Staff Report
SPENCER ó The Board of Aldermen voted for the third time to pass a resolution regarding replacement of the Yadkin River Bridge at their monthly meeting Tuesday night.
“This is the third time in a year and a half we’ve passed a resolution regarding the bridge replacement,” said Spencer Mayor Jody Everhart.
The Cabarrus-Rowan Transportation Advisory Committee asked municipalities to adopt the resolution in support of an application for funding.
“If nothing else, we’re consistent in wanting the bridge worked on,” agreed Alderman Nick Bishop.
Other business at the meeting included adopting the 2009/10 budget and setting a tax rate of 60 cents per $100 valuation, which is the same as the current rate.
“We’re trying to keep the services for our citizens as is, for as long as we can,” Everhart says.
The 60-cent tax will balance the budget, Town Manager Larry Smith said in his report. Dustin Wilson, Spencer land management director, reported the hiring of a new code enforcement officer and two new businesses. A health food store will be opening soon, and an Internet cafe will open in the Food Lion shopping center.
Lee Harlan, Red Cross Heroes Campaign director, addressed the board seeking funds for the campaign. The program asks fire departments for $150-$200 for firefighter training, assistance in getting messages to deployed soldiers and veteran support. Harlan addressed the board at the request of Fire Chief Jay Baker. Donations must be approved by the board.
The board also adopted a resolution proposed by the Cabarrus-Rowan Metropolitan Planning Organization asking municipalities in the MPO to help preserve funding for the widening of I-85 in Cabarrus County. The resolution will help keep the funds from being diverted to other projects.
Also approved was Rowan County’s Solid Waste Plan and the appointment of Marla Gobbel, Rodney Jester and Ashley Myers to the Community Appearance Commission.