Public Meetings - Greenville, North Carolina

The Greenville Board of Adjustment met on January 25, 2024 at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The board heard six public hearing items: a variance request for additional signage, four special use permits for mobile homes and a commercial recreation business, and an annual review of bars and microbreweries. All members were present and quorum was established. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: Adopted by voice vote. - Approval of Minutes: Board voted to forego reading and approval of the October 26, 2023 minutes; motion passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - US Foods Chef Store (Variance): Applicant Alan Steele, store manager, stated the "no membership required" sign is needed to inform customers that the store is open to the public; many mistakenly think it requires a membership. He said the sign would benefit business and that other US Foods stores have similar signs. No opposition speakers. - Crossland Homes (Special Use Permit): Applicant David Rice, manager, said the owner wants to replace an old stick-built home with a new mobile home on Frog Level Road; the property is across from a mobile home park. No opposition. - Alberto Hernandez (Special Use Permit): Dayton Evans, on behalf of Hernandez, stated Hernandez purchased a mobile home and moved it to the lot at Sandstone Court before learning of the permit process; existing septic tank is ready. No opposition. - LCG Properties (Special Use Permit - Anger Management Rage Room): Owner Lorena Garrison described the business as a rage room where customers break items (donated glassware, electronics, cars) for stress relief. She noted the business operates by appointment, has safety equipment, and targets a mostly female clientele aged 25–65. The move to Dickinson Avenue would provide better visibility and parking. No opposition. - Joyce Wright (Special Use Permit): Applicant Joyce Wright stated she purchased the lot to place a mobile home for her grandson. No opposition. Chair Evans disclosed a prior working relationship with Wright; the board voted no conflict of interest. Discussion Items - Variance Request – US Foods Chef Store: Staff presented that the building has 300 linear feet of frontage, allowing 450 sq ft of wall signage; 447 sq ft was already approved. The applicant requested an additional 42 sq ft for a wall sign. Staff advised that freestanding sign space was available. The board discussed the peculiar hardship requirement; members noted no unique hardship was demonstrated. The board voted on each statutory criterion: 1) Unnecessary hardship – 6 aye (hardship not shown), 1 nay; 2) Hardship from peculiar conditions – unanimous aye (conditions not peculiar); 3) Hardship not self-created – unanimous aye; 4) Consistent with spirit – unanimous aye (variance not consistent). Motion to deny the variance passed. - Special Use Permits – Crossland Homes, Alberto Hernandez, LCG Properties, Joyce Wright: For each, staff recommended approval, finding the request could meet development standards. The board approved all four unanimously with staff-recommended conditions (e.g., compliance with building codes, site plan submission for LCG Properties). No discussion raised concerns. - Annual Review of Bars and Microbreweries: Staff reported that data from police, ALE, and ABC commission was received late and not yet compiled. The board voted to continue this item to the February 22, 2024 meeting for a full review with representatives. Key Outcomes - Variance Denied (US Foods Chef Store): Motion to deny passed 6–1 (Jermaine McNair opposed). The board found the variance did not meet the required statutory criteria. - Special Use Permit Approved (Crossland Homes): Unanimous vote to approve with staff conditions. - Special Use Permit Approved (Alberto Hernandez): Unanimous vote to approve with staff conditions. - Special Use Permit Approved (LCG Properties – Anger Management): Unanimous vote to approve with staff conditions, including future site plan submittal. - Special Use Permit Approved (Joyce Wright): Unanimous vote to approve with staff conditions. - Annual Review Continued: Board voted unanimously to continue the review to the February 22, 2024 meeting. - Next Meeting: The board will meet next on February 22, 2024 to consider the continued bar and microbrewery review and any other business.

Date: January 16, 2024, 6:00 PM Location: City Hall Council Chambers, 200 West 5th Street The Greenville Planning and Zoning Commission met to approve minutes from the previous meeting and to consider one rezoning request. The meeting was chaired by Vice Chair Kevin Faith in the absence of Chair Alan Thomas. After an invocation and roll call, the commission deliberated and took action on both agenda items. Approval of Minutes (December 19, 2023) - Commissioner noted a potential discrepancy: the motion to deny Item 3 (Sawyer Fun Park) stated inconsistency with the comprehensive plan, but staff had recommended consistency. The commission opted to approve the minutes conditional on verifying the correct motion wording. The motion to approve with that condition carried unanimously. New Business – Rezoning Request Request: William and Janet Holley seek to rezone 0.3673 acres at the southeastern corner of Pine Drive and Greaves Court from RR (Rural-Residential, Pitt County jurisdiction) to R15S (Residential-Single-Family). Background: The property is experiencing septic tank failure (pumped every 9 months). To connect to city sewer, the property must be annexed; a voluntary annexation application will be presented to City Council on February 8, 2024. Staff Presentation: The site is within Pitt County zoning, surrounded by city R15S zoning. The future land use map recommends residential low-to-medium density. Staff found the request consistent with the comprehensive plan and recommended approval. No traffic study required due to no change in intensity. Public Hearing - William Keith Holley (property owner): Supported the rezoning. He explained sewer stubs already exist from a prior development, but his septic system fails frequently. He stated that most lots in Rosewood would not perk under current standards and that the drain field likely discharged into a ditch. Connecting to city sewer would improve safety and environmental conditions. - No other speakers in favor or opposition. Commission Discussion - Commissioner asked about adjacent vacant lot (also RR, same owner) not included; the property owner chose not to include it. Commissioner inquired about broader annexation of the area; staff explained it must be property-by-property, voluntary. Key Outcomes - Minutes: Approved conditionally, subject to verifying the motion language on Item 3 of December 19, 2023. (Unanimous) - Rezoning (Holley): Motion to recommend approval, finding it consistent with the comprehensive plan and adopting the staff report. Motion carried unanimously. - Adjournment: Motion to adjourn carried without objection.

The Greenville City Council met on Thursday, January 11, 2024, at 6:00 PM in the City Council Chambers. Mayor P.J. Connelly presided. Council members present: Mayor Pro Tem Monica Daniels, Marion Blackburn, Les Robinson, Portia Willis. Council member Matthew Scully was absent. The meeting included public comments, appointments, an update on a property at 902 Ward Street, three public hearings, and the presentation of the annual financial audit. Key actions included approval of several appointments and ordinances, a failed rezoning request, and adoption of the audit findings. Appointments & Committee Assignments - Firefighters Relief Fund Committee: Will Franklin and Eric Mullet reappointed (5-0). - Historic Preservation Commission: Edythe Gianessi and Andrew Morehead reappointed (5-0). - Human Relations Council: Camilya Jones, Rebecca Houston, John Porter-Acee appointed (5-0). - Youth Council: Jack Chen appointed (5-0). - Council committee appointments: Council Member Portia Willis and Marion Blackburn to the Joint Pay & Benefits Committee; Mayor Pro Tem Monica Daniels to the Taxicab Appeal Board (5-0 each). Public Comments & Testimony - Pam Strickland, founder of NC Stop Human Trafficking, spoke about January being Human Trafficking Awareness Month. She noted that North Carolina is in the top 15 states for human trafficking prevalence, with 83% of reported cases involving females and 25% involving minors. She encouraged council and staff to support the Pitt County Coalition Against Human Trafficking and attend a January 31 webinar. Discussion Items 1. Update on 902 Ward Street (Tax Parcel 06722) Code enforcement staff provided a six-month update on the rehab agreement for this fire-damaged property. The owner, Mr. Wilson, has made limited progress; some work does not meet code and will need to be redone. Staff cited failure to request required inspections, covering work before inspection, and no inspections passed. The estimated repair cost is $157,000. Council expressed sympathy for the owner’s efforts but noted the lack of substantial progress. After discussion, the council agreed to honor the one-year extension (through June 2024) and encouraged community assistance to help the owner obtain professional help. 2. Public Hearing: Rezoning Request by RaceTrac, Inc. (3.405 acres at N. Memorial Dr. and Independence Blvd.) The applicant sought to rezone from RA20 (Residential-Agricultural) to CG (General Commercial) for a proposed convenience store with fuel sales. Staff recommended approval; the Planning & Zoning Commission had voted 7-0 for approval. - Speakers in favor: William McKinney (attorney) and Samantha Jones (RaceTrac regional representative) described an $8–10 million investment, 10–15 jobs, and franchisee-controlled food offerings (including potential fresh produce). - Speakers in opposition: Carlos White raised safety concerns for children accessing the store; Karen Zip (Greenville Environmental Advisory Commission) presented maps showing that existing gas stations are disproportionately located in minority communities; Saeen Jasmine (North of the River Association) asked for more time for community input, noting only 9–10 people attended the neighborhood meeting and that there are already 11 gas stations north of the river. - Council discussion: Council members Foreman and Blackburn cited concerns about environmental justice, character of the area, and the type of commercial use (convenience store vs. healthier options). Council members Robinson and Connelly supported the rezoning as a step toward developing the north side of the river. The motion to approve failed 2–3 (Council Members Blackburn, Foreman, and Willis dissenting; Connelly and Robinson in favor). 3. Public Hearing: Subdivision Ordinance Amendment (Plat Review) Staff proposed requiring city review of plats that combine, recombine, or alter lot lines (even when no new lots are created) to prevent unintended zoning violations. The service is free with a 24-hour turnaround. No public comments were offered. Unanimously approved (5-0). 4. Public Hearing: Demolition Ordinance for 1112 Dickinson Avenue (Historic Landmark) The property is a local historic landmark; the estimated repair cost is over $300,000 (exceeding 50% of building value). The property is heir property, and the dwelling has deteriorated significantly. Code enforcement reported that vagrants have entered and set fires, making it unsafe. Carlos White spoke in favor of saving the house, citing its history as a re-entry program site. Council discussion: Council Member Blackburn moved to deny the ordinance to allow community discussions, but the motion failed for lack of a second. Council Member Willis then moved to proceed with demolition through the Historic Preservation Commission process. The motion passed 4–1 (Council Member Blackburn dissenting). 5. Financial Audit Results for FYE June 30, 2023 & Fund Balance Review Chief Financial Officer Jacob Joyner and auditor April Adams (Cherry Bekaert) presented the audit. The city received an unmodified (clean) opinion for the fourth consecutive year. No material weaknesses or significant deficiencies were reported. The audit was submitted one month late due to staff turnover, but no compliance findings were noted. Revenues exceeded expenditures by $6.7 million; sales tax increased 8.3% and investment earnings rose. Unassigned fund balance was $21 million, with an available fund balance of $26.3 million (26.82% of expenditures, above the LGC target of 25%). Council accepted the audit results unanimously (5-0). Consent Calendar (Routine and unanimous actions without public hearing or substantive debate) - Approval of agenda as amended (Item 5 continued to February 8). - Appointments to boards and commissions (all 5-0). - Subdivision ordinance amendment (Item 6) – approved 5-0. - Acceptance of financial audit and fund balance report (Item 8) – approved 5-0. Key Outcomes - Agenda amendment: Item 5 (MUI district density amendment) continued to February 8, 2024. - 902 Ward Street: Council will allow the owner to continue under the existing agreement through June 2024; community resources may be sought to assist. - RaceTrac rezoning: Motion to approve failed (2–3). The property remains zoned RA20. - Subdivision ordinance amendment: Approved unanimously (5-0). - 1112 Dickinson Avenue demolition: Ordinance approved (4–1); owner must file for certificate of appropriateness within 30 days; demolition to occur within 30 days after approval. - Financial audit: Accepted unanimously (5-0). City staff will submit audit to the Local Government Commission and the GFOA for certification. - Meeting adjourned at approximately [time not specified].

The Greenville City Council met on January 8, 2024, at 6:00 PM in the City Council Chambers. Mayor P.J. Connelly presided. All seven council members were present. The meeting included a public comment period, approval of consent and new business items, and a detailed discussion on data processing ordinance No. 22-014. All votes were unanimous (6-0) unless noted. Consent Calendar - Sublease Agreement with State of North Carolina for VIPER tower equipment at 2805 East Second Street – approved 6-0. - Resolution accepting dedication of rights-of-way and easements for Arbor Hills South Cluster Subdivision, Section 2, Phases 10 & 11 (Res. 001-24) – approved 6-0. - Resolution and Deed of Release for abandonment of a 10-foot wide electrical easement across Tax Parcel No. 73527 (Res. 002-24) – approved 6-0. - Ordinance adopting Greenville Utilities Commission's capital project budget for Whitehurst Station Water Main Extension Project (Ord. 24-001) – approved 6-0. - Ordinance amending and reimbursement resolution for Greenville Utilities Commission's capital project budget for Wastewater Treatment Plant Clarifier Project (Ord. 24-002, Res. 004-24) – approved 6-0. - Resolution declaring Police Canine Suny as surplus and authorizing disposition to Officer Nathan Lather (Res. 003-24) – approved 6-0. - Amendment 2 to Existing On-Call Engineering Services Agreement with The East Group – approved 6-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Jerry McRoy, Greenville resident, expressed opposition to the city planning staff working with a non-city business on a zoning text change, questioning why citizens' concerns were not prioritized. - Molly Holdeman, resident of 776 White Horse Drive, opposed cryptocurrency mining, citing Compute North's bankruptcy and urging the council to remove ordinance 22-014. She referenced counties that implemented moratoriums or bans. - Kayla Burrows, resident, criticized irresponsible growth (car washes, gas stations) and called on the council to publicly support a ceasefire in Palestine. - Dr. Yoshi Neumann, resident, opposed the 2022 data processing ordinance, advocating for a green economy model and urging the council to change direction. - Dr. David Ames, representing Sierra Club, opposed cryptocurrency mining due to negative environmental impacts and greenhouse gas emissions. - Don Pavellini, resident, thanked council members for revisiting the data processing ordinance and referenced former Planning and Zoning Board member Hap Maxwell's changed position. - Holly Garriott, Executive Director of Emerge Gallery and Arts Center (Pitt County Arts Council), thanked the city for supporting the First Friday Art Walk and the Emerald Express trolley service, noting record ridership and economic impact. - Rev. Bob Hoodak, representing Interfaith Clergy Standing for the Community, opposed the Compute North proposal and called for transparent dialogue, stating that saying no to crypto has brought the community together. Discussion Items - 2050 Metropolitan Transportation Plan (Item 8): Transportation Planner Eliud DeJesus explained the federally required 5-year update for the Greenville Urban Area MPO, with a 25-year horizon. The plan must be adopted by July 2024. Councilmember Blackburn highlighted the importance of the plan. The contract was awarded to Kimley-Horn. Approved 6-0. - DownEast Sculpture Exhibition (Item 9): Holly Garriott presented the annual outdoor sculpture exhibition. One selected sculpture ("Pluma Sculptura" by Kirk Seese) was lost due to timing; alternate "Reclaimed Tension" by Kevin Vanek was substituted. Installations will begin in February 2024. Approved 6-0. - Gateway Sign Construction (Item 10): Assistant Director of Public Works Kevin Hefferan reported that Hudson Brothers Construction Company was the lowest responsible bidder at $261,000 for a new gateway sign on I-587/U.S. 264. The project includes a 150-day completion timeline. Council members expressed interest in additional signs at other city entrances. Approved 6-0. - 2024 Rehabilitation and Preservation Project (Item 11): Civil Engineer Lynn Rayner detailed the contract with S.T. Wooten Corporation ($3,702,880.20) for milling, resurfacing, ADA improvements, and pavement preservation on 48.25 lane miles. Also approved Task Order 5 with TranSystems for construction inspection ($273,260). Council highlighted the increase in street funding from $500,000 to over $4 million. Approved 6-0. - Investment Advisory Services (Item 12): Financial Services Director Jacob Joyner recommended Valley View Consulting after an RFQ process. The firm will provide comprehensive advisory services for the city's growing investment portfolio. Approved 6-0. - Budget Ordinance Amendment 6 (Item 13): Jacob Joyner presented amendments to Capital Projects, Donations, and Special Revenue Grant funds, including recognizing donations, closing out projects, and reallocating funds. No impact on operating funds. Approved 6-0 (Ord. 24-003). - Discussion of Ordinance No. 22-014 (Modular Data Processing) (Item 14): Councilmember Blackburn requested discussion, citing harms from cryptocurrency mining and noting that other North Carolina counties have imposed moratoriums or bans. Chief Planner Chantae Gooby explained that the ordinance covers all data processing (including banks, insurance) and sets standards such as 2,500-foot separation from residences. If the ordinance were removed, data processing would fall under "otherwise not listed" and require a Special Use Permit through the Board of Adjustment, losing city council oversight. After debate, Councilmember Blackburn amended her motion to ask staff to prepare a report with options (including potential moratorium or amended standards) to be presented at the March 2024 City Council Workshop. The motion passed 6-0. Key Outcomes - All agenda items passed unanimously (6-0). - The January 22, 2024 City Council meeting was cancelled due to lack of business (6-0). - Staff will provide a report on possible amendments to Ordinance 22-014 at the March 2024 workshop. - A planning retreat is scheduled for January 26-27, 2024, to set goals for the new two-year term.

The Greenville City Council held a workshop on January 8, 2024, at 9:15 AM (per meeting records; the agenda listed a 4:00 PM start time). The workshop covered three major agenda items: an interim report on the sports complex feasibility study, a preview of the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) project, and a presentation from the Greenville Police Department on recruitment and retention efforts. The agenda was approved unanimously (4-0). No public comments were heard. Discussion Items Sports Complex Feasibility Study Interim Report - Andrew Schmidt (President/CEO of Greenville ENC, encompassing the sports commission) introduced Brian Connolly, founder and managing principal of Victus Advisors. The city engaged Victus in 2023 to conduct a sports tourism market and financial analysis. - Connolly presented findings from Phase I (market research). Key points: - Baseball and softball are the primary drivers of sports tourism in Greenville, generating the most hotel nights over the past three years despite the lack of a dedicated multi-field complex. - Greenville has strong partnerships with national organizations (e.g., USA Softball, Little League) and a reputation as a baseball mecca (named Sportstown USA in NC). - Currently, the area lacks "sports tourism caliber facilities" – e.g., no complex with eight or more ball diamonds, basketball/volleyball courts, rectangular fields, or a 50-meter pool. - Over 25 million people live within a five-hour drive. Pitt County has 2,100+ hotel rooms with average daily rates ($80–$120) well below the national average ($150), a competitive advantage. - Stakeholders (city, Visit Greenville, county, ECU) unanimously support sports tourism as aligned with organizational goals. - The top opportunity for return on investment is a baseball/softball complex (8–12 diamonds), followed by an indoor court facility, outdoor rectangular fields, and a 50-meter pool. - Phase II (financial/economic analysis) will be presented at the council planning session on January 27, 2024. It will include operating models, cost estimates, economic impact, and funding options. - Councilmember questions/input: - Councilmember Barber requested inclusion of transportation access and consideration of track and field. Connolly noted track was evaluated but did not rank in the top four opportunities. - Councilmember Skelly emphasized the need to involve ECU, the county, and schools in funding and usage discussions. - Mayor Connolly stressed that the study was not a self-fulfilling prophecy but an objective look at market potential. Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) Project - Chief Planner Shante Gooby presented an overview. The UDO will consolidate and modernize the city's zoning and subdivision ordinances, which have not been comprehensively updated since the 1990s. - Goals: user-friendly language with diagrams/pictures, elimination of redundancies, updates for legislative changes, and improved predictability. - A consultant has been selected; a contract approval item will come before council on February 5, 2024. - The project timeline is 18–24 months, with task force meetings, public engagement, and eventual consideration by the Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council. Target adoption: fall/winter 2025. - Councilmember Barber noted the UDO aligns with addressing climate change, vegetation, accessibility, sprawl, and center city development. She asked about task force composition and emphasized including diverse voices (disabilities, environmental groups, etc.). Staff will share the task force roster with council. - Councilmember questioned whether updating the Horizons comprehensive plan first would be more advantageous. Staff explained the current Horizons plan remains useful and the UDO is more overdue; a separate Horizons update will follow after the UDO is completed. Police Department Recruitment and Retention - City Manager and Chief of Police Sauls presented a plan to address staffing shortages. Current sworn officer vacancies: 27 (with 10 in the academy, potentially reducing to 17). Since March 2022, vacancies have never been below 22 and peaked at 44. - Key statistics: - Greenville's starting police salary ($48,672) ranks 7th among benchmark cities, down from 3rd. The state average for vacancy is approximately 25%; Greenville has held around 15%. - Approximately 50% of officers leave before year 7, with about half going to other agencies. Reasons: higher starting pay, less workload, location, better incentives. - Each year since 2019, the department has lost about 20 sworn officers. - Training takes 16–20 weeks for basic law enforcement plus 16–20 weeks field training; the department mandates over 60 hours of annual in-service training (state minimum is 24). - Proposed changes (mid-year adjustments): 1. Increase starting pay from $48,672 to $51,106, with an additional 5% after six-month probation (to $53,661). This would move Greenville to 2nd or 3rd among benchmark cities. 2. Create a Senior Patrol Officer rank at the 4-year mark with a 5% pay increase; adjust Advanced Patrol Officer (APO) from 2% to 2.5% and maintain Master Patrol Officer (MPO) at 10% increase at 10 years. 3. Add a 2.5% incentive for military service and a second language (Spanish) incentive. 4. Future consideration of a loyalty incentive for officers at 15+ years. - Other initiatives: co-responder model with Trillium for mental health calls, civilian traffic crash investigators (four positions to handle property-damage-only crashes, expected to reduce officer call volume by 25%). - Councilmember Robinson praised the work and suggested being more aggressive (e.g., highest paid in state) to attract experienced officers. Chief Sauls noted that the department is already seeing officers from other states and emphasized the need for competitive pay and retention. - City manager indicated these adjustments can be funded within current revenues and overtime savings, with full budget implications to be addressed in the upcoming budget process. Key Outcomes - The agenda was approved 4-0. - No formal votes were taken on the substantive items; they were presented for discussion and future action. - The Sports Complex Feasibility Study will continue with Phase II presented at the January 27 planning session. - The UDO contract will be brought to council for approval on February 5. - Police pay and recruitment recommendations will be considered as part of the mid-year budget adjustment and the upcoming budget cycle. Council indicated support for further steps if the initial changes are insufficient.

The Greenville Planning and Zoning Commission met on December 19, 2023, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The meeting included consideration of several text amendments, a rezoning, a preliminary plat, and a subdivision ordinance amendment. After extensive public comment and deliberation, the commission approved a text amendment for the Mixed Use Institutional (MUI) district, denied a text amendment that would have allowed commercial recreation in the RA20 district, and unanimously approved the remaining items. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 2 (MUI Text Amendment): Tim Elliott, petitioner and principal of Elliot Sidewalk Communities, spoke in favor, emphasizing the need for residential units to make the project financially feasible and to create a vibrant downtown. Merle Flood, Director of Millennial Campus Planning at East Carolina University, also spoke in support, noting that the development agreement prohibits student housing and that residential is a necessary component of the innovation campus. No opposition was voiced. - Item 3 (RA20 Commercial Recreation Text Amendment): The applicant’s representatives (Scott Anderson, TJ Sawyer) spoke in favor, detailing the proposed standards (200-foot setback, 60 dB noise limit, half-foot-candle lighting, electric go-karts) and the need for a special use permit. A large group of residents from Quarry Ridge, Blackwood, and nearby neighborhoods spoke in opposition. Their concerns included: increased traffic on Quarry Road (currently 4,000–8,000 trips/day, road designed for 12,000), safety for children and pedestrians, noise from outdoor music and go-karts, light pollution, decreased property values, and a lack of prior consultation. Several speakers noted that Pitt County’s planning staff had recommended denial of a previous rezoning request, and the county planning board voted 7–0 against it. One resident submitted a recording of amplified music heard from her backyard 600 feet away. - Item 6 (Subdivision Ordinance Amendment): Powell Due, a property owner, spoke in favor, explaining that his map had been recorded without city review, causing legal complications. He supported the amendment to require city staff review of lot line alterations to prevent similar issues. No opposition was voiced. Discussion Items - Item 2 – Request by Elliot Sidewalk Communities to amend MUI district standards: The current code limits residential uses to 25% of total building square footage per phase. The applicant proposed changing the calculation to 35% of total land area (cap of 400 units) across the entire MUI district, to allow phasing residential construction earlier. Staff and the applicant argued that the change would enable a bankable first phase (125–150 units) and that the 400-unit cap prevents all-residential development. Commissioner concerns centered on ensuring that future developers cannot “front-load” residential and leave institutional uses unbuilt. After discussion, the commission voted to recommend approval, finding the amendment consistent with the comprehensive plan. - Item 3 – Request by Amanda Bambrick to establish “commercial recreation; indoor and outdoor” as a special use in RA20 zones: The proposed standards included a 200-foot setback (reduced to 100 feet adjacent to city-owned recreational facilities), 60-decibel noise limit at the property line, vegetative buffers, and half-foot-candle lighting limit. Staff presented a comparative analysis of regulations in Raleigh, Charlotte, Greensboro, Winston-Salem, Durham, Wilmington, and Myrtle Beach, showing wide variation. Opponents argued that the amendment would effectively allow an expansion of Sawyer’s Fun Park (the likely applicant) and that the road, noise, and traffic problems are already significant. The applicant countered that gas-powered go-karts would be replaced with electric ones, and the driving range would use low-light TrackMan technology. Several commissioners expressed concern about citywide implications and the risk of setting a precedent for RA20 areas. The motion to recommend approval failed 1–5; a subsequent motion to recommend denial passed (approximately 5–1). - Item 4 – Request by RaceTrac, Inc. to rezone 3.405 acres from RA20 to CG (General Commercial): The site is at the southwest corner of North Memorial Drive and Independence Boulevard. Staff reported that the future land use map was amended to commercial in October 2023, and the proposed convenience store with gas sales would generate a net increase of 2,594 trips per day. The applicant held a neighborhood meeting on December 13, 2023. No public opposition. The commission voted unanimously to recommend approval. - Item 5 – Preliminary plat for Lynndale East Subdivision, Sections 1–5: The plat adds 8 lots on 136 acres at the termini of Remington Drive and Stonehenge Drive. The Subdivision Review Board had already approved it. No public comment. The commission voted unanimously to approve. - Item 6 – Subdivision Ordinance amendment: Staff proposed requiring city staff review of plats that combine, recombine, or alter lot lines prior to recordation, at no charge. The amendment aims to prevent zoning violations (e.g., creating multi-family lots inadvertently). No public opposition. The commission voted unanimously to approve. Key Outcomes - Item 2 (MUI Text Amendment): Motion to recommend approval passed (voice vote, no recorded dissent). - Item 3 (RA20 Commercial Recreation Text Amendment): Motion to recommend approval failed (1 in favor, 5 opposed). Motion to recommend denial passed (5 in favor, 1 opposed). Final recommendation: denial. - Item 4 (RaceTrac Rezoning): Motion to recommend approval passed unanimously. - Item 5 (Lynndale East Preliminary Plat): Motion to approve passed unanimously. - Item 6 (Subdivision Ordinance Amendment): Motion to approve passed unanimously. The commission adjourned after completing the agenda.

The Greenville City Council convened on December 14, 2023 at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The meeting was called to order by Mayor P.J. Connolly with all six council members present. Items on the agenda included special recognitions, public comments, appointments, consent agenda, public hearings, and new business. The meeting concluded with a closed session. Special Recognitions - Presentation of a $5,000,000 check from the North Carolina General Assembly for the Town Common Bulkhead Project, accepted by Mayor Connolly on behalf of the city. Representatives Tim Reeder and Gloria Stearns Brown presented the check for flood mitigation in downtown Greenville. - Recognition of Frankie Smith, a Recreation and Parks Department retiree with over 30 years of service, for his dedication to maintaining city parks and facilities. Public Comments & Testimony - DeWitt Newkirk: Expressed concerns that minority contractors are not winning city projects due to stricter regulations and lack of notification. He asked the city to review the process and ensure equal opportunity. - Dr. Yoshi Newman: Supported the new council and city manager, urging a holistic ("360-degree") approach to community decisions that includes socioeconomic and environmental factors. - Caleb Farrell: Called on the city to support a ceasefire in Gaza, citing the loss of family members by a fellow student and the need for leadership on human rights. Appointments - Rick Smiley appointed to Boards and Commissions (unanimous). - Audit and Investment Committee: Mayor Pro Tem Daniels, Councilmember Willis, and Councilmember Scully appointed (all 6-0). - Joint Pay and Benefits Committee and Taxicab Appeal Board appointments postponed to January. - Greenville ENC Alliance Board Liaison: Councilmember Willis appointed (6-0). - Mid-East Commission: Les Everett (regular member) and Chris Kelly (alternate) appointed (6-0). - City Council Committee Assignments: Mayor assigned council members to various boards and commissions, including Housing Authority, Planning and Zoning, and others. Consent Calendar - Approved items 7–12 (drainage easement release, lease agreement with Greenville Industrial-Eppes Alumni Heritage Society, temporary construction easement, consent to sale of Hampton Inn, surplus vehicles and equipment, tax refunds) except Item 10 was pulled for separate discussion and later approved 6-0. Item 10: City consent to sale of Hampton Inn to Opal affiliates, with conditions preserving the city's option rights and requiring continued operation as a Hampton Inn or similar caliber hotel. Public Hearings - Item 13 – Annexation of Camelot Subdivision Lot: A 0.4229-acre lot on Lancelot Drive voluntarily annexed to access city sewer due to septic tank failure. Approved 6-0. - Item 14 – Rezone 0.59 acres from RA20 to CG on East Fire Tower Road: Applicant (Bells Fork Partners) seeks to square off a parcel for a self-storage development. Council debated tree preservation and buffer zones but could not impose additional conditions. Approved 5-1 (Councilmember Blackburn voted against). - Item 15 – Second Reading of Code Enforcement and Nuisance Ordinances: Revisions to Title 9 and Title 12 to align with state law, update penalties (first violation $100, second $250, third $500), and clarify processes. Approved 6-0. - Item 17 – First Public Hearing for 2024-2025 Annual Action Plan for CDBG and HOME Funds: Presented planned activities including housing rehabilitation, down payment assistance, and rental assistance. No vote required. Discussion Items - Public Art Presentation – DownEast Sculpture Exhibition: Holly Garriott (Emerge Gallery) presented five recommended sculptures for city properties (e.g., at Town Common, Greenway). Council will vote at the January 2024 meeting. - Amendments to Housing Programs: Approved (6-0) with the following changes: - Down Payment Assistance: Maximum award increased from $20,000 to $40,000; city willing to take fourth lien position to allow layering with state subsidies. - Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation: Maximum CDBG repair cap increased from $60,000 to $75,000; repayment percentage reduced by 4% to keep monthly payments similar. - Tenant-Based Rental Assistance: One-time assistance increased from $1,500 to $2,000 for rent arrears, funded by HOME-ARPA funds. - Award of Construction Contract – Dream Park Community Building: Contract awarded to Ferry and Sons for $1,780,000 (ARPA-funded). Renovation of the old fire station includes lobby, office, storage, warming kitchen, and multi-use assembly room. Approved 6-0. - Award of Construction Contract – Guy Smith Stadium Improvements: Phase II contract awarded to Barry Building Group for $710,000. Includes additional seating (361 seats), restrooms, concession area, and safety netting. Phase I is underway; Phase II to be completed by May 1, 2024 for Coastal Plain League season. Approved 6-0. - Budget Ordinance Amendment 5: Recognized receipts from United Way Chili Cook-Off, Pitt County Soccer Association donation, increased investment and sales tax revenues, reallocated funds for street repairs, and accepted police department donations. Approved 6-0. Key Outcomes - Town Common Bulkhead Project received $5,000,000 in state funding; city will need additional $15,000,000 to complete. - Rezoning for self-storage on Fire Tower Road approved 5-1 with conditions on buffer and tree preservation discussed but not enforceable. - Housing program amendments approved unanimously, expanding down payment aid to $40,000 and increasing rehabilitation and rental assistance limits. - Two construction contracts awarded: Dream Park Community Building ($1.78M) and Guy Smith Stadium improvements ($710,000). - Council entered closed session to consult with attorney on litigation and economic development incentives. City Manager's Report and Council Comments - City Manager Michael Cowan thanked staff and wished a Merry Christmas. - Council members congratulated each other, expressed holiday wishes, and noted appreciation for staff and community. Councilmember Scully was appointed as liaison to the Convention and Visitors Bureau.

The City of Greenville held its installation ceremony for the newly elected Mayor and City Council on Monday, December 11, 2023, at 6:00 PM in the City Council Chambers. The ceremony included invocation, presentation of colors, national anthem, pledge of allegiance, certification of election results, administration of oaths, election of the Mayor Pro Tem, and an opening address by Mayor P.J. Connelly. All council members were sworn in and a light reception followed. Invocation and Pledge - Father Romen Acero of St. Gabriel’s Catholic Church delivered the invocation. - The Greenville Police Department presented colors. - Ruffin Keys of Greenville Fire/Rescue performed the Star Spangled Banner. - A group of children led the Pledge of Allegiance. Board of Elections Certifications - City Manager Michael Cowin certified the election results from the November 7, 2023 election, confirming the winners: Mayor P.J. Connelly, At-Large Portia C. Willis, District 1 Monica Daniels, District 2 Tanya Foreman, District 3 Marion Blackburn, District 4 Matthew Scully, and District 5 Les Robinson. Oath of Office Administration - Judge Mario E. Perez administered the oath of office to each elected official. Family and friends were invited forward for each swearing-in. Councilmembers took an oath to support the U.S. and North Carolina constitutions and faithfully discharge their duties. Election of Mayor Pro Tem - Councilmember Monica Daniels was nominated for Mayor Pro Tem. No other nominations were made. The council voted 6-0 in favor, passing unanimously. Councilmember Daniels accepted the position. Opening Address - Mayor P.J. Connelly delivered an opening address, thanking attendees and congratulating council members. He highlighted past achievements in economic growth, quality of life, and Greenville's role as an economic, medical, and educational hub. He expressed hope for continued economic development, job creation, and fostering an inclusive community. He called for unity and collaboration among council members. Adjournment - A motion to adjourn was made by Councilmember Blackburn, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Monica Daniels. The motion passed 6-0. The meeting adjourned with a light reception in the Third Floor Gallery Room. Key Outcomes - All elected officials were sworn in. - Monica Daniels was elected Mayor Pro Tem by a 6-0 vote. - The meeting adjourned unanimously.

The Greenville Planning and Zoning Commission met on Tuesday, November 21, 2023, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. Chair Alan Brock presided. The commission approved two rezoning requests, two preliminary plats, and tabled two text amendments to the December 19, 2023 meeting after extensive discussion. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the October 17, 2023 meeting were approved unanimously. - Continuations: Items 3 (RaceTrac rezoning) and 4 (Dalton T. Jones Subdivision preliminary plat) were continued to the December 19, 2023 meeting by unanimous vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 2 (Bells Fork rezoning): Scott Anderson, representing the applicant, spoke in favor. No opposition was voiced. - Item 5 (Davencroft Section 4 preliminary plat): Mike Baldwin, representing the property owners, spoke in favor. No opposition. - Item 6 (Greenville Station Road Apartments preliminary plat): Scott Anderson spoke in favor. No opposition. Commissioner West recused himself due to a client relationship. - Item 7 (MUI text amendment): No public comments were offered. Chair Brock opened and closed the public hearing without speakers. - Item 8 (Commercial recreation in RA20 text amendment): - In favor: Amanda Bambrick, attorney for the applicant (Sawyer's Fun Park), and TJ Sawyer, owner, spoke in favor, describing plans for electric go-karts, mini-golf, and other recreational uses with extensive mitigation measures (200-foot setbacks, evergreen buffers, 60 dBA noise limit, annual special use permit review). They noted that a neighborhood meeting had been held on August 31, 2023, and that electric go-karts operate at approximately 60 decibels. - Opposition: Jerry and Louise McRoy, residents of Quarry Ridge subdivision adjacent to the property, and Hugh Bryan, president of the Cory Ridge Homeowners Association, spoke in opposition. They cited past noise complaints, lack of trust, concerns about traffic, lighting, and the impact of a two-story golf driving range. They argued that the text amendment would remove future neighborhood input and that the applicant had not been a good neighbor historically. Louise McRoy stated that special use permit conditions were insufficient based on past behavior. Discussion Items - Item 7 – MUI District Text Amendment (Elliot Sidewalk Communities): Staff presented a request to change the residential cap in the Mixed-Use Institutional district from 25% of building square footage to 35% of total land area with a 400-unit cap. Staff noted that the only MUI district in the city is the Intersect East project near ECU. Commissioners raised concerns that the new formula could allow a developer to build 400 residential units without building any commercial uses, creating a loophole. The applicant’s representative, Alex Flint, could not explain how the 400-unit cap was determined. Commissioner West moved to table the item to December for more information from the applicant. Motion passed unanimously. - Item 8 – Commercial Recreation Text Amendment (Amanda Bambrick): Staff described the proposed amendment to add “commercial recreation; indoor and outdoor” as a special use in RA20 on parcels at least 20 acres, with strict standards: 200-foot setbacks (reduced to 100 feet adjacent to city-owned recreational facilities), buffer yard E (evergreens), 60 dBA noise limit, lighting limits of 0.5 foot-candles at property line, and annual special use permit review. Commissioners debated the potential for uses like Top Golf, driving ranges with tall netting, and the citywide impact. Concerns were raised about height restrictions, pole heights, and whether such uses were adequately defined. Chair Brock suggested tabling to gather information from other cities on similar uses. Motion to table passed (voice vote). Key Outcomes - Item 2 (Bells Fork rezoning): Approved (voice vote, unanimous). - Item 5 (Davencroft preliminary plat): Approved (voice vote, unanimous). - Item 6 (Greenville Station Road Apartments preliminary plat): Approved after commissioner recusals left three voting members; all voted aye. - Item 7 (MUI text amendment): Tabled to the December 19, 2023 meeting for additional applicant input. - Item 8 (Commercial recreation text amendment): Tabled to the December 19, 2023 meeting to allow staff to research comparable city standards for specific recreational uses (e.g., driving ranges, Top Golf) and to permit potential language tweaks.