Public Meetings - Greenville, North Carolina

The Greenville Board of Adjustment met on March 28, 2024, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The board held two public hearings for special use permits (one for a bar and one for a child daycare facility), noted the withdrawal of a third request, and conducted routine business including approval of minutes and administrative announcements. All voting members were present. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The board unanimously approved the minutes from the February 22, 2024 meeting. Discussion Items - Public Hearing – Special Use Permit for East Carolina Italian Ice (Bar 2022): Applicant Calvin Johnson requested a special use permit to operate a bar (Bar 2022) at 250 Reade Circle, Suite 109, to allow the sale of alcohol alongside existing Italian ice and desserts. The business is located within the defined Bar 2022 district. Johnson and business partner Carol Shepard stated the intent is to maintain a family atmosphere and serve adult customers with wine and alcohol-infused Italian ice, not to become a nightclub. Staff reported the request meets all development standards. The board voted unanimously to approve the petition with recommended conditions. - Withdrawal – Special Use Permit for Impact Builders, Inc. (Elementary School): Staff announced that the applicant had withdrawn the request earlier that day, as they are pursuing a property in another jurisdiction. No further action was taken. - Public Hearing – Special Use Permit for Boys and Girls Clubs of the Coastal Plain (Child Daycare Facility): Applicant Mark Holtzman, represented by Chase Perez (VP of IT and Facility Operations) and Kimberly Reeves (COO), requested a special use permit to operate a child daycare facility at 475 Belvoir Highway. The existing Boys and Girls Club serves about 100 young people daily in an after-school setting. The permit would allow the club to obtain a North Carolina Child Care License, enabling them to access subsidies and increase service quality without passing costs to families—many of whom live in households earning less than $25,000 per year. Staff recommended approval. The board voted unanimously to approve the petition with recommended conditions. Key Outcomes - Approved Special Use Permit for East Carolina Italian Ice (Bar 2022): Unanimous vote (all ayes). - Approved Special Use Permit for Boys and Girls Clubs of the Coastal Plain (Child Daycare): Unanimous vote (all ayes). - Board Training Announcement: Les Everett, Director of Planning and Development Services, announced that a board training session will be held on April 25, 2024, at 4:30 PM, prior to the regular meeting. - Cancellation of May 2024 Meeting: The board voted to cancel the May meeting (scheduled for Memorial Day weekend) and will carry any pending items to the June meeting. The motion passed unanimously. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned.

The Greenville Planning and Zoning Commission met on March 19, 2024, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The meeting was called to order by Chair Alan Brock, followed by an invocation and roll call establishing a quorum. The commission approved the minutes from February 20, 2024, and considered a preliminary plat request for Fairview Acres. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the February 20, 2024 meeting were approved by unanimous consent (motion, second, all in favor). Public Comments & Testimony - Speaker in Favor: Lynnwood Stroud, engineer for the owner, appeared to answer questions and expressed support for the preliminary plat request for Fairview Acres. No other speakers came forward in favor or opposition. Discussion Items - Preliminary Plat – Fairview Acres: A request by Stroud Engineering P.A. for a preliminary plat of 6 lots totaling 18.2862 acres, located along the southern right-of-way of Old Pactolus Road, approximately 340 feet east of Sunny Side Road (Pitt County tax parcel 90746). Staff presented the proposal, noting the property is in the northeastern quadrant of the city limits. Lots 1 and 6 will be on sewer, while lots 2-5 will cross Old Pactolus Road. The commission reviewed the plan and had no additional questions. Key Outcomes - Approval of Preliminary Plat: The commission voted unanimously to approve the preliminary plat for Fairview Acres (motion by a member, seconded, all in favor). - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned after the conclusion of new business.

The Greenville City Council met on Thursday, March 14, 2024 at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The meeting began with an invocation by Councilmember Les Robinson and the Pledge of Allegiance. Roll call established a quorum with all seven members present (Mayor Connolly, Mayor Pro Tem Daniels, Councilmembers Foreman, Blackburn, Scully, Robinson, and Willis). The agenda was approved 6-0. Special Recognitions - Chris Hinson, Recreation and Parks Department retiree with 30 years of service, was recognized for his impact on local tennis. - Greenville Fire Rescue was recognized for achieving accreditation from the Commission on Fire Accreditation International, making them one of only 300 accredited departments in the United States. Public Comments & Testimony - Jerry McCroy urged the council to represent citizens justly and with wisdom, noting positive interactions with council members. - Lee Mills spoke about the need for spiritual wisdom in decision-making and requested property tax relief. - Rick Cannon thanked the council for hosting a Cub Scout troop and allowing them to learn about city government. Appointments The council approved appointments to several boards and commissions: - Affordable Housing Loan Committee: Arjuna Jones Williams appointed on a 6-0 vote. - Historic Preservation Commission: deferred due to need for more information. - Multimodal Transportation Commission: Gary Fenton appointed on a 6-0 vote. - Youth Council: Seven members appointed on a 6-0 vote (Rachel Nelson, Alana Ethan, Zachary Cash, Dakota Parrott, Taylor Gundy, Amelia Octagon, Michaela Keys). - Transportation Advisory Committee (TAC): The mayor and mayor pro tem were designated as primary and alternate seats as ex officio positions, approved 6-0. Public Hearings Items 5-8: Annexations and Rezoning (All passed 6-0) - Item 5: Annexation of Langston Commercial and Office Park Lot 8 (1.880 acres, northeastern corner of Regency Boulevard and South Memorial Drive, estimated tax value $3 million). Approved. - Item 6: Annexation of Wimbledon Park Lot 2B (3.3453 acres, western right-of-way of Wimbledon Drive, 28 townhomes, estimated tax value $4.76 million). Approved. - Item 7: Annexation of Reggie Spain Homes LLC property (52.608 acres, northern right-of-way of Frog Level Road, 155 single-family lots, estimated tax value $24.8 million). Approved. - Item 8: Rezoning of the same property from RR (Pitt County jurisdiction) to RA20 (Residential-Agricultural). Staff noted the property could yield 140-170 single-family lots under RA20 (vs. 60-65 under county RR), and the Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval unanimously. Approved. Item 9: Signage Amendment for Downtown Commercial Zone (Passed 6-0) - Ordinance to amend Title 9, Chapter 4, Article N to allow additional wall signage for buildings with exposed walls taller than neighboring buildings in the CD (Downtown Commercial) district. The amendment was driven by new development including the hotel on Evans Street. Staff presented examples and calculations. The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval unanimously. Approved. Item 10: Text Amendment to Allow Commercial Recreation in RA20 (Denied 6-0) - This ordinance, requested by Amanda Bambrick on behalf of Sawyer's Fun Park, would add "Commercial recreation; indoor and outdoor, not otherwise listed" as a special use in the RA20 zoning district, with standards including 200-foot setbacks, buffer yard E, lighting limits, and noise limits (60 dBA at property line). The applicant planned a $16 million expansion (go-karts, mini golf, driving range) on a 30-acre site adjacent to residential neighborhoods (Cory Ridge and Blackwood). The Planning and Zoning Commission voted 4-2 to recommend denial. - Public testimony: Supporters included local business owners and residents who argued the amendment would provide needed family entertainment, retain young professionals, and generate tax revenue. Opponents (neighbors) raised concerns about noise, traffic, property values, safety, and the citywide impact of the amendment. A recording of noise from the existing park was played. The county planning board had also recommended denial. - Council discussion: Several council members expressed support for the concept but opposed the location and the citywide nature of the amendment without broader community input. Councilmember Willis noted that many RA20-zoned areas would be affected without their knowledge. The motion to deny was made by Mayor Pro Tem Daniels, seconded by Councilmember Robinson, and passed 6-0. Item 11: Ordinance Prohibiting Unauthorized Use of Limited Use Dumpsters (Passed 6-0) - Second reading of an ordinance prohibiting unauthorized use of dumpsters on city property, primarily targeting downtown. Fines: $100 (first offense), $250 (second), $500 (third) within 365 days. Civil citation with possibility of criminal misdemeanor. Approved. City Manager's Report - Approved the consent agenda for the March 25 meeting (6-0). - Recognized employees Kylie Rouse (HR staff support specialist) and Trinette Green (collections and parking manager) as "rock stars" for their exceptional service. Comments from Mayor and City Council - Councilmembers made announcements about Women's History Month, Easter, St. Patrick's Day events, ECU athletics, and safe celebrations. Councilmember Foreman emphasized responsible growth and putting people first. Mayor Connolly noted his daughter's softball tournament. Key Outcomes - Items 5-9 and 11: All approved 6-0. - Item 10 (RA20 text amendment): Denied 6-0. - Appointments: All passed 6-0. - The meeting adjourned after approximately 2.5 hours.

The Greenville City Council met on March 11, 2024 at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. Mayor P.J. Connolly presided. The meeting included special recognitions, a public comment period with no speakers, a consent agenda (with two items removed for discussion), presentations from the Multimodal Transportation Commission and staff, and key business items including an ordinance on unauthorized dumpster use, a memorandum of agreement for the Town Common Bulkhead project, and a budget amendment. Special Recognitions - Chris Cox, Engineering Department, was recognized as a North Carolina Master Road Scholar for completing 21 courses and submitting a case study. - Financial Services Purchasing Division received the 2023 Sustained Professional Purchasing Award, marking the 16th year the division has received this award. The City was one of 16 agencies statewide to receive it. - PirateFest was named 2024 Festival of the Year by the North Carolina Association of Festivals and Events. The April 2023 event featured a free concert by Maddie and Tay and showcased Eastern NC. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved 6-0 after removing items 6 and 9 for separate discussion. - Approved items included: minutes, resolution of intent to close Proctor Circle, acceptance of dedications for Davenport Farms phases 7&8, interlocal agreement with Pitt County for core communication system, firefighter grant application, HVAC contract, landscape maintenance contract, surplus declaration and vehicle purchase, and tax refunds. Discussion Items - Item 6: Resolution of Intent to Close Unimproved Sections of Laurel Street, Second Street Terrace, and Sycamore Street in College Heights Subdivision. Director of Engineering Lisa Kirby explained that Cypress Glen requested the closure to allow for expansion; the unimproved rights-of-way would revert to adjacent property owners. Approved 6-0. - Item 9: Authorization to Acquire Easements for Cedar Lane Stream Stabilization Project. Lisa Kirby clarified that this project stabilizes 1,500 linear feet of Reedy Branch from 14th Street to behind JC Park to address erosion, not flooding in the Golden/Adams area. A separate Cedar Lane drainage project will address flooding. The construction contract will be presented in May. Approved 6-0. - Item 16: Presentation by Multimodal Transportation Commission. Chair Arcina Dixon presented the commission's 2023 activities and 2024 goals. Key concerns included ADA compliance (e.g., bus stop at Highway 11 without wheelchair access), excessive speeds in subdivisions, low visibility on Memorial Drive, dangerous crosswalks, and pedestrian accidents. The commission aims to update bylaws, increase community involvement, and engage with council members. Council members expressed support and appreciation. - Item 17: Ordinance Prohibiting Unauthorized Use of Limited Use Dumpsters or Trash Receptacles. Public Works Director Kevin Mulligan presented the ordinance to address illegal dumping at city-owned dumpster locations downtown. Penalties: first violation $100 civil, second within 365 days $250, third $500, plus potential class 3 misdemeanor. Signs will be posted. A previous education campaign was conducted. Council supported the ordinance, with discussion emphasizing compliance over enforcement. A preliminary vote passed 6-0; final vote scheduled for March 14. - Item 18: Memorandum of Agreement with NC Department of Public Safety for Town Common Bulkhead Project. Recreation and Parks Director Don Barber presented. The MOA secures $5 million in funding for bulkhead replacement (estimated total cost $21.9 million). Design update shared; project timeline: final design by August 2024, permits winter 2024-2025, construction bids spring 2025. Approved 6-0. - Item 19: Budget Ordinance Amendment 8. CFO Jacob Joyner presented adjustments across multiple funds, including increasing general fund by $532,000, sanitation fund $3,300, insurance reserves $250,000, housing fund $656,000, transit fund $2.7 million, and stormwater capital fund $630,000. Approved 6-0. Key Outcomes - All votes on items 6, 9, 17 (first reading), 18, and 19 passed unanimously 6-0. - The consent agenda was approved 6-0. - The dumpster ordinance will receive a final vote on March 14, 2024. - The council reviewed the March 14 agenda. City Manager's Report - City Manager Michael do? (not fully named) presented a video in the 250th anniversary reflection series featuring Dr. Earl Trevathan, who recounted desegregating the hospital nursery in 1954. A student art competition deadline is May 10. City Attorney's Report - Introduced new Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Scott Dixon, a Greenville native, who began February 19. Council welcomed him. Comments from Mayor and Council - Councilmember Robinson praised police response to a shooting where officers apprehended a suspect without injury, calling it exemplary. He also highlighted PirateFest 2024 on April 20 and encouraged use of Wildwood Park. - Councilmember Scully thanked the police, the Multimodal Commission, and noted Women's History Month. - Councilmember Willis recognized Women's History Month and International Women's Day. - Councilmember Blackburn added to police praise, noting the suspect was taken without violence, and remembered former councilmember Inez Fridley, who passed away that morning, for her contributions to greenways and neighborhoods. - Councilmember Foreman also recognized Fridley and thanked the commission. - Mayor Pro Tem Daniels thanked the commission, noted Social Worker Appreciation Month, and thanked police for their work on a homicide case. - Mayor Connolly thanked police, congratulated ECU women's basketball and baseball teams, and encouraged residents to promote Greenville. Adjourned.

[The Greenville City Council held a workshop on March 11, 2024, from 4:11 PM to 6:02 PM, to discuss the city's current standards for data processing centers and modular data processing facilities. The discussion focused on whether to keep, modify, repeal, or ban these standards, with special emphasis on cryptocurrency mining operations. Council members expressed divergent views on the need for a moratorium while staff research potential modifications. The workshop concluded without a final decision; instead, a motion was made to consider adding a vote on initiating a moratorium to the regular meeting agenda later that evening.] Consent Calendar - The agenda was approved unanimously (5-0) after a motion by Mayor Pro Tem Daniels, seconded by Council Member Willis. Council Member Robinson arrived at 4:12 PM. Discussion Items - Presentation by Chief Planner Chantae Gooby: She reviewed the current Greenville standards for data processing centers (2,500 ft separation from schools and single-family homes; sound study at discretion; modular allowed with 100 ft setback and 35-acre minimum). She presented standards from other North Carolina jurisdictions, noting that most are rural and lack comprehensive plans. Four options were outlined: keep, modify, repeal, or ban the standards. Staff recommended against an outright ban due to legal risks. - Council Debate: - Council Member Blackburn advocated for a moratorium to allow time for study and to prevent cryptocurrency mining operations from entering under current standards, citing community opposition and potential risks to the power grid and public peace. - Council Member Robinson expressed legal concerns, arguing that the current standards are already highly restrictive, there have been no applications, and a moratorium would require evidence that existing standards are inadequate. He worried about legal challenges and cautioned against regulating a lawful use out of business. - Council Member Foreman emphasized the duty to represent citizens, especially those in the ETJ who would be most impacted, and supported exploring tighter restrictions—including possibly banning modular outdoor facilities—without a full ban. - Council Member Scully questioned whether a moratorium was justified and asked for data on where such facilities could still locate under current rules. - Mayor Connelly noted the issue stemmed from a 2022 ordinance after the Compute North bankruptcy and suggested that further modification might be better handled without a moratorium. - City Attorney Michael Cowin explained the legal requirements for a moratorium: a clear statement of the problem, consideration of alternatives, and a plan for action. He stated that public perception alone is not a sufficient legal basis; specific problems (e.g., grid capacity, noise) must be demonstrated. - Staff clarified that they cannot distinguish cryptocurrency mining from other data processing because they lack technical expertise and that any significant increase in restrictions risks being seen as a constructive ban. Key Outcomes - No formal vote was taken at the workshop. - Council Member Blackburn requested that the item be added to the regular meeting agenda that same evening (the March 11 regular meeting) for a vote on initiating a moratorium. This request received some support but also hesitancy from members who wanted more legal clarity. - Council agreed to continue the discussion and potentially take action at the regular meeting later that day. - Staff were directed to provide additional information regarding possible locations for modular data centers and the legal basis for a moratorium.

Introductory paragraph: The Greenville Board of Adjustment met on February 22, 2024, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The meeting included approval of previous minutes, adoption of a proposed decision and order denying a variance for US Foods Chef Store, an annual review of bars and microbreweries operating under special use permits, and a public hearing for a special use permit for Wildflower Florist to operate a wine and beer store as an accessory use. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from October 26, 2023: Motion by Mr. Cohen, seconded by Mr. McNair. Approved unanimously via voice vote. - Approval of minutes from January 25, 2024, with a correction on page 21 to add that the motion to deny the variance request passed unanimously: Motion by Mr. Warrell, seconded by Mr. McNair. Approved unanimously via voice vote. Old Business - Proposed BOA Decision and Order Denying Variance for US Foods Chef Store (BOA File No. 23-17): The board voted to accept the draft decision and order prepared by Attorney Phillips. Motion by Mr. Warrell, seconded by Mrs. Bass. Approved unanimously via voice vote. - Annual Review of Bars and Microbreweries Operating Pursuant to an Approved Special Use Permit: Staff (Mr. Jones) presented a summary report covering 13 establishments (11 bars and 2 microbreweries). Reports from fire inspections, code enforcement, police department, and other agencies were reviewed. Fire inspection violations were corrected; code enforcement had one resolved violation for tall grass. Police department (Major David Anderson) reported incidents for six bars, with Dirty Dan's showing 21 noise complaints (mostly from one nearby resident, with recent soundproofing improvements) and Still Life having higher numbers of violent incidents due to larger crowds. Staff recommended no rehearing for any establishment. Major Anderson noted good relationships with bars and that police encourage bars to call for assistance rather than handle incidents internally. Board members asked about security training (currently a two-hour course) and violence levels. Major Anderson indicated longer training would be beneficial but no request for rehearing. The board voted on a motion by Miss Bass, seconded by Mr. Ruffin, that based on the staff report, a hearing for modification or revocation of a special use permit is not required for any of the bars or microbreweries. Motion passed unanimously via voice vote. New Business - Public Hearing on Request for a Special Use Permit by Jessica Shore for Wildflower Florist (Tax Parcel No. 14764, 518 SE Greenville Boulevard, Suite F): The applicant seeks a special use permit to operate a wine and beer store as an accessory use (off-premise consumption) pursuant to Appendix A, Use 10(c) of the Greenville City Code. Staff (Mr. Jones) presented the location, zoning (General Commercial), and noted that the use would be accessory to the existing florist retail. A public hearing notice was published in the Daily Reflector on February 10 and 17, 2024. The applicant, Jessica Shore, testified that she wishes to sell bottles of wine in gift baskets for off-premise consumption alongside flowers. No other speakers for or against the application were sworn in. Staff opined the request meets all development standards for issuance of a special use permit. The board voted on the criteria: health and safety, detriment to public welfare, etc. (silence acknowledged as vote in favor). Motion for approval of the petition with staff recommended conditions was made by Mr. Ruffin, seconded by Mr. Cohen. Approved unanimously via voice vote. Key Outcomes - Approved minutes from October 26, 2023 and January 25, 2024 (with correction). - Adopted the proposed decision and order denying variance for US Foods Chef Store. - Determined no rehearing needed for any bar or microbrewery under annual review. - Approved special use permit for Wildflower Florist to operate a wine and beer store (accessory use) with staff conditions. - Meeting adjourned at approximately [time not specified in transcript] following a motion by Mr. Purdle, seconded by Mr. Warrell, unanimously approved.

The Greenville Planning and Zoning Commission convened on February 20, 2024, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The commission reviewed four items: approval of minutes, a rezoning request, a downtown signage text amendment, and two street closure petitions. All items were recommended for approval with unanimous votes. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the January 16, 2024 meeting were approved by unanimous consent. Public Comments & Testimony - Rezoning (Frog Level Road): Scott Anderson, speaking on behalf of the applicant Reggie Spain Homes, expressed support for the rezoning. He explained that the request enables the property to be developed with premium utility sewer and noted the rezoning would be followed by annexation next month. - Downtown Signage Text Amendment: Gail Wallace, representing Clarendon Properties (developer of the downtown Hilton hotel), spoke in favor of the amendment. She stated that the hotel would benefit from larger signage that is visible and impactful to arriving guests. - College Heights Street Closure: No members of the public spoke in favor or opposition. - Proctor Circle Street Closure: Josh Lewis, President/CEO of the Greenville ENC Alliance and owner of an adjacent property, spoke in favor of the closure. Discussion Items - Rezoning Request – Reggie Spain Homes (52.608 acres at Frog Level Road/Madera Drive): Staff presented the request to rezone property from Pitt County's RR (Rural-Residential) to the city's RA20 (Residential-Agricultural) district. The property is located along the northern right-of-way of Frog Level Road at the terminus of Madera Drive. Staff noted the current county zoning could accommodate 60 to 65 single-family lots, while the proposed RA20 zoning could accommodate 140 to 170 lots. The property is not currently in the city's ETJ; annexation is scheduled for March 14, 2024. Following the public hearing, the commission discussed the request and voted unanimously to recommend approval, finding it consistent with the comprehensive plan. - Text Amendment – Downtown Signage (Exposed Walls and Parapets): Staff from the Planning and Development Services Department presented a proposed amendment to Title 9, Chapter 4, Article N (Signs) to allow additional signage in the CD (Downtown Commercial) zoning district. The amendment would add definitions for "exposed wall" and "parapet" and permit signage calculations on exposed walls at a rate not to exceed 1.5 square feet per linear foot. Staff provided examples, including the former Ken's Furniture building and the new downtown Hilton hotel. The proposed standards would apply only to CD-zoned properties. Staff reported that the Downtown Greenville Partnership received the presentation on February 7, 2024, and no negative feedback was received. The Horizons plan supports quality signage in the uptown area. During discussion, commissioners asked about lighting and digital signage; staff clarified that such signs would be subject to the same standards as elsewhere in the city. The commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of the text amendment as consistent with the comprehensive plan. - Street Closure – College Heights Subdivision (Laurel Street, Second Street Terrace, Sycamore Street): Staff reviewed a petition by Cypress Glen Retirement Community (United Methodist Retirement Homes) to close unimproved sections of these streets to facilitate an expansion. The right-of-way was dedicated but never improved. Greenville Utilities requested an electrical easement. City staff would require necessary improvements or a bond before City Council action. The closed right-of-way would be split evenly between adjacent property owners. The commission voted unanimously to recommend approval to City Council. - Street Closure – Proctor Circle: Staff presented a petition by both adjoining property owners to close the unimproved right-of-way of Proctor Circle in the Indi-Green subdivision. The property is located north of the river near the Greenville Bypass and Sugg Parkway. Greenville Utilities requested water and sewer easements for existing utilities. Since it is a DOT street, plans for any necessary improvements (e.g., driveway or ditch) must be approved and bonded. No properties would lose street access; both properties front Sugg Parkway. Josh Lewis spoke in favor. The commission voted unanimously to recommend approval to City Council. Key Outcomes - Approved the January 16, 2024 minutes. - Recommended approval of the rezoning request for 52.608 acres at Frog Level Road (RR to RA20) to City Council. - Recommended approval of the text amendment allowing additional signage in the CD district. - Recommended approval of the street closures for Laurel Street, Second Street Terrace, and Sycamore Street in College Heights Subdivision. - Recommended approval of the street closure for Proctor Circle. - All five votes were unanimous.

The Greenville City Council met on February 8, 2024, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The meeting included special recognitions for two retiring employees, a public comment period dominated by advocates for a multi-sport facility with rectangular fields, appointments to boards and commissions, five public hearings on annexations and rezoning, a city manager's report, and council comments. All agenda items were approved unanimously. Special Recognitions - Carlton Smith, Public Works Department retiree, was recognized for 20 years of service as a crew leader in sanitation. - Augustus "Augie" Etheridge, Police Department retiree, was recognized for over 20 years of service at GPD, including roles in the gang unit and FBI task force. Public Comments & Testimony - Rob McCarthy, president of East Carolina Youth Lacrosse League, advocated for a multi-sport complex with eight turf fields, stating the league has raised over $50,000 for equipment and that a tournament brought $300,000 in economic impact. He noted that lacrosse is the largest youth league in NC. - Celey Edwards, president of Pitt County Youth Lacrosse and J.H. Rose girls varsity coach, described capped participation due to limited space and the loss of Bradford Creek parking. She supported a multi-sport complex. - Ryan Kudnik, coach and parent, highlighted lacrosse's growth (200% participation increase) and safety benefits, urging planning for future field needs. - John Brawley, coach and parent, gave examples of costs for tournaments and camps, and noted that families spend money elsewhere due to lack of local facilities. - Pam Evans, parent, presented economic data: a two-day tournament in Mooresville generated $370,000; Wilson spent $40M on parks attracting Mudcats relocation with $300M projected impact. - Ashley Hutchinson, teacher and parent, discussed social and cultural benefits: physical activity, academic improvement, college opportunities (14.2% girls, 15% boys move from high school to college lacrosse), and community connection. - Maredith (likely Meredith) spoke as "closer," noting that Greenville lacks rectangular fields and urged adding eight fields to the proposed complex. - Kyle Peacock, former player and PAL community member, supported a multi-sport complex and noted lack of lacrosse PAL programs. - Several youth speakers (Blake Williams, Carson Ivy, Addison Hutchinson, Elizabeth Riley) expressed desire for lacrosse fields to avoid traveling. - One speaker from China (Gal G. Zhang?) supported lacrosse as a new sport with economic potential. - Brittany Jesmer mentioned high schoolers reffing and missed tournament opportunity. Appointments - Councilmember Foreman nominated Nola Dixon to the Board of Adjustment (approved 6-0). - Councilmember Blackburn deferred appointments to Historic Preservation Commission (continued to future meeting). - Councilmember Willis appointed Dejan Williams and Thomas Remington to the Human Relations Council (approved 6-0). - Councilmember Foreman appointed Eric Ellison to the Police Community Relations Committee (direct appointment, approved). - Councilmember Stulley deferred appointment to Multimodal Transportation Commission (continued). - Councilmember Willis deferred appointments to Youth Council (continued). Public Hearings All public hearings had no public speakers for or against (except for the Rosewood property owner). Each was approved unanimously (6-0). Ordinance to Annex Langston West, Phase 13, Section 1 (22.3641 acres, terminus of South Bend Road, anticipated 38 single-family lots, estimated tax value $10,450,000) – Approved. Ordinance to Annex Northside Commercial Center, Lot 4 (1.45 acres, SE corner Marine Dr & NE Greenville Blvd, existing 4,400 sq ft commercial building, estimated tax value $470,000) – Approved. Ordinance to Annex Northside Commercial Center, Lot 6 (1.74 acres, SW corner Marine Dr & Tupper Dr, existing 5,500 sq ft commercial building, estimated tax value $475,000) – Approved. Ordinance to Annex Rosewood Subdivision, Block D, Lot 1 (0.3673 acres, SE corner Pine Dr & Greaves Ct, single-family residence with septic failure, estimated tax value under $150,000) – Property owner William Holley spoke requesting annexation to connect to city sewer stub. Approved. Ordinance to Rezone 0.3673 acres at SE corner Pine Dr & Greaves Ct from RR (Rural-Residential) to R15S (Residential-Single-Family) – Same property as above. Staff recommended approval; Planning and Zoning Commission voted unanimously Jan 16, 2024. Property owner Holley noted flood safety. Approved. City Manager's Report - City Manager Cowan requested cancellation of the February 19, 2024 council meeting due to no action items. Council approved (6-0). - City Manager gave shout-outs to sanitation employees Keidred Baker, Maurice Edwards, and Carlos Wooten for successful implementation of trash and recycling route changes affecting over 12,000 residents. Council Comments - Councilmember Foreman had no comments. - Councilmember Blackburn encouraged pet adoption for Valentine's Day. - Councilmember Willis noted Governor Cooper's visit, tenant-based rental assistance second round (Feb 12-16), youth council applications, early voting start Feb 15, and praised employee shout-outs. - Councilmember Stulley reflected on a day serving the city, including Downtown Business Partnership meeting and meeting Governor Cooper, and honored retirees. - Councilmember Robinson celebrated National Girls and Women in Sports Day (Feb 7) and National Boy Scouts Day (Feb 8), promoted Girl Scout cookies, Jackie Robinson Baseball League sign-up (Sunday at 3pm at Thomas Suman Park), and praised sanitation employees. - Mayor Pro Tem Daniels announced Pirate Fest named Event of the Year by NC Association of Festivals and Events, recognized Margot Clark, encouraged Black History Month events, thanked lacrosse group and Recreation and Parks, and wished happy Valentine's Day. - Mayor Connelly wished happy Valentine's Day, birthday to his mother and daughter Mary Kate (turning 11 on Feb 15), promoted ECU baseball opening Feb 16 vs Rider, and thanked lacrosse families. Key Outcomes - All motions passed unanimously (6-0) unless noted. - Appointments: Nola Dixon (Board of Adjustment), Dejan Williams and Thomas Remington (Human Relations Council), Eric Ellison (Police Community Relations Committee). Other appointments deferred. - Five public hearings approved: annexations and rezoning as described. - Council meeting of February 19, 2024 canceled. - No formal decision on multi-sport facility; public comments heard.

The Greenville City Council met on February 5, 2024, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. Mayor P.J. Connolly presided. The meeting included an invocation, pledge, roll call, approval of the agenda (with item 1 continued to March 11), public comments, approval of a consent agenda (with two items pulled for separate discussion), presentations from two boards, contract awards for infrastructure and zoning projects, a budget amendment, and council member reports. All votes were 6-0. Consent Calendar - Items Approved En Bloc (after pulling 5 and 7): - Approval of minutes (Item 2) - Proposed amendment of Boards & Commissions Policy (Item 3) - Authorization to enter into NC Statewide Mutual Aid Agreement (Item 4) - Resolution and Deed of Release to abandon two drainage easements (Item 6) - Update to Façade Improvement Grant Program Guidelines (Item 7 was pulled and later approved separately) - Pre-event contract for Debris Management and Removal Services (Item 8) - Pre-event contract for Debris Removal Monitoring Services (Item 9) - Various tax refunds greater than $100 (Item 10) Public Comments & Testimony - Dr. Yoshi Newman (spoke first) highlighted that Greenville-Pitt County lies within one of 36 global biodiversity hotspots, where 30% of original vegetation remains and 70% has been removed. He urged council to consider how development choices affect rare species. He gave a hypothetical example of Tanger Outlet tearing down downtown, illustrating the need for careful planning. He also thanked city staff for their support. - Jeff Monaco, Chair of the Cypress Group of the Sierra Club (representing about 700 members in Northeastern NC), spoke in support of the Environmental Advisory Commission's work. He discussed the concept of the Anthropocene and humanity's responsibility to protect the environment, urging council to follow the commission's advice on tree ordinances and energy use. Discussion Items - Item 5 – Modifications to Sale of GUC Former Operations Center (801 Mumford Road): Councilmember Blackburn asked about contamination. Tony County (GUC President/CO) explained a six-acre area had cleaning solvent in soil under voluntary monitoring agreement with the state; the modification carves out a lease until natural attenuation. Councilmember Blackburn also asked about leftover Compute North (crypto mining) assets; staff indicated some containers may remain under a lease with the purchaser. Motion to approve passed 6-0. - Item 7 – Façade Improvement Grant Program Guidelines Update: Chief Planner Sean Tighe explained new requirements: applicants must provide financial proof, maintain general liability insurance for three years, and record a preservation easement for grant value during the maintenance period. Councilmember Blackburn asked clarifying questions. Motion to approve passed 6-0. - Item 11a – Affordable Housing Loan Committee Presentation: Chair Mark Tansky reported on the past year: approved one $20,000 down payment assistance loan (closed by Habitat for Humanity), reviewed federal plans, and recommended $179,000 to nonprofits in FY2023 and $150,000 pending for FY2024. Applicants include Community Crossroads Center, Center for Family Violence Prevention, Boys & Girls Club, Martin-Pitt Partnership for Children, Habitat for Humanity, and Quinania Christian Center. - Item 11b – Environmental Advisory Commission (EAC) Presentation: Chair Jeff McKinnon (ECU biology professor) presented. He noted the region is a global biodiversity hotspot (36 in the world) and summarized 2023 accomplishments: supported hiring a sustainability fellow (Abby Kimmel), saw improved GUC policies for residential solar, provided feedback on stormwater grants, urged GUC board to stop promoting natural gas, and worked on EV charging stations. 2024 goals: establish a permanent sustainability coordinator position, shift GUC away from fossil fuels, review tree protection policies, and address regionally important air pollutants. He cited ECU’s 19% reduction in purchased electricity (saving $60M since 2003) and Asheville’s $1.3M/year savings from similar efforts. Councilmembers asked about endangered species (Venus flytrap, red wolf, red-cockaded woodpecker) and thanked the commission. - Item 12 – Contract Award for St. Andrews Drive Stream Restoration: Civil Engineer Lynn Rayner described a $589,269 contract to KCI Associates for design, easement acquisition, and CEI. The project will restore 3,200 linear feet of deeply incised stream to protect sewer lines, stormwater outfalls, and transformer boxes. Community outreach will include letters, robocalls, and virtual meetings. Councilmember Willis and Foreman asked about stream bed leveling (grade control structures/step pools), vegetation salvage, and property impacts (easements, no outright purchases). Motion to approve passed 6-0. - Item 13 – Contract Award for Unified Development Ordinance (UDO): Chief Planner Sean Tighe explained a comprehensive rewrite of Chapters 4 (zoning) and 5 (subdivisions) to modernize and consolidate standards, with an 18–24 month timeline. A consultant, task force, and extensive public engagement will be used. Motion to approve passed 6-0. - Item 14 – Budget Ordinance Amendment 7: CFO Jacob Joyner presented adjustments: $43,154 for opioid settlement fund transfer, $150,000 for utility work related to Metronet, $500 police donations, vehicle replacement fund reallocation (no net change), and $43,500 from state DOT for facility improvements. Total operating budget becomes $176,313,000. Motion to approve passed 6-0. Key Outcomes - Agenda Item 1 (Special Recognition) continued to March 11, 2024, Council meeting (motion passed 6-0). - Consent agenda approved (items 2,3,4,6,8,9,10) after items 5 and 7 were pulled. - Item 5 – Modifications to GUC property sale approved 6-0. - Item 7 – Façade Improvement Grant guidelines approved 6-0. - Item 12 – St. Andrews Drive contract awarded to KCI Associates for $589,269 (task order 1) approved 6-0. - Item 13 – Unified Development Ordinance contract awarded to consultant (not named in transcript) approved 6-0. - Item 14 – Budget Ordinance Amendment 7 approved 6-0. - Council thanked staff and boards, noted upcoming events: 250th anniversary celebrations, Black History Month programs, and commended police/fire departments for recent service. - Meeting adjourned after council comments.