OPENPUBLICA · PUBLIC MEETING RECORD
Record of Proceedings

Wilmington City Council Regular Meeting – February 4, 2025

City Council & Planning Commission — Tuesday, February 4, 2025
BodyWilmington, North Carolina
SessionCity Council & Planning Commission
DateTuesday, February 4, 2025
StatusFILED
Video Record
0:00 / 5:33:33

Transcript — Verbatim
0:04

I'm going to call the meeting order of the Wilmington City Council.

0:06

I'd like to welcome all those who are with us this evening and all those who are watching us at home.

0:10

Thank you for taking an interest in your government.

0:13

At this time, I want to call on Mayor Pro Tim Barnett.

0:16

If you'll please rise, he's going to give us our invocation and Mary Stan afterwards for the Pledge of Allegiance.

0:23

Let's pray.

0:25

Eternal Father, as we gather tonight, we pause to thank you for your mercy.

0:33

Thank you for your grace.

0:34

Thank you as my mama would remind me that you still have the whole world in your hands.

0:41

Now no, I know, I know.

0:42

If it was in my hands, um, my hands are too weak, my hands fumble, my hands make mistakes, my hands drop stuff that I try to hold on to.

0:53

But thank you, God, that we're still in the hollow of your hand.

0:58

And so from that spot, help us to make great decisions.

1:02

From that spot, help us to love each other more.

1:06

From that spot, help us to reach our hands out to help each other.

1:10

But we ask it all in his name.

1:13

Amen.

1:14

Pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

1:40

We have several presentations this evening.

1:42

Our first presentation is I'd like to recognize Miss Evelyn Adger, who's the chair of the Commission on African American History, and Mr.

1:51

Leron Montgomery, president of the North Carolina County County NAACP proclamation naming February 2025 as Black History Month.

2:01

If they'll meet me up front, please.

3:27

Whereas it is vital to acknowledge the importance of education, awareness, and the preservation of history to continue fostering mutual respect, understanding, and inclusivity among all people, regardless of race, background, or heritage.

3:42

And whereas Black History Month serves as a reminder of the importance of continuing to break down barriers, challenges injustices, and uplifts the voices and experiences of African Americans in every community throughout this country.

3:58

Now, therefore, I will say for Mayor of Wilmington, do hereby proclaim the month of February as Black History Month and call upon all citizens to reflect upon the history, culture, and contributions of African Americans to celebrate the accomplishments and enduring spirit of the black community and to continue striving toward equality and justice for all people.

4:22

And I want to thank this committee for the outstanding work and the NAACP for the outstanding work that you do in our community day in and day out to reflect all of this that's in this proclamation tonight.

4:33

So congratulations and thank you.

4:36

Thank you.

4:47

Thank you.

5:10

Just I'd like to recognize Mark Bitteson, who's the chairman of the Southeastern North Carolina Veterans Day Parade.

5:17

This presentation of thanks.

5:21

Come on up, Mark.

5:23

Want to come on up?

5:24

Come on.

5:26

When everybody to see you.

5:30

Thank you, guys.

5:33

I would.

5:33

I would.

5:35

Good evening, Mayor Sappho and Council members, uh, city staff, and I don't know whether Kayla Perkins is here.

5:43

She's our contact with the city.

5:45

I don't see her out there.

5:46

And the members of the public.

5:48

My name is Mark Biddison.

5:50

This is Jim Ware.

5:51

I have the honor of serving as one of the dedicated volunteers on the SENC Veterans Parade Committee.

5:58

Some of my fellow committee members are here tonight, and on behalf of all of us, thank you for allowing us this opportunity to come and speak.

6:08

In 2016, a small group of us came together with a shared goal to recognize and honor the service and sacrifice of local veterans.

6:18

We believed a parade dedicated solely to them was the perfect way to show our gratitude.

6:24

And so the SENC Veterans Parade was born.

6:29

From the beginning, we established some guiding principles that still define our parade today.

6:35

First and foremost, this event is about celebrating and honoring veterans.

6:41

Participation is limited to veterans, active duty personnel, reservists, veteran support groups, and marching bands.

6:50

Secondly, all veterans are welcome, regardless of when or where they served or which branch of the military they were in.

6:58

We hold close the powerful words of our Vietnam veterans that said, Never again will one generation of veterans abandon another.

7:08

Our first parade was in took place in 2017 on a bitterly cold day, if you remember, Mayor, in downtown Wilmington.

7:17

But despite the weather, nearly 600 participants showed up, marched down Front Street, including more than 30 World War II veterans, and most of them have gone on.

7:30

In 2018, the City of Wilmington officially gave us its full support, allowing us to expand the parade and include more veterans each year.

7:40

Since then, we recognized many different groups of veterans for special honors, like World War II veterans and women veterans and Vietnam veterans, etc.

7:51

This year we hope to honor Major James Capers, a U.S.

7:55

Marine veteran currently under consideration in Congress for the Medal of Honor, the highest military decoration awarded, excuse me for extraordinary valor.

Discussion Breakdown — Share of Meeting
Zoning And Land Use████████████████16%
Legal Framework███████████████15%
Noise Ordinance████████████12%
Public Safety████████8%
Parks and Recreation███████7%
Procedural██████6%
Property Maintenance██████6%
Public Engagement████4%
Engineering And Infrastructure████4%
Summary of Proceedings

Wilmington City Council Regular Meeting – February 4, 2025

On February 4, 2025, the Wilmington City Council met at 6:30 PM in City Hall, Skyline Center, 929 N. Front Street. The meeting extended past midnight, concluding at 12:30 AM on February 5, after waiving rules of order. Mayor Bill Saffo presided; all seven councilmembers were present: Mayor Pro-Tem Clifford Barnett Sr., Charlie Rivenbark, Kevin Spears, Luke Waddell, David Joyner, and Salette Andrews. The meeting included presentations, a consent agenda, public comments, seven public hearings, three ordinances, and one resolution.

Presentations

  • Proclamation – Black History Month: Mayor Saffo read a proclamation naming February 2025 as Black History Month, presented to Ms. Evelyn Adger (Chair, Commission on African American History) and Mr. Leron Montgomery (President, New Hanover County NAACP).
  • Veterans Parade Thanks: Marc Biddison, Chairman SENC Veterans Day Parade, thanked the City and Mayor Saffo for support. He noted the parade began in 2017 with 600 participants and has grown each year.
  • Workforce Housing Advisory Committee Annual Update: Chair Tom Gale reported that median home prices in the area have risen over 85% in the past seven years and rents have increased over 50% in five years. He reviewed accomplishments: the City served over 18,000 individuals and committed 287 affordable housing units; the County served 381 households. Recommendations for 2025 include developing a housing fund with the New Hanover County Endowment, continuing the Workforce Housing Services Program with at least $5 million annually starting in 2027, and exploring parking reductions in exchange for affordable units. Gale noted over 100,000 daily commuter trips into the county and stressed the need to retain the workforce.
  • Shew Legacy Park Presentation: Dr. Roger Shew, UNCW geologist, proposed a vision for a 60‑acre site along Independence Boulevard that was previously considered for rezoning. He suggested a mixed-use “green” space featuring agriculture, agrivoltaics, longleaf pine restoration, water monitoring, nature trails, and passive recreation. He emphasized educational and community engagement opportunities, and noted the property is currently owned by New Hanover County.
  • Duke Energy Grant: Pam Hardy, District Manager, presented a $25,000 grant to purchase and install flood gauges in floodplain areas to aid first responders during major weather events.

Consent Calendar

All seven consent items were approved 7‑0 via a single motion:

  • C1: Approval of meeting minutes from January 21, 2025.
  • C2: Resolution authorizing a new lease for the fourth floor of 115 N. 3rd Street (continued from January 21).
  • C3: Resolution awarding a citywide tree planting contract to Thorpe Landscapes of Wilmington LLC for 464 trees at $382,635, and suspending Richard J. Carlson LLC (Carlson’s Landscaping) from future tree bids for 18 months.
  • C4: Resolution authorizing the City Manager to apply for a $235,200 N.C. Accessible Parks Grant to replace the Fit For Fun Center playground with an ADA accessible playground.
  • C5: Resolution awarding a $500,000 contract to Kittelson & Associates, Inc. for the development of a regional Safe Streets and Roadways for All Safety Action Plan for the Wilmington Urban Area MPO.
  • C6: Resolution awarding the annual needs sidewalk maintenance contract to Jymco Construction Company, Inc. for $1,052,710.
  • C7: Resolution approving a change in delegation of permit authority for the EPA National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System stormwater permit.

Public Comments & Testimony

Five speakers addressed the Council:

  • Jordan Pettid, President, Wilmington Professional Fire Fighters Association, spoke about cancer in the fire service on World Cancer Day (Feb. 4). He stated that 66% of firefighter line‑of‑duty deaths from 2002‑2019 were due to cancer. He highlighted PFAS in gear and the cost of annual cancer screenings ($350 each). He advocated for PFAS‑free gear and support for the N.C. Firefighter Cancer Benefit Program.
  • Trish Rioux requested a pause or moratorium on development along Independence Boulevard, River Road, and Carolina Beach Road until infrastructure (traffic devices, roundabout, four‑lane conversion) is in place. She also asked for a new elementary school using land dedicated by Riverlights developer, and for protection of natural areas. She noted over 4,000 daily trips would be added by recent and proposed developments.
  • Cassie Payton recounted her May 27, 2024 sexual assault and said WPD failed to collect evidence, leading to charges being declined. She requested a meeting with WPD, the Mayor, and Council. She reported gathering nearly 9,000 petition signatures and founding The Daring Collective. She asked for resources to secure a government building for survivor support meetings.
  • Rev. Kojo Nantambu thanked the Mayor and Council for admitting a mistake in “hounding” Chief Williams and warned of end times.
  • Billy Craig criticized the Wilmington Police Department, alleging low morale, skewed crime statistics, and improper report downgrades. He urged Council to take action.

Discussion Items

Public Hearings

  • PH1 – 333 Mercer Avenue: Ordinance to vacate, close, repair, or demolish an unfit dwelling. Chief Code Enforcement Officer Brian Renner reported the house was vacant since the owner died in 2022, with multiple break‑ins. Estimated repair cost: $46,757 (54% of tax value). A family member contacted city staff expressing interest in demolishing the garage and cleaning the house. Approved 7‑0; second reading waived.
  • PH2 – 4040 Appleton Way: Ordinance to repair or demolish a detached garage. Renner said the garage is dilapidated; the elderly owner has moved in with family. Family members asked the city to demolish it. Approved 7‑0; second reading waived.
  • PH3 – Special Use Permit for Private Recreation at 4950 Holly Tree Rd & 340 Westchester Rd: Quasi‑judicial hearing. After determining standing for three residents (Emily Bischoff, Shirley McIntyre, Rob Marshall) and denying standing for two others, the Council heard expert testimony from the applicant (Sam Potter), a civil engineer, an appraiser, and a sound engineer. The applicant proposed converting tennis courts to pickleball, adding indoor and outdoor courts, expanding the clubhouse, and adding a restaurant. Conditions were added: outdoor courts open at 9 AM on weekdays, use of sound‑reducing paddles outside, no outdoor tournament play, an 800 individual membership cap, and open access to a walkway through the site. The Council approved the permit 7‑0; second reading waived.
  • PH4 – Norwood Avenue ADU Rezoning: To allow accessory dwelling units on four lots. Represented by Cindee Wolfe, who noted a self‑imposed 90‑day minimum lease requirement. Approved 6‑0 (Mayor Saffo not seated); second reading waived.
  • PH5 – Still Meadow Drive Rezoning: To add 56 multi‑dwelling units and an amenity center to an existing 280‑unit complex (total 336 units). Staff recommended approval. Approved 7‑0; second reading waived.
  • PH6 – 14 Wilmington Avenue Rezoning: For a 12‑unit townhome development on 0.8 acres. Staff recommended approval. Approved 7‑0; second reading waived.
  • PH7 – Surface Commercial Parking Lots Exemption in LI & IND Districts: To exempt commercial parking lots in light industrial and general industrial districts from maximum street frontage standards. Represented by FedUp Foods. The Chamber of Commerce spoke in support. Approved 6‑1 (Councilmember Joyner voting no); second reading waived.

Ordinances

  • O1 – $2,000 Supplemental Appropriation: For lighting for artwork in Riverfront Park (grant from Cape Fear Garden Club). Approved 7‑0; second reading waived.
  • O2 – $59,514 Supplemental Appropriation: From committed revenue funds for Live Oak Bank Pavilion and Riverfront Park improvements (mulching, repairs, mower, lighting). Approved 7‑0; second reading waived.
  • O3 – $26,500 for Police Training: Using drug tax revenue to send two senior police captains to specialized training. Approved 7‑0; second reading waived.

Resolution

  • R1 – C‑PACE Intent: Resolution declaring intent to participate in the Commercial Property Assessed Capital Expenditure program. Approved 5‑0.

Items Brought by Council Members: A motion to enter closed session to discuss a personnel matter (N.C. General Statute §143‑318.11(a)(6)) was approved 4‑0. After closed session, Council reported providing instructions to staff; no other action.

Key Outcomes

  • Consent Agenda: All seven items approved unanimously.
  • Unfit Dwellings: Two properties (333 Mercer Ave and 4040 Appleton Way) ordered to be repaired or demolished; 30‑day compliance window.
  • Special Use Permit (PH3): Approved with conditions including 9 AM weekday start for outdoor courts, sound‑reducing paddles, no outdoor tournaments, 800 membership cap, and public walkway access.
  • Zoning Amendments: All four rezoning requests (PH4, PH5, PH6, PH7) approved; final vote on PH7 was 6‑1.
  • Appropriations and Training: All three ordinances (O1, O2, O3) approved unanimously.
  • C‑PACE Resolution: Approved 5‑0.
  • Closed Session: Held for personnel matter; no final action reported beyond staff guidance.

Meeting Transcript

I'm going to call the meeting order of the Wilmington City Council. I'd like to welcome all those who are with us this evening and all those who are watching us at home. Thank you for taking an interest in your government. At this time, I want to call on Mayor Pro Tim Barnett. If you'll please rise, he's going to give us our invocation and Mary Stan afterwards for the Pledge of Allegiance. Let's pray. Eternal Father, as we gather tonight, we pause to thank you for your mercy. Thank you for your grace. Thank you as my mama would remind me that you still have the whole world in your hands. Now no, I know, I know. If it was in my hands, um, my hands are too weak, my hands fumble, my hands make mistakes, my hands drop stuff that I try to hold on to. But thank you, God, that we're still in the hollow of your hand. And so from that spot, help us to make great decisions. From that spot, help us to love each other more. From that spot, help us to reach our hands out to help each other. But we ask it all in his name. Amen. Pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. We have several presentations this evening. Our first presentation is I'd like to recognize Miss Evelyn Adger, who's the chair of the Commission on African American History, and Mr. Leron Montgomery, president of the North Carolina County County NAACP proclamation naming February 2025 as Black History Month. If they'll meet me up front, please. Whereas it is vital to acknowledge the importance of education, awareness, and the preservation of history to continue fostering mutual respect, understanding, and inclusivity among all people, regardless of race, background, or heritage. And whereas Black History Month serves as a reminder of the importance of continuing to break down barriers, challenges injustices, and uplifts the voices and experiences of African Americans in every community throughout this country. Now, therefore, I will say for Mayor of Wilmington, do hereby proclaim the month of February as Black History Month and call upon all citizens to reflect upon the history, culture, and contributions of African Americans to celebrate the accomplishments and enduring spirit of the black community and to continue striving toward equality and justice for all people. And I want to thank this committee for the outstanding work and the NAACP for the outstanding work that you do in our community day in and day out to reflect all of this that's in this proclamation tonight. So congratulations and thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Just I'd like to recognize Mark Bitteson, who's the chairman of the Southeastern North Carolina Veterans Day Parade. This presentation of thanks. Come on up, Mark. Want to come on up? Come on. When everybody to see you. Thank you, guys. I would. I would. Good evening, Mayor Sappho and Council members, uh, city staff, and I don't know whether Kayla Perkins is here. She's our contact with the city. I don't see her out there. And the members of the public. My name is Mark Biddison. This is Jim Ware. I have the honor of serving as one of the dedicated volunteers on the SENC Veterans Parade Committee. Some of my fellow committee members are here tonight, and on behalf of all of us, thank you for allowing us this opportunity to come and speak. In 2016, a small group of us came together with a shared goal to recognize and honor the service and sacrifice of local veterans. We believed a parade dedicated solely to them was the perfect way to show our gratitude. And so the SENC Veterans Parade was born. From the beginning, we established some guiding principles that still define our parade today.

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