By Mark Wineka
Salisbury Post
Wallace Commons LLC and Salisbury Boulevard Group have petitioned the city to annex their commercial subdivision at Klumac and Julian roads near Interstate 85.
Wallace Commons LLC is represented by Michael D. Smith, a partner with Collett & Associates of Charlotte, and Victor Wallace represents Salisbury Boulevard Group.
A proposed retail center on the site already has commitments from The Home Depot and Kohl’s for the first phase of development. Construction is expected to start in early 2008, with some stores opening by late next year.
The first phase will encompass about 30 acres and five outparcels along Klumac Road.
The clearing of trees and major grading already have started.
The city has been asked to annex 45.322 acres, which will represent the entire Wallace Commons when fully built.
Salisbury City Council received the petition last Tuesday. The next step is for City Clerk Myra Heard to investigate the sufficiency of the request.
At a second meeting, city staff will certify that statutory requirements have been met, and council will set a public hearing date. At the third meeting, council will hold the public hearing and vote on the annexation.
In another city matter, council approved a $13,825 budget amendment, reflecting insurance proceeds for repairs to a fire truck damaged in a wreck.
A Quint No. 3 fire truck incurred the damages, and the city received the funds from the other party’s insurance company.
Council heard a report Tuesday about the recent Holiday Family Fun Day held at the J.F. Hurley Family YMCA.
Close to 600 people attended the event, which featured activities for children and workshops for parents with information specific to gangs, parenting skills, conflict resolution and school assistance, for example.
A Family Day in August attracted about 1,000 people. Plans already are in the works for a third Family Day next April.
Sgt. Rory Collins of the Salisbury Police Department and Karen Carpenter of the Youth Services Bureau reported on the Family Day events through their roles with Project SAFE Neighborhoods. The United Way of Rowan served as sponsor for the event.
Mayor Susan Kluttz said young and old had a great time at the event, which has proved to be a good way of getting the city’s message out against gangs and youth violence.Contact Mark Wineka at 704-797-4263 or mwineka@salisburypost.com.