A - Town Council Meetings

MOUNT PLEASANT TOWN COUNCIL TOWN COUNCIL MEETING Tuesday, February 13, 2018 at 6:00 p.m. Municipal Complex, Council Chambers 100 Ann Edwards Lane Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 MINUTES Mayor Haynie called the Town Council Meeting to order at 6:03 p.m. Council Members Bob Brimmer, Joe Bustos, Kathy Landing, Jim Owens, Gary Santos and Guang Ming Whitley were present. Absent: Tom O’Rourke (Excused) I. PRAYER Chaplain Doug Farmer let Council in prayer. II. PLEDGE Mayor Pro Tempore, Gary Santos led Council in the Pledge of Allegiance. III. COMPLIANCE WITH FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT Mr. Pagliarini certified compliance of the Freedom of Information Act. IV. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Mr. Santos moved for approval; seconded by Mr. Owens. All present voted in favor. V. PUBLIC HEARINGS, AWARDS & PRESENTATIONS A. A Public Hearing: A Public Hearing to receive input on a proposal to amend the Comprehensive Plan 2009-2019 (2014 Update) Future Land Use Map by changing the land use designation from Low Density Neighborhood to Commercial for an approximately 1.00 acre tract of land comprised of one parcel in its entirety and portions of two parcels, described as follows: (i) an approximately 0.07 acre  parcel in its entirety located on Melvin Bennett Road, identified by TMS No. 560-02-00-038, depicted on a plat recorded by the Charleston County RMC Office in Plat Book CE, Page 190; (ii) an approximately 0.03 acre portion of an approximately 0.11 acre tract of land located on Melvin Bennett Road, identified by TMS No. 560- 02-00-039, depicted on a plat recorded by the Charleston County RMC Office in Plat Book CE, Page 190; and (iii) an approximately 0.90 acre portion of an approximately 1.51 acre tract of land located at 1236 Melvin Bennett Road, identified by TMS No. 560-02-00-019, depicted on a plat recorded by the Charleston County RMC Office in Plat Book BA, Page 179. Mr. Ulma stated that this is a public hearing on an amendment to the Comprehensive Plan, changing the designation from Low Density Neighborhood to Commercial. He said that it is approximately 1 acre of land covering all of one small parcel and part of two parcels between Melvin Bennett Road and Bowman Road. He said that this public hearing has been advertised for this evening; however, the applicant has requested deferral to a future meeting. He said that there is an associated rezoning that has been withdrawn and the applicant will be resubmitting a different zoning case and the two will move forward and come back to Council in April 2018. Mayor Haynie stated that there are no speakers signed up to speak on the public hearing and declared the public hearing closed. B. A Public Hearing: A Public Hearing to receive input on a proposed amended Budget for the Town of Mount Pleasant for Fiscal Year July 1, 2017 through June 30, 2018. Pursuant to Section 6-1-80 of the SC Code of Laws, Public notice is hereby given that the Mount Pleasant Town Council will hold a Public Hearing on the proposed amended municipal budget for the 2018 fiscal year on February 13, 2018 at 6:00 p.m. at the Mount Pleasant Municipal Complex (Town Hall), in Council Chambers located at 100 Ann Edwards Lane, Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, 29464. Page 2 of 44  Proposed Amended FY 2018 Budget General Fund $ 85,876,907 Victim Advocate Fund 103,066 State Accommodations Tax Fund 2,383,961 Capital Fund 81,163,859 Debt Service Fund 6,870,106 Less Interfund Transfers (24,138,725) Total of all Funds $ 152,259,174 Interested citizens may view the amended budget at the Municipal Complex, Office of Administrative Services, 100 Ann Edwards Lane, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., or it may be viewed or downloaded at www.tompsc.com. Its general content is as follows: Current Amended Percentage Current Fiscal Year Revenue Change In Fiscal Year Revenue 2017-2018 Revenue Millage $149,032,504 $152,259,174 2.17% 41.0 Mills Current Amended Percentage Amended Fiscal Year Expenditures Change In Millage for Expenditures 2017-2018 Expenditures 2017-2018 $149,032,504 $152,259,174 2.17% 41.0 Mills One mill generates $868,061 as based on the total estimated assessed value of all real and personal properties within the Town of Mount Pleasant. One mill equals $1.00 per $1,000 of assessed property value. Ms. Cotov stated that this is a public hearing on the proposed budget amendment to the Town’s Fiscal Year 2018 adopted budget in the amount of $3,226,670. Mayor Haynie stated that there are no speakers signed up; therefore, he will declare the public hearing closed. Page 3 of 44  Mayor Haynie stated that it is a very eventful day and month. He said that the Town is observing Black History Month. He said that we are very proud in Mount Pleasant that Black History is one of the most important threads in the fabric of our community. He said it is reflected in our land use patterns, the Town’s culture, history, and in the Town’s zoning. He asked residents to support the events held on each Saturday of February, as he and Town Council will also be attending. He said that he would also like to remind residents that this is also a special election night to fill an unexpired Council seat. C. Recognition of Community Partners Mr. DeMoura stated that whether it is a storm, hurricane, an emergency event or other situations, which could be the construction of a public project such as the Town Hall project, it has been amazing that the Town can rely on the Community partners for support. He stated that the Town would like to recognize five of those community partners that the Town relies so much upon. Lauren Sims, Executive Programs Manager, stated that we frequently talk about the importance of community partnerships and how they enable us to work together to meet the needs of our community. She said that these partnerships are especially important when our ability to provide basic services to our citizens is challenged. She stated that she would like to recognize several community partners, who, through their support, either provided critical services to our community or enabled the Town to continue to provide those critical services in the midst of difficult situations. She stated that one of those situations is the nearly two-year construction of the new Town Hall. She said it may not appear to be a difficult situation, but consider moving half of the Town’s staff, knocking down half of the building and constructing a new building in its place and moving several hundred employees in less than a week and knocking down the rest of the old building, along with the parking lot, all while maintaining normal operations. She said the Town would not have been so successful had it not been for the support of several of the community partners. Page 4 of 44 a. Sticky Fingers – Robert Patterson Ms. Sims stated that in addition to a major construction project, there was another significant event that took place recently, such as winter storm Grayson. She said that storm dangerously impacted the region with freezing temperatures and snow. She said there were staff members on call in the newly built EOC (Emergency Operations Center), who were working 24/7 both in the EOC and across the Town continuing to provide critical services. She said it would have been far more challenging without the help of our community partners. She stated that Sticky Fingers fed all emergency personnel throughout the duration of the storm event. She said that Mr. Patterson and his team worked throughout the storm to provide and even deliver food to the Town emergency personnel who worked before, during and after the storm. b. Hibben United Methodist Church - Rev. Dr. Ray Litts, Senior Pastor; Rev. Walter Strawther, Associate Pastor; Al Bradshaw- Whittemore; Ron Bohac and Poly Graham. Ms. Sims said she would also like to recognize Reverend Doctor Ray Litts, Senior Pastor of Hibben United Methodist Church, along with Associate Pastor, Rev. Walter Strawther, Al Bradshaw- Whittemore, Ron Bohac and Polly Graham. She said that Councilwoman, Kathy Landing is also an integral part of Hibben’s congregation. She said they are recognizing the church not only for their long history of providing support to the community, but more recently for the support in opening the Hibben Emergency Cold Shelter in advance of winter storm Grayson. She said the shelter remained open throughout the event and provided refuge to people in need by offering beds, warm showers and meals to over 70 guests in the East Cooper and Charleston area. c. Cinebarre - Manny Montes, General Manager Ms. Sims stated that Mr. Montes, General Manager of the Cinebarre, was gracious enough to allow staff to park in their Page 5 of 44  parking lot every day for several months, which was very important for Town staff. She said without his support, it would have been a very difficult situation. She said he also allowed the Town to utilize the parking lot for special events on the weekends. d. Town Center Executive Offices Building – Miles Barkley, Owner Ms. Sims said that Mr. Barkley is the owner of the adjacent Town Center Executive Offices Building and has been incredibly supportive of the Town since the inception of the Town Hall project. She stated that he allowed the use of his parking lots after hours, and on weekends for special events. She said he was also very supportive when the roadway was ripped up outside of his parking lot, along with the repaving of Ann Edwards Lane. e. Sundrops Montessori School – Anna O’Quin, Owner and Dave Douglas, Principal. Ms. Sims stated that Ms. Anna O’Quin is the owner of Sundrops Montessori School. She said Dave Douglas, the Principal of the school was unable to attend. She said they have both been very supportive of the Town during the Town Hall construction project and allowed the Town to utilize their parking lots after hours to park both Town Staff and citizens. She said it also enabled patrons of the track and the recreation fields to park nearby and continue to use the track and field. She said they were also very supportive of the fencing completion. D. Longevity Awards Police Chief, Carl Ritchie, Mayor Haynie and Town Council congratulated and thanked Sergeant Kim Herring for 25 years of service with the Police Department. Planning Director, Jeff Ulma, Mayor Haynie and Town Council congratulated and thanked Robert Rogerson for 20 years of service with the Planning Department. Page 6 of 44  E. Employee of the Month Town Administrator, Eric DeMoura recognized Officer Darren Raley of the Mount Pleasant Police Department as Employee of the Month. He said on January 30th at 1:30 a.m. the Town received a distress call in Brickyard Plantation where he likely saved a life. F. Recognition of 12U State Football Champions Recreation Director, Steve Gergick, Mayor Haynie and Town Council members recognized the Mount Pleasant Recreation Department’s 12U “All Star” State Football Champions. VI. APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM THE JANUARY 9, 2018 TOWN COUNCIL MEETING AND THE JANUARY 2018 FINANCIAL STATEMENT. Mr. Santos moved for approval; seconded by Ms. Whitley. All present voted in favor. VII. CORRESPONDENCE AND PUBLIC STATEMENTS Barry Wolff, 1468 Pocahontas Street, stated that the medians on the Coleman Boulevard have been a topic of discussion for quite some time now. He said it was revisited May 2016 which was defeated by a 5-4 vote. He said the placement of the median in front of the Boulevard should have taught the Town a lesson. He said people dart across the street to get to Starbucks, it costs money for the Town to maintain them, and they can also be a hinderance to emergency vehicles. He said his sadness is not about the medians but comes out of the course of events that happened at the recent Council retreat. He said Councilman Bustos made a motion; seconded by Mayor Haynie to remove the medians from the project with the approval of the DOT and the motion was defeated by a 6-2 vote. He said if the six councilmembers did not like the idea of an up or down vote, why didn’t they change the motion before the vote. He said that he has seen the correspondence from SCDOT regarding the medians and sees a great deal of “could jeopardize or could result in” language, but never saw the actual cost attached to the change. He said that he fears he is looking at a body that in many ways seems on the verge of tearing itself apart, words he would have never thought he would speak after the 2017 elections. He said many Page 7 of 44 people, both inside and outside of Council Chambers worked really hard since early 2015 to get this Council elected. He said the job is not to let petty politics, alliances, foolish pride and hurt feelings interfere with the job. He asked Council to do the job. Penny Bagwell, 41 Vincent Drive, said that she would like to address the Coleman Boulevard Revitalization project. She said that a handout was passed out a few months ago with the illustrations and diagrams. She added that she studied it very carefully and noticed that on Simmons Street, from the second entrance into Moultrie Shopping and on down to the Boat Landing is going to be one way. She did not know if the residents of Rue De Muckle knew that they will no longer be able to turn left onto Simmons. She said it will also be difficult for Moultrie Shopping Center to only have one entrance in and out from Simmons Street behind the Bank. She said at the bottom of the diagram it said that “this traffic pattern would be determine by the contractor with approval from DOT and the Town of Mount Pleasant”. She urged Town Council not to make Simmons Street one way past the first entrance to Moultrie Shopping Center. Jimmy Bagwell, 41 Vincent Drive, stated that he is also here to speak about the Coleman Boulevard plan. He said he spoke two weeks ago at the Council Retreat at the Visitors Center and expressed his opposition to the introduction of the raised medians, as he believes many people in the Town are. He said at that meeting, Mr. George Brewer, part owner of the Moultrie Shopping Plaza and Mr. Harry Gregorie, owner of GDC, were very concerned about this. He said that both gentlemen asked him to express their concerns about the landscaped medians. He said Mr. Brewer said that if the medians were introduced, his property value would be reduced by 10% and so would other business owners along Coleman Boulevard. He said they had two appraisals done that showed this was the case. He said that the landscaped medians will be a real detriment to businesses on Coleman. He stated that he is speaking this evening as a member of the Save Shem Creek Corporation, where he is Chairman of the Board. He added that two days ago, they started a petition that was asking this Town Council to remove the Page 8 of 44 landscaped medians and return Coleman Boulevard, after the drainage has been completed, to its former condition with the turn lanes intact. He said since 2:00 p.m. Sunday, they have obtained 1,600 signatures on the petition, which is ample evidence that the people in this Town would like Council to take another look at the landscaped medians. He said the people are asking for someone on this Council to have the courage to stand up and ask for this to be done. He said he understands it takes no more than 60 to 90 days to get a complete redesign done and if the parallel parking is going to be removed, he said it will need to be a redesign anyway. He asked Council to have the courage to ask the hard questions and represent the people of this Town. He urged Council to take a hard look at it and in the next month or two to reconsider their action. Tom Bradford, 18 State Street, Charleston, said that he is the President of the Board of Directors of Charleston Moves and would like to thank Council for their prudence and sticking to their guns on this plan. He said he would also like to thank Council on behalf of the many people who use the Battery to Beach route and the many people who will use it in the future. He said the decision on Coleman Boulevard was sound and congratulates Council. Grant Gilmore, 626 Ruby Drive, stated that he is speaking as a private citizen, not as the Director of the Community Planning Policy and Design Masters Program at the College of Charleston, or as the Director of the Undergraduate Program in Historic Preservation and Community Planning. He said that he agrees with Mrs. Bagwell’s comments and said one-way streets across the United States do not illustrate good design, nor are they a good design for moving traffic. He said with regards to the proposed medians on Coleman Boulevard, having personal experience crossing the median with his young son to go to Christ Our King/Stella Maris every morning for almost a year, it was a death trap. He said that he is in favor of any slowing down of traffic on Coleman Boulevard and believes the landscaped medians would be aesthetically pleasing and bring more beauty and interest to Coleman Boulevard. He said that it is viewed by all the citizens as a thoroughfare. He asked if it Page 9 of 44 was worth people’s lives crossing the street? Will we have a more walkable community; one where you could actually cross Coleman Boulevard with slower traffic? He added that he cycles to work every day from Mount Pleasant to downtown Charleston and he is truly scared for his life. He said any ability to slow traffic down in an impactful way he would be in favor of. Glyn Cowden, 737 Bloomfield Drive, stated that Coleman Boulevard is a boulevard, a highway to the beach and is never going to be a community gathering site – it is never going to happen. He said the medians are going to slow traffic down. He stated that he would like to take Council back to 2009 to the Comprehensive Plan. He said one of the mandates is to “protect the livability of the people of Mount Pleasant”. He said if the Town puts medians in, you will slow that traffic down and all the people coming across the Arthur Ravenel Bridge who are going to the beach will not stay on Coleman Boulevard. He said, instead, they will go into the Village and Indian Village, which will ruin the livability of that area. He asked Council not to put them up and to take the one down that is there now. Chris Donato, 1250 Fairmont Avenue, said that he is here to speak under a new business item, Item 7, which is the ordinance to amend the Dunes West Planned Development. He requested that Council consider deferring this project, so the current application may be worked on, as well as looking at other options. He said that they would request more time to work on this. He stated that if it is not an option for deferral, they would ask consideration to waive the one year waiting period as well. Laurence Mahorney, 749 McCants Drive, thanked Council for considering a traffic study for the Old Village, which is desperately needed, particularly with what is going to take place on Coleman Boulevard. He asked how many times Council Chambers has been packed with residents who speak out as a clear majority on one side of an issue, only to be ignored by representatives. He said during the recent election, voters turned out in mass to reverse this trend. He said the revitalization or urbanization of Coleman Boulevard has proven to Page 10 of 44  be unpopular in contrary to the needs and will of the citizens and the public’s good. He said this is not a matter of constitutionality or property rights. He asked this new Council to take a new approach and consider the needs and desires of the Electorate and temper their votes accordingly. He said, “no raised medians, please”. Savannah Brennan, 94 St. Margaret Street, Charleston, said she also represents Charleston Moves, thanked Town Council for their pragmatic and fiscally responsible decision to move forward with the Coleman Boulevard Revitalization Plan by maintaining the landscaped medians and the bike lane. She said they very much appreciate Council’s decision to keep the contract intact and protecting the safety of those on bicycles and on foot. She said they appreciate Council’s decision to move forward. Pat Sullivan, 1002 Plantation Court, said ditto on the comments made by Tom Bradford, Savannah Brennan and Grant Gilmore regarding keeping the landscaped medians. She said she was on the board for Charleston Moves for five years and this is where she learned how important it is to make cycling safe. She stated that on another subject, at the Public Services Committee meeting, three organizations, Surf Rider Foundation, Charleston Water Keeper and the South Carolina Aquarium gave a very compelling presentation on the staggering effects of plastic bags floating around the Town, the beaches and in our waters. She would like to encourage Town Council to please enforce a plastic bag ban here in the Town. She said when you go to a store and have a relatively small purchase, elect not to get a bag. She asked residents to use the totes that are available at all the stores and keep them in the car for grocery shopping. She said any small thing citizens can do will be good for Mount Pleasant. VIII. PLANNING – Mr. Ulma Planning Committee Minutes Planning Commission Minutes A. NEW BUSINESS Page 11 of 44 1. First Reading: An Ordinance to rezone from R-1, Low Density Residential District, to PI-2, Public Institutional-2 District, an approximately 0.90 acre tract of land comprised of two parcels and described as follows: (i) an approximately 0.880 acre parcel located at 1643 Rifle Range Road, in Mt. Pleasant Subdivision, identified by TMS No. 560-00-00-007, depicted on a plat recorded by the Charleston County ROD Office in Plat Book L17, Page 0622; and (ii) an approximately 0.02 acre parcel located on Rifle Range Road in Gregories Subdivision, identified by MS No. 560-00-00- 053, depicted on a plat recorded by the Charleston County ROD Office in Plat Book EC, Page 763. (Ord. No. 18013) Mr. Ulma stated that this property has been acquired by Mount Pleasant Waterworks to accommodate the expansion of their treatment facility in that location. He said there are two parcels which are east of the existing MPW facility near the intersection of Rifle Range and Venning Road. He stated that the Comprehensive Plan shows the existing facility as Public Institutional and PI-2 zoning has already been extended on other property over the past year. He said this would be adding the two additional parcels and zoning them PI-2 in anticipation of the plan expansion and providing buffer areas around the facility. Mr. Santos moved for first reading; seconded by Mr. Brimmer. All present voted in favor. Mr. DeMoura read FIRST READING BY TITLE ONLY. 2. First Reading: An Ordinance to amend the Town of Mount Pleasant Comprehensive Plan 2009-2019 (2014 Update) Future Land Use Map pertaining to an approximately 0.93 acre tract of land comprised of portions of two parcels, described as follows: (i) an approximately 0.03 acre portion of an approximately 0.03 acre portion of an approximately 0.11 acre tract of land located on Melvin Bennett Road, identified by TMS No. 560-02-00-039, depicted on a plat recorded by the Charleston County ROD Office in Plat Book CE, Page 190; and (ii) an approximately 0.90 acre portion of an approximately 1.51 acre tract of land located at Page 12 of 44  1236 Melvin Bennett Road identified by TMS No. 560-02-00-019, depicted on a plat recorded by the Charleston County ROD Office in Plat Book BA, Page 179, by changing the land use recommendation Low Density Neighborhood Commercial. (Ord. No. 18016) Mr. Ulma stated that these are the two requests that were heard earlier in the Public Hearing for a plan amendment, as well as the rezoning on Melvin Bennett Road. He said the applicants have asked that this item be deferred. Mr. Pagliarini stated that the deferral is requested for both items 8.A.2 and 8.A.3. Mr. Ulma stated that the rezoning has been withdrawn; therefore, it is for the Comprehensive Plan Amendment. Mr. Pagliarini clarified and stated that the deferral is only for item 8.A.2. He stated that Council has the option to accept the deferral by voting to defer. He stated that Council may also hear the matter and vote to approve or deny. Mr. Brimmer made a motion to approve the deferral of Item 8.A.2; seconded by Ms. Landing. Mr. Brimmer stated that this deferral is coming as a result of the applicant listening to the comments and concerns of Council members and also the nearby residents and is trying to accommodate those concerns. All present voted in favor of deferral. 3. First Reading: An Ordinance to rezone from R-1, Low Density Residential District, to AB-2, Areawide Business-2 District, an approximately 1.00 acre tract of land comprised of one parcel in its entirety and portions of two parcels, described as follows: (i) an approximately 0.07 acre parcel in its entirety located on Melvin Bennett Road, identified by TMS No. 560-02-00-038, depicted on a plat by the Charleston County ROD Office in Plat Book CE, Page 190; (ii) an approximately 0.03 acre portion of an approximately Page 13 of 44  0.11 acre tract of land located on Melvin Bennett Road, identified by TMS No. 560-02-00-039, depicted on a plat recorded by the Charleston County ROD Office in Plat Book CE, Page 190; and (iii) an approximately 0.90 acre portion of an approximately 1.51 acre tract of land located at 1236 Melvin Bennett Road, identified by TMS No. 560-02-00-019, depicted on a plat recorded by the Charleston County ROD Office in Plat Book BA, Page 179. (Ord. No. 18012) Mr. Pagliarini asked Mr. Ulma if this request is for withdrawal. Mr. Ulma responded in the affirmative and stated that no action is required by Council. 4. First Reading: An Ordinance providing for the annexation of an approximately 0.29 acre tract of land located at 2178 Gulf Drive, identified by TMS No. 577-05-00-005 and depicted on a plat recorded by the Charleston County ROD Office in Plat Book L, Page 73. (Ord. No. 18015) Mr. Santos moved for approval; seconded by Mr. Owens. All present voted in favor. Mr. DeMoura read FIRST READING BY TITLE ONLY. 5. First Reading: An Ordinance providing for the annexation of an approximately 2.11 acre tract of land located at 730 Darrell Creek Trail, identified by TMS No. 596-15-00-013 and depicted on a plat recorded by the Charleston County ROD Office in Plat Book BU, Page 59. (Ord. No. 18014) Mr. Brimmer moved for approval; seconded by Mr. Owens. All present voted in favor. Mr. DeMoura read FIRST READING BY TITLE ONLY. 6. First Reading: An Ordinance to rezone approximately 6.97 acres of land from CC, Community Conservation District, to R-2, Low Density Residential District at 1843 Rifle Range, identified by TMS No. 561-00-00-012, and depicted on a plat recorded in the Page 14 of 44 Charleston County ROD Office in Plat Book DA, Page 508. (Ord. No. 18004) Mr. Ulma stated that this is a rezoning request for approximately seven acres of land on the south side of Rifle Range Road and the request is to change the zoning from CC, Community Conservation to R2, Low Density Residential District. He stated that Town Council reviewed this at the January Council meeting and referred it back to the Planning Committee for additional review. He said the future land use designation is Low Density Neighborhood and limits the overall density to no more than three dwelling units per acre. He said the requested district is listed in the plan as one which can be considered in this land use plan designation. He said the request would be to change the existing CC Community Conservation zoning to R-2. He said current zoning allows lots of 12,500 square feet or larger and the minimum lot width is 80 feet with a depth of 110 feet. He said the requested zoning has lot sizes of 8,000 square feet minimum, widths of 60 feet across the frontage and the depth must be at least 90 feet. He stated that the applicant previously explained that the district would allow greater flexibility using the smaller lot sizes and reduced setbacks. The Planning Commission provided no recommendation to Council on a tie vote and the Planning Committee had no recommendation, which is when this came to Council at the last meeting. He said one of the primary items of discussion was access to the lots in the existing subdivision to the east. He said a copy of a plat was provided and showed a fifteen-foot ingress/egress easement running along the common property line adjacent to this property. When it went back to the Planning Committee, there was additional discussion and the members also did not provide a recommendation due to a 2-2 vote. He said prior to the meeting, the applicants had been working with the adjacent property owners, who submitted last week a plat that would provide for a wider/larger easement for access to the subdivision and it would move the easement on to Page 15 of 44 the property that is being rezoned, providing the ability to access mailboxes and the drive they are currently utilizing. Mayor Haynie asked if this entitles this property to any additional units if Council approves the rezoning. He asked if there would be any additional legal increase in density, and from one zoning to another, is it the same number of units allowed. Mr. Ulma stated that the starting point for the total number of lots is approximately 20. He said under the existing Community Conservation zoning, if you account for a street and the lot widths and depths, staff estimated approximately 15 or 16 total lots. He said under the R-2 zoning, which is being requested, that number could go up and they may be able to attain all 20 units. He said it is a net difference of four to five lots. Charles Salmonsen, stated that he has recorded the survey with the County. He stated that the street will have ingress/egress in perpetuity. He stated for R1 or R2 zoning, it would be approximately 20 or 21 lots. Mr. Owens asked Mr. Salmonsen if he is able to verify the lot coverage between the Community Conservation District and R-2. Mr. Salmonsen stated that he believes lot coverage is 40%, therefore the houses will be smaller, 1,500 to 2,400 square feet. Mr. Santos made a motion to approve the rezoning as described by staff. Motion fails due to the lack of a second. Ms. Whitley made a motion to deny the request Motion fails due to the lack of a second. Mr. Pagliarini stated that there is a deadline of six months to take action. He said what he would suggest or recommend is that this Council need not take action and carry over to the next agenda. He said if there is further discussion necessary and Council wishes to do this at Committee, this is also an option, or no motion is necessary to defer it to the next Council meeting. Page 16 of 44 Pat Sullivan, 1002 Plantation Court, stated that the Town’s Comprehensive Plan has this as a Community Conservation. She stated that the Town should leave the comprehensive plan alone. Additionally, there is discussion on Page Tree Lane and the need for access, which the gentleman stated has already been resolved. She said generally, she has seen the Town take into consideration all of the neighbors that are around something that a developer wants to create new housing. She drove over to Page Tree Lane and counted approximately 10 to 12 houses and she would like to know if anyone is going to speak to those other residents and ask what they think about what should happen to this road. Additionally, the people who live along this road are currently paying taxes based on an almost empty lot that has a small house on it. She said as soon as a new development is constructed, whether it is Community Conservation at 15 to 16 lots or R2 zoning at 20 lots, the surrounding residents’ taxes will increase. She stated that there is a tax sensitivity in this area. She said when you drive down this lane, all you see when you look towards this property is woods. She said the developer will come in and clear cut and the residents will no longer see woods. Mr. Brimmer asked Legal Counsel what the practical difference is between Council doing nothing on this item tonight and having a motion to deny and the motion fails. Mr. Pagliarini stated that if a motion to deny fails, the end result is that there is a six-month period for Council to take action or the request is automatically approved. Ms. Landing stated that being new to Council and having attended the various Committee meetings where this was discussed, the biggest issue is going from CC to R2. This is a request that is similar to other requests for rezoning and is what the developer desires, which is a subject that comes before Council and Council is very uncomfortable addressing. She said it has not been well demonstrated to her that this is going to benefit this area. She said that they can build the way it is now. She said this is why she Page 17 of 44  was uncomfortable seconding either motion. She needs more understanding of why Council is even doing this. Mayor Haynie stated that he is not sure why there is discussion when there is no motion on the floor. Mr. Santos said he would like to correct what Ms. Sullivan said earlier. He said he attended one of the Planning Committee meetings and David Roland was in attendance and he is a resident in that community. He said there were residents from that neighborhood who were in attendance and believes their only concern was the road. He said he does not see them present this evening. He said that Ms. Sullivan also mentioned that this was a change in the Comprehensive Plan; however, in the Planning Committee meeting, he did not hear any mention of a change in the Comprehensive Plan. 7. First Reading: An Ordinance to amend approximately 12.3 acres of the Dunes West PD, Planned Development District Ordinance, by rezoning from R-1, Low Density Residential District, to DW-C- R-1, Dunes West Covington R-1 on Bessemer Road, identified by TMS Nos. 583-00-00-003 and 583-03-00-254 through -261, -263, and -265 through -281, and depicted on a plat recorded in the Charleston County ROD Office in Plat Book L17, Page 0033. (Ord. No. 18005) Mr. Ulma stated that this is a rezoning request for approximately 12 acres of land in the Dunes West Planned Development and was the item requested for deferral. If Council chooses to defer, staff needs to be sure that Council sends this item back to the Planning Committee or if it will stay at the Council level. Mayor Haynie asked if this item is a voluntary withdrawal by the applicant or a deferral by Council. Mr. Ulma stated that Council would need to defer. Mr. Pagliarini stated that it is a request for deferral. Page 18 of 44  Ms. Landing made a motion to grant the request for deferral of this action; seconded by Mr. Santos. All present voted in favor. Mr. Ulma asked if this item would return to the Planning Committee or stay at the Council level. Mr. Pagliarini stated that the motion was to request deferral; therefore, it will stay at Council level. He stated that if the Chair or Council members wish for this item to be placed on the Committee agenda, then staff will do so. B. OLD BUSINESS 1. Final Reading: An Ordinance providing for the annexation of an approximately 1.83 acre tract of land located at 1500 Clubhouse Lane in Raven’s Run Phase I Subdivision, identified by TMS No. 561-01-00-095 depicted on a plat recorded by the Charleston County ROD Office in Plat Book BM, Page 022. (Ord. No. 18001) Mr. Ulma stated that the next three items are related. The first is to annex the property, the second is to change the Comprehensive Plan and the third is to rezone the property to R1 Low Density Residential. He said that it is within the Raven’s Run subdivision. He stated that it is existing Open Space and the request is to go to Low Density Residential. He stated that the Planning Commission recommended approval of the plan amendment and the zoning change and the Planning Committee recommended approval of all three requests. Mr. Brimmer moved for approval of final reading; seconded by Mr. Santos. All present voted in favor. Mr. DeMoura read FINAL READING BY TITLE ONLY. This Ordinance SIGNED, SEALED and DELIVERED this date. 2. Final Reading: An Ordinance to amend the Comprehensive Plan 2009-2019 (2014 Update) Future Land Use Map by changing the land use designation from Recreation Open Space to Low Density Neighborhood for an approximately 1.83 acre tract of land located at 1500 Clubhouse Lane in Raven’s Run Phase I Page 19 of 44 Subdivision, identified by TMS No. 561-01-00-095 and depicted in a plat recorded by the Charleston County ROD Office in Plat Book BM, Page 022. (Ord. No. 18002) Mr. Santos made a motion to deny; seconded by Mr. Owens. Julie O’Connor, 50 East Lake, stated that when she was at the January Town Council meeting, there was a question about whether this property could be subdivided. She said shortly after the meeting, she provided Mr. Ulma with the recorded covenants and restrictions that applied to this parcel, and it states specifically that the land covered by these covenants, which is 1500 Clubhouse Lane, shall not be further subdivided. She said that this is a recorded document. Ms. Landing stated that if Council does not allow this Comprehensive Plan change, the residents will not be able to build their home. She asked if this is the reason the property owners requested this change. Mr. Ulma stated it would depend more on the zoning itself in item #3. He stated that the plan amendment would be something Council would consider as they reviewed item #3. Mr. Santos said he spoke out at the last Council meeting against changing the Comprehensive Plan. He said there is currently a Comprehensive Plan Forum that is meeting and reviewing the Comprehensive Plan for any changes. He said that this gets out in front of them; therefore, he is not in favor of changing the Comprehensive Plan until Council has the opportunity to hear what their final plan recommendations are. He said that he spoke with Legal Counsel and although there are covenants, they can be changed. He said that if someone purchases the property, they can subdivide it. He stated that this is why he will not support this. Mr. Owens asked Mr. Ulma if it is necessary for the Comprehensive Plan to change prior to the parcel being given an R1 designation. Page 20 of 44 Mr. Pagliarini stated that amending the Comprehensive Plan is a prerequisite to the zoning change. Mr. Brimmer stated that he, like Mr. Santos, is not inclined to change the Comprehensive Plan, except in this case. He said that this is property that is in a gated community and not accessible to the public. He said that it only impacts property owners in this gated community. He said if this were a piece of property that the public had access to, he would feel differently. He stated that he will support it because of this difference. Mr. Santos stated that it is a gated community at this time but that does not mean it will stay a gated community. He said they can certainly remove the gates and build more houses back there. He stated that he is trying to look towards the future. Ms. Landing stated that a very close friend looks out onto this property and asked her to support this, because it is an old abandoned airport hanger that has been an eyesore in the middle of Raven’s Run for a very long time. She said the property owners simply want to build a nice home there. She said she does not believe this causes issues for anyone else. Mr. Owens, Mr. Santos and Mayor Haynie were in favor of denial. Ms. Whitley, Mr. Brimmer, Mr. Bustos and Ms. Landing were opposed. Motion to deny fails 4-3. Ms. Landing moved to accept the ordinance to amend the Comprehensive Plan Future Land Use map by changing it from Recreation Open Space to Low Density Neighborhood for this tract of land; seconded by Mr. Brimmer. Mr. Santos, Mr. Owens and Mayor Haynie were opposed. Ms. Whitley, Mr. Brimmer, Mr. Bustos and Ms. Landing were in favor. Motion to approve carries 4-3. Mr. DeMoura read FINAL READING BY TITLE ONLY. This Ordinance SIGNED, SEALED and DELIVERED this date. Page 21 of 44 3. Final Reading: An Ordinance to zone R-1, Low Density Residential District, an approximately 1.83 acre tract of land located at 1500 Clubhouse Lane in Raven’s Run Phase I Subdivision, identified by TMS No. 561-00-00-095, depicted on a plat recorded by the Charleston County ROD Office in Plat Book BM, Page 022. (Ord. No. 18003) Ms. Landing made a motion to pass an ordinance to zone R-1, Low Density Residential for the 1.83 acre tract of land; seconded by Mr. Brimmer. Julie O’Connor, 34 East Lake, stated that she would like to reiterate and remind Council that the zoning for this property is currently residential within the County of Charleston and has always been a privately held parcel of land and has had a residential zoning in the County. Ms. Whitley, Mr. Brimmer, Mr. Bustos, Ms. Landing, Mr. Owens and Mayor Haynie were in favor. Mr. Santos opposed. Motion carries 6-1. Mr. DeMoura read FINAL READING BY TITLE ONLY. This Ordinance SIGNED, SEALED and DELIVERED this date. 4. Final Reading: An Ordinance providing for the annexation of an approximately 0.69 acre tract of land located at 448 Gurley Street, identified by TMS No. 556-00-00-04 and depicted on a plat recorded by the Charleston County ROD Office in Plat Book T96, Page 0168. (Ord. No. 18007) Mr. Ulma stated that this is final reading for annexation. He stated that staff would like to call Council’s attention to the TMS number which should end in 004. Mr. Santos moved for approval of items #4 and #5; seconded by Mr. Brimmer. All present voted in favor. Mr. DeMoura read FINAL READING BY TITLE ONLY. This Ordinance SIGNED, SEALED and DELIVERED this date. Page 22 of 44  5. Final Reading: An Ordinance providing for the annexation of an approximately 0.64 acre tract of land located at 449 Gurley Street, identified by TMS No. 556-00-00-314 and depicted on a plat recorded by the Charleston County ROD Office in Plat Book BB, Page 067. (Ord. No. 18008) [Approved in Item #4] Mr. DeMoura read FINAL READING BY TITLE ONLY. This Ordinance SIGNED, SEALED and DELIVERED this date. IX. COMMITTEE REPORTS A. Accommodations Tax Advisory Committee (No Meeting) Report B. Bids & Purchases Committee The Committee unanimously approved the following recommendations: • Approval to enter into negotiations and, if successful, contract with Seamon Whiteside and Associates, Inc., to provide professional services for the fire and police training facility master plan. • Approval to contract with IPW Construction Group in the amount of $197,332.22 to complete the Belle Hall Elementary Queue Lane. C. Economic Development Committee (No Meeting) Report D. Education Committee Ms. Whitley stated that the Committee received a presentation by the District 1 and 2 Constituent School Boards, where they informed the Committee of their roles within the larger school Page 23 of 44  board. She said that their big project is drawing the new lines for Moultrie and there will be public meetings soon for this. E. Finance Committee (No Meeting) Report F. Fire Committee (No Meeting) G. Human Resources (No Meeting) Report H. Patriots Point Development Authority Report I. Planning Committee Report Discussion of meeting attendance for appointed boards and commissions The chairman suggested that the attendance requirements for boards and commissions listed in the zoning ordinance should be met, and failure to attend the required number of meetings should be grounds for automatic removal. After discussion, the committee voted to recommend to Town Council to amend the attendance requirements in the zoning ordinance for all boards and Page 24 of 44  commissions so that if a board member does not meet 75% attendance, unless the absence is determined to be excused by the chairman, that member would be automatically removal from the board. Information about Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU’s) and Short-Term Rental properties The chairman noted that these topics had been studied in the past, but that they were still of concern to citizens of the town. The committee discussed various aspects of these activities, like business licenses, enforcement, and ways to regulate them more closely. The committee asked staff to begin a study of the various issues associated with ADU’s and short-term rentals, review other communities’ ordinances, and to provide a report and recommendations within 90 days. An interim update was requested in 60 days. Report on Comprehensive Plan update Planning staff reported that the Town held its second Comprehensive Plan Open House on January 30, 2018. About 275 people attended (double the number at the first Open House). At the Open House, visitors could provide feedback on the draft goals and objectives developed by the Plan Forum and give input on some identified community-specific issues. The event included a presentation about the comprehensive planning process to date, as well as information on current land use and transportation data. An online survey was also launched to allow residents who couldn’t attend the Open House an opportunity to provide comments. This survey will be open until February 28. The subcommittees of the Plan Forum will now meet again to review the input from the Open House and begin identifying implementation strategies. The Plan Forum will meet again as a body on March 6, 2018 at noon. J. Police, Legal & Judicial Committee 1. Consideration of a no vaping ordinance (See Council New Business Item XI.A.2) Page 25 of 44  2. A Resolution regarding a proposed joint lawsuit by the South Carolina Environmental Law Project opposing offshore drilling. (See Council New Business Item XI.A.3) 3. Report K. Public Services Committee 1. Consideration of an Ordinance for Environmentally Acceptable Packaging and Products Mr. Owens stated that there are alternative products and packaging that are acceptable to our local recycling centers, but more importantly, the environment. He stated that we need to act soon and not leave it to our future ages. He said that we live in a beautiful place, but there needs to be a call to action if we are to maintain this natural beauty for generations to come. He asks, “if not us, who and if not now, when”. Andrew Wunderly, Charleston Water Keeper, said he is a resident of James Island, but here as the Town’s Charleston Water Keeper, who works to protect and restore Charleston’s waterways for future generations, so they can enjoy them without fear of pollution. He said we are all aware that plastic pollution is a big problem in our local waterways. He said without going through all the research from the Citadel, the Aquarium and the College of Charleston that there is approximately 7 ½ tons of plastic pollution in our waterways at any given time. He said that he does not need to tell Council or the public that plastic pollution chokes sea turtles or birds or breaks down very quickly into microplastics and works its way into the fish, shrimps and oysters that we all love to eat. He said that we all likely know that plastic pollution in our local waterways is all convenience items, such as Styrofoam containers, to go boxes, cups, single use plastic bags, straws, and all convenience items. He said that this material is a real and significant cost on our communities and waterways. For Page 26 of 44 example, last year alone, Charleston Water Keeper mobilized 1,506 volunteers to clean up the waterways. He said the value of this service provided to the community was just shy of $100,000 and that is just Charleston Water Keeper and does not consider the work that the Aquarium, Surf Rider, Palmetto Pride or countless citizens do to help every day. He said if we included this work, it would likely be close to half a million dollars or more. He said Water Keeper alone collected 14 tons of material and almost all of it was plastic. He said that this is all by design. He said the plastic pollution material is manufactured and sold cheaply, given out cheaply and discarded cheaply. He said that this forces the cost from the manufacturer onto the citizens and the local communities, like the Town of Mount Pleasant. Caroline Bradner, 328 East Bay Street, stated that she is the Land, Water and Wildlife Manager for the Coastal Conservation League and wanted to thank Town Council for taking up this issue, recognizing all the great points that Mr. Wunderly has made. She said that plastic pollution is a huge problem and does not go away in the environment. She said the only thing we can do is to limit the amount of this product that is getting into the waterways and into the landfills and breaking down into microplastics that we all consume when we eat local food. She said what she would like to touch on is that there is often talk that some type of voluntary resolution might be the first step. She said that Sullivan’s Island has a voluntary resolution at this time and while Folly Beach’s post ordinance average of plastic bags picked up is now seven, theirs is 69. She said that the Town needs to take action and steps in order to see results. She said many local businesses have already taken these steps to be good stewards of the environment and good members of the community. She stated that a survey in 2016 by the Plastic Bag Minimization Committee, which was a committee of diverse groups coming together to include the Chamber of Commerce, Low Country Local First, conservation groups, came back with Page 27 of 44 94% support from citizens to reduce plastic pollution and 83.8% for a plastic bag ban. She thanked the Town for their leadership. Kelly Thorvalson, South Carolina Aquarium, stated that single use plastic bags are frequently the focus of legislation targeting reduction in plastic waste in the marine environment. In many coastal regions, this is deemed necessary, because plastic bags have been identified as the second most harmful item to marine life, after ghost fishing gear. Along with fishing gear and balloons, plastic bags post the greatest entanglement threat to sea birds, sea turtles and sea mammals and were identified as the top two items posing the greatest risk for ingestion. She said that these are huge issues for South Carolina’s marine life. Plastic bags were the most frequently recorded item found within the digestive tracts of deep diving whales due to confusion with cephalopod prey. She said the South Carolina Aquarium is experiencing first hand the ingestion of these plastic items in our sea turtle hospital where more turtles than ever are being treated for having ingested plastics. She stated of 20 turtles admitted with plastics in their GI track over 17 years, 15 of those have just been in the last three years and the majority of these samples are consistent with single use plastic bags. She stated that the lightweight design of plastic bags mean that they can be transported extremely long distances by winds, waves and currents and were the top three debris items found at ocean depths ranging from 35 to 45 hundred meters. She stated that their staff has been collecting litter two times a month in the 25 yards of beach next to the aquarium for approximately one year. The litter data is logged into a citizens’ science app and in this short time, over 15,000 pieces of Styrofoam have been removed, which is a number that should alarm us all. Kate Dittloff, Surf Rider Foundation, Charleston Chapter, and said that she came to provide Council with a break down to prove that ordinances do work. She stated that Folly Beach is an ideal case study and their organization has been sweeping Folly Page 28 of 44 Beach for many years. She said what they discovered “pre- ordinance” with Folly Beach is after five sweeps of the beach, they found a total of 131 plastic bags, and “post-ordinance”, they found a total of 28 plastic bags. She said this is a drastic reduction in the number of plastic bags found. She said if you take an average of all the sweeps they have accomplished pre and post ordinance on Folly, the average number collected pre- ordinance was 33 bags and post ordinance, was 7 bags, which is a massive reduction. She stated that their foundation has adopted a portion of the highway by Ben Sawyer Boulevard and have an average of 40 to 50 volunteers at least once a month, picking up trash, and when municipalities locally that have not passed an ordinance and have nothing in place to address this issue, such as the Town of Mount Pleasant, they find on average 38 plastic bags, just on the Mount Pleasant side. She said in Charleston, the average number they find in the city-proper is 178 plastic bags. She said on Sullivan’s Island, where they have a voluntary Resolution, they still counted an average of 70 plastic bags. She said while it is good to educate the public, unless the Town makes it a requirement, there will not be a reduction in plastic bags. She stated that she has a breakdown of all the data. Caitlin Hamer, 11 Joyce Avenue, stated that she is here to express her support for the ordinance for environmentally acceptable packaging products. She thanked Council for taking a position to discuss this issue. She said that it is very important and critical to preserve our natural environment in order to maintain the great quality of life we have in Mount Pleasant and the lowcountry, in general. She said that we are fortunate to live in this wonderful community near the ocean and people move here just to live near the ocean. She spends a great deal of time walking on the beach, paddle boarding on Shem Creek, as well as fishing in the harbor. She said when she is out on the water, she sees a great deal of debris, most of which are single use plastic bags. She said this plastic does not disappear and ends up in the storm drain system, creeks, rivers and the ocean. She said Page 29 of 44 as plastics degrade, the Styrofoam containers break down into small pieces into microplastics and these readily enter the food chain, not only affecting animals, but humans. She stated that she said ‘no, thank you” to toxic polymers in the local shrimp, seafood and oysters that she loves to eat and thinks Council should, too. She said it is our job to protect the environment we live in for ourselves and future generations. She believes Council should follow the lead of Folly Beach, Isle of Palms and many other cities around the country and pass this ordinance. She thanked Council for their hard work in investing in the Town’s future by considering this important issue. Alyse Campaign, 43 Vincent Drive, is here to express her strong support for this ordinance that is addressing single use plastic packaging. The ordinance itself notes the prevalence of the plastic litter in the Town. She said this pollution is affecting our community but is reaching a crisis point globally. It is cheap, light, durable, but takes 1,000 years to break down and is choking our wildlife, disrupting our food chain and it is time to take action. She added that the ordinance offers a sensible approach to tackling this issue and it is great to see the community leading this issue and joining the other eight communities that are stepping up in South Carolina. Reducing waste should always be the first step of the reduce, reuse, recycle. She said minimizing the single use plastics are also going to save the Town money in taxpayer dollars in terms of reducing the waste management fees, the cleanups and the storm drains that get clogged by the bags and litter that causes issues with the stormwater system. She particularly supports the inclusion of the provisions that encourage businesses to make straws, condiments and cutlery optional, instead of inclusive and to incentivize consumers to bring their own containers and bags. She said on two unrelated matters, she would like to thank Council members who supported the Coleman Revitalization. She said she is a nearby resident and it brings her great joy that it will bring improved safety access and bike-pedestrian Page 30 of 44 improvements. She would like to express her strong support for the Resolution that Council will address under Council New Business regarding opposing the seismic drilling. Kent Griffin, 840 Pitt Street, stated that he wanted to express his appreciation to Council for considering the effort to protect the environment. He said that he heard a great deal of discussion about the collective efforts to preserve the Town’s quality of life and sees a great deal of plastic debris in and around his neighborhood, out in the water and in the marsh and without Council’s support, the Town will not be able to take the first step forward to reducing plastics in the community. He said that this is critically important and applauds Council. He said that he has looked at the data and in California, they have been able to cut their plastics in half since the ban and has been an easy first step forward. Janna Davis, Manager of the Surf Rider Ocean Friendly Restaurant Recognition Program, said that this program recognizes restaurants that implement environmentally friendly practices, such as not using plastic bags or Styrofoam containers. She became involved in attempting to work at the core of plastic pollution, because it was affecting her day to day enjoyment of Mount Pleasant. She could not go for a walk or run down Ben Sawyer or the Pitt Street Bridge and step over the plastic pollution any longer. She said they could be out there every day working and cleaning up the debris, but we must work at the core of the pollution. She appreciates all of Council’s efforts as we move forward to try to change and improve the Town. Adelle Fisher, 1216 Winwood Court, said she would like to express her appreciation to Council for looking into this situation and possibly going to approve an ordinance to reduce plastic pollution. She added that she walks every day with her husband for the past ten years near waterways and are always disappointed when finding plastic. She said they clean up as much as possible and said whatever Council is able to do to Page 31 of 44 address this issue and be leaders in our county, state and country is appreciated. Mike Laurie, 165 Historic Drive, said that he will provide the other side of the perspective. He said that he would argue that the trash around the community is only a tiny fraction of the responsible adults who decide in the course of their day-to-day activities that a plastic bag is appropriate for their use. He said he would also dispute the term “single-use”, because rarely in his home are plastic bags only used once. He said not only are they convenient for what is purchased at the store but are also used to pick up after his dog, dirty diapers, and keeping things dry. He said he would like Council to consider the actual uses and benefits of plastic bags that thousands of people day in and day out choose to use. He would ask Council to consider the burden that will be placed on residents because they have to use a paper bag or purchase one of the multiple use bags. He asked Council to think about the hygiene aspects. He said it almost feels like a punishment for the vast majority of the residents of the Town who have done nothing wrong and perfectly responsible with their trash. He said he would ask Council to consider the implications, holding residents accountable for the irresponsibility of a few. Mr. Owens stated that there are alternative products and packaging that are acceptable to the local recycling centers. Mr. Owens moved to approve additional consideration by Council and request that Legal staff prepare the stated ordinance and that it be reviewed by the Economic Development Committee and the Police, Legal and Judicial Committee in preparation for first reading at the March Town Council meeting; seconded by Mr. Santos. Mr. Brimmer thanked Mr. Owens for his work on this item, as he has been working on it for quite some time. He said that this is a great idea for Council to consider. He said he appreciates Mr. Owens including the Economic Development Committee and as Page 32 of 44 the Chair of that Committee, he believes that it is incumbent upon Committee to have a forum for our business community to weigh in on any potential ordinance in terms of the impact on business. He added that any ordinance that Council may pass is a better ordinance when there is inclusion of the business community, as the more partners they have, the more buy-in there is. He said he would like to provide the business community, especially the small businesses, an opportunity to weigh in. He said that they may have feedback that may make the ordinance stronger. Mayor Haynie stated that he echoes Mr. Brimmer’s comments and said as Chair of Police, Legal and Judicial, his committee would like to review this to ensure that the ordinance stands up under scrutiny. He said the ordinance as proposed, does not begin for one year. He said if Council discovers that it is not going to be legal to pass this ordinance, the Town would still have a campaign and at the end, may have an ordinance allowed by the State or may have a really good campaign. Mr. Owens stated that Council may also amend the ordinance at a later date. Mayor Haynie asked if discussions for a “Plan B” are in order, because by whatever legal means the Town has, we would like to reduce plastic pollution. Mr. Owens stated that this allows Committees to weigh in and clearly define the ordinance, and it also sends a message to our General Assembly that Mount Pleasant is moving forward with this process and would appreciate their vigilance in protecting and preserving home rule. He stated that it sends a clear and resounding message to our Legislature. Mr. Santos stated that the General Assembly only cares about Home Rule when it is election time and they are seeking votes. Mayor Haynie stated that Council members were in Columbia last week for Legislative Action Day and hosted a dinner that Page 33 of 44  evening. He said that every member of the house that represents Mount Pleasant voted to uphold Home Rule for the Town. He said that he was very proud of that. Mr. Bustos stated that while he supports this and looks forward to it going to the Police, Legal & Judicial Committee, the name of the ordinance, “an ordinance for environmentally acceptable packaging and products”, he said if this is going to be a plastic bag ban, then let’s say that it is a “plastic bag ban” instead of being vague. He hopes that the Town’s Legal team will review it to ensure the name explains what it is. He said it is important for people to know. Mr. Owens said to follow up on Mr. Bustos’ comment, the environmentally acceptable packaging products does not simply relate only to plastic bags. He said there are straws, polystyrene that need to be encapsulated into a harder substance. He said once it is reviewed, Council can make a determination on the wording. All present voted in favor. 2. Report The Committee approved the minutes from the January 2, 2018 meeting. There was one presentation given at the Public Services Committee meeting entitled “Consideration of an ordinance for Environmentally Acceptable Packaging and Products”. It provided an overview of the challenges caused by improper disposal of plastics on the environment and wildlife which generated discussion pertaining to the creation of an ordinance to address this issue. Committee recommended that the topic be forwarded to Council for consideration and if approved direct the Legal Department to draft the ordinance. Page 34 of 44 L. Recreation Committee Report The Committee recognized a Recreation employee for five years of service with the Town. The Committee discussed and approved a motion to direct staff to pursue Accommodations Tax funds for a potential 2019 public art project in Mount Pleasant. The Committee discussed involvement with the Snowden Community regarding the use of fields. Staff was directed to determine a cost estimate to repair fields and provide a draft facility use agreement to be presented at the March Committee Meeting. The Committee discussed the possibility of having a Mount Pleasant Art Walk at Alhambra Hall. The Committee was given an update on participation and activities. The South Carolina Festival and Event Association awarded the Special Events Office Best T-Shirt Awards for the Holiday Events and the Blessing of the Fleet as well as Best Digital Media for the Holiday Parade Commercial. • Friday, January 19 – A Sock Hop was held at the Park West Gym. There were 213 participants. • Sunday, January 21-Tuesday, January 23 – South Carolina Festival and Events Association presented the Best Digital Media Award at their annual conference to the Town’s Special Events Office for the Christmas Light Parade Promotional Video. The Special Events Office also received the Best T-Shirt Awards for the Blessing of the Fleet and Seafood Festival and the Holiday Weekend. • For the month of January MPRD offered 216 swim lessons. • For the month of January 158 youth and 276 adults participated in Athletic Programs. Page 35 of 44  • Senior Center current membership is 2278. • Tennis Center current membership is 426. M. Transportation 1. Approval of a Title VI compliance plan (See Council New Business Item XI.A.4) 2. Report Mayor Haynie stated that the Committee reviewed and approved for FY2019, the list of the Transportation Sales Tax and the Charleston County Transportation Committee, annual project rankings. He said the way this is accomplished is by the Transportation Committee and does not require a vote of full Council; however, he wanted both Council and the members of the public to see what is being prioritized to get our traffic managed in the Town. He said these are project rankings and requests and have not changed drastically, because we typically carry forward what was not accomplished one year to the next. He said that some of the real important items are still listed, as well as drainage improvements at Shem Creek Park and parking improvements, as well as roadside ditch restoration in Darryl Creek, and pedestrian and bicycle needs. He said there were also a number of items listed for lowering speeds or volumes on routes. He stated that the deadline is the 18th of this month to submit. He said that it did pass unanimously by the Transportation Committee. Mayor Haynie stated that another topic of discussion was US Highway 17 at Faison Road improvements and Park Avenue Boulevard at Faison Road improvements. He stated that they have started construction on the signal pole foundations and based on the schedule of construction, it should be installed by the summer of 2018. He said on Park Avenue headed towards Oceanside Academy, there will be improvements there for traffic. Page 36 of 44  Mr. Morrison stated that there was a warrant study for that signal at that location and that was the only appropriate improvement given the width of the intersection and said he did not believe they wanted to consider an all-way stop there. He said that staff will re-visit the warrant study which was updated to include projected traffic, which staff is confident will meet the warrant in order to begin preparing design plans to install the signal. N. Waterworks Commission Report O. Water Supply Committee (No Meeting) Report X. ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT Vacancies on the Commercial Design Review Board and the Historical Commission XI. COUNCIL BUSINESS A. New Business 1. Approval of the Blessing of the Fleet Beneficiaries Recreation Department’s Director, Steve Gergick, stated that for more than 30 years, the Town has coordinated with the Magwood family to put on the Blessing of the Fleet Seafood Festival and to celebrate Mount Pleasant’s rich maritime heritage and culture. He stated that over the years, several non- profits have supported the event with volunteers and have been selected as beneficiaries to receive the net proceeds generated primarily through the sale of merchandise at the event. Each year, Town Staff, along with the Magwood family reviews Page 37 of 44  applications from various organizations, considering their past involvement in the event, as well as their ability to recruit and manage volunteers on the day of the event. He stated that for the 31st Annual Blessing of the Fleet, Town Staff and the Magwood family recommend Wando High School Band Boosters and East Cooper Community Outreach as beneficiaries for this year’s event. Mr. Santos made a motion for approval, as stated by staff; seconded by Mr. Owens. All present voted in favor. 2. First Reading: An Ordinance to amend Chapter 138, “Smoking and Tobacco Products,” Section 138-03 - Definitions. (Ord. No. 18017) Mr. Santos moved for approval; seconded by Ms. Whitley. Mr. Santos said in 2007, he put together an ordinance to ban smoking in public places in the Town of Mount Pleasant, which has been very successful. He said that he would like to be able to add vaping to this as we do not know enough about the harmful effects of vaping. He said there are chemicals and there is not enough research as to their effects. He stated that he would like to add this to the smoking ordinance. Ms. Whitley stated that she would like to publicly thank Lynn and Bob Brennan who are residents of the Town. She said they are the ones who brought forth this concept of banning vaping. All present voted in favor. Mr. DeMoura read FIRST READING BY TITLE ONLY. 3. Resolution: A Resolution authorizing the participation by the Town of Mount Pleasant in Federal Court litigation by the South Carolina Environmental Law Project (SCELP) to challenge the permitting by the Federal Government of Seismic Testing and Drilling in Atlantic Coastal Waters, including waters off the South Carolina Coast. (R. 18027) Page 38 of 44  Mayor Haynie stated that we are seeing vast support for this and believes that every coastal community has approved this. He said that this does not put the Town into a lawsuit; however, authorizes and states what the Town’s intensions are. He said that according to Legal, this suit does not yet exist, but will if this is approved off the shores of South Carolina. He said that even if they could eliminate the offshore dangers, we could not accommodate the on-shore support required for this, which would drastically change our economy. He said this passed Committee unanimously and if the Town were to join the suit at that time, this would come back to Council. Mr. Owens moved for approval; seconded by Mr. Brimmer. Mr. Santos stated that he will be abstaining due to potential business conflicts. All present voted in favor, with Mr. Santos abstaining. Mr. DeMoura read the RESOLUTION BY TITLE ONLY. This Resolution SIGNED, SEALED and DELIVERED this date. 4. Adoption: A Resolution to adopt the compliance plan for the Town of Mount Pleasant for Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Civil Rights Restoration Act of 1987. (R. 18026) Mr. Pagliarini stated that Mr. Hinchey has been drafting this over the last several months. Mr. Hinchey stated that this plan is required by the South Carolina Department of Transportation and provides a blueprint to assure continued compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 which, in general, prohibits discrimination based on race, creed, national origin and color. He requested that Council adopt the resolution. Mr. Santos moved to approve adoption of the resolution; seconded by Mr. Owens. All present voted in favor. Mr. DeMoura read the RESOLUTION BY TITLE ONLY. This Resolution SIGNED, SEALED and DELIVERED this date. Page 39 of 44  5. Adoption: A Resolution authorizing a Law Enforcement Mutual Aid Agreement between the City of Myrtle Beach Police Department and the Mount Pleasant Police Department for the Atlantic Beach Bike Fest Event 2018 Memorial. (R. 18021) Mr. Santos stated that he would like to make a motion to approve items #5, #6, #7, #8 and #9; seconded by Mr. Brimmer. All present voted in favor Mr. DeMoura read the RESOLUTION BY TITLE ONLY. This Resolution SIGNED, SEALED and DELIVERED this date. 6. Adoption: A Resolution authorizing a Law Enforcement Mutual Aid Agreement between the Mount Pleasant Police Department and the Charleston County Aviation Authority Police Department. (R. 18022) [Approved with Item #5] Mr. DeMoura read the RESOLUTION BY TITLE ONLY. This Resolution SIGNED, SEALED and DELIVERED this date. 7. Adoption: A Resolution authorizing a Law Enforcement Mutual Aid Agreement between the Mount Pleasant Police Department and the North Charleston Police Department. (R. 18023) [Approved with Item #5] Mr. DeMoura read the RESOLUTION BY TITLE ONLY. This Resolution SIGNED, SEALED and DELIVERED this date. 8. Adoption: A Resolution authorizing a Law Enforcement Mutual Aid Agreement between the Town of Mount Pleasant Police Department and the South Carolina Ports Authority Police Department. (R. 18024) [Approved with Item #5] Mr. DeMoura read the RESOLUTION BY TITLE ONLY. This Resolution SIGNED, SEALED and DELIVERED this date. 9. Adoption: A Resolution authorizing a Law Enforcement Mutual Aid Agreement between the Mount Pleasant Police Department and the Summerville Police Department. (R. 18025) [Approved with Item #5] Page 40 of 44  Mr. DeMoura read the RESOLUTION BY TITLE ONLY. This Resolution SIGNED, SEALED and DELIVERED this date. 10. Adoption: A Resolution authorizing a change in location for regular Town Council Meetings on July 10, 2018 and December 11, 2018. (R. 18028) Mayor Haynie stated that this is an effort to take government to the people. He said that Council would like to have meetings in the northern end of Mount Pleasant and originally chose Wando High School Auditorium. He said when Council attempted to schedule these meeting, there were scheduling conflicts. He stated that the purpose was not to specifically hold the meetings at Wando High School, but instead to have a meeting in the northern area of Mount Pleasant. He believes it would be better to have the meetings at the Park West Recreation Complex. Mr. Santos moved for approval; seconded by Mr. Brimmer. Mr. Bustos asked how much funding was provided to Wando High School to help with their auditorium. Mr. Bustos asked if it was $500,000 or $600,000. Mr. DeMoura responded $600,000. Mr. Bustos asked Mr. DeMoura if they were asking for an additional $400,000. Mr. DeMoura responded in the affirmative. Mayor Haynie stated that there is a motion to move those two meetings to the Park West Recreation Complex. All present voted in favor. Mayor Haynie stated that the meetings will remain for July and December dates. Mr. DeMoura read the RESOLUTION BY TITLE ONLY. This Resolution SIGNED, SEALED and DELIVERED this date. 11. Consideration of a Comprehensive Traffic Analysis for the Old Village and Indian Village Page 41 of 44  Mr. Santos stated that residents from the Old Village and surrounding areas have come before Council regarding the traffic in their areas. He said that Council heard the same thing from the Groves and Cooper Estates. He stated that a traffic analysis was accomplished and as a result, speed humps were installed as well as additional stop signs. He said that this appears to have resolved the majority of those issues. He would like to do the same for the Old Village and the Indian Village, all the way down to Ben Sawyer. He stated that if a traffic analysis can be done in those areas, perhaps traffic calming measures may also be put in to minimize any possible negative impacts. He stated that this can be sent to the Transportation Committee initially. Mayor Haynie stated that he appreciates Mr. Santos’ recommendation, which will be taken up in the Transportation Committee. He asked Mr. Morrison about the driver feedback data machines that are currently in place which have been installed for approximately six months and asked if this data could be presented at the Transportation Committee. He said that he would prefer for this item to stay with the Transportation Committee, in order to conduct a thorough study. Mr. Owens moved to approve additional consideration of Council to task staff with providing options for improving traffic calming along feeder and arterial roads, but more importantly the safety of pedestrians as traffic flow has increased, including, but not limited to the possibility of taking over Center and McCants Drive, and suggests sending this to the Transportation Committee for a resolution seconded by Mr. Santos. All present voted in favor. B. Old Business Page 42 of 44  1. Final Reading: An Ordinance to repeal and replace Chapter 38: Procurement Code of the Mount Pleasant Code of Ordinances. (Ord. No. 18010) Mr. Brimmer moved for approval; seconded by Ms. Whitley. All present voted in favor. Mr. Pagliarini read FINAL READING BY TITLE ONLY. This Ordinance SIGNED, SEALED and DELIVERED this date. 2. Final Reading: An Ordinance to create Chapter 44: Lobbyists (Ord. No. 18009) Mr. Santos made a motion to approve; seconded by Ms. Whitley. All present voted in favor. Mr. Pagliarini read FINAL READING BY TITLE ONLY. This Ordinance SIGNED, SEALED and DELIVERED this date. 3. Final Reading: An Ordinance to amend the Budget for the Town of Mount Pleasant for the Fiscal Year Commencing July 1, 2017 and ending June 30, 2018. (Ord. 18011) Mr. Brimmer made a motion for final reading; seconded by Mr. Santos. All present voted in favor. Mr. Pagliarini read FINAL READING BY TITLE ONLY. This Ordinance SIGNED, SEALED and DELIVERED this date. C. Executive Session Mr. Owens moved to adjourn into executive session; seconded by Mr. Santos. All present voted in favor. Council adjourned into executive session at 8:13 p.m. and reconvened at 8:20 p.m. Personnel Appointment to the ATAC Committee Page 43 of 44  Ms. Landing made a motion that in regard to the Accommodations Tax Advisory Committee, expired seat #2, an “At Large” Three Year Term, to reappoint Ms. Cheryl Craven; seconded by Mr. Santos. All present voted in favor. D. Post Executive Session Council may take action on any item listed on an executive session agenda or discussed in an executive session during a properly noticed meeting. XII. ADJOURN There being no further business, Council adjourned at 8:21 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Barbara Ashe February 13, 2018 Page 44 of 44