Board of Commissioners

Fuquay-Varina Town Board Meeting Minutes Book - Page Fuquay-Varina Town Board Meeting April 22, 2025 J. Blake Massengill, Mayor Marilyn Gardner, Mayor Pro-Tem The Regular Meeting of the Fuquay-Varina Town William H. Harris, Commissioner Bryan Haynes, Commissioner Board scheduled for Tuesday, April 22, 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, Commissioners Bill Harris, Bryan Haynes, Charlie Adcock, and Jason Wunsch were in attendance. Also in attendance were 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. Town Manager Adam Mitchell was on family vacation. CALL TO ORDER Mayor Massengill called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm. INVOCATION AND PLEDGE Lieutenant Anthony Hodges with the Police Department provided the invocation, and Street Superintendent James Jordan led the Pledge of Allegiance. VIRTUAL MEETING PROTOCOL Assistant Town Manager Seymour 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 April 7, 2025, Town Board of Commissioners Regular Scheduled Meeting. MOTION: Mayor Pro-Tem Gardner SECOND: Commissioner Haynes MOTION RESULTS: Passed Unanimously (5-0) PRESENTATIONS 4A Proclamation - Arbor Day - April 25, 2025 Purpose – To recognize Arbor Day in Fuquay-Varina and the Town's Tree City USA achievement. Assistant Director for Parks, Grounds, and Public Buildings Chris Newsom, announced that Fuquay-Varina has earned the prestigious Tree City USA designation from the Arbor Day Foundation, recognizing the Town's dedication to tree planting, maintenance, and appreciation. To commemorate this achievement, an Arbor Day celebration is planned for Friday, April 25, 2025, at Falcon Park. The event will feature a tree-planting ceremony, which is a requirement for maintaining Tree City USA status, as well as a demonstration on proper tree-planting techniques. Additionally, he noted that town representatives will meet with students from Lincoln Heights Elementary Environmental Education Class at Carol Howard Johnson Park at noon to further promote environmental education and awareness.  Mayor Massengill shared the exciting news that the Town of Fuquay-Varina has officially been designated as a Tree City, USA community by the Arbor Day Foundation, as confirmed in a letter received by the Town. He emphasized the significance of Arbor Day and the vital role trees play in preserving the environment. To spread the word about this achievement, the Arbor Day Foundation issued a press release announcing Fuquay-Varina's new status as a Tree City, USA community. To formally recognize this distinction, Mayor Massengill then read aloud the official Arbor Day Proclamation. 4B Proclamation - National Small Business Week - May 4-10, 2025 Purpose – To recognize Small Business Week in the Town of Fuquay-Varina as May 4- 10, 2025. Mayor Massengill took a moment to acknowledge and express his appreciation to Chamber of Commerce President Dustin Williams and Downtown Development Manager Christy Famolare for their tireless efforts in promoting and supporting downtown businesses and small businesses in general, helping them to flourish and succeed. He urged residents to shop locally and support the Town of Fuquay-Varina's businesses, highlighting the importance of community involvement in their continued growth. He then officially declared his recognition of National Small Business Week by reading a proclamation, further emphasizing the value of small businesses to the town's economy and community. 4C Employee Recognition - James Jordan - Public Works Purpose – To recognize James Jordan, Streets Maintenance Superintendent, for his diligent work coordinating sales of surplus items on GovDeals. Public Works Director Tracy Stephenson commended the Town's use of the GovDeals platform, which enables the efficient sale of surplus equipment and maximizes revenue. However, managing these sales requires significant coordination across departments, exceeding the typical responsibilities of most employees. Recognizing this challenge, James Jordan volunteered to take on the task, ensuring prompt disposal of surplus items and optimizing sale values while freeing up space at Town facilities. Since assuming this role in September 2024, James has successfully managed over 55 postings, generating approximately $107,000 in sales. His efforts have included collaborating with departments, responding to inquiries, facilitating transactions, and coordinating the pickup of sold items. In recognition of his exceptional dedication and outstanding performance, management and staff would like to publicly acknowledge and thank James for his hard work. Mayor Massengill expressed his gratitude to James Jordan for his tireless efforts in advancing his career and serving the community of Fuquay-Varina. He commended James for seeking out opportunities to elevate the town's initiatives, citing his work with GovDeals as a notable example. The Mayor emphasized that both the Town Board and citizens are deeply appreciative of James' dedication and contributions to the town. Assistant Town Manager Mark Matthews emphasized that being good stewards of public assets requires a three-pronged approach to equipment management. This includes investing in new and replacement equipment, as consistently done by the Town Board, to support staff in providing effective town services. Additionally, maintaining equipment in a safe and functional condition is essential, as is surplusing it at the optimal time to maximize its value and make way for more efficient use of town resources. He acknowledged James Jordan's significant contribution to achieving these goals and thanked him for helping to leverage the Town Board's investments in equipment. 4D Employee Recognition - Police Department Purpose – To recognize police department employees for professional development achievements. Police Chief Tim Smith reported the following: Police Officer II Patrick Dercola is being recognized for recently earning the North Carolina Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Commission Intermediate Law Enforcement Certificate. • To be eligible for the Intermediate Law Enforcement Certificate, candidates must meet the following prerequisites. Hold a valid General Law Enforcement Certification, demonstrating a foundation in law enforcement principles and practices. Accumulate a requisite number of points, earned through a combination of formal education, completion of specialized law enforcement training programs, and verified experience as a sworn law enforcement officer, with points awarded based on the duration and nature of their service. By satisfying these requirements, candidates demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and experience in law enforcement, making them eligible to receive the Intermediate Law Enforcement Certificate. • Officer Dercola currently is assigned to uniformed patrol in the Field Operations Division. Corporal Daniel Look is being recognized for recently earning the North Carolina Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Commission Advanced Law Enforcement Certificate. • To be eligible for the Advanced Law Enforcement Certificate, candidates must meet the following prerequisites: hold a valid General Law Enforcement Certification, demonstrating a foundation in law enforcement principles and practices. Accumulate a requisite number of points, earned through a combination of formal education, completion of specialized law enforcement training programs, and verified experience as a sworn law enforcement officer, with points awarded based on the duration and nature of their service. By satisfying these requirements, candidates demonstrate their advanced knowledge, skills, and experience in law enforcement, making them eligible to receive the Advanced Law Enforcement Certificate. • Corporal Look is currently assigned to Community Engagement and Outreach in the Administrative Services Division. Lieutenant Anthony Hodges and Corporal Ryan Schulte are being recognized for completing the North Carolina Justice Academy’s Criminal Investigation Certificate Program. • To be eligible for the Criminal Investigation Certificate, individuals must fulfill the following requirements. Complete a minimum of 400 credit hours of specialized training, with a concentrated focus on law enforcement criminal investigations. Successfully complete all required courses, which provide a comprehensive foundation in investigative principles and techniques. Select and complete elective topics that enhance their knowledge and skills in specific areas of criminal investigation. By meeting these rigorous requirements, recipients demonstrate their expertise and commitment to excellence in criminal investigations and are awarded the Criminal Investigation Certificate.  • Lieutenant Hodges and Corporal Schulte are currently assigned to the Criminal Investigations Division. Mayor Massengill commended the individuals for prioritizing their education and for helping to make Fuquay-Varina one of the safest communities. He noted that as they progress in their law enforcement careers, they have the full support and admiration of both the Town Board and the citizens, who are grateful to have them as part of the Fuquay-Varina Police Department team. PUBLIC COMMENTS 5A Rebekah Brock, 5220 Christian Light Road, expressed her concern about Harnett County’s Board of Commissioners wanting to remove fluoride from the Harnett Regional Water System which serves the citizens of Fuquay-Varina. ITEMS PREVIOUSLY TABLED 6A No items were previously tabled for the April 22, 2025, Town Board meeting. PUBLIC HEARINGS 7A There are no public hearings for the April 22, 2025, Town Board meeting. CONSENT AGENDA 8A. Special Event and Amplified Sound Permit - Mason Jar Lager Co. - Live Band Event Purpose – To consider approval of a Special Event and Amplified Sound Permit application for the Mason Jar Larger Co. to host a live band event scheduled for Saturday, May 10, 2025. Recommendation – Approve the Special Event and Amplified Sound Permit application for Mason Jar Lager Co. Live Band event on May 10, 2025, as presented and recommended. 8B. Special Event, Road Closure, and Amplified Sound Permit Application - Fuquay-Varina Downtown Association's (FVDA) - Dinner in Downtown, Saturday, May 3, 2025 Purpose – To consider approval of a special event permit, road closure, and amplified sound permit request for the Fuquay-Varina Downtown Association’s (FVDA) 2025 Dinner in Downtown Event scheduled for Saturday, May 3, 2025. Recommendation – Approve a special event permit, road closure, and amplified sound permit request for the Fuquay-Varina Downtown Association’s 2025 Dinner in Downtown Event scheduled for Saturday, May 3, 2025, as presented and recommended. 8C. Special Event and Amplified Sound Permit - Mason Jar Lager Co. - GOUGE Wrestling - Saturday, May 3, 2025 Purpose – To approval of a special event and amplified sound permit for the GOUGE Wrestling event at Mason Jar Lager Co. scheduled for Saturday, May 3, 2025 Recommendation – Approve the Special Event and Amplified Sound Permit application for Mason Jar Lager Co. to host the GOUGE Wrestling event, Saturday, May 3, 2025, as presented and recommended. 8D. Contract Extension Amendment - McRolling Properties LLC - Local Economic Development Incentive Agreement Purpose – To consider a request by McRolling Properties LLC to amend its Local Incentive Agreement allowing for a project completion extension to August 31, 2025. Recommendation – Approve the Second Amendment to the McRolling Properties LLC Local Incentive Agreement as presented and recommended. 8E. Contract Extension Amendment - WisemanPlus Dev Co, LLC - Local Economic Development Incentive Agreement Purpose – To consider a request by WisemanPlus Dev Co, LLC to amend its Local Incentive Agreement allowing for a project completion extension to December 31, 2026.  Recommendation – Approve the First Amendment to the WisemanPlus Dev Co, LLC Local Incentive Agreement as presented and recommended. 8F. Surplus - Unit 2 - Johnston Street Sweeper Purpose – To consider surplusing Unit 2 - Johnston Street Sweeper and authorizing the sale of this item on GovDeals. Recommendation – Surplus Unit 2 - Johnston Street Sweeper and to authorize the sale of this item on GovDeals. 8G. Surplus - Unit 125 - 2005 KME Predator Pumper & Unit 128 - 2009 Pierce Contender Pumper Purpose – To consider declaration of Unit 125 and Unit 128 assigned to the Fire Department as surplus property and authorize the sale of these items. Recommendation – Approve the surplus of Unit 125 - 2005 KME Predator Pumper and Unit 128 - 2009 Pierce Contender Pumper as presented and recommended. 8H. Project Ordinance Amendment - Miscellaneous General Capital Project Allocations - POA 25-26 Purpose – To consider approval of a project ordinance amendment that transfers unused capital project funding from the Library Renovations Capital Project to support other projects with funding needs.  Recommendation – Approve Project Ordinance Amendment (POA 25-26) as presented and recommended. Ordinance No. N-25-24 8I. Budget Amendment - Fuquay-Varina Junior Woman's Club Donation - Police Department - $400 - BA-25-26 Purpose – To consider recognizing a donation received from the Fuquay-Varina Junior Woman's Club to support the police department's Child Safety Seat Program. Recommendation – Approve Budget Amendment BA-25-26 recognizing $400 from the Fuquay-Varina Junior Woman's Club as presented and recommended. 8J. Budget Amendment - Recognize Donations from Women's Club and Junior Women's Club - Fire Department - BA-25-27- $1,100 Purpose – To consider approving a budget amendment recognizing funds recently received through donations from the Fuquay-Varina Women's Club and the Fuquay- Varina Junior Women's Club. Recommendation – Approve the Budget Amendment BA-25-27 to recognize donations as presented and recommended.  A motion was made to approve all Consent Agenda Items 8A- 8J. MOTION Commissioner Wunsch SECOND: Commissioner Adcock MOTION RESULTS: Passed Unanimously (5-0) ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT 9A There were no items removed from the Consent Agenda for separate consideration. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS 10A Sewer Fee-In-Lieu Agreement - Buffaloe Run Subdivision Purpose – To consider approval of a fee-in-lieu payment agreement for gravity sewer improvements related to the Buffaloe Run Subdivision in the amount of $746,476. Staff Comments — Public Utilities Director Mike Wagner submitted the agenda abstract and supporting documents to the town's official record. He then presented the staff report, which is attached hereto. Discussion— Mayor Massengill explained the developer is installing a pump station to provide service to the subdivision and is willing to pay a fee-in-lieu to offset additional costs as it relates to maintenance, electrical and chemicals that the Town will incur to maintain the pump station once installed and operating. This arrangement offers the benefits of both options, making it a win-win situation.  Recommendation – Approve a total of $746,476 as Fee-In-Lieu payment for gravity sewer improvements associated with the Buffaloe Run Subdivision as presented and recommended. MOTION: Mayor Pro-Tem Gardner SECOND: Commissioner Haynes MOTION RESULTS: Passed Unanimously (5-0) OTHER BUSINESS 11.A Management Report Assistant Town Manager Mark Matthews gave the following additional updates: o Inspections – The Inspections Department has issued 49 NSF permit this month. Sheila Austin is taking the fundamentals of leadership class and Gary Kennedy will be taking the next class in June. o Planning – The Planning Department has streamlined the permitting process, and there are now 103 Food Trucks permitted to operate in Town. o Public Utilities – The construction on the Ennis St. waterline replacement project is scheduled to start after July 4, 2025. Construction at the Terrible Creek WWTP is currently progressing on time (January 2027) and on budget. o Fire - The inaugural Citizens Fire Academy concluded tonight with a graduation ceremony. Fourteen residents successfully completed the program, gaining valuable insight into the Fire Department's history, operations, and equipment. The Fire Department and management are pleased with the program's success and are already planning for next year's academy. Captain Chris Duncan and Engineer Hunter Hartley recently attended FDIC International in Indianapolis, the nation’s largest fire equipment and training conference. They participated in educational sessions covering the latest advancements in fire tactics, techniques, and technologies. The event also featured the largest exhibit of fire equipment and  apparatus in America, set up inside Lucas Oil Stadium. The Board’s support is appreciated in allowing fire staff to take advantage of this valuable training opportunity. Former Fire Chief Tony Mauldin will be honored at the 2025 National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service on May 4th in Emmitsburg, MD, on the campus of the National Fire Academy, a solemn event recognizing the sacrifices of the nation’s fallen firefighters. Four members of the Fire Department’s Honor Guard will proudly participate in the ceremony. The service will be live-streamed, and a link to the service will be shared on the Fire Department’s Facebook page next week. o Police Department – The police department participated in Child Abuse Prevention Month, hosted at the Southern Regional Center on April 8th. This critical awareness campaign emphasized the importance of community unity in preventing child abuse and supporting families in need. To symbolize their commitment, participants gathered at the Southern Regional Center and planted pinwheels on the front lawn. From April 13-19th, the police department and community came together to recognize and appreciate our dedicated telecommunicators during National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week. This special week highlighted the hard work and dedication of these unsung heroes who work tirelessly behind the scenes every day. As a reminder, a representative from InterAct of Wake County will be available at the police department every Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. to provide support and assistance to those experiencing domestic violence. To access these services, simply visit the police department lobby and look left, where there will be a private office to safely discuss the situation and find resources available. The police department recently participated in several events supporting the Special Olympics of North Carolina, including Cops on Top at Dunkin' Donuts and the Plane Pull at RDU Airport. These events helped raise awareness and funds for this worthy cause. o Parks and Recreation - FM2FV Concert Thursday - April 24th - Heads Up Penny – closely monitoring the weather forecast later in the week, so stay tuned. There will  be a Food Truck Rodeo on Sunday - April 27th - Love Tribe. Food Trucks that will be featured include: • Beefy Buns (classic and unique sandwiches and sliders) • Pinoy BBQ (Filipino street food) • Off the Hog (old fashioned traditionally smoked meats) • Party In a Pita (homemade Lebanese and Greek food) • Jolly's (Soul food, burgers, hot dogs, seafood, etc.) • Tombachi (sizzling hibachi favorites) • Tacos Las Gringas (authentic Mexican dishes) • GoldenKdog (Korean corndogs) • Belgian Waffle Crafters (authentic homemade Belgian waffles) • Pelican's SnoBalls (shaved ice with a variety of flavors) • Magnificent Concessions (mobile dessert specialist) 11.B FM2FV Concert - Heads Up Penny - Thursday April 24, 2025 - 6:30 pm - 9:30 pm - Centennial Park 11.C Food Truck Rodeo - Sunday April 27, 2025 - 12:00 - 4:00 pm - Varina Parking Lot 11.D FM2FV Concert - Crush - Thursday May 1, 2025 - 6:30 pm - 9:30 pm - Centennial Park 11.E Coffee with a Cop - McDonalds - 1409 N Main Street - Wednesday May 7, 2025 - 9:00 am - 10:00 am BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS Commissioner Harris expressed his pride upon receiving notification that Lincoln Heights Elementary School had been recognized as one of the top magnet schools in the nation. This achievement, he noted, is a testament to the community's dedication and perseverance. Just a few years ago, the school faced potential closure, but through a collaborative effort, local stakeholders rallied together to save it. Commissioner Harris took a moment to acknowledge the tireless efforts of three individuals who played a crucial role in keeping Lincoln Heights Elementary open: Martha Moore, Betty Rush, and Joan Burton. Their unwavering commitment and hard work were instrumental in sustaining the school, and their contributions have ultimately led to its current success. Commissioner Adcock echoed the sentiments of Commissioner Harris. Commissioner Wunsch extended his gratitude to the Parks and Recreation department for hosting a successful Easter egg hunt, as well as a sensory-friendly event that was supported by the Teen Council. He also took a moment to express his appreciation to Commissioner Haynes for his efforts in developing and strengthening the Teen Council. Additionally, Commissioner Wunsch highlighted the town's recent accolades, including being ranked among the top 15 best places to live in North Carolina by Niche, and ranking in the top 10% nationally. The town's public schools were also recognized for their excellence, making Fuquay-Varina an ideal location for young professionals. Overall, Commissioner Wunsch emphasized that Fuquay- Varina is a fantastic place to live, work, and play, offering a high quality of life for its residents. Commissioner Haynes shared his recent activities, starting with a meaningful Earth Day event where he participated in a non-native species removal effort at Carroll Howard Park. This experience not only allowed him to contribute to the community but also educated him on the harmful effects of non-native species that can harm local trees. Additionally, Commissioner Haynes attended several other notable events, including the successful Senior Service Expo, the impressive Fire Department Push-In Ceremony, and the Leviton ribbon-cutting ceremony, where he was pleased to learn about 100 job opportunities available to community members. He also took a moment to express his appreciation to management and directors for organizing a productive and informative budget workshop. Mayor Pro-Tem Gardner began by extending warm wishes for a happy Earth Day, recalling her own experience celebrating the first Earth Day in 1970 while a student at Meredith College. She then shared her enthusiasm for the recent ribbon-cutting ceremony at Leviton, where she had the opportunity to discuss with senior leaders ways to promote the 100 available job openings within the community. Additionally, Mayor Pro-Tem Gardner expressed her enjoyment of the Fire Department's Push-In Ceremony. She also took a moment to acknowledge the significant undertaking of preparing the Town's budget, highlighting its far- reaching impact on every employee, department, and ultimately, the Town Board's decision- making process. Mayor Massengill stated that there have been a lot of events and there are a lot coming up. He reported that it is exciting for Lincoln Heights to be recognized as one of the best magnet schools in the country. He thanked the Fire Department for hosting the Senior Expo event. He encouraged everyone to purchase their Dinner in Downtown tickets as that event will be held on Saturday, May 3rd. He reported that Fuquay-Varina High School will be hosting a Special Olympics event for middle school and high school aged kids next Monday and encourage everyone to attend. The following are Mayor Massengill’s past and future events: Past Events 4/8 – FVDA Board Meeting 4/9 – Chamber Business Exchange Breakfast 4/9 – Leviton Ribbon Cutting 4/10 – Fire Department Push-In Ceremony 4/10 – FM2FV Concert – Embers 4/11 – Speak at Willow Springs High School Civic Class 4/11 – Metro Mayors Call 4/11 – Chamber Ribbon Cutting InStride Foot and Ankle 4/12 – Town Easter Egg Hunt 4/12 – FVDA Downtown Candy Hop 4/15 – Budget Workshop 4/16 – Chamber Board Meeting 4/16 – Senior Services Expo 4/16 – CAMPO Exec. Board Meeting 4/17 – Friends with Wisdom – Windsor Point 4/17 – Business After Hours – Rescued Wood Rehab 4/21 – Wake County Mayors Association Upcoming Events 4/23 – FVDA Board Meeting 4/23 – Speak at Annual Special Olympics 4/23 – Speak at Youth Leadership Graduation 4/23 – Chamber Ribbon Cutting – Little Angels Clubhouse 4/25 – Metro Mayors Call 4/25 – Chamber Ribbon Cutting – Pawsitively Delicious Treats 425 – Police Department Battle of the Badges 4/27 – Food Truck Rodeo 5/1 – First Responders Luncheon 5/1 – National Day of Prayer 5/1 – FM2FV Concert – Crush 5/2 – Metro Mayors Call 5/3 – Dinner in Downtown ADJOURNMENT A motion was made to adjourn the meeting at 7:54 p.m. MOTION: Mayor Pro-Tem Gardner SECOND: Commissioner Wunsch MOTION RESULT: Passed Unanimously (5-0) The minutes from the April 22, 2025, regularly scheduled meeting of the Town Board of Commissioners are adopted this 5th day of May in the year 2025 in Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina. FUQUAY-VARINA, NORTH CAROLINA J. Blake Massengill, Mayor ATTEST (TOWN SEAL) Teresa Wilder, Town Clerk