The January 16th regular session of the Chatham County Board of Commissioners convened at 6:00 PM and after opening with the pledge of allegiance moved item 235011 from the consent to the regular agenda for the evening meeting. The amended agenda was approved unanimously and the floor opened to comment from the public and matters of business.
Betty Krause, President of the North Chatham area addressed the decline of global insect populations and her work surveying the presence of bumblebees in the county. She reported that in the process of photographing over 150 bees, she discovered that there are five different species currently living in the county including the four major species expected for the climate of the region. Ms. Krause informed the board that she had received negative feedback about the presence of bees in parks and emphasized the importance of native plants and the presence of pollinators on public land. She ended her time suggesting the board consult with local experts before taking any action that might harm the local bee population.
Following Ms. Krause, Commissioner Delaney then addressed 23501 and stated their opposition to rezoning of lots for development types that may not be currently permitted. A motion was then made to rezone parcels on behalf of Catalyst Capital Partners to allow for the creation of commercial residential space in Baldwin Township with an aim of increasing access to affordable housing. This motion carried unanimously and will hopefully see more affordable accommodations in Baldwin.
Presenters for and speakers opposing the construction of a water treatment facility on Seaforth Road both presented their views on the project. The facility is proposed as a solution to meet the long term needs of the surrounding community and is a partnership between multiple cities and private entities. Project planners emphasized that the treatment facility would retain a pleasant appearance and be non disruptive to the community. Potential neighbors such as John Chappo who presented in opposition, believe that the size and scope of the project is too large to not negatively impact the value of nearby homes and rural life quality of residents. Additionally a health and safety impact report needs completion to more accurately gauge viability. Pat Gallelli another neighbor to the proposed site, was concerned about the speed limit of the nearby roads in the event of construction, and proposed lowering it for public safety. All matters related to the water treatment plant were referred to the planning board and the hearing closed.
A special use permit from The Towers LLC for a telecommunications tower in Cape Fear Township was submitted to the Commission and referred to the planning board. John Hegley speaking for The Towers indicated that the new development would expand Verizon coverage in the area. The agreement with Verizon is in place pending the construction of the tower preventing a delay finding a service provider for the project. The Affordable Housing Trust Fund Award recommendations for 2023-2024 received approval. The program began in 2018 has funded housing projects for low income families and will continue you to work toward equitable housing solutions.
Commissioner Delaney reported a positive experience visiting the Lumbee tribe community event and suggested the council look for ways to honor indigenous residents in Chatham County. Delaney also reported a visit to the North Carolina Economic Forecast run by the North Carolina Chamber of Commerce. Other topics of concern presented during public comment to the Commission included suggestions of ending mail in ballots due to multiple residences allegedly getting more then a single ballot per person, hand counting of paper ballots, listing of no trespessing properties to assist hunters and oppositions to the late tax listing penalty.
Chatham County Board of Commissioners meet on the third Monday of the month.