As Published in the Courier-Tribune on June 24, 2011
by Hugh Martin*
STAR — The Star STEP (Small Town Economic Prosperity) Community leadership team has formed four sub-committees, each to work on a different strategy to reach the goals that the team wants to establish. Star’s coach, Art Jackson from the N.C. Rural Center, has led the group through the process of developing the mission and move into the planning stage.
At the June 20 STEP meeting, the teams revealed their strategies to develop their mission, which is “to preserve the heritage of our town as well as encourage, support and provide revitalization opportunities to new and existing businesses so the community will prosper.”
The first strategy team is co-chaired by Star Town Commissioner Alice Clemens, Jim Callicutt and Mary Callicutt. Their strategy is to “support and assist existing local commercial businesses, agriculture, industry and new endeavors.”
They had decided on six projects, which include:
• The purchase and installation of brackets and banners along Main Street to promote the town.
• The placement of informational signs at the north and south ends of Main Street to advertise events taking place in the town throughout the year.
• An annual dinner to recognize businesses and recognize their anniversary dates.
• Offer a $1,000 matching grant to businesses for improving the exteriors of their premises, such as structural improvements or landscaping.
• Identify 100 low-income families in town and provide them with $20 certificates to be used for fresh local foods at the Star Farmers Market.
• Development of a digital marketplace for selling products produced in Star over the Internet.
The second team is co-chaired by Star businesspersons Eddie Bernard and Donna Strong. Their strategy is to “develop quality of life facilities and amenities that will attract regional workers and retirees to Star.”
They chose three projects:
• Develop a “Concert in the Park” series by the summer of 2012.
• Hold an annual county fair in Star.
• Improve the buildings along Main Street.
The third team is chaired by Marla Coulthard, associate director of Central Park NC. Their strategy is to “strengthen tourism and market Star as an entrepreneurial community and innovation hub.” Team member Judy Stevens reported that this committee had chosen 16 projects:
• Ensure that the Star History Museum is open at least four days a week.
• Refurbish the Leach Cabin, which is where the town was officially formed.
• Promote the Shamburger House, which sits on an eight-acre tract and is currently for sale. Stevens mentioned that the property was being marketed for $150,000 and could possibly be developed as a retreat center or a bed & breakfast.
• Place bicycle racks in town for the convenience of cyclists who frequent the area.
• Develop a brochure to promote “21 Things to do in Star.”
• Produce T-shirts promoting Star as the geographic center of North Carolina.
• Issue press releases on a regular basis to promote the events happening in Star.
• Development of the actual geographic center of N.C., which is marked by a granite monument. The development could include a wishing well, a wedding destination, a picnic area and more bicycle racks.
• Develop a Little River Park for kayaking and gold panning.
• Apply for National Historic District designation and refurbish the old Star Jail.
• Capitalize on the town’s name, “Star,” by becoming affiliated with the “Dark Park” astronomy region of Montgomery and Moore counties.
• Add a Christmas Festival for the entire day that the annual Star Christmas Parade is held.
• Improve the Main Street area by burying utilities and installing lampposts along the street.
• Promote the glass blowing industry in Star.
• Continue the development of the “Pink House” as the Star Heritage Center.
• Turn a downtown building into a music performance center.
The fourth team is co-chaired by Mayor Susan Eggleston, Town Management Advisor John Gowan and Gay Roatch. Their strategy is to “develop a coordinated branding, promotions and communications program.”
Roatch and web developer Mike Watson, presented a new website that is under development for the town. Watson explained the different parts of the site that would allow multiple administrators the ability to update the site on a regular basis.
The STEP team will next meet July 18 at 6 p.m. and is open to the public.
*Note: byline was published as Mary Anderson, which is incorrect
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Star adopts budget; approves STARworks grant application ♥
Published in the Courier-Tribune on June 18,2011
by Hugh Martin
STAR - Star town commissioners adopted a budget of $708,051 for the 2011-2012 fiscal year during their regular monthly meeting Monday night.
The approved budget is an increase of $62,134 over the budget for 2010-2011 and includes a 2 percent raise for town employees, $5,800 for the town library and $1,000 for the Meals on Wheels program.
No one was present to speak at the public hearing on the budget.
A second public hearing was held in reference to a $600,000 Community Block Grant application for STARworks. Nancy Ruppert of Biscoe spoke during the hearing in favor of the application.
Nancy Gottovi, executive director of Central Park NC, explained that if the grant is received it would mainly be used for renovations and repairs on the aging former hosiery mill building.
Gottovi said the roof needs repair because of extensive leaking. Other needs include updates of essential equipment and technical assistance for small business, HVAC improvements and security issues because of the facility’s open design.
“If one person has a key then they have access to all of the businesses,” she told board members. “We have been doing some re-keying in an effort to provide better security.”
Gottovi said that the addition of a graphics design business in the near future would bring the number of enterprises at STARworks to 10.
“We recently received a North Carolina Green Business award that will allow us to replace the antiquated lighting in the building,” Gottovi added. “We will be able to install modern, energy-efficient lighting.”
Marla Coulthard, associate director of Central Park NC, said that STARworks had helped nominate the Town of Star for the Governor’s Innovative Small Business Community Award.
“Governor Perdue may be coming here to present the award if we win,” Coulthard said.
Wet Dog Glass, a glass furnace manufacturing facility at STARworks, has been nominated for selection as one of 20 “up and coming” small businesses in North Carolina.
In other business, commissioners James Parker, George Kivett and Jennifer Fountain:
• Heard from Mayor Susan Eggleston that the vacant Star Medical Clinic building had been appraised at $251,000. Eggleston suggested that the town consider placing the building on the market later. Commissioners agreed.
• Approved a contract for the town audit with Maxton McDowell CPA in the amount of $6,500. Commissioners voted to add a stipulation that a year-end update be included in the contract.
• Named a committee to review two engineering proposals for the Carolina Growler sewer line extension. The committee will bring their suggestions to the mayor, who will have the authority to negotiate the proposals on behalf of the town.
by Hugh Martin
STAR - Star town commissioners adopted a budget of $708,051 for the 2011-2012 fiscal year during their regular monthly meeting Monday night.
The approved budget is an increase of $62,134 over the budget for 2010-2011 and includes a 2 percent raise for town employees, $5,800 for the town library and $1,000 for the Meals on Wheels program.
No one was present to speak at the public hearing on the budget.
A second public hearing was held in reference to a $600,000 Community Block Grant application for STARworks. Nancy Ruppert of Biscoe spoke during the hearing in favor of the application.
Nancy Gottovi, executive director of Central Park NC, explained that if the grant is received it would mainly be used for renovations and repairs on the aging former hosiery mill building.
Gottovi said the roof needs repair because of extensive leaking. Other needs include updates of essential equipment and technical assistance for small business, HVAC improvements and security issues because of the facility’s open design.
“If one person has a key then they have access to all of the businesses,” she told board members. “We have been doing some re-keying in an effort to provide better security.”
Gottovi said that the addition of a graphics design business in the near future would bring the number of enterprises at STARworks to 10.
“We recently received a North Carolina Green Business award that will allow us to replace the antiquated lighting in the building,” Gottovi added. “We will be able to install modern, energy-efficient lighting.”
Marla Coulthard, associate director of Central Park NC, said that STARworks had helped nominate the Town of Star for the Governor’s Innovative Small Business Community Award.
“Governor Perdue may be coming here to present the award if we win,” Coulthard said.
Wet Dog Glass, a glass furnace manufacturing facility at STARworks, has been nominated for selection as one of 20 “up and coming” small businesses in North Carolina.
In other business, commissioners James Parker, George Kivett and Jennifer Fountain:
• Heard from Mayor Susan Eggleston that the vacant Star Medical Clinic building had been appraised at $251,000. Eggleston suggested that the town consider placing the building on the market later. Commissioners agreed.
• Approved a contract for the town audit with Maxton McDowell CPA in the amount of $6,500. Commissioners voted to add a stipulation that a year-end update be included in the contract.
• Named a committee to review two engineering proposals for the Carolina Growler sewer line extension. The committee will bring their suggestions to the mayor, who will have the authority to negotiate the proposals on behalf of the town.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
MCC hires VP of student services ♥
Published in the Courier-Tribune on June 16, 2011
by Hugh Martin
TROY — Roger D. Reynolds has been hired as vice president of Student Services at Montgomery Community College, replacing Matthew Woodard, who resigned in April.
Reynolds is a native and resident of Biscoe and a graduate of East Montgomery High School and Montgomery Community College.
He has worked 23 years for the N.C. Department of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, most recently as Campus Manager of Samarkand Youth Development Center in Eagle Springs.
During the June meeting of the Montgomery Community College Board of Trustees, President Dr. Mary Kirk told the board that Reynolds had been chosen by a committee of seven from four applicants for the position.
“All four were very, very good,” Kirk said. “Mr. Reynolds rose to the top quickly. While at MCC he was a student ambassador and he told us that his experience here gave him the confidence to go forward and succeed in his career.”
In his letter of acceptance, Reynolds stated that he accepted the offer with “joy and enthusiasm.”
Kirk added that his business style will be good and that she looks forward to his starting work on July 1.
In other business, the board:
• Heard a presentation from Tom Sargent about the Distance Learning program at the college. Sargent told the board that distance learning at MCC was still expanding while other institutions seemed to be leveling off. “Summer use is higher than ever,” he said.
• Learned that the Montgomery County commissioners would budget $764,834.00 for the college for the 2011-2012 fiscal year.
•Approved an interim budget resolution in the event that the state budget is not in place by July 1.
• Accepted the retirement of Ricky Williamson, Auto Body Program instructor. Williamson has held the position for 27 years. The college has decided to discontinue the program due to low enrollment and limited job opportunities in the field.
•Approved an in-kind transfer of a DentX 810 Basic X-ray processor with a value of $355 to the Dental Assistant program from FirstHealth of the Carolinas.
• Viewed a report of monies collected through debt setoff in the amount of $7,724 so far in 2011. These were debts that had previously written off as uncollectible at the May meeting.
• Approved a new self-supporting class policy.
• Approved a blanket travel authorization for Kirk for in-state travel.
• Approved one-year contract renewals for 71 twelve-month full-time faculty and staff. Contracts were also approved for four ten-month full time faculty and staff, 10 permanent part-time faculty and staff, two one-month faculty and one six-month probationary faculty position.
• Approved the 2011-2013 Catalog which will be available online.
• Heard a report on moving some summer classes to the spring and fall semesters because summer classes do not count toward the full-time-equivalent total, which the basis for community colleges funding. Only those classes that would not cause schedule overloads for students will be considered.
• Was introduced by Student Government Association President Sharon Hurley to the 2011-2012 Student Ambassadors, Linda Ashley, Nikki Honeycutt, John Muehlbach and James Christian.
The MCC Board of Trustees does not meet in July.
by Hugh Martin
TROY — Roger D. Reynolds has been hired as vice president of Student Services at Montgomery Community College, replacing Matthew Woodard, who resigned in April.
Reynolds is a native and resident of Biscoe and a graduate of East Montgomery High School and Montgomery Community College.
He has worked 23 years for the N.C. Department of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, most recently as Campus Manager of Samarkand Youth Development Center in Eagle Springs.
During the June meeting of the Montgomery Community College Board of Trustees, President Dr. Mary Kirk told the board that Reynolds had been chosen by a committee of seven from four applicants for the position.
“All four were very, very good,” Kirk said. “Mr. Reynolds rose to the top quickly. While at MCC he was a student ambassador and he told us that his experience here gave him the confidence to go forward and succeed in his career.”
In his letter of acceptance, Reynolds stated that he accepted the offer with “joy and enthusiasm.”
Kirk added that his business style will be good and that she looks forward to his starting work on July 1.
In other business, the board:
• Heard a presentation from Tom Sargent about the Distance Learning program at the college. Sargent told the board that distance learning at MCC was still expanding while other institutions seemed to be leveling off. “Summer use is higher than ever,” he said.
• Learned that the Montgomery County commissioners would budget $764,834.00 for the college for the 2011-2012 fiscal year.
•Approved an interim budget resolution in the event that the state budget is not in place by July 1.
• Accepted the retirement of Ricky Williamson, Auto Body Program instructor. Williamson has held the position for 27 years. The college has decided to discontinue the program due to low enrollment and limited job opportunities in the field.
•Approved an in-kind transfer of a DentX 810 Basic X-ray processor with a value of $355 to the Dental Assistant program from FirstHealth of the Carolinas.
• Viewed a report of monies collected through debt setoff in the amount of $7,724 so far in 2011. These were debts that had previously written off as uncollectible at the May meeting.
• Approved a new self-supporting class policy.
• Approved a blanket travel authorization for Kirk for in-state travel.
• Approved one-year contract renewals for 71 twelve-month full-time faculty and staff. Contracts were also approved for four ten-month full time faculty and staff, 10 permanent part-time faculty and staff, two one-month faculty and one six-month probationary faculty position.
• Approved the 2011-2013 Catalog which will be available online.
• Heard a report on moving some summer classes to the spring and fall semesters because summer classes do not count toward the full-time-equivalent total, which the basis for community colleges funding. Only those classes that would not cause schedule overloads for students will be considered.
• Was introduced by Student Government Association President Sharon Hurley to the 2011-2012 Student Ambassadors, Linda Ashley, Nikki Honeycutt, John Muehlbach and James Christian.
The MCC Board of Trustees does not meet in July.
Monday, June 13, 2011
MCC to opt out of Ford student loan program ♥
Published in the Courier-Tribune on June 14, 2011
actual version sent by the author follows the published version
by Hugh Martin
TROY — Montgomery Community College will not be offering student access to the William D. Ford Federal Direct Student Loan Program now that the N.C. General Assembly has made that option possible.
That decision was made at a June 8 MCC Board of Trustees meeting.
MCC President Dr. Mary Kirk said the concern was that a college could potentially lose future federal financial support if a significant number of students default on the loans. In addition, students could accumulate a tremendous amount of debt for a two-year degree. Ford loans can be used for living expenses as well as tuition.
House Bill 7, that allowed North Carolina community colleges to opt out of the program, was passed in March but vetoed by Gov. Bev Perdue. On Wednesday, the N.C. House passed four local bills that essentially overrides that veto for certain community colleges. Local bills cannot be vetoed by the governor.
Randolph Community College was also included in HB541, along with Alamance Community College, Central Piedmont Community College, Gaston College, Mitchell Community College, Richmond Community College, Robeson Community College, Stanly Community College and Wilkes Community College.
The loans, designed to aid low-income students with college expenses, are administered by the financial aid departments of the community colleges, but the colleges have no control over who receives the loans.
“I believe that this is the best option for this college,” Kirk said of MCC. “Our students can graduate without a pile of debt on their backs.”
Beth Smith, vice president of Student Services, agreed.
“A ridiculous amount of debt would be owed for a two-year degree,” she said. “Loans of $22,000 can be used to cover both education and living expenses.”
“If we did not have funds available through the (MCC) Foundation, then I might look at this differently,” Kirk said.
The Montgomery Community College Foundation is a nonprofit organization that offers funding for students, as well as providing resources for educational programs at the school.
Trustee Sam Martin added that many students who apply for the loans are not aware that defaulted loans cannot be displaced by declaring bankruptcy.
“They will follow you to your casket to take the money out of your pocket,” he said.
“Colleges have local autonomy,” Kirk added. “We have the authority to make the decisions that are best for our students.”
The bill states that “the board of trustees of a college may adopt a resolution declining to participate in the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program. The board of trustees of any college that has declined to participate in the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program through the adoption of a resolution may rescind the resolution and participate in the Program but shall not have the authority to again decline participation in the Program.”
The act will go into effect July 1.
* * * * *
MCC to opt-out of student loan program
By Hugh Martin
TROY – Montgomery Community College may not be offering student access to the William D. Ford Federal Direct Student Loan Program now that the NC General Assembly has made that option possible.
House Bill 7, that allowed North Carolina community colleges to opt-out of the program, was passed in March but vetoed by Governor Perdue.
Last Wednesday, the house passed four local bills that essentially overrides that veto for certain community colleges. Local bills cannot be vetoed by the governor. House Bill 541
The bill states that “the board of trustees of a college may adopt a resolution declining to participate in the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program. The board of trustees of any college that has declined to participate in the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program through the adoption of a resolution may rescind the resolution and participate in the Program but shall not have the authority to again decline participation in the Program."
The loans, designed to aid low-income students with college expenses, are administered by the financial aid departments of the community colleges, but they have no control over who receives the loans.
The concern is, if a college has a significant number of students to default on their loan, then that college could potentially lose future federal financial support.
“I believe that this is the best option for this college,” said MCC President Dr. Mary Kirk. “Our students can graduate without a pile of debt on their backs.”
Beth Smith, Vice President of Student Services agrees. “A ridiculous amount of debt would be owed for a two-year degree,” she said. Loans of $22,000.00 can be used to cover both education and living expenses.
The Montgomery Community College Foundation is a non-profit organization that offers funding for students, as well as providing resources for educational programs at the school.
“If we did not have funds available through the (MCC) Foundation, then I might look at this differently,” Dr. Kirk said.
Board of Trustees member Sam Martin added that many students who apply for the loans are not aware that defaulted loans cannot be displaced by declaring bankruptcy. “They will follow you to your casket to take the money out of your pocket,” he said.
Dr. Kirk added, “Colleges have local autonomy. We have the authority to make the decisions that are best for our students.”
Other NC Community Colleges included in HB541 are: Alamance Community College, Central Piedmont Community College, Gaston College, Mitchell Community College, Randolph Community College, Richmond Community College, Robeson Community College, Stanly Community College, and Wilkes Community College.
The act will go into effect July 1.
# # #
actual version sent by the author follows the published version
by Hugh Martin
TROY — Montgomery Community College will not be offering student access to the William D. Ford Federal Direct Student Loan Program now that the N.C. General Assembly has made that option possible.
That decision was made at a June 8 MCC Board of Trustees meeting.
MCC President Dr. Mary Kirk said the concern was that a college could potentially lose future federal financial support if a significant number of students default on the loans. In addition, students could accumulate a tremendous amount of debt for a two-year degree. Ford loans can be used for living expenses as well as tuition.
House Bill 7, that allowed North Carolina community colleges to opt out of the program, was passed in March but vetoed by Gov. Bev Perdue. On Wednesday, the N.C. House passed four local bills that essentially overrides that veto for certain community colleges. Local bills cannot be vetoed by the governor.
Randolph Community College was also included in HB541, along with Alamance Community College, Central Piedmont Community College, Gaston College, Mitchell Community College, Richmond Community College, Robeson Community College, Stanly Community College and Wilkes Community College.
The loans, designed to aid low-income students with college expenses, are administered by the financial aid departments of the community colleges, but the colleges have no control over who receives the loans.
“I believe that this is the best option for this college,” Kirk said of MCC. “Our students can graduate without a pile of debt on their backs.”
Beth Smith, vice president of Student Services, agreed.
“A ridiculous amount of debt would be owed for a two-year degree,” she said. “Loans of $22,000 can be used to cover both education and living expenses.”
“If we did not have funds available through the (MCC) Foundation, then I might look at this differently,” Kirk said.
The Montgomery Community College Foundation is a nonprofit organization that offers funding for students, as well as providing resources for educational programs at the school.
Trustee Sam Martin added that many students who apply for the loans are not aware that defaulted loans cannot be displaced by declaring bankruptcy.
“They will follow you to your casket to take the money out of your pocket,” he said.
“Colleges have local autonomy,” Kirk added. “We have the authority to make the decisions that are best for our students.”
The bill states that “the board of trustees of a college may adopt a resolution declining to participate in the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program. The board of trustees of any college that has declined to participate in the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program through the adoption of a resolution may rescind the resolution and participate in the Program but shall not have the authority to again decline participation in the Program.”
The act will go into effect July 1.
* * * * *
MCC to opt-out of student loan program
By Hugh Martin
TROY – Montgomery Community College may not be offering student access to the William D. Ford Federal Direct Student Loan Program now that the NC General Assembly has made that option possible.
House Bill 7, that allowed North Carolina community colleges to opt-out of the program, was passed in March but vetoed by Governor Perdue.
Last Wednesday, the house passed four local bills that essentially overrides that veto for certain community colleges. Local bills cannot be vetoed by the governor. House Bill 541
The bill states that “the board of trustees of a college may adopt a resolution declining to participate in the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program. The board of trustees of any college that has declined to participate in the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program through the adoption of a resolution may rescind the resolution and participate in the Program but shall not have the authority to again decline participation in the Program."
The loans, designed to aid low-income students with college expenses, are administered by the financial aid departments of the community colleges, but they have no control over who receives the loans.
The concern is, if a college has a significant number of students to default on their loan, then that college could potentially lose future federal financial support.
“I believe that this is the best option for this college,” said MCC President Dr. Mary Kirk. “Our students can graduate without a pile of debt on their backs.”
Beth Smith, Vice President of Student Services agrees. “A ridiculous amount of debt would be owed for a two-year degree,” she said. Loans of $22,000.00 can be used to cover both education and living expenses.
The Montgomery Community College Foundation is a non-profit organization that offers funding for students, as well as providing resources for educational programs at the school.
“If we did not have funds available through the (MCC) Foundation, then I might look at this differently,” Dr. Kirk said.
Board of Trustees member Sam Martin added that many students who apply for the loans are not aware that defaulted loans cannot be displaced by declaring bankruptcy. “They will follow you to your casket to take the money out of your pocket,” he said.
Dr. Kirk added, “Colleges have local autonomy. We have the authority to make the decisions that are best for our students.”
Other NC Community Colleges included in HB541 are: Alamance Community College, Central Piedmont Community College, Gaston College, Mitchell Community College, Randolph Community College, Richmond Community College, Robeson Community College, Stanly Community College, and Wilkes Community College.
The act will go into effect July 1.
# # #
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Star board prepares for budget hearing ♥
Published in the Courier-Tribune on June 10, 2011
by Hugh Martin
Note: The actual submitted story follows the published copy.
STAR — The Town of Star commissioners have scheduled a public hearing on the 2011-2012 budget at the June 13 meeting in town hall on South Main Street at 5 p.m.
The estimated budget of $708,051 for the next fiscal year is an increase of $62,134 over the current budget. A copy of the budget is available for public viewing at the town hall.
Mayor Susan Eggleston has commended the town department heads for the way they have worked within the budget over the past year.
The proposed budget includes decreases in the police, street and garbage expenses and includes a 2 percent salary increase for town employees, who have not had a raise in four years.
At the May meeting, Commissioner James Parker asked for a 1 percent increase for the police department, but Eggleston said that police officers had already received an increase earlier this year following the resignation of former Police Chief Dempsey Owens, who was elected sheriff of Montgomery County.
The Star branch of the Montgomery County Library would receive $5,800, which is the same amount as last year. This amount would allow the library to continue operating on the same schedule without cutting any hours of service.
“Our library is a hidden treasure,” stated Eggleston. “Claudia (McIntosh) does a great job.”
Star will also have some grant monies passing through the general fund, including $264,000 for the new Frontier Logistics plant and $500,000 for the American and Carolina Growler companies. Frontier Logistics is a material handling company based in La Porte, Texas, that is in the process of locating a warehouse and transfer facility in Star.
Management Advisor John Gowan said that the town has already started working on processing reimbursements for the Frontier Logistics work.
Also included will be the $118,000 STEP grant and $20,000 from RAFI-USA to establish a farmers’ market beside town hall.
A $10,000 grant from Golden Leaf is still pending, but Eggleston told the board members that Star’s request was presently ranked number two for consideration.
Eggleston also said that an appraisal on the medical clinic building, which is owned by the town, had been received and will be discussed at the June 13 meeting.
(Submitted story follows)
Star board prepares for budget hearing
By Hugh Martin
STAR – Star commissioners have settled on an estimated budget for the 2011-2012 fiscal year. The budget of $708,051.00 is an increase of $62,134 over the budget for 2010–2011.
A public hearing on the budget will be held prior to the regular June meeting next Monday, June 13 at 5:00 pm.
Mayor Susan Eggleston commended the town’s department heads for the way they have worked within the budget over the past year.
The proposed budget includes decreases in the Police, Street and Garbage expenses and includes a 2 percent salary increase for town employees. Commissioner James Parker asked if the police department could also receive a 1 percent increase. Eggleston remarked that police officers had already received an increase earlier this year following the resignation of former Police Chief Dempsey Owens, who was elected Sheriff of Montgomery County.
Commissioner Jennifer Fountain said that if there was enough to give the police department another increase then she would rather see employees receive a 3 percent increase. Town employees have not had a raise in four years.
The Star branch of the Montgomery County Library would receive the same amount, $5800.00, as last year if the proposed budget is passed. This amount would allow the library to continue operating on the same schedule without cutting any hours of service. “Our library is a hidden treasure,” stated Eggleston. “Claudia (McIntosh) does a great job.”
Star will also have some grant monies passing through the General Fund, including $264,000 for the new Frontier Logistics plant and $500,000 for the American and Carolina Growler companies.
Management Advisor John Gowan said that the town has already started working on processing reimbursements for the Frontier Logistics work. Frontier Logistics is a material handling company based in La Porte, Texas, that is in the process of locating a warehouse and transfer facility in Star.
Also included will be $118,000.00 for STEP and $20,000.00 from RAFI. A $10,000.00 grant from Golden Leaf is still pending, but Eggleston told the board members that Star’s request was presently ranked #2 for consideration.
Eggleston told board members that an appraisal on the medical clinic building, which is owned by the town, had been received. The appraisal will be discussed at next week’s regular meeting.
# # #
by Hugh Martin
Note: The actual submitted story follows the published copy.
STAR — The Town of Star commissioners have scheduled a public hearing on the 2011-2012 budget at the June 13 meeting in town hall on South Main Street at 5 p.m.
The estimated budget of $708,051 for the next fiscal year is an increase of $62,134 over the current budget. A copy of the budget is available for public viewing at the town hall.
Mayor Susan Eggleston has commended the town department heads for the way they have worked within the budget over the past year.
The proposed budget includes decreases in the police, street and garbage expenses and includes a 2 percent salary increase for town employees, who have not had a raise in four years.
At the May meeting, Commissioner James Parker asked for a 1 percent increase for the police department, but Eggleston said that police officers had already received an increase earlier this year following the resignation of former Police Chief Dempsey Owens, who was elected sheriff of Montgomery County.
The Star branch of the Montgomery County Library would receive $5,800, which is the same amount as last year. This amount would allow the library to continue operating on the same schedule without cutting any hours of service.
“Our library is a hidden treasure,” stated Eggleston. “Claudia (McIntosh) does a great job.”
Star will also have some grant monies passing through the general fund, including $264,000 for the new Frontier Logistics plant and $500,000 for the American and Carolina Growler companies. Frontier Logistics is a material handling company based in La Porte, Texas, that is in the process of locating a warehouse and transfer facility in Star.
Management Advisor John Gowan said that the town has already started working on processing reimbursements for the Frontier Logistics work.
Also included will be the $118,000 STEP grant and $20,000 from RAFI-USA to establish a farmers’ market beside town hall.
A $10,000 grant from Golden Leaf is still pending, but Eggleston told the board members that Star’s request was presently ranked number two for consideration.
Eggleston also said that an appraisal on the medical clinic building, which is owned by the town, had been received and will be discussed at the June 13 meeting.
(Submitted story follows)
Star board prepares for budget hearing
By Hugh Martin
STAR – Star commissioners have settled on an estimated budget for the 2011-2012 fiscal year. The budget of $708,051.00 is an increase of $62,134 over the budget for 2010–2011.
A public hearing on the budget will be held prior to the regular June meeting next Monday, June 13 at 5:00 pm.
Mayor Susan Eggleston commended the town’s department heads for the way they have worked within the budget over the past year.
The proposed budget includes decreases in the Police, Street and Garbage expenses and includes a 2 percent salary increase for town employees. Commissioner James Parker asked if the police department could also receive a 1 percent increase. Eggleston remarked that police officers had already received an increase earlier this year following the resignation of former Police Chief Dempsey Owens, who was elected Sheriff of Montgomery County.
Commissioner Jennifer Fountain said that if there was enough to give the police department another increase then she would rather see employees receive a 3 percent increase. Town employees have not had a raise in four years.
The Star branch of the Montgomery County Library would receive the same amount, $5800.00, as last year if the proposed budget is passed. This amount would allow the library to continue operating on the same schedule without cutting any hours of service. “Our library is a hidden treasure,” stated Eggleston. “Claudia (McIntosh) does a great job.”
Star will also have some grant monies passing through the General Fund, including $264,000 for the new Frontier Logistics plant and $500,000 for the American and Carolina Growler companies.
Management Advisor John Gowan said that the town has already started working on processing reimbursements for the Frontier Logistics work. Frontier Logistics is a material handling company based in La Porte, Texas, that is in the process of locating a warehouse and transfer facility in Star.
Also included will be $118,000.00 for STEP and $20,000.00 from RAFI. A $10,000.00 grant from Golden Leaf is still pending, but Eggleston told the board members that Star’s request was presently ranked #2 for consideration.
Eggleston told board members that an appraisal on the medical clinic building, which is owned by the town, had been received. The appraisal will be discussed at next week’s regular meeting.
# # #
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Candor commissioners approve budget amendment ♥
Published in the Courier-Tribune on June 9, 2011
by Hugh Martin
CANDOR - During a brief meeting Monday night, Candor’s board of commissioners approved a budget amendment, awarded a pine straw bid, agreed to budget funds for a local council and heard an apology from their management advisor, John Gowan.
Gowan apologized for the way that last month’s informational meeting on the proposed bio-mass boiler for the Mountaire facility was publicized as a public hearing and some residents had a misperception of the project.
“It should not have been called a public hearing,” Gowan said. “If it appeared that we were trying to sneak something through, let me reiterate that we will follow all of the notice requirements. If you guys have taken any heat, let me apologize.”
Gowan said he, Town Clerk Tammy Kellis and Public Works Director Brice Hollis have had calls about the project every day.
“We want to be sure that we are all on the same page,” Gowan said.
The next public information meeting has not been scheduled.
On another matter, the board approved a budget amendment to pay $21,100.28 for VIPER-compatible radios for the police department. Police Chief Randy White told board members that the equipment had arrived and consisted of one base unit, seven mobile units, nine portable units and one spare. Funds to buy the equipment had been set aside in January 2010.
The second round of bids for the purchase of pine straw on town property was opened by Mayor Richard Britt. The higher of two bids was J.C. Comer at $1,310. Both bidders had bid $1,200 last month, resulting in the rebid.
Commissioners Tim Smith, Layton Booker, Leslie Thomas, Philip Hearne and Tim Privett approved a request from the Montgomery County Council on Aging for $1,000. The council presently oversees meal sites and home aide services to 14 senior citizens in the Candor area. The approved funds will be included in the 2011-2012 budget.
Consultant Ron Niland presented a draft greenway plan for the town’s recreation committee to review. Niland asked that the committee receive public input on the plan, which initially will address local greenway development and later tie in to the proposed Little River Trail.
A Recreation Master Plan for the town is included in the draft. Niland said that his goal was to have a completed plan to the board by August or September in order to allow sufficient time to write grant proposals. Niland also met with the board in a closed session to discuss land purchase for the fire department.
by Hugh Martin
CANDOR - During a brief meeting Monday night, Candor’s board of commissioners approved a budget amendment, awarded a pine straw bid, agreed to budget funds for a local council and heard an apology from their management advisor, John Gowan.
Gowan apologized for the way that last month’s informational meeting on the proposed bio-mass boiler for the Mountaire facility was publicized as a public hearing and some residents had a misperception of the project.
“It should not have been called a public hearing,” Gowan said. “If it appeared that we were trying to sneak something through, let me reiterate that we will follow all of the notice requirements. If you guys have taken any heat, let me apologize.”
Gowan said he, Town Clerk Tammy Kellis and Public Works Director Brice Hollis have had calls about the project every day.
“We want to be sure that we are all on the same page,” Gowan said.
The next public information meeting has not been scheduled.
On another matter, the board approved a budget amendment to pay $21,100.28 for VIPER-compatible radios for the police department. Police Chief Randy White told board members that the equipment had arrived and consisted of one base unit, seven mobile units, nine portable units and one spare. Funds to buy the equipment had been set aside in January 2010.
The second round of bids for the purchase of pine straw on town property was opened by Mayor Richard Britt. The higher of two bids was J.C. Comer at $1,310. Both bidders had bid $1,200 last month, resulting in the rebid.
Commissioners Tim Smith, Layton Booker, Leslie Thomas, Philip Hearne and Tim Privett approved a request from the Montgomery County Council on Aging for $1,000. The council presently oversees meal sites and home aide services to 14 senior citizens in the Candor area. The approved funds will be included in the 2011-2012 budget.
Consultant Ron Niland presented a draft greenway plan for the town’s recreation committee to review. Niland asked that the committee receive public input on the plan, which initially will address local greenway development and later tie in to the proposed Little River Trail.
A Recreation Master Plan for the town is included in the draft. Niland said that his goal was to have a completed plan to the board by August or September in order to allow sufficient time to write grant proposals. Niland also met with the board in a closed session to discuss land purchase for the fire department.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Will Star town employees get raises in a tight budget? ♥
Published in the Courier-Tribune on May 12, 2011
by Hugh Martin
STAR — As commissioners in the Town of Star begin working on the 2011-2012 budget, Mayor Susan Eggleston wants them to consider adding a few more dollars to the salaries of the employees of the town.
“Our town employees have not had a raise in three years,” Eggleston said. “I’d like for us to consider a raise of 1 or 2 percent, which is not even a cost-of-living increase.”
Eggleston said that she would like to see the town show their appreciation to the employees for the work they do.
“We want to be able to do this without jeopardizing the fund balance,” Eggleston said.
A 1 percent raise for all employees would cost the town $1,500 while a 2 percent raise would cost around $3,000.
Commissioners Richard Hinson and Alice Clemens both said that the town should look into the possibility of raises, while Commissioner George Kivett spoke to the contrary.
“I think I’m the only Democrat in Montgomery County that acts like a Republican,” Kivett said. “We need to be the custodians of the taxpayers’ dollars. I’d like to give everybody ice cream and cake, but we can’t.”
Commissioners will hold an open budget workshop on June 6 at 5 p.m. and the public hearing on the budget will be held on June 13 at 5 p.m. prior to the regular meeting.
In other business, commissioners Clemens, Hinson, Kivett and James Parker:
• Approved a request from Dr. Nancy Gottovi, director of STARworks, for the town to apply for a Community Development Block Grant in the amount of $600,000 for roof repairs on the north end of the facility. Gottovi said that the area to be repaired was needed to house new businesses.
• Heard a report from Commissioner Parker concerning an accident involving police vehicles of the Star and Biscoe Police Departments. Parker said that during a call at the Biscoe Wal-Mart, where the Star officer was providing backup, that the Biscoe officer backed his vehicle into the Star vehicle, causing over $400 in damage. The cost for repair was split between the departments.
• Heard comments from Commissioner Kivett in reference to a fence on North Main Street that needs to be repaired or removed. Public Works Director Wesley Brown will determine who owns the fence and contact the owner.
• Were told by Commissioner Clemens that a cleanup day at the new Heritage Center had been held and updated the board on the progress being made to prepare the site for use as a farmers’ market that is scheduled to open on May 31.
• Heard from Commissioner Parker that funds are now available for the police department to buy new radios. Police Chief Tracey Phillips will be responsible for ordering the new units, which will be compatible with the new VIPER radio system that is being installed in the county.
• Heard budget requirements from Town Clerk Robin Hussey. Mayor Eggleston asked board members to consider funds for the Star Library and the Council on Aging.
• Went into closed session to consult with the town attorney. No action was taken.
by Hugh Martin
STAR — As commissioners in the Town of Star begin working on the 2011-2012 budget, Mayor Susan Eggleston wants them to consider adding a few more dollars to the salaries of the employees of the town.
“Our town employees have not had a raise in three years,” Eggleston said. “I’d like for us to consider a raise of 1 or 2 percent, which is not even a cost-of-living increase.”
Eggleston said that she would like to see the town show their appreciation to the employees for the work they do.
“We want to be able to do this without jeopardizing the fund balance,” Eggleston said.
A 1 percent raise for all employees would cost the town $1,500 while a 2 percent raise would cost around $3,000.
Commissioners Richard Hinson and Alice Clemens both said that the town should look into the possibility of raises, while Commissioner George Kivett spoke to the contrary.
“I think I’m the only Democrat in Montgomery County that acts like a Republican,” Kivett said. “We need to be the custodians of the taxpayers’ dollars. I’d like to give everybody ice cream and cake, but we can’t.”
Commissioners will hold an open budget workshop on June 6 at 5 p.m. and the public hearing on the budget will be held on June 13 at 5 p.m. prior to the regular meeting.
In other business, commissioners Clemens, Hinson, Kivett and James Parker:
• Approved a request from Dr. Nancy Gottovi, director of STARworks, for the town to apply for a Community Development Block Grant in the amount of $600,000 for roof repairs on the north end of the facility. Gottovi said that the area to be repaired was needed to house new businesses.
• Heard a report from Commissioner Parker concerning an accident involving police vehicles of the Star and Biscoe Police Departments. Parker said that during a call at the Biscoe Wal-Mart, where the Star officer was providing backup, that the Biscoe officer backed his vehicle into the Star vehicle, causing over $400 in damage. The cost for repair was split between the departments.
• Heard comments from Commissioner Kivett in reference to a fence on North Main Street that needs to be repaired or removed. Public Works Director Wesley Brown will determine who owns the fence and contact the owner.
• Were told by Commissioner Clemens that a cleanup day at the new Heritage Center had been held and updated the board on the progress being made to prepare the site for use as a farmers’ market that is scheduled to open on May 31.
• Heard from Commissioner Parker that funds are now available for the police department to buy new radios. Police Chief Tracey Phillips will be responsible for ordering the new units, which will be compatible with the new VIPER radio system that is being installed in the county.
• Heard budget requirements from Town Clerk Robin Hussey. Mayor Eggleston asked board members to consider funds for the Star Library and the Council on Aging.
• Went into closed session to consult with the town attorney. No action was taken.
Candor says no to golf carts ♥
Published in the Courier-Tribune on May 12, 2011
by Hugh Martin
CANDOR — Following an animated discussion on a proposed ordinance to allow golf carts to be driven on the town’s streets, Candor commissioners voted to not allow the vehicles to operate.
At the April meeting, Candor resident George Myers had asked the board to consider an ordinance that would allow golf carts in town, renewing a request he had made a year ago. Since that time the Town of Star has approved a golf cart ordinance, Myers said. The board had asked Town Management Advisor John Gowan, who holds the same position with the Town of Star, to adapt the Star ordinance to Candor.
Gowan had prepared an ordinance for the board to consider, but commissioners and Mayor Richard Britt all had reservations.
“I think this is a safety issue,” Britt told the board. “I think if someone wants to drive a golf cart in town then they need to legalize it to meet the same laws as any other vehicle on the street.”
Britt polled the commissioners individually on the proposed ordinance. Commissioners were unanimous in their feelings that safety would be the main issue for anyone operating a cart on the town’s streets.
“I wouldn’t be able to sleep at night knowing that someone was hurt or killed because of an ordinance that my name is on,” Commissioner Tim Smith said.
Myers, who lives in the Sandhill Acres subdivision in Candor, also had issues with some of the wording in the ordinance.
“The Star ordinance doesn’t require seat belts but this one does,” he said. He also felt that there was no difference between golf carts and tractors that use the roads. “They’re up and down the highway all the time,” he said.
The discussion grew heated when Commissioner Tim Privett, who also lives in Sandhill Acres, expressed his opposition to the ordinance.
“I expected you to be against it,” Myers said to Privett.
Before Privett could reply, Britt quickly admonished Myers for his comment and brought the meeting back into order.
Commissioner Phillip Hearne said safety was the key.
“Vehicles fly up and down some of these streets,” Hearne said.
Commissioner Leslie Thomas had concerns with the amount of tractor-trailer traffic on the roads in Candor and the huge difference in the volume of traffic in Candor and in Star.
“I’m worried about kids. Golf carts are fun to drive and anybody could jump on one,” she said.
Commissioner Layton Booker agreed that trucks would have a hard time avoiding a golf cart in the road.
In other business, commissioners:
• Rejected a request from Healthy Kids/Healthy Communities through FirstHealth to apply for a grant to build a community garden on town-owned property because the board could not identify a suitable site that would meet the requirements of the grant.
• Will re-bid the sale of pine straw on town-owned property because the two bids received were for the same amount.
• Made plans for the annual employee appreciation dinner on June 6.
• Scheduled a public hearing on a conditional use permit to allow FLS Energy to construct a biomass boiler facility on a 3-acre leased tract adjacent to the Mountaire facility for May 25 at 7 p.m. The biomass boiler will generate power to operate Mountaire’s chicken food processing facility.
• Heard that a billboard that had fallen during a recent storm would be removed within 30 days and could not be rebuilt because it did not meet current zoning requirements.
• Learned that construction on the walking trail at Fitzgerald Park would begin following the annual N.C. Peach Festival on July 16.
• Heard a report on a recent Robin Sage exercise in town from Police Chief Randy White.
• Received draft copies of a proposed personnel policy for the town.
by Hugh Martin
CANDOR — Following an animated discussion on a proposed ordinance to allow golf carts to be driven on the town’s streets, Candor commissioners voted to not allow the vehicles to operate.
At the April meeting, Candor resident George Myers had asked the board to consider an ordinance that would allow golf carts in town, renewing a request he had made a year ago. Since that time the Town of Star has approved a golf cart ordinance, Myers said. The board had asked Town Management Advisor John Gowan, who holds the same position with the Town of Star, to adapt the Star ordinance to Candor.
Gowan had prepared an ordinance for the board to consider, but commissioners and Mayor Richard Britt all had reservations.
“I think this is a safety issue,” Britt told the board. “I think if someone wants to drive a golf cart in town then they need to legalize it to meet the same laws as any other vehicle on the street.”
Britt polled the commissioners individually on the proposed ordinance. Commissioners were unanimous in their feelings that safety would be the main issue for anyone operating a cart on the town’s streets.
“I wouldn’t be able to sleep at night knowing that someone was hurt or killed because of an ordinance that my name is on,” Commissioner Tim Smith said.
Myers, who lives in the Sandhill Acres subdivision in Candor, also had issues with some of the wording in the ordinance.
“The Star ordinance doesn’t require seat belts but this one does,” he said. He also felt that there was no difference between golf carts and tractors that use the roads. “They’re up and down the highway all the time,” he said.
The discussion grew heated when Commissioner Tim Privett, who also lives in Sandhill Acres, expressed his opposition to the ordinance.
“I expected you to be against it,” Myers said to Privett.
Before Privett could reply, Britt quickly admonished Myers for his comment and brought the meeting back into order.
Commissioner Phillip Hearne said safety was the key.
“Vehicles fly up and down some of these streets,” Hearne said.
Commissioner Leslie Thomas had concerns with the amount of tractor-trailer traffic on the roads in Candor and the huge difference in the volume of traffic in Candor and in Star.
“I’m worried about kids. Golf carts are fun to drive and anybody could jump on one,” she said.
Commissioner Layton Booker agreed that trucks would have a hard time avoiding a golf cart in the road.
In other business, commissioners:
• Rejected a request from Healthy Kids/Healthy Communities through FirstHealth to apply for a grant to build a community garden on town-owned property because the board could not identify a suitable site that would meet the requirements of the grant.
• Will re-bid the sale of pine straw on town-owned property because the two bids received were for the same amount.
• Made plans for the annual employee appreciation dinner on June 6.
• Scheduled a public hearing on a conditional use permit to allow FLS Energy to construct a biomass boiler facility on a 3-acre leased tract adjacent to the Mountaire facility for May 25 at 7 p.m. The biomass boiler will generate power to operate Mountaire’s chicken food processing facility.
• Heard that a billboard that had fallen during a recent storm would be removed within 30 days and could not be rebuilt because it did not meet current zoning requirements.
• Learned that construction on the walking trail at Fitzgerald Park would begin following the annual N.C. Peach Festival on July 16.
• Heard a report on a recent Robin Sage exercise in town from Police Chief Randy White.
• Received draft copies of a proposed personnel policy for the town.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Candor residents want info on bio-mass plant ♥
Published in the Courier-Tribune on June 1, 2011
Errors are bolded and italicized,
by Hugh Martin
CANDOR — A proposed bio-mass boiler facility that would generate thermal energy and electricity to operate the Mountaire Farms plant in Candor has adjacent landowners concerned.
They are questioning the safety and future use of the generator.
During a public hearing May 25, Candor’s Board of Commissioners heard presentations from Brownie Newman of FLS Energy, which would operate the facility. Newman made comparisons between the proposed Candor facility and a bio-mass facility that is expected to locate in Biscoe.
The Biscoe facility, according to Newman, would produce 32 megawatts of power; the Candor facility would produce less than one megawatt. Both facilities would use chicken litter as the primary fuel source.
Newman said Mountaire would make a $7.5 million investment, resulting in annual tax revenues of $40,000 to the town and $55,000 to Montgomery County.
Will Kisner, facility designer with Port-Land Systems, said the 18,000-square-foot building housing the generator would be a pre-engineered metal structure with a single smokestack.
Joe Sullivan of Trinity Consultants, an air quality emissions permitting company, noted the filtering system would be the most efficient available, calling it a “Cadillac system” for this type of operation.
Bill Bruton, who lives adjacent to the Mountaire Farms plant on N.C. 211, stated his concerns about the zoning action and permitting procedure. At present, there is no conditional use for a bio-mass facility in the zoning ordinances.
Bruton said that such a facility should not be located within city limits. In a memo Bruton sent to landowners and tenants near the Mountaire plant, he said the commercial real estate located along the N.C. 211 corridor “holds the most promise for a future valuation increase and tax base increase.”
Bruton also stated that “production of electric power is among the lowest-value land uses that exist,” effectively resulting in a permanent devaluation of the property in the vicinity of the boiler.
“That is why power plants exist only in sparsely populated unincorporated areas, or in the ‘armpits’ of northeastern cities,” Bruton said.
Citing the use of chicken litter as a fuel, Bruton added, “power generation facilities should be out of sight and out of smell of existing or future land development.”
Richard Broker, representing the owners of the vacant Commodore Homes building located immediately across N.C. 211 from the proposed site, expressed concerns about possible odors and property devaluations.
Kisner said that trucks hauling the litter would be sealed and pulled inside the building for unloading. Newman added that the trucks would be washed for bio-security with the effluent going into the municipal sewer system. The fly ash from the facility would be transported outside of the Town of Candor and sold to companies that would use the by-product in the manufacture of fertilizer.
Bruton expressed his concern of the emissions from the plant. Sullivan replied the facility would have to demonstrate compliance for the continuous performance of the filtration equipment.
Russell Hollers, who lives near the site, asked if the company had ever built one of these facilities before. Newman responded they had. (built a similar facility but not one with the same specifications.)
According to Newman, the facility would be highly automated, requiring a minimum of employees. Progress Energy will provide one employee during the day with two employees of the facility on-site to handle deliveries of the litter.
FLS will operate the facility for the first five years, after which Mountaire will take over operations.
Hollers asked what would prevent expansion of the facility to sell more electricity in the future. Newman responded that Mountaire would have no incentive to expand because it would not be economical.
David Harris, who operates a sod farm adjacent to the Mountaire property, said he has a positive relationship with Mountaire, but that he is concerned with breathing the particulates that would be emitted. Sullivan repeated the air quality standards required by N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
Dr. David Bruton, former head of the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services, warned of the health uncertainties involved. He said the board should balance what they would receive against what they would not get because of devalued properties.
Becky Williams, former Candor mayor, asked if solar energy had been considered. Newman responded that it had, but that it would not produce enough heat to produce the steam needed for power generation.
In response to questions, Newman said that 45 (4-5) trucks would service the facility each day and that natural gas would be the ideal fuel, but it is not available in that part of the county.
A second public hearing will be scheduled to continue the discussion of the amendment of the zoning ordinance.
Errors are bolded and italicized,
by Hugh Martin
CANDOR — A proposed bio-mass boiler facility that would generate thermal energy and electricity to operate the Mountaire Farms plant in Candor has adjacent landowners concerned.
They are questioning the safety and future use of the generator.
During a public hearing May 25, Candor’s Board of Commissioners heard presentations from Brownie Newman of FLS Energy, which would operate the facility. Newman made comparisons between the proposed Candor facility and a bio-mass facility that is expected to locate in Biscoe.
The Biscoe facility, according to Newman, would produce 32 megawatts of power; the Candor facility would produce less than one megawatt. Both facilities would use chicken litter as the primary fuel source.
Newman said Mountaire would make a $7.5 million investment, resulting in annual tax revenues of $40,000 to the town and $55,000 to Montgomery County.
Will Kisner, facility designer with Port-Land Systems, said the 18,000-square-foot building housing the generator would be a pre-engineered metal structure with a single smokestack.
Joe Sullivan of Trinity Consultants, an air quality emissions permitting company, noted the filtering system would be the most efficient available, calling it a “Cadillac system” for this type of operation.
Bill Bruton, who lives adjacent to the Mountaire Farms plant on N.C. 211, stated his concerns about the zoning action and permitting procedure. At present, there is no conditional use for a bio-mass facility in the zoning ordinances.
Bruton said that such a facility should not be located within city limits. In a memo Bruton sent to landowners and tenants near the Mountaire plant, he said the commercial real estate located along the N.C. 211 corridor “holds the most promise for a future valuation increase and tax base increase.”
Bruton also stated that “production of electric power is among the lowest-value land uses that exist,” effectively resulting in a permanent devaluation of the property in the vicinity of the boiler.
“That is why power plants exist only in sparsely populated unincorporated areas, or in the ‘armpits’ of northeastern cities,” Bruton said.
Citing the use of chicken litter as a fuel, Bruton added, “power generation facilities should be out of sight and out of smell of existing or future land development.”
Richard Broker, representing the owners of the vacant Commodore Homes building located immediately across N.C. 211 from the proposed site, expressed concerns about possible odors and property devaluations.
Kisner said that trucks hauling the litter would be sealed and pulled inside the building for unloading. Newman added that the trucks would be washed for bio-security with the effluent going into the municipal sewer system. The fly ash from the facility would be transported outside of the Town of Candor and sold to companies that would use the by-product in the manufacture of fertilizer.
Bruton expressed his concern of the emissions from the plant. Sullivan replied the facility would have to demonstrate compliance for the continuous performance of the filtration equipment.
Russell Hollers, who lives near the site, asked if the company had ever built one of these facilities before. Newman responded they had. (built a similar facility but not one with the same specifications.)
According to Newman, the facility would be highly automated, requiring a minimum of employees. Progress Energy will provide one employee during the day with two employees of the facility on-site to handle deliveries of the litter.
FLS will operate the facility for the first five years, after which Mountaire will take over operations.
Hollers asked what would prevent expansion of the facility to sell more electricity in the future. Newman responded that Mountaire would have no incentive to expand because it would not be economical.
David Harris, who operates a sod farm adjacent to the Mountaire property, said he has a positive relationship with Mountaire, but that he is concerned with breathing the particulates that would be emitted. Sullivan repeated the air quality standards required by N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
Dr. David Bruton, former head of the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services, warned of the health uncertainties involved. He said the board should balance what they would receive against what they would not get because of devalued properties.
Becky Williams, former Candor mayor, asked if solar energy had been considered. Newman responded that it had, but that it would not produce enough heat to produce the steam needed for power generation.
In response to questions, Newman said that 45 (4-5) trucks would service the facility each day and that natural gas would be the ideal fuel, but it is not available in that part of the county.
A second public hearing will be scheduled to continue the discussion of the amendment of the zoning ordinance.
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