Board of Commissioners

Fuquay-Varina Town Board Meeting Minutes Book - Page Fuquay-Varina Town Board Meeting March 24, 2025 J. Blake Massengill, Mayor Marilyn Gardner, Mayor Pro-Tem William H. Harris, Commissioner The Regular Meeting of the Fuquay-Varina Town Bryan Haynes, Commissioner Board scheduled for Monday, March 24, 2025, at Charlie Adcock, Commissioner Jason Wunsch - Commissioner 7:00 p.m. was held at the Fuquay-Varina Town Adam G. Mitchell, Town Manager Mark D. Matthews, Assistant Town Manager Hall, 134 N Main Street, Fuquay-Varina, NC. James (Jim) E. Seymour, Assistant Town Manager Teresa Wilder, Town Clerk James S. Adcock, III, Town Attorney Mayor Blake Massengill, Mayor Pro-Tem Marilyn Gardner, Bryan Haynes, Charlie Adcock, and Jason Wunsch were in attendance. Also in attendance were Town Manager Adam Mitchell, Assistant Town Manager Mark Matthews, Assistant Town Manager Jim Seymour, Town Attorney James Adcock, Town Clerk Teresa Wilder, IT Director Scott Clark, and various other department directors. Commissioner Bill Harris was absent. CALL TO ORDER Mayor Massengill called the meeting to order at 7:01 pm. INVOCATION AND PLEDGE Public Works Director Tracy Stephenson provided the invocation, and Gavin McKnight, a freshman at Willow Springs High School and a Boy Scout led the Pledge of Allegiance. VIRTUAL MEETING PROTOCOL Town Manager Mitchell reviewed the meeting protocol, noting that it was in-person and live- streamed on the Town’s YouTube Channel and Facebook Page. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 3A The March 3, 2025, Town Board of Commissioners Regular Scheduled Meeting. MOTION: Mayor Pro-Tem Gardner SECOND: Commissioner Adcock MOTION RESULTS: Passed Unanimously (4-0) PRESENTATIONS 4A Employee Recognition Purpose – To recognize Police Department employees for professional development achievements. Police Chief Tim Smith recognized the following: Officer Michael McClanahan recently earned the North Carolina Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Commission Intermediate Law Enforcement Certificate Officer Salvatore Fundaro recently earned a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Columbia Southern University. Mayor Massengill extended his appreciation to the individuals for pursuing ongoing education and career advancement, which in turn benefits the Fuquay-Varina Police  Department and the community by bringing back new opportunities. The Mayor and the Town Board expressed their gratitude for the accomplishments achieved by these dedicated individuals. Police Chief Tim Smith announced that the Police Department has achieved a significant milestone by earning CALEA accreditation and will now move forward with seeking specialized certification from the state of North Carolina. Mayor Masengill praised the department's hard work and looked forward to an upcoming presentation highlighting their notable achievement. Town Manager Adam Mitchell reported that obtaining CALEA accreditation is a rare distinction, with fewer than 1% of police departments nationwide meeting the rigorous standards required to achieve this prestigious recognition. 4B 2024 North Carolina Main Street Award - Economic Vitality: Best Infill Building Project Award, The Q Purpose – To recognize the downtown project, The Q, for receiving the North Carolina Main Street Award - Economic Vitality for Best Infill Building Project. The North Carolina Main Street Program has recognized the Town of Fuquay-Varina by issuing the award for Economic Vitality: Best Infill Building Project for the downtown mixed-use project, The Q. Developed by Raleigh Street Properties, LLC, and designed by The Bogle Firm Architecture, the award was presented for this project that seamlessly blends modern amenities with the character of its surroundings. The Q is Fuquay-Varina's first multistory, mixed-use development project downtown. It is four stories high and spans 36,000 square feet, with retail on the first floor, office  suites on the second, and residential condominiums on the third and fourth floors. Key tenants include El Cantarito Bar and Grill, Happy's Country Club, and others. The upscale condos feature modern amenities, with seven configurations ranging from one to two bedrooms and one to two baths. Local developers Bryden McCormick and David Ball, aiming to meet the demand for upscale retail and restaurant space downtown, partnered with the Town of Fuquay- Varina to exchange a parking lot for the development site. The Town provided a $200,000 economic development incentive to support the project. The project was completed on time despite construction delays due to the pandemic. It created 36,459 square feet of mixed-use space, 8,990 square feet of retail space, 9,200 square feet of office space, and over 18,000 square feet of residential space. The project is valued at $10 million and has created 40 new jobs. Mayor Massengill, on behalf of the Town Board, extended heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Bryden McCormick and David Ball for their outstanding contributions to the community of Fuquay-Varina, particularly highlighting their instrumental role in bringing the exceptional Q building project to Fuquay-Varina. 4C 2024 NC Main Street Champion Recognition - David Ball Purpose – To recognize the Town of Fuquay-Varina's 2024 North Carolina Main Street Champion - David Ball. The NC Main Street Champion designation honors those persons who have made extraordinary contributions to their downtown.  Mayor Massengill extended congratulations to David Ball, the newly named 2024 Main Street Champion, expressing gratitude for his numerous contributions to the community of Fuquay-Varina. PUBLIC COMMENTS 5A Emily Holloway, 312 Angier Road, brought two concerns to the attention of the Town Board. First, she highlighted the need for repairs to the sidewalks at the intersection of Fuquay and Raleigh Street to ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Additionally, she expressed her concern about the potential consequences of the USDA's decision to cut $11 million in food bank assistance funding. Furthermore, she voiced her opposition to Senate Bill 50, which proposes to allow 18-year-olds to purchase firearms, citing concerns about the potential impact on public safety. ITEMS PREVIOUSLY TABLED 6A No items were previously tabled for the March 24, 2025, Town Board meeting. PUBLIC HEARINGS 7A No public hearings for the March 24, 2025, Town Board meeting. CONSENT AGENDA 8A. Voluntary Annexation Petition - 2401 N Broad Street - PIN 0658406273 - ANX-2025- 02 Purpose – To consider the adoption of a resolution instructing the Town Clerk to investigate an annexation petition and adopt a resolution setting a public hearing for  April 7, 2025, following the receipt of a petition for voluntary annexation of property owned by Haddock Properties V LLC, property containing a total of approximately 3.168 acres. Recommendation – Adopt the resolution instructing the Town Clerk to investigate the voluntary annexation petition and adopt the resolution setting the public hearing for a voluntary annexation petition on April 7, 2025, for properties owned by Haddock Properties V LLC - ANX-2025-02 as presented and recommended. Resolution No. 25-1915 Resolution No. 25-2916 8B. Voluntary Annexation Petition - 614 Old Honeycutt, LLC - 614 Old Honeycutt Road - PIN 0666688927 - ANX-2025-03 Purpose – To consider the adoption of a resolution instructing the Town Clerk to investigate an annexation petition and adopt a resolution setting a public hearing for April 7, 2025, following the receipt of a petition for voluntary annexation of property owned by 614 Old Honeycutt, LLC, property containing a total of approximately 18.8218 acres. Recommendation – Adopt the resolution instructing the Town Clerk to investigate the voluntary annexation petition and adopt the resolution setting the public hearing for a voluntary annexation petition on April 7, 2025, for properties owned by 614 Old Honeycutt, LLC - ANX-2025-03 as presented and recommended. Resolution No. 25-1917 Resolution No. 25-1918 8C. Roadway Fee-In-Lieu – Academy Village Mixed-Use Project Purpose – To consider approval of a fee-in-lieu payment for roadway improvements related to the Academy Village Mixed-Use Project in the amount of $415,723.88. Recommendation – Approve a total of $415,723.88 as Fee-In-Lieu payment for roadway improvements associated with the Academy Village Mixed-Use Project as presented and recommended. 8D. Budget Amendment - Insurance Proceeds - Police Department - $17,799 - BA-25-20 Purpose – To consider a budget amendment recognizing insurance proceeds/restitution for additional repairs to Fuquay-Varina Police Department vehicles. Recommendation – Approve Budget Amendment BA-25-05 as presented and recommended. 8E. Surety/Bond - Carolina Gardens Subdivision - Road Improvements - Del Webb Gardens Drive connection to NC Hwy 55 - $109,937.50 Purpose – To consider a surety request to delay the installation of road improvements of Del Webb Gardens Drive connecting to NC 55 Hwy within the Carolina Gardens Subdivision to coordinate the timing of the work with the NCDOT Project R-5705 for the widening of NC 55 Hwy, in the amount of $109,937.50.  Recommendation – Approve the underlying agreement and acceptance of a surety for the Carolina Gardens Subdivision road improvements for the Del Webb Gardens Drive connection to NC Hwy 55 in the amount of $109,937.50 as presented and recommended, subject to Town Attorney review as to form. 8F. Special Event Application and Amplified Sound Permit Request – National Day of Prayer – May 1, 2025 Purpose – To consider approval of a special event application and amplified sound permit for the National Day of Prayer event, scheduled for May 1, 2025. Recommendation – Approve the special event application and amplified sound permit request for the National Day of Prayer event scheduled for May 1, 2025, as presented and recommended. 8G. Special Event Application and Amplified Sound Permit - First Fridays - Downtown - April 4, 2025 – March 6, 2026 Purpose – To consider the Special Event Application and Amplified Sound Permit request for the First Friday's event in Downtown April 4, 2025 – March 6, 2026. Recommendation – Approve a Special Event Application and Amplified Sound Permit request for the First Friday’s Event in Downtown April 4, 2025 – March 6, 2026, as presented and recommended.  A motion was made to approve all Consent Agenda Items 8A- 8G. MOTION Commissioner Wunsch SECOND: Commissioner Haynes MOTION RESULTS: Passed Unanimously (4-0) ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT 9A There were no items removed from the Consent Agenda for separate consideration. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS 10A Public Service Center Phase II - CMAR Contract Award, Project Ordinance Amendment (POA-25-25), and Budget Amendment (BA-25-25) - Edifice General Contractors Purpose – To consider approval of an agreement for Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) services with Edifice General Contractors and an associated project ordinance amendment and budget amendment. Staff Comments — Public Works Director Tracy Stephenson entered the agenda abstract and supporting documents for this agenda item into the town's official record. He then provided information about the agenda item by making the following remarks. The Town Board previously approved the selection of Edifice General Contractors to provide Construction Manager At Risk (CMAR) services for the Public Service Center Phase II project and instructed staff to negotiate scope and fee for the services. The proposed contract, a copy of which was provided with the agenda abstract for reference, defines a scope of services that includes the following pre-construction components: schematic design, design development, construction documents, pre- qualification of trade contractors, public bid process, and providing the Town with a guaranteed maximum price. This approach proved to be beneficial in informing design development and construction bid document development for the Hilltop Needmore Town Park Community Center project, and played a large role in the Town's ability to deliver a larger program scope and quality facility, on schedule at a competitive cost. The proposed fee for the scope is $112,300 and includes an allowance of $10,000 for site testing and investigations during pre-construction services. It is important to note that once the Public Service Center Phase II project is bid, the CMAR will establish and present a GMP (Guaranteed Maximum Price). If the Town is accepting to the GMP provided by Edifice General Contractors, the overall fee paid for construction management services will be 5% of the GMP, and a contract amendment will be required to reflect final project scope and milestone dates. This rate is consistent with industry norms for CMAR services for public projects of similar scope. The proposed budget amendment and project ordinance amendment appropriate funding for the project from General Fund fund balance and Utility Operating fund balance. Management and staff recommend authorizing the Town Manager to execute the Agreement reflecting the negotiated scope and fee agreement subject to the Town Attorney review as to form, and approval of the associated budget amendment and project ordinance amendment. This action will facilitate the efficient and effective design and future construction of the Public Service Center Phase II expansion, and for that reason it is in the best interest of the public. The proposed contract fee for the required preconstruction services is $112,300 and includes $10,000 for allowances/contingencies. The Public Service Center Expansion project is funded 2/3 from the General Fund and 1/3 from the Utility Operating Fund, since it will serve Parks and Recreation Maintenance, Public Works, and Public Utilities operations. BA-25-25 recognizes an additional $112,300 comprised of $74,867 from  the General Fund fund balance and $37,433 from the Utility Operating fund balance. POA-25-25 amends the existing project ordinance to add $112,300 to the original $1,586,200 design budget for a final design/preconstruction services figure of $1,698,500. Discussion— Mayor Massengill cited the successful completion of the Community Center North project, which finished ahead of schedule and below budget, as a model for the upcoming Public Service Center project, emphasizing the Town Board's expectation that this new initiative will also be delivered on time and within budget. Recommendation – Authorize the Town Manager to execute the Agreement for Construction Manager at Risk Services with Edifice General Contractors (a standard AIA contract) as presented and recommended, subject to approval by the Town Attorney as to form, and approve Budget Amendment BA-25-25 and the associated Project Ordinance Amendment POA-25-25 as recommended and presented by management and staff. Ordinance No. N-25-14 MOTION: Mayor Pro-Tem Gardner SECOND: Commissioner Haynes MOTION RESULTS: Passed Unanimously (4-0) 10B Design Contract Award, Budget Amendment, and Project Ordinance Establishment - Lincoln Heights Pedestrian Improvements Project - Purpose – To establish a project ordinance, approve a budget amendment, and authorize the Town Manager to enter into an agreement with Kimley-Horn and Associates for the Design of the Lincoln Heights Pedestrian Improvements Project, subject to the Town Attorney’s review to form. Staff Comments — Engineering Director Matt Poling entered the agenda abstract and supporting documents for this agenda item into the town's official record. He then provided information about the agenda item by making the following remarks. The Town has been awarded funding for the Lincoln Heights Pedestrian Improvements Project through the Federal Highway Administration's (FHWA) Local Administered Projects Program (LAPP) for Fiscal Year 2025-2026. This grant will support right-of-way acquisition and construction work. The project aims to enhance connectivity along Bridge Street by installing approximately 3,000 feet of new sidewalks, crosswalks, curb and gutter, and storm drainage. These improvements will provide better access and safe pedestrian pathways to key areas in the Lincoln Heights area, benefiting local residents and students. The Town will fund the design and engineering costs for the project and has selected Kimley-Horn and Associates as the project's designer from the Town's On-Call contracts list. The project is estimated to begin right-of-way acquisition in early 2026 and construction in late 2026. Town Staff recommends establishing a Project Ordinance, approving Budget Amendment (BA-25-21), and authorizing the Town Manager to enter into an agreement with Kimley-Horn and Associates for design/engineering services, subject to the Town Attorney's review to form. The Lincoln Heights Pedestrian Improvements Project has an estimated total cost of $3,884,245. The Town has planned to fund the design phase at $327,000, which will be paid from a combination of sources. $150,000 from the Engineering Department's Miscellaneous project funds will be transferred to the Capital Projects Fund, and $177,000 from the General Capital Reserve - Transportation Fee-in-Lieu Reserve. The project budget of $327,000 is established for design by the proposed Project Ordinance and Budget Amendment. Additionally, the project was recently awarded $2,845,796 (80%) in Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) funding through the Local Administered Projects Program (LAPP) for FY 2025-2026. This award is contingent upon a required Town match of $711,449 (20%). The NCDOT/CAMPO agreement and a project ordinance amendment will be brought to the Town Board later this year for the LAPP project, which will fund right-of-way acquisition and construction activities. Discussion— Mayor Massengill highlighted the project's significant achievement in securing substantial grant funding, while also noting its strategic value in providing connectivity between numerous neighborhoods and an existing school, which already experiences high pedestrian activity, thereby enhancing overall walkability and community accessibility. Recommendation –1) Establish a Project Ordinance and approve Budget Amendment (BA-25-21) and 2) Authorize the Town Manager to enter into an agreement with Kimley- Horn and Associates for the design and engineering of the Lincoln Heights Pedestrian Improvements Project, subject to the Town Attorney’s review to form. Ordinance No. N-25-15  MOTION: Commissioner Haynes SECOND: Commissioner Adcock MOTION RESULTS: Passed Unanimously (4-0) 10C Municipal Supplemental Funding Agreement - BL-0022 Downtown Varina Pedestrian Improvements Project Purpose – To approve a project ordinance amendment and budget amendment and authorize the Town Manager to enter into a Municipal Supplemental Funding Agreement with the North Carolina Department of Transportation for the BL-0022 Downtown Varina Pedestrian Improvements project. Staff Comments — Engineering Director Matt Poling entered the agenda abstract and supporting documents for this agenda item into the town's official record. He then provided information about the agenda item by making the following remarks. The Town was awarded grant funding to improve roadway and pedestrian facilities along Ransdell Road and North Street in FY 2021 - 2022. The project will include approximately 4,000 feet of new sidewalks, crosswalks, curb and gutter, and storm drainage. These improvements will enhance connectivity, providing better access to key areas such as Fuquay-Varina High School and benefiting the local community and students. The construction contract was advertised on October 31, 2024, with bids publicly opened at the John W. Byrne Municipal Building. Hollins Construction Services, Inc. submitted the lowest responsive and responsible bid of $1,882,867. Construction is anticipated to commence in March 2025, with project completion expected by March 2026. The original budget for this project was $1,457,490. Due to NCDOT delays and increased project costs, the project experienced a cost increase of $1,800,000, necessitating additional Town funding, which the Town Board approved on January 6, 2025. To mitigate the impact on the project budget, Town staff applied to NCDOT/CAMPO for additional funding to cover the $1,800,000 increase. CAMPO awarded the Town $900,000 in supplemental funding, requiring a $900,000 match from the Town. The combined original and supplemental funding of $2,065,992 in Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) funds (LAPP) and $1,191,498 in Town match brings the total funding to $3,257,490 and will cover all project costs. Town staff recommends approving the project ordinance amendment and budget amendment and authorizing the Town Manager to enter into a supplemental funding agreement with NCDOT to accept the additional funds. Town staff recently secured $900,000 in supplemental funding from an NCDOT cash match, requiring a Town match of $900,000. The additional project cost of $1,800,000 was previously appropriated by the Town Board in January 2025, and this action recognizes $900,000 in supplemental funding from NCDOT/CAMPO and reduces the Town’s South District Fee in Lieu account appropriation by the same amount. The project budget of $3,257,490 does not change. Discussion — Mayor Massengill noted that the project benefited from significant grant funding and will feature a connection to a local school, aligning with the town's ongoing efforts to enhance pedestrian infrastructure and walkability throughout the community, with a particular focus on safely linking schools to surrounding neighborhoods to protect children. Recommendation – 1) Approve a Project Ordinance Amendment (POA-25-22) and Budget Amendment (BA-25-22) to appropriate the additional $900,000 grant funding  and reduce the transfer from the South District Fee in Lieu account fund by $900,000; and 2) Authorize the Town Manager to enter into a Municipal Supplemental Funding Agreement with NCDOT for the BL-0022 Downtown Varina Pedestrian Improvements project, subject to the Town Attorney’s review to form. Ordinance No. N-25-16 MOTION: Commissioner Adcock SECOND: Mayor Pro-Tem Gardner MOTION RESULTS: Passed Unanimously (4-0) 10D HL-0042 Judd Parkway and Highway 55 Intersection Improvements - Supplemental Funding Agreement Purpose – To approve a project ordinance amendment and authorize the Town Manager to enter into a Municipal Supplemental Funding Agreement with the North Carolina Department of Transportation for the HL-0042 Judd Parkway and Highway 55 Intersection Improvements project. Staff Comments — Engineering Director Matt Poling entered the agenda abstract and supporting documents for this agenda item into the town's official record. He then provided information about the agenda item by making the following remarks. The Town was awarded grant funding for this project in FY 2021-2022 to provide operational improvements at the intersection of Judd Parkway and Highway 55. The project will provide for a dedicated left turn lane, dedicated through lanes, and dual right turn lanes on the eastern portion of the intersection. Improvements will include signal upgrades, new sidewalks, crosswalks, curb and gutter, and storm drainage. These improvements will increase intersection capacity and provide safety enhancements for pedestrians and vehicles. A construction contract was advertised on February 4, 2025, and bids were publicly opened at the John W. Byrne Municipal Building. S. T. Wooten Corporation submitted the lowest responsive and responsible bid of $1,908,050.75. Construction will commence in Spring 2025, with project completion expected by Fall 2026. The original budget for this project was $1,895,133. Due to NCDOT delays and increased project costs, the project experienced a cost increase of $1,800,000, necessitating additional Town funding, which the Town Board approved on February 18, 2025. To mitigate the impact on the project budget, Town staff applied to NCDOT/CAMPO for additional funding to cover the $1,800,000 increase. CAMPO awarded the Town $900,000 in supplemental funding, requiring a $900,000 match from the Town. The combined original and supplemental funding of $2,416,106 in Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) funds (LAPP) and $1,279,027 account for total project funding of $3,695,133. A Reimbursement and Settlement Agreement dated October 9, 2019, between the Town and Brookfield Properties, LLC, obligates the developer who owns property contiguous to the intersection project, Brookfield Properties, LLC, to reimburse the Town for costs related to the design and construction of the project, including Town matching funds in an amount not to exceed $1,200,000. The developer owns vacant property that will be developed in the future. The developer would be responsible for roadway improvements to this intersection once developed. Town management and staff recommend approval of the project ordinance amendment and budget amendment and authorize the Town Manager to enter into a supplemental funding agreement with NCDOT to accept the additional funds. Town staff recently secured $900,000 in supplemental funding from NCDOT cash match, requiring a Town match of $900,000. The additional project cost of $1,800,000 was previously appropriated by the Town Board in February 2025, and this action recognizes $900,000 in supplemental funding from NCDOT/CAMPO and reduces the Town’s Northwest District Fee in Lieu account appropriation by the same amount. After this adjustment, the project budget remains $3,695,133. Discussion— Mayor Massengill highlighted the project's notable financial backing, revealing that approximately 99% of the total expenses were covered by external sources, including grants and contributions from developers, significantly minimizing the town's financial burden. Recommendation – 1) Approve a Project Ordinance Amendment (POA-25-23) and Budget Amendment (BA-25-23) to appropriate the additional $900,000 in grant funding and reduce the transfer from the Northwest District Fee in Lieu account fund in the same amount, and 2) Authorize the Town Manager to enter into a Municipal Supplemental Funding Agreement with NCDOT for the HL-0042 Judd Parkway and Highway 55 Intersection Improvements project, subject to the Town Attorney’s review to form. Ordinance No. N-25-17 MOTION: Commissioner Haynes SECOND: Commissioner Adcock MOTION RESULTS: Passed Unanimously (4-0) 10E HL-0027 Sunset Lake Road Widening Phase II - Supplemental Funding Agreement Purpose – To approve a project ordinance amendment, budget amendment, and authorize the Town Manager to enter into a Municipal Supplemental Funding Agreement with the North Carolina Department of Transportation for the HL-0027 Sunset Lake Road Widening Phase II. Staff Comments — Engineering Director Matt Poling entered the agenda abstract and supporting documents for this agenda item into the town's official record. He then provided information about the agenda item by making the following remarks. The Town was awarded grant funding to improve roadway and pedestrian facilities along Sunset Lake Road in FY 2021 - 2022. This current phase of the Sunset Lake Road Widening Project is the second phase of the Sunset Road, Purfoy Road, and Main Street Improvements Project, approved by the Town Board as part of the Town's 2015 Transportation Bond Program. The first phase of this project was completed in 2017 and consisted of placing concrete medians along US Highway 401, Sunset Lake Road, and Purfoy Road. The first construction phase was delivered under budget due to the Town's ability to successfully coordinate with NCDOT during their resurfacing of US Highway 401. The first phase of improvements alleviated the congestion at the intersection, but further improvements are necessary to address existing traffic issues and mitigate future traffic problems related to the Town's growth. Phase II of this project will provide additional travel lanes across the Norfolk Southern Railroad and improve traffic configurations along Sunset Lake Road at the US Highway 401 and N Broad Street intersections. Construction is anticipated to commence in December 2025, with project completion expected in 2027. The original budget for this project was $1,640,259. Due to NCDOT delays and increased right-of-way costs, the project experienced a cost increase of $1,800,000, necessitating additional Town funding. To mitigate the impact on the project budget, Town staff applied to NCDOT/CAMPO for additional funding to cover the $1,800,000 increase in right-of-way costs. CAMPO awarded the Town $900,000 in supplemental funding, requiring a $900,000 match from the Town. The combined original and supplemental funding of $2,212,207 in Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) funds (LAPP) and $1,228,052 in Town match brings the total funding to $3,440,259 and will only cover increased costs associated with right-of-way acquisition. After the project is advertised and awarded, Town staff will apply to CAMPO for additional FHWA LAPP funding to cover increased construction costs. Town staff recommends approving the project ordinance amendment and budget amendment and authorizing the Town Manager to enter into a supplemental funding agreement with NCDOT to accept the additional funds. Town staff recently applied to NCDOT/CAMPO seeking additional funds and successfully obtained an additional $900,000 in funding from these agencies. The additional $900,000 funding from NCDOT/CAMPO must be matched by Town funding in the same amount. The attached project ordinance amendment and budget amendment appropriates funds from the Town’s General Fund in the amount of $900,000 and recognizes the additional $900,000 in FHWA-LAPP grant funding. After this adjustment, the project budget will increase to $3,440,259. Discussion— There was no discussion from members of the Town Board regarding this matter. Recommendation – 1) Approve a Project Ordinance Amendment (POA-25-24) and Budget Amendment (BA-25-24) to appropriate the additional $900,000 grant funding  and provide a match from Town’s General Fund in the same amount, and 2) Authorize the Town Manager to enter into a Municipal Supplemental Funding Agreement with NCDOT for the HL-0027 Sunset Lake Road Widening Phase II, subject to the Town Attorney’s review to form. Ordinance No. N-25-18 MOTION: Commissioner Wunsch SECOND: Mayor Pro-Tem Gardner MOTION RESULTS: Passed Unanimously (4-0) 10F Financing - New Fire Engines Purpose – To consider the installment financing for the purchase of four (4) 2024 Spartan Fire Engines. Staff Comments — Assistant Town Manager Mark Matthews entered the agenda abstract and supporting documents for this agenda item into the town's official record. He then provided information about the agenda item by making the following remarks. During February 2025, Town staff with the assistance of Davenport Public Finance (the Town's Financial Advisor) sent an RFP to over 50 financial institutions for a 4-year financing. The Town secured 11 bids with interest rates ranging from 3.51% to 4.69%. It should be noted that some proposals contained specific financing terms and conditions that could limit the financial flexibility of the Town with respect to management of the Town's overall financial portfolio, including prepayment penalties and/or restrictions on the issuance of other debt. For this reason, Davenport Public Finance and Town Management and Staff reviewed all proposals to identify the best overall terms for the Town. The lowest borrowing rate and borrowing cost offered was Pinnacle Financial Partners at 3.51%, with comparably better call provisions than most other proposals. However, Davenport and Town Management and Staff are recommending the First National Bank non-bank qualified proposal for the fire engine financing. Although First National Bank did not provide the lowest overall rate, the Town has an existing relationship with the bank and has finalized and executed a license agreement memorializing the continued local business relationship with First National Bank, specifically with respect to the use of property for parking of Town vehicles. The net difference in borrowing cost of approximately $31,000 on this loan over four years is justified when weighing the benefit of parking over a five-year period. For these reasons, Town management and staff recommend awarding the installment purchase agreement to First National Bank and authorizing the Finance Director to execute financing documents as presented and recommended. The Town solicited proposals for the purchase of four (4) Spartan Emergency Response Pumper Fire Engines at a total cost of $3,891,964 from Atlantic Coast Fire Truck LLC. The Town received a State legislative grant with the assistance of Representative Erin Paré in the amount of $856,000, which covers the majority of the cost of one fire engine. Additionally, the Town will use the FY 2025 Debt Service Budget amount of $803,648 budgeted for the first debt payment on the Fire Engines this year to reduce the borrowing cost. The total proposed borrowing amount is $2,276,000 for a term of 3.5 years (4 fiscal years) at an interest rate of 4.25% and a debt service payment of approximately $619,000 each fiscal year, with the first debt payment due November 1, 2025. This debt payment is identified in the Town's Five-Year Plan and will be included in the FY 2026 Recommended Budget. Discussion— Mayor Massengill extended his sincere appreciation to Representative Erin Paré for securing crucial funding that had a profound impact on the project, yielding a remarkable cost savings of nearly 25%. He also praised town staff for their tireless work ethic and unwavering commitment to successfully delivering the project. Mayor Massengill invited the community to join in the excitement as the Fire Department welcomes its new fire engines at a Push-In Ceremony, taking place on Thursday, April 10th at 5:00 pm at Fire Station No. 1. Following the ceremony, he encouraged everyone to stick around and enjoy a fun-filled evening at the FM2FV Concert, making for a great night out in Fuquay-Varina. Commissioner Adcock asked to be recused, citing a potential conflict of interest perception stemming from his professional affiliation with First National Bank. MOTION: Mayor Pro-Tem Gardner SECOND: Commissioner Wunsch MOTION RESULTS: Passed Unanimously (3-0) Recommendation – Award the installment purchase agreement to First National Bank and approve the attached resolution authorizing the Finance Director to execute financing documents as presented and recommended. Resolution No. 25-1920 MOTION: Commissioner Wunsch SECOND: Commissioner Haynes MOTION RESULTS: Passed Unanimously (3-0) OTHER BUSINESS 11.A Manager’s Report Town Manager Adam Mitchell gave the following additional updates: o Engineering – The Engineering Department has secured an additional $2.9 million this fiscal year in supplemental funding. These funds will be used to address cost overruns on existing projects. Additionally, the CAMPO Executive Board (Mayor Massengill sits on this Board as a voting member) officially approved an 80/20 grant for the Lincoln Heights Pedestrian Improvements Project (ROW and construction) awarding the Town $2,845,797 and an 80/20 grant for the Bowling Road/South Main Street Phase I Operational Improvements (design and ROW) awarding the Town $1,098,370. o Planning – Allison Wylie completed her first two weeks at the UNC School of Government Community Development Academy. o Economic Department - Interviews of candidates for the director’s position commence next week. o Public Utilities — The Public Utilities Department had five Public Utilities team members participate in a joint emergency exercise with the EPA, NCWaterWarn, NC Emergency Management, and 75 other NC Utilities, for emergency water and wastewater event preparedness. The waterline from Willow Spring High School to Saunders Farm subdivision, along Kennebec and Maude Stewart, is in service, and the contractor is finalizing the punch list. Notifications for annual inspection of backflow devices are being sent out to commercial and residential customers with irrigation and fire protection connections. o Police Department – Three officers have advanced through the career ladder. Brooke Godwin obtained Master Officer, Ross Cooper and Joshua Hilgartner obtained Corporal. Corporal Patrick Parker is being recognized tonight at 6:30 pm by the Exchange Clubs of Wake County for his exemplary service and dedication to our community. This event is at the Cary Presbyterian Church and recognizes officers from Wake County. The Fuquay-Varina Police Department was awarded  CALEA Accreditation on March 22, 2025. CALEA Accreditation is a continuous process and serves as the foundation for a successful, well-managed, transparent, community-focused public safety agency. The Police Department kicked off the 8th session of the Citizens Police Academy on March 13, 2025. Nineteen Citizens are enrolled and attending. o Parks and Recreation - The Police Department storage building has received a CO. The new addition will provide 1,536 sq. ft. of storage. Staff are working through the final punch list items with the contractor. Banks Road Park LED ballfield lighting is almost complete; Duke Energy is scheduled to install permanent power this week. New lighting will provide additional field space for the Town's youth sports program. Since opening HNTPCC on February 4th, the department has issued 2,652 membership passes, which include annual & monthly passes for Pickleball, racquetball, open gym, fitness, indoor track, and active adult social passes (this number does not include daily drop-in fees). o Fire Department - Hosted the first two nights of the inaugural Citizens Fire Academy since the last Board Meeting with fantastic feedback. Participants enjoyed seeing the behind-the-scenes look at the department, getting their hands dirty, and getting a true feeling of the vital services the fire department provides to the community. The new Engines are scheduled to go in-service on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, and a "Push-In Ceremony" is scheduled for Thursday, April 10th at Fire Station #1 beginning at 5:00 pm to "officially" commemorate their going in-service. The Community is invited to join the firefighters in this time-honored fire service tradition. o Arts Center — The Arts Center presented Candlelight Celtic this past weekend to a full house; the next production is the Fuquay Varina Chorale's Spring concert on May 2 & 3, followed by the community theatre production Swing Time Canteen the weekend of May 9th. Summer classes and most summer camp offerings are available for registration online or at the Arts Center. The Arts Center will be working with the DUCK Lab (Development and Understanding of Children's Knowledge) from UNCG  on a project focusing on the positive benefit that dance training can have on healthy body image development in girls between the ages of 8 and 10. o Public Works— Tim Honablew has started with the Sanitation department as a Sanitation Collector/Backup Driver. o Finance – The Finance Department has been busy with the fire engine financing, working to develop a balanced budget and Five-Year Plan, and preparing to issue an RFP to evaluate options for audit services. The new Finance Director, Mark Stephens, will start with the Town on April 7th. o Communications - The 2025 State of the Town was well received on social media. The video featuring Francois, our friendly ghost from the past, reached more than 15,000 people on Facebook and had 132 reactions. On Instagram, the video had 2,300 views with 110 reactions; on YouTube, it was viewed 900 times. Good Government Files, a national publication showcasing successful government initiatives, recently highlighted Fuquay-Varina and our communications department in the article "Branding, Boldness and a Dash More: Fuquay-Varina’s Winning Formula.” The Communications Department is excited to unveil a new website design tomorrow, March 25th! It's more user-friendly, service-focused, and proudly branded with Fuquay-Varina. We will be doing a demo at the next Town Board Meeting. We expect a smooth transition, but if you spot any broken links or other issues, please let us know so we can fix them. o Human Resources —The Human Resources staff recently attended the Public Sector Human Resources Association conference. The conference provided a great educational and networking opportunity for our team. Staff earned continuing education credits toward their recertification. o IT - Downtown Varina parking lot security cameras and Wi-Fi will go live this week. Fiber finally got installed. They are working with the vendors to understand the tariff impacts on technology products. 11.B Coffee with a Cop - Carolina Gardens Clubhouse - 2120 Del Webb Gardens Drive - Wednesday April 2, 2025 - 9:00 am - 10:00 am 11.C FM2FV Concert - The Embers - Thursday April 10, 2025 - 6:30 pm - 9:30 pm - Centennial Park 11.D Easter Egg Hunt - Saturday April 12, 2025 - 10:00 am - Fleming Loop Park 11.E FVDA - Downtown Candy Hop - Saturday April 12, 2025 - 11:00 am - 2:00 pm 11.F Food Truck Rodeo - Sunday April 27, 2025 - 12:00 - 4:00 pm - Centennial Square 11.G Zoning Map Amendment - DRB Group North Carolina, LLC - 501, 509, & 517 Sunset Drive - PINs 0656755149, 0656759633, & 0656756659 - REZ-2024-12 - (FIRST READING) - (Davison) 11.H Zoning Map Amendment & Land Use Plan Amendment - Steve Hamilton - 900 & 904 W Academy Street - PINs 0656360283 & 0656269149 - REZ-2024-19 - (FIRST READING) - (Davison) 11.I Zoning Map Amendment - Wayne Mauldin, Mauldin-Watkins Surveying, PA - 629 W Academy Street - PIN 0656563866 - REZ-2025-01 - (FIRST READING) - (Davison) 11.J Town Code Amendment - Town of Fuquay-Varina - Land Development Ordinance (LDO) Amendment #29 - CTA-2025-01 - (FIRST READING) - (Davison) BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS Commissioner Harris was absent. Commissioner Adcock had no comments Commissioner Wunsch proudly announced that Fuquay-Varina is home to some of the country's top athletic talent, including Adelynn Mitchell, who has been named a high school track All-American for the second year in a row. He also recognized Sarah Strong, a collegiate basketball star from Fuquay-Varina who has earned All-American honors. He reported on his attendance at the 50th anniversary committee meeting for Fuquay-Varina High School, where organizers are seeking donations of memorabilia and items to display, and is excited to host the Town Board to speak to the students. He also participated in Fainting Goat's Annual St. Baldrick's Fundraiser on March 23rd, bravely enduring multiple pie-throwing to help raise money for children's cancer research. Commissioner Haynes expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming launch of the town's new website. He also invited the community to support a good cause by attending the Pine Acres Community Center's Fish Fry this Friday from 4:00-8:00 pm, which will benefit the summer feeding program. He recognized the outstanding efforts of an Eagle Scout from Troop 75, who recently completed a community garden project at the Pine Acres Community Center. On a legislative note, Commissioner Haynes and Commissioner Harris attended the National League of Congressional Cities conference, where they met with U.S. Senators Budd and Tillis to advocate for federal funding for critical infrastructure projects, including road improvements and water initiatives. The commissioners gained valuable insights into upcoming federal funding allocations and how they will affect local governments. Mayor Pro-Tem Gardner reflected on her attendance at the Celebration of Life Program honoring Tim Carroll, which took place at the New Hope Valley Railway and drew a crowd of over 200 people. The event was a testament to the significant impact Tim had on the community, and Mayor Pro-Tem Gardner noted that his passing will be deeply felt by all who knew him. The celebration was a fitting tribute to his life, and he will be greatly missed by the community he touched. Mayor Massengill proudly announced that the Fuquay-Varina Arts Center had been recognized with a bronze award by 5 West Magazine, sharing the honor with notable institutions like DPAC and the Town of Cary. The news has generated significant excitement among citizens, with many approaching him to express their congratulations and enthusiasm. He participated in a fun and worthy cause at the St. Baldrick's fundraising event, where he and his son Jake bravely took pies to the face to help raise funds for pediatric cancer research. The event showcased the community's commitment to supporting important causes and making a difference in the lives of children affected by cancer. The following are Mayor Massengill’s past and future events: Past Events 3/5 – Coffee with a Cop – Eggs Up Grill 3/7 – Metro Mayors Weekly Meeting 3/8 – FVDA Chili Cook-Off and Car Show – Varina Parking Lot 3/11 – FVDA Board Meeting 3/11 – Chamber Ribbon Cutting -Southeast Telephone Service 3/14 – Metro Mayors Weekly Meeting 3/15 – FVPD Polar Plunge – ClubWorx 3/17 – Wake County Mayors Association 3/19 – CAMPO Exec. Board Meeting 3/21 – Chamber Ribbon Cutting – Wynns Family Psychology 3/22 – Chamber Nex Gen Entrepreneur Day 3/24 – Chamber Ribbon Cutting – Kick the Dust Up Cleaning Services  Upcoming Events 3/26 – Black History Stakeholders Meeting 3/27 – Chamber Ribbon Cutting Staehle Media 4/2 – Coffee with a Cop – Carolina Gardens 4/4 – Metro Mayors Weekly Meeting 4/4 – En Plein Air 4/5 – En Plein Air 4/5 – En Plein Air Artist Reception 4/7 – Chamber Connect CLOSED SESSION Pursuant to N.C.G.S. 143-318.11 (a)(3) - Attorney Client Privilege, 143-318.11 (a)(4) - Economic Development, and 143-318.11 (a)(5) -Property Acquisition. A motion was made to conduct a closed session meeting at 8:14 p.m. MOTION: Mayor Pro-Tem Gardner SECOND: Commissioner Adcock MOTION RESULT: Passed Unanimously (4-0) RETURN TO OPEN SESSION The Town Board returned to the open session at 8:58 p.m. with nothing to report out. MOTION: Commissioner Wunsch SECOND: Mayor Pro-Tem Gardner MOTION RESULT: Passed Unanimously (4-0) ADJOURNMENT A motion was made to adjourn the meeting at 8:59 p.m. MOTION: Commissioner Wunsch SECOND: Commissioner Adcock MOTION RESULT: Passed Unanimously (4-0) The minutes from the March 24, 2025, regularly scheduled meeting of the Town Board of Commissioners are adopted this 7th day of April in the year 2025 in Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina. FUQUAY-VARINA, NORTH CAROLINA J. Blake Massengill, Mayor ATTEST (TOWN SEAL) Teresa Wilder, Town Clerk