance of the Branding Campaign. She claimed that we will never solve our problems without branding. People who don't know New Bern will now know it and come. When they come to New Bern, they see our flag with our wonderful bear and are enticed to stay here. The branding initiative will be good for New Bern, it will help expose our community to growth. We will not be able to do the things we want to do if we don't have growth. She says she has talked with the county (she is a recent reappointee to the county Tourism Development Authority) and other partners in on the branding, and states we're in charge and branding is the way to go.

Agenda item 15. City Attorney Davis says there is to be a Closed Session to discuss a business relocation issue and a dispensing of real property.

16. Meeting adjourned at 7:54pm.

Rhonda Taylor 
CCTA Watchdog Reporter for 
  NewBern Board of Aldermen
Ward 6, New Bern, NC

NEW BERN BOARD OF ALDERMEN

CCTA WATCHDOG REPORT FOR NEW BERN BOARD OF ALDERMEN

REGULAR MEETING OF 11 JUNE 2013

1. Meeting opened by Mayor Lee Wilson Bettis Jr. (yes, he returned after missing 4 BOA meetings. However, he did not say whether or not this was a one time appearance or that he will attend consistently until the end of his term.). Prayer assigned to Alderman Taylor who invited Rev. Andrew Cox to conduct the opening prayer. Pledge of Allegiance.

2. Roll Call. All members were present except for Ald White. He was excused to attend a graduation ceremony.

Agenda item 3. Request and Petition of Citizens.

For the first time since it's institution, the Mayor did not read the public admonition for speakers to limit their comments to 4 minutes, that the board members would not be responding to any public comments and that the board may/may not choose to ever give them a reply!!

a. Ms. Stevie Bennett of National Ave., asked for a list of the addresses of properties which have liens against them along with the amount of the lien; same for those which have violations assessed & their amounts. {Reporter's note: I would encourage the public to view the June 4th Planning & Zoning Board meeting on the City TV Ch 3 or on the city website @ http://www.newbern-nc.org for edification, noting the changes that Development Services Dept staff are making which will negatively affect income to the city}. She requested the sum total of spending toward the city's Branding of New Bern Campaign as well as an accounting of what the $75,000 will be spent for during its implementation phase. She gave a brief on how the city staff presented this proposal to the Board: that it was to be done in two phases, requiring $82,000. She has now discovered that in March 2013, the city diverted $10,000 from the General Administration budget of both the office supplies/materials line item and the postage line item ($5K from each), (per an email I sent to her that I received on June 4, 2013, in response to separate budget questions I posed first to the City Manager's office, then to Ald Outlaw, who forwarded it to the Accounting Dept on May 23, 2013). And now, she continued, the city asks for another $75,000 from the taxpayers. If this is granted, the total contribution toward the project is $167,000, which is $85,000 more than initially proposed to this board. She asked "how many on this board would have voted to approve this if they had know what the total costs for this effort would end up being?"

She requested the status of her previous request to have a bulletin board constructed and installed at the bottom of the steps of City Hall, to allow those citizens who could not climb those steps to be informed of public city meetings and other government body events. On the subject of the proposed capital project of constructing an elevator for City Hall, she asked why it was going to cost $60,000 for just the architectural design fee? Then she asked if it would be shelved just as the Preservation Plan was. She remarked that it had been 1 year & 8 months since that plan had been finalized yet nothing had been done to implement it. She then asked the board if this would be the same fate for the FY2014 budget line item request for the $75,000 for the implementation phase of the Branding Campaign. Ms. Bennett also asked what would be done with the current tax office space in the Dunn Bldg and it's $100,000 of budgeted monies since it is now to be under the Craven County government auspices. Her final comment was to say that she thought it ridiculous that the city's Land Use ordinance has not been rewritten/revised since 1992.

*Back-story of the City of New Bern Branding Campaign:

> First of all, from the June 26, 2012 BOA meeting minutes regarding the Branding Campaign that Ms. Bennett reminded the board of and asked the details of:

Agenda item "10.

Approve Budget Amendment for Branding Campaign.

Mike Epperson, City Manager presented a power point presentation to the board. In January 2011, the Board adopted strategic goals and objectives for the City of New Bern, one objective of which was "Market ourselves for smart development." This objective was refined during the Board retreat held earlier this year when the Board adopted the objective "Complete a branding campaign for the City of New Bern to assist with recruiting businesses, residents and tourism." Community branding is a process which, using valid research and data collection, helps a community discover its greatest assets and create a platform in order to be more competitive. A working group including representatives from the City, Tryon Palace, Swiss Bear, the Chamber of Commerce, Craven County Economic Development, the Convention Center and Coastal Carolina Regional Airport evaluated potential consulting partners and believes that North Star Destination Strategies is the best firm to help facilitate this branding process. North Star has proposed a two-phase process, and we are asking the Board to approve funding phase one at this time, at a cost of $48,000. Weyerhaeuser Land Development Company is interested in contributing $2,000 toward this effort and is willing to work with local businesses to potentially develop partners to fund phase two, at a cost of $34,000. Alderman Bucher stated the goal for branding should reflect "who we are and why would people relocate as well as bring businesses to New Bern". New Bern is not well known nationally, but only in the state of North Carolina. He has discovered this as he has traveled around the world.

Alderman Bengel made a motion to adopt the budget ordinance amendment for the branding campaign, seconded by Alderman White. Upon a roll call vote, the motion carried unanimously." "

> Per a Nov 21, 2012 interview of NB Public Information Officer Colleen Roberts by the NB Sun Journal, this is who was on the Branding Advisory Committee: "the city's aldermen and staff; representatives from the Convention and Visitors Center, Coastal Carolina Regional Airport, Tryon Palace, Swiss Bear Downtown Development Corp, NB Riverfront Convention Center, Committee of 100, and the NB Chamber of Commerce".

> From a Jan 13, 2013 NB Sun Journal article: {boldface throughout this section is reporter's emphasis} "A new phrase was coined to describe New Bern during the first phase of the city's branding process: "coastal river culture." Adam Winstead, project manager of the North Star Destination Strategies consulting firm out of Tennessee, explained the first phase of the branding concept to aldermen Tuesdaynight. The Board of Aldermen agreed in June to pay North Star $48,000 for the first phase of the study and $34,000 for the second "creative" phase. City Manager Mike Epperson said he wants a new brand that would attract visitors, residents and businesses to New Bern. Epperson, city management staff and Alderman Sabrina Bengel had a webinar conference with Winstead on Jan. 17 about the phase one study that lasted three hours because of the detail and amount of information in the plan. {Reporter's question: why only 1 alderman at this conference, who happens to be the one who motioned for this campaign to be funded?}. The first phase focused on the attributes of the city. The consulting firm did a survey of the community, receiving 283 responses, and a survey of Raleigh and Greenville, getting 223 responses, to find out more about the city, residents and businesses and what perception other cities have of New Bern.

The surveys showed the biggest selling point for New Bern is its history, Tryon Palace and the North Carolina History Center; also, its proximity to the coast, downtown New Bern and the diversity of the people, Winstead said. Other attributes include a strong manufacturing and industrial community; calm, relaxed atmosphere; and the potential for growth, he said. A "branding barometer" the consulting firm arrived at through its research showed a graph where people are very positive about living in New Bern and visiting the city. However, conducting business in New Bern was not as high on the meter, Winstead said. The city faces challenges attracting young professionals and providing jobs. {Reporter's comment: Ald White has mentioned this at many board meetings}. The perception of the community is that the city is "not very friendly" with high utilities and the lack of shopping opportunities, Winstead said. {Reporter's comment: this is news to us?}. The consulting firm recommended starting an economic development plan (which city staff is working on), adding tours of the city and a better night life. One of the best ways to attract business is by improving blighted areas in the city (which the city is also working on), he said. {Reporter's comment: since the city is already doing these things that NStar is recommending, and is aware of obstacles that NStar is pointing out, it appears we are paying $82,000 for confirmation that what we are doing is correct}.

Bengel said, "...the city has limited marketing funds and branding would help spread the word about what the city offers".

Alderman Johnnie Ray Kinsey said, "...he believes promoting the unique history of the city will give it the most for its money." "

>From a March 31, 2013 NB Sun Journal article: "New Bern is preparing to embark on the second phase of a plan to show off the city's attributes after partnering with four agencies to start the creative portion of a new community brand. Colleen Roberts, New Bern's public information officer, said the city has partnered with The Committee of 100, the New Bern Area Chamber of Commerce, Swiss Bear Downtown Development Corp. and the Tourism Development Authority to identify and establish a brand that will guide current and future marketing efforts for the greater New Bern area. {Reporter's question: what happened to participation by representatives from Coastal Carolina Regional Airport, NB Riverfront Convention Center, Tryon Palace and Convention and Visitor's Center? Are any of these organizations contributing any money; if so, how much? Any of those Ward 1 MSD funds going to be contributed?}

The city hired North Star Destination Strategies of Nashville, Tenn., last summer to undertake the branding initiative. Branding initiatives typically encompass two phases: research, and then creative development and implementation, Roberts said in a statement. {Reporter's question: If implementation is included, why must the taxpayer's fork over this newly requested $75,000 in the FY2013-2014 budget for what City Mgr Epperson states is for implementation?}. The contract for phase one of the community brand was $48,000. The phase two contract is $34,000. Phase two will encompass all of the artwork, imagination and creative design that will be used to implement the brand. The phase two contract has been signed and should begin later this month, Roberts said. According to North Star, phase two is most successful when the community participates. The five agencies included in the partnership will receive a standard set of logo options, color palette, stationery design, business cards, and PowerPoint templates, slogan development and recommendations for a community-wide portal, Roberts said. The partners also have the option to have North Star create custom items for their agencies, such as design of environmental/outdoor applications, signage, economic development packages, marketing materials, a new website, mobile applications, social media design, etc., Roberts said. {Reporter's questions: What becomes of the Wayfinding Sign program that the city & Swiss Bear had already begun working on, as reported in July 17, 2012 BOA Work Session minutes, which is funded in part by City of NB with in-kind services estimated to be $60,000? Did we just waste the taxpayers state contributions of $100,000, since this project was funded by the DOT grant; or the as yet to be published promised contribution of an unknown amount from the Tourism Development Authority? Is the city needing the $75K for an options package vice implementation? Why can't the city's Public Information/IT Dept handle much of the items in the options package, or even New Bern print and sign companies? Especially as we are currently paying at least $20K for an out-of-town Raleigh NC attorney to litigate the suit former alderman Raynor brought against the city, have paid $20K to 2 Raleigh lobbyists and a Washington DC firm of attorneys & economists $343K to litigate the intervention against the merger of Duke-Progress, and are currently paying the Nashville TN North Star Destination $92K? Is both our county and our town so incompetent, inept, incapable and/or unprofessional that we can't support our own? Perhaps not using our own resources is part of our problem?}. Mike Epperson, city manager, said community branding in New Bern is going to happen. "And we're excited to have the community's support in this important process," he said in a prepared statement. "This partnership represents a promise. A promise that in everything we do, every story we tell, every effort we make to increase residents, visitors, and businesses...we will speak in one community voice."

For phase two, a representative from each organization will participate as part of a design review team that will work closely with North Star. Phase two is expected to last approximately three months, and then the partner agencies will move forward with implementation of New Bern's new community brand, Roberts said.

Susan Moffat-Thomas, executive director of Swiss Bear, said the idea of branding started several years ago when representatives of different nonprofit agencies met monthly to discuss what they were doing and their future plans. The group also talked about branding and how it could be a positive asset for New Bern, she said. But the group did not have the financing to go after a branding campaign, Moffat-Thomas said. When the city hired Epperson as city manager, the idea was pursued again and presented to him and Alderman Sabrina Bengel, who both thought branding had positive attributes for the city.So the city decided to fund the first phase, Moffat-Thomas said. "It will provide an opportunity to market the city and county, in general, for new businesses and put our city on the map, attracting visitors," Thomas said. "Everything is so competitive now you have to work at marketing a city. I really hope this will do that. I'm looking forward to what the outcome will be." " {Reporter's comment: NStar has stated that this is NOT a marketing plan. The city is financing non-profit org's ideas as well as granting them tens of thousands of dollars of special appropriations taxpayer money on a recurring annual basis. Recall from the May 23rd budget workshop that the city will find the need to raise taxes 2 to 3 cents and increase utilities rates by 2015. The city presented a budget for approval with appx 175 items asking to be funded. Not only did it show no cuts to the public, but it added $10,000 to the advocacy/lobbying activities line item for Allies for Cherry Point's Tomorrow. ACT used to be under special appropriations until this budget}.

> Reporter's Note: The Tourism Development Authority (TDA) is a Craven County government agency. The Committee of 100 is a county organization concerned with fostering economic development within the entirety of Craven County. The only money contributed from Craven County for this Branding Campaign that I have been able to track down is a $2,500.00 contribution from the Committee of 100 that City Mgr Epperson announced during the BOA meeting of 15 Sep 2012. I don't know the funding source for this contribution. At this BOA meeting of June 11, Mayor Bettis reappointed Ward 1 Alderman/mayor pro tem Bengel to the CCTDA.

b. John Serumgard announced the Elks Lodge #764 will be conducting a Flag Day Ceremony at the Union Point Park gazeebo on Sat., June 15 @ 11am. He highlighted that the 2nd MAW Band, the Young Marines, and the Jr. NROTC color guard from New Bern High School would be performing.

c. Heather French spoke her opinions that the board/city should have ALL the facts and carefully consider whether the Pole Dancing Competition was appropriate to be held in our town and whether pole dance classes should be offered in the city's gymnastics or dance studios that cater to young people. She described the events at the competition, which was held at the Riverfront Convention Center and which she attended, as being sexually provacative. Ms. French also challenged the Sun Journal newspaper's portrayal of this event as family-friendly and called it misleading. She rhetorically asked if the pole dancing was to be considered as a family-friendly gymnastics event and athletic competition, why weren't the contestants wearing the traditional leotards and performing under full lighting vice the dim spots and suggestive rock music? She also observed dancers from two Havelock "gentlemen clubs" roaming the halls of the convention center and handing out cards to be redeemed for free lap dances. Her primary objection is that these type activities too easily influence young girls into pursuing a harmful lifestyle of working in strip clubs and sliding into drug addiction.

Agenda item 4. Conduct Public Hearing and Adopt Budget Ordinance for FY2013-14 Budget.

"The required public hearing for the proposed budget for FY2013-14 needs to be held, after which the Board is requested to adopt the annual budget ordinance." City Mgr Epperson said before the public hearing begins he would like to tell of 2 changes that had occurred to the Governing Board's budget category since Mayor Bettis had last seen the budget: the Allies for Cherry Point's Tomorrow (ACT) budget had been increased by $10K andOnly one person spoke, Edwin Vargas, who is a candidate for mayor; and, the consolidated line item of merging the volunteer firefighters with the city Fire Dept budget. Mayor Bettis then stopped Mr. Epperson because he has been made aware that there were 3 (vice 2) petitions of citizens requests and he sees Stevie Bennett's hand waving in the audience to draw his attention to Ms. Mary Randolph, who wishes to present her petition.

Ms. Randolph asks for somebody from City Hall and/or Public Works to come out to her house and notice that her property is sinking, she is still being flooded by a nearby canal and she had to pay to get her property cleaned up recently while her neighbors surround her with their unkempt properties. She will refuse to pay her taxes if the city does not help her with these issues.

Mr. Epperson continues and restates the two budget additions. Finance Dept Dir Fiaschetti steps up to the podium and says that some debt service with utilities has come down. One is a reduction in the MSD funded Streetscape project due to receiving a lower interest rate.

Mayor Bettis asks Mr. Fiaschetti to confirm that there is now 80 days cash on hand in all utilities funds. Mr. Fiaschetti clarifies that the Water Fund has 81 days, the Electric Fund has 50 days, and the Sewer Fund has 81 days. He continues by reminding that the goal was 90 days, but emphasizes that the current status is a significant improvement over the past.

The public hearing was begun at 7:30pm. The only citizen to speak was mayoral candidate Edwin Vargas, 230 Attmore Drive. He presented an 8-minute power-point on the last 5 years of the city's budgets. He showed that there had been significant increases between fiscal years and considered and presented data where capital expenditures were both included and excluded. He asked where and what are the significant budget cuts to this budget to preclude raising taxes for the citizens to see? He noted that both Havelock and Craven County had made cuts in their budgets, with the county reducing taxes one-quarter cent, prompting him to ask the board, "where have the cuts been made for the city of New Bern budget" or taxes reduced? He recommended the city task the departments to present their General Fund equipment list by prioritizing these items as "need to have, must have, and like to have". He also said the city should avoid funding large expenditure items such as the Emergency Ops Center - Ald Bengel & Outlaw voted no to this expenditure. Also, the Duke-Progress merger intervention litigation, which was appx $363, and for which the citizens have received no board briefing as to what they can look forward to in the way of lower electric bills or what other benefits were gained for this large expenditure which was funded via more than 20 closed sessions) during the budget year. Another suggestion from him was to cut special appropriations amounts by 10%. He believes the data shows that if his recommendations were acted upon and these savings made in the current FY2013 budget, fees would have been reduced or eliminated beginning

July 1, 2013 for leaf & limb, garbage, city pool daily use, convenience fees for on-line payment services, cemetary charges for weekends & holidays, or services from the Development Services Dept.

After the closing of the public hearing, Ald Bucher moved to adopt the budget but received no second. After a long pause, Mayor Bettis asked "can I second stuff?" City Atty Davis said no. Ald Bengel made an alternate motion to table the vote until the next regularly scheduled meeting. Her motion received no second either. Ald Outlaw said he would like to enter a substitute motion to schedule another budget workshop before the next meeting, but that he was not indicating that he disapproved of the entire budget. Ald Bengel said she had additional questions on a couple things, which is why she wanted to table the vote until next week. Mayor Bettis asked Mr. Davis for direction; he replies there are not motions on the floor, prompting Mayor Bettis to exclaim "Hey, let's have a workshop!" He asked Ald Outlaw if he has a list of concerns? It would be a great idea if the board members who have questions/concerns to write them down so staff has time to prepare their responses. Ald Bengel then motions for a special called meeting to conduct a budget workshop next Tuesday night at 6 pm. Ald Outlaw seconded. Then Ald Bucher says, "Some of us have other things to do in our lives. Next Tuesday at 6:30pm is a National Night Out meeting at the Police substation in the Mall that I was planning on attending". Ald Bengel asks if Monday the 17th is preferrable? Mr. Davis states the board must give 10 days notice to conduct another budget hearing, which is required prior to adoption of a budget. Changes to the staff would need to be given the 14th. Now, no one is available on Wednesday nights except Mayor Bettis and Mr. Epperson says he will be out of town on Thursday and Friday. There were a couple of alternatives thrown out. Mr. Epperson suggested the board discuss their concerns tonight so they don't "get bogged down with seven different ideas at the next meeting" for this budget. The board decided to discuss their concerns, which amounted to being over continued using of the utility enterprise funds (Outlaw) and the merging of the volunteer firefighters with the city Fire Dept (Bengel & Outlaw).

Ald Outlaw said he had recently talked with the NC Dept of Insurance about the threat of raising fire insurance rates as a result of the city's number of fire stations and response times. His main concern is about water, sewer, and electric funds and especially water and sewer funds and all the transfers to the General Fund. He claims that with a new fire station or stations, those water and sewer rates could go higher. His second concern is with mutual aid calls out of Thurman Rd, how much equipment do we really need? If the money is not there already, the city will have to raid the water and sewer funds. The volunteer firefighters always save the city money; therefore, we would be remiss in not discussing as to how the volunteers are treated regarding their benefits and the possibility of terminating them by merging them with the city's Fire Dept. He would prefer to discuss a plan B regarding building any new fire stations and sticking the new board with a 2 to 3-cent tax increase.

Mayor Bettis asks, "So you want an inspector from the Insurance Bureau" at this workshop? Ald Outlaw replies that he can answer most of the questions, based on his conversations with that department. Ald Bengel has concerns about the merging of the budgets of the volunteers with the city Fire Dept. She said she did not necessarily need a workshop but she did need questions answered. Mr. Epperson calls Fire Chief Bobby Aster to the podium and they have a lengthy discussion about the budgets merging. Afterward, Ald Bengel says her second concern is about Finance Dir Fiaschetti's presentation tonight on utilities budgets changes and savings. She needs time to digest that information and understand the debt and funds transfers - that she doesn't necessarily need a workshop now. Mayor Bettis asks each board member if they have additional questions or are ready to vote. Ald Taylor is ready to vote. Ald Bucher says, "I made the motion. We spent many hours during May in budget workshops. All of us had an opportunity to digest and understand. I don't need a another workshop". Ald Kinsey says Ald Outlaw covered the things he had in mind. He does want to make sure that the info and numbers are accurate from Epperson and Fiaschetti. Ald Outlaw says he's concerned about the timetable concerning the capital improvements projects. Mr. Epperson reminds him that they talked about having a July workshop focusing on those.

After Ald Outlaw and Ald Bengel begin discussing their concerns over the volunteers firefighters' benefits and funds, Chief Aster is called up again to discuss the various funds. After some time on this, Ald Bengel motions to rescind her motion for a special called meeting on the budget. At 8:15pm, Ald Bucher motions to adopt the budget with Ald Kinsey seconding. During discussion, Ald Outlaw interjects a substitute motion to discuss the budget and for approval to be at the next meeting in June. Ald Bengel says she wants to spend some time with Keith (Fiaschetti) over the next day or 2 talking over her concerns. The vote on Ald Bucher's motion is Bengel, Taylor & Outlaw voting "No", Bucher, Bettis and Kinsey "Yes". So there is a tie, motion is defeated. Ald Outlaw motions to discuss and approve the budget at the June 25 meeting, Ald Bengel seconds. Voice vote passes it.

Agenda item 5. Adopt Ordinance to Amend Grant Project and Close Out Brownsfield Assessment and Cleanup Grant.

"A special revenue project fund was established for the Brownfields Assessment and Cleanup Grant, which was funded entirely with a $400,000 grant from the US Environmental Protection Agency. The City has fulfilled its obligation, all accounting is complete, and the project has been closed by the grantor. The final cost of the project was $38,904.16 less than was originally anticipated. The amendment will close the project fund and adjust the budgets to the final activity totals." Passed by unanimous vote.

Agenda item 6. Adopt FY2012-13 Budget Ordinance Amendment for General, Water, Sewer and Electric Funds.

"The City's practice of the Utility Funds reimbursing the General Fund for administrative expenses and shared service costs is a normal course of business with municipalities and is an accepted practice. However, the City does not use an objective measurement process to determine that these costs are reasonably allocable to the Utility Funds. Therefore, to ensure the material correctness of individual funds, the City is required to develop a documented cost-allocation plan for implementation in the current fiscal year budget and future budgets. This new plan has been incorporated into the FY2013-14 recommended budget. To incorporate it in the current year's budget for FY2012-13, budget amendments are required as reflected on the proposed budget amendment."

Ald Outlaw directs his questions/comments to Mr. Fiaschetti: in other words you're turning right around and increasing transfers, doing some creative accounting and expensing some things to the water and sewer funds that really shouldn't be in order to not touch the electric fund, and for which you should not be doing in the first place? Now you've got a decrease of $375K in the water fund, so you're taking out $873K out of the sewer fund and increasing the General Fund? Mr. Fiaschetti responds that the electric system has a cap of 3%...{Reporter's comment: They go back and forth like this about 3 times. Mr. Fiaschetti would never give Ald Outlaw the simple "yes" or "no" answer, preferring instead to repeat his justification behind the data}. Ald Outlaw cuts him short, saying you're taking $4.2 million more out of water and sewer so you won't use electric. Mr. Epperson interjects by explaining that the city was required to come up with an objective formula for cost allocation. He continues, "none of us who were not involved with the previous methodology didn't have a problem understanding this. We used input and received a blessing from staff, Local Government Commission, local auditors. If we didn't fix this we knew we were promised problems next year with our auditors. We did this under a constrained timeframe. I'm not sure that it's sustainable over time. If the Board doesn't want this, give staff direction on what you want us to do."

Increased transfers to the general fund from the water and sewer divisions will be $2,259,957, leaving operating costs at $473,783 for water and $537,486 for sewer.

Ald Outlaw states he wants the fund balance to stay stable. He then asked, "if we had a 1 1/2% rate increase, how long can you offset a rate increase using rate stabilization?" Ald Bucher asks, "why weren't these questions asked in the workshops?" {Reporter's comment: my response would be because Mayor Pro Tem Bengel ran a tight agenda and allotted only 3 hours for each workshop. As it was, the board only got through half of the items on the first workshop agenda. This left the second workshop needing to cover half of the previous meeting's line items and all of the utilities items, plus summation and decision rendering. The management of the utilities funds have created much concern with the public. It is not known if the various departments had already culled their wish lists before final presentation to the board. If they had not - perhaps if they had been - this would have saved considerable time. It is never easy for a local politician to present his/her constituents with a tax increase or utility increase and is usually avoided or at least subtantially justified at all costs - which is what I feel is happening in this meeting and noting that this is an election year}. Mayor Bettis suggests they put Ald Outlaw's questions on the July workshop agenda as they were good questions.

Agenda item 7. Adopt FY2012-13 Budget Ordinance Amendment for Sewer Fund.

"Lift station #33 is in need of repair due years of deterioration from corrosion resulting from hydrogen sulfide gases that have compromised the structural integrity. In addition to rehabilitating the structure, mechanical equipment will be replaced and larger pumps will be put in service to increase the capacity. A transfer from the sewer capital reserve fund in the amount of $100,000 is necessary to facilitate the repair and equipment replacement. After this transfer, approximately $379,000 will remain in reserves." Passed by unanimous vote.

Agenda item 8. Adopt FY2012-13 Budget Ordinance Amendment for Grants Fund.

"The FY2012-13 budget for the Fire Department's NC Urban Search and Rescue Task Force Grant was based on estimated spending and revenue projections for the previous fiscal year. It is necessary to amend the budget to reduce revenue in the amount of $10,000 based on actual receipts in FY2011-12.

The FY2012-13 budget for the Police Department's 2009 ERIC Fusion Grant and 2011 Bullet Proof Vest Grant were also based on estimated spending projections from the previous fiscal year. It is necessary to amend the budget to reduce appropriations and revenue for the ERIC Fusion Grant in the amount of $42,000, and reduce appropriations for the Bullet Proof Vest Grant by $4,262 and reduce revenue by $4,009.

Additionally, the Police Department received $9,900 from the 2012 Bullet Proof Vest Grant, which required a 50% match. The match was included in the Police Department's FY2012-13 budget. A budget amendment is necessary to acknowledge the grant funds received." Passed by unanimous vote.

**Agenda item 9. Adopt Resolution to Establish the Electric Rate Stabilization Fund.

"The NC Eastern Municipal Power Agency (NCEMPA) is predicting an increase in power supply costs to its members beginning in January 2015. In consideration of this anticipated increase, there is a need to establish an Electric Rate Stabilization Fund to assist with mitigating future increases as excess funds are available. This fund would be funded through operating transfers from the Electric system as excess funds are available. Excess funds are defined as those that exceed the 90 days cash on hand level" (Reporter's note: Finance Dir Fiaschetti stated previously in this meeting that there are 50 days at this date}. Passed by unanimous vote.

Agenda item 10. Adopt Resolution Accepting 2012 CDBG Talent Enhancement Capacity Building Grant Program and Authorizing the Mayor to Sign Documents Associated with the Grant.

"The City has been selected to receive a 2012 CDBG Talent Enhancement Capacity Building Grant in the amount of $50,000. The grant will assist local governments and nonprofits in partnership with local governments to develop appropriate and competitive CDBG grants, administer the grants, etc. The City applied for the grant in partnership with NRCDC, and the funds will be used to provide the NRCDC staff with training needed to develop and administer future CDBG grants." Ald Taylor asks, "is this to be at ECU and is there several sessions or is it ongoing, because this is alot of money?" A city staff person says there will be 2 people from the Neuse River Community Development Council attending at ECU once per month during August 2013 through June 2014. Passed by unanimous vote.

Agenda item 11. Adopt Ordinance to Establish a CDBG Talent Enhancement Capacity Building Grant Project Fund.

"As discussed in the previous item, the City has been chosen to receive a 2012 CDBG Talent Enhancement Capacity Building Grant in the amount of $50,000 with no match required. This ordinance will establish the project fund." Passed by unanimous vote.

Agenda item 12. Adopt Ordinance Amendments to the Union Station Train Depot Restoration Project.

"(Ward 1) Restoration of the Union Station Train Depot will not be completed byJune 30, 2013, which is the end of the grant period. All parties have agreed to an extension. The Ordinance amendment will extend the project until it is finished and will also increase appropriations in the amount of $11,824 to account for architectural services to be funded with revenue received from the NC Railroad Company." Passed by unanimous vote.

Agenda item 13. Adopt Resolution Granting Easement to MCNC.

"(Ward 3) On July 26, 2011, the Board adopted a Resolution to permit MCNC to locate a portion of new fiber optic cable through Lawson Creek Park so it may bore under and across the Trent River. As part of the agreement with MCNC, the City agreed to grant a nonexclusive easement for the benefit of MCNC. The fiber has now been laid, and an ordinance needs to be adopted to grant the easement." Passed by unanimous vote.

Agenda item 14. Adopt Resolution to Sell Property Owned Jointly by the City of New Bern and Craven County Located at 613 Ruth Avenue.

"(Ward 5) The City of New Bern and Craven County have received an offer from Carmen G. Burgos in the amount of $2,000 to purchase the property identified as 613 Ruth Avenue. The offer was advertised as required by statute and no upset bids were received. The Resolution accepts the offer and approves the sale of the property." Ald Bengel asks to confirm that there is just land and no house is involved and is told she is correct. Prior to making this motion, Ward 2 Alderman Victor Taylor asked whether Ward 5 Alderman Bernard White had been notified of this item and if he agreed to this resolution. Mayor Bettis answered that Mr. White had given him a "yes" answer when he talked with him this morning (June 11, 2013). (This reporter wonders if Mayor Bettis informed Ald White or any other alderman that he would be at tonight's meeting. Ald Outlaw has told me that he was not aware nor informed that Mayor Bettis would be at tonight's meeting.) Passed by unanimous vote.

Agenda item 15. Adopt Resolution Closing Streets at Union Point Park on June 15, 2013 from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. for Elks Flag Day Ceremony.

"(Ward 1) A Flag Day Ceremony will be held in Union Point Park on June 15, 2013, and it is requested streets in the park are closed to vehicular traffic from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. on that date." Passed by unanimous vote.

Agenda item 16. Approve Minutes.

Minutes from the May 14, 2013 Board Meeting, May 21, 2013 Budget Work Session and May 23, 2013 Budget Work session are attached for review and were approved.

Agenda item 17. Appointment(s).

The following appointments to the Historic Preservation Commission were made:

a) The Mayor reappointed David Griffith.
b) Alderman Bengel is requested to nominate a new appointment to fill Peter Adolph's seat, which ended on May 15, 2013; he will be allowed to serve until a new appointment is made.
c) Alderman Bucher is requested to nominate a new appointment to fill Chairman Rich Frye's seat which ended on May 15, 2013;
d) Alderman Outlaw is requested to nominate a new appointment to fill the seat opened by Janet Giordano's resignation;
Mayor Bettis reappointed Alderman Bengel to the Craven County Tourism Development Authority.

Agenda item 20. Announcements.

a) Mayor Bettis calls Jordan Hughes, City Engineer, up to the podium to tell of the successes of the Stormwater Management Plan and the Jack Smith Creek project during T.S. Andrea. Ald Bengel asked Mr. Hughes if the Biddle St pond worked out? Mr. Hughes answered "yes". Ald Bucher asked for the start date for the Jack Smith Creek project. Mr. Hughes replied, it probably began with the old Public Works Director previous to me and coordinating with NC State Univ in 2003/2004. Ald Kinsey asked how many gallons of stormwater are pumped per minute. Mr. Hughes said appx 21,000 gallons or akin to a filled residential swimming pool going through every minute.

b) Ald Outlaw announced that Trent Road was being resurfaced and would be done by this Thursday (June 13).

c) Ald Bucher reminded the folks about this Saturday's Flag Day ceremony (June 15).

d) Ald Kinsey reminded of the National Night Out meeting on Tuesday evening (June 18).

e) Ald Taylor wished a Happy Birthday to Mr. James Brown who will be 102 years young and still drives! (Mayor Bettis remarked "that is 3 years younger than Mr. Bucher!" and the room erupted in laughter). He congratulated all the area seniors on completing their education. He reminded that Wed., June 12th is the 50th anniversary of Medgar Evers' death. He concluded by twice repeating the statement: "It is always right to do the right thing".

f) Ald Bengel thanked all the staff for their hard work and diligence on the FY2013/14 budget. She explained that the board members' many questions were due to the fact that "they had to live with it in the public eye". She congratulated the graduating class of 2013 and encouraged them to stay safe and stay engaged, especially over the summer. She described her recent honor to attend the ceremony and present the Purple Heart for Vonzaro Gross (sp?) service in Afghanistan.

g) Mayor Bettis declared that "the recession was over and the real estate market was coming back" as he had heard such from several area realtors. He pronounced that "the budget and the enterprise funds have never been better, we've never had a stronger city" government, fiscally speaking. He directed that "we should focus on how great a town this is, put a good face on what's going on with the city, and encourage people to remember that this is a paradise".

Meeting adjourned at 9:07pm.

Rhonda Taylor
CCTA Watchdog for NB Bd of Aldermen
New Bern