Saturday, May 30, 2009

TSF 6/7: Back to the Future!

During the Depression, one country had:

- full employment and had to recruit foreign workers

- rents set at about 5% of a family's income

- free healthcare and education, from kindergarten to college

That country was the socialist USSR. 

Film showing and discussion of the significance of the USSR and the situation since its destruction, June 7th at 3pm at the Chapel Hill Public Library, sponsored by the Triangle Socialist Forum and US Friends of the Soviet People (see www.northstarcompass.org/usfsp/index.htm, but recent materials are not online).

Monday, May 25, 2009

BOCC meeting Tuesday

US Memorial Day is a County holiday, so the next BOCC meeting will be tomorrow evening.  The agenda includes some recognitions, budget items, a hearing on using stimulus money for transportation, and a report on H1N1 or swine flu.  The first cases appeared in Durham in the last few days, and before that I think the only NC cases were far from here. 
 
 

           [Please contact the Clerk to the Board at (919) 560-0025 for information related to items on the agenda.]

 

THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

DURHAM, NORTH CAROLINA

 

Monday, May 26, 2009

 

County Commissioners' Chambers

200 East Main Street, Durham, North Carolina

 

AGENDA

 

"Public Charge"

 

The Board of Commissioners asks its members and citizens to conduct themselves in a respectful, courteous manner, both with the Board and fellow citizens.  At any time, should any member of the Board or any citizen fail to observe this public charge, the Chairman will ask the offending person to leave the meeting until that individual regains personal control.  Should decorum fail to be restored, the Chairman will recess the meeting until such time that a genuine commitment to the public charge is observed.

 

As a courtesy to others, please turn off cell phones during the meeting.

_________________________

 

7:00 P.M. Regular Session

 

1.     Opening of Regular Session—Pledge of Allegiance                                                                    5 min.

 

2.     Agenda Adjustments                                                                                                                   5 min.

 

3.     Announcements                                                                                                                          5 min.

 

On June 8, 2009, the Board of County Commissioners will conduct a public hearing to receive citizen input on the FY 2009-10 recommended budget.

 

4.     Minutes

                                                                                                                                                       5 min.

April 27, 2009 Regular Session

 

5.     Recognition of Acts of Heroism by Durham County Paramedics

                                                                                                                                                       5 min.

Several Durham County EMS employees are being recognized for outstanding efforts during a tragic structure fire on Russell Road in northern Durham County.  Chief Len Needham, Bahama Fire Department, contacted County Manager Michael Ruffin to detail the acts of professionalism that were displayed by the paramedics on April 30 during their response to the call.

 

Paramedics arrived to find the house fully involved and two victims outside suffering with severe burns all over their bodies.  He wrote, "All of the teams on Medic 2 and Medic 6 along with the EMS Supervisor and a new employee worked tirelessly to treat these patients and to give them every chance at life.  I know these patients are not what they see every day, but the skill levels of these Medics were like they treated these types of patients daily.  We are so lucky here in Durham to have great Medics like these to help our citizens when they are in need".

 

Special recognition will be presented to:

Donald Fonville

Karin Knight

Warren Swanson

Valerie Norton

Rodney Medlin

Chris Reagan

 

Resource Person(s): Len Needham, Chief, Bahama Fire Department, and Mike Smith, EMS Director

 

County Manager's Recommendation: Present certificates of recognition to the paramedic heroes, along with the sincere congratulations of the entire organization.

 

6.     Recognition of Willis P. Whichard, President of the Durham Library Foundation

                                                                                                                                                       5 min.

The Durham Library Foundation, carrying the mission to develop and encourage the long-term financial health and growth of the Library through annual gifts, endowment, and capital contributions, would like the Durham Board of County Commissioners to recognize Willis P. Whichard for his accomplishments during nine years of Foundation leadership.

 

Mr. Whichard has continuously demonstrated strong governance skills, public-speaking skills, ability, commitment, and professionalism when fulfilling his responsibilities to the Durham Library Foundation, including lending his expertise to securing fundraising resources. 

 

On Monday, May 18, the Durham Library Foundation unveiled the Willis P. Whichard Opportunity Award in Mr. Whichard's honor. 

 

Resource Person(s): Skip Auld, Director of the Durham County Library, or Alice Sharpe, Development Officer, Durham County Library

 

County Manager's Recommendation: The Manager's recommendation is that the Board recognize the outstanding leadership provided by Willis P. Whichard for nearly a decade. 

 

7.    Presentation of the Commissioners Community Circle Award

                                                                                                                                                       5 min.

The Commissioners Community Circle Award, created by Michael D. Page, 2009 Chairman of the Durham Board of County Commissioners (BOCC), is designed as a way to recognize County departments, local nonprofit organizations, and programs for the extraordinary services they provide to Durham's citizens. 

 

The Durham City-County CrimeStoppers Inc., designed to bring together the public, media, and law enforcement in the fight against crime, will be awarded the Commissioners Community Circle Award due to their innovative approaches to solve the mystery of crime and increasing the safety and security of Durham's citizens since 1983.  The Durham City-County CrimeStoppers Inc. is well known for its commitment to enabling citizens who may not come forth with information regarding a crime because of fear of involvement, to do so with full anonymity.  The BOCC salutes the Durham City-County CrimeStoppers Inc. for its efforts and role in protecting the welfare of Durham County citizens.

 

Resource Person(s): Michael D. Page, Chairman of the Durham Board of County Commissioners

 

County Manager's Recommendation: The Manager's recommendation is that the Board congratulate Durham City-County CrimeStoppers Inc. for its receipt of the Commissioners Community Circle Award. 

 

8.     FY2009-2010 Recommended Budget

                                                                                                                                                     30 min.

Durham County Manager Michael M. Ruffin will formally present the Recommended Budget for FY2009-2010 to the Board of County Commissioners.  This is in accordance with N.C.G.S. 159-12 of The Local Government Budget & Fiscal Control Act.

 

Resource Person(s): County Manager Michael M. Ruffin

 

County Manager's Recommendation: The Manager recommends that the Board receive the presentation of the FY2009-2010 Recommended Budget.

 

9.     Consent Agenda

                                                                                                                                                     15 min.

a.    Property Tax Releases and Refunds for Fiscal Year 2008-2009 (accept the property tax release and refund report for April 2009 as presented and authorize the Tax Assessor to adjust the tax records as outlined by the report);

b.   Approval of the County Tax Administration Records Retention and Disposition Schedule (accept the Schedule issued by the North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources as presented and authorize the Tax Assessor to destroy non-permanent tax records after their respective retention periods in accordance with Chapter 1221 and 132 of the North Carolina General Statutes);

c.    Budget Ordinance Amendment No. 09BCC000068—Tax Administration—Turner Business Appraisers Contract Amendment in the amount of $180,000;

d.   Budget Ordinance Amendment 09BCC000069—Social Services—Recognizing Additional Revenue in the amount of $3,075 for Progress Energy, Energy Neighbor Fund;

e.    Budget Ordinance Amendment No. 09BCC000070—Transfer the Remaining Wireless Fund Balance to the City of Durham from the Emergency Services Special Revenue Fund (911 Surcharge);

f.    Budget Ordinance Amendment No. 09BCC000071—Tax Administration—County Tax Service Inc. Contract Amendment (approve in the amount of $75,000);

g.   Budget Ordinance Amendment No. 09BCC000072—Tax Administration—Evans & Associates Consulting Group Contract Amendment (approve in the amount of $10,000);

h.   Budget Ordinance Amendment No. 09BCC000073—Durham Public Library—Accept the Grant Funds of $29,250 from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to Purchase Computers for the Durham County Library System;

i.     Budget Ordinance Amendment No. 09BCC000074 and Capital Project Amendment
No. 09CPA000017—$189,677 Appropriation of General Fund Fund Balance (to be Reimbursed by a Federal Grant) to Increase the Lincoln Community Health Center Renovation (No.: DC095) from $50,000 to $239,677; funding for this project will come from a grant financing loan and any General Fund funds spent towards these projects will be reimbursed once grant funds are secured;

j.     Capital Project Amendment No. 09CPA000016—Appropriation of $88,572,996 (2009 Certificates of Participation, COPS) for Various Capital Projects;

k.   Encroachment Agreements with NCDOT at Creekside Elementary School (approve the two Right-of-Way Encroachment Agreements for Curb and Gutter, Widening, and Storm Drainage with NCDOT related to the Creekside Elementary School addition and authorize the Manager to execute the agreements);

l.     2008 Annual Report of the Durham Environmental Affairs Board (accept the report);

m. Approve the Stormwater Agreement for the Southwest Regional Library and authorize the Manager to Execute;

n.   Authorize the Submittal of a Street Closing Application for the Closing of Wisteria Avenue as a Public Street;

o.   Left blank intentionally;

p.   Civic Center Authority Appointments (approve the appointments);

q.   Cain Creek Acquisition Open Space Clean Water Management Trust Fund Grant Agreement (authorize the Manager to execute the Agreement and approve the conveyance of conservation easements to the State of North Carolina in accordance with the grant agreement once CWMTF funding for the project has been restored);

r.     Durham Public School Gym Addition at Lakeview School (that the Board [i] exempt itself from the requirements N.C.G.S. Chapter 143 Article 3D for the design services of FANNING/HOWEY Associates for work at Lakeview School; [ii] approve the Design Consultant contract with FANNING/HOWEY Associates for design work at Lakeview School in an amount not to exceed $154,950, and authorize the County Manager to execute the contract, and [iii] accept the deed to the school property);

s.    Southwest Regional Library Easement Dedications (approve the Final Plat to be recorded in the Durham County Register of Deeds Office); and

t.     Revised Durham City-County Inspections Department and Durham City-County Planning Department Fee Resolution FY 2009-2010.


10.   Public Hearing on American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 Grant Application Request

                                                                                                                                                     10 min.

The Cooperative Extension Service is requesting Board authorization to submit the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 grant to the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT).

 

The "American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, 2009" (Pub. L. 111-5; "ARRA"), signed into law by President Barack Obama on February 17, 2009, includes Federal funding for transit capital improvements, for which the intent of the legislation is to: a) preserve and create jobs and promote economic recovery; b) assist those affected negatively by the recession; c) provide investments needed to increase economic efficiency by spurring technological advances; d) invest in transportation infrastructure that will provide long-term economic benefits; and e) stabilize state and local government budgets to minimize reductions in essential services and counterproductive State and local tax increases.

 

The Community Transportation Program provides assistance to coordinate existing transportation programs operating in Durham County as well as provides transportation options and services for the communities within this service area.  These services are currently provided using vans.  Services are rendered by Durham County ACCESS.

 

The total estimated amount requested for the period $260,500

 

Project Capital

 

Total Amount

 

Federal Share

 

 

 

 

 

Replacement Vehicles

 

$120,600

 

$120,600 (100%)

 

 

 

 

 

Associated Capital

  

$1,500

 

$1,500 (100%)

Mobility Management

 

$ 138,400

 

$138,400 (100%)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL

  

$260,500

 

$260,500 (100%)

 

 

Total Funding Requests

 

Total Federal Share

 

Resource Person(s): Delphine Sellars, Cooperative Extension Service Director, and Johnny Ford, Transportation Access Coordinator

 

County Manager's Recommendation: The Manager recommends that the Board hold a public hearing on the grant submission, and if appropriate, approve the resolution authorizing Durham County Cooperative Extension to submit the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 Grant to the North Carolina Department of Transportation.

 

11.   Presentation: Update on Novel H1N1 Influenza

                                                                                                                                                     15 min.

The Board is requested to receive a presentation on the status of the novel H1N1 Influenza (swine flu) outbreak and community prevention and mitigation plans. 

 

In April, person-to-person transmission of this new influenza virus was detected in the United States after it caused illness and death in Mexico.  On April 26 after confirming 20 novel H1N1 flu cases in five states, the Department of Health and Human Services declared a public health emergency in the United States.  This declaration allowed resources to become available at the national, state, and local levels in order to focus on prevention and mitigation activities targeting this new virus.  This virus has affected most of the states in our country and more than 30 countries across the world.  The virus has caused mild symptoms in otherwise healthy individuals in the United States during this wave.  It is expected that another wave will occur during the regular flu season.  The virulence of the virus can change as subsequent waves of the pandemic occur.  It is anticipated that there will be greater morbidity and mortality associated with this virus.

 

The Health Department and many of its community partners are working together in order to be prepared to deliver novel H1N1 prevention and mitigation services in Durham County.

 

Resource Person(s): Gayle Harris, Health Director

 

County Manager's Recommendation: The County Manager recommends that the Board receive the presentation on the status of the novel H1N1 Influenza outbreak.

 

                                                                                                                                                            _____

                                                                                                                                                              hrs.

 
 
 

Sunday, May 17, 2009

City worker protest at Council meeting + EEUDO presentation

From the United Electrical public workers' union:  workerjustice at gmail dot com - 1-800-815-4946
 
"City of Durham:  Don't Balance the Budget on the Backs of City Workers!

As the banks and big corporations receive trillions in bailout money, governments are balancing budgets on workers' backs. Public workers are under attack! There is no fat left on services. Any cuts will be cuts to the bone.

The city manager, Tom Bonfield, recommends kicking 35 workers to the curb and eliminating their jobs, no pay for performance merit increases, longevity cuts, 2% cut to 401K contributions, and benefit cuts to part-time employees working less than 30 hours per week.

If cuts are necessary, then it should happen at the administrative levels only. Fire and police workers should be treated the same as other front-line city employees who provide essential services. Any stimulus money should be used for public jobs, not more privatization.

The city manager proposed that the City of Durham's Fund Balance, Rainy Day Fund, will not be used to balance the budget. "It will be maintained at 11%, but may increase using savings from FY2009". Well, HELLO. . . IT'S RAINING!!

In fact, it's a severe thunderstorm bordering on hurricane conditions for frontline workers! We are certainly being forced to go into our "rainy day funds" or savings, if we have them, to balance our household budgets or to keep from slipping two or three months behind in our bills.

We've had to pay for necessities for our family with high interest credit cards and yes, even from time to time, visit the dreaded cash advance/check cashing establishments. If workers' rainy day funds can get drained to 0%, why do the city administrators refuse to even consider lowering the city's below 11%? The pain should be shared!

The root of the budget problem faced by municipalities and the state is NC's outdated revenue systems. Proposals in the state legislature will increase the already huge tax breaks for corporations and the wealthy.

The only real chance that workers and the communities we serve have to stop the disasters we face is to organize, make our voices heard, and FIGHT BACK!

Come out to the Durham City Council Meeting on Monday, May 18th, 2009, 7:00 p.m. at 101 City Hall Plaza and let them see that Durham City Workers and the communities we serve are opposed to the budget being balanced on our backs!

Also, at 6:00 pm (right before the City Council meeting) Durham city workers will hold a City Worker Speak Out to talk about the important jobs we do. The Speak Out will take place at the Orange Street Mall next to City Hall. Please come out and support city workers and the work we do for our city!

The city works because we do!"
 
 
 
At the end of the agenda there are some items about floodplain fill near Rocky Creek and a rezoning request. 
 
Tuesday, 4:30-6:30, there will be an open house in the City Hall lobby on the Environmental Enhancements to the Unified Development Ordinance.    
 
The Mayor calls the meeting to order at 7:00 pm

Call To Order

Moment Of Silent Meditation

Pledge Of Allegiance

Roll Call

Ceremonial Items

Announcements By Council

Priority Items By The City Manager, City Attorney And City Clerk

[Consent Agenda]

1. Approval of City Council Minutes

To approve City Council minutes for the April 6, 2009 and April 20, 2009 City Council Meetings; and

To approve City Council action taken at the March 19, 2009 and April 9, 2009 City Council Work Sessions. (Resource Person: D. Ann Gray – 4166) (PR# 6104)

2. Equal Business Opportunity Program Advisory Committee - Receive and Accept an Application

To receive and accept an application for a citizen to fill one (1) vacancy on the Equal Business Opportunity Program Advisory Committee for a SDBE Construction Firm Owner with the term to expire on April 1, 2011.

(Due to the expired term of Joyce Tipton)

(Resource Person: LaVerne V. Brooks – 4166) (Attachment #2 - 4 pages) (PR# 6122)

3. Durham Area Transit Authority Board of Trustees - Receive and Accept an Application

To receive and accept an application for a citizen to fill one (1) vacancy for an Alternate Member on the Durham Area Transit Authority Board of Trustees with the term to expire on March 1, 2012.

(Resource Person: LaVerne V. Brooks – 4166) (Attachment #3 - 3 pages) (PR# 6127)

4. Capital Program Advisory Committee - Appointments

To appoint James Richard Haggie (representing PAC 1) and to reappoint Maryann B. Crea (representing PAC 2) to the Capital Program Advisory Committee with the terms to expire on March 31, 2011.

Note: At the Work Session on May 7, 2009, Mr. Haggie received 6 votes and Ms. Crea received 6 votes.

(Due to the expired terms of Maryann B. Crea and Thomas M. Poole)

(Resource Person: LaVerne V. Brooks – 4166) (Attachment #4 - 9 pages) (PR# 6132)

5. This item can be found on the General Business Agenda.

6. Bids - Four Rear Loading Refuse Collection Vehicles

To accept the bid from Amick Equipment Company, Inc. in the amount of $359,796.00 for providing the City with four Rear Loading Refuse Collection Bodies;

To authorize the City Manager to enter into a contract with Amick Equipment Company, Inc. in the amount of $359,796.00 for providing the City with four Rear Loading Refuse Collection Bodies;

To authorize the City Manager to modify the contract before execution provided that modifications do not increase the dollar amount of the contract and the modifications are consistent with the general intent of the existing version of the contract.

(Resource Persons: Joseph W. Clark and Paul Koch – 4132) (Attachment #6 - 5 pages) (PR# 6135)

7. Mortgage Loan Portfolio Quarterly Report, Third Quarter FY2009

To receive the Mortgage Loan Portfolio Quarterly Report, Third Quarter FY2009.

(Resource Person: Julie Quinn – 4570 ext. 248) (Attachment #7 - 6 pages) (PR# 6130)

8. Community Housing Development Organization (CHDO) Grant Agreement between the City of Durham and Builders of Hope, Inc.

To authorize the expenditure of $60,000.00 in HOME CHDO funds;

To authorize the City Manager to execute a CHDO Grant Agreement with Builders of Hope, Inc. in an amount of up to $60,000.00 in HOME CHDO funds;

To authorize the City Manager to execute a HOME Investment Partnership Agreement with Builders of Hope, Inc. in an amount of up to $60,000.00; and

To authorize the City Manager to modify the agreements and other related documents before execution provided that the modifications do not increase the dollar amount of the agreements and do not lessen the obligations of the contractor.

(Resource Person: Shepherd Smith – 4570 ext. 227) (Attachment #8 - 30 pages) (PR# 6136)

9. ARRA (American Recovery and Reinvestment Act) - City of Durham Employment and Training Grant Project Ordinance FY 2008-2010

To authorize the City Manager to accept the federal formula American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds from the State of North Carolina Division of Workforce Development by executing the grant documents; and

To adopt the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act "City of Durham Employment and Training" FY 2008-2010 Grant Project Ordinance in the amount of $1,317,711.00.

(Resource Person: Nicholas McCoy – 4965 ext. 15220) (Attachment #9 - 5 pages) (PR# 6147)

10. Proposed Sale of Property Located at 1212 Drew Street, Parcel #113250 and 1214 Drew Street, Parcel #113249 to Duke Energy Carolinas, LLC

To declare Parcel #113249 (City Tract #1155) and Parcel #113250 (City Tract #693) surplus;

To authorize the sale of Parcel # 113249 and Parcel #113250 by private sale to Duke Energy Carolinas, LLC under the authority of Section 86 of the City Charter;

To accept the offer of $15,700.00 from Duke Energy Corporation to purchase Parcel #113249 and Parcel # 113250; and

To authorize the City Manager to sell and the Mayor to convey to Duke Energy Corporation Parcel #113249 and Parcel # 113250 by non-warranty deed.

(Resource Person: Cecil Woods – 4197 ext. 251) (Attachment #10 - 6 pages) (PR# 6117)

11. Proposed Friendly Condemnation of Property of the Homeplace Townhomes Association, Inc. Parcel ID # 148306 – 324 Woodcroft Parkway (At Highgate Drive)

To find that it is necessary, in the public interest, and for the public use and benefit to condemn a fee simple in a 895.39 square foot portion of the property identified as Tax Map Parcel 148225 and owned by The Homeplace Townhomes Association, Inc., as shown on the map entitled, "Final Plat Showing Right-of-Way required for Woodcroft Parkway and Highgate Drive Roundabout" prepared by Durham Department of Public Works – Engineering Division, dated September 6, 2006 and recorded with the Durham County Register of Deeds at Plat Book 174, Page 135; and

To authorize the City Attorney to initiate condemnation proceedings for that purpose, with a deposit to the Clerk of Court's Office in the amount of $2,000.00 as the City's estimate of just compensation.

(Resource Person: David Fleischer – 4197 ext. 288) (Attachment #11 - 3 pages) (PR# 6137)

12. Tower License Agreement with T-Mobile South, LLC to Attach Cellular Antenna to Cole Mill Road Cell Tower – 1701 Cole Mill Road - Parcel ID #174121

To authorize the City Manager to execute the Tower License Agreement with T-Mobile to attach antennas to the cell tower and make related improvements at 1701 Cole Mill Road, Parcel ID #174121; and

To authorize the City Manager to make changes to the agreement provided such changes do not materially affect the intent and purpose of the agreement.

(Resource Person: David Fleischer – 4197 ext. 288) (Attachment #12 - 19 pages) (PR# 6138)

13. Proposed Acquisition of a Portion of 6519 S. Alston Ave., Parcel # 151271 for Cary Interconnection Projects – Installation of a 16-Inch Water Main and Booster Pump Station

To approve the acquisition of 1.06 acres in fee simple absolute that is a portion of 6519 S. Alston Avenue, Parcel 151271, for $226,000.00 from Triangle Brick Co., Inc. for the construction of a 16-inch water main interconnection and booster pump station.

(Resource Person: Jeannette Ramsay – 4197 ext. 248) (Attachment #13 - 3 pages) (PR# 6140)

14. Execution of Amendment 1 to Parking Systems Management Services Agreement with Lanier Parking Systems of NC, Inc.

To authorize the City Manager to negotiate and execute a contract amendment with Lanier Parking Systems (LPS) of North Carolina, Inc. for additional parking management services for a total amount not to exceed $3,835,506.67; and

To authorize the City Manager to make changes to the contract amendment before executing it if the changes do not increase the dollar amount of the contract and do not decrease the services provided.

(Resource Person: Harmon Crutchfield – 4197) (Attachment #14 - 11 pages) (PR# 6141)

15. Adding Interest Income from Invested Funds to the Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC) Project Budget

To authorize the City Manager to add the unscheduled interest income to the DPAC project budget increasing the DPAC total project budget from $46,870,000 to $47,067,449 and to move the remaining project balance to the DPAC Fund upon formal closeout of the project; and,

To adopt an ordinance amending the General Capital Improvement Project Ordinance, Fiscal year 2008-2009, the same being Ordinance #13632 for the purpose of recognizing $197,449 of unanticipated interest income earned from DPAC funding sources.

(Resource Person: Chris Krueger – 4197 ext. 245) (Attachment #15 - 4 pages) (PR# 6143)

16. Durham City-County Planning Commission 2008 Annual Report

To receive the Durham City-County Planning Commission 2008 Annual Report.

(Resource Person: George Brine, Chair – 4137 ext. 223) (Attachment #16 - 11 pages) (PR# 6115)

17. Annual Report – Design District Review Team

To receive the 2008 Annual Report of the Design District Review Team.

(Resource Person: Kevin Lilley, Chair – 4137 ext. 223) (Attachment #17 - 3 pages) (PR# 6124)

18. Annual Report – Durham City-County Appearance Commission

To receive the 2008 Annual Report of the Durham City-County Appearance Commission.

(Resource Person: John Compton, Chair – 4137 ext. 223) (Attachment #18 - 7 pages) (PR# 6125)

19. Revised Durham City-County Inspections and Durham City-County Planning Department Fee Resolution

To adopt an Ordinance to Change the Durham City-County Inspections and Durham City-County Planning Department fees; and

To adopt an Ordinance to Modify Chapter 10 of the City Code by changing the due date for Inspections fees under the charge account system.

(Resource Persons: William E. Bradham – 4144 and Steven L. Medlin, AICP – 4137) (Attachment #19 - 11 pages) (PR# 6139)

20. Renewal of Police Department Software Agreements with SunGard Public Safety, Inc.

To authorize the City Manager to execute the Software License and Services Agreement and Software Maintenance Agreement with SunGard Public Safety, Inc. for an amount not to exceed $83,777.00 in Fiscal Year 2008-2009; and

To authorize the City Manager to modify the agreement prior to execution provided the modifications do not increase the dollar amount of the agreement and the modifications are consistent with the general intent of the version of the agreement. (Resource Person: Randy Browning – 4304 ext. 29130) (Attachment #20 - 23 pages) (PR# 6126)

21. Contract for Reimbursement of Costs Incurred for Law Enforcement Assistance and Accompanying Grant Project Ordinance

To authority the City Manager to execute a contract with the Town of Chapel Hill for Reimbursement of Costs Incurred for Law Enforcement Assistance;

To authorize the City Manager to accept the City of Durham and Town of Chapel Hill for Temporary Law Enforcement Assistance During the 2009 NCAA Basketball Tournament grant by executing the grant documents; and

To adopt the City of Durham and Town of Chapel Hill for Temporary Law Enforcement Assistance During the 2009 NCAA Basketball Tournament Grant Project Ordinance, in the amount of $8,771.14.

(Resource Person: Charlene Balch – 4322) (Attachment #21 - 8 pages) (PR# 6129)

22. Authorization of Contract with Renaissance Planning Group, Inc. for a Transportation Study of NC 54/I-40 Corridor/Sub-Area

To authorize the City Manager to execute a contract for $257,432.59 with Renaissance Planning Group, Inc. for the transportation study of the NC 54/I-40 corridor/sub-area; and

To authorize the City Manager to modify the contract prior to execution provided the modifications do not increase the dollar amount of the agreement and the modifications are consistent with the general intent of the version of the agreement.

(Resource Person: Leta Huntsinger – 4366) (Attachment #22 - 29 pages) (PR# 6133)

23. Agreement for Engineering Services for Dam Regulatory Compliance Study

To authorize the City Manager to execute a contract with Hazen and Sawyer, P.C. for engineering services for the Dam Regulatory Compliance Study Project in the total amount not to exceed $409,900.00;

To authorize establishment of a contingency fund for the contract of $40,000.00;

To authorize the City Manager to negotiate change orders for the contract provided that the cost of all change orders does not exceed $40,000.00 and the total project cost does not exceed $449,900.00; and To authorize the City Manager to modify the initial contract and amendment before execution provided the modifications do not increase the dollar amount of the contract and amendment and are consistent with the general intent of the version of the contract approved by City Council.

(Resource Person: Thomas A. Bastable – 4381 ext. 255) (Attachment #23 - 41 pages) (PR# 6120)

24. Engineering Contract Amendment with Black and Veatch for Water Treatment Regulatory Compliance, Upgrade, Expansion and Improvement Project

To adopt a Resolution Exempting the Water Treatment Regulatory Compliance Project from G.S. 143-64.31;

To authorize the City Manager to negotiate and execute a contract amendment with Black and Veatch, Inc. for additional engineering services for the Water Treatment Regulatory Compliance, Upgrade, Expansion and Improvement Project for a total amount not to exceed $3,990,881.00; and

To authorized the establishment of a contingency fund for the contract of $399,088.00; and

To authorize the City Manager to negotiate change orders for the contract provided that the cost of all change orders does not exceed $399,088.00 and the total amendment cost does not exceed $4,389,969.00; and

To authorize the City Manager to modify the amendment before execution provided the modifications do not increase the dollar amount of the contract, as amended and are consistent with the general intent of the version of the contract approved by City Council.

(Resource Person: Nancy Newell – 4381) (Attachment #24 - 5 pages) (PR# 6134)

28. This item can be found on the General Business Agenda.

29 – 31. Those items can be found on the General Business Agenda – Public Hearing.

[General Business Agenda]

5. Durham Planning Commission - Appointment

To appoint a citizen to fill one (1) vacancy on the Durham Planning Commission to represent At-Large with the term expiring on June 30, 2012.

Note: At the Work Session on May 7, 2009, Frederick A. Davis received three (3) votes, Barbara Beechwood received two (2) votes and Colin Crossman received one (1) vote. Also, at the Joint City-County Planning Committee meeting on April l, 2009, Ms. Beechwood was recommended to fill this seat.

(Due to the term expiring of Corinne A. Mabry)

(Resource Person: LaVerne V. Brooks – 4166) (Attachment #5 - 8 pages) (PR# 6151)

28. Adoption of Proposed Water and Sewer Rates for FY 2009-2010

To adopt an Ordinance Amending Durham City Code Section 70-51- Monthly Rates for Water Service, Sewer Service, and Water and Sewer Service effective May 18, 2009 with rates applied to bills beginning in August of 2009.

(Resource Person: Vicki Westbrook – 4381 ext. 266) (Attachment #28 - 48 pages) (PR# 6144)

[General Business Agenda - Public Hearings]

Assessments and Improvements


29. Confirmation of Assessment Rolls

To conduct a public hearing and receive public comments; and

To adopt a resolution confirming each of the following assessment rolls:

Curb, Gutter and Paving on Wynn Road from NC Hwy 55 East to Railroad Right-of-Way;

Water and Sewer Laterals on Wynn Road from NC Hwy 55 East to Railroad Right-of-Way;

Street Opening, Curb, Gutter and Paving on Roane Street from end of pavement at the North Property Line of Tax Map 603-4-3 to North Property Line of Tax Map 603-4-1

Water and Sewer Laterals on Roane Street from end of pavement at the North Property Line of Tax Map 603-4-3 to North Property Line of Tax Map 603-4-1

Water Main on Roane Street from end of pavement at the North Property Line of Tax Map 603-4-3 to North Property Line of Tax Map 603-4-1.

(Resource Persons: Edward R. Venable and Nathan L. McHenry – 4326) (Attachment #29 - 13 pages) (PR# 6105)

30. Major Special Use Permit – Stewart Heights Apartment Building "TT" (M0800004)

To hold a quasi-judicial public hearing to consider a Major Special Use Permit for development within the 100-year floodplain floodway fringe; and

To direct the Planning Director to prepare an order for adoption, for 1) approval, 2) approval with conditions or 3) denial, or to continue the hearing to a specified later meeting. (A draft order for approval with staff recommended conditions will be available at the meeting)

(Resource Person: Steven L. Medlin, AICP – 4137 ext. 223) (Attachment #30 - 66 pages) (PR# 6075)

31. Initial Zoning Map Change – Alexander Village Initial (Z0800036A)

To conduct a public hearing and receive public comments on the initial zoning map change for Alexander Village Initial (Z0800036A); and

To adopt an ordinance amending the Unified Development Ordinance, to establish Commercial Center (CC) and Residential Rural (RR) zoning for the property described in the attached staff report; and

To adopt as support for its action on the proposed zoning map change the determinations that the action is not consistent with the Comprehensive Plan, but is reasonable and in the public interest given that this reflects the zoning of the property in the County and in light of information presented in the public hearing and in the accompanying agenda materials.

Staff Recommendation: Approval, based on annexation by the Council and the information contained in this report.

Planning Commission Recommendation: Approval, per the resolution adopted by the Commission on December 13, 2005 and attached to the staff report.

[The site is located on the north side of T.W. Alexander Drive and east of Page Road, PINs 0759-02-60-7163 (partial)]

(Resource Person: Steven L. Medlin, AICP – 4137 ext. 223) (Attachment #31 - 9 pages) (PR# 6113)

[Supplimental Items]

38. Proposed Fiscal Year 2009-2010 Budget and Fiscal Year 2010-2015 Capital Improvement Plan

To receive a presentation on the Proposed Fiscal Year 2009-2010 Budget and Fiscal Year 2010-2015 Capital Improvement Plan.

(Resource Person: Bertha T. Johnson – 4111 ext. 20285) (PR# 6210)

[Adjournment]

Saturday, May 16, 2009

238th anniversary of the defeat of the Regulators

Today is the 238th anniversary of the Battle of Alamance, which ended the War of the Regulation, in what was then western North Carolina.  In a rehearsal for the Revolution, farmers took up arms after their complaints about unscrupulous and abusive officials were not addressed.  The rebels were known as Regulators, and were routed by the colonial militia at Alamance.  There will be events at the Alamance Battleground this weekend.   

For more information, see www.nchistoricsites.org/alamance/alamanc.htm.

Friday, May 08, 2009

Haw River Festival, labor teach-in, and Mukasey protest this weekend

The Haw River Festival is this Saturday, 1-6pm in Bynum.  For more information see www.hawriver.org
 
Also:
 
Saturday, May 9, 2009
3:30-5:30 Chapel Hill Public Library, 100 Library Drive (off Estes Drive )

Teach In: Corporate Rule, Bailouts and Greed: Why We Need Unions

Join Women's International League for Peace and Freedom and other HKonJ allies for a teach in on the struggle for workers rights and the struggle to form unions against increasing corporate control of the workplace, political conversation and civic life.

Hear prophetic voices: NC State Prof. David Zonderman, noted labor historian and civil rights activist; Chris Chafe, Exec. Dir., Change to Win Labor Federation; Moncure Plywood workers, back from 8-month strike and settlement; N.C. public employees, in a fight for collective bargaining rights.

(Also on the panel will be Cat Warren, Past President of NC-AAUP, and Tim Stallman, a UNC alum.  They will speak about the changing power structure of universities and the impact of budget cuts on university workers, particularly in the absence of collective bargaining rights.)

Learn how you can become involved.
View fact sheet and flyer.
<http://www.hkonjoc.org/WILPF%20Union%20Teach-In%2020090509.pdf>
Contact WILPF, 919.370.4114, for more information.
 
MOTHERS TO PROTEST MUKASEY AT LAW SCHOOL GRADUATION
 
North Carolina Stop Torture Now invites mothers and their children of
all ages to protest the appearance of torture advocate and former
Attorney General Michael B. Mukasey, the featured speaker at the
University of North Carolina School of Law graduation ceremony, 3:30
p.m., Sunday, May 10 at the Dean Smith Center in Chapel Hill, NC.
 
After they failed to convince the school to withdraw the invitation to
Mukasey, a group of students in the graduating class asked the
grassroots, anti-torture group to organize an educational protest.
 
In 2008, as Attorney General, Mukasey ignored a request joined by
Representative David Price (NC - Fourth District) and 55 Congressional
representatives to investigate allegations of detainees tortured by the
Central Intelligence Agency.
 
Joining former CIA Director Michael Hayden, Mukasey wrote that
soldiers' guidelines for treatment of captives under U.S. control
detailed in the Army Field Manual are " ... not appropriate ... for more
experienced people in controlled circumstances with high-value
detainees. Indeed, the Army Field Manual was created with awareness that
there was an alternative protocol for high-value detainees." (April 17,
2009.  The Wall Street Journal. " The President Ties His Own Hands on
Terror")
 
"I believe that Mr. Mukasey failed to execute his responsibility as
Attorney General," Tamar Birckhead, Assistant Professor of Law at the
University of North Carolina, said, "His commitment to justice is
questionable and he ought not be honored by outstanding graduates, whom
we have every confidence will give honorable and selfless service to
their community and the legal profession."
 
North Carolina Stop Torture Now has worked since 2005 to expose and
end North Carolina's links to the U.S. torture program, with emphasis on
the role of Aero Contractors, Ltd., a company headquartered at the
Johnston County Airport that provides flight crews, aircraft maintenance
and other support for CIA counter-terror operations, which have included
the kidnap, disappearance and torture of men who were later released
without charges.
 
The group plans to distribute Mother's Day cards that read, in part:
 
     "Mom: Imagine your child were detained by police while traveling
abroad or kidnapped on his way to worship; handed over to the CIA,
beaten, stripped, photographed, drugged, hooded, and shackled to the
floor of a business jet; "disappeared" to a foreign prison -- while you
know nothing of his whereabouts  -- and denied access to the Red Cross,
a lawyer, or a judge; interrogated and tortured daily  ...
     Would you want justice?  Would you insist on accountability?   Of
course you would!  Whose Mom would do any less?"
 
Additional information: www.ncstoptorturenow.org