TOWN OF EASTON, MARYLAND
February 2, 2004
Councilmember Maureen Scott-Taylor Councilmember Moonyene Jackson-Amis
Also in attendance were Assistant Town Attorney Ms. Sharon Van Emburgh, Chief of Police George Harvey, Town Engineer Mr. Tim Glass, Assistant Town Engineer Mr. Joe Gruber, Town Planner Mr. Tom Hamilton, Economic Development Coordinator Mr. Al Bond and Town Clerk Mr. Robert Karge.
At 7:00 p.m., the President of the Council called the meeting to order with Mr. Wendowski leading the audience in prayer and Pledge of Allegiance.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF JANUARY 20 AND JANUARY 26, 2004 MEETINGS
Upon motion by Mr. Wendowski, seconded by Mr. Jensen, the minutes were approved four to nothing.
ITEMS BY MAYOR WILLEY
Mayor Willey stated that he will be out of Town attending the Mayor’s Convention in Annapolis February 5 through February 7. He asked that any issues be addressed to President Ford.
Mayor Willey reported that Mrs. Scott-Taylor and Mr. Bond and he were in Annapolis meeting with MML in reference to trying to obtain the 2005 Fall Legislative Conference for Easton. He stated that all reports were that the presentation was great although Hagerstown was awarded the conference for 2005. Mayor Willey stated that MML now has a regulation that they would like to award towns that have facilities large enough to accommodate the entire conference in one site. He stated that severely limits municipalities in Maryland down to 12 with facilities that large.
Mayor Willey discussed the appointments to the RTC Task Force. Mayor Willey asked that Mr. Bill Stagg be added to the list of appointees. Mayor Willey asked for favorable consideration from the Council for these appointments.
Ms. Jackson-Amis asked if there were more than two appointees from any Ward. Mayor Willey stated that Ward I and Ward II are heavy. Mayor Willey stated that the names were submitted from Council members. Ms. Jackson-Amis stated that she would like to agree to the names submitted subject to there being some kind of modification with respect to the Wards, two from each Ward.
Mr. Ford stated that he would like to move forward with these names and if there is a Ward underrepresented, rectify that.
Mr. Wendowski stated that you can always add to this committee. He stated that he would like to move on this list and add if there are any additions.
Mr. Wendowski made a motion to approve the appointees as submitted with the provision that members can be added if necessary, seconded by Mrs. Scott-Taylor and carried 4 to 1 with Ms. Jackson-Amis voting no.
Discussion occurred on the scope of work to be done by the Park Task Force as well as the time commitment required.
Ms. Jackson-Amis asked that any relevant information be forwarded to her regarding the Task Force and the meetings.
Mr. Ford asked if Mr. Tischler had been engaged. Mayor Willey stated that an e-mail had been directed to Mr. Tischler asking for a contract or engagement letter to get that started.
EASTON FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORT
Mr. Lyle Fuller was present with the Fire Department’s monthly report. He stated that there was one minor injury at the Cherry’s fire.
ITEMS FROM CHIEF OF POLICE
Chief Harvey stated that he had a request for the public regarding the ice. He asked the motorists to slow down while traveling the roads as there have been numerous reports of vehicles side swiped due to the snow and ice on the roadway.
ITEMS FROM THE TOWN ENGINEER
The Town Engineer, Mr. Glass advised that the Town of Easton offices will be closed in observance of Presidents’ Day with a pushed back a day garbage schedule resuming normal schedule on Thursday.
Mr. Glass discussed the million gallon storage tank project. He stated that this project is slated for completion in mid December.
Mr. Glass discussed construction work on Commerce Drive where a water main is being installed.
Mr. Glass stated that the West Kennedy Street water/sewer extension project bids will be opened Thursday at 2:00 p.m.
Mr. Glass discussed snow removal on the rails-to-trails and the salt procedure for streets.
Mr. Ford discussed the Route 50 crossover at High Street. He discussed his concerns with impending development in that area with the proposed Hampton Inn. He asked the Town Engineer to make sure State Highway Administration is aware of these concerns.
Chief Harvey discussed traffic information available.
Ms. Jackson-Amis discussed storm water management concern at 11 E. Dover Street. She stated that it is her understanding that the pipes are so old and nothing could be done in the near future that could keep the flooding from that property. She asked what could be done about the situation.
The Town Engineer discussed the situation. He stated that there was no storm water management in place when those houses were built so the Town has inherited a problem. Mr. Glass stated that they are looking at taking a piece of property in the Doverbrook community that is available space wise and installing a storm water facility upstream of those properties so the water coming down could be first intercepted by this pond. He stated that this is a short term remedy. He discussed long term solutions. Mr. Glass stated that he is hopeful this will be a spring project.
ITEMS FROM THE TOWN PLANNER
The Town Planner, Mr. Hamilton stated that the Planning Commission meets February 19 at 1:00 p.m. He stated the six items on their agenda are:
ITEMS FROM TOWN ATTORNEY
The Assistant Town Attorney, Mrs. Sharon Van Emburgh, updated on the West Glenwood annexation. She stated that the next phase is a survey of the area to start preparing the annexation paperwork.
In regards to the West Glenwood annexation, the Town Engineer suggested sending a letter to the County Council requesting that they follow the pattern that took place with the West Kennedy Street annexation. He stated that they would handle the boundary survey, the annexation survey and the preparation of those documents to be helpful to the town. Mr. Glass suggested a letter to them requesting their assistance for the annexation portion of this project.
The Assistant Town Attorney stated that she will work with the Mayor to draft a letter.
Ms. Jackson-Amis asked if the memo dated 1/26/04 would be discussed tonight in regards to the Housing Trust Fund.
The President of the Council stated that it was in the packet for informational purposes.
ITEMS BY THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR
Mr. Bond requested an Executive Session to discuss real estate.
PUBLIC HEARING FOR PATRIOT SQUARE PUD SUBDIVISION ON THE APPLICATION FOR AN AMENDMENT TO THE PUD CHANGING THE ARCHITECTURE AND REVISING THE PARKING AND SIDEWALK LAYOUT TO ACCOMMODATE NEW UNITS. THE PROJECT IS LOCATED AT THE END OF MEADOW DRIVE.
At 7:35 p.m., the President of the Council opened the public hearing for Patriot Square PUD subdivision on the application for an amendment to the PUD.
The Town Planner, Mr. Hamilton discussed the application and the history. He stated that it is located at the end of Meadow Drive next to Quail Meadows Apartments adjacent to the Parkway. He stated that the infrastructure for the project is in. Mr. Hamilton stated that this project is for 92 town homes and 41 single family houses for a total of 133 housing units. Mr. Hamilton stated that it was started by BH Development Company in 2000. He stated that after the Planning Commission reviewed the project and sent a recommendation, the Town Council approved it in February 2001. In August 2002, the Council approved an amendment to that project being the change of architecture after the sale of the project to Lenfest. Mr. Hamilton stated that the Council approved the new architecture. He stated that now McDaniel Homes has purchased the project from Lenfest and would like an amendment to the PUD to allow their architecture. Mr. Hamilton stated that due to the change in architecture, there is a slight site plan change. He stated that the new structures now have a first floor garage and therefore, the parking situation no longer applies. Mr. Hamilton stated that the Planning Commission reviewed this and approved the application for architectural changes and supported allowing the Town Engineer and the Town Planner work with the applicant to deal with the parking and small sidewalk situation.
(Chief Harvey departed at 7:40 p.m.)
Mr. Hamilton stated that when this application was originally approved, it was with certain conditions. Mr. Hamilton stated that there were seven conditions of approval that the Council put in the ordinance approving the original PUD.
1) That they construct a hiker/biker trail in the power line right of way.
2) That the residential structural shall be constructed in accordance with the elevation submitted to the Council.
3) The architect shall prepare a landscaping plan for the project incorporating existing trees and hedge rows to extend possible buffer for the project on Route 33.
4) The applicant shall record restrictions and covenants relating to prohibiting or discouraging rental housing.
5) Covenants shall be approved by the Town Attorney prior to recordation.
6) The applicant shall pay for a crosswalk and street crossing improvements for crossing between Meadow Drive and Moton Park.
7) Prepare and record subdivision covenants which will provide a Home Owner’s Association to maintain the common areas.
Mr. Derrick McDaniels, President of McDaniels’ Homes, McDaniels Development Company was present on behalf of the applicant.
Mr. McDaniels discussed the company. He stated that it is nine years old primarily building on the western shore in urban and suburban communities. Mr. McDaniels displayed slides of existing communities they have developed.
Mr. McDaniels discussed traditional neighborhoods. He stated that these neighborhoods force residents to walk the streets, be involved in the neighborhood and speak to their neighbors. He discussed sprawl and stated that it eats a large portion of the land and is not quite as livable as it should be. Mr. McDaniels stated that historic communities such as Easton work. He discussed constructing streets narrow enough to control speed and traffic. He stated that parking should be planned for but not taking away from the front elevation of the home. He discussed safety and the reduction of crime in traditional neighborhoods.
Mr. McDaniels discussed Patriot Square. He stated that they noticed the community. They thought it was a good model of a traditional neighborhood and then they upgraded the elevations. He stated that it is also a good location for town homes with garages.
Mr. Jensen stated that he appreciates the mix of people with the neo traditional developments and the different people with varied incomes.
Mr. McDaniels discussed reviewing the ordinance and the covenants.
Mr. McDaniels discussed affordable housing issues. He discussed impact fees and integrating into the Talbot County school system. Mr. McDaniels stated that every time they have gone into a community, they have made some kind of contribution with the proceeds of every house built, to upgrade that particular high school, elementary or middle school.
Mr. Chris Williams, McDaniels Homes, stated that he has spoken with the Vice Principal at Easton High School regarding interfacing with the schools to provide an entrepreneurial leadership program to assist in any way they can with some of the things they are doing at the school. He stated that they have a scheduled meeting next week.
Ms. Jackson-Amis stated that she is very impressed with the product the developer has as well as innovation on how they can participate in this community and giving some value. Ms. Jackson-Amis asked if the developer is suggesting these proposals in addition to the affordable housing or in lieu of some housing on the site which may be considered affordable.
Mr. Ford stated that he would be interested in some specificity. He discussed the original approval to this plan. Mr. Ford stated that the original plan had town homes less than $100,000 with Lenfest in the $120,000 range which he stated he considers in the affordable range. He stated that he is interested in hearing the price range of the proposed homes by McDaniels Homes.
Ms. Lynn Hagen stated that she works with McDaniels Homes and owns Builder’s Advantage which is a new home sales and marketing company. She stated that they introduce them to the property and most importantly, the market study setting up the community which determines pricing and financing and product as well as the position in the area, etc. Ms. Hagen stated that they will be offering several options for financing. She stated that the buyer profile from the town homes they are expecting will be a mix of empty nesters and people coming over the bridge as well as local people. Ms. Hagen stated that they will be starting in the 150’s. She discussed the prospective buyer market. She stated that the single family homes will start in the 190’s. She stated that their most popular product is the end unit town homes and they suspect that the buyer will primarily be the empty nester.
(The Town Attorney, Mr. Kehoe arrived at 8:32 p.m.)
(The Economic Development Coordinator Mr. Bond and the Town Attorney departed at 8:35 p.m.)
Ms. Jackson-Amis stated that she is very concerned about affordable housing and asked how they plan to address the issue.
Ms. Hagen stated that they do not plan to market the community as an affordable housing community. She stated that they will be selling a traditional neighborhood as Derek described. Ms. Hagen stated that with the financing offered, no cash is required to move in, the starting price will be in the $150’s. She discussed marketing strategies and payment options.
Mr. Jensen stated that the Council is trying to come up with an exact policy regarding affordable housing. He asked if the developer would consider a lower price for 10% of the town homes.
Mr. Derrick McDaniel stated that it would be very difficult to step in those shoes when the property was bought four years ago. Mr. McDaniel stated that they did not plan to go into this project to take a financial loss however, they intend to honor the three home buyers they have which will cost them approximately $150,000. Mr. McDaniel stated that this site has been sitting still for two months at about $66,000 a month. He stated that they are financially obligated to their investors and lenders based upon what was assumed when they purchased the property.
Mr. Jensen stated that he understands but this is a new PUD and they have an obligation to the citizens to make sure they are not driving buyers out of town.
Mr. McDaniel discussed the differences in the market houses comparing Patriot Square houses and Elm Street houses.
Mr. Jensen stated that Easton is getting too expensive.
Mrs. Scott-Taylor asked why the same town home product is offered in Cambridge for $120,000 to $140,000. Mrs. Scott-Taylor stated that the same unit will be offered in Easton for $150,000 and asked if this was due to the fact that the market will bear this price.
Ms. Hagen stated that the difference is about $30,000 to $40,000 between here and Cambridge for the same product due to the land value and Easton buyers. Income for prospective buyers was discussed. Ms. Hagen stated that a combined income of $65,000 would qualify.
Ms. Jackson-Amis asked if the developer would consider options regarding affordable housing offered to other developers such as a contribution to the Housing Trust Fund.
Mr. McDaniel stated that they would be amenable and consider some type of contribution and balance that between their own constraints.
Ms. Lauren Dianich, town resident since 1990, appreciates the Town’s strong interest in affordable housing and the financing plans proposed by the developer. She stated that she cannot understand why people feel that $700 to $800 a month is not affordable. She discussed her history of getting by on $18,000 a year and affording $500 a month rent 14 years ago. Ms. Dianich stated that this developer is giving a very good opportunity to a lot of young and older people on a limited income. She suggested the Town develop legislation regarding affordable housing for developers to follow rules. Ms. Dianich stated that she has been researching for six months how to build a decent house for under $150,000 and it is almost impossible. Ms. Dianich asked what the impact tax is in Easton per unit for a house.
Mr. Wendowski stated that the Town of Easton is still working on that.
Mr. Jensen stated that the Town is engaging a consultant to put together impact fees.
Mr. Ford stated that Easton does charge impact fees. He explained that developers pay infrastructure costs and capital charges. Mr. Ford discussed the need for additional charges.
Ms. Dianich stated that she has seen great improvements in the drawings and elevations versus the Lenmark product originally submitted.
Mr. Tom Alspach, present on behalf of Talbot Preservation Alliance, stated that when this project was proposed TPA did not oppose it for two principal reasons. He stated that it is a fine example of infill development and it was held out as a project that would create home ownership opportunities for the working individuals in the Town of Easton. Mr. Alspach stated that the concern is that what is being proposed tonight is not just a change in architecture but a change in the total nature of the project. He addressed the notion that new developers have been blind sighted that there was no indication in the record that this was supposed to be a project geared toward home ownership opportunities for working families. Mr. Alspach stated that the original elevation drawings are part of the project as initially conceived. He stated that this project as initially approved, was intended to serve a particular market. Mr. Alspach stated that the pricing for the project as quoted this evening is very vague. Mr. Alspach stated that the Council is considering approving a project that will not address the needs of the potential buyers that the project was initially intended to address. He suggested nailing the price range down and including it in the ordinance. He asked the council to think about the substantive change in this project that this architectural amendment will embody.
Mr. Wendowski asked if the commercial aspect had disappeared in the project.
The Town Planner stated that it is still in the project. He stated that the applicant did not purchase the commercial side and the original owner still has that. The Town Planner discussed the history of the commercial portion of the application.
Mr. Bill Stagg, Lane Engineering, discussed the original PUD. He stated that the commercial portion of the project is still owned by B&H Development; probably after 50 or 60% of the project is done as he recalls.
Discussion occurred regarding elevation changes and whether the applicant knew that the original PUD was for the affordable housing market.
Mr. McDaniel discussed the original ordinance desiring architecture to be in concert with what is indigenous to downtown Easton.
The President of the Council stated that he felt it important to understand that Mr. McDaniels did not start this project. He purchased a parcel with an approved PUD with most of the infrastructure built and on the ground. Mr. Ford reviewed Mr. McDaniels’ statements saying that he would honor the three contracts for houses sold, he may contribute to the housing trust fund and to Talbot County Schools. He asked Mr. McDaniels to put some specificity to those concessions for the Council to consider and leave the written record of this public hearing open until the end of business on Friday. Mr. Ford stated that the public hearing will be continued at the next meeting to allow Council questions of the applicant.
Mr. Wendowski discussed the addition of the garage on the town homes. He stated that this would sell much quicker than a town home without a garage.
Mr. Ford discussed the procedure for the public hearing.
Ms. Jackson-Amis questioned how the continuance of the public hearing would affect the developer’s time frame for approval.
Mr. Hamilton discussed the process and the impact on the project.
Mr. McDaniel discussed the financial hardship for each day of delay. He stated that it costs $66,000 per month to carry the project.
Mr. Stagg discussed starting the permitting process for the product seen tonight. He stated that they can start things which take time in the town’s system if the council approves of the architectural product introduced tonight.
Mr. Wendowski stated that he thought that having the garages as the main focal point of the house was something we were trying to get away from. Mr. Stagg stated that this has been decided and improved upon.
Mr. Jensen stated that he does not want to start the precedent of approving the project for permitting process.
Ms. Jackson-Amis stated that she thinks the project and architectural design is tremendous.
Mr. Stagg thanked the Council for accelerating the process.
Mrs. Scott-Taylor stated that she thinks the architecture is far better than what has been seen. She stated that she is not offended by the garages in the front. Ms. Scott-Taylor stated that she hopes that the Council and the developer can come to a reasonable compromise on the affordable housing issue.
Ms. Van Emburgh briefed on the time issue. She stated that at the next meeting, if the Council is able to reach a consensus, this is an amendment to a PUD and requires and ordinance. She stated that if the Council reaches a consensus and work quickly, a Findings of Fact could be forthcoming at the next meeting where it could be introduced for a first reading and then at the following meeting, the ordinance could be passed.
At 9:24 p.m., the President of the Council closed the Public Hearing and left the written record open until the end of business on Friday and the public hearing will be continued at the next meeting.
(The Town Engineer Mr. Glass and Assistant Town Engineer Mr. Gruber departed following public hearing).
DISCUSSION OF ARCHITECTURAL STANDARDS
Mr. Jensen asked Ms. Lauren Dianich from Atelier 11 Architectural Firm to address the Council about why architectural standards are important and how they can be implemented. Mr. Jensen stated that he has a proposal for consideration after the presentation.
Ms. Lauren Dianich stated that the purpose of guidelines is just that; they are guidelines. She stated that there are things happening in Easton that could be different. Ms. Dianich discussed the variety of architecture around Easton. Ms. Dianich discussed the guidelines required in the Historic District and draft guidelines developed in Talbot County. She stated that we are creating waste and buildings that do not have any inherent character and value to the Town of Easton. Ms. Dianich stated that she thinks there should be variety to make very interesting buildings. She discussed benefits and the results of guidelines. Ms. Dianich stated that Easton deserves to hold onto what is special about it and do something proactive about it. Ms. Dianich stated that guidelines would also help the Planner.
Ms. Ginger Howell, Principal Eastern Shore Design Group, helped prepare those design guidelines. She stated that the purpose was industrial/commercial development.
The Town Planner stated that there are guidelines throughout the ordinance. He stated that there are strict architectural standards based on the Fort Collins. Mr. Hamilton stated that the one element Ms. Dianich is bringing out that is becoming a stumbling block to the Planning Commission is the architectural detail. The ordinance states that the architectural design should be compatible with the Comprehensive Plan. Mr. Hamilton stated that this needs to be clarified. He discussed how the Planning and Zoning Commission talk to corporations and developers. Mr. Hamilton stated that another level of bureaucracy scares him. He suggested coming up with a good guideline; similar to what the Historic District Commission has that will aid developers to give to their architects.
Mr. Jensen stated that the basic idea is to appoint a six to eight person Task Force with some architects, people from the development community, the Town Planner, some of the Planning and Zoning Commissioners and an attorney. Mr. Jensen stated that they will have three specific purposes: 1) to recommend how a review process would work for architectural standards; 2) give us an idea how design standards would be developed for Easton; 3) to recommend what kind of development such standards would be applied to; i.e., the PRD overlay zone, the entire town, the Historic District. He stated a recommendation would go to the Planning and Zoning Commission, if they like the idea pass it on to the Town Council with a recommendation and the Council then votes on it. After that, if accepted, the Council would take the necessary steps to draw up the standards.
Mr. Ford and Mrs. Scott-Taylor stated that they are in favor Mr. Jensen’s suggestion. Mr. Wendowski stated that he thinks it has merit and can be discussed at the next Council meeting although he would not like to see another hurdle for a developer to go through. Mr. Wendowski stated that this process would be adding time and time to a developer is money. He suggested coming up with broad guidelines the Planning Commission could work with.
Ms. Jackson-Amis stated that we don’t need a Commission. She stated that we need some guidelines that would be available to a developer. She stated that she feels that the Council is getting into the areas that should not be treaded on. She suggested putting the guidelines in the Comprehensive Plan where they could be looked at and reviewed.
Discussion occurred regarding another committee. Mr. Jensen stated that he is not proposing another commission. He stated that he wants a handful of people to make a recommendation to get the ball rolling.
Mr. Hamilton stated that the Draft Comprehensive Plan recommends that guidelines be developed.
Mr. Tom Batchelor discussed his work on the Historic District Commission.
Mr. Ford stated that it is his understanding that Mr. Jensen had permission to have a committee work on guidelines.
CONTINUATION OF DISCUSSION ON THE REQUEST OF DAVID E. WOLCOTT ON BEHALF OF CARROLL P. AND KAREN B. HARRISON FOR A PROPOSED PROJECT WHICH IS A RESIDENTIAL PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT FOR 13 TOWNHOUSES ON 1.71 ACRE SITE GENERALLY LOCATED IN THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF THE INTERSECTION OF LOCUST LANE AND SALMON AVENUE
Mayor Willey discussed his negotiations with the developer. He stated that they proposed a $1,000 contribution to the Housing Trust Fund per unit which he had forwarded to the Council.
Ms. Jackson-Amis stated that she does not believe the $1,000 is agreeable and the developer is already getting a density bonus. She stated that a $13,000 contribution to the Housing Trust Fund has no real relationship to the bonus they are getting. Ms. Jackson-Amis stated that the $13,000 is not supportive of what the Council is attempting to accomplish. She stated that she is not in favor of that $13,000.
Mr. Hamilton discussed the zoning allowed for Patriot Square. He stated that Patriot Square has as many units as they could put in there.
Ms. Jackson-Amis questioned the relationship of the $13,000 this developer will pay to what the value to what they are receiving.
Mrs. Scott-Taylor stated that the Council is struggling with this affordable housing issue and has to get their arms around this situation and determine the best way for developers to make an equitable contribution. Mrs. Scott-Taylor suggested a percentage of units or a percentage of the sale price of the home.
Ms. Jackson-Amis stated that this is so inconsistent and based on nothing.
Mr. Jensen suggesting proposing another suggestion.
Mr. Wendowski stated that he agrees with Ward 1. Mr. Wendowski suggested on a certain size development, 20% or 10% of the asking price.
Mayor Willey stated that it is very bad to make decisions on a case-by-case basis.
Mr. Ford stated that this is a proposal for a 13 town home development which is exactly what our Comprehensive Plans, existing and draft, wants growth to happen in this town. He stated that this is what we are supposed to be promoting.
Mr. Wendowski suggested a workshop to discuss developers’ contributions.
Mr. Ford stated that this ordinance requires action. The developer has offered $1,000 per unit and some architectural changes that have been proposed.
ORDINANCE NO. 468, “AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF EASTON GRANTING THE APPLICATION OF CARROLL P. AND KAREN B. HARRISON FOR THE PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT UNDER THE PROVISIONS OF THE EASTON ZONING ORDINANCE.”
The President of the Council introduced Ordinance No. 468 for a first reading. Mr. Ford stated that action would be taken during the next meeting.
ORDINANCE NO. 469, “AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF EASTON APPROVING AND AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A LEASE WITH CADMUS JOURNAL SERVICES, INC. OF LAND TO BE USED AS A SKATE PARK.”
The President of the Council introduced Ordinance No. 469 for a first reading.
The Assistant Town Attorney, Ms. Van Emburgh briefed on the history of the lease. She stated that this lease does indemnify and hold Cadmus harmless from any claims that may happen as a result of skate park. She stated that it is for $1 per year and the Town is responsible for the construction and operation of the skate park.
The Town Clerk stated that there is a provision to allow the Mayor to make minor changes.
Ms. Jackson-Amis made a motion to suspend the rules, seconded by Mr. Jensen and carried unanimously.
Mr. Jensen made a motion to approve Ordinance No. 469 for passage, seconded by Mr. Wendowski and carried unanimously following a roll call vote.
Mr. Ford added his congratulations to Mayor Willey for his work on this project.
ITEMS FROM THE COUNCIL
Mr. Jensen apologized to Ms. Jackson-Amis for raising his voice in previous discussion.
Ms. Jackson-Amis asked the Town Clerk to produce the tape regarding the RTC property and the number of Ward representatives for the Task Force Committee.
Ms. Jackson-Amis questioned if the February 2, 2004 letter in the packet has been proposed. The President of the Council asked the Council to consider the letter.
The President of the Council discussed the letter addressed the County Council which he would like sent prior to their public hearing tomorrow regarding the question of zoning on the Lowe’s property so the town can take an official position and support the efforts.
Mr. Jensen, Ms. Scott-Taylor and Mr. Wendowski stated that they support the letter. Ms. Jackson-Amis stated that she would be satisfied if the letter stated that it is with the consensus of the Town Council due to the fact that she has not decided how she feels about the issue at this time and wants to reserve her opinion.
Ms. Jackson-Amis discussed the letter in the Council’s packet dated October 31, 2003. She stated that she wanted to make sure that the Council agrees that on the second page, they are not disturbing in any way the agreement that is in place with Elm Street.
The President of the Council stated that the letter is enclosed only because he had it in his possession and no one else seemed to have it.
The Assistant Town Attorney briefed on the proposed letter to the County Council. The President of the Council asked that the letter be reflected per Ms. Jackson-Amis’ wishes that it was the consensus of the Mayor and Council.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
Upon motion by Mr. Jensen seconded by Mrs. Scott-Taylor and carried unanimously following a roll call vote, the Council went into Executive Session at 10:30 p.m.
ADJOURNMENT
Upon motion by Mrs. Scott-Taylor, seconded by Mr. Jensen and unanimously carried; the President of the Council adjourned the regular council meeting at 10:55 p.m.
______________________________________ Town Clerk