City of Greensboro Meeting Minutes - Final

City Council

-
Katie Dorsett Council Chamber
300 West Washington Street, Greensboro, NC 27401
Present:
  • Mayor Nancy Vaughan, 
  • Mayor Pro-Tem Yvonne Johnson, 
  • Councilmember Marikay Abuzuaiter, 
  • Councilmember Sharon Hightower, 
  • Councilmember Nancy Hoffmann, 
  • Councilmember Hugh Holston, 
  • Councilmember Zack Matheny, 
  • Councilmember Tammi Thurm, 
  • and and Councilmember Goldie Wells 
Also Present:
  • Deputy City Manager Chris Wilson, 
  • City Attorney Chuck Watts, 
  • and and City Clerk Angela Lord 

A.

  

These City Council minutes are a general account of the March 5, 2024 meeting.  For full details of discussions, the meeting video can be located on the City of Greensboro website at https://www.greensboro-nc.gov/government/city-council/council-meetings.

This City Council meeting of the City of Greensboro was called to order at 4:02 P.M. on the above date in the Katie Dorsett Council Chamber of the Melvin Municipal Office Building.

Mayor Vaughan confirmed all Councilmembers in attendance. Mayor Pro Tem Johnson participated via Zoom.

Moved by Councilmember Abuzuiater, seconded by Councilmember Holston to go into closed session to preserve the attorney-client privilege between the City’s Attorneys and the City Council regarding litigation involving the following parties: True Homes and D.R. Horton; Lee BHM Corp. d/b/a/ "Greensboro News & Record and the Guilford County District Attorney’s Office; E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company, et al.; to consider the qualifications, competence, performance, character, fitness, conditions of appointment, or conditions of initial employment of an individual public officer or employee or prospective public officer or employee; or to hear or investigate a complaint, charge, or grievance by or against an individual public officer or employee; and to preserve the attorney-client privilege between the City’s Attorneys and the City Council to preserve the attorney client privilege regarding NCDEQ’s possible regulation 1-4 dioxane discharge into the public waterways.  The motion carried by voice vote. 

Council Recessed to the closed session at 4:06 P.M.

Moved by Councilmember Abuzuaiter, seconded by Councilmember Matheny to return to open session.  The motion carried by voice vote.  Council reconvened to open session at 5:30 P.M. with all members present except Mayor Pro Tem Johnson.  

Moved by Councilmember Holston, seconded by Councilmember Matheny to excuse Mayor Pro-Tem Johnson from the meeting. The motion carried by voice vote.

B.

  

The meeting opened with a moment of silence.

C.

  

Mayor Vaughan recognized Northwest Guilford High Varsity Cheer team to lead the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.

Taking prerogative of the chair, Mayor Vaughan moved Item E.1. 2024-180 to be heard following the pledge.

Mayor Vaughan explained the Council procedure for conduct of the meeting.

Councilmember Matheny and Councilmember Thurm read the resolution into the record; and presented the resolution to Northwest Guilford Varsity Cheer Team and Staff. 

Motion to adopt the resolution was approved.

  • Moved ByCouncilmember Matheny
    Seconded ByCouncilmember Thurm
    Ayes (8)Mayor Vaughan, Councilmember Abuzuaiter, Councilmember Hightower, Councilmember Hoffmann, Councilmember Thurm, Councilmember Wells, Councilmember Holston, and Councilmember Matheny
    Absent (1)Mayor Pro-Tem Johnson
    Carried (8 to 0)

    064-24 RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE NORTHWEST GUILFORD VARSITY CHEER TEAM

    WHEREAS, cheerleading originated in the Unites States, where it has become a tradition; the activity involves participants cheering as a form of encouragement, entertainment, or for competition; routines performed contain a combination of components that take skill and versatility; 

    WHEREAS, cheerleading is a competitive sport; and winning competitions is more than executing flawless moves, and graceful touch toes; this sport takes immense commitment and a spirit of determination;

    WHEREAS, Northwest Guilford Cheer team has represented our State, winning the Carolina Cup in 2018 and 2021; continuously shown perseverance by winning State Championships for the last six consecutive years; demonstrating resilience, striving for excellence, and adding an invaluable contribution to the local sports landscape;

    WHEREAS, the Northwest Guilford Varsity Cheer team and Coaching staff set a significant   milestone for cheerleading not only in our local community, but Nationwide, having triumphed in the face of adversity and emerged champions of the 2024 National Cheerleading Association (NCA)  National Championship;

    WHEREAS, this moment is more than medals adorning their chests with standing ovations, it is the incredible journey of countless hours of practices, sacrifices, and showcasing teamwork; and  

    NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GREENSBORO:

    1.  That the City Council wishes to express a sense of joy in recognizing Northwest Guilford Varsity Cheer team on this incredible achievement and hard work.

    2.  That a copy of this resolution shall be delivered to the Northwest Guilford Varsity Cheer team and Coaching staff as a symbol of gratitude of the City of Greensboro for the success in the sports community.

    (Signed) Zack Matheny


Mayor Vaughan read the resolution into the record.

Motion to adopt the resolution was approved.

  • Moved ByMayor Vaughan
    Seconded ByCouncilmember Abuzuaiter
    Ayes (8)Mayor Vaughan, Councilmember Abuzuaiter, Councilmember Hightower, Councilmember Hoffmann, Councilmember Thurm, Councilmember Wells, Councilmember Holston, and Councilmember Matheny
    Absent (1)Mayor Pro-Tem Johnson
    Carried (8 to 0)

    065-24 RESOLUTION DECLARING THE WEEK OF MARCH 20 TO MARCH 26, 2024 AS NATIONAL SURVEYORS WEEK

    WHEREAS, National Surveyors Week was initially proclaimed by President Ronald Reagan on February 13, 1984; and is dedicated to recognizing and promoting the importance of the surveying profession in the United States; 

    WHEREAS, Surveying is the art and science of accurately determining the position of the points and distances between them; and is vitally important in the development of our city and country;

    WHEREAS, once defined by the description of land boundaries, surveying has expanded today to include hydrographic surveys, engineering surveys (infrastructure design), geodetic surveys (precise global positioning for navigation) and cartographic surveys (mapping and charting);

    WHEREAS, during the week, thousands of professional surveyors throughout the country will take part in local activities designed to introduce a new generation to the profession and highlight the use of technology in their day-to-day work;  

    WHEREAS, Surveying is important in building, transportation, communications, mapping, and in setting property boundaries; and throughout the years, the tools of surveying have become more high-tech and today include drones, lasers, remote sensing systems, and satellite imagery; 

    WHEREAS, the role of the surveyor has been, and will continue to be, an integral part in the development and advancement of the City of Greensboro;

    WHEREAS, The City of Greensboro recognizes surveyors as a force for positive change and appreciates all their contributions to our community; and

    NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GREENSBORO:

    That it hereby declares March 20 to March 26, 2024 as “National Surveyors Week” in the City of Greensboro and commend this observance to our citizens.

    (Signed)  Nancy Vaughan


There was no City Manager's report for this agenda. 

F.

  

Mayor Vaughan explained the order of speakers to address council.

The following residents spoke to The National Alliance on Mental Illness organization in Guilford County: Madonna Greer and Mary Welker.

Ben Holder made a video presentation; and voiced concerns about transparency.  

Phillip Marsh voiced concerns regarding the Washington Street area.

The following residents spoke to the Triad local First - Local Business Organization: Penny Schneck and Cheryl Pressly.

Bruce Raynor Jr. voiced concern regarding the Yard Waste program; and Leaf Collection. 

The following speakers voiced concern regarding the Poplar Ridge community; and Habitat Greensboro: Rosalyn Posey and Dede Porter. 

Councilmember Hightower requested staff to provide a timeline for Habitat Repairs.

The following speakers voiced concern regarding a ceasefire, Palestine, and Humanitarian efforts: Navena Attah, Duna Kassis, Yara Yousef, Juliana Gamm, Rhea Das, Fletcher Brooks, and Roman Raies.

Councilmember Matheny and Councilmember Abuzuaiter addressed residents' concerns.

Discussion took place regarding current events in the Middle East.

Bonnie Kays voiced concerns regarding construction from February 1 Place Park decking project. 

Councilmember Matheny requested staff to initiate action on the February 1 Parking Deck; and to provide a solution to open up E February 1 Place. 

The following speakers voiced concern regarding homelessness: Malique Hough and Toad of the Mountain.

Sydney Branch voiced concerns regarding City Manager Tai Jaiyeoba; the Greensboro Police Department; and budget allocations.  

Tony Hayes voiced concerns regarding Code Enforcement. 

Michael Tarpley voiced concerns regarding illegal business practices.  

Discussion took place regarding landlord and tenant actions. 

G.

  

Mayor Vaughan asked if anyone wished to remove any items from the consent agenda; and reminded Council that any items removed from the consent agenda, other than for a recusal or for the purpose to vote 'No' would be placed on the next business meeting agenda as a business item.

  • Moved ByCouncilmember Holston
    Seconded ByCouncilmember Hoffmann
    Ayes (8)Mayor Vaughan, Councilmember Abuzuaiter, Councilmember Hightower, Councilmember Hoffmann, Councilmember Thurm, Councilmember Wells, Councilmember Holston, and Councilmember Matheny
    Absent (1)Mayor Pro-Tem Johnson
    Carried (8 to 0)

Motion to adopt the resolution was approved.

  • 066-24 RESOLUTION ACCEPTING THE DONATION OF TWO ADAPTIVE MOUNTAIN BIKES FROM THE GREENSBORO PARKS FOUNDATION

    WHEREAS, the Greensboro Parks Foundation applied for funding through the Christopher and Dana Reeves Foundation for two accessible mountain bikes;

    WHEREAS, the donation is valued at $41,850 and the bikes have been delivered to Greensboro Parks and Recreation;

    WHEREAS, the bikes are the ATH-FS (Full Suspension) model manufactured by Lasher Sport, a firm that specializes in custom wheelchairs and sports equipment;

    WHEREAS, construction for the VF Adaptive Mountain Bike Trail at Keeley Park will begin in late March 2024 with funding awarded for the design and construction by the VF Foundation;

    WHEREAS, the trail will Greensboro’s first inclusive mountain bike trail designed to allow people with disabilities to access the physical, mental, and emotional benefits of mountain biking;

    WHEREAS, the bikes will provide the programming opportunities for usage at the newly constructed Adaptive Mountain Bike Trail at Keeley Park; and

    NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GREENSBORO:

    That the City of Greensboro Parks and Recreation is hereby authorized to accept the donation of two adaptive mountain bikes from the Greensboro Parks Foundation.

    (Signed) Hugh Holston


Motion to adopt the ordinance was approved.

  • 24-026 ORDINANCE AMENDING STATE, FEDERAL AND OTHER GRANTS FUND BUDGET FOR THE APPROPRIATION OF PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL COUNCIL AREA AGENCY ON AGING 2023-2024 GRANT AT TROTTER ACTIVE ADULT CENTER

    Section 1

    BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GREENSBORO:

    That the State, Federal, and Other Grants Fund Budget of the City of Greensboro is hereby amended as follows:

    That the appropriation to the State, Federal and other Grants Fund be increased as follows:

    Account name – FY 23/24 Senior Center General Purpose Grant – Trotter Center

    Account                              Description                                       Amount

    220-50-5098100.5235        Small Tools and Equipment               $3,957

    220-50-5098100.5221        Advertising                                         $1,000

    TOTAL:                                                                                         $4,957

    And, that this increase is financed by increasing the following State, Federal, and Other Grants Fund accounts:

    Account                              Description                                       Amount

     

    220-50-5098100.9101        Transfer from General Fund              $1,238

    220-50-5098100.7170        Local Government Grant                    $3,719

    TOTAL:                                                                                         $4,957 

    Section 2

    And, that this ordinance should become effective upon adoption.

    (Signed) Hugh Holston


Motion to adopt the ordinance was approved.

  • 24-027 ORDINANCE AMENDING STATE, FEDERAL AND OTHER GRANTS FUND BUDGET FOR THE APPROPRIATION OF PIEDMONT TRIAD REGIONAL COUNCIL AREA AGENCY ON AGING 2023-2024 GRANT AT SMITH ACTIVE ADULT CENTER

    Section 1

    BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GREENSBORO:

    That the State, Federal, and Other Grants Fund Budget of the City of Greensboro is hereby amended as follows:

    That the appropriation to the State, Federal and other Grants Fund be increased as follows:

    Account name – FY 23/24 Senior Center General Purpose Grant – Smith Center

    Account                              Description                                       Amount

    220-50-5098099.5235        Small Tools and Equipment             $13,791

    220-50-5098099.5221        Advertising                                         $1,000

    TOTAL:                                                                                       $14,791

    And, that this increase is financed by increasing the following State, Federal, and Other Grants Fund accounts:

    Account                              Description                                       Amount 

    220-50-5098099.9101        Transfer from General Fund              $3,698

    220-50-5098099.7170        Local Government Grant                  $11,093

    TOTAL:                                                                                       $14,791

    Section 2

    And, that this ordinance should become effective upon adoption.

    (Signed) Hugh Holston


Motion to adopt the resolution was approved.

  • 067-24 RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE CITY TAX COLLECTOR TO ADVERTISE LIENS ON REAL ESTATE FOR DELINQUENT PUBLIC UTILITY SERVICES, NUISANCE ABATEMENTS, BOARDING UP OF STRUCTURES AND DEMOLITION OF SUBSTANDARD STRUCTURES ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR 2023

    NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GREENSBORO:

    1. That the City Tax Collector be and is hereby directed to prepare and publish, in accordance with law, a list showing: (1) the names of all persons by whom substandard structure charges, water rents and nuisance abatement charges are due and (2) the amount of each such substandard structure charge, solid waste charge, water rent or nuisance abatement charge.  Such publication shall commence not earlier than March 21, 2024.
    2. That the City Tax Collector be and is hereby directed to cause the publication of the above-mentioned list in a local newspaper of general circulation in the City of Greensboro.
    3. That, in addition to following the foreclosure method prescribed by G.S. 105-374, the City Tax Collector be and is hereby authorized to institute the In rem method of foreclosure pursuant to G.S. 105-375.

    (Signed) Hugh Holston


Motion to adopt the resolution was approved.

  • 068-24 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE PURCHASE OF THE ENTIRE PROPERTY LOCATED 1199 PLEASANT RIDGE RD FROM SMHM PROPERTIES LLC IN THE AMOUNT OF $550,000 FOR FUTURE FIRE STATION LOCATION

    WHEREAS, the entire properties owned by SMHM Properties LLC located at 1199 Pleasant Ridge rd. is required for a future fire station, said property being shown on the attached map;

    WHEREAS, SMHM Properties LLC have agreed for $550,000 payment for the land with a closing date of March 22,2024.  It is deemed in the best interest of the City to purchase said property; and

    NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GREENSBORO:

    That the City Manager is authorized to enter into agreement with SMHM Properties LLC for the aforementioned property in the amount of $550,000

    (Signed) Hugh Holston


Motion to adopt the ordinance was approved.

  • 24-028 ORDINANCE AMENDING THE FY 2023-24 FEDERAL, STATE, AND OTHER GRANTS FUND BUDGET IN THE AMOUNT OF $94,000 FOR THE APPROPRIATION OF THE URBAN SEARCH AND RESCUE TEAM PROGRAM GRANT

    BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GREENSBORO:

    That the Federal, State, and Other Grants Fund of the City of Greensboro is hereby amended as follows:

    Section 1

    That the appropriation to the Federal, State, and Other Grants Fund be increased as follows:

    Account                                  Description                                                                  Amount

    220-40-4098084.5239             Miscellaneous Supplies                                              $ 32,000

    220-40-4098084.5520             Seminar/Training Expenses                                        $ 32,000

    220-40-4098084.5621             Maintenance & Repair - Equipment                           $ 30,000

    Total                                                                                                                            $ 94,000

    And, that this increase be financed by increasing the following revenue account:

    Account                                  Description                                                                  Amount

    220-40-4098084.7110            State Grant                                                                $ 94,000

    Section 2

    And, that this ordinance should become effective upon adoption.

    (Signed) Hugh Holston


Motion to adopt the ordinance was approved.

  • 24-029 ORDINANCE AMENDING THE FY 2023-24 FEDERAL, STATE, AND OTHER GRANTS FUND BUDGET IN THE AMOUNT OF $8,000 FOR THE APPROPRIATION OF THE COLONIAL PIPELINE TRAINING GRANT

    BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GREENSBORO:

    That the Federal, State, and Other Grants Fund of the City of Greensboro is hereby amended as follows:

    Section 1

    That the appropriation to the Federal, State, and Other Grants Fund be increased as follows:

    Account                                  Description                                                                  Amount

    220-40-4098085.5520             Seminar/Training Expenses                                        $   8,000

    And, that this increase be financed by increasing the following revenue account:

    Account                                  Description                                                                  Amount

    220-40-4098085.8620             Donations & Private Contributions                            $   8,000

    Section 2

    And, that this ordinance should become effective upon adoption.

    (Signed) Hugh Holston

     


Motion to adopt the ordinance was approved.

  • 24-030 ORDINANCE AMENDING STATE, FEDERAL AND OTHER GRANTS FUND BUDGET IN THE AMOUNT OF $825,000 FOR THE APPROPRIATION OF USDA FOREST SERVICE URBAN AND COMMUNITY FORESTRY INFLATION REDUCTION ACT GRANT PROGRAM  

    BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GREENSBORO:

    That the State, Federal, and Other Grants Fund Budget of the City of Greensboro is hereby amended as follows:

    Section 1

    That the appropriation to the State, Federal and Other Grants Fund be increased as follows:

    Account                                  Description                                                      Amount

    220-02-0298806.5211             Postage                                                                   $300

    220-02-0298806.5212             Computer Software                                            $1,500

    220-02-0298806.5221             Advertising                                                       $12,000

    220-02-0298806.5237             Program Supplies                                            $120,500

    220-02-0298806.5413             Consultant Services                                         $330,000

    220-02-0298806.5431             In-House Printing Services                                 $5,000

    220-02-0298806.5931             Contrib to Nongovmntal Agencies                 $350,000

    220-02-0298806.5949             Miscellaneous                                                      $5,700

    Total                                                                                                                $825,000

    And, that this increase be financed by increasing the following State, Federal, Other Grant Fund accounts:

    Account                                  Description                                                      Amount

    220-02-0298806.7100             Federal Grant                                                  $825,000

    Section 2

    And, that this ordinance should become effective upon adoption.

    (Signed) Hugh Holston


Motion to adopt the resolution was approved.

  • 069-24 RESOLUTION LISTING LOANS AND GRANTS FOR CITY COUNCIL APPROVAL

    WHEREAS, at the December 21, 2021 meeting of City Council, the City Manager was instructed to include on the regular Council Consent Agenda all loans and grants in excess of $50,000;

    WHEREAS,  City Council approval is required for all loans and grants, or pass through loans or grants in excess of $50,000 on the recommendation of agencies, non-profits, or other organizations acting on behalf of the City prior to the disbursement of funds;

    WHEREAS, requests have been made for loans or grants in excess of $50,000, said requests are presented herewith this day; and

    NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GREENSBORO:

    That the requests for loans of grants in excess of $50,000 presented herewith this day are hereby approved in accordance with the guidelines set at the December 21, 2021 Council meeting and the City Manager is authorized to execute agreements.

    (Signed) Hugh Holston


Motion to adopt the budget adjustments requiring Council approval 2/13/24 - 2/26/24 over the amount of $50,000 was approved.

(A copy of the Report is filed in Exhibit Drawer G, No. 9, which is hereby referred to and made a part of these minutes.)

Motion to adopt the budget adjustments accepted by the Budget Officer 2/13/24-2/26/24 was approved.

(A copy of the Report is filed in Exhibit Drawer G, No. 9, which is hereby referred to and made a part of these minutes.)

 

H.

  

There were no public hearing items for this agenda.

Mayor Vaughan declared recess at 7:23 P.M. 

Council reconvened at 7:42 P.M. with all members present except Mayor Pro-Tem Johnson.

I.

  

Discussion took place regarding Global Spectrum, LP dba OVG360 contract; and employee concerns.

Mayor Pro Tem Johnson rejoined the meeting at 7:45 P.M.

Crystal Burton voiced concern for the Coliseum; employee loss of benefits; and employee transitions. 

Councilmember Matheny and Councilmember Hightower requested staff to provide a twelve month structure to assist employees in reaching milestones; and to provide training and development to transitioning employees.

Motion to adopt the resolution was approved.

  • Moved ByCouncilmember Matheny
    Seconded ByCouncilmember Hoffmann
    Ayes (9)Mayor Vaughan, Councilmember Abuzuaiter, Councilmember Hightower, Councilmember Hoffmann, Councilmember Thurm, Councilmember Wells, Mayor Pro-Tem Johnson, Councilmember Holston, and Councilmember Matheny
    Carried (9 to 0)

    070-24 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE AWARD OF A CONTRACT TO GLOBAL SPECTRUM, LP DBA OVG360, FOR FACILITY MANAGEMENT AND BOOKING SERVICES FOR THE CITY OF GREENSBORO AT THE GREENSBORO COLISEUM COMPLEX AND THE STEVEN TANGER CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

    WHEREAS, on November 13, 2023, Procurement Services Division conducted an open solicitation through the Greensboro E-Procurement System for facility management and booking services at the Greensboro Coliseum Complex and the Steven Tanger Center for the Performing Arts;

    WHEREAS, the contract has an initial term of seven (7) years with two five (5) year renewal options subject to negotiation;

    WHEREAS, a monthly management fee will be paid by the City, offset by a percentage of revenues from naming rights, sponsorships, suite sales, and other premium sources therefore requiring City Council approval;

    WHEREAS, the City of Greensboro can become a larger hub of recreation and entertainment activities for the community by utilizing facility management and booking services at the Greensboro Coliseum Complex and the Steven Tanger Center for the Performing Arts;  

    WHEREAS, Global Spectrum, LP dba OVG360 was selected as the qualified vendor, and the M/WBE office was involved in the process; and

    NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GREENSBORO:

    That the City Manager is authorized to enter into a contract with Global Spectrum, LP dba OVG360 for facility management and booking services.

    (Signed) Zack Matheny 


Motion to adopt the resolution was approved.

  • Moved ByCouncilmember Holston
    Seconded ByCouncilmember Thurm
    Ayes (9)Mayor Vaughan, Councilmember Abuzuaiter, Councilmember Hightower, Councilmember Hoffmann, Councilmember Thurm, Councilmember Wells, Mayor Pro-Tem Johnson, Councilmember Holston, and Councilmember Matheny
    Carried (9 to 0)

    071-24 RESOLUTION APPROVING CONTRACT #2023-005A IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,372,195 WITH BAR ROOFING AND MAINTENANCE, LLC FOR THE GREENSBORO SPORTSPLEX ROOF REPLACEMENT

    WHEREAS, the City Council is being requested to approve the award of the contract #2023-005A to BAR Roofing and Maintenance, LLC for Greensboro Sportsplex roof replacement for the Parks and Recreation Department;

    WHEREAS, the Greensboro Sportsplex located at 2400 Sixteenth St, Greensboro, NC has served as a hub of recreation for the Greensboro community for nearly two decades;

    WHEREAS, on January 3, 2023 City Council approved ARP funding for the roof replacement at the Greensboro Sportsplex and a new roofing system was designed using the ARP funding;

    WHEREAS, the Greensboro Sportsplex existing roof has far exceeded its life expectancy and the new roof will modernize the facility for the future of the Greensboro;

    WHEREAS, on November 14, 2023 Parks and Recreation Department held a bid opening for the roof replacement and three bids were received;

    WHEREAS, BAR Roofing and Maintenance, LLC was the lowest responsive bidder with a bid amount of $1,372,195;

    WHEREAS, BAR Roofing and Maintenance has committed to subcontract 10.41% of the work to a WBE firm to handle specific drainage issues;

    WHEREAS, it is recommended by the Parks and Recreation Department that City Council approve the award of this contract to BAR Roofing and Maintenance, LLC; and

    NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GREENSBORO:

    That the City is authorized to enter into a contract for $1,372,195 with BAR Roofing and Maintenance, LLC for Greensboro Sportsplex Roof Replacement.

    (Signed) Hugh Holston


The following speakers spoke regarding native plants: Sarah Flores, Robin Davis, Nicole Gaines, Eric Ireland and Jack Jezorek. 

 Discussion took place regarding native plants.

Councilmember Thurm requested staff to provide material to educate the community. 

Motion to adopt the resolution was approved.

  • Moved ByCouncilmember Abuzuaiter
    Seconded ByCouncilmember Thurm
    Ayes (9)Mayor Vaughan, Councilmember Abuzuaiter, Councilmember Hightower, Councilmember Hoffmann, Councilmember Thurm, Councilmember Wells, Mayor Pro-Tem Johnson, Councilmember Holston, and Councilmember Matheny
    Carried (9 to 0)

    072-24 RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING A POLICY TO PROMOTE THE USE OF NATIVE PLANTS AND THE ELIMINATION OF INVASIVE PLANTS AT CITY-OWNED AND MAINTAINED SITES AND FACILITIES

    WHEREAS, the City of Greensboro has the opportunity to preserve its historic natural heritage as well as promote sustainable landscapes by choosing native plants, i.e., plants native to the Southeastern United States;

    WHEREAS, native plants enhance the beauty of the landscape, maintain and restore biodiversity, support native pollinators, butterflies, birds, and other wildlife, protect local ecosystems, and environmental health;

    WHEREAS, native plants minimize maintenance costs, fertilizer applications, mowing, and irrigation;

    WHEREAS, native plants have historical and cultural value that preserve the City of Greensboro’s regional identity and definition of place;

    WHEREAS, the city’s use of native plants promotes public awareness and can be a catalyst for the increased use of native plants in private and commercial landscaping;

    WHEREAS, invasive plants disrupt the ecology of native natural ecosystems, and displace native plant and animal species;

    WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council of the City of Greensboro do hereby resolve that, from the date of passage of this resolution, it shall be the policy of the City of Greensboro that when new or replacement plant materials are installed by the city, or by its contractors or subcontractors, in outdoor landscaped areas at any city-owned or -maintained site or facility, the following standards shall apply:

    • To the maximum extent practicable, the seeds and plants used shall be those classified by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and other appropriate regional resources as native to a state or county in the Southeastern United States, until a list specific to Guilford County can be adopted. Installation of new and replacement plant materials shall have a minimum native plant species composition of 50 percent by 2025.
    • This resolution shall apply in all instances, except where it is determined that installation of a native plant species would not be practicable, including but not limited to:
      1. Plantings deemed, and intended to be, edible, including fruit-bearing trees and plants, vegetables, nuts, and seeds;
      2. Non-native turf grass species used on athletic fields and lawns;
      3. Plant species required or prohibited by state or federal regulations;
      4. Plant species uniquely suited for soil or water remediation functions;
      5. Plant species uniquely suited for care and feeding of animals in zoological exhibits;
      6. Plant species used in botanical gardens for demonstration or educational purposes.

    In cases when the use of non-native plant species is determined to be appropriate, only drought-tolerant, non-invasive plant species of a suitable type may be used.

    • No plant species identified as invasive in North Carolina by the North Carolina Native Plant Society and the North Carolina Invasive Plant Council shall be planted in outdoor areas of any city-owned or maintained site or facility. The City recognizes the negative impacts of invasive plants, and will continue its efforts to eradicate invasive plant species.
    • To the maximum extent practicable, all plantings shall conform with generally accepted “right plant – right place” principles, to avoid potential conflicts with utility lines, infrastructure, and public safety.
    • The City shall, through various means, educate the public about the importance of native plants and the negative impacts of invasive plants; and

    NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GREENSBORO:

    That this “Policy to Promote the Use of Native Plants and the Elimination of Invasive Plants” is hereby established.

    (Signed) Marikay Abuzuaiter 


Mayor Vaughan announced the resignation of City Manager Jaiyeoba effective immediately.

City Council accepted the resignation; and approved a three month severance package on a 5-4 vote with Mayor Vaughan, Hugh Holston, Tammi Thurm, and Zack Matheny voting 'No'.

Mayor Vaughan stated for the record "I'm not voting against the resignation I'm voting against the Servance package." 

Mayor Vaughan announced Deputy City Manager Chris Wilson would serve as Interim City Manager. 

  • Moved ByCouncilmember Hightower
    Seconded ByCouncilmember Wells
    Ayes (5)Councilmember Abuzuaiter, Councilmember Hightower, Councilmember Hoffmann, Councilmember Wells, and Mayor Pro-Tem Johnson
    Noes (4)Mayor Vaughan, Councilmember Thurm, Councilmember Holston, and Councilmember Matheny
    Carried (5 to 4)

There were no items for discussion by the Deputy City Manager.

There were no items for discussion by the Chief Deputy City Attorney Tony Baker.

M.

  

Moved by Councilmember Holston, seconded by Councilmember Wells, to adjourn the meeting. The motion carried by voice vote. 

The City Council Adjourned at 8:29 P.M.

Following the close of the meeting, Councilmember Hightower highlight a Greensboro Transit Director on the Cross Max launching event. 

 

__________________________                        ____________________________

Nancy Vaughan, Mayor                                      Destiny Stansberry, Assistant City Clerk

No Item Selected