Sanford awarded “Playful City U.S.A.” Status

 

The following is an earlier post followed by an article written by Gordon Anderson of the Sanford Herald.  I posted both of these items representing the beginning of the “Playful City” idea and the presentation of the award.

One of the many interesting workshops at the Congress of Cities meeting in Orlando was “Building a Playful City.” This also seemed to be one of the most attended workshops.

A panel of five discussed the many challenges children face today that end up keeping them off the playground and out of the park.  Time spent on computers, video games, and television were high on the list of reasons not to play and exercise.  This was followed by the “I’m bored” with nothing to do story.  Finally, some of our youth are just plain lazy.

We were told that forty-seven percent of children in America are over weight.  It was also estimated that fifty-two percent of elementary schools across the country have tatally eliminated recess. 

One member of the panel told a story about the school his child attended.  The school was changing the menu in the cafeteria and planned on only offering healthier items. This would eliminate Sloppy Joe’s, etc. as a lunch item.  A public hearing was held on the issue and an over two hundred parents attended to voice their displeasure with this new plan

Several weeks later a public hearing was also held concerning the elimination of recess at the school.  At this public hearing, only two parents came to voice their opposition to this idea.  Seems that these childrens parents priorities are a little mixed up on what should really be important, I believe.

KaBOOM ( www.kaboom.org) is an organization that helps cities become “Playful Cities.”  Their goal is to have a safe place for children to play within walking distance from their home.  There are five requirements for cities that wish to be designated a “Playful City.” These commitments are:

1. Create a local play commission task force
2. Design an annual action plan for play
3. Conduct a play-space audit of all publicly accessible play areas
4. Identify current spending on capital projects and maintenance of play-spaces
5. Proclaim and celebrate an annual “Play Day.”

By becoming a “Playful City USA,” your city can receive grants, technical support, on-line resources, media support, playground builds, and more.  Most of all you will be letting your community that your are committed in making your city a place where children can have access to safe, clean play facilities.

There are only 67 “Playful Cities” out of the over five thousand cities in the United States. I believe Sanford should become a “Playful City USA.” We’re on the right track now with the new pocket park program.  This will take more effort, time and funding. I believe this type investment in our community and our children is long over due.

(end of first post)

City gets recognition for bringing back “play’

By GORDON ANDERSON
anderson@sanfordherald.com
Jul 16,2009

SANFORD — Sanford has been named by a national non-profit dedicated to bringing play back into the lives of children as one of 93 cities in the country that take innovative steps to making play a priority for the health and well-being of young people.

National non-profit agency KaBOOM! has named Sanford as one of its Playful City USA communities, citing the work of its “Play Task Force,” its development of “pocket parks” throughout the city and plans for parks in east Sanford.

“Sanford took a stand and determined that the future of their community — their children — deserve a commitment to the cause of play. This is an investment in the future, not an expenditure, and cities and towns across the country can replicate initiatives from these Playful City USA communities so that they too can bring play back into the lives of their children,” said Darell Hammond, KaBOOM! CEO.

Sanford Mayor Cornelia Olive said the city council is “delighted” to have the designation.

“We’re at an early stage of developing our parks and open space strategies so we are very pleased to receive this recognition of our efforts,” she said. “We continue to partner with Lee County for recreation programs but we’ve recognized the need for a city of 30,000 to be actively engaged in creating play opportunities for our children.”

Of the 93 communities named, five were in North Carolina. Other than Sanford, they are Durham, Greensboro, Greenville, and Creedmoor.

anderson@sanfordherald.com

Future Possibilities: Solar Powerd Trash Compactors

The “Big Belly” solar powered trash compactor  was just one of the many new innovative items and ideas presented at the National League of Cities Exposition in Orlando, Florida.   http://www.bigbellysolar.com/ 

“Big Belly” uses 100% solar power.  This unit does not need direct sunlight and is designed with shade from buildings and trees, etc. in mind. 

This unit holds five times the volume of a normal sized trash container.  City crews would have to empty this can five times less than a regular trash container.  Depending on the location, this type unit could be an asset to many cities. 

 Areas such as parks, green-ways, etc. that are off the beaten path, would be perfect for ”Big Belly.”  These areas are subject to small amounts of litter, not bagged trash from passing automobiles.  The volume of trash is fairly predictable and vehicle traffic in these areas could be kept to a bare minimal.

“Big Belly” cost a little more than twice as much as a decorative trash container.  This cost difference, possible dump savings, the pros and the cons, would have to be discussed before possibly choosing “Big Belly” for locati0ns in our city.  With the city beginning to get more and more involved with parks and green-ways…..cost saving ideas like this may be just around the corner.

Sanford/Lee 2nd Century Is In Full Swing

The following article by Mary Elle Hunter was taken from the Carolina Business Journal.

      Lee County, formed in 1907 from parts of Chatham, Moore and Harnett counties, is marking its 2nd century with a concerted effort by a group of business and community leaders to promote Sanford, the county seat, and the county itself as a primary destination in which to live, work and play in the greater Triangle region of North Carolina.  In October a much-anticipated new logo and tagline for the city and the county were unveiled, together with an economic and community action plan to further advance the quality of life that its 60,000+ residents currently enjoy.

      The Second Century team, leading the drive, was organized late last year at the suggestion of Norman Block and Ray Covington, private citizens with business interests in Lee County.  Kirk Bradley, one of those initially approached by the pair, relates how Block and Covington came up with the idea of getting a group of concerned individuals together to discuss the possibility of providing private funding for promoting Sanford and Lee County.

      Bradley says the first meeting was attended by about 50 people.   That number was winnowed down to a steering committee or Research Team, of which Bradley became chairman.  The team then arranged with Rose & Associates Southeast of Davidson, NC and Arnett Muldrow & Associates of Columbia, SC to act as consultants for Phase 1 of the project.

        At the recent unveiling of the logo and tagline, Bradley said,
”We want others to know the rich history and bright future our area offers.  This is only the beginning of the many great things that will come out of the project, and we are proud the residents of Sanford and Lee County are standing behind and supporting this endeavor.”

      The logo was designed to demonstrate the classic, yet progressive, spirit of Lee County. The tagline, “Well Centered,” describes both the geographic elements and the quality of life that the community represents.

      Plans call for the Sanford Area Chamber of Commerce, with its 600 members, to work with other organizations to implement the community action plan, and the Chamber will oversee the implementation of the marketing plan.  According to Bob Joyce, President of the Chamber, the goal of the Second Century project was to create a brand identity that conveys the unique characteristics that make the county the perfect place to live, work and play.  “This effort must engage everyone and all of us must be aware of the community’s desire to promote the best about the place we call home.”

      Now as the Second Century project team moves into the next phase of its five-year plan, it would appear that they have momentum on their side.  A goal to raise $250,000 for funding the marketing campaign in Phase 2 has already resulted in commitments being received for $150,000 of that amount.  Kirk Bradley hopes that they will be able to raise the balance by mid-February.

      At a November meeting, the Second Century team met with several local officials to receive an update on present and future projects.  Sanford Community Development Director Bob Bridwell provided a review of the plans his department has for the city, including beautification efforts to roads.  For the downtown area of Sanford, the plans call for updates to the walkways and older buildings, as well as a greenway project already underway.

      County Manager John Crumpton described the county’s Capital Improvements Plan, which includes renovations to Lee County High School.  He said, “We have some big projects to tackle and some serious financial obstacles to overcome.”

      Later on, Crumpton observed the exciting part about the Second Century project is the way the local businesses have embraced the concept for a branding and marketing effort for the county.  “Right now, we have given our encouragement to these efforts, but we haven’t been asked for, or made, any financial commitment to the program.  Ordinarily the exact opposite would be true, and that is the reason I think the Second Century program is going to be successful.”

      Over the course of the last four years, major changes have been made in the infrastructure of Lee County, including completion of a county-wide water system, completion of several four-lane road improvements throughout the county, and the construction of two new schools – a high school and a middle school – as well as substantial improvements to the industrial park.  All of which provides a good basis for the launching of the Second Century team’s marketing campaign.

      The county tax rate is another plus that can be used as one of the reasons people should take a look at Lee County.  Despite an increase in 2004 to cover new bonded indebtedness for the two new schools, the tax rate is still at a reasonable 75 cents per thousand, and the goal of the county is to keep the rate at the same level until the next revaluation in 2011.

      When asked about the effects on the county’s financial picture by the national economic downturn, County Manager Crumpton related that they have put a freeze on all hiring for vacant positions.  We had eight that were already open, and they, as well as any new vacancies, will be held open until the economy gets better.

      “In addition, we have cut back on any out of state or overnight travel, on capital equipment, purchases, and we have developed budget reduction plans of 2 and 4 percent to address any revenue shortfalls.  At the present time, the county has put most capital projects on hold.  However, we are still working on school renovations and the repairs of the San-Lee Dam Recreational facility.”

      The optimistic side of the picture, however, is that even in these bleak economic times, according to Kirk Bradley, the Second Century project seems to have strong support.  “The entire community appears to be very enthusiastic about moving forward with the marketing campaign, as well as an action plan to improve all aspects of quality of life issues in our community.”

      Chamber of Commerce President Bob Joyce agrees that the Second Century project has a better chance for success than past comparable efforts.  “What makes this one different is we are better communicators this time, and we are not reinventing the wheel.  We’ve got a lot of things already working for us.  We just have to get them working together.”

      As an example, Joyce points to the city’s and the county’s cultural assets.  A pottery tradition which includes artisans such as the world-renowned Cole family, whose work is displayed at the Smithsonian Institute in Washington, has been the impetus for an annual two day pottery festival that brings between 7,000 and 8,000 people to Sanford.

      The Temple Theatre, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, features musicals and plays performed by top-quality actors, some from New York, as well as jazz concerts and appearances by well-known entertainers.  A statewide competition for high school bands, a community orchestra and chorus are among the other attractions offered Lee County residents.

      Another example cited is the quality public school system from which the younger people of Lee County derive an ongoing benefit.  Coincidentally, a sixteen-member superintendent search committee representing community organizations in Lee County, appointed by the Board of Education, has recently concluded its work.  And a new superintendent of schools should be named before the end of 2008, to oversee a school population of 9,677 from kindergarten through 12th grade, of which more than 200 are enrolled in Early College High School.

      The Early College program affords highly motivated students an opportunity to earn a high school diploma and an associates degree from Central Carolina Community College in four to five years, without the cost of tuition or books.  Some ECHS students enroll with an eye toward high-paying jobs in industry, completing their associate degree in a technical field and moving quickly into the workforce.  Others may transfer to a four-year institution and gain a bachelors degree.

      The area’s potential strengths, Joyce thinks, lie in the continued residential developments in the Raleigh-Durham region, which have been slowly creeping down into Chatham and Lee counties, and from Fayetteville, with the recent BRAC study showing a substantial increase in population.  He also mentions the unconfirmed reports that Progress Energy may be considering an expansion of its Harris nuclear power plant in New Hill.   If that became a reality, it could mean an increase in construction-related jobs and need for additional housing in Lee County

      Bob Joyce concludes, “I believe the future of Lee County looks excellent.”

Lee County; The Southern Base Of The Research Triangle Region

By Mary Elle Hunter

      The 12th smallest county in North Carolina is one of the most productive in terms of manufacturing, with upwards of 38% of the jobs in the county’s employment base absorbed by the manufacturing sector.   Lee County is comprised of just 259 square miles, but it also has been one of the fastest growing counties in the state, posting an average 2% increase in population annually.

      Sandwiched between the thirteen-county Research Triangle region to the north and the Fayetteville area with Fort Bragg to the south, location is an important factor in the county’s attracting and maintaining its manufacturing base.  Bob Heuts, director of The Lee County Economic Development Corp., points to the variety of items produced in the county, “Everything from the faucets in your home to the bricks in your house to the cloth for the clothing you are wearing can come from Lee County.”

      The county is filled with major manufacturers.  The Lee County Industrial Park (LCIP) in the northern area houses Wyeth Pharmaceuticals, Caterpillar Industrial, GKN Driveline, maker of vehicle parts, and a number of smaller industries.  Wyeth, which produces pediatric vaccines, over the last four years invested $250 million and brought 1,000 jobs to the area.  Caterpillar, and ancillary companies, have invested $10 million during the same period.

      The southern corner of Lee County is home to the 28-building campus of Static Control Components and its estimated 1,400 employees.  The company began as an entrepreneurial start-up, operating out of a basement workshop several years ago.  Now a worldwide leader in its field, Static manufactures toner cartridge components, electrical testing tools, and products to protect sensitive electrical parts from moisture and static with a distribution system encompassing 163 countries.

      To the east, a one million square foot Coty plant, producing fragrances and skin care products, is located.  In the same general area is a Tyson foods operation, turning out taco shells for Taco Bell restaurants, and Moen, maker of innovative bath and shower systems.

      Companies that have invested millions of dollars in expansions to their Lee County operations since 2004 include Frontier Spinning Mills, which opened as a small company in 1996, Hydratube, 3M, Pentair, Challenge Printing Company, and Lee Brick and Tile.  Together with General Shale, Lee Brick and Tile continue the tradition which describes the county as one of the leading brick manufacturing areas in the United States.

      “Although the brick business is very slow right now,” Bob Heuts comments, “Lee County is still very much in the brick manufacturing business.”  Noting that there is a brick plant listed for sale on the website of the Lee Economic Development Corp, he says that the property is an older facility with a minimal value, and new owners of the site would in all likelihood tear it down and use the land for other purposes.

      The trend for the expansions and the additions in the manufacturing sector is away from worker-intensive operations, and more focused on capital intensive processes, Bob Heuts observes.  “It is the only way that U. S. companies can compete in a global economy.  The trend is true not only in Lee County, but across the state and the nation.  Companies have invested heavily in cutting edge methods, with machinery based on updated technology, even some of them using robotics.  Or course, that has meant a decrease in the number of low-skilled jobs, but the jobs that remain or are created are typically better paying.”

      Referring to the Research Triangle Regional Partnership of which Lee County is a member, Bob Heuts mentions, “We couldn’t do it without them.  We can’t be in all the places across the country and the world, but they can and do represent us at trade shows and consultant’s visits.  Naturally, we try to participate in some of the shows, but we value their support.  We get clients through their marketing efforts on our behalf.”

      Bob Heuts also believes that the pro-business attitude of the county and municipal officials is another significant reason that the economic development of Lee County has been successful.  The Economic Development Corp. is a publicly funded organization, with 66% of the budget coming from the county, and the balance from the city of Sanford, the county seat, and the town of Broadway. 

      “The collective position of wanting to see good jobs created and investment added to our county tax base is a key factor to our being able to continue to provide services for our growing population.  If we aren’t all of one mind in terms of what we have to offer here in Lee County, and without our mutually-held feelings supporting new growth, we couldn’t remain in business.”

      One of the significant benefits to new and expanding business is a well-trained workforce. Central Carolina Community College provides three state-supported training programs which have been used by the majority of companies in the area.  Dr. T. Eston Marchant, president of the college, outlined the role of the college in economic development recently. 

      “We are the front door for economic opportunity in the community, the college for people to gain skills in technology and other vocational training or prepare for university transfer. It is vital for a community college to play that role and play it well.”

      Another important advantage that maximizes Lee County’s accomplishments in economic development is the Sanford-Lee County Regional Airport.  Since opening in its present location late in 2000, the airport has made an impact on aviation in the Research Triangle Region.

      Designated as a reliever for Raleigh-Durham International, it is located on more than 700 acres just off U.S.1, about 20 miles from Cary along a four-lane stretch of highway.  It serves corporate pilots to and from the manufacturing base in Sanford, as well as Triangle-area pilots seeking an easier, less-crowded alternative to RDU.    

      Sanford-Lee County Regional Airport, Bob Heuts explains, is the third largest public general aviation airport in the state with 1000 aircraft based on its field, and it hosts nine on-site businesses and generates an annual economic impact of $280 million.  At a meeting earlier this year with the state’s aeronautics council, the airport’s long range expansion plans were the topic of discussion.

      The airport’s capital improvement plan includes adding more hangars, extending its runway, and adding a 20-acre corporate park designed for companies in the aviation industry.

      The runway addition would create a 8,500 foot strip, allowing larger aircraft to land safely, although its present 6,500 foot length already eclipses what is currently available at most general aviation airports.

      Bill Williams, director of the North Carolina Department of Transportation’s Division of Aviation, sees a bright future for the local airport.  Citing its location near the state capital, world-class universities and Raleigh’s proposed I-540 Outer Loop, Williams sees continued growth ahead. “It will become one of the more significant airports over the next few years.”

      Another plus for the Lee County Economic Development Corp. is their meaningful relationships with the local Chamber of Commerce and the other private boards and committees that make up the core of the business community.  “If there is something going on in downtown Sanford, we definitely want to be a part of it,” Bob Heuts stresses,  “so that we can include it in our sales presentations to prospective industries.” 

      Speaking about the current national economic downturn, he comments “We have seen our unemployment rate shoot up from 4-5% several months ago to 8.2%, and I predict that it may go higher even yet. It is a sign of the times.  All of the companies are so far holding on as best they can to sustain their business during this difficult period.  The unemployment picture affects the manufacturing as well as the retail segment of our Lee County economy.  Most of the companies I have talked with have scaled back to their core workers, and are trying to position themselves for “rightsizing.”  During the downturn they are not producing as much and are taking a sharp look at their processes, operating as lean as they can.”

      Bob Heuts believes that Lee County has been very fortunate in the past, and it is a positive testimony to all the organizations, public and private, working together and understanding what needs to happen in the community at large to continue to move forward.  “When it comes time to talk to a prospective client, any minor disagreements are shelved, and everybody’s on the same page.  We all want good things to happen here in Lee County.”

 

Making Sanford a “Playful City”

One of the many interesting workshops at the Congress of Cities meeting in Orlando was “Building a Playful City.” This also seemed to be one of the most attended workshops.

A panel of five discussed the many challenges children face today that end up keeping them off the playground and out of the park.  Time spent on computers, video games, and television were high on the list of reasons not to play and exercise.  This was followed by the “I’m bored” with nothing to do story.  Finally, some of our youth are just plain lazy.

We were told that forty-seven percent of children in America are over weight.  It was also estimated that fifty-two percent of elementary schools across the country have tatally eliminated recess. 

One member of the panel told a story about the school his child attended.  The school was changing the menu in the cafeteria and planned on only offering healthier items. This would eliminate Sloppy Joe’s, etc. as a lunch item.  A public hearing was held on the issue and an over two hundred parents attended to voice their displeasure with this new plan

Several weeks later a public hearing was also held concerning the elimination of recess at the school.  At this public hearing, only two parents came to voice their opposition to this idea.  Seems that these childrens parents priorities are a little mixed up on what should really be important, I believe.

KaBOOM ( www.kaboom.org) is an organization that helps cities become “Playful Cities.”  Their goal is to have a safe place for children to play within walking distance from their home.  There are five requirements for cities that wish to be designated a “Playful City.” These commitments are:

1. Create a local play commission task force
2. Design an annual action plan for play
3. Conduct a play-space audit of all publicly accessible play areas
4. Identify current spending on capital projects and maintenance of play-spaces
5. Proclaim and celebrate an annual “Play Day.”

By becoming a “Playful City USA,” your city can receive grants, technical support, on-line resources, media support, playground builds, and more.  Most of all you will be letting your community that your are committed in making your city a place where children can have access to safe, clean play facilities.

There are only 67 “Playful Cities” out of the over five thousand cities in the United States. I believe Sanford should become a “Playful City USA.” We’re on the right track now with the new pocket park program.  This will take more effort, time and funding. I believe this type investment in our community and our children is long over due.

For more information contact Steve Brewer at 919-770-9587.

 

 

The 2nd Century Project…..A Good Night….A Good Idea….The Next Step

The 2^nd Century unveiling event on Thursday, October 2^nd, was a great event.  There are many individuals that worked very hard in the research and development of this branding and promotion project.  Thank all of you for your hard work and contributions.

Special thanks should be given to Four Oaks Bank and their board members for their tremendous contribution. Four Oaks sponsored the entertainment and food for the event in Depot Park. The Band of Oz was great and the hot dogs hit the spot.  Thanks again Four Oaks.

I’ve had many people ask me how I felt about the 2^nd Century project.  How the city would participate in the project in the future?  Finally, would there be any public funding for such a project?

I believe the 2^nd Century project is the next step for our community in choosing how we would like community to appear, grow, and prosper in the future.  This begins by getting many groups and organizations “on the same page.” 

Many ideas the group has discussed are, and have been, in motion.  For example, the city and county has a land use plan.  A very well thought out land use plan.  Certain aspects of this plan continue to evolve, but there is a plan.

 The city is actively working on an up-to-date streetscape plan.  Downtown Sanford has had several revised versions in past years, however the current in-work plan will include much more than just downtown. This design plan and study were part of the 2008/2009 city budget. 

Gateway improvements are in the works too.  They were, for lack of terms, “put on hold” until the 2^nd Century project was officially launched.  This was done in anticipation of possible signage and logo changes, etc. 

I believe the city government and the citizens of Sanford will embrace this project together.  I cannot see how this project could be a success without all the governing body’s participation in some form or fashion.  If the city council chooses to participate in this project it will require some public funding.  

If you “buy in” to the 2^nd Century project… then you believe in the branding, logos, marketing concept, etc.  The branding process will take time. Some of the branding requirements would be new pole banners in downtown, license plates for government automobiles, logos for vehicles, sign changes for public buildings, logo changes for water towers, signage for gateways, etc. If this idea is embraced by the community, then the citizens have decided they do indeed want the brand and logo to represent their community. That being the case……. these items should be paid for with public funds.  This would be the public contribution to a private/public partnership.

The 2^nd Century group plans to fund the project for the first 2 years with private funding.  I applaud their efforts.  There are many marketing ideas and studies, etc. that will require funding.  I wish them great success.  This will take a great deal of time, hard work and money. In the end, I believe for 2^nd Century to succeed the city will have to be committed and that means with some funding……… at the very least committed to the community branding phase of this project.

If you have any questions regarding this issue please call Steve Brewer at 919-770-9587.

 

Street Light Enhancements Are On The Way For Many Neighborhoods in Sanford

 In the weeks ahead, Progress Energy will begin work on the first phase of the new city street lighting enhancement program.  Sanford is one of the first cities in our state committed to making lighting improvements of this type and on this scale. The goal is to raise street lighting levels throughout the city, and comply with the ASHTO (American Association of State Highway Transportation) lighting standards. This should almost double the amount of existing street lighting in our city.

There will be improvements in each Ward in Sanford.  East Sanford, Forrest Hills, Currie Drive and Martin Street are areas slated for improvements.  Areas were chosen by city staff on a worse case basis. 

The lighting will be a three part process:

• Areas marked Red (1) represents the first areas to be enhanced   
• Areas marked Green (2) represent areas pending fund availability and would be second.
• Areas marked Blue (3) represent areas pending fund availability after the second.
• State roads are in PURPLE. Request for enhancements on state roads have been submitted, however take 6 to 9 months for approval.

All areas are throughout the city are unique and will require different levels of funding depending on existing poles, etc.  It is believed that each Ward could receive approximately 90 lights if all goes well. 

This is the first year of many that will focus on street light enhancement.  Be patient, the plan is not to stop until every neighborhood is complete.  This project will take time.  

Improved street lighting is just one pieces of the puzzle that will help make our city a safer place to live.  If you have any questions on this issue please call City Manager Hal Hegwer at 919-775-8201 or Steve Brewer at 919-770-9587.

 

City Meetings, Agendas, and Informing the Public

The following is a follow up to the editorial titled; We need more detailed, timely city council agendas.
 This editorial ran in the Sanford Herald on Thursday, August 28^th, 2008. Hopefully, this will explain how and why some procedures are in place concerning meetings, agendas, etc. The bold print is from the paper. The follow up information is in regular print.

Maybe the Sanford City Coun­cil has become so used to disagreeing with Council­men Mike Stone and Charles Taylor, it’s become second nature, regardless of subject matter.
  It doesn’t make it any less baf­fling, however, that some council­men would argue against Taylor and Stone’s suggestion Wednesday of a deadline for agenda items to be submitted for the council’s twice­monthly agenda-setting Law and Finance meetings.

Before 1993, Law & Finance was originally a meeting of the Mayor and 3 council members.  These council members would set the agenda for the upcoming regular meeting. 

The decision was made to change the meeting to include all council members.  This allowed the city staff to bring ideas & concerns to the council that may need to be addressed.  The entire council, would then make decisions and form the regular council meeting agenda. 

There is a great deal of support data that is required and accompanies some issues. Sometimes this information is not completed until Wednesday morning. Law & Finance meetings are on the Wednesday before the regular council meeting. The city clerk gathers and organizes this information for the meeting.

  We’ve heard arguments in the past from some councilmen that the meetings shouldn’t be televised.
  That’s debatable. The argument (a poor one, we feel) is the council can’t be open and up front when discuss­ing what should go on the agenda for the council meeting, which is intended to be a very public and very open event.

The debate has been over for many months.  The meetings are on TV.  A point that should be mentioned is Law & Finance meetings are fact finding and discussion meeting. No voting on any issue is done then.

 In my opinion, TV cameras make some council members not speak as freely as they’d like at times.  I also feel that some council members are caught up in being on TV and posture to the cameras.  I have seen council members act as if they were speaking to the audience at meetings.  In reality, the council chambers were empty. The only people there were the council members, the city manager, the city attorney, clerk, and the staff member speaking.  

There is a great deal of  value in letting the citizens see the discussion process of Law & Finance, however, sometimes I feel that it does suppress some council members free thinking, and open conversation.  This same rule would apply to the regular meetings.

  But there shouldn’t even be a de­bate when it comes to doing every­thing possible to ensure a detailed, informative agenda that’s open to public scrutiny before all meetings.

Law & Finance is an information and discovery process for council.  The news paper gets the information at the same time that council does.  That day at the meeting. The information is placed at the council member’s seat in the council chamber.  

As previously stated; at times, the staff adds things to the Law & Finance meeting agenda at the last minute.  If an agenda was sent out Monday morning electronically, it would be possible that a council member could read an editorial about how they should react to an idea, before even having a chance to hear from the city staff.  That would not be beneficial to anyone.

 It’s true, the Law and Finance meet­ing is a time for open discussion, but the public has a right to know what will be discussed. The public — which is responsible for voting in each councilmember — should most certainly be aware of what will be discussed in these meetings … even if it’s a“preparation meeting.” 

The public gets the information the same time as the council and the media.  The fact finding meetings are televised and available on the City web site on the internet.  They are also reported on by the news paper.  There is NO action taken at these meetings.  They are not voting meetings.

 
  Currently Sanford City Council agendas — which are sent by mail, and not the electric kind — are sometimes slow in reaching the intended destinations. The Herald at times receives its Sanford agenda the day of or day after the meeting is held.

As discussed in the meeting held with the Editor of the Herald on Friday, August 22nd, 2008. Before this editorial was printed. The city is working on getting the regular meeting agenda out electronically.  It is important to note, this meeting was requested by a member of council trying to improve the way the city communicates and shares information with the media.  Getting the agenda and information out in a timely manner, and informing the citizens is an important issue.  This subject had been recently mentioned in an editorial in the Herald. 

  As for the city’s Web site, the most recent agenda on its site is Aug. 19.

Regular meetings agendas are the only agendas posted on the web site.  The last meeting was August 19^th.

           The most recent “minutes” from a meeting were published back on June 3.

This area could use some improvement. It does take a long time to type the long meeting minutes currently held by council. In a perfect world, correct minutes should follow meetings by about 21 days and be posted. They have to be submitted to council at the following meeting (2 weeks), then approved.  If there are no amendments they can be posted.  There are many other duties the City Clerk has to accomplish in addition to minutes of meetings.

   The meeting may be viewed, in its entirety, on the city web usually by the morning following the meeting.    

  This means John Doe isn’t finding out in time that the city is planning a zoning change in his neighborhood.

The city post signs in neighborhoods that inform the public of zoning changes, etc.  The neighbors are notified by mail.  A public notice is posted in the Herald.  Usually, the Herald post what will be discussed at the regular meeting the day of the meeting.

 A public hearing is held for all matters such as zoning, etc.  There is also a public comment period before the regular agenda at every regular meeting.  Before any voting takes place on issues.

  It means John Doe doesn’t have time to fill out the proper paperwork to be able to speak at the council meet­ings.

Anyone can sign up to speak at a council meeting. The law requires it be allowed once a month. The city allows it at every regular meeting. It is a good idea. Citizens can sign up with the city clerk 15 minutes before the meeting.  All anyone needs is their name and address.  This shouldn’t take too long, even if they print.  They will speak before the council begins the regular agenda.

  It means it will be another voice unheard.

This is a little dramatic……..don’t you think.

  The law states that TV cameras, recording devices and the public cannot be barred from open public meetings. It also states that coun­cils must give the public 48 hours of notice for meetings — regular or special — stating the time, place and purpose of the meeting. It does not state, however, that the agenda has to be detailed or even distributed …
  it can be simply posted on City Hall’s door to be legal.

  That means it’s our elected of­ficials job to make an effort when it comes to informing the public. That we have councilmen at odds over this very subject is the real head­scratcher here. The debate should be “how do we make the public more informed?” … “not how do we keep them in the dark?”

The debate is… how long it takes to gather the information and put it in the proper form before distribution.  After a Tuesday night meeting, a Monday morning cut-off would allow 3 days to have everything ready for an agenda for Law & Finance. 

There are many other things being worked on in the city besides meeting agendas. The reason regular agendas are able to be finalized in 2 days is because most of the preliminary work is gathered for discussion at the Law & Finance meeting.  This is released all in plain view of the public…….seen for the first time by the public, the media, and the council members in an unbiased manner.

 I believe the public should be informed.  I believe that council should be informed also.  Informing the public is not the issue.  How to plan for meetings, gather and prepare information, and how this information is presented to the council is the issue.

If the city council, the press, and the public learn what may, or may not be on the Law & Finance agenda all at the same time…… I believe that the public is being informed and in a fair manner.

As I mentioned before.  This is not an action taking meeting.  No voting on issues.  It is time for council to learn and ask questions…..all seen on TV and the internet. The regular meeting has been structured so citizens can speak on issues before any vote is taken.

The city council is a representative form of government.  Council members are elected to do a job.  They are to make decisions using their best judgment and ability.  I believe informing the public and allowing their input before decisions are made is being accomplished by the city council.

If you have questions please or call Steve Brewer at 919-770-9587.

Pocket Park Named in Honor of Walter McNeil Jr.

Walter H. McNeil

 

The neighborhood “pocket park” on the corner of Martin Street and Pineland Street was officially named the W. H. McNeil Jr.Park by the Sanford City Council. The naming was in response to a request from the residents of the neighborhood.  These residents generated a petition during their National Night Out celebration and presented it last week to City Council.  The petition requested the park be named in honor of Councilman Walter H. McNeil for all his efforts in improving their neighborhood.

Walter McNeil has a long history of working to improve the city and his Ward.  He was appointed to the City Council in December 1980.  He filled the vacancy left by Rex McLeod who was appointed Mayor.  At that time, McNeil’s seat was at-large and for a two year term.  During his third or fourth term, the city was divided into the current Ward system and terms were extended to four years.  At the end of his current term, McNeil will have served the citizens of the City of Sanford for almost thirty-one years. 

The area where the park is located is one that McNeil has been working to improve for quite some time.  Crime is an important issue that has been at the forefront in the neighborhood.  No parking signs were installed in the areas where individuals would “hang out,” and new increased street lighting is to be installed in the very near future.   Community police, community watch, mobile police unit, National Night Out, etc. are all measures that were put in place to help deter crime in the area.  There is still room for improvement, but there is no doubt that the neighborhood is headed in the right direction.

There has been some discussion concerning the naming of this neighborhood pocket park.  I believe that you have to look at each situation individually, and consider each one on its own merits.  In this case, the neighbors wanted to name their neighborhood park.  It is great to see them want to take ownership and show pride in their neighborhood assets.  That’s what being a neighborhood is all about.

The fact that Walter McNeil is on the City Council, or is still alive should not matter.  Establishing a policy to try and make future Councils decisions for them is not the answer.  If they disagreed in later years they would just change the policy.  Council is elected to make decisions on issues as they arise and on their own merit, not to tell future Councils how to make decisions during their terms.

Naming a city asset in honor of an individual is a very important issue.  All the facts must be considered.  You must ask yourself, is this the right thing to do? In the end, each council member should look into their heart, and make their decision.  The dedicated, continuous service to the citizens of Sanford since 1980 clearly shows an individual that is well deserving of this honor.  I believe the right thing to do in this case was to honor the neighborhood residents request, and name their “pocket park“ the W.H. McNeil Jr. Park.

 

New Policies Help Save on Fuel

The City of Sanford is working hard to cut fuel consumption and save money.  Any unnecessary travel has been eliminated.  For example, if city personnel are traveling to Raleigh on city business, each   department is contacted to see if there is anything that needs to be dropped off, picked up, etc., in that area.  This is not just used for out of town travel. In town trips are also consolidated.

A propane injection system is currently being tested on one of the cities diesel pick-up trucks.  So far this has improved the fuel mileage for that vehicle by approximately 100%.  This looks very promising; however the cost of the injection system is close to $4000.00.  This is the test period of this project.  If successful, the city may consider installing this system on more of the fleet. Hopefully the price of these units will come down as different companies begin to grow into this new market.

To save additional money, the oil change interval has been extended from 3000 miles to 4000 miles on all vehicles, with the exception of the Police Departments patrol fleet.  These front line vehicles are used 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  They require brake inspection and servicing every 3000 miles. A synthetic oil is also being tested in hopes of producing less ware on the engines of city vehicles.

The Police Department will be phasing out the V-8 engine, Ford Crown Victoria used for detective vehicles.  The new detective cars will be the V-6 engine, Chevrolet Impala.  These cars also cost $4000.00 less than the Crown Victoria.  In the past, front line patrol cars were moved to the detective unit or other city departments.  The new program will retire the V-8’s used by those departments and new fuel efficient V-6’s will be purchased.  The estimated savings from changing the current policy of “hand-me-downs,” combined with other new policies, is estimated to reduce fuel consumption by 20%.

Five vehicles were retired and not replaced this year. This saved money on the maintenance and insurance on these vehicles.  Instead of replacing these vehicles, a vehicle “pool” has been established at the city garage.  This “pool” allows departments that require transportation on an irregular basis to have access to a vehicle.  This also allows these vehicles to be used to their maximum potential.

The City will continue to look into bio-fuels, hybrids, ethanol, smaller vehicles, etc.  Smaller vehicles where practical, and early vehicle retirement represents a change in philosophy for the city concerning vehicles. Reducing consumption and saving money is the goal regardless of the price of fuel.   These new practices will not stop if the price of fuel becomes less expensive.  Hopefully, when the numbers come in, we’ll be able to show just how much money we’ve saved.  This is a great step in the right direction.

If you have any questions on this issue, please call City Manager, Hal Hegwer at 919-775-8201 or Steve Brewer at 919-770-9587.

 

“Pocket Parks” almost ready!

Martin St. and Pineland St.

Third St. and North St.

The first “pocket parks” in Sanford are taking shape.  City work crews are installing a special mulch, as an impact absorber, at the park located on Martin Street and Pineland Street. Equipment installation crews are finishing up the assembly process at the park located on Third Street and North Street. 

It’s great to see this idea finally taking shape.  The seed for the ”pocket park” concept was planted at the National Congress of Cities Exposition, held in New Orleans, in 2007.  On display there were several vendors with displays of recreational equipment, and illustrations of various parks of different sizes, located throughout our nation.  This is when Council began seriously discussing the pros and cons of our city, and the roll it should play in parks and recreation. 

In early 2005, then Ward 2 council member Cornelia Olive did discuss putting up a basketball goal at the Third Street location.  Several neighbors had concerns that a basketball court at that location would not be a wise decision.  The county Recreation Department had removed several goals from other areas for various reasons.  The cost to resurface and prepare the court, etc. was also a deterrent.  This idea never went any further, however it did make Council think just a little about the lack of parks in our city.

Years ago, the City and County agreed that the County would handle all the parks and recreation for Lee County.  As the years passed, several parks were abandoned by the County and that property reverted back to the City.  The City also acquired several small lots through FEMA buy outs, land gifts to the City, land transfers from the County, etc. For one reason or another, most of these lots may not be sold. The City leases out some of this property.  The ones that are not leased are regularly maintained by the City. 

The decision was made to invest in our neighborhoods with a series of small parks.  These parks would be designed to accomodate younger children considered to be pre-teens.  In early 2008, the City Council moved $75,000 from a curb project on Steele Street to fund the first two “pocket parks.”  Additionally, several green space areas would receive park benches, etc. in other areas.

This will be a slow, learn as we go, process.  Anallyzing all the pros and cons of the first parks, so we may improve, if need be, on future parks.  Different areas may require a different concept.  Some areas may need more, and others just a little.  As with these first two parks, neighborhood imput will be very important. Investing more into nieghborhoods, and improving the quality of life in Sanford, is an important goal of City Council.  Hopefully, this will be another step in the right direction.

If you have any questions, please call City Manager, Hal Hegwer at 919-775-8201 or Steve Brewer at 919-770-9587.