Board of Commissioners

Town of Cramerton Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting July 14, 2026 – 6:00 p.m. G. M. Michael Commission Chamber – Town Hall, Cramerton, NC Mayor Nelson Wills called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. on July 14, 2026, in the G. M. Michael Commission Chamber, Town Hall, Cramerton, North Carolina and determined there was a quorum. Mrs. Nicole Wills presented the Invocation and led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. PRESENT: Elected Officials: Mayor Nelson Wills Mayor Pro Tempore Richard Atkinson Dixie Abernathy Jennifer Ramsey Ronnie Worley Staff: Town Manager Josh Watkins Assistant Town Manager Chase Sturgis Town Attorney Karen Wolter Town Clerk Missy Melton ABSENT: Commissioner Kathy Ramsey Statement from Mayor Wills Regarding Commissioner Kathy Ramsey Mayor Wills announced that he had received a letter of resignation from Commissioner Kathy Ramsey on July 3, 2026. He stated that the resignation was effective immediately and noted that Commissioner Ramsey had recently moved to McAdenville. Mayor Wills then read the following resignation letter into the record: Dear Mayor, After much prayer and careful consideration, it is with sincere regret that I submit my resignation as a Town Commissioner, effective immediately. Serving the citizens of our town has been a true honor and privilege. I am grateful for the opportunity to work alongside you, my fellow commissioners, and our dedicated town staff in serving this wonderful community. This decision has not been an easy one, but I believe it is the right choice at this time. I appreciate your support, friendship, and leadership, and I pray for God's continued guidance and blessings upon you and our town. Thank you again for the opportunity to serve. Respectfully, Kathy Ramsey ITEM 3: Adoption of Agenda Agenda Change Mayor Wills announced a change to the meeting agenda. He stated that the Community Committee Report, which was originally listed at the end of the agenda, would instead be presented as an update presentation under Item 5A. As a result, the Eighth Avenue Underpass Signal Warrant Analysis was moved to Item 5B. Motion was made by Mayor Pro Tempore Atkinson to approve the agenda as amended. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Worley. The motion was approved unanimously. ITEM 4: Public Comment No Public Comment ITEM 5: Proclamations and Presentation 5a: Cramerton Community Committee Updates Kayla Lackey, Chair of the Cramerton Community Committee, presented an update on the committee's activities. She reported that the committee currently has seven active members and identified each member by name. Ms. Lackey advised that the committee's end fund balance was $2,037.87 (a complete financial report, along with the minutes from the committee's previous meeting, was included in the agenda packet for the Board's reference.) Ms. Lackey highlighted several accomplishments from FY 2025–2026 and provided a brief overview of the committee's planned initiatives and goals for FY 2026–2027. 5b: Eighth Avenue Underpass Signal Warrant Analysis: Presenter, Edith Peters with Freese and Nichols Presentation from Edith Peters, Transportation Engineer with Freese and Nichols Edith Peters, Transportation Engineer with Freese and Nichols, presented the results of the Traffic Signal Warrant Analysis for the intersection of North Main Street and Eighth Avenue adjacent to the railroad underpass. She thanked Town staff for their assistance throughout the study. Ms. Peters explained that the purpose of the study was to determine whether a traffic signal is warranted at the intersection and to provide a recommendation for moving forward. She described the location as unique due to the one-lane railroad underpass, limited visibility, and the short distance between the underpass and the intersection, all of which create operating conditions unlike a typical intersection. The study included new traffic counts, a review of five years of crash data, an evaluation of existing roadway conditions, and a traffic signal warrant analysis conducted in accordance with the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) and NCDOT policy. Of the four applicable signal warrants evaluated, the four-hour vehicular volume warrant was met, while the eight-hour volume, peak-hour, and crash experience warrants were not. Ms. Peters noted that a signal warrant analysis is only one component of the decision-making process and that engineering judgment is also an important consideration, particularly at locations with unique operating conditions. She stated that the study identified four key findings: • One traffic signal warrant was met. • The one-lane underpass creates unique operational challenges not fully reflected in the warrant calculations. • Limited sight distance makes it difficult for drivers exiting the underpass to judge opposing traffic movements. • There were 33 reported crashes within the study area over the past five years, including 25 reported strikes to the underpass. Based on these findings, Ms. Peters recommended that the Town request NCDOT approval to install a traffic signal at North Main Street and Eighth Avenue with signal phasing designed to manage traffic through the one-lane underpass. She explained that although NCDOT generally prefers that two signal warrants be met before approving a traffic signal, the unique characteristics of this location provide strong engineering justification for moving the request forward. She advised that, if supported by the Board, the next step would be to submit the recommendation to NCDOT for review and approval. If approved, the Town would coordinate with NCDOT on signal design while also evaluating additional underpass safety improvements, including enhanced warning devices and signage. Board members discussed the reported crash data, traffic backups, potential signal operations, coordination with Norfolk Southern Railroad, truck routing, and possible additional safety measures. Ms. Peters explained that the signal could operate using vehicle detection during peak traffic periods and that other warning systems could be evaluated during the design process. She estimated that, following NCDOT approval, design and construction could take approximately 18 to 36 months, depending on the required approvals and coordination with the railroad. Mayor Wills announced that the Town had secured $250,000 (a quarter of a million dollars) in State funding for improvements to the underpass project. He also reported that Norfolk Southern officials had expressed support for safety improvements at the location and stated that Town staff would continue working with NCDOT, Norfolk Southern, and State representatives to advance the project. Following discussion, the consensus of the Board was to move forward with submitting the recommendation to NCDOT to begin the approval process for the proposed traffic signal and related safety improvements. ITEM 6: Consent Agenda 6a: Board of Commissioners Meeting Minutes May 4, 2026 6b: Board of Commissioners Meeting Minutes May 19, 2026 6c: Board of Commissioners Meeting Minutes June 2, 2026 6d: Board of Commissioners Closed Session Meeting Minutes June 2, 2026 6e: Board of Commissioners Meeting Minutes June 23, 2026 6f: Board of Commissioners Special Meeting Minutes August 16, 2024 6g: Board of Commissioners Special Meeting Closed Session Minutes August 16, 2024 A motion was made by Commissioner Worley to approve the Consent Agenda as presented. The motion was seconded by Commissioner J. Ramsey. The vote was all in favor. ITEM 7: Agenda Items Requiring a Public Hearing No Items ITEM 8: Agenda Items NOT Requiring a Public Hearing 8a: Resolution in Opposition to SB 1047 Town Manager Watkins presented a resolution expressing the Town's opposition to Senate Bill 1047. He explained that the legislation had been introduced in previous sessions in various forms but had gained significant momentum during the current legislative session. He noted that the bill originally focused on providing relief to rural hospitals and had received full Senate approval in that form before being substantially amended to address municipal development regulations. Manager Watkins stated that the proposed resolution was based on a template prepared by the North Carolina League of Municipalities, which staff adapted for the Town of Cramerton. He explained that the legislation would significantly limit municipalities' authority to regulate development by requiring more standardized development regulations across the state. He stated that the Town's position is to preserve local control over development standards to ensure that future growth is consistent with Cramerton's vision and community standards. Manager Watkins recommended approval of the resolution and advised that, if adopted, it would be forwarded to the Town's local legislative delegation to communicate the Board's opposition to the proposed legislation. A motion was made by Commissioner J. Ramsey to approve the Resolution in Opposition to SB 1047. The motion was seconded by Mayor Pro Tempore Atkinson. The vote was all in favor. 8b: Town Code No Parking Schedule Changes Town Manager Watkins presented a proposed amendment to Section 76, Schedule 1 of the Town Code to designate the publicly maintained portion of Cramerton Village Drive, from Wilkinson Boulevard to the end of the publicly maintained roadway, as a no-parking zone. Manager Watkins explained that the request originated more than a year earlier during the approval of the Millstone development, when residents of Cramerton Village expressed concerns about on- street parking along Cramerton Village Drive, which serves as the only entrance and exit for both neighborhoods. Rather than implementing restrictions preemptively, staff monitored the area for approximately one year. After recently receiving complaints and photographs showing vehicles parked along the roadway, staff evaluated the situation and determined that a no-parking designation was appropriate. Manager Watkins stated that several factors supported the recommendation, including the roadway serving as the sole access point for the neighborhood and the presence of a hill and curve near the Millstone development that create visibility concerns. He explained that parked vehicles in this area could reduce sight distance and create safety hazards for motorists. If approved, the amendment would make the restriction enforceable by the Police Department. Staff also planned to notify the builder and install appropriate signage before enforcement began. Commissioners discussed the proposal and asked for clarification regarding the Town's definition of long-term parking as referenced elsewhere in the ordinance. It was noted that the ordinance defines long-term parking as overnight parking lasting two or more nights. A motion was made by Commissioner Worley to approve the Town Code No Parking Schedule Changes. The motion was seconded by Commissioner J. Ramsey. The vote was all in favor. 8c: Resolution of Intent to Abandon a Portion of Lake Wylie Road Planning Director Nolan Groce presented a proposed resolution declaring the Town's intent to abandon a portion of Lake Wylie Road as part of Phase 2A of the Red Hawk development. He explained that the section proposed for abandonment extends from South New Hope Road to just east of the former Gaston County Recycling Center. As shown on the preliminary plans and recorded plat, access to all existing homes on Lake Wylie Road will be maintained throughout construction. Mr. Groce reviewed an exhibit showing the portion of the existing roadway proposed for abandonment, outlined in red, and the newly aligned roadway, shown in green, which will become part of the Red Hawk development. He explained that the Town is coordinating with NCDOT to ensure uninterrupted access for existing residents during construction. The existing roadway will not be removed until the new roadway is completed, the final pavement lift is installed, and the abandonment process is finalized. If the resolution is adopted, a public hearing will be held on August 18, 2026. Staff will publish notices in the Gaston Gazette for four consecutive weeks, mail notices to all adjoining property owners, post signs at the proposed abandonment site, and provide a copy of the resolution to NCDOT in accordance with state statutes. Commissioners asked several questions regarding the abandonment process and the impact on nearby residents. Mr. Groce explained that approximately 25 to 50 homes in Gaston County rely on Lake Wylie Road as their only access to South New Hope Road, making it essential that the new roadway be completed before the existing roadway is closed. He noted that the Town followed a similar process during the abandonment and realignment of North Lake Wylie Road. Town Manager Watkins added that the anticipated completion date for the new roadway is August 10, 2026, which aligns closely with the proposed public hearing date. He also noted that coordination with Gaston County regarding the relocation of the convenience site has been one of the primary factors affecting the project schedule. Commissioners also asked whether the newly aligned section of Lake Wylie Road would remain a state-maintained roadway. Staff confirmed that the roadway will continue to be maintained by NCDOT. Mayor Pro Tempore Atkinson made a motion to approve the Resolution of Intent to Abandon a Portion of Lake Wylie Road. Commissioner Worley seconded the motion. The vote was all in favor. 8d: Tates Trail Letter of Support Planning Director Nolan Groce presented a request from Smith Douglas Homes for a letter of support to accompany its Section 404 permit application with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for the proposed Tate's Trail Extension. He explained that the permit is required because the project includes a wetland crossing. The requested letter does not reduce any regulatory requirements or mitigation obligations but highlights the public benefits of the roadway connection. Mr. Groce reviewed the proposed extension, which would connect the existing Tate's Trail in the Terraces development to Hill Road in Gaston County. He noted that the extension will improve connectivity among several residential developments in the area, including Riverbend, Cramerton Mills, Villages at Cramerton, the Terraces, Red Hawk, and Riverwood. He further explained that the Tate's Trail Extension was a condition of approval for the Riverbend rezoning (Petition RZ25-04A). Staff is currently reviewing the roadway construction plans in coordination with the Town's engineering consultant, Boler Ravenel, and NCDOT to ensure the final design meets state standards. Commissioners asked questions regarding the Army Corps of Engineers permitting process, the proposed wetland crossing, roadway design, and project timing. Staff explained that the Army Corps is evaluating the cumulative impacts of multiple developments in the area rather than each project individually. It was also noted that the roadway connection is intended to provide a much- needed second access point for residents along Hamrick Road, and that construction of the connection is required to occur early in the Riverbend development. Commissioner Worley made a motion to approve the Letter of Support for the Tate's Trail Extension. Commissioner J. Ramsey seconded the motion. The vote was all in favor. 8e: Washington Street Speed Study Planning Director Nolan Groce presented the results of the Washington Street Speed Study, which is included in the agenda packet on page 89. He explained that the Board had previously directed staff to conduct the study in response to a citizen's concern regarding speeding on Washington Street. Mr. Groce stated that the study focused on the 400 and 500 blocks of Washington Street and was conducted in two phases. Phase One data was collected from May 27 through May 29, and Phase Two from June 3 through June 8. During Phase One, a total of 323 vehicles were recorded with an average speed of 15 mph. The highest recorded speed was 31 mph, and 59 vehicles (18.3%) were traveling above the posted speed limit of 20 mph. During Phase Two, a total of 456 vehicles were recorded, also with an average speed of 15 mph. The highest recorded speed was 36 mph, and 71 vehicles (15.57%) exceeded the posted speed limit. Based on the Town of Cramerton's adopted Traffic Calming Policy, the average speed of approximately 15 mph in both phases classifies the area as a Class C traffic issue, indicating that the average speed is at or below the posted speed limit. Mr. Groce also reported that there had been no reported traffic collisions related to speeding within the past 12 months. Based on these findings, staff recommended no additional traffic calming measures at this time. Commissioner Abernathy thanked the Police Department and Planning Department for conducting the study, noting that it had been requested in response to a citizen's concern. She stated that she believed the residents of Washington Street would be pleased to see that speeding was minimal and expressed her support for staff's recommendation to leave the roadway unchanged. The Board voiced no further comments and accepted the report as presented. 8f: Gaston Business Association EDC Services Contract Steve D'Avria, Senior Vice President of the Gaston Business Association (GBA), presented a revised proposal for an Economic Development Services Partnership with the Town of Cramerton. He explained that following the Board's discussion at the previous meeting, GBA met with Town staff to reevaluate the proposed scope of work, prioritize services, and adjust the pricing to better align with the Town's needs. Mr. D'Avria reviewed the revised scope of services, noting that additions were highlighted in green, services exceeding those provided to the Town of Dallas were identified in blue, and certain items had been removed to reduce costs. The proposed services were organized into four primary categories: • Business Engagement and Town Staff Support, including coordinating quarterly "Coffee and Conversations" events, meeting regularly with Town economic development staff, providing monthly activity reports, and making an annual presentation to the Board. • Marketing and Communications, including development of a monthly business newsletter, management of a business-focused social media group, promotion of local businesses and events, and support for the Economic Development Advisory Committee. • Business Recruitment and Connections, including use of business recruitment resources such as LoopNet and Main Street America's BoomTracker, making referrals to economic development partners, and providing peer-to-peer business assistance. • Committee Programming and Social District Support, including administrative support for the Economic Development Advisory Committee, assistance with social district marketing and branded cup coordination, and providing Town representatives with tickets to GBA breakfast programs focused on economic development, legislation, and emerging topics. Mr. D'Avria also discussed GBA's participation in regional economic development meetings, explaining that his organization regularly attends countywide meetings, prepares summaries and reports, and shares information with Town leadership. He further highlighted positive feedback received from business owners and economic development partners regarding GBA's collaborative efforts in Gaston County. Mr. D'Avria stated that the original proposal had been reduced from $2,500 per month to $1,500 per month, with the agreement beginning August 1, resulting in an 11-month contract totaling $16,500 for the initial term. Commissioner Abernathy thanked Mr. D'Avria for revising the proposal and working collaboratively with the Board's feedback. She asked why the revised contract amount exceeded the previously discussed target range of $12,000 to $15,000. Mr. D'Avria explained that after reviewing the Town's requested services with staff and GBA's board, the organization determined the revised scope warranted the proposed fee and included services beyond those provided under similar agreements with other municipalities. Commissioner Abernathy also asked how the Board could measure the success of the partnership after one year. Mr. D'Avria stated that potential performance measures would include increased business occupancy, growth in the commercial tax base, business engagement, participation in networking events, and the use of Placer.ai data to evaluate visitor traffic, event attendance, and consumer activity. He noted that monthly reports, committee updates, and an annual presentation would allow the Board to monitor progress throughout the agreement. Mayor Pro Tempore Atkinson commented that the partnership would require participation and collaboration from both the Town and GBA to ensure its success. Mr. D'Avria agreed and stated that regular communication with Town officials and staff would be a priority throughout the partnership. Commissioners discussed the value of Placer.ai data for measuring visitor trends and evaluating the effectiveness of marketing efforts and community events. Mayor Pro Tempore Atkinson made a motion to approve the Gaston Business Association EDC Services Contract as presented. Commissioner Worley seconded the motion. The vote was all in favor. Mayor Wills called for a recess at 7:26 p.m. The meeting was reconvened at 7:30 p.m. 8g: Job Description Updates Town Manager Watkins presented the proposed updates to the Town's job descriptions. He explained that following the adoption of the FY 2026-2027 Budget and Personnel Policy updates in June, staff intended to review and update job descriptions more regularly rather than waiting extended periods between revisions. Manager Watkins stated that the proposed revisions focused on three departments: Finance, Parks and Recreation, and Administration. For the Finance Department, he explained that Finance Director Jessica Sawyers had completed a review of the department's responsibilities and worked with the Town's auditor to revise the job descriptions to ensure appropriate segregation of duties and internal controls. The department would continue to consist of three positions: Finance Director, Senior Finance and Human Resources Specialist, and Finance Specialist. The positions were reclassified to more accurately reflect current responsibilities and provide proper oversight of financial processes. Regarding the Parks and Recreation Department, Manager Watkins acknowledged that several duties had inadvertently been omitted from the Athletic Coordinator's job description when the personnel policy was previously updated. The revisions restored those responsibilities, including athletic coordination and special events duties. He also noted that the previously approved part- time athletics position had been updated to include assistance with special events. Mr. Watkins then presented the proposed changes to the Administration Department, including the creation of a Communications Specialist position. He explained that the position would oversee the Town's communication efforts, including management of the website, social media platforms, mobile application, newsletters, and other public information. These responsibilities had previously been assigned to the Town Clerk. As the Town continued to grow, he recommended separating the communications responsibilities from the traditional duties of the Town Clerk to allow each position to focus on its primary responsibilities. The Town Clerk job description was revised accordingly to remove those communications-related duties. Manager Watkins emphasized that the proposal did not increase the Town's staffing levels. The Communications Specialist would be filled through an internal reorganization, with existing personnel assuming the new role. No additional full-time positions were being requested. During Board discussion, Mayor Pro Tempore Atkinson expressed concern about the extensive list of responsibilities assigned to the part-time Parks and Recreation position. Manager Watkins explained that the position was designed primarily for evening and weekend work, including athletic programs, special events, and facility responsibilities, allowing full-time staff to maintain their regular work schedules while ensuring adequate coverage during nontraditional hours. Commissioner Abernathy asked whether the revised job descriptions and qualification requirements would create any challenges as the positions transitioned internally and when they are filled in the future. Manager Watkins explained that the job descriptions were written to reflect the long-term needs of each position rather than being tailored to a specific employee. He noted that while the employee transitioning into the Communications Specialist role would continue assisting with some Parks and Recreation programming during the transition, the duties were structured to allow the position to evolve as the Town grows. He further stated that the employee selected for the Communications Specialist position already possessed relevant communications experience, and although future professional development opportunities may be beneficial, no additional training would be required for the individual to successfully assume the position. Commissioner Worley made a motion to approve the Updated Job Descriptions as presented. Commissioner J. Ramsey seconded the motion. The vote was all in favor. ITEM 9: Manager’s Report Town Manager Watkins presented his Manager's Report and announced that the agenda would begin including expanded reports from the Town's advisory boards. In addition to the Community Committee and Parks and Recreation Advisory Board reports, future agenda packets will include reports and meeting minutes from the Planning and Zoning Board and other advisory boards providing the Board of Commissioners with greater insight into their activities. He also stated that advisory board representatives would periodically attend Board meetings to provide updates, similar to presentations previously made by the ABC Board and the Cramerton Community Committee. Manager Watkins then provided updates on several ongoing and upcoming projects throughout the Town. For the River Link Greenway Extension, he reported that the contractor had received the notice to proceed in late June. Survey crews were currently identifying and marking the limits of disturbance along the project corridor, with construction expected to begin within the next four to six weeks. Manager Watkins reported that the Town had received a $100,000 Recreational Trails Program grant to support the Cramer Mountain Road Trail project. With the design complete and funding secured, staff anticipated advertising the project for bids in September, with construction expected to begin in the spring. He also announced that the Town had been awarded a $125,000 State grant for the construction of an amphitheater at the Centennial Center. The grant, secured through the efforts of Senator Overcash, will provide an enhanced venue for concerts and community events. Staff will present conceptual plans to the Board later this year to help guide the design and ensure the project is ready to move forward once the funding is received. Manager Watkins advised that Front Street beautification remained a priority project for the coming year. Staff will return to the Board with conceptual plans for discussion as work progresses. Finally, he provided an update on the Eighth Avenue Underpass painting and signal project, noting that staff was optimistic about securing the necessary approvals while minimizing impacts associated with the railroad right-of-way in order to expedite the project. ITEM 10: General Staff Reports Legal • Nothing to report Finance • Finance Director, Jessica Sawyers reported that the Finance Department was doing well. She informed the Board that interviews for the vacant Finance Specialist position had been conducted during the week and expressed optimism that the hiring process was progressing successfully. Stormwater • Stormwater Administrator, Mackenzie Phillips reported that stormwater operations were proceeding well and welcomed the recent rainfall. • Commissioner J. Ramsey shared that Mrs. Phillips had written the children's book that will be featured in the StoryWalk. Mrs. Phillips explained that the story follows a salamander learning about stream pollution and was created to serve a dual purpose by fulfilling requirements of the Town's stormwater permit while also providing educational content for the StoryWalk program. • During Board discussion, Mayor Wills asked for clarification regarding the report's reference to three illicit discharge investigations and two Notices of Violation. Mrs. Phillips explained that an illicit discharge is any instance of pollution entering the stormwater system. She stated that the Notices of Violation were issued after staff identified two chlorinated swimming pool discharges into storm drains and construction site sediment runoff entering the stormwater system. Certified letters were sent to the responsible parties outlining the violations and the corrective actions necessary to return to compliance. Public Works • Assistant Town Manager/Public Works Director, Chase Sturgis reported that Public Works operations were progressing well despite recent equipment issues. He noted that one of the Town's mowers had experienced mechanical problems but was expected to be repaired the following day. He also recognized Parks and Recreation Director Brandon Free and his staff for all their work with the Town's 250th Anniversary celebration, stating that the event featured an excellent fireworks display, a large crowd, and only one minor issue that was quickly resolved through staff teamwork. • During discussion, Mayor Wills provided an update on the decorative bridge lighting, explaining that the lights would now operate nightly from dusk until dawn since the seasonal mayfly activity had ended. Manager Watkins noted that the lights had previously been used sparingly due to the large number of insects they attracted, which created significant cleanup efforts for staff. • The Board also discussed maintenance challenges along the railroad embankment adjacent to Front Street. Mayor Wills suggested exploring a pilot project to reduce maintenance by planting wildflowers or other low-maintenance vegetation on a small section of the steep slope, making the area appear more intentional while reducing the need for mowing. Commissioners discussed alternative landscaping options, including ornamental grasses, groundcover, evergreen plantings, and other vegetation capable of thriving in the rocky  conditions. Town Manager Watkins stated that staff would research appropriate landscaping options and return to the Board with recommendations for a potential demonstration project. • In response to questions from the Board regarding the recent storm, Mr. Sturgis reported that the Town experienced several downed trees and a significant increase in brush collection following heavy weather. Public Works crews responded to the calls, completed cleanup efforts, and made additional trips to dispose of storm debris. Planning • Planning Director, Nolan Groce reported that the Planning Department is finalizing implementation of a new online permitting system. He explained that the Town is transitioning away from its current software to a platform that is better integrated with the Town's operational needs and will improve permitting services. • Mr. Groce also reported that staff is completing its review of the Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for engineering and planning services. He noted that the Town received 17 submissions from highly qualified firms and that staff would be meeting to discuss the next steps in the selection process. • Mr. Groce stated that the selected engineering firm will play an important role in assisting with future planning initiatives, including the Town's downtown planning efforts. • During Board discussion, Mayor Wills asked for an update on the proposed Publix grocery store and whether an opening around April of next year remains a realistic timeframe. Mr. Groce responded that the Town had recently received another submittal from the developer and based on the current review schedule, anticipated that construction approvals could be issued. He stated that the developer remained eager to move the project forward, although the construction schedule would ultimately depend on weather and other factors. • Mayor Wills also commented on the recent renovations at the Food Lion store and expressed appreciation for the improvements. Mr. Groce added that, once Town approvals are complete, the Publix project will proceed to Gaston County for building permit issuance so construction can begin. Code Enforcement • Nothing additional to report Parks and Recreation • Nothing additional to report Police • Captain Debbold provided an update on the Police Department's staffing. He reported that the department's four recent hires are currently in various phases of field training and are progressing ahead of expectations. As they complete their training, they will begin serving independently on regular patrol assignments. • In response to a question from the Board, Captain Debbold confirmed that once all four officers complete their field training, the Police Department will be fully staffed. He noted that it has been approximately two years since the department last operated at full staffing levels. The Board congratulated the Police Department on its successful recruitment and retention efforts and expressed appreciation for the department's continued progress. Fire • Town Manager Watkins, reporting on behalf of the Fire Department, advised the Board that the fire apparatus temporarily parked outside the station was the result of ongoing floor repairs inside the fire station. He noted that the department was not turning the property into a used fire apparatus sales lot but rather had moved the equipment outdoors while the repairs were being completed. He commented that it was interesting to see the apparatus displayed outside during the construction work. Town Hall • Nothing additional to report ITEM 11: Committee Reports Nothing additional to report ITEM 12: Topics of Discussion for Each Commissioner Mayor Pro Tempore Atkinson reported that the storyboard for Patriot Alley has been printed and is ready for installation. The display structure has been completed, but the final installation is awaiting delivery of the display panels, which are expected this week. Once installed, the storyboard will complete that portion of the project. He noted that one additional project remains—a mural on the Design Tech side of the building. The vision for the mural is to create a pictorial display featuring historical photographs that will serve as a fitting complement to the Patriot Alley project. Commissioner Abernathy offered two commendations, a challenge, and a closing comment. She first echoed the recognition of the Town's successful June 27th celebration and commended every department and staff member for their contributions. She specifically recognized the Fire Department for their efforts on Goat Island the morning of the event, noting that staff arrived early to remove a large number of mayflies from the bridge after adapting to unexpected conditions from the previous evening. She stated that the day demonstrated the commitment and teamwork of the Town's employees in making the event a success. Commissioner Abernathy also commended Town Manager Watkins, Assistant Town Manager Chase Sturgis, Planning Director Nolan Groce, and other staff working behind the scenes on major projects such as the traffic signal and the River Link Greenway. She acknowledged the extensive planning, paperwork, and coordination required to move these projects forward and expressed her appreciation for their efforts. As a challenge to the Board and staff, Commissioner Abernathy encouraged exploring ways to increase the use of Central Park. She noted that the park is beautifully maintained by the Parks Department but is often underutilized. She suggested considering the addition of a unique feature or attraction that would encourage more residents to visit the park and emphasized that adequate parking is available within a short walking distance. In closing, Commissioner Abernathy recognized the Cramerton Historical Society for its work in authoring an article published in the North State Journal during the July 4th weekend as part of the newspaper's coverage of America's 250th anniversary. She noted that the article highlighted the Town of Cramerton and Stuart W. Cramer, providing statewide exposure to the Town's history and heritage. She thanked the Historical Society for its efforts in promoting Cramerton and its unique historical significance. Mayor Wills shared that surveillance cameras had been installed at Patriot's Alley earlier that day. Manager Watkins noted that the system was experiencing minor technical difficulties but was expected to be operational by the following day. Mayor Wills stated the cameras were installed to help deter and document any potential vandalism. Mayor Wills also discussed the upcoming C.B. Huss Recreation Center renovation project, noting that funding had already been appropriated. He stated that he looked forward to reviewing the renovation plans and seeing the project move forward, emphasizing that improving the facility was the first priority before expanding programming and activities. Mayor Wills shared a suggestion from Mr. Andrew Worley regarding the installation of a portable restroom at the Rocky Branch River Trail trailhead. He noted that the neighboring City of Belmont currently provides this amenity and suggested the Town consider adding one as well. Mayor Wills announced that the Town had officially received notification of a $950,000 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) for the Neighborhood Revitalization Program. He read the opening paragraph of the award letter recognizing the Town's successful application and the efforts made to secure the funding. Town Manager Watkins explained that, unlike the previous CDBG award, this grant was not designated for a specific neighborhood. Instead, the Town would establish an application process for eligible residents. Grant Administrator Steve Austin would develop the application procedures, verify income eligibility, and determine applicant qualifications. Staff also discussed working with community organizations, including the Community Committee and local neighborhood representatives, to help identify and inform potentially eligible residents once the application process was established. Mayor Wills concluded by recognizing the Town's continued success in obtaining grant funding, referencing the recently awarded CDBG funds in addition to other major grants, including funding for the underpass, amphitheater, and trail projects. He encouraged staff to continue pursuing grant opportunities for future Town improvements. A motion was made by Commissioner Abernathy to enter into closed session. The motion was seconded by Mayor Pro Tempore Atkinson. The motion carried by a vote of 3 to 1. Mayor Pro Tempore Atkinson, Commissioner Abernathy, and Commissioner J. Ramsey voted in favor. Commissioner Worley voted in opposition. ITEM 13: Closed Session Closed Session per NCGS 143-318.11(a)(3) To Consult with an Attorney Employed or Retained by the Public Body in Order to Preserve the Attorney-Client Privilege Between the Attorney and the Public Body.  ITEM 14: Adjournment A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tempore Atkinson to adjourn, and Commissioner Abernathy seconded the motion. The vote was all in favor. The meeting was adjourned at 8:45 p.m. Nelson Wills, Mayor ATTEST: Missy Melton, Town Clerk