Regular Meeting 4-8-24

The Town of Fletcher Council held its regular meeting on April 8, 2024, focusing on routine approvals, workforce management, and strategic planning for community infrastructure. The council began by unanimously approving the minutes from previous meetings, including the Agenda Review on March 4, the Regular Meeting on March 11, and the Pre-Budget Meeting on March 19. The body also approved the consent agenda, which included routine administrative items, without further discussion.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to reviewing a Payment Classification Study presented by David Hill of the Piedmont Triad Regional Council. The study indicated that the town’s workforce is "mature," with an average employment tenure of 8-10 years, yet over 40% of employees have been with the town for less than five years, resulting in salaries that are not yet advanced across pay grades. The study recommended adopting a salary administration philosophy, implementing market-based practices, and conducting periodic reviews every other year, along with creating a career ladder for specialist positions. The council approved moving forward with this plan, noting that final implementation is contingent upon future budget considerations.

Regarding community development and transportation, the council reviewed presentations on two distinct initiatives. Rebecca Robinson from Conserving Carolina presented grant opportunities for the Cane Creek Greenway Extension, specifically a "Connected Communities to State Trails Grant" due in May and a larger "Great Trail State Grant" due in September. The council agreed to pursue the May deadline grant and will revisit the September opportunity at a later date. Additionally, Jana Biancolli and Lee Stevens from the Henderson County Planning Department presented findings from a Transit Feasibility Study for Apple Country Public Transit. The study suggested phasing out Route 3, which had lower ridership and performance metrics, in favor of an express bus route to the Asheville Regional Airport during peak hours. The council discussed these findings, indicating they will likely be considered in upcoming budget discussions.

The council also approved a contract with Retail Strategies to assist with economic development efforts, specifically in identifying potential retail opportunities. This decision followed a continued discussion from prior meetings, with details previously presented to the body. The Town Manager reported ongoing legislative advocacy efforts, including working with state legislators to pursue funding for key projects and adding license plate readers to the town’s priorities, as requested by the police chief.

During public comment, Mr. Brandon Olson, representing the Fletcher Baseball Association, reported on a successful opening day for baseball season. He noted that the event raised over $900 in cash and food donations for the Calvary Food Pantry, describing it as a great success for the community. The council acknowledged this contribution as part of the broader community engagement efforts.

Looking ahead, the council outlined several immediate next steps and scheduled events. The town will conduct an annual spring litter sweep from April 13-27 and will review a map from Crown Castle regarding proposed small cell wireless locations, including a site near Windsor Forest. The council will continue to discuss the payment classification study and grant opportunities during upcoming budget sessions. Specific upcoming dates include an LGCCA meeting on April 16, a Shred/Pill Drop Event on April 20, an Agenda Review Meeting on May 6, a Budget Retreat Presentation on May 9, and the next Regular Meeting on May 13.