Assistant Town Manager Nicole Ard has accepted a position as city manager in Sandusky, Ohio. Her last day with the Town of Hillsborough was Friday, Dec. 16.
“Not only have we lost a key position in the town due to the reduction of force that took place in the fiscal year 2012 budget, we’ve also lost an excellent assistant town manager who provided amazing customer service to the citizens of Hillsborough,” Town Manager Eric Peterson said. “There is no doubt that Hillsborough’s loss will be Sandusky’s gain as they have just hired an exceptionally dedicated, fair and professional person to be their new city manager.”
A farewell reception in Ard’s honor was held Friday, Dec. 16, in the Town Barn.
“I have appreciated the opportunity to serve Historic Hillsborough, a great town manager and Town Board, and a fantastic, hard-working staff,” Ard said. “Their support—as well as support from community members, businesses and nonprofits—made Hillsborough a wonderful place to call home”
Ard, who also served as Hillsborough’s public works director, began working for the town in October 2007. She supervises the planning, utilities, public works, fire inspections and fleet maintenance operations. In addition, she serves as the acting manager in the town manager’s absence.
Her position was slated to be eliminated in January due to budget cuts for the current fiscal year, which started in July. The town’s Reduction in Force Policy allows employees in good standing to serve an additional six months if a position is eliminated.
Effective at 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 16, Public Works Supervisor Ken Hines began serving as interim Public Works director. Ard’s other supervisory duties will be reabsorbed by the town manager, with the exception of fire inspections, which will be supervised by the planning director.
Ard began work Tuesday, Dec. 27, in Sandusky, a Great Lakes port and tourism community of more than 25,000, with a population of 112,000 within a 15-mile radius. The city is located on the southern shore of Lake Erie, midway between Cleveland and Toledo. It has been ranked by Site Selection Magazine as the 25th best small town in the nation for corporate expansion activity and was on Fortune Magazine’s 2011 list of “100 Great Things about America” and Forbes’ 2011 list of affordable places to live.
“I am honored and excited to work with the City Commission, staff and community to help fulfill their goals and to continue to advance Sandusky, Ohio, as a great place to live, play and do business,” Ard said.
She will oversee Sandusky’s day-to-day city operations, including traditional municipal services; a utilities system; a 5-acre nursery and city greenhouse; more than 113 miles of city-owned and maintained streets; a nine-hole golf course; and more than 265 acres of parkland with waterfront parks, piers and a marina. There are 218 employees.
See what ended up on The News of Orange County's cutting room floor.
Showing posts with label town board. Show all posts
Showing posts with label town board. Show all posts
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Hillsborough to receive updates related to commercial solid waste service
The Hillsborough town board will receive an update Monday, Dec. 12 on information related to possible changes to the commercial solid waste service in town.
In early October, the commercial solid waste services provider—Waste Industries—asked the town to consider some proposals as alternatives to rate increases:
• The request to extend the current service agreement for an additional two-year period would continue the agreement through July 31, 2014. In exchange, Waste Industries would not request a Consumer Price Index adjustment through July 31, 2013.
• The other request to allow Waste Industries to use the transfer station it operates in Durham for solid waste disposal would require Hillsborough to exit an intergovernmental agreement that requires the town to use the Orange County Landfill. If approved, Waste Industries would rescind a 5-percent increase in rates that was approved in September. The rate adjustment was to help cover an increase in tipping fees at the county landfill.
At the Town Board’s 7 p.m. Monday meeting in the Town Barn, the board members will receive an update on what it will cost for the town to exit the intergovernmental solid waste agreement: $260,884. The amount is Hillsborough’s portion of the landfill system’s debt.
The commissioners also will receive results from a survey on the solid waste franchise. Eight businesses completed the survey intended to help town staff and business representatives review the current solid waste service and consider any change in 2012.
Under the franchise agreement, the town must provide notice of franchise renewal or discontinuation to Waste Industries in April—within 90 days of the agreement’s expiration.
Since 2004, the town has pursued commercial solid waste franchise agreements at the request of the business community to leverage better pricing and services as a community. Each business pays the franchise operator directly, with rates based on service level and frequency. All businesses—including multi-family complexes—churches and nonprofits are required to use the service provider.
The Town Barn is located on the Town Hall campus, 101 E. Orange St. Parking is accessed from East Corbin Street.
In early October, the commercial solid waste services provider—Waste Industries—asked the town to consider some proposals as alternatives to rate increases:
• The request to extend the current service agreement for an additional two-year period would continue the agreement through July 31, 2014. In exchange, Waste Industries would not request a Consumer Price Index adjustment through July 31, 2013.
• The other request to allow Waste Industries to use the transfer station it operates in Durham for solid waste disposal would require Hillsborough to exit an intergovernmental agreement that requires the town to use the Orange County Landfill. If approved, Waste Industries would rescind a 5-percent increase in rates that was approved in September. The rate adjustment was to help cover an increase in tipping fees at the county landfill.
At the Town Board’s 7 p.m. Monday meeting in the Town Barn, the board members will receive an update on what it will cost for the town to exit the intergovernmental solid waste agreement: $260,884. The amount is Hillsborough’s portion of the landfill system’s debt.
The commissioners also will receive results from a survey on the solid waste franchise. Eight businesses completed the survey intended to help town staff and business representatives review the current solid waste service and consider any change in 2012.
Under the franchise agreement, the town must provide notice of franchise renewal or discontinuation to Waste Industries in April—within 90 days of the agreement’s expiration.
Since 2004, the town has pursued commercial solid waste franchise agreements at the request of the business community to leverage better pricing and services as a community. Each business pays the franchise operator directly, with rates based on service level and frequency. All businesses—including multi-family complexes—churches and nonprofits are required to use the service provider.
The Town Barn is located on the Town Hall campus, 101 E. Orange St. Parking is accessed from East Corbin Street.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Town to hold public hearing on food trucks Monday, Nov. 14
Hillsborough leaders want to hear the public’s thoughts on allowing mobile food vendors in the town limits.
The Hillsborough town board will hold a public hearing at 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 14, in the Town Barn as part of its regular monthly meeting. The board is considering a proposal that would create a permit process for mobile vendors who want to set up a fixed location or route in town.
The proposed ordinance makes no change to how mobile vendors are allowed at special events like Hog Day or Last Fridays, and the hearing is not required for the ordinance to be enacted.
Under the draft ordinance, the town could issue up to 10 active food vendor permits at any given time, with qualified applicants receiving permits on a first-come, first-served basis. Vendors would be allowed to operate from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on private property with written permission from the property owners. The property would have to be zoned for nonresidential uses and could not be located in the historic overlay zoning district—from the Eno River north to Corbin Street; from Nash Street east to Cameron Street; and from east of Cameron Street to the town limits in the area north of St. Mary’s Road.
Vendors would serve walk-up customers only and would not provide customer seating. Only one vendor at a time per parcel would be allowed unless vendors were participating in a special event that was separately permitted under event provisions.
“The Town of Hillsborough recognizes that the diversity of prepared food options can be enhanced by allowing mobile food vendors to serve prepared food within the city limits,” the draft ordinance states. “The Town further recognizes that mobile food vendors have the same responsibilities to their customers and the community as do food service establishments with fixed locations and should be required to abide by local permit and tax requirements in the same manner as facilities with fixed locations.”
The draft ordinance may be viewed here. The Town Barn is located on the Town Hall campus, 101 E. Orange St. Parking is accessed from E. Corbin Street.
The Hillsborough town board will hold a public hearing at 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 14, in the Town Barn as part of its regular monthly meeting. The board is considering a proposal that would create a permit process for mobile vendors who want to set up a fixed location or route in town.
The proposed ordinance makes no change to how mobile vendors are allowed at special events like Hog Day or Last Fridays, and the hearing is not required for the ordinance to be enacted.
Under the draft ordinance, the town could issue up to 10 active food vendor permits at any given time, with qualified applicants receiving permits on a first-come, first-served basis. Vendors would be allowed to operate from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on private property with written permission from the property owners. The property would have to be zoned for nonresidential uses and could not be located in the historic overlay zoning district—from the Eno River north to Corbin Street; from Nash Street east to Cameron Street; and from east of Cameron Street to the town limits in the area north of St. Mary’s Road.
Vendors would serve walk-up customers only and would not provide customer seating. Only one vendor at a time per parcel would be allowed unless vendors were participating in a special event that was separately permitted under event provisions.
“The Town of Hillsborough recognizes that the diversity of prepared food options can be enhanced by allowing mobile food vendors to serve prepared food within the city limits,” the draft ordinance states. “The Town further recognizes that mobile food vendors have the same responsibilities to their customers and the community as do food service establishments with fixed locations and should be required to abide by local permit and tax requirements in the same manner as facilities with fixed locations.”
The draft ordinance may be viewed here. The Town Barn is located on the Town Hall campus, 101 E. Orange St. Parking is accessed from E. Corbin Street.
Monday, October 10, 2011
Hillsborough to break ground on Wastewater Treatment Plant expansion
The Town of Hillsborough will officially break ground on the upgrade and expansion of the Hillsborough Wastewater Treatment Plant at 10:30 a.m. Oct. 11.
Mayor Tom Stevens will shovel the first dirt. Construction is expected to be completed in the spring of 2014. This first phase of construction, expected to cost $16.5 million, will bring much-needed upgrades to the plant, which was built in the mid-1970s. The upgrades by Choate Construction Company of Atlanta, Ga., include:
• New tertiary filters capable of removing nitrogen and phosphorous.
• New screenings (trash) removal system at the beginning of the treatment process.
• Installation of new clarifiers (settling basins).
• Upgrades to biological treatment basins.
• New solids treatment and handling facilities.
• New backup power generator.
• Updated plant security and controls.
The upgrade is being funded through the Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan program. The $18.9 million loan — which also will cover some design costs, construction administration, inspections and contingency funds — will result in annual payments of $1.2 million for 20 years, beginning in Fiscal Year 2015. These payments will result in an 8.8 percent annual increase in sewer rates over six years, beginning with this fiscal year, which started in July.
A second phase of construction will provide extra flow capacity to accommodate planned land uses and projected population growth. Due to stricter state limits, the current plant already has reached its treatment capacity.
Both phases of construction will provide the plant with the capabilities needed to meet new, stricter state limits on discharged water. These new rules — called Falls Lake Rules — will become effective in 2016 and are intended to protect and restore the water quality of Falls Lake, which is on the EPA’s list of impaired waters. Planning for the second phase will begin when the first phase of construction is complete. The start of construction for that phase will be determined by the town’s growth rate, with a likely start in seven to 12 years.
The Wastewater Treatment Plant is located at 355 Elizabeth Brady Road.
Mayor Tom Stevens will shovel the first dirt. Construction is expected to be completed in the spring of 2014. This first phase of construction, expected to cost $16.5 million, will bring much-needed upgrades to the plant, which was built in the mid-1970s. The upgrades by Choate Construction Company of Atlanta, Ga., include:
• New tertiary filters capable of removing nitrogen and phosphorous.
• New screenings (trash) removal system at the beginning of the treatment process.
• Installation of new clarifiers (settling basins).
• Upgrades to biological treatment basins.
• New solids treatment and handling facilities.
• New backup power generator.
• Updated plant security and controls.
The upgrade is being funded through the Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan program. The $18.9 million loan — which also will cover some design costs, construction administration, inspections and contingency funds — will result in annual payments of $1.2 million for 20 years, beginning in Fiscal Year 2015. These payments will result in an 8.8 percent annual increase in sewer rates over six years, beginning with this fiscal year, which started in July.
A second phase of construction will provide extra flow capacity to accommodate planned land uses and projected population growth. Due to stricter state limits, the current plant already has reached its treatment capacity.
Both phases of construction will provide the plant with the capabilities needed to meet new, stricter state limits on discharged water. These new rules — called Falls Lake Rules — will become effective in 2016 and are intended to protect and restore the water quality of Falls Lake, which is on the EPA’s list of impaired waters. Planning for the second phase will begin when the first phase of construction is complete. The start of construction for that phase will be determined by the town’s growth rate, with a likely start in seven to 12 years.
The Wastewater Treatment Plant is located at 355 Elizabeth Brady Road.
Hillsborough to consider rate increase, franchise extension for commercial solid waste service
The Hillsborough Board of Commissioners has been asked to consider a 5-percent rate increase for commercial solid waste services as well as a one-year extension on the franchise agreement.
The two requests are on the agenda for the board’s regular monthly meeting on Oct. 10 in the Town Barn, 101 E. Orange St. on the Town Hall campus.
Waste Industries—which provides solid waste and recycling services to businesses, churches, nonprofits and multi-family housing communities in town through a franchise agreement negotiated by the Town of Hillsborough—made the requests on Oct. 3.
Per the agreement, the town has 60 days to respond to the rate request or the rate becomes effective. Rate adjustments are limited to no more than 10 percent per year, according to the franchise. This is the first rate adjustment that Waste Industries has sought since the current franchise agreement started in August 2009. The franchise expires July 31. Under the agreement, two one-year extensions are allowed and the town must provide notice of franchise renewal or discontinuation within 90 days of the agreement’s expiration.
Waste Industries is seeking the rate adjustment based on a 6 percent increase in the consumer price index in January and a $5 per ton increase in the tipping fees at the Orange County Landfill. Effective in July, the tipping fees increased from $52 to $57 per ton. Waste Industries indicated that it has been absorbing increased costs for some time rather than raising customer rates.
Since 2004, the town has pursued commercial solid waste franchise agreements at the request of the business community to leverage better pricing and services as a community. Each business pays Waste Industries directly, with rates based on service level and frequency. All businesses are required to use the same service provider.
The town is in the process of issuing a survey to customers on the franchise. The survey seeks feedback on customer service and asks about future service needs and the willingness to pay rate adjustments. Results should be available by the end of October. To date, the town has not received any service complaints about Waste Industries.
For more information, contact Assistant Town Manager/Public Works Director Nicole Ard by e-mail or by phone at 732-1270 Ext. 77. Or contact Public Works Supervisor Ken Hines by e-mail or by phone at 732-1270 Ext. 78.
The two requests are on the agenda for the board’s regular monthly meeting on Oct. 10 in the Town Barn, 101 E. Orange St. on the Town Hall campus.
Waste Industries—which provides solid waste and recycling services to businesses, churches, nonprofits and multi-family housing communities in town through a franchise agreement negotiated by the Town of Hillsborough—made the requests on Oct. 3.
Per the agreement, the town has 60 days to respond to the rate request or the rate becomes effective. Rate adjustments are limited to no more than 10 percent per year, according to the franchise. This is the first rate adjustment that Waste Industries has sought since the current franchise agreement started in August 2009. The franchise expires July 31. Under the agreement, two one-year extensions are allowed and the town must provide notice of franchise renewal or discontinuation within 90 days of the agreement’s expiration.
Waste Industries is seeking the rate adjustment based on a 6 percent increase in the consumer price index in January and a $5 per ton increase in the tipping fees at the Orange County Landfill. Effective in July, the tipping fees increased from $52 to $57 per ton. Waste Industries indicated that it has been absorbing increased costs for some time rather than raising customer rates.
Since 2004, the town has pursued commercial solid waste franchise agreements at the request of the business community to leverage better pricing and services as a community. Each business pays Waste Industries directly, with rates based on service level and frequency. All businesses are required to use the same service provider.
The town is in the process of issuing a survey to customers on the franchise. The survey seeks feedback on customer service and asks about future service needs and the willingness to pay rate adjustments. Results should be available by the end of October. To date, the town has not received any service complaints about Waste Industries.
For more information, contact Assistant Town Manager/Public Works Director Nicole Ard by e-mail or by phone at 732-1270 Ext. 77. Or contact Public Works Supervisor Ken Hines by e-mail or by phone at 732-1270 Ext. 78.
Hillsborough seeking feedback on commercial solid waste service
The Town of Hillsborough needs businesses, churches and nonprofits to share information that will help town staff and business representatives review the current solid waste service and consider any change in 2012.
Refuse and recycling service currently is provided by a franchise with Waste Industries to businesses, churches and nonprofit groups within the town’s limits, including apartment and condominium complexes. The franchise expires July 31.
Businesses, churches and nonprofits are asked to take 10 minutes to answer basic questions in a survey about their current and future solid waste needs, any possible service rate increase and desired customer service response time. The information—which will be collected through Friday, Oct. 21—will be used to solicit interested firms. The goal is to renew the current franchise or award a new franchise in the spring.
The survey can be found online at www.surveymonkey.com/s/DTTZN9Q.
Those agencies that do not have Internet access may obtain a hard copy of the survey from the town. For a copy of the survey or for more information about the survey, contact Public Works Supervisor Ken Hines by email or by phone at 732-1270, ext. 78.
Since 2004, the Town of Hillsborough has pursued commercial solid waste franchise agreements at the request of the business community to leverage better pricing and services as a community. Each business pays the franchise provider directly, with rates based on service level and frequency. All businesses are required to use the same service provider.
Currently, Waste Industries is requesting a one-year extension on the franchise agreement and a 5-percent rate increase for solid waste services. Two one-year extensions are allowed under the franchise agreement, as well as a rate adjustment of up to 10 percent per year in response to the consumer price index.
Refuse and recycling service currently is provided by a franchise with Waste Industries to businesses, churches and nonprofit groups within the town’s limits, including apartment and condominium complexes. The franchise expires July 31.
Businesses, churches and nonprofits are asked to take 10 minutes to answer basic questions in a survey about their current and future solid waste needs, any possible service rate increase and desired customer service response time. The information—which will be collected through Friday, Oct. 21—will be used to solicit interested firms. The goal is to renew the current franchise or award a new franchise in the spring.
The survey can be found online at www.surveymonkey.com/s/DTTZN9Q.
Those agencies that do not have Internet access may obtain a hard copy of the survey from the town. For a copy of the survey or for more information about the survey, contact Public Works Supervisor Ken Hines by email or by phone at 732-1270, ext. 78.
Since 2004, the Town of Hillsborough has pursued commercial solid waste franchise agreements at the request of the business community to leverage better pricing and services as a community. Each business pays the franchise provider directly, with rates based on service level and frequency. All businesses are required to use the same service provider.
Currently, Waste Industries is requesting a one-year extension on the franchise agreement and a 5-percent rate increase for solid waste services. Two one-year extensions are allowed under the franchise agreement, as well as a rate adjustment of up to 10 percent per year in response to the consumer price index.
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Update on Nash Street sidewalk construction project
Construction is returning to Hillsborough’s Nash Street Sidewalk Project, which still is on track to be completed by this summer.
During the fall and winter, plans were revised and additional funding was approved by the Hillsborough Board of Commissioners to help address utility conflicts identified by the location and age of existing water/sewer lines. The revised plans include installation of new water and sewer pipes and additional stormwater improvements on Nash Street near King and Queen streets and Alma Avenue. Additional funds also were approved for construction inspection and engineering services. The estimated project cost is now $1.4 million.
When the utility and stormwater work is finished, S.T. Wooten Corp. will perform the remaining construction work, which includes establishing the form of the sidewalk, curb and gutter; preparing the sidewalk base; pouring concrete; and restoring driveway entrances, yards and the roadway.
HAYES, UNION, QUEEN, CORBIN & NASH STREETS
Residents near Hillsborough and Central elementary schools, Hayes Street and sections of Nash Street between Hayes Street and Revere Road have new sidewalk, pipes, catch basins and other devices. The contractor worked to install new water service tie-ins Feb. 19 in the area.
In about two to three weeks, work will be performed on the water main on Nash Street between Corbin Street and Revere Road. About 12 properties will have their water service interrupted while the work is completed. Affected properties will be notified in advance by the contractor. Town staff will conduct water quality testing during the water outage. Any resident with questions or concerns following the outage should contact the Hillsborough Water Treatment Plant at 732-3621.
In the next few weeks, a separate project will replace existing storm drainage near Hayes and Nash streets. A similar project was successful at the intersection of Hayes and Foust streets. Both projects will help collect flows from the Nash Street Sidewalk Project’s curb, gutter and other storm drainage improvements.
FAUCETTE MILL/U.S. 70
The trench work seen at the intersection of Short Street, Revere Road and U.S. 70 are the next sections of sidewalk, curb and gutter. The work at Short Street will build a new handicap ramp.
REVERE ROAD
Asphalt was applied in the trenches on Revere Road in preparation for the remaining concrete sidewalk to be constructed to Short Street. The asphalt work was expected to be completed by Feb. 19.
ALMA AVENUE & DAPHINE DRIVE
In addition to the utility and stormwater work under way, a separate project was conducted to grade and install new storm drain pipes at the intersection of Alma Avenue and Daphine Drive. The new improvements seem to have successfully stopped the flooding experienced for almost a decade in back yards on Nash, Alma and Daphine during severe rainstorms. The improvements also should help capture stormwater flows from the new curb, gutter and storm drain improvements on Nash Street and Revere Road.
ALLISON & CALVIN STREETS
Fencing adjacent to the new sidewalk on Allison Street is being investigated by the consulting engineer. Town and N.C. Department of Transportation staff also are evaluating the area of Nash and Calvin streets near the increasingly popular Hillsborough Station Center, which houses a mix of old and new businesses next to the historic Bellevue Mill. The town has received complaints of vehicles speeding, causing unsafe pedestrian crossing of the state-owned road. The current sidewalk plans include installation of a new crosswalk. However, review and contact with businesses may identify additional improvements. In the interim, motorists are reminded to please drive carefully in the area and obey posted speed limits.
Regarding another popular destination, the Town Board authorized staff on Feb. 14 to solicit proposals for design and research-related work for Riverwalk Phase II and the Calvin Street connection to Gold Park/Riverwalk Phase I. The effort will help plan for the next phase of this existing recreation and tourist destination. The town will seek grant funds to support Phase II of the Riverwalk project.
DRIVEWAYS
The contractor will work on one-half of a driveway entrance at a time. This provides access to half of the entrance while concrete cures on the other half. Property owners/occupants will receive notice of driveway work to help plan accordingly. Because the contractor may need time to connect the existing driveway and new concrete sidewalk, gravel will be added to driveway entrances to help drivers enter and exit. Affected occupants should contact Assistant Town Manager Nicole Ard or the consulting engineers if they have a problem accessing their driveways or if additional stone is needed.
QUESTIONS/CONTACTS
For information on the Nash Street Sidewalk Project, visit the town’s Web site to view an electronic version of the approved plans. The plans are divided into sections by street name. Locate a street on the guide to find the related plan sheet number.
If you have questions or concerns about the project, contact Assistant Town Manager Nicole Ard by e-mail at or phone at 732-1270 Ext. 77 or Public Works Supervisor Ken Hines by e-mail or phone at 732-1270 Ext. 78.
The project engineer is Bobby Downes with Summit Consulting Engineers. He may be contacted at 732-3883 or robert.downes@summit-engineer.com. If he is not available, ask for Engineer Mitch Connell.
During the fall and winter, plans were revised and additional funding was approved by the Hillsborough Board of Commissioners to help address utility conflicts identified by the location and age of existing water/sewer lines. The revised plans include installation of new water and sewer pipes and additional stormwater improvements on Nash Street near King and Queen streets and Alma Avenue. Additional funds also were approved for construction inspection and engineering services. The estimated project cost is now $1.4 million.
When the utility and stormwater work is finished, S.T. Wooten Corp. will perform the remaining construction work, which includes establishing the form of the sidewalk, curb and gutter; preparing the sidewalk base; pouring concrete; and restoring driveway entrances, yards and the roadway.
HAYES, UNION, QUEEN, CORBIN & NASH STREETS
Residents near Hillsborough and Central elementary schools, Hayes Street and sections of Nash Street between Hayes Street and Revere Road have new sidewalk, pipes, catch basins and other devices. The contractor worked to install new water service tie-ins Feb. 19 in the area.
In about two to three weeks, work will be performed on the water main on Nash Street between Corbin Street and Revere Road. About 12 properties will have their water service interrupted while the work is completed. Affected properties will be notified in advance by the contractor. Town staff will conduct water quality testing during the water outage. Any resident with questions or concerns following the outage should contact the Hillsborough Water Treatment Plant at 732-3621.
In the next few weeks, a separate project will replace existing storm drainage near Hayes and Nash streets. A similar project was successful at the intersection of Hayes and Foust streets. Both projects will help collect flows from the Nash Street Sidewalk Project’s curb, gutter and other storm drainage improvements.
FAUCETTE MILL/U.S. 70
The trench work seen at the intersection of Short Street, Revere Road and U.S. 70 are the next sections of sidewalk, curb and gutter. The work at Short Street will build a new handicap ramp.
REVERE ROAD
Asphalt was applied in the trenches on Revere Road in preparation for the remaining concrete sidewalk to be constructed to Short Street. The asphalt work was expected to be completed by Feb. 19.
ALMA AVENUE & DAPHINE DRIVE
In addition to the utility and stormwater work under way, a separate project was conducted to grade and install new storm drain pipes at the intersection of Alma Avenue and Daphine Drive. The new improvements seem to have successfully stopped the flooding experienced for almost a decade in back yards on Nash, Alma and Daphine during severe rainstorms. The improvements also should help capture stormwater flows from the new curb, gutter and storm drain improvements on Nash Street and Revere Road.
ALLISON & CALVIN STREETS
Fencing adjacent to the new sidewalk on Allison Street is being investigated by the consulting engineer. Town and N.C. Department of Transportation staff also are evaluating the area of Nash and Calvin streets near the increasingly popular Hillsborough Station Center, which houses a mix of old and new businesses next to the historic Bellevue Mill. The town has received complaints of vehicles speeding, causing unsafe pedestrian crossing of the state-owned road. The current sidewalk plans include installation of a new crosswalk. However, review and contact with businesses may identify additional improvements. In the interim, motorists are reminded to please drive carefully in the area and obey posted speed limits.
Regarding another popular destination, the Town Board authorized staff on Feb. 14 to solicit proposals for design and research-related work for Riverwalk Phase II and the Calvin Street connection to Gold Park/Riverwalk Phase I. The effort will help plan for the next phase of this existing recreation and tourist destination. The town will seek grant funds to support Phase II of the Riverwalk project.
DRIVEWAYS
The contractor will work on one-half of a driveway entrance at a time. This provides access to half of the entrance while concrete cures on the other half. Property owners/occupants will receive notice of driveway work to help plan accordingly. Because the contractor may need time to connect the existing driveway and new concrete sidewalk, gravel will be added to driveway entrances to help drivers enter and exit. Affected occupants should contact Assistant Town Manager Nicole Ard or the consulting engineers if they have a problem accessing their driveways or if additional stone is needed.
QUESTIONS/CONTACTS
For information on the Nash Street Sidewalk Project, visit the town’s Web site to view an electronic version of the approved plans. The plans are divided into sections by street name. Locate a street on the guide to find the related plan sheet number.
If you have questions or concerns about the project, contact Assistant Town Manager Nicole Ard by e-mail at or phone at 732-1270 Ext. 77 or Public Works Supervisor Ken Hines by e-mail or phone at 732-1270 Ext. 78.
The project engineer is Bobby Downes with Summit Consulting Engineers. He may be contacted at 732-3883 or robert.downes@summit-engineer.com. If he is not available, ask for Engineer Mitch Connell.
Friday, February 25, 2011
Town Board workshop Monday night
Hillsborough Town Board will hold its regular monthly workshop meeting Monday, Feb. 28, at 7 p.m. in the Town Barn after the State of the Town address.
Agenda includes:
Agenda includes:
- discussion on possible amendments to the Waterstone master plan;
- consideration of adoption of the Unified Development Ordinance;
- consideration of adoption of a resolution requesting a local bill authorizing Hillsborough to enact a 3 percent Accommodations Tax on hotel and motel lodging.
Hillsborough Mayor to give State of the Town address Monday
Hillsborough Mayor Tom Stevens will give a State of the Town address the evening of Feb. 28 at the Town Barn, on the Town Hall campus.
This fifth annual event is open to the public. From 6:30 to 7 p.m., citizens are invited to meet with the mayor, Board of Commissioners and staff to ask questions and talk about services, projects, issues or concerns. Mayor Stevens will deliver his address at 7 p.m.
“This year’s address will be modest in length, to the point and in the venue where elected officials, town staff and citizens get our work done together all year long,” Stevens said. “I’m sure I’ll see familiar faces, but I hope there will be people there who have never been to the Town Barn before. One of the main objectives on our town strategy map is to increase citizen involvement. This is a great chance to come to Town Hall and find out what’s going on in your community.”
Following the mayor’s address, the public is welcome to stay for the Town Board’s monthly workshop, beginning at 7:45 p.m. During the workshop, Stratford Land will provide an update to the board on its efforts to make adjustments to the Waterstone Master Plan. Waterstone is a mixed-use business park located adjacent to Interstate 40, between N.C. 86 and Old N.C. 86. It is anchored by Durham Technical Community College, and UNC will start construction later this year on a hospital on 80 acres.
“Each year when I take this time to reflect on where we’ve been and where we’re going, I’m astonished at how much is going on in our town,” the Mayor said.
The Town Barn is located at 101 E. Orange St. Parking is accessed from East Corbin Street.
This fifth annual event is open to the public. From 6:30 to 7 p.m., citizens are invited to meet with the mayor, Board of Commissioners and staff to ask questions and talk about services, projects, issues or concerns. Mayor Stevens will deliver his address at 7 p.m.
“This year’s address will be modest in length, to the point and in the venue where elected officials, town staff and citizens get our work done together all year long,” Stevens said. “I’m sure I’ll see familiar faces, but I hope there will be people there who have never been to the Town Barn before. One of the main objectives on our town strategy map is to increase citizen involvement. This is a great chance to come to Town Hall and find out what’s going on in your community.”
Following the mayor’s address, the public is welcome to stay for the Town Board’s monthly workshop, beginning at 7:45 p.m. During the workshop, Stratford Land will provide an update to the board on its efforts to make adjustments to the Waterstone Master Plan. Waterstone is a mixed-use business park located adjacent to Interstate 40, between N.C. 86 and Old N.C. 86. It is anchored by Durham Technical Community College, and UNC will start construction later this year on a hospital on 80 acres.
“Each year when I take this time to reflect on where we’ve been and where we’re going, I’m astonished at how much is going on in our town,” the Mayor said.
The Town Barn is located at 101 E. Orange St. Parking is accessed from East Corbin Street.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Joint county and town meeting tonight
Orange County Commissioners and the Hillsborough Town Board will hold a joint meeting tonight (Thursday, Feb. 24) from 7 to 10 p.m. at John M. Link Jr. Government Services Center, 200 S. Cameron St.
Agenda includes:
Agenda includes:
- discussion on the county's economic development activities;
- Hillsborough policy and plans for vacant buildings and county facilities;
- update on the rail station;
- discussion of a memorandum of agreement for a circulator transit route;
- Hillsborough Metropolitan Planning Organization issues related to I-85 and I-40,
- and an update on Riverwalk and the future of Fairview Park.
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Hillsborough goes green
The Hillsborough Town Board has gone paperless at meetings. Each commissioner has an iPad used to view agenda packets as opposed to printing the sometimes 500-page documents out for board members, staff and the press.
See further details in next week's issue, Wednesday, Feb. 23.
See further details in next week's issue, Wednesday, Feb. 23.
Friday, February 18, 2011
State of the Town address will be given Feb. 28
Hillsborough Mayor Tom Stevens will give a State of the Town address the evening of Feb. 28 at the Town Barn, on the Town Hall campus.
This fifth annual event is open to the public. From 6:30 to 7 p.m., citizens are invited to meet with the mayor, Board of Commissioners and staff to ask questions and talk about services, projects, issues or concerns. Mayor Stevens will deliver his address at 7 p.m.
“This year’s address will be modest in length, to the point and in the venue where elected officials, town staff and citizens get our work done together all year long,” Stevens said. “I’m sure I’ll see familiar faces, but I hope there will be people there who have never been to the Town Barn before. One of the main objectives on our town strategy map is to increase citizen involvement. This is a great chance to come to Town Hall and find out what’s going on in your community.”
Previous State of the Town addresses have been well attended. Following the mayor’s address, the public is welcome to stay for the Town Board’s monthly workshop, beginning at 7:45 p.m. During the workshop, Stratford Land will provide an update to the board on its efforts to make adjustments to the Waterstone Master Plan. Waterstone is a mixed-use business park located adjacent to Interstate 40, between N.C. 86 and Old N.C. 86. It is anchored by Durham Technical Community College, and UNC will start construction later this year on a hospital on 80 acres.
“Each year when I take this time to reflect on where we’ve been and where we’re going, I’m astonished at how much is going on in our town,” the mayor said.
The Town Barn is located at 101 E. Orange St. Parking is accessed from East Corbin Street.
This fifth annual event is open to the public. From 6:30 to 7 p.m., citizens are invited to meet with the mayor, Board of Commissioners and staff to ask questions and talk about services, projects, issues or concerns. Mayor Stevens will deliver his address at 7 p.m.
“This year’s address will be modest in length, to the point and in the venue where elected officials, town staff and citizens get our work done together all year long,” Stevens said. “I’m sure I’ll see familiar faces, but I hope there will be people there who have never been to the Town Barn before. One of the main objectives on our town strategy map is to increase citizen involvement. This is a great chance to come to Town Hall and find out what’s going on in your community.”
Previous State of the Town addresses have been well attended. Following the mayor’s address, the public is welcome to stay for the Town Board’s monthly workshop, beginning at 7:45 p.m. During the workshop, Stratford Land will provide an update to the board on its efforts to make adjustments to the Waterstone Master Plan. Waterstone is a mixed-use business park located adjacent to Interstate 40, between N.C. 86 and Old N.C. 86. It is anchored by Durham Technical Community College, and UNC will start construction later this year on a hospital on 80 acres.
“Each year when I take this time to reflect on where we’ve been and where we’re going, I’m astonished at how much is going on in our town,” the mayor said.
The Town Barn is located at 101 E. Orange St. Parking is accessed from East Corbin Street.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
The stop signs are coming down
The Town Board voted to approve an ordinance to remove three stop signs on Cameron Street on Feb. 10.
The stop signs are part of Hillsborough Police Department's traffic study on Cameron Street, inspired by traffic complaints in the neighborhood. The first phase consisted of three stop signs placed along Cameron Street, at Union, Caine and Orange Streets. HPD has been analyzing traffic flow with the stop signs in place as part of phase I and will take down the signs on Feb. 10. After allowing a month for locals to adjust, the HPD will analyze traffic flow without stop signs and compare the two scenarios.
What do you think?
The stop signs are part of Hillsborough Police Department's traffic study on Cameron Street, inspired by traffic complaints in the neighborhood. The first phase consisted of three stop signs placed along Cameron Street, at Union, Caine and Orange Streets. HPD has been analyzing traffic flow with the stop signs in place as part of phase I and will take down the signs on Feb. 10. After allowing a month for locals to adjust, the HPD will analyze traffic flow without stop signs and compare the two scenarios.
What do you think?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)