As published in the Courier-Tribune on December 31, 2011
By Hugh Martin
TROY — The final piece fell into place for the Montgomery County Comprehensive Transportation Plan when Montgomery County Commissioners granted their approval following a public hearing during the regular meeting on Dec. 20.
Hannah Cockburn of the Piedmont Triad Regional Council of Governments and Andy Bailey of North Carolina Department of Transportation presented the plan, which addresses the potential needs of transportation in Montgomery County through the year 2040. The plan had previously been approved by all five municipalities in the county.
In other business, Commissioners Jim Matheny, Edgar Morris, Jackie Morris, Anthony Copeland and Dolon Corbett:
* Reappointed Jackie Morris as board chairman and Corbett as vice chairman.
* Reappointed Michelle Richardson as clerk to the board and Russell Hollers as county attorney.
* Approved the bonds of the sheriff, medical examiner/coroner, register of deeds and the county finance officer.
* Heard an update from Esther Fowler of Brutonville concerning the ongoing attempt to improve conditions of streets in the area.
* Granted a variance for a six-foot setback to allow Mr. and Mrs. Forrest Kirk to construct a bedroom onto their residence in the Shamrock Valley development.
* Approved the appointment of Randy Browning as an extra-territorial jurisdiction member of the Mt. Gilead Planning & Zoning Board.
* Delayed the appointment of a member of the Montgomery County Aging Services Planning Committee until Adrian Calhoun of the Piedmont Triad Regional Council makes a recommendation. The new member will replace Ellie Wiles, who resigned from the committee.
* Heard a finance report from Lisa Roland, finance officer. Commissioner Matheny praised the employees of the county for staying within budget, which has allowed the county to continue to build the county’s fund balance.
* Were advised of ongoing projects of the water system from Matthew Woodard, interim county manager. Construction of new lines in the southeastern area of the county is set to begin in January.
* Were updated on the ongoing renovations at the Montgomery County Airport. The $1.6 million project will require no county funds.
* Heard a report on possible violations of the game room permit at the Uwharrie Sportsman. A public hearing is scheduled for Jan. 23 to address any violations that may be found by the Montgomery County Zoning Board, which oversees the conditional-use permitting of game rooms.
* Approved a request from Russell Strong for a contribution of $4,500 from the county recreation budget for host fees for three Dixie Youth State Softball Tournaments to be held in Troy in April. Over 2,000 patrons are expected to be attending from throughout North Carolina.
Friday, December 30, 2011
Monday, December 26, 2011
Joan Frye named Montgomery Schools Principal of the Year ♥
As published in the Courier-Tribune on December 27, 2011
By Hugh Martin
TROY — Joan Frye, principal of East Montgomery Middle School, was recognized as Principal of the Year during the regular December meeting of the Montgomery County Board of Education.
She was presented a plaque from Superintendent Dr. Dale Ellis and will compete with other award recipients from the Sandhills/South Central Region of the state. Regional award recipients will be selected by February 2012. The 2012 State Wells Fargo Principal of the Year will be announced later in the spring at an event in Raleigh.
“It is a great honor to be selected as Principal of the Year for Montgomery County Schools,” Frye said. “I not only represent the Montgomery County administrators, but I also represent every child and educator in Montgomery County. I will do my very best to serve our county well.”
Frye has worked in education for 37 years. She has been a teacher, assistant principal, principal and principal mentor. She holds an advanced graduate degree in educational administration/supervision from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a master’s of education degree and administration/curriculum specialist certification from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke.
Frye has been the winner of the prestigious Milken Family Foundation National Educator Award and has also been a Principal of the Year for Moore County Schools prior to coming to Montgomery County.
“Joan Frye is a highly skilled, student-focused educational leader who possesses a strong commitment to the development of students, teachers and staff,” said Ellis. “Joan is a visionary with a proven track record in raising student achievement. She will represent Montgomery County Schools well as she moves forward.”
Each regional Wells Fargo Principal of the Year receives a cash award of $3,000 for his or her school and $3,000 for personal use.
Prior to Frye’s presentation, a Resolution of Esteem in memory of the late Louise Dorsett, a retired teacher who passed away in October, was presented to her children, Lewis and Marion, who were present at the meeting.
Dorsett, of Mt. Gilead, was a teacher at West Montgomery High School when she retired.
Board Chairman Steve DeBerry said, “I was fortunate to have had her as my ninth grade Civics teacher. She was a teacher who made a difference. She was truly an asset to the school system and the community.”
“Your mother was a legend,” said Bryan Dozier, a board member.
Following retirement, Dorsett’s interest in education continued as she sat on the Board of Trustees of Montgomery Community College for many years. She was appointed as a trustee in 1989 and upon leaving the board in 2009, was the oldest trustee in the N.C. Community College System.
In other action, the board:
* Presented a Community Partnership Award to Gene Lampley, Bernice Lampley and Buddy Starnes of the Uwharrie Mountain Lodge Restaurant.
* Recognized Green Ridge Elementary School’s Angela Dawkins-Greene as the 2011 Exceptional Children Teacher of Excellence. She was also honored at the N.C. Council for Exceptional Children Conference in November.
By Hugh Martin
TROY — Joan Frye, principal of East Montgomery Middle School, was recognized as Principal of the Year during the regular December meeting of the Montgomery County Board of Education.
She was presented a plaque from Superintendent Dr. Dale Ellis and will compete with other award recipients from the Sandhills/South Central Region of the state. Regional award recipients will be selected by February 2012. The 2012 State Wells Fargo Principal of the Year will be announced later in the spring at an event in Raleigh.
“It is a great honor to be selected as Principal of the Year for Montgomery County Schools,” Frye said. “I not only represent the Montgomery County administrators, but I also represent every child and educator in Montgomery County. I will do my very best to serve our county well.”
Frye has worked in education for 37 years. She has been a teacher, assistant principal, principal and principal mentor. She holds an advanced graduate degree in educational administration/supervision from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a master’s of education degree and administration/curriculum specialist certification from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke.
Frye has been the winner of the prestigious Milken Family Foundation National Educator Award and has also been a Principal of the Year for Moore County Schools prior to coming to Montgomery County.
“Joan Frye is a highly skilled, student-focused educational leader who possesses a strong commitment to the development of students, teachers and staff,” said Ellis. “Joan is a visionary with a proven track record in raising student achievement. She will represent Montgomery County Schools well as she moves forward.”
Each regional Wells Fargo Principal of the Year receives a cash award of $3,000 for his or her school and $3,000 for personal use.
Prior to Frye’s presentation, a Resolution of Esteem in memory of the late Louise Dorsett, a retired teacher who passed away in October, was presented to her children, Lewis and Marion, who were present at the meeting.
Dorsett, of Mt. Gilead, was a teacher at West Montgomery High School when she retired.
Board Chairman Steve DeBerry said, “I was fortunate to have had her as my ninth grade Civics teacher. She was a teacher who made a difference. She was truly an asset to the school system and the community.”
“Your mother was a legend,” said Bryan Dozier, a board member.
Following retirement, Dorsett’s interest in education continued as she sat on the Board of Trustees of Montgomery Community College for many years. She was appointed as a trustee in 1989 and upon leaving the board in 2009, was the oldest trustee in the N.C. Community College System.
In other action, the board:
* Presented a Community Partnership Award to Gene Lampley, Bernice Lampley and Buddy Starnes of the Uwharrie Mountain Lodge Restaurant.
* Recognized Green Ridge Elementary School’s Angela Dawkins-Greene as the 2011 Exceptional Children Teacher of Excellence. She was also honored at the N.C. Council for Exceptional Children Conference in November.
Sunday, December 25, 2011
Montgomery commissioner Dolon Corbett awarded Order of the Longleaf Pine ♥
As published in the Courier-Tribune on December 25, 2011
By Hugh Martin
TROY — Montgomery County Commissioner Dolon Corbett has been awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, one of the most prestigious awards presented by the governor of North Carolina.
N.C. Sen. Jerry Tillman, R-District 29, presented the award to Corbett at the beginning of the Dec. 20 commissioners meeting in Troy.
The Order of the Long Leaf Pine is given to individuals who have a record of extraordinary service to the state, contributions to their communities, extra effort in their careers and many years of service to their organizations.
“It’s wonderful. I am thrilled to death,” Corbett said, adding he was surprised, but had a clue something was up because calls from Tillman’s office kept showing up on caller ID, and his wife, Dorothy, wanted to go to the meeting with him for the first time in 10 years. She was by his side when the award was presented.
“Thank you for this award. I certainly appreciate it. Dot and I do,” Corbett said. He asked Tillman to convey his appreciation to the governor.
Tillman, who presented the award on behalf of Gov. Bev Perdue, said it is not an award that is granted lightly.
“There are not that many of them,” he told those assembled. “It represents a life of service, a life of dedication to your community and to the business world … The hardest jobs in the world are school board and county commissioner. One has to find the money and the other one needs it.”
Corbett, who is in his 10th year as county commissioner, serves as vice chair of the board. He is also a member of the county ABC, Economic Development Corp. and health department boards.
Corbett said public service had always been a part of his and Dot’s life.
“Dot and I have volunteered with many organizations wherever we lived,” Corbett said.
They met at a church youth outing and have been married for 55 years. They have three children, six grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Forty-four years ago, they built a lake house in Montgomery County for vacations and as a place for both their families — Dot is from Concord — to gather on their trips back to North Carolina. When Corbett retired from a management position with Kroger Food Stores 13 years ago, they built a house on the footprint of his homeplace in the Ophir community.
“We were really happy when we got the opportunity to come back to Montgomery County. It is a great place to live and we love it,” Corbett said.
The Order of the Long Leaf Pine award was established in the mid-1960s and, to date, has been presented around 15,000 times. Past recipients include such famous North Carolinians as Maya Angelou, Billy Graham, Rick Hendrick, Michael Jordan and Bob Timberlake.
Other recipients include long-time state employees, prominent business executives, noted politicians, athletes, musicians, actors and advocates.
By Hugh Martin
TROY — Montgomery County Commissioner Dolon Corbett has been awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, one of the most prestigious awards presented by the governor of North Carolina.
N.C. Sen. Jerry Tillman, R-District 29, presented the award to Corbett at the beginning of the Dec. 20 commissioners meeting in Troy.
The Order of the Long Leaf Pine is given to individuals who have a record of extraordinary service to the state, contributions to their communities, extra effort in their careers and many years of service to their organizations.
“It’s wonderful. I am thrilled to death,” Corbett said, adding he was surprised, but had a clue something was up because calls from Tillman’s office kept showing up on caller ID, and his wife, Dorothy, wanted to go to the meeting with him for the first time in 10 years. She was by his side when the award was presented.
“Thank you for this award. I certainly appreciate it. Dot and I do,” Corbett said. He asked Tillman to convey his appreciation to the governor.
Tillman, who presented the award on behalf of Gov. Bev Perdue, said it is not an award that is granted lightly.
“There are not that many of them,” he told those assembled. “It represents a life of service, a life of dedication to your community and to the business world … The hardest jobs in the world are school board and county commissioner. One has to find the money and the other one needs it.”
Corbett, who is in his 10th year as county commissioner, serves as vice chair of the board. He is also a member of the county ABC, Economic Development Corp. and health department boards.
Corbett said public service had always been a part of his and Dot’s life.
“Dot and I have volunteered with many organizations wherever we lived,” Corbett said.
They met at a church youth outing and have been married for 55 years. They have three children, six grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Forty-four years ago, they built a lake house in Montgomery County for vacations and as a place for both their families — Dot is from Concord — to gather on their trips back to North Carolina. When Corbett retired from a management position with Kroger Food Stores 13 years ago, they built a house on the footprint of his homeplace in the Ophir community.
“We were really happy when we got the opportunity to come back to Montgomery County. It is a great place to live and we love it,” Corbett said.
The Order of the Long Leaf Pine award was established in the mid-1960s and, to date, has been presented around 15,000 times. Past recipients include such famous North Carolinians as Maya Angelou, Billy Graham, Rick Hendrick, Michael Jordan and Bob Timberlake.
Other recipients include long-time state employees, prominent business executives, noted politicians, athletes, musicians, actors and advocates.
Wright Foods ahead of schedule to open food processing plant in Troy ♥
As published in the Courier-Tribune on December 25, 2011
by Hugh Martin
TROY — Wright Foods, the new industry locating in Troy’s business park, is ahead of schedule in its preparations to start processing on the site.
Wright Foods, a division of Aseptia, will package food products using technology that was developed at N.C. State University. The process allows fresh food to be packaged in a way that will require no refrigeration.
At a meeting on Dec. 19, Troy Town Manager Greg Zephir told the board that the company expected to close on the building in the park Dec. 21.
“This will allow them to up-fit to begin operations and they have also asked to close on the two pieces of property conveyed by the town,” Zephir said.
One of the properties is the 4 acres the town used for an incentive for the company to locate there, the other being an 8-acre tract the town is selling for $60,000.
Zephir also informed the board that the town has received the contract from Golden Leaf to establish a revolving loan fund to assist Wright Foods with equipment purchases to begin manufacturing product and creating jobs.
In another matter, Chris Watkins took his oath of office from Town Clerk Cathy Maness at the beginning of the meeting. Watkins said that it has “been a pleasure for the past 12 years and I haven’t regretted any moment.” He added that he was sure the next four years will also “be a pleasure.”
Watkins was unable to attend the Dec. 5 meeting when Mayor Roy Maness and Commissioner Wallace Jones, who were both re-elected, took the oath of office.
In other business, Commissioners Watkins, Bruce Hamilton, James Hurley and (Wallace)Jones:
* Approved combining meeting dates for January to one meeting due to holidays. The meeting will be Jan. 9 at 5 p.m.
*Heard an update on the town’s challenge to the census figures. Zephir informed the board that 200 residents have already been added and he expects that 250 more will be counted.
* Commended Teresa Thomas and the staff at the Troy-Montgomery Senior Center for the work that they do and the services that they provide.
“It’s a good thing for our community and Teresa does a good job with it,” Jones said.
by Hugh Martin
TROY — Wright Foods, the new industry locating in Troy’s business park, is ahead of schedule in its preparations to start processing on the site.
Wright Foods, a division of Aseptia, will package food products using technology that was developed at N.C. State University. The process allows fresh food to be packaged in a way that will require no refrigeration.
At a meeting on Dec. 19, Troy Town Manager Greg Zephir told the board that the company expected to close on the building in the park Dec. 21.
“This will allow them to up-fit to begin operations and they have also asked to close on the two pieces of property conveyed by the town,” Zephir said.
One of the properties is the 4 acres the town used for an incentive for the company to locate there, the other being an 8-acre tract the town is selling for $60,000.
Zephir also informed the board that the town has received the contract from Golden Leaf to establish a revolving loan fund to assist Wright Foods with equipment purchases to begin manufacturing product and creating jobs.
In another matter, Chris Watkins took his oath of office from Town Clerk Cathy Maness at the beginning of the meeting. Watkins said that it has “been a pleasure for the past 12 years and I haven’t regretted any moment.” He added that he was sure the next four years will also “be a pleasure.”
Watkins was unable to attend the Dec. 5 meeting when Mayor Roy Maness and Commissioner Wallace Jones, who were both re-elected, took the oath of office.
In other business, Commissioners Watkins, Bruce Hamilton, James Hurley and (Wallace)Jones:
* Approved combining meeting dates for January to one meeting due to holidays. The meeting will be Jan. 9 at 5 p.m.
*Heard an update on the town’s challenge to the census figures. Zephir informed the board that 200 residents have already been added and he expects that 250 more will be counted.
* Commended Teresa Thomas and the staff at the Troy-Montgomery Senior Center for the work that they do and the services that they provide.
“It’s a good thing for our community and Teresa does a good job with it,” Jones said.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Special Candor meeting leaves questions unanswered ☺
The article that was published in collaboration with Mary Anderson in the Courier-Tribune follows this entry.
© 2011 by Hugh Martin - All rights reserved
CANDOR – Following last week’s termination of 80 percent of the Candor Police Department, led by just-sworn Commissioner Wayne Holyfield, many citizens of the town have expressed worries about the lack of police protection.
Monday evening, Candor had the best police protection in Montgomery County with more than fifteen officers of the county sheriff’s department present for what could possibly be the largest turnout for a board of commissioners meeting in the town’s history.
There were lots of questions asked, but very few answers given during the public forum segment of the special called meeting of the Candor Board of Commissioners.
The meeting was called by Commissioner Wayne Holyfield for the purpose of the discussion of police personnel. The request for a public forum was made by Commissioner Layton Booker.
Because of the expectation of a large turnout of citizens the meeting was held in the gymnasium of Candor Elementary School. An estimated crowd of 300 filled the majority of the available seating.
Mayor Richard Britt opened the meeting with a statement that was followed by applause from the majority of those in attendance. “My responsibility is to make sure that public safety is maintained, Britt said. “With that in mind, I have relieved Commissioner Wayne Holyfield as advisor to the police department.”
Britt said that those duties would temporarily be under his control.
Holyfield was appointed commissioner in charge of the police department by Mayor Richard Britt at the regular meeting on December 12. Holyfield’s first action was to call for a closed session. Following the closed session Holyfield made a motion that four of the five full-time officers of the department be terminated immediately.
That motion passed 3-2 with commissioners Tim Privett and Rob Martin joining Holyfield for the vote for termination of the officers.
Those officers were present at the special meeting, accompanied by attorney Arthur Donadio of Southern Pines who advised the officers not to make any statements at this time.
Britt stated that each person speaking could “express their feelings” and questions would be answered by commissioners “as they please. We want to answer your questions if possible.”
Frank Harris of Candor was the first to speak during the public forum.
Harris said he was speaking for “himself and a multitude of irate citizens. We want our police force back in its entirety,” he said. “We would like to have the resignations of Wayne Holyfield, Rob Martin and Tim Privett. We don’t feel that they are acting in the best interest of Candor”
Harris said that he has known Britt and Privett for a long time. “Boys, I’m disappointed at you,” he said. “I’ve always admired and respected you, but to allow something like this to happen in this small town over a small thing as a traffic ticket is outrageous.”
Harris was referring to a 2009 traffic stop in which Candor Police Officer Grant Jackson issued a warning ticket to Teresa Lamonds of Candor. Records at Montgomery County Board of Elections show that Lamonds and her husband, John, made in-kind donations to the campaigns of Holyfield and Martin.
Becky Williams, who was a town commissioner and Mayor of Candor for a combined 38 years asked why the code of ethics was not read prior to the start of the meeting. The code states that any commissioner having a conflict of interest, state so before the meeting begins.
“It was overlooked,” replied Town Clerk Tammy Kellis.
Williams asked that it be read before she began speaking. Kellis complied.
“Does anyone speak to that?” Williams asked the board. There was no response.
“I would like to go on the record as challenging board members Tim Privett, Rob Martin and Wayne Holyfield for the code of conduct and ethics for violations.”
Williams said that she regretted that Britt had not relieved Holyfield of his police commissioner duties at the last meeting.
“Were there any problems or complaints with merit against any of these police officers before December 12 of this year?” Williams asked. There was no response.
“Were Commissioner Martin and Commissioner Holyfield given the Code of Ethics manual and Personnel Policy before that meeting December 12?” Williams asked.
“I haven’t been given anything,” Martin replied.
“But you took actions in lieu of the fact that you didn’t know?” she asked. Martin nodded in the affirmative.
Williams stated that in her time on the board and as mayor that she knew that it was very difficult to fire a police officer.
“We’ve had plenty of bad ones here,” she said. “But these four officers are not the bad ones.”
Williams said that, prior to 2009, she had only had to sit down with the police commissioner and chief of police a couple of times to discuss complaints.
“If you haven’t had those complaints, what happened?” she asked. “These are questions that I am asking to be answered.”
Williams said that the board had “grossly disregarded” the town’s policies on ethics and personnel.
“This is a comedy of errors. You have thrown parliamentary procedure, Robert’s Rule of Order, your Code of Ethics and your personnel policy out the window.” Williams said. “Rob Martin, Wayne Holyfield, you are protected by personnel policy, Rob, you as an employee with the Department of Corrections, Wayne, you as an employee with the State Highway Patrol, but you see fit not to protect these four officers that have done nothing.”
Williams said that she agreed with Harris. “You three need to resign.”
Former commissioner Tim Smith speaking next, requested that, in future board meetings, if a non-agenda item is brought up by the board that the public be allowed to speak. “You can’t sign up if you don’t know what’s going to be talked about,” he said.
Smith said that actions were made on behalf of the town by the new board members, without the knowledge of the sitting board, before they were sworn in.
Smith asked the three commissioners who had voted for the termination, “Was this pre-arranged before the board meeting last Monday night?”
Smith then asked Britt, “Were you aware that this action was going to be taken prior to the meeting last Monday night?”
“Does any board member want to respond to that?” Britt asked the board.
There was no response.
Doug Kemp, representing Klaussner Furniture, expressed their concern about the lack of police protection on behalf of the “350 plus employees and the multi-million dollar investment” that the corporation has in Candor.
Britt assured Kemp and other business owners that Candor is covered 24 hours a day.
Judy Cole of Biscoe praised Commissioner Holyfield for the work that he does as a NC Highway Patrolman. She said that she had never heard of anyone saying that he had disrespected them or felt threatened by him.
“I have heard that about some of these officers that have been dismissed,” she said. “It saddens me that these people are not here tonight to tell their stories. I do have my own personal story against Office Pierce but I’m not going to tell that tonight.”
Rebecca Shepherd of Candor asked that the four officers be reinstated to the department with full benefits and without prejudice.
Lawrence Lamonds, a member of the town’s planning board, tendered his resignation from that board. “I honestly don’t want to be associated with this,” he told the commissioners.
Pedro Garcia, who said that he has lived in Candor for 15 years, told commissioners that people were afraid of the police department. He related a story of being involved in an automobile accident in 2006 and being treated with disrespect. He said that the officer tried to help the driver of the other car and when he later went to the department for a copy of the accident report was told that it was lost.
“The police are not for everybody,” Garcia said. “Let’s work with justice for everybody.”
Irving Brown, attorney for John and Teresa Lamonds, had signed up to speak but passed when his turn came.
Carolyn Blue, owner of Candor Oil Company, praised the service that she has received from the Candor Police Department. “I feel real comfortable that these police cars are up and down the road,” she said. “I recommend them highly.”
Pam Carter of Jackson Springs said that she is saddened that the Candor officers had posted negative comments on Facebook. “It’s embarrassing to me to have friends in Moore County talking about the things that have been said about my brother, the mayor, Richard Britt, and the other commissioners on Facebook.”
Carter said that those who posted the comments should apologize.
“I have proof that they’ve done it because I have printouts at my house that people have given me.”
Carter suggested that it should be added to town policy that employees need to be more professional.
Britt then asked the board members if they had any comments.
Phillip Hearne said that he would like to respond to Becky Williams’ questions.
“I did not see any written warnings against the police department prior to December 12,” he said.
Hearne went on to say that he had many of the same questions that former commissioner Smith had asked. He said that he agreed with Rebecca Shepherd that the officers should be reinstated.
“I come here tonight not only as a board member but as a citizen of Candor and I would just like to know the reason why, and I haven’t gotten it yet. I hope I get it before I leave tonight.”
Hearne said that prior to the December 12 meeting that he had been told that he would be reappointed as Fire Commissioner and that Booker had been the Police Commissioner.
“We didn’t have any problems with the police department, so Mayor, I’d like to know why Commissioner Booker was removed from being the Police Commissioner?” he asked.
“I can pick that position anytime,” Britt responded. “I thought when I picked Wayne Holyfield, with his background, working together with our police department that it would make our town stronger, and like I told you the other night, it can be changed at any time. You can see what happened this week. Wayne Holyfield is not the police commissioner, I am, and it’s a short-term thing.”
Britt said that the businesses and citizens had been covered since December 12 twenty-four hours a day and they will continue to be covered until the force is rebuilt.
Hearne added that he and former Police Chief Randy White had both asked that Holyfield not be appointed Police Commissioner at the December 12 meeting because they both thought it to be a conflict of interest.
“That was denied twice,” he said. “As we have seen already it was a conflict of interest.”
Commissioners Privett and Martin had no comments.
“I’m going to make an open statement before I refuse to answer any questions,” Holyfield said when it was his turn to speak.
“I want to take this opportunity to assure the citizens of Candor that our town will move forward, and that it will continue to be protected as the Candor Police Department is rebuilt.”
Holyfield said that to his knowledge there had been no need for emergency services in the town since the December 12 meeting. He said that the personnel change was a board decision, made for the good of the town.
“Since North Carolina is an at-will state and this is dealing with personnel, I don’t have to give a reason.”
Holyfield wished the four terminated officers his best in their future endeavors.
“At this time I think that it’s important that we remain positive and work together to strengthen our community to make Candor a safer place for our children and citizens,” Holyfield said. ”Change is not easy, and for those who only want to live in the past or present will never see the future.”
Holyfield added that his goal as a board member is to make positive changes and to promote Candor. He then invited the media that was covering the meeting to come back next year for the Peach Festival and the Lawnmower Pull.
Booker said that he was against the “way things went down last Monday night. I think it was an illegal deal. The decision was made before they ever got to the meeting. I think the citizens deserve better than that.”
Britt called on interim Police Chief Eddie Bagwell, who announced that he had two candidates for police positions that he would recommend for employment. He said one, Joseph Majors, could move from part-time to full time and could go to work tomorrow. He said that the other candidate, Barry Lamonds, could work part-time as needed.
The board approved the hiring of the new officers, bringing the police force up to two full-time and one part-time officer working in the town.
Britt and Bagwell both offered their thanks to Sheriff Dempsey Owens for the assistance his department had given the town.
Britt then offered the commissioners another chance to speak.
“How can we move forward when we cannot explain why these officers were fired?” asked Hearne, followed by thunderous applause from many of those in attendance.
“It’s 13 days before Christmas,” Hearne continued. “All these officers have families, and we sit here as a board, Booker and myself, we voted against it, and we can’t give any of them a reason why they got fired. Our town employees are worried that they’re next. Who’s next?”
Hearne said that he didn’t feel that it was right, that the citizens deserve an explanation.
“There’s a personnel policy put in place, that I know Commissioner Privett voted on, that was not followed. Until we do things the right way we can’t move forward."
Britt repeated that he did not support the way that it was done, that it was not done the right way.
“I will support all five of these commissioners when they make a vote,” Britt said. “What they do is for the Town of Candor.”
© 2011 by Hugh Martin - All rights reserved
CANDOR – Following last week’s termination of 80 percent of the Candor Police Department, led by just-sworn Commissioner Wayne Holyfield, many citizens of the town have expressed worries about the lack of police protection.
Monday evening, Candor had the best police protection in Montgomery County with more than fifteen officers of the county sheriff’s department present for what could possibly be the largest turnout for a board of commissioners meeting in the town’s history.
There were lots of questions asked, but very few answers given during the public forum segment of the special called meeting of the Candor Board of Commissioners.
The meeting was called by Commissioner Wayne Holyfield for the purpose of the discussion of police personnel. The request for a public forum was made by Commissioner Layton Booker.
Because of the expectation of a large turnout of citizens the meeting was held in the gymnasium of Candor Elementary School. An estimated crowd of 300 filled the majority of the available seating.
Mayor Richard Britt opened the meeting with a statement that was followed by applause from the majority of those in attendance. “My responsibility is to make sure that public safety is maintained, Britt said. “With that in mind, I have relieved Commissioner Wayne Holyfield as advisor to the police department.”
Britt said that those duties would temporarily be under his control.
Holyfield was appointed commissioner in charge of the police department by Mayor Richard Britt at the regular meeting on December 12. Holyfield’s first action was to call for a closed session. Following the closed session Holyfield made a motion that four of the five full-time officers of the department be terminated immediately.
That motion passed 3-2 with commissioners Tim Privett and Rob Martin joining Holyfield for the vote for termination of the officers.
Those officers were present at the special meeting, accompanied by attorney Arthur Donadio of Southern Pines who advised the officers not to make any statements at this time.
Britt stated that each person speaking could “express their feelings” and questions would be answered by commissioners “as they please. We want to answer your questions if possible.”
Frank Harris of Candor was the first to speak during the public forum.
Harris said he was speaking for “himself and a multitude of irate citizens. We want our police force back in its entirety,” he said. “We would like to have the resignations of Wayne Holyfield, Rob Martin and Tim Privett. We don’t feel that they are acting in the best interest of Candor”
Harris said that he has known Britt and Privett for a long time. “Boys, I’m disappointed at you,” he said. “I’ve always admired and respected you, but to allow something like this to happen in this small town over a small thing as a traffic ticket is outrageous.”
Harris was referring to a 2009 traffic stop in which Candor Police Officer Grant Jackson issued a warning ticket to Teresa Lamonds of Candor. Records at Montgomery County Board of Elections show that Lamonds and her husband, John, made in-kind donations to the campaigns of Holyfield and Martin.
Becky Williams, who was a town commissioner and Mayor of Candor for a combined 38 years asked why the code of ethics was not read prior to the start of the meeting. The code states that any commissioner having a conflict of interest, state so before the meeting begins.
“It was overlooked,” replied Town Clerk Tammy Kellis.
Williams asked that it be read before she began speaking. Kellis complied.
“Does anyone speak to that?” Williams asked the board. There was no response.
“I would like to go on the record as challenging board members Tim Privett, Rob Martin and Wayne Holyfield for the code of conduct and ethics for violations.”
Williams said that she regretted that Britt had not relieved Holyfield of his police commissioner duties at the last meeting.
“Were there any problems or complaints with merit against any of these police officers before December 12 of this year?” Williams asked. There was no response.
“Were Commissioner Martin and Commissioner Holyfield given the Code of Ethics manual and Personnel Policy before that meeting December 12?” Williams asked.
“I haven’t been given anything,” Martin replied.
“But you took actions in lieu of the fact that you didn’t know?” she asked. Martin nodded in the affirmative.
Williams stated that in her time on the board and as mayor that she knew that it was very difficult to fire a police officer.
“We’ve had plenty of bad ones here,” she said. “But these four officers are not the bad ones.”
Williams said that, prior to 2009, she had only had to sit down with the police commissioner and chief of police a couple of times to discuss complaints.
“If you haven’t had those complaints, what happened?” she asked. “These are questions that I am asking to be answered.”
Williams said that the board had “grossly disregarded” the town’s policies on ethics and personnel.
“This is a comedy of errors. You have thrown parliamentary procedure, Robert’s Rule of Order, your Code of Ethics and your personnel policy out the window.” Williams said. “Rob Martin, Wayne Holyfield, you are protected by personnel policy, Rob, you as an employee with the Department of Corrections, Wayne, you as an employee with the State Highway Patrol, but you see fit not to protect these four officers that have done nothing.”
Williams said that she agreed with Harris. “You three need to resign.”
Former commissioner Tim Smith speaking next, requested that, in future board meetings, if a non-agenda item is brought up by the board that the public be allowed to speak. “You can’t sign up if you don’t know what’s going to be talked about,” he said.
Smith said that actions were made on behalf of the town by the new board members, without the knowledge of the sitting board, before they were sworn in.
Smith asked the three commissioners who had voted for the termination, “Was this pre-arranged before the board meeting last Monday night?”
Smith then asked Britt, “Were you aware that this action was going to be taken prior to the meeting last Monday night?”
“Does any board member want to respond to that?” Britt asked the board.
There was no response.
Doug Kemp, representing Klaussner Furniture, expressed their concern about the lack of police protection on behalf of the “350 plus employees and the multi-million dollar investment” that the corporation has in Candor.
Britt assured Kemp and other business owners that Candor is covered 24 hours a day.
Judy Cole of Biscoe praised Commissioner Holyfield for the work that he does as a NC Highway Patrolman. She said that she had never heard of anyone saying that he had disrespected them or felt threatened by him.
“I have heard that about some of these officers that have been dismissed,” she said. “It saddens me that these people are not here tonight to tell their stories. I do have my own personal story against Office Pierce but I’m not going to tell that tonight.”
Rebecca Shepherd of Candor asked that the four officers be reinstated to the department with full benefits and without prejudice.
Lawrence Lamonds, a member of the town’s planning board, tendered his resignation from that board. “I honestly don’t want to be associated with this,” he told the commissioners.
Pedro Garcia, who said that he has lived in Candor for 15 years, told commissioners that people were afraid of the police department. He related a story of being involved in an automobile accident in 2006 and being treated with disrespect. He said that the officer tried to help the driver of the other car and when he later went to the department for a copy of the accident report was told that it was lost.
“The police are not for everybody,” Garcia said. “Let’s work with justice for everybody.”
Irving Brown, attorney for John and Teresa Lamonds, had signed up to speak but passed when his turn came.
Carolyn Blue, owner of Candor Oil Company, praised the service that she has received from the Candor Police Department. “I feel real comfortable that these police cars are up and down the road,” she said. “I recommend them highly.”
Pam Carter of Jackson Springs said that she is saddened that the Candor officers had posted negative comments on Facebook. “It’s embarrassing to me to have friends in Moore County talking about the things that have been said about my brother, the mayor, Richard Britt, and the other commissioners on Facebook.”
Carter said that those who posted the comments should apologize.
“I have proof that they’ve done it because I have printouts at my house that people have given me.”
Carter suggested that it should be added to town policy that employees need to be more professional.
Britt then asked the board members if they had any comments.
Phillip Hearne said that he would like to respond to Becky Williams’ questions.
Hearne went on to say that he had many of the same questions that former commissioner Smith had asked. He said that he agreed with Rebecca Shepherd that the officers should be reinstated.
“I come here tonight not only as a board member but as a citizen of Candor and I would just like to know the reason why, and I haven’t gotten it yet. I hope I get it before I leave tonight.”
Hearne said that prior to the December 12 meeting that he had been told that he would be reappointed as Fire Commissioner and that Booker had been the Police Commissioner.
“We didn’t have any problems with the police department, so Mayor, I’d like to know why Commissioner Booker was removed from being the Police Commissioner?” he asked.
Britt said that the businesses and citizens had been covered since December 12 twenty-four hours a day and they will continue to be covered until the force is rebuilt.
“That was denied twice,” he said. “As we have seen already it was a conflict of interest.”
“I’m going to make an open statement before I refuse to answer any questions,” Holyfield said when it was his turn to speak.
“I want to take this opportunity to assure the citizens of Candor that our town will move forward, and that it will continue to be protected as the Candor Police Department is rebuilt.”
“Since North Carolina is an at-will state and this is dealing with personnel, I don’t have to give a reason.”
Holyfield wished the four terminated officers his best in their future endeavors.
“At this time I think that it’s important that we remain positive and work together to strengthen our community to make Candor a safer place for our children and citizens,” Holyfield said. ”Change is not easy, and for those who only want to live in the past or present will never see the future.”
Holyfield added that his goal as a board member is to make positive changes and to promote Candor. He then invited the media that was covering the meeting to come back next year for the Peach Festival and the Lawnmower Pull.
Britt called on interim Police Chief Eddie Bagwell, who announced that he had two candidates for police positions that he would recommend for employment. He said one, Joseph Majors, could move from part-time to full time and could go to work tomorrow. He said that the other candidate, Barry Lamonds, could work part-time as needed.
The board approved the hiring of the new officers, bringing the police force up to two full-time and one part-time officer working in the town.
Britt and Bagwell both offered their thanks to Sheriff Dempsey Owens for the assistance his department had given the town.
Britt then offered the commissioners another chance to speak.
“It’s 13 days before Christmas,” Hearne continued. “All these officers have families, and we sit here as a board, Booker and myself, we voted against it, and we can’t give any of them a reason why they got fired. Our town employees are worried that they’re next. Who’s next?”
Hearne said that he didn’t feel that it was right, that the citizens deserve an explanation.
“There’s a personnel policy put in place, that I know Commissioner Privett voted on, that was not followed. Until we do things the right way we can’t move forward."
“I will support all five of these commissioners when they make a vote,” Britt said. “What they do is for the Town of Candor.”
Candor commissioners listen but do not respond ♥
As published in the Courier-Tribune December 21, 2011
By Hugh Martin and Mary Anderson
manderson@courier-tribune.com
CANDOR — There were many questions, but few answers from the Candor Board of Commissioners during the public forum at the special called meeting on Monday night.
The questions from eight of the 10 speakers were all the same: Why were four of the town’s five police officers fired at the Dec. 12 meeting? Was the action pre-planned before two new commissioners were sworn in? Doesn’t state law require an employer to state a reason? Why wasn’t the town personnel policy followed? Had there been complaints against the officers?
To applause, three residents called for the resignations of new commissioners Wayne Holyfield, Rob Martin and veteran commissioner Tim Privett. Two speakers reported problems they had with officers and the mayor’s sister commented on hurtful comments on Facebook.
Commissioner Holyfield, who led the move to fire Chief Randall White and officers James Pierce, Grant Jackson and Jeremy Blake, read a prepared statement:
“I’m going to make an opening statement before I refuse to answer any questions. I want … to assure the citizens of Candor that our town will move forward, and that it will continue to be protected as the police department is rebuilt … Since North Carolina is an at-will state and this is dealing with personnel, I don’t have to give a reason.”
Holyfield closed his remarks by inviting the media to come back for the Peach Festival and the Lawnmower Pull in July.
The vote to fire the officers was 3-2 with strong opposition from sitting commissioners Layton Booker and Phillip Hearne. Holyfield later called the special meeting to discuss police personnel. Commissioner Layton Booker insisted on the public forum to hear from residents.
The issue in Candor was the termination of 80 percent of the police force at the regular meeting on Dec. 12, when Holyfield and Rob Martin were sworn in and Mayor Richard Britt appointed Holyfield as police commissioner. Within minutes Holyfield called a closed session on personnel. After that session, the officers were terminated, effective immediately.
Mayor Britt said on Dec. 12 and reiterated on Monday night that he “did not support the way that it was done” but he would support “all five of these commissioners when they make a vote. What they do is for the Town of Candor.”
Britt opened this week’s meeting with a statement that Holyfield had been removed as advisor to the police department and the duties of police commissioner would temporarily be under his control. There was applause from most of the 300 people in the Candor Elementary School gym where the meeting was moved to accommodate the anticpated large turnout.
Since Dec. 12, residents and business owners have expressed worries about the lack of police protection. On Monday night, Candor had the best police protection in Montgomery County with more than 15 deputies present for what was possibly the largest turnout for a meeting in town history.
Commissioner Booker said that he was against the “way things went down last Monday night (Dec. 12). I think it was an illegal deal. The decision was made before they ever got to the meeting. I think the citizens deserve better than that.”
Commissioner Phillip Hearne, said “I come here tonight not only as a board member but as a citizen of Candor and I would just like to know the reason why (the officers were fired), and I haven’t gotten it yet. I hope I get it before I leave tonight.”
He didn’t.
Hearne asked the mayor why Booker had been replaced by Holyfield as police commissioner when there had been no complaints against the department. Britt responded that he could “pick that position at any time. I thought when I picked Wayne Holyfield, with his background, working together with our police department that it would make our town stronger.” (Holyfield is a state trooper.)
Ten people spoke at the public forum. Two, who reported previous issues with Candor officers, said they supported the board’s decision.
Britt said questions would be answered by commissioners “as they please.”
There were no answers, including to questions from commissioners Hearne and Booker.
“How can we move forward when we cannot explain why these officers were fired?” Hearne asked. “It wasn’t right and the citizens deserve an explanation.
“It’s 13 days before Christmas. All these officers have families and we can’t give any of them a reason why they got fired. Our town employees are worried that they’re next. There’s a personnel policy in place, that I know Commissioner Privett voted on, that was not followed. Until we do things the right way we can’t move forward.”
The first speaker, Frank Harris of Candor, said he was speaking for himself and a multitude of irate residents who wanted their police force back in its entirety and called for the resignations of Holyfield, Martin and Privett.
Harris addressed Britt and Privett: “Boys, I’m disappointed in you. I have known you for a long time and I’ve always admired and respected you, but to allow something like this to happen in this small town over a small thing as a traffic ticket is outrageous.”
Harris was referring to a 2009 traffic stop in which Officer Grant Jackson issued a warning ticket for speeding to Teresa Lamonds of Candor.
Lamonds and her husband, John, were accompanied by their attorney, Irving Brown. Lamonds said the meeting had nothing to do with her.
Brown said the meeting “didn’t seem to resolve anything. There is no love lost between the Lamonds and the police department, but they had nothing to do with them being fired.”
Becky Williams, who was a town commissioner and Mayor of Candor for a combined 38 years, asked that the code of ethics be read before she spoke.
“Does anyone speak to that?” Williams asked the board. “I would like to challenge Tim Privett, Rob Martin and Wayne Holyfield for violations of the code of conduct and ethics.”
There was no response.
Williams asked whether Martin and Holyfield had seen the Code of Ethics manual and town personnel policy before Dec. 12. Martin said he hadn’t been given anything.
“But you took actions in spite of the fact that you didn’t know?” she asked.
“This is a comedy of errors. You have thrown parliamentary procedure, Robert’s Rules of Order, your Code of Ethics and your personnel policy out the window.” Williams said. “Martin and Holyfield are protected by personnel policy as state employees with the Department of Correction and the State Highway Patrol, but saw fit not to protect these four officers who have done nothing.”
Doug Kemp, representing Klaussner Furniture, expressed concern about the lack of police protection on behalf of the “350 plus employees and the multi-million dollar investment” that the corporation has in Candor.
Mayor Britt assured Kemp and other business owners that Candor has been covered 24 hours a day since Dec. 12 and will continued to be covered until the force is rebuilt. Britt said he had been in contact with the sheriff every day since Dec. 12.
Owens said after the meeting that Britt may have been in contact with his office, but not him personally. Last Friday, Dec. 16, the town and the sheriff’s office agreed to have a deputy on duty for a 12-hour shift at night — paying for the use of a county patrol car and time-and-half pay for full-time deputies and regular pay for part-time deputies.
Interim chief Eddie Bagwell, the only officer left in Candor, recommended that one part-time and one reserve officer whose certifications and credentials were up to date, be moved to full-time immediately. The vote was unanimous “under the circumstances,” said Hearne.
By Hugh Martin and Mary Anderson
manderson@courier-tribune.com
CANDOR — There were many questions, but few answers from the Candor Board of Commissioners during the public forum at the special called meeting on Monday night.
The questions from eight of the 10 speakers were all the same: Why were four of the town’s five police officers fired at the Dec. 12 meeting? Was the action pre-planned before two new commissioners were sworn in? Doesn’t state law require an employer to state a reason? Why wasn’t the town personnel policy followed? Had there been complaints against the officers?
To applause, three residents called for the resignations of new commissioners Wayne Holyfield, Rob Martin and veteran commissioner Tim Privett. Two speakers reported problems they had with officers and the mayor’s sister commented on hurtful comments on Facebook.
Commissioner Holyfield, who led the move to fire Chief Randall White and officers James Pierce, Grant Jackson and Jeremy Blake, read a prepared statement:
“I’m going to make an opening statement before I refuse to answer any questions. I want … to assure the citizens of Candor that our town will move forward, and that it will continue to be protected as the police department is rebuilt … Since North Carolina is an at-will state and this is dealing with personnel, I don’t have to give a reason.”
Holyfield closed his remarks by inviting the media to come back for the Peach Festival and the Lawnmower Pull in July.
The vote to fire the officers was 3-2 with strong opposition from sitting commissioners Layton Booker and Phillip Hearne. Holyfield later called the special meeting to discuss police personnel. Commissioner Layton Booker insisted on the public forum to hear from residents.
The issue in Candor was the termination of 80 percent of the police force at the regular meeting on Dec. 12, when Holyfield and Rob Martin were sworn in and Mayor Richard Britt appointed Holyfield as police commissioner. Within minutes Holyfield called a closed session on personnel. After that session, the officers were terminated, effective immediately.
Mayor Britt said on Dec. 12 and reiterated on Monday night that he “did not support the way that it was done” but he would support “all five of these commissioners when they make a vote. What they do is for the Town of Candor.”
Britt opened this week’s meeting with a statement that Holyfield had been removed as advisor to the police department and the duties of police commissioner would temporarily be under his control. There was applause from most of the 300 people in the Candor Elementary School gym where the meeting was moved to accommodate the anticpated large turnout.
Since Dec. 12, residents and business owners have expressed worries about the lack of police protection. On Monday night, Candor had the best police protection in Montgomery County with more than 15 deputies present for what was possibly the largest turnout for a meeting in town history.
Commissioner Booker said that he was against the “way things went down last Monday night (Dec. 12). I think it was an illegal deal. The decision was made before they ever got to the meeting. I think the citizens deserve better than that.”
Commissioner Phillip Hearne, said “I come here tonight not only as a board member but as a citizen of Candor and I would just like to know the reason why (the officers were fired), and I haven’t gotten it yet. I hope I get it before I leave tonight.”
He didn’t.
Hearne asked the mayor why Booker had been replaced by Holyfield as police commissioner when there had been no complaints against the department. Britt responded that he could “pick that position at any time. I thought when I picked Wayne Holyfield, with his background, working together with our police department that it would make our town stronger.” (Holyfield is a state trooper.)
Ten people spoke at the public forum. Two, who reported previous issues with Candor officers, said they supported the board’s decision.
Britt said questions would be answered by commissioners “as they please.”
There were no answers, including to questions from commissioners Hearne and Booker.
“How can we move forward when we cannot explain why these officers were fired?” Hearne asked. “It wasn’t right and the citizens deserve an explanation.
“It’s 13 days before Christmas. All these officers have families and we can’t give any of them a reason why they got fired. Our town employees are worried that they’re next. There’s a personnel policy in place, that I know Commissioner Privett voted on, that was not followed. Until we do things the right way we can’t move forward.”
The first speaker, Frank Harris of Candor, said he was speaking for himself and a multitude of irate residents who wanted their police force back in its entirety and called for the resignations of Holyfield, Martin and Privett.
Harris addressed Britt and Privett: “Boys, I’m disappointed in you. I have known you for a long time and I’ve always admired and respected you, but to allow something like this to happen in this small town over a small thing as a traffic ticket is outrageous.”
Harris was referring to a 2009 traffic stop in which Officer Grant Jackson issued a warning ticket for speeding to Teresa Lamonds of Candor.
Lamonds and her husband, John, were accompanied by their attorney, Irving Brown. Lamonds said the meeting had nothing to do with her.
Brown said the meeting “didn’t seem to resolve anything. There is no love lost between the Lamonds and the police department, but they had nothing to do with them being fired.”
Becky Williams, who was a town commissioner and Mayor of Candor for a combined 38 years, asked that the code of ethics be read before she spoke.
“Does anyone speak to that?” Williams asked the board. “I would like to challenge Tim Privett, Rob Martin and Wayne Holyfield for violations of the code of conduct and ethics.”
There was no response.
Williams asked whether Martin and Holyfield had seen the Code of Ethics manual and town personnel policy before Dec. 12. Martin said he hadn’t been given anything.
“But you took actions in spite of the fact that you didn’t know?” she asked.
“This is a comedy of errors. You have thrown parliamentary procedure, Robert’s Rules of Order, your Code of Ethics and your personnel policy out the window.” Williams said. “Martin and Holyfield are protected by personnel policy as state employees with the Department of Correction and the State Highway Patrol, but saw fit not to protect these four officers who have done nothing.”
Doug Kemp, representing Klaussner Furniture, expressed concern about the lack of police protection on behalf of the “350 plus employees and the multi-million dollar investment” that the corporation has in Candor.
Mayor Britt assured Kemp and other business owners that Candor has been covered 24 hours a day since Dec. 12 and will continued to be covered until the force is rebuilt. Britt said he had been in contact with the sheriff every day since Dec. 12.
Owens said after the meeting that Britt may have been in contact with his office, but not him personally. Last Friday, Dec. 16, the town and the sheriff’s office agreed to have a deputy on duty for a 12-hour shift at night — paying for the use of a county patrol car and time-and-half pay for full-time deputies and regular pay for part-time deputies.
Interim chief Eddie Bagwell, the only officer left in Candor, recommended that one part-time and one reserve officer whose certifications and credentials were up to date, be moved to full-time immediately. The vote was unanimous “under the circumstances,” said Hearne.
Friday, December 16, 2011
Candor calls special meeting to discuss police ♥
As published in the Courier-Tribune on December 16, 2011
by Hugh Martin
CANDOR — Town of Candor Board of Commissioners will hold a special called meeting on Monday, Dec. 19, at 7 p.m. to discuss police personnel. The meeting was called by Commissioner Wayne Holyfield, who made the motion to fire four of five Candor police officers at the regular meeting on Dec. 12.
The fired officers all collected the money that was owed to them by the town on Tuesday. The total $5,944.63 that was paid to the former officers included salary, accrued compensation time and vacation, as required by North Carolina law.
Commissioner Layton Booker requested that the Dec. 19 meeting also be an opportunity for public input, and is being called a “Public Question/Answer Period.”
Town clerk Tammy Kellis said the meeting is scheduled to be in the Town Hall meeting room, although it may be changed to a larger venue due to the overwhelming response from area citizens.
A notice will be posted at Town Hall.
The firing of four of the town’s five police officers — Chief Randy White and officers James Pierce, Grantland Jackson and Jeremy Blake — has developed into a firestorm that has polarized the town’s citizens and has been the leading topic of discussion around town, on social media sites and numerous television newscasts.
The one officer who was not terminated, Eddie Bagwell, was named interim chief and is now the only officer on the Candor police department.
Bagwell said that he is mainly concerned about providing police coverage for the town.
“My understanding from the police commissioner is that the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office is handling calls, but not patrolling the town” when he is not on duty, Bagwell said..
Bagwell would not comment any further. He said he had been instructed not to make any statements at this time.
Montgomery County Sheriff Dempsey Owens said Tuesday that his department does not have the manpower to assign a deputy to Candor nor have one on stand-by, but will respond in emergency situations.
Kellis said citizens have called about a rumored investigation by the N.C. Attorney General’s Office, but she said the town has not heard from the Attorney General.
At the regular monthly meeting held this past Monday night, the board of commissioners carried out their regular business meeting after the closed session and termination of the four officers.
Employees will receive annual bonuses of $300 for department head and $200 for all other employees. The holiday bonus was postponed from the July budget meeting because it could not be determined at that time whether Candor could afford the bonuses.
Kellis said lower than expected spending during the first half of the fiscal year saved enough to cover the bonuses.
The terminated officers will also get the bonuses because they were employed by the town when bonuses were approved, according to Ron Niland, management advisor for the town.
Commissioners Martin, Holyfield, Booker, Tim Privett, Phillip Hearne and Mayor Richard Britt presented a plaque of appreciation to outgoing commissioner Tim Smith, who had served on the board for 12 years.
(Outgoing commissioner) Leslie Thomas, who had originally been appointed to fill a vacant position and was elected for a full term, was not present at the December meeting.
by Hugh Martin
CANDOR — Town of Candor Board of Commissioners will hold a special called meeting on Monday, Dec. 19, at 7 p.m. to discuss police personnel. The meeting was called by Commissioner Wayne Holyfield, who made the motion to fire four of five Candor police officers at the regular meeting on Dec. 12.
The fired officers all collected the money that was owed to them by the town on Tuesday. The total $5,944.63 that was paid to the former officers included salary, accrued compensation time and vacation, as required by North Carolina law.
Commissioner Layton Booker requested that the Dec. 19 meeting also be an opportunity for public input, and is being called a “Public Question/Answer Period.”
Town clerk Tammy Kellis said the meeting is scheduled to be in the Town Hall meeting room, although it may be changed to a larger venue due to the overwhelming response from area citizens.
A notice will be posted at Town Hall.
The firing of four of the town’s five police officers — Chief Randy White and officers James Pierce, Grantland Jackson and Jeremy Blake — has developed into a firestorm that has polarized the town’s citizens and has been the leading topic of discussion around town, on social media sites and numerous television newscasts.
The one officer who was not terminated, Eddie Bagwell, was named interim chief and is now the only officer on the Candor police department.
Bagwell said that he is mainly concerned about providing police coverage for the town.
“My understanding from the police commissioner is that the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office is handling calls, but not patrolling the town” when he is not on duty, Bagwell said..
Bagwell would not comment any further. He said he had been instructed not to make any statements at this time.
Montgomery County Sheriff Dempsey Owens said Tuesday that his department does not have the manpower to assign a deputy to Candor nor have one on stand-by, but will respond in emergency situations.
Kellis said citizens have called about a rumored investigation by the N.C. Attorney General’s Office, but she said the town has not heard from the Attorney General.
At the regular monthly meeting held this past Monday night, the board of commissioners carried out their regular business meeting after the closed session and termination of the four officers.
Employees will receive annual bonuses of $300 for department head and $200 for all other employees. The holiday bonus was postponed from the July budget meeting because it could not be determined at that time whether Candor could afford the bonuses.
Kellis said lower than expected spending during the first half of the fiscal year saved enough to cover the bonuses.
The terminated officers will also get the bonuses because they were employed by the town when bonuses were approved, according to Ron Niland, management advisor for the town.
Commissioners Martin, Holyfield, Booker, Tim Privett, Phillip Hearne and Mayor Richard Britt presented a plaque of appreciation to outgoing commissioner Tim Smith, who had served on the board for 12 years.
(Outgoing commissioner) Leslie Thomas, who had originally been appointed to fill a vacant position and was elected for a full term, was not present at the December meeting.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
MCC Trustees to vote on total tobacco ban ♥
As published in the Courier-Tribune on December 12, 2011
by Hugh Martin
TROY — A proposal to make the campus of Montgomery Community College 100 percent tobacco-free will be voted on by college trustees at their next meeting on Jan. 11, 2012.
MCC President Dr. Mary Kirk distributed the proposed policy at the October meeting of the board for the first reading and a vote in January. The board does not meet in December.
Kirk said the issue of a tobacco-free campus came up because high school students will be on campus regularly next year to take college-level courses. All facilities of the Montgomery County Schools system are 100 percent tobacco-free.
Tobacco is already restricted in MCC buildings, with designated areas available for tobacco use. If the policy is approved, it will prohibit smoking and use of other tobacco products by students, staff, faculty, or visitors in all campus buildings, facilities or property owned, leased or operated by MCC, including outside areas, on campus grounds, facilities or vehicles that are the property of the college.
The policy would also be in force at lectures, conferences, meetings and social or cultural events held on college property or campus grounds.
Student organizations are now prohibited from accepting money or gifts from tobacco companies. The ban would expand to include events sponsored by tobacco companies, distribution of free, reduced-price, or fully-priced tobacco products, such as T-shirts and hats, on campus and all tobacco advertising.
The Mid-Atlantic Woodsmen’s Meet and the Stihl Timbersports Competition, which will be broadcast nationwide on ESPNU and the Outdoor Channel, will take place at the college in April. This event would not be affected because the policy would not be implemented until Aug. 1, 2012.
Student Government Association President Sharon Hurley told trustees that, as word of the policy has spread on campus, she had been hearing negative comments from tobacco users.
“I have had some students tell me that they will leave school if the policy goes into effect,” Hurley said.
Kirk asked Hurley, “Do you think they would really leave?”
Hurley responded, “I don’t know, but I would hate to think that someone would end their college career because they weren’t able to smoke a cigarette.”
Kirk said reaction to the proposed policy has been mixed.
An online survey administered by the college was completed by administrators, faculty, staff and students in which 64.3 percent of respondents said that they were not bothered by secondhand smoke on campus while 33.1 percent indicated that they were. The remaining respondents said they didn’t know.
Support for the policy was about evenly divided with 49.7 percent in favor, 40.1 percent said no and 10.2 percent said that they didn’t know.
The policy calls for MCC to provide students and employees with information on quitting. Over 65 percent of the respondents were in favor of a program to help people quit tobacco use on campus.
The policy states that students and employees who continue to use tobacco products will be subject to the disciplinary actions according to the Student Code of Conduct and MCC Board Policy.
by Hugh Martin
TROY — A proposal to make the campus of Montgomery Community College 100 percent tobacco-free will be voted on by college trustees at their next meeting on Jan. 11, 2012.
MCC President Dr. Mary Kirk distributed the proposed policy at the October meeting of the board for the first reading and a vote in January. The board does not meet in December.
Kirk said the issue of a tobacco-free campus came up because high school students will be on campus regularly next year to take college-level courses. All facilities of the Montgomery County Schools system are 100 percent tobacco-free.
Tobacco is already restricted in MCC buildings, with designated areas available for tobacco use. If the policy is approved, it will prohibit smoking and use of other tobacco products by students, staff, faculty, or visitors in all campus buildings, facilities or property owned, leased or operated by MCC, including outside areas, on campus grounds, facilities or vehicles that are the property of the college.
The policy would also be in force at lectures, conferences, meetings and social or cultural events held on college property or campus grounds.
Student organizations are now prohibited from accepting money or gifts from tobacco companies. The ban would expand to include events sponsored by tobacco companies, distribution of free, reduced-price, or fully-priced tobacco products, such as T-shirts and hats, on campus and all tobacco advertising.
The Mid-Atlantic Woodsmen’s Meet and the Stihl Timbersports Competition, which will be broadcast nationwide on ESPNU and the Outdoor Channel, will take place at the college in April. This event would not be affected because the policy would not be implemented until Aug. 1, 2012.
Student Government Association President Sharon Hurley told trustees that, as word of the policy has spread on campus, she had been hearing negative comments from tobacco users.
“I have had some students tell me that they will leave school if the policy goes into effect,” Hurley said.
Kirk asked Hurley, “Do you think they would really leave?”
Hurley responded, “I don’t know, but I would hate to think that someone would end their college career because they weren’t able to smoke a cigarette.”
Kirk said reaction to the proposed policy has been mixed.
An online survey administered by the college was completed by administrators, faculty, staff and students in which 64.3 percent of respondents said that they were not bothered by secondhand smoke on campus while 33.1 percent indicated that they were. The remaining respondents said they didn’t know.
Support for the policy was about evenly divided with 49.7 percent in favor, 40.1 percent said no and 10.2 percent said that they didn’t know.
The policy calls for MCC to provide students and employees with information on quitting. Over 65 percent of the respondents were in favor of a program to help people quit tobacco use on campus.
The policy states that students and employees who continue to use tobacco products will be subject to the disciplinary actions according to the Student Code of Conduct and MCC Board Policy.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Two new commissioners, mayor sworn in Star ♥
As published in the Courier-Tribune December 15, 2011
by Hugh Martin
STAR - Star Mayor Susan Eggleston began her second term and newly elected commissioners Eddie Bernard and Steve Lassiter took their seats during the regular meeting of the town board Dec. 13.
Bernard and Lassiter take the seats of George Kivett, who did not seek re-election after one four-year term, and James Parker, who had been a board member for 12 years.
Eggleston welcomed the new members and awarded a plaque of appreciation to Parker. Kivett has not attended meetings for several months because of health issues and will receive his plaque in private.
“It’s a low-paying, thankless job,” Eggleston said to the outgoing commissioners. “Nobody in town has their heart in Star any more than George Kivett.”
Parker expressed his appreciation for the support that he had received as a commissioner. “I’ve enjoyed serving the public,” he said.
Eggleston also expressed her appreciation for the support and patience that she has received during her first term.
“It’s been an interesting two years,” she said.
Commissioner Richard Hinson reported that he had been contacted about damage to some of the town’s Christmas decorations.
Public Works Director Wesley Brown attributed the damage to large trucks that he believes are purposely hitting the ornaments on Main Street through the town.
In other business, Hinson, Bernard, Lassiter, Jennifer Fountain and Alice Clemens:
* Heard a report from Eggleston on activities that took place throughout the community on Dec. 10, specifically the first Twinkletoes 5K, Cub Scout “Cubmobile” Race, the Star Elementary School Craft Bazaar and the annual Star Christmas Parade.
* Commended the Police, Fire and Public Works departments for doing a good job in general and during the activities.
* Planned a work session for 4 p.m. on Jan. 4 at the Town Hall.
* Heard from Town Clerk Robin Hussey that she plans to advertise for bids to purchase the former medical clinic building. Two previous advertisements for bids received no response. Hussey is looking into the possibility of placing the property with a real estate agent in the event that the third advertisement is unsuccessful.
by Hugh Martin
STAR - Star Mayor Susan Eggleston began her second term and newly elected commissioners Eddie Bernard and Steve Lassiter took their seats during the regular meeting of the town board Dec. 13.
Bernard and Lassiter take the seats of George Kivett, who did not seek re-election after one four-year term, and James Parker, who had been a board member for 12 years.
Eggleston welcomed the new members and awarded a plaque of appreciation to Parker. Kivett has not attended meetings for several months because of health issues and will receive his plaque in private.
“It’s a low-paying, thankless job,” Eggleston said to the outgoing commissioners. “Nobody in town has their heart in Star any more than George Kivett.”
Parker expressed his appreciation for the support that he had received as a commissioner. “I’ve enjoyed serving the public,” he said.
Eggleston also expressed her appreciation for the support and patience that she has received during her first term.
“It’s been an interesting two years,” she said.
Commissioner Richard Hinson reported that he had been contacted about damage to some of the town’s Christmas decorations.
Public Works Director Wesley Brown attributed the damage to large trucks that he believes are purposely hitting the ornaments on Main Street through the town.
In other business, Hinson, Bernard, Lassiter, Jennifer Fountain and Alice Clemens:
* Heard a report from Eggleston on activities that took place throughout the community on Dec. 10, specifically the first Twinkletoes 5K, Cub Scout “Cubmobile” Race, the Star Elementary School Craft Bazaar and the annual Star Christmas Parade.
* Commended the Police, Fire and Public Works departments for doing a good job in general and during the activities.
* Planned a work session for 4 p.m. on Jan. 4 at the Town Hall.
* Heard from Town Clerk Robin Hussey that she plans to advertise for bids to purchase the former medical clinic building. Two previous advertisements for bids received no response. Hussey is looking into the possibility of placing the property with a real estate agent in the event that the third advertisement is unsuccessful.
New Candor commissioners lead terminations of police officers ♥
Submitted to the Courier-Tribune for publication December 14, 2011. The actual published article may have been edited.
by Hugh Martin
CANDOR – Newly sworn town commissioner Wayne Holyfield wasted no time in what appeared to be a planned action to terminate the majority of the Candor police force.
Holyfield was appointed commissioner in charge of the police department by Mayor Richard Britt at the regular December meeting at which Holyfield and Rob Martin were sworn as new commissioners, replacing Leslie Thomas and Tim Smith.
In his closing words as commissioner, Smith reminded the new board members that they had been elected to serve all the citizens of Candor. “Commissioners aren’t elected to serve just the ones who voted for them,” he said before stepping away from the table after twelve years on the board.
Following Holyfield’s appointment as police commissioner, board member Phillip Hearne voiced his objection to the appointment, telling Britt that he felt it to be a conflict of interest.
Hearne asked to go on record as opposing the appointment because Holyfield is a Trooper with the North Carolina Highway Patrol stationed in Montgomery County. Addressing Britt, Hearne said, “I feel that it’s a conflict, but apparently you don’t because you put him there.” Hearne said his concern was that Holyfield also has a “working relationship” with Candor police and therefore should not be in charge of the department.
“Duties of the commissioners can be changed,” Britt replied. “If I see that there’s a problem it can be changed. I did it last year and I can do it again.”
Britt was referring to a change he made in 2010, moving Commissioner Layton Booker to oversee the police department rather than Commissioner Tim Privett due to tensions between Candor Police Chief Randy White and Privett.
Holyfield thanked the voters that elected him and immediately made a motion to go into closed session to discuss personnel.
Booker spoke up in opposition to the motion. “We approved the agenda at the beginning of this meeting and a closed session was not a part of it,” he said. “I don’t think it’s right to do that.”
“That’s a legal question that I can’t answer,” management consultant Ron Niland replied when he was asked if it was allowed.
At that point, Police Chief White asked that Holyfield be taken off as police commissioner, to which Britt refused.
White continued speaking, stating that Holyfield was backed by someone who had active lawsuits against the town and police departments. “It’s a conflict of interest,” White said. “It’s not fair to my men,” he said, indicating three uniformed officers of the department who stood at the rear of the meeting room.
“I cannot stand here and let someone put their thumb on us,” White continued. “I will answer to Layton (Booker) and Philip (Hearne) as usual,” he said. “He (Holyfield) tried to intervene in one of our cases that didn’t even apply to him.”
Niland, in an attempt to bring order to the meeting, told White that “this is not the time or place.”
Britt told White that his request was denied. “That’s not the way it is,” he said.
“That’s the way it will be,” White replied.
At that time Martin seconded Holyfield’s motion to go into closed session.
Upon a vote on the motion there was no opposition voiced. The board room was cleared of all spectators, who waited outdoors for an hour while the board was in closed session.
Upon resuming the open meeting, Commissioner Holyfield instructed Major Robert Lawing of the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office to maintain order in the room while he spoke.
“I want to make a motion to terminate, effective immediately, Police Chief Randy White, Officer Pierce, Officer Jackson and Officer Blake,” Holyfield announced.
His motion was seconded by Martin.
Hearne stated that he was strongly opposed to the action. “There has been no reason why these officers are being terminated,” he said. "Our attorney has not been consulted. This doesn’t feel right.” Hearne said that there had been no conflict and that he had always had a good relationship with the police department. He again referred to Holyfield’s appointment as a conflict of interest.
Booker also spoke up, stating his opposition. “There was no reason given for this,” he said. “This is opening the town up to all kinds of lawsuits. Our attorney has not been informed. I don’t want my name anywhere in it.”
Britt then spoke. “I want to say that I am totally against it,” he said. “I don’t feel it’s the right way, but the board has spoken.”
Britt then instructed Town Clerk Tammy Kellis to take a vote on the motion by having each commissioner state his name and his vote. Commissioners Privett, Holyfield and Martin each voted “Yes,” while both Hearne and Booker voted, “Absolutely not.”
Holyfield then made another motion, to appoint Officer Eddie Bagwell as Interim Chief of Police with the assistance of the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Department. Martin again offered the second to the motion.
Britt asked, “Officer Bagwell, are you willing to do this?”
Bagwell responded, “Yes, for the good of the town.”
Again, each commissioner stated his name, followed by how they voted. Privet, Holyfield and Martin voted “Yes,” Hearne and Booker each voted, “Yes, under the circumstances.”
Holyfield then made a motion that the terminated officers would turn all equipment and accessories in to Major Lawing and Deputy Eric Morgan immediately. Again, Martin made the second.
Privett, Holyfield and Martin voted in the affirmative while Hearne and Booker said they would not vote on the motion. Clerk Kellis recorded their votes as being no.
White asked about the equipment that they had at their residences and was told that the terminated officers would be given time to turn any uniforms and other town property in as soon as possible.
Martin then made a motion that former NC State Highway Patrol Trooper Eric Jackson be “hired immediately at regular police pay.”
Discussion on proper hiring procedures overshadowed the motion.
“Has he even applied?” Hearne asked.
“I haven’t received any paperwork,” Kellis answered.
“There haven’t been any openings,” Martin responded.
Niland said that the hiring could take place pending background checks and proof of proper certification.
At that point the meeting was adjourned.
Former commissioner Smith approached the table and asked if there was any police protection in Candor. Britt told him that there was.
“Is Bagwell going to be on duty 24 hours a day?” Smith asked. Holyfield stated that he would be assisted by the Sheriff’s Department.
As he left the room, Teresa Lamonds, who had executed the lawsuit that White had referred to during the meeting, shouted at Smith, “Maybe the police will come to your house and you’ll get tasered!”
Following the meeting Hearne repeated his opposition to the actions that had just occurred. “I’m totally against this,” he said. “Here it is, Christmas time. These men have kids and family, and now they’re out of a job.”
CLARIFICATION: When commissioners Hearne and Booker stated that they did not want to vote on the motion for turning in the equipment, Town Clerk Kellis told them that she had to hear ir, to which they then voted "No." State law requires that a refusal to vote would actually be recorded as a "yes" vote. I apologize to Ms. Kellis for the error in the published article.
by Hugh Martin
CANDOR – Newly sworn town commissioner Wayne Holyfield wasted no time in what appeared to be a planned action to terminate the majority of the Candor police force.
Holyfield was appointed commissioner in charge of the police department by Mayor Richard Britt at the regular December meeting at which Holyfield and Rob Martin were sworn as new commissioners, replacing Leslie Thomas and Tim Smith.
In his closing words as commissioner, Smith reminded the new board members that they had been elected to serve all the citizens of Candor. “Commissioners aren’t elected to serve just the ones who voted for them,” he said before stepping away from the table after twelve years on the board.
Following Holyfield’s appointment as police commissioner, board member Phillip Hearne voiced his objection to the appointment, telling Britt that he felt it to be a conflict of interest.
Hearne asked to go on record as opposing the appointment because Holyfield is a Trooper with the North Carolina Highway Patrol stationed in Montgomery County. Addressing Britt, Hearne said, “I feel that it’s a conflict, but apparently you don’t because you put him there.” Hearne said his concern was that Holyfield also has a “working relationship” with Candor police and therefore should not be in charge of the department.
“Duties of the commissioners can be changed,” Britt replied. “If I see that there’s a problem it can be changed. I did it last year and I can do it again.”
Britt was referring to a change he made in 2010, moving Commissioner Layton Booker to oversee the police department rather than Commissioner Tim Privett due to tensions between Candor Police Chief Randy White and Privett.
Holyfield thanked the voters that elected him and immediately made a motion to go into closed session to discuss personnel.
Booker spoke up in opposition to the motion. “We approved the agenda at the beginning of this meeting and a closed session was not a part of it,” he said. “I don’t think it’s right to do that.”
“That’s a legal question that I can’t answer,” management consultant Ron Niland replied when he was asked if it was allowed.
At that point, Police Chief White asked that Holyfield be taken off as police commissioner, to which Britt refused.
White continued speaking, stating that Holyfield was backed by someone who had active lawsuits against the town and police departments. “It’s a conflict of interest,” White said. “It’s not fair to my men,” he said, indicating three uniformed officers of the department who stood at the rear of the meeting room.
“I cannot stand here and let someone put their thumb on us,” White continued. “I will answer to Layton (Booker) and Philip (Hearne) as usual,” he said. “He (Holyfield) tried to intervene in one of our cases that didn’t even apply to him.”
Niland, in an attempt to bring order to the meeting, told White that “this is not the time or place.”
Britt told White that his request was denied. “That’s not the way it is,” he said.
“That’s the way it will be,” White replied.
At that time Martin seconded Holyfield’s motion to go into closed session.
Upon a vote on the motion there was no opposition voiced. The board room was cleared of all spectators, who waited outdoors for an hour while the board was in closed session.
Upon resuming the open meeting, Commissioner Holyfield instructed Major Robert Lawing of the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office to maintain order in the room while he spoke.
“I want to make a motion to terminate, effective immediately, Police Chief Randy White, Officer Pierce, Officer Jackson and Officer Blake,” Holyfield announced.
His motion was seconded by Martin.
Hearne stated that he was strongly opposed to the action. “There has been no reason why these officers are being terminated,” he said. "Our attorney has not been consulted. This doesn’t feel right.” Hearne said that there had been no conflict and that he had always had a good relationship with the police department. He again referred to Holyfield’s appointment as a conflict of interest.
Booker also spoke up, stating his opposition. “There was no reason given for this,” he said. “This is opening the town up to all kinds of lawsuits. Our attorney has not been informed. I don’t want my name anywhere in it.”
Britt then spoke. “I want to say that I am totally against it,” he said. “I don’t feel it’s the right way, but the board has spoken.”
Britt then instructed Town Clerk Tammy Kellis to take a vote on the motion by having each commissioner state his name and his vote. Commissioners Privett, Holyfield and Martin each voted “Yes,” while both Hearne and Booker voted, “Absolutely not.”
Holyfield then made another motion, to appoint Officer Eddie Bagwell as Interim Chief of Police with the assistance of the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Department. Martin again offered the second to the motion.
Britt asked, “Officer Bagwell, are you willing to do this?”
Bagwell responded, “Yes, for the good of the town.”
Again, each commissioner stated his name, followed by how they voted. Privet, Holyfield and Martin voted “Yes,” Hearne and Booker each voted, “Yes, under the circumstances.”
Holyfield then made a motion that the terminated officers would turn all equipment and accessories in to Major Lawing and Deputy Eric Morgan immediately. Again, Martin made the second.
Privett, Holyfield and Martin voted in the affirmative while Hearne and Booker said they would not vote on the motion. Clerk Kellis recorded their votes as being no.
White asked about the equipment that they had at their residences and was told that the terminated officers would be given time to turn any uniforms and other town property in as soon as possible.
Martin then made a motion that former NC State Highway Patrol Trooper Eric Jackson be “hired immediately at regular police pay.”
Discussion on proper hiring procedures overshadowed the motion.
“Has he even applied?” Hearne asked.
“I haven’t received any paperwork,” Kellis answered.
“There haven’t been any openings,” Martin responded.
Niland said that the hiring could take place pending background checks and proof of proper certification.
At that point the meeting was adjourned.
Former commissioner Smith approached the table and asked if there was any police protection in Candor. Britt told him that there was.
“Is Bagwell going to be on duty 24 hours a day?” Smith asked. Holyfield stated that he would be assisted by the Sheriff’s Department.
As he left the room, Teresa Lamonds, who had executed the lawsuit that White had referred to during the meeting, shouted at Smith, “Maybe the police will come to your house and you’ll get tasered!”
Following the meeting Hearne repeated his opposition to the actions that had just occurred. “I’m totally against this,” he said. “Here it is, Christmas time. These men have kids and family, and now they’re out of a job.”
CLARIFICATION: When commissioners Hearne and Booker stated that they did not want to vote on the motion for turning in the equipment, Town Clerk Kellis told them that she had to hear ir, to which they then voted "No." State law requires that a refusal to vote would actually be recorded as a "yes" vote. I apologize to Ms. Kellis for the error in the published article.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Troy police target speeders in school zone ♥
As published in the Courier-Tribune December 13, 2011
Hugh Martin
TROY —Concern for walkers and elementary schoolchildren has led Troy police to focus on speeders on North Main Street and Russell Street. The Troy Board of Commissioners approved and suggested other speed-prone areas at the Dec. 5 meeting.
Town Manager Greg Zephir reported on the increase in the number of police traffic stops on two of the most heavily-traveled streets in town.
“During the last week many of you have probably noticed that the town’s police department has been performing traffic stops, specifically on North Main and Russell Streets,” Zephir said. “This is in response to numerous complaints that the department has been receiving about the high rate of speed people are traveling on these roads.”
Police Chief Kenny Allen told the board that the stops are an effort to bring awareness to the 20 mph zone.
North Main Street is designated as a 20 mph speed zone and Troy Elementary School is located on North Russell Street. Both streets have sections of the town’s measured walking trail along them. Some of the complaints about the speeding vehicles were made by citizens who use the “Troy Walks” program for exercise.
Zephir said there were also safety concerns for the schoolchildren.
“The Town of Troy, specifically the police department, does not want to issue tickets; however, staff had to provide a response with regards to the amount of complaints we had been receiving,” Zephir said. “Most, if not all, of those being stopped believed the speed limit was 35. ”
Allen was commended by Mayor Roy Maness for the work that the department was doing.
Commissioner Wallace Jones asked Allen if there were plans to target other zones after the current activity is complete.
“No, we’re not that formal,” Allen replied, “but we try to take a proactive stance.”
“We have problems with speeding throughout the town,” Wallace said.
Allen assured Wallace and the board that areas of concern were being addressed and that his department will continue to take care of any issues that need attention.
Hugh Martin
TROY —Concern for walkers and elementary schoolchildren has led Troy police to focus on speeders on North Main Street and Russell Street. The Troy Board of Commissioners approved and suggested other speed-prone areas at the Dec. 5 meeting.
Town Manager Greg Zephir reported on the increase in the number of police traffic stops on two of the most heavily-traveled streets in town.
“During the last week many of you have probably noticed that the town’s police department has been performing traffic stops, specifically on North Main and Russell Streets,” Zephir said. “This is in response to numerous complaints that the department has been receiving about the high rate of speed people are traveling on these roads.”
Police Chief Kenny Allen told the board that the stops are an effort to bring awareness to the 20 mph zone.
North Main Street is designated as a 20 mph speed zone and Troy Elementary School is located on North Russell Street. Both streets have sections of the town’s measured walking trail along them. Some of the complaints about the speeding vehicles were made by citizens who use the “Troy Walks” program for exercise.
Zephir said there were also safety concerns for the schoolchildren.
“The Town of Troy, specifically the police department, does not want to issue tickets; however, staff had to provide a response with regards to the amount of complaints we had been receiving,” Zephir said. “Most, if not all, of those being stopped believed the speed limit was 35. ”
Allen was commended by Mayor Roy Maness for the work that the department was doing.
Commissioner Wallace Jones asked Allen if there were plans to target other zones after the current activity is complete.
“No, we’re not that formal,” Allen replied, “but we try to take a proactive stance.”
“We have problems with speeding throughout the town,” Wallace said.
Allen assured Wallace and the board that areas of concern were being addressed and that his department will continue to take care of any issues that need attention.
Monday, December 5, 2011
Candor approves conditional use permit for biomass facility ♥
As published in the Courier-Tribune on or about November 10, 2011
By Hugh Martin
CANDOR – Following a public hearing at their November meeting Monday night, Candor Board of Commissioners gave their approval to a conditional use permit to allow the construction and operation of a biomass facility within the city limits.
NC CHP Owner 1 LLC, a North Carolina company, requested the permit to build and operate the plant, which will be sited on a 3.1 acre segment of the 140 acre Mountaire Farms feed mill complex in Candor.
The facility will burn wood chips to manufacture thermal energy in the form of steam that will be used in the chicken feed manufacturing process. Less than ½ megawatt of electricity will be produced for sale to Progress Energy in the process.
Brownie Newman, representing the applicant, said that of the more than 160 wood-fired boilers in North Carolina, this facility will be the cleanest.
Retired commercial banker Bill Bruton spoke in opposition to the project.
Attorney Bob Hornik of the Brough Law Firm in Chapel Hill moderated the hearing on behalf of the town.
In finding that the application met all seven provisions required by the conditional uses section of the town’s zoning ordinance the board voted unanimously to approve the permit.
In other business, Commissioners Tim Privett, Phillip Hearne, Tim Smith, Leslie Thomas and Layton Booker:
• Were introduced to Ashley Sherrill, who was hired November 1 as Assistant Director of the Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation. Sherrill will become director on July 1, 2012 following the retirement of current Director Judy Stevens;
• Gave approval to a proposed Montgomery County Transportation Plan as it pertains to the town. The plan had been approved earlier by the Troy Board of Commissioners and will also be presented to the other three municipal boards in the county and the Montgomery County Commissioners;
• Approved a contract extension from October 31 to December 31 to Maxton McDowell CPA for auditing services;
• Heard suggestions from former mayor Becky Williams on the need for the town to develop strategic plans for sidewalk, street and street light expenditures;
• Approved a request from Commissioner Thomas that Gail Britt of Britt Catering be approved to provide sugar cookies and hot chocolate for 400 people during the town’s Christmas Tree Lighting at a cost of $350.00;
• Heard a report from Management Advisor Ron Niland that he had a meeting scheduled with the owner of the Candor Shopping Center to discuss the condition of the property;
• Heard another report from Niland that he and Public Works Director Brice Hollis had been working on the planning for a 1/5 mile walking trail at the town park.
By Hugh Martin
CANDOR – Following a public hearing at their November meeting Monday night, Candor Board of Commissioners gave their approval to a conditional use permit to allow the construction and operation of a biomass facility within the city limits.
NC CHP Owner 1 LLC, a North Carolina company, requested the permit to build and operate the plant, which will be sited on a 3.1 acre segment of the 140 acre Mountaire Farms feed mill complex in Candor.
The facility will burn wood chips to manufacture thermal energy in the form of steam that will be used in the chicken feed manufacturing process. Less than ½ megawatt of electricity will be produced for sale to Progress Energy in the process.
Brownie Newman, representing the applicant, said that of the more than 160 wood-fired boilers in North Carolina, this facility will be the cleanest.
Retired commercial banker Bill Bruton spoke in opposition to the project.
Attorney Bob Hornik of the Brough Law Firm in Chapel Hill moderated the hearing on behalf of the town.
In finding that the application met all seven provisions required by the conditional uses section of the town’s zoning ordinance the board voted unanimously to approve the permit.
In other business, Commissioners Tim Privett, Phillip Hearne, Tim Smith, Leslie Thomas and Layton Booker:
• Were introduced to Ashley Sherrill, who was hired November 1 as Assistant Director of the Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation. Sherrill will become director on July 1, 2012 following the retirement of current Director Judy Stevens;
• Gave approval to a proposed Montgomery County Transportation Plan as it pertains to the town. The plan had been approved earlier by the Troy Board of Commissioners and will also be presented to the other three municipal boards in the county and the Montgomery County Commissioners;
• Approved a contract extension from October 31 to December 31 to Maxton McDowell CPA for auditing services;
• Heard suggestions from former mayor Becky Williams on the need for the town to develop strategic plans for sidewalk, street and street light expenditures;
• Approved a request from Commissioner Thomas that Gail Britt of Britt Catering be approved to provide sugar cookies and hot chocolate for 400 people during the town’s Christmas Tree Lighting at a cost of $350.00;
• Heard a report from Management Advisor Ron Niland that he had a meeting scheduled with the owner of the Candor Shopping Center to discuss the condition of the property;
• Heard another report from Niland that he and Public Works Director Brice Hollis had been working on the planning for a 1/5 mile walking trail at the town park.
Troy awarded for excellence in financial reporting ♥
As published in the Courier-Tribune on or about November 10, 2011
By Hugh Martin
TROY – For the seventeenth time the Town of Troy has been awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States.
Troy Mayor Roy Maness presented the award to Cathy Maness, Town Clerk, during the November 7 meeting of the town board of commissioners.
“Not many towns get this award,” Mayor Maness said. “We’re proud of the job that has been done year after year, even before we ever knew this award was available.”
Town Clerk Maness said that she alone did not receive the award. “It’s a team effort,” she said.
In other business, Commissioners Angela Elkins, Bruce Hamilton, James Hurley, Chris Watkins and Wallace Jones:
• Were introduced to Ashley Sherrill, who was recently hired as Assistant Director of the Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation. Sherrill will become director on July 1, 2012 following the retirement of current director Judy Stevens;
• Gave approval to a proposed Montgomery County Transportation Plan as it pertains to the town. The plan will also be presented to each municipal board in the county and the Montgomery County Commissioners;
• Approved a resolution to apply $5000.00 of a NC Rural Center grant to assist with some of the cost of grease buildup in the town sewer system;
• Approved a resolution to seek a Vacant Building Reuse grant from the NC Rural Development Center in the amount of $480,000.00 for use by Wright Foods in renovation of the facility they will occupy in the Troy Business Center. The town will provide a 5 percent match in the form of the value of adjacent land for future expansion by the company;
• Approved a façade grant of up to $1000.00 to Joann Blair Adams for renovations made to a commercial property on North Main Street;
• Approved December 26, 27 and 28 for the Christmas Holiday Schedule when all town offices will be closed;
• Learned from Town Manager Greg Zephir that Mayor Maness’ request for an investigation into gasoline price differences between the Troy area and surrounding had been taken over by the office of Congressman Kissell;
• Heard a report from Zephir on a proposed performance stage to be located in the downtown area;
•Thanked Zephir for his work on the recent banquet honoring the Troy Fire Department’s centennial.
By Hugh Martin
TROY – For the seventeenth time the Town of Troy has been awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States.
Troy Mayor Roy Maness presented the award to Cathy Maness, Town Clerk, during the November 7 meeting of the town board of commissioners.
“Not many towns get this award,” Mayor Maness said. “We’re proud of the job that has been done year after year, even before we ever knew this award was available.”
Town Clerk Maness said that she alone did not receive the award. “It’s a team effort,” she said.
In other business, Commissioners Angela Elkins, Bruce Hamilton, James Hurley, Chris Watkins and Wallace Jones:
• Were introduced to Ashley Sherrill, who was recently hired as Assistant Director of the Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation. Sherrill will become director on July 1, 2012 following the retirement of current director Judy Stevens;
• Gave approval to a proposed Montgomery County Transportation Plan as it pertains to the town. The plan will also be presented to each municipal board in the county and the Montgomery County Commissioners;
• Approved a resolution to apply $5000.00 of a NC Rural Center grant to assist with some of the cost of grease buildup in the town sewer system;
• Approved a resolution to seek a Vacant Building Reuse grant from the NC Rural Development Center in the amount of $480,000.00 for use by Wright Foods in renovation of the facility they will occupy in the Troy Business Center. The town will provide a 5 percent match in the form of the value of adjacent land for future expansion by the company;
• Approved a façade grant of up to $1000.00 to Joann Blair Adams for renovations made to a commercial property on North Main Street;
• Approved December 26, 27 and 28 for the Christmas Holiday Schedule when all town offices will be closed;
• Learned from Town Manager Greg Zephir that Mayor Maness’ request for an investigation into gasoline price differences between the Troy area and surrounding had been taken over by the office of Congressman Kissell;
• Heard a report from Zephir on a proposed performance stage to be located in the downtown area;
•Thanked Zephir for his work on the recent banquet honoring the Troy Fire Department’s centennial.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)