City Council

176 June 26, 2023 The City Council of the City of Rocky Mount met this day in a regular session scheduled for 4:00 p.m. in the George W. Dudley City Council Chamber of the Frederick E. Turnage Municipal Building with Mayor C. Saunders “Sandy” Roberson, Jr. presiding. Councilmembers present: André D. Knight, Reuben C. Blackwell, IV., Richard Joyner, T.J. Walker, Jr., Lige Daughtridge, Tom Harris and Jabaris Walker. Staff present: Keith Rogers Jr., City Manager; Kim Batts, City Clerk; Elton Daniels, Assistant City Manager; Brad Kerr, Public Works Director; JoSeth Bocook, Interim Director of the Department of Development Services; Joel Dunn, Parks and Recreation Director; Archie Jones, Director of Human Relations; Brenton Bent, Water Resources Director; Gregory Cotten, Chief Technology Officer; Latasha Hall, Director of Business and Collections Services; Tracey Drewery, Interim Fire Chief; Michael Roupp, Assistant Chief of Operations; Darvin Moore, Division Chief; Ken Hunter, Assistant to the City Manager for Budget and Evaluation; Robert Hassell, Police Chief; Abdul Baloch, Chief Internal Auditor; Mark Adcox, Video Production Specialist; Robin Cox, Communications Specialist; Cornelia McGee, Community and Business Development Director; Scott Miles, Assistant City Engineer - Water Resources; Gabby Bryson, Stormwater Engineer; Kena Cofield-Jones, Director of Human Resources; Keyana Walston, Senior Management Analyst; Monica Brantley, Deputy City Clerk; and Richard J. Rose, City Attorney. Security Officers: Corporal Clay Wilder, Sergeant Chris Williams, and Senior Police Officer Shawn Battle. The Mayor called the meeting to order at 4:00 p.m. and requested all in attendance to stand for a moment of silent prayer. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Motion was made by Councilmember Joyner, seconded by Councilmember Harris, and unanimously carried the minutes of the Regular Scheduled Committee of the Whole meeting held February 13, 2023 and the Regular Scheduled City Council meeting held February 27, 2023 be approved as submitted to the City Council prior to the meeting. The minutes of the February 13, 2023 Committee of the Whole are as follows: MINUTES OF A REGULAR SCHEDULED MEETING OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE HELD MONDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2023, AT 5:00 P.M. IN THE COMMITTEE ROOM OF THE FREDERICK E. TURNAGE MUNICIPAL BUILDING WITH MAYOR PRO TEM T.J. WALKER PRESIDING: MEMBERS PRESENT: STAFF PRESENT: T.J. Walker, Mayor Pro Tem Peter F. Varney André D. Knight Kim Batts Richard Joyner Robert Hassell  177 Lige Daughtridge Kenneth Hunter Tom Harris Abdul Baloch Jabaris Walker Archie Jones Mayor C. Saunders “Sandy” Roberson, Jr. Kirk Brown Kena Cofield-Jones Greg Cotten MEMBERS ABSENT: Latasha Hall Reuben Blackwell, IV Corey Mercer Cornelia McGee-Anthony Richard J. Rose Joel Dunn OPENING OF MEETING Mayor Pro Tem T.J. Walker called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m. SECOND/QUARTER FINANCIAL REVIEW: CITY - SECOND/QUARTER FINANCIAL REVIEW: EVENT CENTER – Ken Hunter Assistant to the City Manager for Budget & Evaluation Kenneth Hunter presented the second quarter report, which is through December 31, 2022. General Fund Update: • Revenues remain ahead of last year through December o Ad Valorem decreased 3.2% due to timing of Property Tax payments o Local Option Sales Tax increased 7.3% o Strong increases in Sales & Services revenues o Increased returns on investment of idle funds • Anticipated, manageable expenditure growth o Impact of pay increases o Operating cost increases due to inflation o Increased capital outlay (equipment and facilities) Enterprise Funds Update: • Electric & Gas o Sales slightly higher in Electric, significantly higher in gas o Impact of increase in wholesale Gas costs • Water & Sewer o Sales up in Water, reflecting increased usage & adjusted rates o Usage down in Sewer, with increased revenues reflecting rate adjustment o Water capital spending increasing, sewer capital spending decreasing • Stormwater o Revenues meeting expectations o Planned, significant capital project activity underway • Revenue Monitoring Continues o Project finishing FY 2023 in line with budgeted forecasts o Focus attention on trend with Local Option Sales Tax • Monitoring Expenditures with respect to Inflation o Fuel o Consumables o Capital Equipment • April: Present Proposed CIP for Fiscal Years 2024 to 2028 • Departments are working on FY 2024 Budget submissions 178 Ken Hunter gave an overview of the Event Center Financial Performance FY 2023 FY 2023 Q2 Amended Year-to-Date Revenues 1,986,810 674,585 Cost of Goods Sold 1,621,770 677,817 Facility Expenses 1,012,410 486,320 Net Operating Margin ($647,370) ($489,552) Tax Credit Expenses 427,000 242,822 Debt Service 3,065,050 707,525 Capital Outlay 156,942 10,568 Net Total Margin ($4,296,362) ($1,450,467) • Second Quarter financial performance reflects normal activities for this period in operations o Activity picking up, with full occupancy starting in January • Net Operating Margin o Loss will reduce in FY 2024 and FY 2025 o Positive for FY 2026 • Capital Outlay o Ongoing facility improvements o Equipment o Included in CIP Councilmember Questions/Comments: Councilmember Daughtridge asked Mr. Hunter to provide the history of the administrative fees and the 5-year historical impact. He inquired as to how the City gets reimbursed for providing security for the Event Center, being that it’s a separate entity. Mr. Varney replied that it is a City facility. Councilmember Daughtridge asked if security could be contracted out to a service since the City currently doesn’t have enough officers. He said that the people who rent a facility should pay for security. Mr. Varney said contracting out for security is something that could be looked at. Councilmember Knight said that police protection is available to citizens at events in the city. He said visitors who come to Rocky Mount to attend an event spend money and help build revenue. He feels it’s the City’s job to provide safety. He said it’s operated by the City and even if it’s added to the budget, it’s still City funds. Councilmember Daughtridge asked if the City provides security for events at the Imperial Center. Mr. Varney replied not for private events. He said that he is of the understanding that the happenings at the Event Center are for Downtown Economic Development. He said that thousands of people attend the City’s facility and protection is provided. Councilmember Daughtridge asked about the impact on the Police Department. Mr. Varney said that the Police Department is short-handed. He acknowledged that officers are not on the street where they would  179 normally be. He said that police officers need to be around when there is a congregation of thousands of people visiting the community. Councilmember Daughtridge said that he would like to know the cost to provide security at the Event Center. Councilmember Joyner asked that the cost to market the City to the amount of people who attend these events be compared. Councilmember Knight feels that efforts need to be made to support the Event Center. He said that people come from across the country to Rocky Mount to enjoy the facility. Mr. Knight said he supports the police department. He doesn’t believe citizens are at risk because officers are working at the Event Center. Councilmember Daughtridge said that he wants the Event Center to work. He’s concerned about the Police Department and taxpayers being burdened. He believes that security is necessary but that whoever is holding that event pays for it. Councilmember Knight asked Chief Hassell if providing security was putting a burden on officers. Mayor Pro Tem Walker suggested speaking with Chief Hassell on the topic when he makes his presentation. Councilmember Harris asked that anything in the 2023/2024 CIP that was not addressed in last year’s CIP be highlighted. Mr. Hunter replied that the CIP covers 5 years, from 2024 to 2028. He said there are always projects added and dropped. Mr. Hunter said that he will highlight the new projects and identify anything that has been dropped. Mayor Pro Tem Walker shared that while at the School of Government peers commented on the great place Rocky Mount was in financially. He commended the staff and finance team. Mayor Pro Tem Walker reminded everyone that PBSNC would be highlighting the Rocky Mount Event Center and the impact of sports on tourism in the State. COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION: Information only; no formal action SUNSET PARK MASTER PLAN – Joel Dunn Joel Dunn, Director of Parks and Recreation shared that Sunset Park will be the next big project to tackle utilizing grant funding. He presented a brief history of Sunset Park. He said that most people talk about the train and carousel. Mr. Dunn shared that Sunset Park was renovated in 2002 because of Hurricane Floyd. He said the park is largely in a floodplain and it limits what can be done. Mr. Dunn shared that feasibility studies note the importance of Sunset Park. He said that Sunset Park sets up well when looking at how grant agencies score projects and what they fund. He reported it checks all the boxes, in the areas of Equity in transportation for disadvantaged populations, environmental justice and mode of transportation. In addition to the fact that it can be considered a neighborhood, community or regional park. Mr. Dunn said that NC is trying to improve and expand the trail systems and Sunset Park is the City’s cornerstone. He feels the application is going to be strong and Sunset Park is a great project to go after grant funding. Mr. Dunn reported that three public meetings were held seeking the public’s input for the renovation of Sunset Park. He summarized citizens’ interests. He noted that the Stony Creek feasibility study has been funded and is underway. Mr. Dunn said a plan was developed from the results and taken to Nash Co. Travel & Tourism Council, Rocky Mount Rotary Club, Neighborhood Presidents’ Association and 180 Rocky Mount Planning Board. He stated that community support helps in grant points for applications. Proposed Project Budget: Item Estimated Cost New Multi-use, natural surface trail 7,920 lf $50,000 Wildlife observation, river access & riparian restoration $62,000 Pollinator Gardens at Community Gardens $25,000 Like Mini Shelters (3) $17,500 Multi-purpose field $15,000 Renovate Tennis courts $100,500 Miniature train $165,000 Concession building and outdoor restrooms $75,000 Playground $180,000 Carousel $100,000 Spray Park $100,000 6,000 linear feet of greenway $150,000 Fishing piers & canoe/kayak launches $130,000 Subtotal $1,170,000 Trailhead at Sunset Park kiosk $7,500 Park security cameras $20,000 Design, project & grant management, permitting 10% $12,500 Contingency $50,000 Project Budget $1,260,000 Mr. Dunn stated he is pursuing multi-grant funding to cover up to 100% of project costs. He said he will ask for some CIP funds to help implement a larger playground. Proposed Grant Plan: • Match in Current FY23 CIP Accounts o Each grant will request City Council approval • NC Parks and Recreation Trust Fund o $500,000 (50/50), May 1, 2023 submission • Land and Water Conservation Fund o $500,000 (50/50), July 15, 2023 • Recreational Trails Program o $32,000 (80/20), February 2024 • NCDEQ Water Resources Development Grant o $250,000 (50/50), TBD Mr. Dunn asked that Council adopt the plan and authorize him submit the grant applications. Councilmember Joyner asked some questions about Battle Park - what happened to the overlook - why is there limited driving access - is anything being done to extend to the east Mr. Dunn responded that: - An inspection showed the overlook was failing and it was taken out. There is a natural surface trail around the rock area, so you can take bikes or walk around the trail. He would not recommend replacing the gazebo based on the feedback from people who use it now. - The lot off Peachtree is open. Battle Park Lane is temporarily open, specifically for fisherman who need to get to the boat ramp. The lane should be open to the public before the end of the year.  181 Work is being done on boat ramp, fishing piers and kayak launches. In addition to DOT having concrete pillars in that area. - Communities want tracks around parks, not necessarily a trail. Several are being worked on. Councilmember Harris asked about pickleball courts. Mr. Dunn responded that he hopes to be able to have pickleball in other parks. He said that Sunset Park has USTA certified tennis courts, if pickleball lines are put on them a USTA sanctioned event or tournament can’t be played on it. Mr. Dunn said that he is hesitant because approval for conversion of use from State and grant agencies would need to be sought. Councilmember Daughtridge asked if boat access at River Road is permanently closed. Mr. Dunn said that it should be a temporary closure, but he would confirm. Councilmember Daughtridge said that he rode past the Stone Park tennis court and it was in bad shape. Mr. Dunn said that Stone Park and Eastern Avenue would be reclamation projects since they are beyond repair. Councilmember Knight presented pictures of the Booker T. Washington Center. He said that it’s the City’s oldest community center and should be a priority when looking for grant money. He said some issues are working bathrooms, heat, floor repairs and chipping lead paint. Councilmember J. Walker confirmed that the boy’s bathroom was not operable. He said since 2019 when he worked at the BTW Center and the gym is in bad shape also. Councilmember Daughtridge agreed that something needs to be done at the BTW Center. He said there is a limited amount of funds. He said that roads need repairs, there is nothing for children in Ward 5 and no sidewalks up Sunset Avenue. He said that they all have needs and where to allocate the funds should be examined. Mr. Dunn said that the grants target outdoor recreation. He expects the Sunset Park project to require no City funds be allocated. Councilmember Knight asked about the greenway that was slated to go through Eastern Avenue behind D.S. Johnson. Mr. Dunn said that there have been discussions about park renovations. Edgecombe County is being prepped for the next cycle of grants. He said that they are looking to see if Eastern or Stith Talbert would have a better chance for funding. Councilmember Knight said when talking about spending money that the need is far greater in the Eastern part of town. Mr. Varney shared the following: - The CIP has funding recommendations for the BTW gymnasium and community center - A plan is being considered for the Parker Canal trail. It would extend from the parking lot of the Event Center to MLK Park, connecting with the existing greenway trail. COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION: Information only; no formal action 182 CRIME STATISTICS - Robert Hassell Chief Robert Hassell presented a summary of city-wide crime numbers to the City Council for January 2023. It was noted that the presentation covers crime incidents throughout the City, currently and in comparison with the prior year during the same time period. The Council was advised that crime numbers are tracked by the FBI and shared with the Bureau of Justice Statistics for tracking purposes and the presentation includes investigation outcomes for violent crimes and related arrests. The presentation also included maps depicting areas of shots fired, incidences of aggravated assault and murder and highlighted efforts and successes of the Police Department to combat violent crime. An overview of PowerPoint presentation provided to the Mayor and Council includes: • National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS) Part 1 crime comparisons by type were provided. Total crime numbers by months and years were reported as: January January Crimes/NIBRS Part 1 2022 2023 +/- YTD 2022 YTD 2023 +/- Total 149 166 17 149 166 +17 • January 2023 crime numbers for murders, aggravated assault and shooting into occupied building(s)/vehicle(s) (map of locations provided): o Aggravated assault cases and investigations: ▪ Aggravated assault cases = 18 ▪ Aggravated assault victims = 38 ▪ Number cases with multiple victims = 7 ▪ Aggravated assault arrests = 6 ▪ Aggravated assault cases cleared = 1 o Case Dispositions (total = 18): ▪ Cases cleared by arrest = 1 ▪ Inactive cases = 2 ▪ Open cases = 15 o Crime Report: ▪ Murder, aggravated assault and shooting into occupied building/vehicle: total victims = 38 *Victims with injuries = 28 *Victims without injuries = 9 o Homicide: ▪ Total of Incidents = 1 ▪ Total of Victims = 1 ▪ Total of Closed Cases = 0 o ShotSpotter and Citizen calls City-wide: ▪ Shots fired = 66 ▪ Calls resulting in shell casings found = 24 ▪ Number shell casings found = 226 ▪ Number shell casings found (year to date) = 226 ▪ Number of Firearms Seized = 26 ▪ Number firearms seized (year to date) = 26 ▪ Weapon violation arrests = 3 Other Police Stats: • Calls for Service – 8,049 • On-View Arrests & Warrant Service – 115 • Traffic Accidents - 149 • Accident Property Damage – $752,950  183 • Traffic Stops - 685 • Citations Issued - 39 • Warnings Issued - 75 Community Events: • Community Gang Awareness • PALS Basketball Game Mayor Roberson asked Chief Hassell to share highlights from the meeting with the state and federal partners. Chief Hassell stated the meeting included US Attorney Michael Easley, DEA, ATF, U.S. Marshals, Homeland Security, ALE and Nash and Edgecombe County Sheriff Offices. He said discussion included the success over the years and what could be done to strengthen it. A plan was presented with some new initiatives to address crime in 2023. He thought it was a productive meeting. Councilmember Harris attended the meeting and said that he was surprised at the number of domestic violence cases that resulted in murder. He sees the need for more intervention and prevention. Chief Hassell said that the review of the 5-year trend shows violent crimes tracking slightly upward and property crimes are tracking downward. He said when looking at 2020, 2021 and 2022 they are both trending downward. He feels that’s significant because in the last 3 years the City Council and Manager’s office has invested in new technology. Chief Hassell said that 70% of the 20 homicides were domestic related. He wants to look at working on domestic violence, mental health and overdoses in 2023. Councilmember Knight stated that he was surprised that the neighboring towns don’t report crime stats. He said that Rocky Mount is being transparent by reporting numbers monthly and getting beat up because of that. Councilmember Harris noted the number of aggravated assaults went from 18 to 37 and asked if there was any common denominator. Chief Hassell replied that he hasn’t had an opportunity to look deeper into those numbers. He said typically a longer time span is a better comparison than month to month. Councilmember J. Walker mentioned the PALS program. He shared that he had an opportunity to watch some games and see the officers interact with the kids. He said the energy in the room and the support is a beautiful thing to watch. Chief Hassell feels the positive influence on the youth lives is something that will stay with them. He is thankful for the dedicated men and women who give up their time to spend with children in the PALS program. He said the youth have asked for skating, bowling and arts. He is excited to add other activities. Councilmember Joyner said that he would like to have more community walkthroughs. He also thanked Chief Hassell for reactivating bike patrol. Chief Hassell said that he has personnel who have been tasked with making sure that every community or neighborhood watch meeting has a staff person in attendance. Councilmember Knight asked if the Event Center was used for any of the department’s activities. 184 Chief Hassell said yes, they do get some floor time at the Event Center. Mayor Pro Tem asked about the demand on officers for the Event Center. Chief Hassell said that the Event Center staff works with the Police Department liaison to ensure that there is an adequate number of officers to cover events. He said they have been able to fill those obligations. Chief Hassell agreed that the Police Department does have vacancies. He said that off duty officers are brought in because he doesn’t want officers taken from the streets. Mayor Pro Tem Walker said he is hearing officers who are scheduled to be off having to come back and work. Chief Hassell responded yes, that happens at times if positions need to be filled. He stated that some officers want to do overtime, so volunteers are sought first. Chief Hassell said that there is a rotation set between the divisions. If the positions aren’t filled on a voluntary basis, then officers will be selected to work that assignment. Mayor Pro Tem Walker suggested considering a downtown taskforce moving forward with recruitment. Chief Hassell said that he’s looking to have at least 2 permanent officers be assigned to the downtown area. Mayor Pro Tem asked what could be done to help with officer recruitment and retention. Chief Hassell replied that he knows the City is working on the pay and classification study. He said that making sure officers and telecommunicators are paid a marketable salary would be helpful. He stated that telecommunicators typically answer 86 to 90 thousand 911 calls a year. Chief Hassell reported that they dispatch calls for service for police and fire department in the city. He plans to present some ideas on how to utilize civilians in positions to elevate some needs from officers. Councilmember Daughtridge asked if civilians could be used at the Event Center to help with the strain on the officers. Chief Hassell replied that he is looking at certified security officers to supplement Event Center coverage. He said in addition to Nash and Edgecombe County deputies. Councilmember Knight feels that people respect a sworn officer. He said that Parks and Rec employees may have to come in to set up for an event and all employees must be considered. Councilmember Knight stated that with the pay study coming, he doesn’t foresee an issue with increasing the pay. He said hard work is needed to recruit and fill the vacant positions. Councilmember Joyner said it shows a good collaborative effort to include Nash and Edgecombe County deputies. Interim City Manager, Peter Varney said that Chief Hassell and his staff did an outstanding job of making a presentation in the law enforcement partnership discussion. He asked that it be presented in a future meeting so that the entire Council and community could see it. He said was an overview of policing in Rocky Mount. Mr. Varney shared some of his notes from US Attorney, Mike Easley’s comments.  185 - He was watching a meeting and was proud of the Mayor and City Council’s response to a string of homicides. - He praised the police department for assigning task force officers. - The Federal priority is to focus on shooters and gun traffickers. - Supports the safe neighborhood strategy. COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION. Received report; no formal action. LEGISLATIVE AGENDA – Peter Varney Councilmember Daughtridge said that the priorities are in the agenda so they could respond individually. He suggested comments be addressed directly to the City Manager or Mayor Pro Tem Walker. Mayor Pro Tem Walker said that was fine. COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION: Information only; no formal action CITY COUNCIL RETREAT – Peter Varney Mr. Varney said that the new City Manager starts March 8th and a City Council meeting is scheduled for March 13th. He said that since some will be attending the National League of Cities meeting on March 27th that meeting needs to be rescheduled. Mr. Varney suggested April 3rd at 5:00. He proposed the retreat be scheduled for April 27th and 28th. He mentioned that Mr. Rogers is considering having a leadership staff retreat April 5th and 6th. Mr. Varney asked for topics for discussion. He suggested continuing the conversation on neighborhood revitalization. In addition to the presentation of the Capital Improvement Plan. Councilmember Daughtridge said that he would like to see an in-depth look at the roads throughout the entire city, including sidewalks. Councilmember Harris asked for Water and Sewer Infrastructure. Councilmember Daughtridge asked if the pay study plan would be received before the retreat. Mr. Varney said that he was hoping to have it at the March 13th meeting. Mayor Pro Tem Walker suggested Charlotte and Concord as retreat locations. He said that Concord has neighborhood revitalization and recreational bonds. He stated that Concord takes a penny from their utilities to use for affordable housing. Councilmember Daughtridge said that it would be great to hear from them. He said if they could be brought to the Event Center it would give staff and citizens the opportunity to attend. Councilmember Joyner suggested Fayetteville. Mr. Varney said he would like to see who in the state is doing things they could learn from. He mentioned housing revitalization and looking at a jurisdiction that may have done a housing bond. Mr. Varney said that he heard about Winston-Salem and High Point working on some areas of interest. Councilmember Knight said that he looked at Charlotte, Concord, Fayetteville and Winston-Salem and feels they may be locations to look at. Mayor Pro Tem Walker said that he would poll Councilmembers for suggestions. COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION. Received report; no formal action. 186 ADJOURNMENT Without objection, the Mayor Pro Tem adjourned the meeting at 6:40 p.m. A printed copy of the PowerPoint presentations are on file in the office of the City Clerk. ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO AGENDA None. COMMUNITY UPDATE BY CITY MANAGER City Manager Keith Rogers Jr. provided the following community update. The City Manager reported that: • Stated he would like to congratulate the Assistant City Manager Elton Daniels on his appointment as President of the North Carolina City & County Management Association • Stated the Rocky Mount Police Department will be giving out free firearm locks this Thursday from 4 to 6 pm at the Oakwood shopping center parking lot on Fairview • Stated the City’s annual Independence Day celebration will take place from 6 to 9 pm on Monday, July 3rd at the Rocky Mount Sports Complex featuring live music, play areas, food vendors, and fireworks beginning at 9 pm • Stated next week the City buildings will be closed on July 4th in observation of the holiday but Sunset Park will be open from 1 pm to 7 pm and Denton Street pool will be open from 1:30 pm to 5:30 pm and garbage collection will occur on normal schedule • Stated the next Downtown Live concert will be next Thursday July 6th on the lawn at the Imperial Centre and the Holiday Band will take the stage at 6 pm • Stated First Friday returns to Rocky Mount from 5 to 10 pm on July 7th in the downtown area PETITIONS FROM THE PUBLIC The Mayor opened the meeting for petitions from the public and outlined guidelines for public petitions. He called on the following individuals for public comment and a brief summary of comments is outlined below: Dawn Paige • Stated she is with Concerned Black Americans Citizens, a non-partisan lineage based organization • Stated that they were very excited to hear about Future Entrepreneurs of America taking over the Rocky Mount Municipal ballfield • Stated on December 17, 2021 a Nash County School Board member, in a conflict of interest, solicited a bid from the City of Rocky Mount who then dropped out on January 10th, 2022 • Stated in their review they have found potential violations of the Sherman Act; the price fixing, refusal to sell the property to Future Entrepreneurs of America, market allocation violations, whereby they see Capitol Broadcasting potentially trying to monopolize the entertainment and farm league team situation • Asked that the Board and Council look at this as an opportunity to not be made complicit with this illegal action that is being undertaken by the Nash County School Board  187 Councilmember Knight asked City Attorney Jep Rose about the public records concerning the bidding process that Council had requested last Council meeting. Mr. Rose responded that he has been through the records and while there was confusion in the middle of February of 2022, the school board reopened the bid and they were simply outbid. He stated that he did not see anything illegal, although if Ms. Paige did the courts are available. Robert Cordell, Sr. • Stated he has petitions that should be completed by the next Council meeting regarding the repair or replacement of the sauna and to rename East and West Thomas Street to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. • Stated he is speaking on behalf of Mr. Cleo Arrington who is one of the plaintiffs in the pursuit of the Rocky Mount Municipal ballfield Arnie Jones • Stated he spoke last time he was here regarding a pay increase and is hoping the Council can come up with a solution expeditiously • Stated in the future there should be an open communication and he would like for the City Manager to come speak with the sanitation department • Stated his department does a wonderful job for this City and the residents in this City have a lot of compassion for Councilmember Joyner asked if the City Manager could respond to what the pay study will reflect in response to the request made by sanitation City Manager Rogers stated that the new classification and compensation structure that has been recommended by that study is on the agenda for this evening and the recommendation has been and is that Council approve the structure that has been developed. He stated it has been developed with a consultant’s recommendation for market rate as well as employee input and this structure will allow the tools to manage and navigate the work force as well as have ongoing reviews for other classifications on an annual basis Glenn Draughn • Stated he is one of the people who participated in the bid for the Rocky Mount Municipal ballfield • Stated he was bid number one, the City of Rocky Mount was bid number two • Stated when the City dropped out of the bid, the ballpark should have gone to the Entrepreneurs of America but it did not • Stated the City of Rocky Mount should do the right thing as the Entrepreneurs of America put up their own money and they were doing this for the kids in Rocky Mount • Stated that the City needs to review the audio/video from the school board as all the answers are there Crystal Wimes-Anderson • Stated she would like if the word could be spread regarding Community Code when it comes to commercial dwellings or entities and how to go about ridding neighborhoods of the nuisance • Stated that many of the neighborhood associations are working to clean up the communities but they need help from the City with the commercial entities as well as the housing needs • Stated there cannot be positive growth when there are so many abandoned homes and commercial entities within the communities 188 • Stated she would like the community to know about cognitive testing that is being done at Ward’s Pharmacy and Gam-Med Adrienne Copland • Stated that the same monies are being granted to the same non-profits like OIC and there’s little opportunity for other non-profits to ask for this money and she would like to know how they can apply • Stated that she has heard rumors with the youth connect program there was money given to pay the kids in the program and it is paid whether they show up or not • Stated that there should be metrics in place, if the program is great then the numbers should be there • Stated that she has tried to get a phone call or a meeting for some non-profits that she represents, and she cannot, but some organizations get the same line item earmarks in the budget every year Councilmember Blackwell stated that he cannot vote on it which is why he separated it out as a line item. He welcomes any organization that would like to apply for funding to do the work that matches every single dollar in operations, whatever OIC gets from the City of Rocky Mount, they more than contribute. He stated that he would appreciate when allegations are made in the public square that there is data to back it up as they are audited and have sign-up sheets, attendance records, multiple ways to prove students’ attendance. He stated that as a City Council, they support anyone that can produce outcomes and they are more than happy to compare their outcomes to any organization in the City including Economic Development entities which never get questioned about what gets invested. He stated that is interesting that public comments always tend to come right back to organizations of color. Stepheny Houghtlin • Stated she writes the blog of mainstreetrockymount.com • Stated she is here to comment on the rescue fund money and the proposal to set a million dollars aside for another set of plans • Stated that the rescue fund was intended for the people’s recovery • Stated that she is mindful that the Council has already set $3 million aside for housing and repair and $2 million for downtown • Stated before people vote on using the million dollars on more plans, she would like them to think about spending it on exterior improvements for citizens Antoinette Cutler • Thanked OIC for the great work they do in our community • Stated the OIC is the only health facility that she knows that does not turn down anyone with or without insurance and also reaches out to the kids to help better their education and way of living • Thanked the City Manager for looking over the Public Works request • Stated she also stands for the Rocky Mount ballpark and she feels like the City needs to do what is right concerning the ballpark CONSENT AGENDA Motion was made by Councilmember T. J. Walker, Jr., seconded by Councilmember Joyner, and unanimously carried that the Consent  189 Agenda, items 8A through 8H, be approved as follows and more specifically: A. AWARD OF DUTY BADGE/SIDEARM: That the award of Duty Badge and Sidearm to Police Lieutenant Tim Hathaway for 30 Years of Dedicated Service be approved. B. TEMPORARY STREET CLOSING: Request from the Happy Hill Neighborhood Community Club to Close the streets surrounding Bea Holman Parks (1000 Block of Star, 500 Block of N. Harris & 500 Block of N. Vyne Streets) from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 2, 2023, for their annual Happy Hill Day event was approved. C. URGENT REPAIR PROGRAM POST-APPROVAL DOCUMENTATION/ADMINISTRATIVE POLICY/URGENT REPAIR PROGRAM ASSISTANCE POLICY AND PROCUREMENT AND DISBURSEMENT POLICY The City Council authorized the City Manager and the City Clerk to execute the Urgent Repair Program Post-Approval Documentation. That Resolution No. R-2023-41 entitled RESOLUTION APPROVING POLICY NO. II.29(A) ENTITLED “POLICY: URGENT REPAIR PROGRAM ASSISTANCE” and POLICY NO. II.29(B) ENTITLED “POLICY: URGENT REPAIR PROGRAM PROCUREMENT & DISBURSEMENT” be adopted. The Council was advised that the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency has approved $132,000 for the City as a part of the FY 2023- 2024 cycle of the Urgent Repair Program (URP23) and it is anticipated that Council will approve an additional $150,000 for the Urgent Repair Program for a total of $282,000 for the 2023-2024 URP23 program cycle. It was explained that the Urgent Repair Program is one of four (4) housing programs offered by the City for homeowners at or below 50% of the Area Median Income and eligible repairs are those affecting the safe occupancy of the home such as flooring support structures, the roof, bathroom and doorway modifications for handicap accessibility and heating and cooling. Council was advised that approval and adoption of the policies detailing eligibility requirements, the selection process and overall program process along with the bidding and payment process is required. D. PRE-APPLICATION DOCUMENTS FOR THE FY 2025 COMMUNITY TRANSPORTATION PROGRAM GRANT City Council was advised that North Carolina Department of Transportation now requires that all Pre-Application documents be approved by the City Council and executed by the Mayor. The Pre- Application documents were approved and the Mayor was authorized to execute the documents on behalf of the City. E. PROPERTY AND CASUALTY INSURANCE The City Council approved a proposal from Surry Insurance for insurance coverage to meet the City’s risk management goals for FY 2024 at a total cost not to exceed $1,851,485. The proposal 190 maintains the current broker and continues coverage with a proposed increase overall of 11%. The following areas were outlined to experience a significant increase: • Property Coverage is expected to increase 17% (increase is directly related to the escalation of property values which is fueled by the cost of new construction) • The Inland Marine coverage is expected to increase 21% (increase is the result of equipment additions and the escalated cost of replacement equipment; this is also the reason behind the projected 26% increase for our Boiler Machinery policy) • The cost of Cyber Coverage is projected to increase by 38% (cost increase is due to increased risk associated with network operations – these risks have caused a reevaluation of Cyber coverage and a more robust policy to be sought for the city) It was noted that this year the city will be seeking a new Third-Party Administrator (TPA). Currently, there are two separate TPA services for city claims. One TPA services Workers Comp claims and the other handles liability claims. The goal is to consolidate the contracts and work with one single TPA. The increase in this line item reflects additional costs that are typically budgeted outside of Finance. It is expected that this will reduce the overall claims handling expense. F. FY 2022-2023 ORDINANCES: The following Ordinances for FY 2022 – 2023 were approved: • Budget Ordinance Amendments FY22-23 1) Ordinance No. O-2023-76A entitled ORDINANCE AMENDING THE BUDGET ORDINANCE FOR FY 2022-2023 FOR RECEIPT OF GRANT TO PURCHASE POLICE CANINE - Appropriates $7,500 in the General Fund for purchase of a replacement Police canine, as requested and awarded in a grant from the AKC Reunite Adopt A K-9 Cop Grant Program 2) Ordinance No. O-2023-77 entitled ORDINANCE AMENDING THE BUDGET ORDINANCE FOR FY 2022-2023 FOR SEWER ASSET INVENTORY AND ASSESSMENT - Appropriates funds in the Sewer Fund for the purposes of completion of a Sewer System Study ($400,000 - grant funds received from the NC Department of Environmental Quality) 3) Ordinance No. O-2023-78 entitled ORDINANCE AMENDING THE BUDGET ORDINANCE FOR FY 2022-2023 FOR CITY HEALTH INSURANCE FUND - Appropriates $4,700,000 in the Self-Insurance Service Fund for the purposes of covering health insurance claims by the City in the current fiscal year (funding derived from Stop Loss Reimbursements already received by the City) 4) Ordinance No. O-2023-79 entitled ORDINANCE AMENDING THE BUDGET ORDINANCE FOR FY 2022-2023 FOR GENERAL FUND BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS - Appropriates funds in the General Fund for necessary budget adjustments - $405,000 ($260,000 required to pay LGERS to provide sufficient contributions for recently retired employees and $145,000 to cover costs of repaving the parking lot at City Hall) 5) Ordinance No. O-2023-80 entitled ORDINANCE AMENDING THE BUDGET ORDINANCE FOR FY 2022-2023 FOR CONTRIBUTION TO UNITED COMMUNITY MINISTRIES - Appropriates funds in the General  191 Fund for a contribution by the City to United Community Ministries ($100,000) • Project Ordinances/Amendments FY22-23 6) Tar River Transit − Ordinance No. O-2023-81 entitled GRANT PROJECT ORDINANCE AMENDMENT/URBAN TRANSIT OPERATING CARES ACT PROJECT - Urban Transit Operating Cares Act (UOCRS) - $113,967 − Ordinance No. O-2023-82 entitled GRANT PROJECT ORDINANCE AMENDMENT/FY 2023 RURAL TRANSIT CAPITAL PROJECT - Rural Transit Capital Project (RCA23) - $25,915 − Ordinance No. O-2023-83 entitled GRANT PROJECT ORDINANCE AMENDMENT/FY 2023 URBAN TRANSIT CAPITAL PROJECT - Urban Transit Capital Project (UCA23) - $65,250 − Ordinance No. O-2023-84 entitled GRANT PROJECT ORDINANCE AMENDMENT/FY 2023 URBAN TRANSIT OPERATING PROJECT - Urban Transit Operating Project (UOP23) - $159,750 7) Ordinance No. O-2023-85 entitled GRANT PROJECT ORDINANCE/ ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PROJECT "BLUES" - Appropriates funds to the Economic Development Fund as awarded from the North Carolina Department of Commerce’s Building Reuse Grant Program for Project Blues ($300,000) 8) Community Development: − Ordinance No. O-2023-86 entitled GRANT PROJECT ORDINANCE AMENDMENT FOR CDBG ENTITLEMENT GRANT PROJECT - Community Development Block Grant (CDB) - $30,424 − Ordinance No. O-2023-87 entitled GRANT PROJECT ORDINANCE AMENDMENT FOR HOME INVESTMENT PARTNERSHIP GRANT PROJECT- Home Investment Partnership (HME) - $142,077 9) Ordinance No. O-2023-88 entitled GRANT PROJECT ORDINANCE/ RURAL TRANSFORMATION GRANT PROJECT GRANT PROGRAM - Appropriates funds for Downtown improvement associated with receipt of the Rural Transformation Grant awarded to the City by the North Carolina Department of Commerce ($800,000) G. FY 2022-2023 BUDGET/PROJECT ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS 1. That Ordinance No. O-2023-89 entitled ORDINANCE REPEALING PRIOR PROJECT ORDINANCES be adopted. This Ordinance repeals the following project ordinances, adopted January 23, 2023 in order to correct and align appropriation of funds for affordable housing consistent with the North Carolina Local Government Budget & Fiscal Control Act: ▪ Ordinance O-2023-45 “Grant Project Ordinance Amendment Workforce Housing Repair Grant Program” ▪ Ordinance O-2023-46 “Grant Project Ordinance Amendment Matching Rebate Housing Repair Grant Program ▪ Ordinance O-2023-47 “Grant Project Ordinance Amendment Down Payment Assistance Grant Program” ▪ Ordinance O-2023-48 “Grant Project Ordinance Amendment Community Wealth Building Grant Program” 2. That Ordinance No. O-2023-90 entitled ORDINANCE AMENDING THE BUDGET ORDINANCE FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2022-2023 ALLOCATING FUNDS FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING PROGRAMS be adopted. This amendment appropriates $400,000 in the General Fund for projects designated by City Council on January 23, 2023. 192 H. STORAGE AREA NETWORK (SAN) FOR TECHNOLOGY SERVICES City Council approved a request from Technology Services for the purchase of a next generation Storage Area Network (SAN) @ a total cost of $124,140. It was noted that the new equipment will allow additional fault tolerant, load balancing along with logical scaleup capabilities to match applications needs. Due to security concerns, the model and manufacture of this SAN was disclosed and the memo is on file in the office of the City Clerk. BD-2023-15 was approved and the Purchasing Division authorized to Issue Purchase Order in Accordance with the Council’s Award. FY 2023-2024 BUDGET ORDINANCE/FEES & CHARGES Consideration was given to the FY 2023-2024 Budget Ordinance which establishes appropriations for FY 2023-2024 and sets the ad valorem rate at $0.685 per $100 of taxable assessed value; and to recommendations for amendments to the following fees and charges: • Department of Public Works: ▪ Policy No. X.8.5 Solid Waste Transfer Station Tipping Fee • Department of Water Resources: ▪ Policy No. X.9.2 Water & Sewer Retail Rates ▪ Policy No. X.9.3 Water and Sewer Wholesale Rates Councilmember Knight made a motion to amended the recommendation from the City Council to adopt the fiscal year 2023/24 budget ordinance to include, effective July 1, 2023, a 15% increase for our Public Works and parks and recreation and a 6% cost of living across the board increase for all full time employees with the exception of the police department employees that have already received a substantial increase. Councilmember Blackwell seconded the motion. Mayor Roberson called for any further discussion. City Council Discussion • Councilmember Daughtridge − Asked what impact the increases would have on the budget − Stated he feels it could be an injustice because he is unaware if this increase would be more or less than what had already been proposed − Asked the City Attorney if the proposed motion should be voted on separate from the budget City Attorney Jep Rose stated the motion should be voted on separately. • Councilmember Daughtridge − Asked the City Manager if the 15% would be moving the employees forward or backwards City Manager Rogers stated Councilmember Daughtridge was correct and the proposed budget includes funding to support the increases that were recommended in the classification and compensation study, which range all the way up to around 36%. City Manager Rogers also  193 stated an estimate of the fiscal impact of the proposed amendment for Public Works would be about an additional $1.3 million and for a 6% cost of living increase would be about another $1.3 million. • Councilmember Knight − Stated he did not feel the amendment would move employees backward − Stated they have not received a full copy of the study and only received slides − Stated that there is no question that the police officers deserve the increase, but the impact was not questioned when that took place − Stated it takes all the employees to run the City and he feels all the employees should receive something − Stated compression is also an issue and needs to be looked at with the pay and compensation study − Stated Sanitation and Public Works pick up trash and get in the ditches, but they do their job with dignity and respect − Stated the million dollars set to be spent on plans can be used to compensate employees • Councilmember Blackwell − Stated he supports the concept of adding 15% to the bottom line for Public Works employees who have the dirtiest work to do in this city and continue to be rated as the least important − Stated he would like to know how the pay and compensation plan affects the Public Works and Parks and Recreation employees specifically because he cannot discern from conversations whether or not people will receive an across the board increase, so he would like for the City Manager to clarify − Stated the bold move that took the Rocky Mount police department to the top of the pay scale, he would like to see the same done for the public works employees too • Councilmember T.J. Walker − Stated he thinks the increase for the police was due to the 40 vacancies they had so the funds were not pulled from another sector of the City − Stated he feels issues are due to the fact that a pay study has not been approved, so he is hoping it can be approved today − suggested that the pay and comp study be approved as it is presented to avoid potentially decreasing raises for departments that may be at a higher percentage and then allow staff to go in after the grades have been set to make necessary adjustments • Councilmember Harris − Stated he feels the new comp plan needs to be fully implemented and he asked City Manager Rogers if employees have seen the results of the comp plan City Manager Rogers stated that department heads received the spreadsheet last week but they deliberately did not send the pay range to the employees because there are specific impacts. He stated following the Council’s pleasure this evening all employees will receive a letter with their updated job title, description, as well as where they fall in the new pay plan. 194 • Councilmember Harris − Stated City Manager Rogers stated during the budget session that once the plan was implemented that it would be flexible to allow for adjustments • Councilmember Joyner − Stated we are dealing with trust of the employees − Asked if the City Council had received the study to look at it • Councilmember Knight − stated he did not say to not approve the pay and comp study, he asked that the budget be amended to give Public Works and Parks and Recreation a 15 percent increase and a cost-of- living increase of 6 percent for all employees who did not receive at least 5 percent in the study • Councilmember Daughtridge − Stated that he believes that this entire Council and management values each and every person that works for the City of Rocky Mount − Stated he echoes what Councilmembers T.J. Walker and Harris said regarding the fact that there has to be a balanced budget by June 30th − stated that he is not in favor of this amendment because in his meeting most people are going to see what he would consider a significant increase − Stated the City has not had a pay plan or compensation study that has been instituted or come before Council so it would be prudent to start here because it does not mean we cannot go back and reassess − Stated making this kind of amendment at the last minute to the budget is difficult to do − Asked City Manager Rogers what the approximate impact for the beginning salaries for the police officers that was put in place a month or two ago The City Manager stated he thought it was about $300,000 to $400,000. Councilmember Daughtridge called for the question. Mayor Roberson called for a show of hand to end the debate. Results were 4-3, therefore debate continued. Councilmember Blackwell − stated that it is not true that people have not received increases because there has not been a pay plan adopted as these increases are up to the individual managers who are provided with ranges and it is up to the commensurate command they report to − stated that once adopted the pay plan only sets ranges, it does not determine individual compensation − stated that the only reason this conversation is taking place is because during the number of budget sessions that have been held several Councilmembers, have asked questions related to public works and environmental services with no clarity in the response received − Inquired if these departments are guaranteed more than a 15 percent increase in this budget  195 City Manager Rogers responded that these types of comments were intentionally not individualized because the public works and parks and recreation departments within their various divisions have a number of different titles and a number of different job duties, so they were intentionally not generalized which is why he can’t answer if all of these employees will receive at least 15 percent increase. He explained that from glancing at the spreadsheet within those divisions, there are employees that if this plan is approved, will receive more than a 15 percent increase. He stated that he thinks that the premise of this classification and compensation structure is similar to what Councilmember Blackwell said, this is a tool to be able to advance the workforce as they cannot continue to separate and fund cost of living increases for some employees and not others. He continued stating that a new structure is needed that allows the workforce that we have in 2023 to be accommodated and provides the tools to deal with the ongoing movement going forward. He stated that the City has about 1000 employees and 500 employees will receive increases just from simply adopting the new structure. He explained that it is important for us to be grateful that we have the funding, which is about $3.2 million, to be able to fund the increases to adopt this new structure. He stated that as the new manager, he would love to have come to Council with a cost-of- living increase so that there could be a little something for all employees, but the current structure that we have does not allow us to be able to accommodate such. He asked that Council approve the budget with the $3.2 million for the increases that have been proposed for those employees and approve the classification and compensation structure as presented, which provides the best tool to address the concerns by employees not only now but going forward. • Councilmember Harris − stated that all employees are valuable and what they do for the City of Rocky Mount is valued − stated that he is going on record right now with the manager, with Mr. Hunter and others in key positions that if compensation needs to be adjusted after the budget is adopted, he promises to do all he can to make such things happen − stated he is one vote so he can’t 100 percent guarantee it but based on his reputation and his principles, he trusts what will be done will be the best for the City of Rocky Mount • Councilmember T.J. Walker − Stated that the pay and comp study will set the grades right so that when the pay is reviewed, employees have the opportunity to make sure they progress and not just get an increase as a temporary fix − stated that moving forward, once the pay and comp study is set in place, then adjustments can be made to individual employees’ compensations, rather than making them now when they haven’t even seen the pay study − stated that this staff can trust Council and sanitation workers will be taken care of and that is his word • Councilmember Knight − stated if talking about process, the manager did not follow the process − stated that the police budget is all the City’s money 196 − stated that he does not have a problem paying any of the employees because when the manager was hired, a majority of Council asked to give him a $75,000 increase and that is what was done − stated that employees are asking for more money as well, with experience and time and there have been City Managers with more experience and time that were not making what the current City Manager is making − stated that no one has seen the full pay and comp study • Councilmember Joyner − stated they are aware there are going to be some shortfalls but asked if City Manager Rogers could talk about how he is going to deal with them and how the workers will be taken care of City Manager Rogers responded that he cannot say what the issues will be because the new classification structure has not been implemented so employees do not know what the impact is. He stated that it has been said on multiple occasions that this needs to be approved to communicate the individual specific impacts to the workforce and because they are individual impacts they should not be generalized. He stated that his generalization is over half of the employees will receive an increase simply from adoption of the classification and compensation structure which is the foundation for the City to move forward in a way to be sure that we are leading in the market for compensation. He explained that the new structure not only provides additional funding for some positions, but it also increases career ladders and allows flexibility to do ongoing market analysis for mor specific positions. He stated that he has full confidence in the classification and compensation structure that has been proposed in item number ten as well as item number nine which contains the funding to support implementation. Councilmember Joyner inquired about the process for employees who are not satisfied with their increases or lack thereof. City Manager Rogers stated is difficult for him to say what employees believe they should get and he thinks the structure should be in place first so they can see what it is and then go from there. He stated in response to Councilmember Joyner’s question that there is a process by which the voices of the employees or any of their concerns can be heard. Councilmember Blackwell stated this is what democracy looks like, Council is doing what they have been called to do and everyone has a right to have an opinion whether it differs or is the same. He stated that he is delighted that Mayor Pro Tem T.J. Walker has the confidence that he has that sanitation workers will walk away pleased. He continued stating that Mayor Pro Tem T.J. Walker put his word on it  197 which means he has information and a level of confidence in the leadership that the entire department will be taken care of. He explained that he cares about the net result for people who have been intentionally overlooked. He explained that he is still supporting the amendment, but he supports the budget as it is, he would just like more allocated to the people who have been overlooked historically and have been undervalued. Councilmember Knight inquired if there is a 27% increase in the comp study for the fire department. City Manager Rogers responded there was a specific position of Firefighter EMT 1 and the average for that position is approximately $55,000 but he is not sure what that percentage of increase is. Councilmember Knight stated if you look at the data and look at the makeup of these departments, where the money is being spent and the workers, public works and parks and recreation departments are almost 99 percent African American. He stated that he hopes this Council can make a bold move in supporting the amendment. The Mayor restated the motion on the floor by Councilmember Knight, seconded by Councilmember Blackwell to approve the budget as stated, inclusive of resolutions/ordinances with Councilmember Knight’s amendment to include, effective July 1, 2023, a 15% increase for our Public Works and parks and recreation and a 6% cost of living across the board increase for all full time employees with the exception of the police department employees that have already received a substantial increase. The motion failed by a vote of 3-4 (Councilmembers Knight, Blackwell, Joyner ayes; Councilmembers T.J. Walker, Daughtridge, Harris and Jabaris Walker nayes) Councilmember T.J. Walker made a motion that budget be approved as is and then direct staff to look at changes that need to be made according to Councilmember Knight’s direction regarding parks and recreation and sanitation, including any employee who is not receiving any increase and report back to City Council in 90 days. Mayor Roberson restated the amended motion made by Councilmember T.J. Walker, seconded by Councilmember Joyner carried by a vote of 5-2 (Councilmembers Knight and Blackwell opposed) that Ordinance No. O-2023-91 entitled CITY OF ROCKY MOUNT 2023-2024 BUDGET ORDINANCE; Resolution No. R-2023-42 entitled RESOLUTION AMENDING CERTAIN ADMINISTRATIVE POLICIES FOR FEES AND CHARGES; Ordinance No. O-2023-92 entitled ORDINANCE ADOPTING AMENDMENTS TO WATER AND SEWER RETAIL RATES be adopted and that the City Manager be instructed to identify any changes to be made relative to the pay study or relative to the budget, based on the conversation had tonight with a report to Council within 90 days. 198 The above ordinances and resolution adopt the FY 2023-2024 budget maintaining the City’s current tax rate at $0.685 per $100 valuation, amend/approve certain fees and charges and amends water and sewer retail rates. POSITION CLASSIFICATION AND PAY PLAN The City Council received a recommendation for changes to the City’s Pay and Classification Plan. Council was informed that Human Resources worked with Evergreen Solutions, LLC to complete a citywide pay study. The following highlights and recommendations were noted: • Adopt a pay structure with 3 plans (general, energy, and public safety) • Increase minimum of $15/hour to $16.83/hour NC living wage o Approximately: 416 Employees move to the minimum of the range (overall structure) • 83 Employees move to living wage minimum (*2080-hour equivalency) • Job Descriptions for every position • FLSA Designation for every position • 42 positions recommended for reclassification • 10 positions added to career ladder options • Develop a hiring grid to align with implementation methodology Councilmember Knight asked if the City Manager could tell the City Council what new positions are included in the pay study since all new positions are to be approved by City Council. He stated there have been managers in the past that have created new jobs that council was not aware of. He stated he recalls the City Manager mentioning 2 new positions in Hunman Resources and asked if that was correct. The City Manager stated this was an entirely new classification and that every position that exists city-wide is attached to the resolution. He explained there are a number of new positions, many of them are simply to add to our career ladder. He confirmed there were 2 new positions funded for Human Resources but they are not necessarily new titles. Councilmember Knight asked if the City Manager could pull out the new jobs since the authority established new classification of position is vested in the city council, the city council will consider recommendation of the city manager and determine the need for a new classification of positions. Mr. Rose stated the motion on the floor would approve the classification since the City Manager had provided a list of all positions. Councilmember Knight stated he was asking if anyone knew what the new positions were. Councilmember T.J. Walker asked if the career ladders were the positions being referred to. Councilmember Knight stated he was referring to Section 1648 of the City Code that states any new positions would be brought before the City Council to consider the City Manager’s recommendation. Mayor Roberson asked the City Manager if he could provide a list of the new positions.  199 City Manager Rogers stated he could provide the information, but again, it is an entirely new plan, so all of the positions are listed. He stated some of the titles have been revised, a number of things have been updated related to the classification and compensation study, but every single position as required by the city code is listed for Council. Motion was made by Councilmember T.J. Walker, seconded by Councilmember Daughtridge and carried by a vote of 5-2 (Councilmembers Knight and Blackwell opposed) that Resolution No. R- 2023-43 entitled RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE CLASSIFICATION AND COMPENSATION PLAN FOR THE CITY OF ROCKY MOUNT be adopted. This resolution adopts the pay range schedule, position classification and pay range assignments as stated. FY 2023-2024 PROJECT ORDINANCES: Consideration of the following Ordinances for FY 2023 – 2024: − Community Development − Ordinance No. O-2023-93 entitled GRANT PROJECT ORDINANCE/FY 2023-2024 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) ENTITLEMENT GRANT PROJECT ($536,901); − Ordinance No. O-2023-94 entitled GRANT PROJECT ORDINANCE AMENDMENT/FY 2023-2024 HOME INVESTMENT PARTNERSHIP GRANT PROJECT ($514,399) − Tar River Transit − Ordinance No. O-2023-95 entitled GRANT PROJECT ORDINANCE/FY 2024 URBAN TRANSIT OPERATING PROJECT ($1,770,000); − Ordinance No. O-2023-96 entitled GRANT PROJECT ORDINANCE/FY 2024 URBAN TRANSIT CAPITAL PROJECT ($1,572,174); − Ordinance No. O-2023-97 entitled GRANT PROJECT ORDINANCE/FY 2024 TRANSIT SYSTEM PLANNING PROJECT ($53,950); − Ordinance No. O-2023-98 entitled GRANT PROJECT ORDINANCE/FY 2024 RURAL TRANSIT OPERATING PROJECT ($3,068,470); − Ordinance No. O-2023-99 entitled GRANT PROJECT ORDINANCE/FY 2024 RURAL TRANSIT CAPITAL PROJECT ($1,250,900); − Ordinance No. O-2023-100 entitled GRANT PROJECT ORDINANCE/FY 2024 RURAL TRANSIT SYSTEM FEEDER PROJECT ($250,000) Motion was made by Councilmember Harris, seconded by Councilmember Joyner, and unanimously carried that the FY 2024 Project Ordinances above be adopted. Councilmember Joyner asked for clarification about conflict of interest if council served on the transit board. City Attorney Jep Rose stated there was no conflict of interest if it was a board set up by the State. RESOLUTION ALLOCATING FY 2023-2024 APPROPRIATIONS FOR ACTIVITIES ADMINISTERED BY OPPORTUNITIES INDUSTRIALIZATION CENTER (OIC) The City Council was advised that funding has been provided for several years to OIC for their Youth Connect Internship Program and Construction Trades Program. Councilmember Knight and Councilmember Blackwell recused themselves from the vote due to their service on OIC’s board and Recusal Statements are on file in the City Clerk’s Office. 200 Motion was made by Councilmember Joyner, seconded by Councilmember Harris, and unanimously carried that Resolution R- 2023-44 entitled RESOLUTION ALLOCATING FISCAL YEAR 2023-2024 APPROPRIATIONS FOR SELECT ACTIVITIIES above be adopted. SURPLUS PROPERTY/406 BEAL STREET Consideration was given to Sealed Bids received for Surplus Property located at 406 Beal Street. The City Council approved a resolution authorizing the property to be advertised for sealed bids on April 24, 2023. The City Clerk published the notice of the information contained in the resolution pursuant to NCGS 160A-268. The highest bid received was $35,550 by AU Estates Services, Inc. Motion was made by Councilmember T.J. Walker, seconded by Councilmember Joyner, and unanimously carried that the bid by AU Estates Services, Inc. in the amount of $35,550 be accepted and the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to execute the deed conveying the property on behalf of the City. QUITCLAIM DEED The City Council was informed that due to a survey error, there is a 0.023-acre gap between the rear property line of the Ruby Grey Heirs property and the Municipal Stadium property that should have been a portion of the Municipal Stadium Property. The Nash Board of Education, the current owner of the Municipal Stadium property, is selling the property and needs the City of Rocky Mount to execute a quitclaim deed for the 0.023-acre gap to correct the boundary line. This item was tabled at the June 12, 2023 council meeting. Councilmember T.J. Walker stated they had heard a few individuals speak on this matter. He stated he wanted to clarify with the city attorney that the Council voting on this matter today does not impede any type of progress or process. City Attorney Jep Rose stated what is being voted on today is a matter to follow through with the agreement with the school board to convey the municipal stadium property. He stated since the .3 acres was left out of the original conveyance, this approval is needed to clear the matter. Councilmember Joyner asked the city attorney if there was anything we could do about the matter. Mr. Rose stated the school board was planning to sell the property regardless of what happens with the .3 acres, but this action is to clear the matter and ensure they are given what was agreed upon in the 1970’s. Councilmember Knight asked the city attorney if he could provide the information from the school board to the councilmembers that wanted it. He stated that Mr. Draughn had requested the information but had been unable to obtain it, therefore he felt his only recourse was to come to this board to express their grievance in the process and how it  201 was handled. He stated he understands that from the city attorney is that according to the information received, the process was handled properly. Mr. Rose stated the property went through an upset bid process with about six upset bid iterations. Councilmember Knight stated he was not going to support the approval due to the fact he was unable to provide Mr. Draughn with the information prior to the meeting so they could look at the timeline given to see if they agreed. He stated he would have preferred to have the information before the meeting and then he could have possibly supported it. Motion was made by Councilmember T.J. Walker, seconded by Councilmember Harris and carried by a vote of 5-2 (Councilmembers Knight and Blackwell opposed) that the item be approved and the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to execute the Quitclaim deed on behalf of the City. CLOSED SESSION A Closed Session was requested relative to matters concerning economic development and personnel. Motion was made by Councilmember Joyner, seconded by Councilmember Knight and unanimously carried that the City Council enter into Closed Session at 5:46 p.m. The minutes of the Closed Session shall be filed as ESM-631 at the end of Minute Book 38 upon approval for release by the City Attorney. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, by consensus, the meeting was adjourned at 6:17 p.m. ______________________________ Kim Batts City Clerk