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City Council Meeting - Media
Published: Jul 20, 2026
Blacksville Community Drainage Improvements Move Towards Final Design After Study Completion
The City Council discussed improvements to the Blacksville Community Drainage system. JMT presented a drainage study that included existing conditions assessment, hydraulics, and preliminary engineering plans. A preferred alternative was selected, involving new storm drain infrastructure, a stormwater detention basin, sidewalks, roadway improvements, and an improved outfall. The project will implement closed drainage systems on several streets, replacing open ditches. The design aims to handle a 10-year storm event and reduce roadway flooding. Construction is estimated to begin a year from approval, with an estimated project cost of $1.9 million. The council also discussed the need for easements and potential funding for residents whose properties have been affected by historical infrastructure neglect. The project is currently at 60% design, and the council was asked for approval to move forward with final design.
Avalon Parkway Rezoning Deferred Pending Review of Existing C3 Conditions
The City Council considered a rezoning request for approximately 11.82 acres at 1500 Avalon Parkway from C2 (Central Commercial) with conditions to C3 (Highway Commercial) with conditions. The applicant, Synchrony Land Company, seeks to unify zoning across adjacent parcels, aligning the C2 property with the surrounding C3-zoned land. While no immediate development is planned, the change would facilitate future marketing for larger users. Council members raised concerns about increased traffic, the potential for undesirable uses like truck sales or excessive drive-throughs, and the lack of clarity on existing C3 conditional zoning. Due to these concerns, the council voted 7-0 to defer the decision to August 5th to allow for the circulation of relevant zoning condition details.
City Approves $23,180 Microwave System Extension for Hazelhurst Building Connectivity
Technology Services received approval to extend the microwave system to the underwater tower to connect the Hazelhurst Building for $23,180.50. The cost includes new microwave dishes, licenses, three access points, and installation by a certified climber. The council voted 7-0 to approve.
Council Debates Variances for Townhome Development on Cola Welch Parkway Amidst Architectural and Tree Canopy Concerns
The City Council heard a rezoning request for approximately 7.36 acres at 150 Cola Welch Parkway and Cedar Road from RM75 (multifamily residential) to RTD (Residential Townhouse District). The applicant, Olympic Realty, proposes 44 semi-detached townhomes with a density of 5.97 units per acre, exceeding the city's minimum open space requirements with 3.48 acres, a pocket park, and a community garden. Staff recommended approval of the rezoning and seven variances related to tree canopy, garage dimensions, setbacks, and architectural design, while not supporting variances for eliminating the tree survey, front facade requirements, or first-floor brick transition. The Planning Commission recommended approval with a condition limiting rental units to 10%. Council debated variances, particularly regarding setbacks and architectural materials, with some members expressing concern about reducing standards and the lack of specific architectural renderings from the builder.
City Achieves Unmodified Audit Opinion with Strong Financial Position; Long-Serving Auditor Retires
James L. Whitaker, managing owner of James L. Whitaker PC, presented the city's fiscal year 2024-2025 audit report, issuing an unmodified opinion that the city's financial statements are presented in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. The general fund reported total assets of $34,278,000 with a fund balance reserve of $31,190,000 (139.3%), significantly exceeding the recommended 20%. Governmental funds had total assets of $84,814,000. Revenues for the general fund were $24,914,000, and expenditures were $22,384,000 for the year, resulting in a net change in fund balance of $3,710,000. Long-term debt at year-end was approximately $14 million. Mr. Whitaker, who has served the city for 45 years, is retiring.
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