Town Council Workshop - Jul 13 2026

Town Council Workshop Recap: Addressing Budget, Development & Community Concerns (July 13, 2026)

On July 13, 2026, the Town Council held a comprehensive workshop meeting to tackle several critical issues facing our community. The session focused on adjusting the town budget in response to new state legislation, providing an update on the large Northridge Farms development project, and addressing ongoing concerns about parking and traffic flow in Merchant’s Alley. This recap summarizes the key discussions, decisions, and next steps for residents.

Navigating Budget Changes & Approving a Tax Adjustment

A significant portion of the meeting centered on adjusting the town’s budget for the upcoming fiscal year (2026-2027). Recent changes in state law (Senate Bills 889 and 447) have impacted how property values are assessed, requiring the town to revise its financial planning. After careful consideration and discussion, the Council unanimously approved an amended budget ordinance based on 2021 property values. This adjustment will result in a tax rate of 45.5 cents per $100 of assessed value, representing an increase from the current rate of 38 cents. This change is necessary to ensure the town can continue providing essential services despite these legislative shifts.

Northridge Farms Development: Addressing Road Ownership & Greenway Concerns

The Council received an update on the Northridge Farms development, a large residential project nearing completion of its initial construction phase. A key discussion point revolved around the future ownership of roads within the development and leading to it. Currently, the developer, Four Star Greenville/Ally Sebaugh, proposed private ownership; however, the Council is exploring transitioning these roads to public streets. Concerns were raised about long-term maintenance costs associated with taking over privately built infrastructure, prompting a deeper dive into these considerations.

Another important topic was the planned greenway connection within Northridge Farms, which requires access to public land. Discussions highlighted the need to ensure any greenway development doesn’t compromise the safety and functionality of the police department's firing range. The Council also discussed improving pedestrian access from the apartment area to the shopping center, potentially requiring a sidewalk along Northcrest Road. While no definitive decisions were made on these points, the Council directed Public Works to conduct a thorough inspection of the roads within Northridge Farms and will continue exploring options for road ownership, a roundabout feasibility study, and careful planning of the greenway connection.

Merchant’s Alley: Seeking Solutions to Parking & Traffic Challenges

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to addressing concerns raised by residents and business owners regarding parking congestion, cut-through traffic, and safety in Merchant’s Alley. Residents highlighted issues like unauthorized parking by therapy office clients, narrow alley width hindering emergency vehicle access, and truck traffic using the alley as a shortcut. Several potential solutions were discussed, including converting the alley to one-way traffic (South to North), designating loading zones with time limits, and clarifying parking signage. While no formal decisions were made during this portion of the meeting, a collaborative approach was emphasized, and staff will develop a site plan outlining proposed changes. The Council is likely to form a subcommittee or working group dedicated to finding a sustainable solution for Merchant’s Alley, and consideration will be given to educating employees regarding parking options.

Addressing Resident Concerns About Traffic Rerouting

Finally, the Council listened to residents express concerns about potential traffic rerouting onto Alabama Avenue if Florida Avenue is converted to one-way. Residents emphasized the existing truck traffic on Alabama Avenue and its importance as a safe route for community events like fireworks displays.

What’s Next?

The Council has outlined several key action items moving forward:

• Public Works will inspect the roads within Northridge Farms.
• The Council will continue discussions on road ownership and explore a roundabout feasibility study for Northridge Farms.
• Staff will develop a site plan for Merchant’s Alley improvements, including potential one-way traffic flow and loading zones.
• A subcommittee or working group will be formed to further explore solutions for Merchant’s Alley.

This workshop meeting demonstrated the Council's commitment to addressing important community concerns and navigating complex challenges. Residents can expect further updates on these issues as the Council continues its work in the coming weeks and months.