A PUBLICATION OF THE NC LEAGUE OF MUNICIPALITIES Southern City VOLUME 68, NO. 5 September/October 2018
NCLM President & Jacksonville Mayor Pro Tem Michael Lazzara Being a Unifier League Unveils Opioid Solutions Toolbox Citizen Academies Spark Involvement
BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2017-2018
Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 | 1 contents 6
5 Amazon Chooses Garner for New Facility Here We Grow feature story
21 Durham, Winston- Salem Selected for NLC Hunger Fighting Effort NC cities among six selected nationally
30 Regional Roundtable 6 Being a Unifier Discussions Mayor Pro Tem Lazzara has penchant for bringing people, ideas together Foster Dialogue on Population 11 CityVision 2018: Crafting A Future in Hickory Challenges City’s past, present an attractive combination Grassroots staff hits the road 16 Citizens Academies Surprise Residents, Spark 36 North Carolina Cities Involvement in Partnerships to Gastonia engages its residents Educate and Protect Homeowners 18 League Offers Response-to-Resistance Simulator Preferred Partners Spotlight to Assist Law Enforcement feature story Safety is the goal
37 NLC, Schmidt 22 League Unveils Opioid Solutions Toolbox Futures to Support Connecting you to available resources City Innovation Ecosystems 26 Sen. Jay Chaudhuri Success is diversity of thought Program seeks to grow entrepreneurship 32 Everything Under the Sun Beach town governments see, do it all to make it work
2 | Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 INSIDE
1 Board of Directors Southern City is a publication for and about North Carolina municipalities, 4 Speaking Out: A Year of Accomplishment published bimonthly by the North Carolina League of Municipalities 14 Advocacy Angle: Advocacy Goals Conference is Around in partnership with Innovative the Corner Publishing, a national publisher 20 Risk Management Services Board of Trustees of association and corporate magazines. 25 Legal Eagles: Amotion Proceedings to Remove Elected Officials from Office Volume 68 Number 5 35 Member Relations Corner: Why Reputation Matters September/October 2018
40 Talk of our Towns Executive Director & Publisher: Paul Meyer 44 Taking the Field: Rebranding Our Organization Editor: Scott Mooneyham Writer: Ben Brown
www.nclm.org 32 Southern City (USPS 827-280) is published bimonthly for $25 per year ($2 per year to member municipalities, $1 for single copies) by the North Carolina League of Municipalities Phone: 919-715-4000
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Southern City 150 Fayetteville St., Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27601 Published September 2018 • Volume 2 Issue 4 • 2018 Volume • 2018 September Published ADVERTISING: For advertising inquiries, please contact Innovative Publishing, 844-423-7272 (toll-free), WRITERS THIS ISSUE 888-780-2241 (fax), or advertise@ innovativepublishing.com
USPS 827-280 Periodicals Postage Paid at Raleigh, NC 27676 and additional mailing locations.
Scott Mooneyham Ben Brown Director of Advocacy Communication Public Affairs Associate
Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 | 3 Speaking Out A Year of Accomplishment
By NCLM President and Jacksonville Mayor Pro Tem Michael Lazzara
ack in March, as I spoke at a Over the past year, as your President position ourselves politically. Though news conference regarding of the North Carolina League of this can seem a two-step-forward, one- Bthe release of the League’s Municipalities, I have had the distinct step-back process, where we are today important whitepaper on broadband honor of helping this organization in terms of legislative relations was access in North Carolina, I mentioned continue to develop into one that is never better demonstrated than during the importance and the obvious nature mission-driven, one that is keeping pace the first-ever Town & State Dinner. of people’s attachment to the towns with the pulse of change. Being able to better connect with our and cities across the state that they love We have accomplished great things legislators over a meal, and seeing how and hold dear. There is little doubt that together. receptive they have become to working we are living in times of tremendous As I mentioned at the outset of this together on common purposes was change, and a big part of that change column, the release of the League’s heartening. involves demographic shifts and broadband report and efforts in The year also saw continued changes increasing urbanization. promoting better Internet access in the Risk Management Services I think one of the things that we across the state represented a major Division and our insurance operations, can be proud of at the North Carolina step forward. It was the first effort of making offerings more responsive to League of Municipalities is that we its kind for NCLM, and one that we pool member needs. have evolved into an organization hope creates a template for future major Finally, by the time that you read this, that takes seriously the challenges and policy campaigns. an effort to rebrand the organization opportunities created by this change. During 2018, we also created a with a new logo and associated Yet, we continue to recognize the Municipal Operations Consultants messaging, to better reflect the goals of tremendous value in the diversity of program, putting four former municipal the Vision 2030 strategic visioning plan our cities and towns. As I noted in managers in the field to assist towns will have been well under way. And March, yes, we have growing, bustling and cities. These folks are meeting we will have unveiled an opioid crisis cities that have become national drivers with municipal officials to help with toolbox (see page 22) so that all of our of the economy. We also have a rich questions or concerns over finances, members can emulate the best practices tapestry of small towns that have unique difficult audit results, and management of those members that finding success characteristics and abound with nearby or operational issues. By providing in addressing this terrible crisis that natural beauty. As a mission-driven hands-on help in this way, we believe is harming individuals, families and organization, we know that it is our duty the League is making and can make communities. to help all of these places thrive and a real difference when it comes to As I leave the post as NCLM allow the residents of each to pursue ensuring the vitality of municipalities. President, I want to thank all of their own individual visions of what I am also very proud of our my fellow member of the Board of their communities should be. organization’s continued efforts to better Directors and all the other elected continued on page 42
4 | Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 Amazon Chooses Garner for New Facility
In each edition, Southern City will regularly feature one of the local stories uploaded by member municipalities to HereWeGrowNC.org as a part of the League’s campaign promoting investments by cities and towns that aid economic growth. To learn how your local story can be featured, go to HereWeGrowNC.org.
community, our citizens will have to shoulder less of the tax burden in the years ahead,” Dickerson said. “I commend the work of the Town Council and staff in enhancing the Town’s long-term fiscal stability.” The Town Council on July 2 unanimously approved a special- use permit request by Dallas-based Hillwood Development Company to develop nearly 88 acres of the approximately 98-acre tract with a four- story building that will have a footprint own of Garner officials are number of employees at the facility will of 680,000 square feet. The nonprofit hailing Amazon’s selection be several hundred more than peak Garner Economic Development of the Garner Technology employment at the ConAgra plant. Corporation (GEDC)—established Center as the location for a “This is a historic day for Garner. after ConAgra donated the site to the Tnew 2.6-million-square-foot, state-of- Today will be remembered as the Town to take ownership of the property the-art distribution center. The Seattle- day that Garner entered a new era of and oversee its redevelopment—closed based e-commerce company will invest prosperity and opportunity,” Mayor on the sale of 88 acres of the property approximately $200 million in the site Ronnie Williams said at the Aug. 10 to Hillwood on Aug. 8. “This project on Jones Sausage Road, formerly the news conference announcing the meets the goals the GEDC set out to location of the ConAgra plant where a e-retailer’s decision. “Amazon’s selection accomplish,” GEDC board chair Bruce deadly explosion occurred in June 2009. of this site is an important milestone Andrews said. “Sale of the property The investment will create an estimated for our town as we continue to move will allow us to continue to be an 1,500 jobs, making the distribution forward after the ConAgra tragedy.” instrumental force in Garner’s future center Garner’s largest employer. Town Manager Rodney Dickerson economic development efforts.” Amazon hopes to open the center by noted that the new investment at the Hillwood will partner with the Town fall 2019. The e-retailer’s investment site will help the Town move closer and NCDOT to make critical road in Garner will be approximately four toward a 50-50 balance of commercial improvements along Jones Sausage times the amount of peak investment and residential tax base. “As a result Road and also the Jones Sausage/Garner by ConAgra at the site, while the of this major new investment in our continued on page 43
Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 | 5 Cover Story BEING A UNIFIER
Mayor Pro Tem Lazzara Has Penchant for Bringing People, Ideas Together
By Ben Brown, NCLM Advocacy Communication Associate
hen a young U.S. Marine named Michael Lazzara settled into his uniform at Camp Lejeune in the early 1980s, he wasn’t getting the Wfriendliest vibe from the surrounding city of Jacksonville. Interaction was cold. Services, like cab rides, came at gouged-up rates. For Marines, anyway.
“Things weren’t right between the civilian community for the past year, as president of the North Carolina and the military community,” the Chicago native said. League of Municipalities. Coming to latter 2018, his In his four-year stationing at Lejeune, Lazzara service as president is drawing to a close, but in both joined a number of cold-weather deployments (“your roles he’s kept the concepts of mutual respect and Norways and your Koreas”) only to come home to cooperation at the front of his mind. He knows there’s what seemed like a lack of appreciation. no good future in division and adversity. “I always knew this could be a better town,” he said. In other words, his service with the League has “But I didn’t know how I would play a part in that.” focused heavily on relationship-building among local Lazzara told his story to Southern City recently in and legislative officials. Starting much earlier, this a conference room at Jacksonville City Hall, where once-a-Marine-always-a-Marine applied the same staffers know him as Mayor Pro Tem Lazzara and, mentality to help make Jacksonville a city where
6 | Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 Jacksonville Mayor Pro Tem Michael Lazzara is a strong military supporter, having served in the Marines himself. Photo credit: City of Jacksonville
everyone -- military and civilian alike heavily through the Onslow County observed each year since. -- felt welcomed and supported. town. “So, essentially, that was the opening But there’s more backstory. On Oct. 23, 1983, a suicide bombing salvo of our community,” said Lazzara. While Lazzara could’ve chosen on buildings housing peacekeepers in The memorial’s dedication came anywhere to live after his service was up Beirut, Lebanon, killed 241 U.S. service the same year he finished his service at Camp Lejeune, he had already met members, a large number of them with the Marines. As a private citizen, his future wife and decided to make Jacksonville-based Marines. “The town the ensuing years would see him as Jacksonville his permanent home. He really got together and understood the a successful businessman, starting hadn’t put any real thought into elected impact of losing neighbors, coaches, with automobile sales and later as the office; just a good, private-sector career, Sunday school teachers. They really owner of several pizzerias, earning family and community involvement. started to come together,” Lazzara said, him a number of recognitions along By that time, the cold vibe he noting a local tree planting for each the way. He’d joined the local chamber experienced as a Marine was changing peacekeeper killed in the bombing, and of commerce early on and got heavily -- sadly with no small credit to a global in 1986 the dedication of the Beirut involved. He climbed its ranks, tragedy 6,000 miles away that rippled Memorial that has been ceremoniously joining its military affairs committee
Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 | 7 NCLM President Lazzara at CityVision 2017 Photo credit: Cindy Burnham for NCLM
to maintain good relations with the Marine base, enlistees and their families. He eventually became the committee’s chairman, and later the chairman of the chamber’s board overall. “I always had a flavor for -- I didn’t know what the term meant back then, but -- public service,” he said. “I was always a volunteer of some sort.” (He even remembered leading a fundraiser for UNICEF while in grammar school.) “We knew that we had to play a part their loved ones were away serving our At the chamber, he saw the rollout of in retaining family members here and country.” a project after Operation Desert Storm making sure that they were comfortable Per the effects of that outreach, which that worked to support military families. and all their needs were met while led to better services at businesses and discounts for military spouses and children, Jacksonville was named an All-American City in 1992. “That gouging mentality has been gone for a long time,” he said, referring to that past tension between the military and civilian-run businesses. “We’ve become one as a community.” And so as a unifier, a civic honor awardee and a businessperson of the year, Lazzara became known in the community, both military and civilian. In 2003, he got the inevitable call. “What led to public office was a We’re proud to provide key pieces friend called and said, ‘You’d be great for of North Carolina’s extensive rail system — including 317 miles of local government. We need someone,’” track that offer access for hundreds Lazzara said. of companies, and direct economic He didn’t flee from the suggestion. development investments that help attract new businesses and “I’ve been very blessed. I’ve always good jobs. Together, we’re building worked hard at everything I did. I’m just toward a bright future. a believer that giving back is essential. If you’re blessed, you have to give back,” he explained. The bad news was that the candidate ncrr.com filing period for city council had already @NCRailroad closed.
8 | Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 Above: Lazzara calls community involvement essential. “If you’re blessed, you have to give back,” he says. Left: The Beirut Memorial in Jacksonville is ceremoniously observed each year. Photo credit: City of Jacksonville
connectivity, or well-maintained infrastructure. Of course, the Marine base now has partnerships with the community as well. “We handle all their signal repairs now. We work on water resource issues together. Things in the past that just never took place,” Lazzara said. “And that’s a result of relationships and understanding what our relationships are in service to the people that we “So I had to do a write-in candidacy,” He continues his focus on unity with all serve, which is the young military he said. “I think I got like 1,480 votes as attention to detail, listening to what families, and then of course our a write-in, which was unheard of.” Jacksonville’s various communities community. If you don’t have that It wasn’t enough to win, but it was need to feel happy and cared for at communication -- that constant enough to fuel his filing the next time home, whether its parks for families dialogue and communication -- then it’s around, which saw him victorious. to enjoy, festivals, bike lanes and other them-and-us. And that doesn’t work.”
Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 | 9 City Summit SML DIgital Ads 10% Version PRINT.pdf 5 6/18/18 12:35 PM
As president of the League this year, Lazzara in May hosted one of the best gatherings in the organization’s memory with the Town & State Dinner, bringing municipal officials and state legislators together to break bread, discuss common challenges and strengthen NATIONAL LEAGUE OF CITIES bonds that make working together possible. “We have more in common than not, BETTER LEADERS. and we have to be able to communicate C BETTER CITIES. that... Because I believe, at the end of M BETTER NATION. the day, that’s what makes you effective,” Y he said. “You don’t have to agree on CM YOU HAVE THE POWER. everything, but to be able to sit down MY and talk and work on issues together ... CY always ends up in the best results.” CMY
Asked what he’s learned or taken K away from his League presidency, he discussed his “rewarding” interactions % OFF with fellow municipal officials and with 10 League staffers. “We’ve been able to do EXPIRES SEPT 15 so many things together.” He listed an array of League services that go beyond legislative advocacy, such as legal advice, insurance, municipal operations and financial CITYSUMMIT.NLC.ORG/SML consulting, and statistics and analysis, which he said can go a long way for cities and towns that aren’t able to for the older generation, which includes pride in that,” said Lazzara. “Such great access such information with in-house retired senior officials from Camp young men and women.... I’m in awe. resources. Lejeune. They’re just so smart and talented, and “That’s taught me a lot over this year,” “I think that says a lot about our so we hope to develop these young Lazzara said. “And it’s sort of solidifies community” that they decided to stay, leaders for our replacements.” the fact that if you’re fortunate, you he said. Asked how he’s able to balance his need to help somebody that’s not as Lazzara hopes Jacksonville’s younger involvement in government with his fortunate.” residents pick up on the effects of family and the demands of his private Work continues back home, where cross-sector work. The city has a youth businesses (still owning pizzerias in he and fellow officials are thinking council made up of high schoolers who addition to a sign fabrication business), of future growth and preservation are, it turns out, showing local leaders he wasn’t clear on it, himself. of that united character. Recreation an impressive grasp of municipal “I just feel like if you’re going to do opportunities and connectivity remain governance. something, you need to do it,” Lazzara on the shortlist, thinking on what will “They represent the youth in our said. “Be involved and do the best you make life as good as possible for the community.... We believe those are our can.” SC next generation while still as enjoyable future leaders, and so we take a lot of
10 | Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 in Hickory, Sept. 19-21, for CityVision, the League’s annual conference. “Hickory sets the right tone,” said CityVision 2018 League Executive Director Paul Meyer. “Municipalities, united as the League, are working together to take on Crafting A Future challenges and grow their economies for a best North Carolina collectively, and no other event captures that like in Hickory CityVision.” Full days of programming this By Ben Brown, NCLM Advocacy Communication Associate year spotlight technology in service delivery for cities and towns of any size, efforts to expand broadband access, economic development, infrastructure challenges, grants and other helpful resources. Concurrent sessions focused on “Municipalities of Tomorrow,” with speakers Matt Thornhill and John Martin of the Institute of Tomorrow, looking at topics like the power of regional partnerships. “By working together, small, medium and large municipalities can complement each other’s offerings and give residents endless amenities and services,” says the session’s description. Dan Gerlach of the Golden Leaf The old Hollar Hosiery mill in Hickory has received new life in the private sector following a Foundation was set to discuss funding public-private partnership, a great example of repurposing the city’s legacy buildings. Photo credit: City of Hickory streams and how to make grant proposals shine. Brian C. Hooker of Due to Hurricane Florence, CityVision 2018 was postponed. As of press time, Fort Mac LRA in Atlanta is on the the League was exploring options to reschedule. agenda to discuss how an unoccupied former Army base has transitioned to a hen the City of “Hickory’s past and future prospects planned mixed-use development with Hickory rebranded have drawn to this place a people with retail and market-rate housing – all itself a few years ago an eye for detail and a hand for hard made possible by broadband. with the message, work, a passion for making something Addressing another standout W“Life. Well Crafted.” it was all a focus of themselves and of the future,” says a challenge for our communities, North on history and possibility, catching the synopsis from the city’s government. Carolina Attorney General Josh Stein city’s rich heritage in industries like fine That’s a motivator. And it fits was among those to present on the furniture-making with the broader idea perfectly with the League’s goal for a opioid crisis, resources available to of building something beautiful and great coming-together of municipalities municipalities, and how his office is enduring, together. hard at work to bring relief.
Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 | 11 Above: The Moretz Mill, another back-to- life property that benefited from public-sector help. Right: The Sails on the Square in downtown Hickory is a popular spot for events like outdoor concerts. Photo credits: City of Hickory Lower right: CityVision 2017 in Greenville brought private- and public-sector officials together to talk partnerships and revitalization. Photo credit: Cindy Burnham for NCLM
In perhaps the most important session of the conference, municipal leaders will determine key takeaways “The city is proud to put into specific plans of action for to present an exciting their cities and towns. CityVision’s Rock the Block Host programmers designed the event City event that will specifically for practical use. showcase Downtown The Hickory Metro Convention Hickory, The Sails Center will be the center of action on the Square, the this year. Dana Kaminske, the city’s Hickory Downtown communications and marketing Development manager, said much awaits conference- Association’s Art goers. Crawl event, as well as “CityVision attendees will fabulous and unique experience and learn about Hickory’s retail establishments,” rich traditions, along with the new Kaminske said. for such a high caliber conference,” enhancements that are coming soon to The League’s selection of Hickory for City Manager Warren Wood told the Hickory,” said Kaminske. Beyond the CityVision caught the local newspaper’s Hickory Daily Record. “With all of the Convention Center programming, she attention in early August. “The City exciting projects currently underway listed mobile tours, music and more. of Hickory is proud to be the host city in Hickory, we can’t wait to showcase
12 | Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 CityVision always makes for a happy reunion of North Carolina’s city and town officials. Photo credit: Cindy Burnham for NCLM
our vibrant community and all it has to offer to both residents and visitors.” These projects are on the map, too. Here We Grow, a statewide website from the League and WRAL TechWire highlighting local economic development stories penned directly by municipalities, pushed a pin recently in Hickory’s efforts to bring old, vacated buildings of the craftsmanship industry back to life. “Although weathered and aged, even with the gloom that comes with an abandoned building, there’s pride and hometown spirit felt by remembering the hard work that made Hickory a booming manufacturing town,” the piece begins. It points out that local sites like the former Piedmont Wagon, Moretz Mill, Simmons Hosiery, Hollar Hosiery, and Lyerly Mill have Academy transformed under public-private partnerships that revitalized them and put them to new private business use, Basic Code Enforcement and Overview for with millions of dollars invested, while Staff and Part-time Enforcement Officials preserving their historic character. Emergency Services Personnel – Is this a Code Violation and what should I do? “It’s binding the past to the future, Dealing with Public Nuisance Violations crafting a new Hickory with new and Chronic Violators industry, while acknowledging the Junked & Nuisance Vehicle Enforcement roots from which Hickory has grown,” Minimum Housing Code Enforcement the city explained on Here We Grow. Non-Residential Buildings & Structures Kaminske said CityVision’s mobile Enforcement tours would highlight some of these renovations. “The CityVision Conference will For Details or to Schedule a Training Call: 704.933.0772 give Hickory the opportunity to show And ask for: municipal leaders from all across the Patti Rader, Manager & COO state just what it means to enjoy Life. John Ganus, VP Code Enforcement Division Well Crafted. in Hickory,” she said. SC
Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 | 13 Advocacy Angle Advocacy Goals Conference is Around the Corner
By Scott Mooneyham, NCLM Director of Public Affairs
wo years ago, League members Nonetheless, emerging from the gives those legislative priorities their emerged from the biennial Advocacy Goals Conference with a clear heft, improving the League’s political TAdvocacy Goals Conference statement that North Carolina cities and influence and positioning in the state with a goal that had specifically towns were demanding clear authority capital. A process that involved only a resulted from a court ruling regarding to “assess the level of fees and charges handful of cities and towns, or a non- one municipality which threatened necessary for continued growth and representative cross-section, would not operations for many. economic development in the future” carry the same weight. The Quality Built Homes Inc v. Town was incredibly important to what was to And, of course, that is why each of Carthage ruling in the summer of follow. member’s involvement in the goal- 2016 imperiled the water and sewer In the weeks and months after the setting process is so important. impact fees charged by numerous conference and after the North Carolina The next Advocacy Goals municipalities all around the state as General Assembly reconvened, state Conference is just around the corner, law firms sought clients to bring similar lawmakers ultimately passed legislation set for November 29 in Raleigh. That lawsuits. on virtual unanimous votes that created conference is where all League members The League and its members certainly specific authorization for uniform will have the opportunity to vote on the had a case to make, and made it, that development water and sewer impact legislative and regulatory goals that will had the ruling dismantled those fees fees moving forward. then be pursued over the next two years. statewide, a long-term result would have The clear, unequivocal statement It comes after a summer and fall in been that residential growth would have from League members on the issue had which League staff solicited proposed been slowed as existing local taxpayers an effect. goals from member cities and towns, and utility ratepayers balked at picking The reason? Increasingly state and then policy committees met to mull up the price of new development. legislators recognize that the advocacy over, combine, refine and whittle those NIMBYism would have become more goals coming from the League are ideas down to a manageable number in vogue in many communities, putting representative of the views of the to present to the League’s Board of more pressure on local elected officials entirety of North Carolina cities and Directors and general membership. to respond to those concerns. towns, big, small, rural, urban, and The League is and strives to be a Without the fees paid by developers everything in between. And that member-driven organization, and no to support the required infrastructure includes the cities and towns in their aspect of member participation is more needed to serve those developments, districts. important that setting the advocacy one of the long-term losers would have It’s that representation and goals that will direct staff and member been the very developers bringing the involvement from member advocacy activities in 2019 and 2020. lawsuits. municipalities across the state that SC
14 | Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 This conference is where League members discuss and vote on which issues municipalities will prioritize when working with the NC General Assembly and state government policy makers. Register to attend so you can: • Represent your muncipality’s positions and ideas • Cast your municipality’s vote for League members’ 2019-2020 regulatory and legislative goals • Hear from NC Governor Roy Cooper (invited) & NC Treasurer Dale Folwell
NOVEMBER 29, 2018 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM
RALEIGH CONVENTION CENTER 500 S. Salisbury Street Raleigh, NC 27601
REGISTRATION OPENS IN OCTOBER www.nclm.org/advocacy/ municipal-advocacy-goals
Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 | 15 ith so much variety in modern communications Citizens Academies and outreach tools, Wit’s a new era of exploration and experimentation in government. Surprise Residents, What’s the most effective way to engage our citizenry and foster lasting Spark Involvement involvement? In Gastonia, City Manager Michael By Ben Brown, NCLM Advocacy Communication Associate Peoples is hard-pressed to find anything better than an open door, together twice each month for a on ways the city could better tell its citing the connections created when six-month period, just graduated its story. “The purpose of the Academy is residents arrive for the municipal second class -- and yes, there’s already to provide a forum where participants citizens academy. an alumni group there as well. develop a basic understanding of “It is unmatched from any other For Gastonia, it began with a city municipal government,” Director of interaction that we have, really, with council discussion a couple years ago Community Services Vincent Wong citizens in their level of excitement,” Peoples said. Citizens academies have taken shape in cities and counties around the country with similar effects. Residents might show up a little skeptical, but they so often leave with unexpected enthusiasm for the inner-workings of their city or town, organizers say. In a 2016 op-ed that appeared in Next City, Mayor Scott Fadness of Fishers, Ind., cited his local citizens academies first on a list of ways to amp up community engagement. “An ongoing program like this helps citizens understand the big picture and how they can best contribute; when they do, they are more invested in the outcome,” Fadness wrote. “Participants ride along with police officers and partake in firefighter training. The ‘classes’ even develop alumni groups, which have raised money for bulletproof K9 vests and served as support units for large fire events.”
The Gastonia Municipal Citizens The Gastonia Municipal Citizens Academy gets residents up-close and hands-on with city Academy, which brings participants services, from budgeting to fire fighting. Photo credit: City of Gastonia
16 | Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 And it goes deep, resident Bill they set off a large one. .... How they Marino confirmed. tackled this. Unbelievable.” “An ongoing program “Being exposed to it like that, I was But even the budget class delivered. fascinated,” he said. “And I think a lot “Even the ones that sounded boring, like this helps citizens of people should do it, actually.... There like budget planning, I was like, ‘Oh my were things that I didn’t know and it gosh, who knew they do all this to plan understand the big gave me an education of how it works.” a budget? ... Everything was just so eye- picture and how they Both Marino and Pearson named opening.’” the fire and police departments Peoples said the two academies can best contribute; among highlights, in getting a better Gastonia has done so far drew a when they do, they are understanding of their gear, training, promising cross-section of residents: procedures and character. different walks of life, ages and more invested in the “They actually did a 1,300-square- professional skills. While this city has foot house to show you how they 75,000 residents, Peoples says any kind outcome.” tackle a fire,” Marino said of the local of locality can put one together that fits firefighters. “Now, that was okay. But its own context. Scott Fadness, then when they got into a propane fire “Involve your elected officials,” he Mayor, Fishers, IN -- I had never seen a propane fire, and emphasized when asked for advice continued on page 43
explained in a recent city hall dispatch seeking new enrollees. But participants North Carolina’s Preferred Supplier describe it with total surprise. for Grills, Fire Rings, Park Benches, “After every class, I came back home Picnic Tables, Refuse Bins, and was like, ‘Oh my goodness, that Trash Can Holders, and more was my favorite one,’ and then the next week I’ll be like, ‘Oh my goodness, that was my favorite one,” said Amy Our products + Your parks = Pearson, a graduate of the most recent academy class. Lasting memories It’s not that Pearson is easily for parkgoers impressed. She said she approached it expecting the dull tone of her high everywhere school civics class, with sleepy lectures and uninspiring charts and graphs. “But once you got into it, it was completely and totally different than that,” she said, before explaining the up-close time it afforded her with the North Carolina’s Top-Ranked Government Supplier city’s various departments, employees, lesser-known services and unusual 800.241.0124 tools of the trade. “It was interactive www.correctionenterprises.com and fun and you learn so much stuff.” Buycode: SOUTHERNCITY18
Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 | 17 n a lot of lines of work, making a mistake is usually no big deal; League Offers Response- you realize the error, correct it, maybe offer up an apology if Iit’s warranted, and move on. The key to-Resistance Simulator to making mistakes, according to countless leaders, bosses, teachers and to Assist Law Enforcement parents out in the world, is to learn By Kristin Milam, NLCM Creative Services Associate from them and do your best to not repeat them. But, thinking about the decisions that municipal employees make every day, it is a real possibility that a mistake can result in a big loss, financial or worse. The potential for big mistakes can be found every day – directing traffic around a water main break, fixing a downed power line, or responding to a domestic violence emergency call. The League’s Risk Management Services staff works to help members keep these responses as routine as possible – and reduce the chances of mistakes happening -- through For police officers, making the right decision at the right moment is a tremendous challenge that sophisticated training is helping to cut through. Photo credit: Shutterstock education, training and prevention. It’s not just about mitigating claims. More importantly, it can be about saving lives Associate Executive Director of So how does the simulator and and protecting the public. Risk Management Services. “The training process work? The simulator’s That’s particularly true for law departments have said they just don’t setup involves a large screen, projector, enforcement officers and the daily have a resource for de-escalation and a computer programmed with work that they do. training. It’s a skillset that is needed. ” more than 800 scenarios an officer The newest risk management safety Focusing on decision-making might encounter in the field, such as an training opportunity for League as a part of de-escalation is a main active shooter or domestic disturbance. members is through its recently- component of the Response-to- “Officers have to communicate developed Response-to-Resistance Resistance Simulator and the training effectively in order for the simulation Simulator for law enforcement and policy review that accompanies to end successfully; I can adjust the agencies. “The simulator came at it. “Where we see failure is in the scenario on the computer based on the League’s Police Chiefs Advisory decision-making,” said Tom Anderson, how the officer responds. The focus is Committee’s recommendation and the League’s Public Safety Risk on de-escalation,” explained Anderson. is based on trending claims and Management Consultant, who will The scenarios can also be tailored to the gaps in training member law be taking the simulator into the field what a specific agency may encounter enforcement agencies face,” explained and training law enforcement agencies frequently or need additional training Bryan Leaird, the League’s Interim across North Carolina. on.
18 | Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 develops, and afterwards, explains and federal case law; if the current Focusing on decision- his or her thought process, addresses policy is not up-to-date, Anderson any mistakes made, and is given the works with the agency to incorporate making as a part of opportunity to try again. If an officer any necessary updates. de-escalation is a doesn’t effectively communicate and Addressing policy to make sure de-escalate the situation, the simulation it is providing proper direction and main component may end poorly. Likewise, if decision- best practices relative to the law is making is sound, Anderson adjusts the imperative, according to Anderson. “It of the Response-to- scenario to have a positive outcome. doesn’t matter the size of the agency; Resistance Simulator Either way, the simulation training is the Constitution and best practices are where mistakes can be made without one-size-fits-all.” and the training and real-life effects. The Response-to-Resistance policy review that Because effective training and policy Simulator training is available at no development affects law enforcement charge to municipal law enforcement accompanies it. response, agencies that go through agencies that participate in the League’s the Response-to-Resistance Simulator Property and Casualty Trust. For more start submitting their training policies information, contact Bryan Leaird at Anderson brings small groups of and procedures that must include a [email protected] or Tom Anderson at officers together for the trainings, and reflection of current North Carolina [email protected]. SC each officer from the group is taken through a 20 to 35-minute simulation where they have access to a range THE BROUGH LAW FIRM, PLLC of realistic weapons – firearm, taser NOW IN RALEIGH or pepper spray – that discharge a laser at the screen if used. The focus, however, isn’t on what type of weapon is present. Instead, it is about proper decision-making and selection of the most reasonable force option, if any. As Anderson warns, “it doesn’t matter what the trigger is attached to. Once you pull the trigger, life potentially changes for everyone involved.” The small group dynamic not only e Brough Law Firm, PLLC is pleased allows officers to witness multiple to announce that S. Ellis Hankins has scenarios and gain valuable peer joined our rm as the head of our newly review, but also serves to place the established Raleigh o ce. As an attorney and the former Executive Director of the responding officer in a situation where North Carolina League of Municipalities, his or her colleagues are witnessing and Mr. Hankins has years of experience evaluating reactions, which serves to advising and representing local mimic some of the elevated stress levels governments. Please contact Ellis or any that actual encounters produce. (919) 929-3905 member of our rm if e Brough Law broughlawfi rm.com The officer goes through the Firm, PLLC may be of assistance. simulation adjusting as the scenario Over 30 years experience in local government and land use law
Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 | 19 Risk Management Services Board of Trustees For over 30 years, the League has been 2017-2018 the expert in North Carolina municipal insurance coverage - in Health, Property & Casualty, and Workers’ Compensation.
Our expert staff will help: Chair Vice Chair • Determine your coverage needs Steve Maher Jody McLeod Mayor, Waxhaw Mayor, Clayton • Navigate the claims process • Provide education & training for staff • Identify claims trends that drive risk management strategies
• And more. Miles Atkins Brenda Clark Joe Gibbons Mayor, Mooresville Clerk, White Lake Mayor, Lenoir
Martha Sue Hall, Glenn LeGrande William Morgan Mayor Pro Tem, Risk Manager, Council Member, Albemarle Durham Statesville
Richard Olson S. Mujeeb Shah- Richard Woodruff, City Manager, Khan, City Attorney, City Manager, Elizabeth City Monroe Jacksonville
Ex-Officio Paul Meyer, Executive Director NC League of Municipalities
20 | Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 As part of a competitive selection Durham, Winston-Salem process, the cities’ applications demonstrated a commitment by their Selected for NLC mayors to lead a city-wide anti-hunger campaign coupled with a willingness to strengthen and expand programs Hunger-Fighting Effort that bring federal nutrition dollars From NLC and media reports into cities, such as the Afterschool and Summer Meal Programs. he National League of Cities To help cities address this ongoing “We are thrilled to have this grant has selected the cities of challenge, the National League of and we will be using it to increase Durham and Winston-Salem Cities (NLC) Institute for Youth, the capacity to serve meals through as two of six cities nationally Education and Families has partnered Durham Public Schools, the Durham Tfor the next round of its CHAMPS with the Food Research Action Center County Department of Social Services, initiative designed to combat hunger. (FRAC) to launch CHAMPS 2018. and community partners,” Mayor Steve Durham will receive a grant of This two-year initiative is supported Schewel said. “Our goal is to triple the $125,000 and Winston-Salem will by the Walmart Foundation, and number of children and families served receive a grant of $115,500, as well as the cities of Durham and Winston- after school and in the summer from 18 months of technical assistance. Salem participated in the CHAMPS five thousand to fifteen thousand per Hunger continues to be a daunting Cities Combating Hunger Leadership day over the next four years.” challenge for many families in the Academy in late May. In Durham, the grant will expand United States. Nationally, one in The two North Carolina cities were local summer and after-school meal six children lived in a household among six nationally chosen for the sites, and will serve an additional struggling to put food on the table in grants. The other four were Allentown, 14,850 meals to students. 2016. Some cities had much higher Pa.; Jackson, Miss.; Little Rock, Ark.; Peter Skillern, executive director rates. and Miami Gardens, Fla. at Durham’s Reinvestment Partners, worked with others at the nonprofit to write the grant application at Schewel’s request. Now he says he’s excited to see how the grant will create a surplus of resources for existing food insecurity programs. “We hope the grant will help Durham Food Services serve more clients, or rather, more students,” Skillern told Triangle-based publication Indy Week. “Our agency is deeply involved in supporting our local food system.” Clifford M. Johnson, executive director of NLC’s Institute for Youth, Education, and Families, says that Durham, where the grant will expand local summer and after-school meal sites to serve city leaders play an important role in thousands and thousands more students. Photo credit: iStock continued on page 43
Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 | 21 League Unveils Opioid Solutions
Toolbox By Scott Mooneyham, NCLM Director of Public Affairs
n September, the League unveiled its Opioid Solutions Toolbox, the culmination of months of work that included the guidance of NCLM President Michael Lazzara, Iinput from Attorney General Josh Stein’s office, and the help of League member law enforcement agencies from around the state.
The toolbox, which can be Municipal Equation, focusing on 2010, drug poisonings surpassed found on the League’s website at the opioid crisis also appears on the motor vehicle death rates for the www.nclm.org/opioidsolutions, toolbox page. first time since those statistics began includes real-world advice from “By highlighting best practices that being kept in 1968, according to police chiefs who are on the ground are already addressing opioid abuse the N.C. Department of Health and fighting the opioid epidemic and head-on, we hope that you will find a Human Services. In 2016, nearly have implemented programs that are solution that can work for you,” Lazzara five North Carolinians per day died making a difference. That advice comes said in an introduction to the resource of unintentional drug overdoses. from video episodes compiled by the page. “Our law enforcement leaders tell Although North Carolina was not League’s Ben Brown. There are also us we cannot arrest our way out of this among the states that have seen the web links to numerous information problem. We can, though, find better highest incidences of drug overdose resources provided by the Attorney ways to promote prevention, enhance deaths, it has been among those seeing General’s office, as well as other enforcement and improve treatment.” the largest increases in those deaths links showcasing programs and best- From 1999 to 2016, more than in 2015 and 2016, according to the practices to address the problem. 12,000 North Carolinians died from federal Centers for Disease Control and An episode of the League’s podcast, opioid-related overdoses, and in Prevention.
22 | Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 Far left: A used hypodermic needle clearly visible in a North Carolina grocery store parking lot island. Left: Waynesville Police Chief Bill Hollingsed. Lower left: Nashville Police Chief Tom Bashore. Photo credits: Ben Brown
Bashore reiterated the point of how opioid abuse has affected a wide cross- section of people. “Yeah, it touches everybody. There’s no one socioeconomic group that it gets, or race -- it doesn’t matter. Clergy, nurses. It gets everybody,” he said. The League hopes that this Opioid Solutions Toolbox will help towns and cities in need of solutions to address this crisis begin a conversation regarding what a program could look “Yeah, it touches like in their community. The video Waynesville and Tom Bashore segments and the linked information everybody. There’s no of Nashville provide advice after resources recognize that no one implementing some of the state’s more solution will work in every community. one socioeconomic successful programs to combat opioid It does attempt, though, to help group that it gets, or abuse. answer some tough questions. How “We’ve got to think outside the box. does a city start the conversation race – it doesn’t matter. We’ve got to do something different. toward an opioid relief or diversion We’ve got to get outside our comfort program? How does such a program Clergy, nurses. It gets zones. I’ve been a police officer for a actually work? Who pays for it? everybody.” long time. This (diversion program for How do you get addicts to trust the addicts) initially was a concept that program? What are the outcomes for Tom Bashore was outside of my comfort zone. But I the towns that have tried it? Nashville Police Chief am optimistic about doing something The League also anticipates the different,” Hollingsed said. resource page changing over time to He noted that this is an addiction add or adapt the information available crisis that is affecting young and old to better reflect the latest expert advice In creating the video episodes alike, and that many people began on addressing opioid abuse. If you featured on the page, Brown credited their addiction because of a legitimate have any information you would like Tom Anderson, NCLM’s Public medical need. Hollingsed said success to share, feel free to contact Scott Safety Risk Management Consultant, is about breaking down silos between Mooneyham, NCLM Director of for helping facilitate and direct the the law enforcement and medical Public Affairs, at smooneyham@nclm. interviews. Police chiefs Bill Hollingsed communities. org. SC
Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 | 23 The NC League of Municipalities’ Health Benefits Trust is excited to welcome 42 new employer group members for the 2018-19 plan year!
Since 1984, the Health Benefits Trust has been the only member-owned health insurance pool in North Carolina dedicated to municipal employer group health benefits.
We proudly offer employee benefit solutions for:
• Groups of all sizes, from 1 employee to 1,000+ employees
• Fully-insured plans, HDHPs, self-insured plans, and other fully-customizable options in between
• League members and other local government entities from Murphy to Manteo
Thank you to our members new and old – We’re Here and looking forward to working with you!
24 | Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 Legal Eagles Amotion Proceedings to Remove Elected Officials from Office
By Gregg Schwitzgebel, Associate General Counsel
he law generally presumes that in corporate law. (Recall that cities, voters at a particular moment in time. elected officials, who take an towns, and villages fall under the Accordingly, it is a procedure to be Toath of office at the beginning of umbrella of municipal corporations.) treated with the utmost care. Amotion their terms, approach their numerous English common law reflects that the is a quasi-judicial procedure, utilized duties acting in good faith. Accordingly, power was first exercised by municipal by the council from which the member it is further presumed that elected corporations in the middle of the 18th is sought to be removed. That means officials will be allowed to complete century, and the first North Carolina the amotion proceeding requires their respective terms of office, absent Supreme Court opinion dates to 1883. notice and an opportunity to be heard. some form of misconduct and removal The cases recognize an inherent power There must be appropriate procedural for cause. Given those presumptions, of boards to remove their members for safeguards including settled rules for what process allows the removal of an just cause. the hearing that address matters such elected official for misconduct? Most of the appellate cases date back as opening and closing statements, If the official is convicted of a felony to the early 20th century. For many the right to counsel, the presentation and has not had his or her citizenship decades, amotion lay unused, and of both evidence and testimony, and rights restored, the individual no legal experts were unsure whether it applicable time limits. The council’s longer qualifies for office under the remained a valid option in modern ultimate findings and conclusions for state constitution and a vacancy may times. However, it has seen something an order of removal must be supported be declared, but such a situation is of a rebirth in recent years, with several by sufficient objective evidence of likely to be rare. Some states allow for city and county governing bodies just cause for removal, related to the citizen-initiated recall elections, but in initiating amotion proceedings. While duties of the office, to withstand review North Carolina the general law does a modern amotion case has not yet on appeal. A local governing body not provide for them. (There are only reached the higher courts for review, considering amotion proceedings to two dozen or so municipalities that in 2013 a trial court recognized it as a remove one of its members should have been authorized to conduct recall viable action, provided that due process consult closely with its attorney. elections by local act of the General is properly afforded and the decision It is also important to note that Assembly.) is supported by competent evidence amotion can only be initiated by the In the absence of a felony conviction, and rendered by an impartial decision- body itself and not by disgruntled or authority to hold a local recall maker. citizens. If an action for an amotion election, a few local jurisdictions have Amotion is a very serious matter proceeding were filed by a citizen, the turned to amotion proceedings. The and should be reserved for the most court would find that the plaintiff- term “amotion” refers to a common extreme cases. In a sense, it stands citizen is not an elected member of law procedure for removing elected in direct contravention of the ballot the board from which the official is officials that actually has its origins box – that is, theSouthern will of a Citymajority | ofSEPTEMBER/OCTOBER continued 2018 |on 27page 43
Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 | 25 Sen. Jay Chaudhuri Success is Diversity of Thought
By Ben Brown, NCLM Advocacy Communication Associate
hen Sen. Jay Chaudhuri of Raleigh won appointment, and election shortly Wafter, to the General Assembly in 2016, he gave his chamber new perspective as North Carolina’s first Indian-American in the role. And whether it’s his background as the son of civically active first-generation Indian immigrants, or as a key player last year in a wide collaboration of government and private entities to recruit a major employer – Infosys, an India-based firm that announced 2,000 high-paying jobs in his district – Senator Chaudhuri knows diversity and cooperation is so often the missing link for success. He called the Infosys recruitment “a really insightful process in understanding how state government and local government, and the local chamber and the community college – Wake Tech in this instance – and
North Carolina State University all Sen. Jay Chaudhuri represents Raleigh, Cary and Morrisville. came together to land one of the Photo credit: Office of Senator Chaudhuri largest economic development job announcements this decade.” or advancing the importance of their interest in elected office? That level of collaboration is often respective organizations, to come I was prompted really to run for the missed in the everyday dialogue, the together to recruit a company.” state Senate because in many ways it senator said, adding being a direct was a natural extension of my public You weren’t totally green to the witness to it amazed him and made service work that I had carried out at government world, though, being him “truly reflect and appreciate what the highest levels of all three branches involved with the state from a staff we have here in Wake County – the of government beforehand. And that standpoint. What prompted your ability of folks to set aside their egos, began first with serving as a law clerk
26 | Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 this country to move to North Carolina how great the district is and what an back in 1972. And I’ve always found it honor and a privilege it is to represent curious, and I think I know why, that them. The downside, I think, certainly “Diversity of part of the reason that they have this is serving in the superminority and the deep love for this state as first-generation inability to get things done focused on thought is critically Americans is the welcoming nature of the larger issues challenging our state. important when this state, and its people and to what I That said, I think a lot of the general attribute to progressive leadership. The public, I don’t think they have a sense you’re making second reason, more from a personal of the relationships that exist across the level, is I had read a column by David aisle with other members. There are a decisions…. In Brooks in the New York Times. He number of Republican senators that I has this column called “Life Reports,” would count as personal friends. But many ways, I think where he asks his readers who are once we get on the Senate floor, the over 70 to submit comments and probability is very high that we’re not that’s reflective of recommendations to younger people going to agree on the bigger issues. On
about what they would do if they could the small issues .... we tend to come
the challenges we live their life over differently. And the together. “ number-one response that came back have here in the from his readership was to take a risk How about communication earlier in life. Obviously running for with leaders at other levels of General Assembly office is a huge risk. One, there’s no government? What do you and your financial upside to it. Two, you obviously municipalities talk about? Sen. Jay Chaudhuri have to put yourself under public The three municipalities I represent scrutiny. I made the decision that I was right now -- Raleigh, Cary and at a good point in my life to take this risk Morrisville -- are very diligent in, one, and to run for office. setting a legislative agenda, and updating to now-Chief Judge Linda McGee at their respective legislative delegation the North Carolina Court of Appeals, Has anything surprised you since your on what is important for them to carry and then included a very brief stint as initial appointment to the legislature? out going into the legislative session. legislative counsel to then-state senator What came as new to you? And then throughout the session there’s Roy Cooper, when he was majority I’ve experienced a lot of ups and downs ongoing communications either by the leader here at the General Assembly, and serving in the Senate. The upside of members of those town or city councils then proceeded to be almost a decade serving in the North Carolina Senate is or by the lobbyists that represent them. and a half serving as a senior counsel to really the honor and privilege of serving There’s quite a bit of interaction that then attorney general Roy Cooper and almost 200,000 people in my district, takes places with members of those former state treasurer Janet Cowell. So in Wake County. And the interactions three cities. And oftentimes we find the natural extension of public service I have with my constituency, the ourselves at the same events. And so I certainly was one reason to run for interactions that I have with the think having that open door and being public office. The greater desire was just businesses in this district, whether its able to be collaborative to the degree to continue to give back to the state of high-tech businesses like SAS or being that we can do so here in the General North Carolina, because my parents able to recruit a company like Infosys Assembly is important. When I was are immigrants to this country, and to the district, or working with small sworn in for my first two-year term, they made the decision relatively early business owners on challenges they I intentionally had my swearing in in their lives when they emigrated to have, it’s really kind of a reminder of ceremony at the Town of Morrisville.
Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 | 27 The Republican mayor then, Mark we now have two Indian Americans Growing up in Fayetteville, for me -- Stohlman, was the head of the city. that serve on the Morrisville Town both my parents were very active with And symbolically it was important to Council.....And then we have an Indian- the larger community in Fayetteville. me that so much of the way the Town American city council member that sits They were very involved in giving of Morrisville functions -- where in Charlotte. And then we also have an back to their communities and both you have Democrats, Republicans Indian-American city council member involved with nonprofits ... and having and independents working together that serves in Asheville. And I think my parents serve as role models in -- is in many ways a model that we what is interesting is, if you look at the active life that they lived, not only should be trying to emulate here in the our city council representatives -- and in their professional careers but also North Carolina General Assembly.... in fact you have two members of the recognizing that it’s important to give I think in so many ways, what we see city council that are first-generation back to the larger community really in municipalities, where you have Indian-Americans that have actually instilled my sense of public service. I members of town councils coming immigrated from India now have remember my father wrote letters to together regardless of party ideology come here and have decided to run for soldiers that were serving in Iraq during working together, is a great goal for us to office, successfully, and now serve at the the first Gulf War. That was something strive for here. municipal level. that the community members of the Cumberland County community really Let’s talk more about the dynamics of What about your parents’ background rallied around and tried to figure out your background, going back to your influenced your perspective on what different ways that they could support parents..... it is to be involved in America? their troops, back in 1991. My father is They originally emigrated (from India) a physician; he began his service serving to St. Louis, Missouri, back in 1965, and spent a brief period of time in Chattanooga, Tennessee, where I was born, and then a brief period of time in Boston, Massachusetts. But they have spent the bulk of their time here. In 1972, they moved to Fayetteville.
Looking at the concentration of the Asian-American population in and around Morrisville, and looking at the higher number of Indian- Governmental Entity and American elected officials in North Carolina today, do you see an energy PublicGovernmental Official Representation Entity and in that group when it comes to civic Public Official Representation presence? Raleigh | Wilson | Kinston I do. I think following along the lines Toll Raleigh Free: | 1Wilson 877-641 | Kinston-8848 of immigrant groups, you have first- generation immigrants such as my Tollwww.cauleypridgen.com Free: 1 877-641-8848 parents who focus on their economic www.cauleypridgen.com security, and then you have second generation immigrants that now focus on engaging in the political and civic aspects of their communities. And so
28 | Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 That’s encouraging. Sometimes people have the qualifications to serve in state elected office but worry they don’t have the time or ability to balance their family time and finances and so on. It’s a great question. I’d say a couple things. One, I think anybody who has an interest in running ought to spend time either attending those committee meetings for that respective body that they might be interested in, or even shadowing a member to see what the day is like for the office that they seek to hold. But what I think is surprising Senator Chaudhuri says communication with different stakeholders is key to good is that perhaps people who tend to run outcomes. Photo credit: Office of Senator Chaudhuri for office are obviously ambitious and can put a lot of pressure on themselves in the VA hospital there in Fayetteville, possible. And so it’s important, if I go as to what is expected in their ability to and so the interactions that he has had to events, to try to take the kids with carry out the job. I think it’s important to with veterans is always a reminder of me or take the entire family. If we have remind people that once you hold that the sacrifice that veterans make for legislative conferences, we try to attend elected office, you do have a fair amount our community. But I think listening as a family because I think that exposure of control over your schedule, and how to those stories growing up is also a is important, and it means that I’m you decide to spend that time will reflect reminder of the sacrifices that veterans not experiencing those conferences your priorities, I think both on what have made for our country too. or interactions with individuals in a is important to your constituency and vacuum, but it’s something that I can your policy but also what is important to What about your children? Any share with the rest of my family. you and where you are in your station in aspirations for public office? life. I mean, the challenges of an elected How are you able to turn off the work (Laughter) My daughter definitely has official who’s retired versus one who has part of the brain when you need to? a great interest in politics. She’s 11 years a family like I do are very different. old. I think that’s good and bad, but I My feeling is that, I think if you want certainly encourage her civic interest to be successful in politics, you have to Being that you’ve made the sacrifice, and I think it’s great to be able to see a have times in your day and your week what do you want to accomplish young girl who has an interest in politics where you turn it off. I think it’s also here? in today’s age. My younger son, who is incredibly important to remind oneself I would like to see a state where we’ve 7, seems to be well versed in politics. that there are bigger and better priorities invested more in public education, I’m not sure politics is in his blood. He for oneself. Particularly when it comes to where our teacher pay, as Governor seems more interested in the arts. One of family. At the end of the day, family and Cooper talks about, is top-10 teacher the things that you hear, and I certainly faith are very important to me. From pay. I would like to see our state expand learned in my time serving with then- my perspective, I really try to maintain Medicaid so that we can provide attorney general Roy Cooper, is politics, a division between when I serve in affordable health care to those who in order to be successful for the elected this elected role from when I serve as a deserve it. I would like to see our state official and the family, you try to make lawyer in private practice to when I’m a focused on investing more capital in it as much of a family experience as husband and father. continued on page 42
Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 | 29 Regional Roundtable Discussions Foster Dialogue on Population Challenges
By Scott Mooneyham, NCLM Director of Public Affairs
ince late June, the League’s grassroots staff has been Sleading a series of Regional Roundtable Discussions at sites around the state, meetings that are scheduled to continue into the fall as NCLM staff now gears up for more of the same. The purpose of these meetings is simple: It’s about having municipal officials from across the state share, in facilitated discussions, how they are meeting the challenges and opportunities of today and tomorrow with one another. “We hope these meetings provide local officials with information, tools, and contacts they need to tackle current and future municipal challenges. We want League members NCLM Municipal Operations Consultant Harold Owen (standing) is a former Burlington city to take away that we are here to help manager. Photo credit: Scott Mooneyham cities and towns meet their goals so that they can be competitive well into directly from the League’s strategic larger cities are coping with these the 21st Century,” said Vickie Miller, visioning plan identified by member issues, even if they present themselves NCLM Grassroots Coordinator. cities and towns in 2014. “I am a firm in different ways. At one of the Roundtable believer in not reinventing the wheel, The group that gathered in Durham Discussions held in Durham in late so if you have something going on represented a cross-section of League August, NCLM Board of Directors in your community that is working, members and the various sized member and Morrisville Town we want to know to know about municipalities that make up that Councilmember Liz Johnson focused it,” Johnson said in facilitating the membership – Durham, Hillsborough, the discussion on how cities and discussion. Creedmoor, Oxford, Stem, Butner, towns are coping with demographic From the discussion that ensued, Morrisville and Clayton. and population changes, a challenge officials in both smaller towns and
30 | Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 Durham Council Member and NCLM Board Member Mark-Anthony Middleton remarked that, for his city, a booming population and economic growth has created a tremendous need for affordable housing as demand for roseassociates.com the homes there and corresponding 704.896.0094 prices have risen. He also discussed all that Durham is doing to try to connect residents – from its work on connecting bike-able and walkable trails, to its plans for high-speed rail – from a transportation perspective. “To be a great city, people have to be • Economic Development Planning able to get to the great things in that • Market Analysis • Land Use Strategy city,” Middleton said. His comments, particularly about • Experiential Place-Making affordable housing, were echoed in remarks by Durham Mayor Steve Schewel as he opened the session. Even more pressing for the Economic Development & municipalities in southern Granville County are needs associated with Real Estate Advisory Services sewer and water capacity, even as regionalization has occurred there. Elected officials from Creedmoor, Stem, Butner and Oxford all discussed how crucial adequate water and sewer towns with technical help to meet very concerned, because they are is to growth and continued viability. financial challenges and obligation, has hearing this. But let’s be honest. The Oxford Mayor Jackie Sergent been featured as a part of the sessions. private sector is not going to fix this,” discussed how that city obtained In Durham, Municipal Operations he said. millions in grant and loan funds that Consultant Harold Owen spoke To date, in addition to Durham, the were a part of the Connect NC bonds about how he and his three colleagues Regional Roundtable Discussions have and administered through the N.C. assigned to different parts of the state been held in Sanford, Jacksonville, State Water Infrastructure Authority are working to assist cities in a program Morganton, Greenville, Sparta and to replace aging water and sewer that is free of charge. Roanoke Rapids. Another round infrastructure. Owen, former City of Burlington of meetings will be held from mid- The sessions, in Durham and manager, noted that for towns to October through early December. elsewhere, have also included a remain vital that they are going to “At each of the meetings held so far, legislative update and an overview of have to remain attractive to young it has been great to see city and town League services. people and that means providing them officials share ideas with each other One of those services, the new with economic opportunity. He said about the ways they are growing jobs Municipal Operations Consulting a part of the solution has to be public and the economy in their regions,” program, designed to help cities and investment. “The legislature is getting Miller said. SC
Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 | 31 EVERYTHING UNDER THE SUN Beach town governments see, do it all to make it work
By Ben Brown, NCLM Advocacy Communication Associate
t’s the holidays at your beautiful, when their local population can “The focus of a lot of the structure three-bedroom home. You, mushroom 10 times or more. Think in the government is to handle that,” Iyour spouse and two children back to that old-fashioned family said Brian Kramer, town manager of are unboxing ornaments, lighting beach vacation when you were young, Pine Knoll Shores, a coastal Carteret cinnamon-scented candles, humming or the one you took your kids on this County municipality whose year-round seasonal classics and whiffing sugar past summer. Odds are, you were one population of 1,600 surges to 10,000 in cookies from the oven. The doorbell of thousands upon thousands of out- the summer. “The way we’re structured rings. You knew it would. Peering of-towners enjoying that little piece of for public works, for public safety, and through the living-room blinds you sand and sun. The time it took you to so on and so forth is in fact, ‘What are see a dozen cars (minivans, mostly) park the car reminds you. we going to do when there’s 10,000 crammed into your driveway and In essence, you were a resident folks here?’” onto the lawn, each one roof-racked of that small beach town for that Kramer spoke as a panelist on the high with luggage. In the remaining weekend or week or month of your challenges that tourism communities yard-space stand roughly 45 chittering stay; the town itself actually planned face and how they overcome it all year members of your extended family, with and budgeted for it. Think. How could after year. Joined by Pine Knoll Shores firm plans to stay all month. In your the town function under the pressure Police Chief Ryan Thompson and Greg little, three-bedroom home. of 10 times the normal population “Rudi” Rudolph of the Carteret County Are you ready? without enough police officers, fire Shore Protection Office, the panel was That’s what a number of municipal protection, water and sewer capacity, part of the N.C. Local Government officials ask themselves yearly as the traffic planning, trash pickup and other Budget Association’s recent conference calendar heads into tourism season, essentials? in Atlantic Beach and was recorded live
32 | Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 Above left and top right: A hot summer weekend packs the strand in Carolina Beach with visitors. Photo credits: Ben Brown Above lower-right: The Bodie Island Lighthouse on the popular Outer Banks of North Carolina. Photo credit: iStock
for an episode of the League’s podcast, thrive without it. It’s a priceless piece millions of cubic yards per order. Municipal Equation. of infrastructure that the town has to Rudolph has seen about 14 million The misconception is common maintain. cubic yards of sand pumped onto that beach towns, with their desirable Call it beach nourishment, Bogue Banks since 1999. For reference, properties and retiree populations, are sand replenishment, coastal storm a dump truck holds about 12 cubic wealthy enough to cover needs easily. damage reduction or something else, yards, he said. “I wrote down how “Everyone thinks everyone who lives it’s an expensive must for coastal many dump trucks that is,” he added. at the beach is a gozillionaire,” Kramer communities against erosion. One such “It’s a lot.” said. “That’s absolutely not the case....” project, in which the beach is widened A wide, healthy beach and beautiful The beachfront property values are and dune system fattened with sand duneline is clearly attractive to indeed impressive, but coastal towns dredged up from offshore, can cost tourists. But more importantly, it like Carteret County’s have impressive $15 million easily. “Just to get a dredge creates a buffer from storm surge to demands. here is $3-$5 million,” Rudolph told keep property and lives safe -- a core Beyond the police, fire, traffic and the audience. He noted that’s before function of government, which cued other priorities is the beach strand a single grain of sand arrives. Sand is the panel’s third member. itself. There’s no way a beach town can purchased for $10 a cubic yard -- with
Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 | 33 “Two hours ago, my cops and I and conferences take place. They’re For nearly an hour, the three were on the beach because somebody too busy responding to anything and panelists heaped on the surprising reported human remains had washed everything. Domestic calls are pretty details and answered audience up,” said Chief Thompson. He said no common, the chief said. questions about what makes beach summer is dull in a coastal town, and “Unfortunately, when folks come town governance different -- from that there’s no way to make a shortlist on vacation, they think they’re going environmental and developmental of unforgettable moments. on vacation to leave their problems at issues to revenue sources and other His department has to beef up home,” said Chief Thompson. “But I tourism dynamics in that hard and fast on personnel to cover the seasonal can tell you, they bring their problems population crush. demand, and usually does so with with them.” “It’s very unique,” Chief Thompson officers already working in the region Otherwise, it’s “everything under the said. “I’ve worked for other (as opposed to the “rent-a-cop” sun,” he told the audience. municipalities and it’s the most approach). Being the beach, it’s not Those “human remains” turned interesting, I think, place to work.” all that hard to recruit. But what’s out to be animal parts, but Chief The panel’s entire recording can be difficult is Pine Knoll Shores’ inability Thompson said those calls are frequent. heard in Episode 54 of the Municipal to train officers in the summertime, If the carcass can’t be identified easily, Equation podcast at nclm.org/ when many of the training sessions his office has to call in scientists for an municipalequation. SC answer.
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34 | Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 Member Relations Corner Why Reputation Matters
By Jennifer Cohen, NCLM Director of Business & Membership Development Services
“ t takes 20 years to build a reputation own diverse visions for each. Some of had to engage in some reflection. The and five minutes to ruin it. If you those challenges included: urbanization outward message needed to reflect our Ithink about that, you’d do things patterns, changing perspective of internal values. Therefore, we decided to differently.” – Warren Buffett. government among voters, changing have an honest, lengthy discussion about “Reputation is like fine china. Once economic forces, technological pressures League values and organization culture. broken, it’s very hard to repair.” and demographic trends. In July, department managers and other – Abraham Lincoln. Helping our members navigate staff members spent a day digging deep I had two opportunities lately to through these issues has been a into these topics. What emerged from consider this advice. First, when I touchstone of the work we’ve been the group were some pretty inspiring delivered my children to college for doing here at the League over the past themes of strength, unity and teamwork. yet another year. I’m sure many of you four years. We’ve arrived at the point Taking a step farther, we talked about can relate to the lack of control you feel where we knew our brand of “Good the League as a supporter and promoter as you drive away. After a summer of Government. Great Hometowns” of communities, as an agent of societal having some purported influence over needed to yield to the broader Vision change and as a contributor to the them, here you are. Leaving them to 2030. Therefore, early this summer, we success of North Carolina. their own devices and praying that their embarked on a rebranding effort that What began in Charlotte in 1908 as judgment (or luck) holds. better captures the spirit and purpose of the Carolina Municipal Association is Knowing they were chomping at the League. as vibrant and relevant an organization the bit to get back to “independence,” I After a nationwide RFP, we hired a as ever. The League’s reputation -- years merely handed them each a note with local Raleigh firm, Clean, Inc. Clean in the making -- remains intact. It is the words above and instructed them to has worked with several North Carolina a reputation of service, of integrity, of pin it on their mirror. Fingers crossed municipal entities: Carolina Beach, expertise. It is a reputation built on that Buffet and Lincoln would hold sway Fuquay-Varina, Wilmington and serving and sustaining our owners ... with them where I might not. Beaches CVB, Chapel Hill/Orange you, the cities, towns and municipal The second opportunity was here County Visitors Bureau. It also entities of North Carolina. at the League. As many of you know, created the very successful Go Triangle To that end, it is your reputation as in 2014 we embarked on a strategic campaign for Triangle Transit. For well. Maybe that’s why we “do things planning initiative, dubbed “Vision those of you that attended CityVision differently.” Because our reputation is 2030.” Vision 2030 was born of a desire 2018, you saw a glimpse of what is to your reputation. So, as always, thank to assist North Carolina cities and towns come in our new brand. you for your trust, for your business and in meeting the challenges of the 21st Most importantly though, we knew for allowing us to serve you. SC century, and to continue to reflect their that before Clean could get to work, we
Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 | 35 Preferred Partners Spotlight
North Carolina Cities in Partnerships to Educate and Protect Homeowners
The NLC Service Line Warranty In each edition of Southern City, the Preferred Partner Spotlight features one of the program is being adopted by more and League’s Preferred Partners, select vendors that have entered into agreements designed more North Carolina cities. A preferred to save cities and towns money through bundled purchasing and service arrangements. vendor of the North Carolina League of Municipalities, this program partners with cities and towns to offer affordable received positive feedback from customers highly recommended that to offer this protection against the results of a water who have not chosen to purchase the important protection to their residents,” he or sewer line emergency. One such city warranty but appreciate the information. said. is Hendersonville, who partnered with “This program has been extremely For more information please visit www. the program approximately seven years positive for City homeowners and I would utilitysp.net. ago. Hendersonville city officials were finding an increase in calls to the city from citizens with water and sewer line breaks. Don’t leave your residents’ The City learned about the NLC’s service service lines up line warranties program and decided Join the to partner with SLWA and offer this more than 400 to chance. winning communities voluntary program to its customers based that have brought the NLC Service its affordability and excellent coverage. Line Warranty Program to their city. “We wanted to offer an optional Offered at no cost to the city, this program that would educate homeowners program provides residents with about this responsibility so, regardless affordable coverage to repair broken or leaking water or Now it’s of whether or not it was purchased, sewer service lines. your turn. residents would at least be informed and Contact us not confronted with an unexpected and to help your potentially-costly repair,” said Jeremy community win. Poss, Hendersonville’s Technology and Metering Manager. to offer this important protection to their residents,” he said. In the past seven years, 3,253 Happy Cities. Hendersonville residents purchased Happy Residents. 3,863 service plans. These plans have Everybody wins. saved homeowners nearly $400,000 in have saved homeowners nearly $400,000 in repair expenses during this time. According to Mr. Poss, the city has also www.utilitysp.net • [email protected] • 866-974-4801
36 | Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 Winston-Salem, whose Bailey Park is seen here, has invested much into its innovation ecosystem.Photo credit: iStock
NLC, Schmidt Futures to Support City Innovation Ecosystems By NLC and NCLM staff
he National League of few cities are fully participating in the businesses, colleges and universities, Cities has announced a new high-tech, global economy. foundations, entrepreneurs, school program, City Innovation In partnership with and support districts and community-based Ecosystems, dedicated to from Schmidt Futures, a philanthropic organizations to commit to solutions. Thelping cities thrive in the modern organization begun by former Google Within the initiative’s first year, NLC economy. The program marks a major chair Eric Schmidt, the initiative will will bring together a new cohort new push by NLC to support regional challenge city leaders to promote of cities that have made specific entrepreneurship, innovation and innovation, entrepreneurship and commitments to strengthen their STEM pathways in a time when too STEM education by partnering with regional innovation ecosystems. These
Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 | 37 The City Innovation Ecosystems program seeks to support municipal efforts to encourage innovative entrepreneurship. Photo credit: Shutterstock
and its new initiative to support entrepreneurship and innovation at the local level.” said Tom Kalil, Chief Innovation Officer of Schmidt Futures. “Mayors and other civic leaders can increase opportunities for entrepreneurs in communities across the United States — fueling innovation, economic growth and the creation of high-wage jobs.” The initiative is aimed at supporting projects similar in nature to the Wake commitments will include actions to through technology and expand STEM Forest Innovation Quarter in Winston- accelerate the spread of innovation and learning opportunities for young Salem, though for municipalities of all technology, improve the climate for people. These groups will focus on city- sizes. That project is featured as a part entrepreneurship and give more young wide innovation initiatives, advancing of the N.C. League of Municipalities’ people exposure and experience with STEM, maker-centered learning, Here We Grow (www.herewegrownc. STEM learning. technology and innovation through org) initiative promoting the “Cities are the lifeblood of American afterschool and summer learning, investments by cities and towns across ingenuity. They provide the necessary K-12 education and postsecondary and North Carolina that are creating opportunities for inventors, scientists, workforce development policies and economic growth and improving educators and entrepreneurs to come programs. residents’ quality of life. together and solve our most pressing “Schmidt Futures is delighted to The City of Winston-Salem has challenges,” said Clarence E. Anthony, support the National League of Cities invested about $50 million in the Wake CEO and executive director of the National League of Cities (NLC). “This new partnership with Schmidt Futures underscores NLC’s commitment to Workforce Intelligence. It’s HOW we do IT. helping all cities — from small towns to One Platform. Two Solutions. major metropolitan areas — adapt and succeed in a time when technology is re-writing the rules of work, urban life It’s time to rethink employee engagement and communication. and global competition.” -eni’s BalanceBenefits. NLC will also help cities create It’s priceless to have your employees present. the next generation of innovators -eni’s NexGenEAP by supporting two communities of For Additional Information: Charlotte Victoria Chopra Raleigh Robert Netzel practice of senior city staff who are 704-430-3799 919-400-0026 working to improve local government
38 | Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 Forest Innovation Quarter, which is buildings has been turned into 243 and universities, school districts and a collaborative effort involving state residential units. A new 211-room community-based organizations and local government; Wake Forest hotel has opened. And restaurants and to strengthen entrepreneurship, University; Wake Forest Baptist shops are moving to the area to take innovation and STEM learning to be Medical Center; and private businesses advantage of this hub of activity. part of this exciting initiative. to create a downtown business park Featured in a 2016 New York Times Contact Scott Andes, program focused on data analysis, biotech health article, Winston-Salem Mayor Allen director, City Innovation Ecosystems, research and medical education. Joines noted the more than $1 billion to describe your city’s strategy, On the site of the old R.J. Reynolds in private investment in the city’s program, idea and partnership Tobacco Co. cigarette manufacturing downtown in less than two decades. at [email protected] or with further plant, the city and other partners in “The Innovation Quarter has been a questions. NLC will compile the this venture are using the past to turn big part of why that’s happened,” he best ideas and will feature the most to the future. Today, the quarter boasts said. innovative and bold commitments state-of-the art biomedical laboratories NLC invites mayors and other local at City Summit in Los Angeles, and a number of businesses devoted to leaders who are working in partnership California, November 7-10. SC medical research. There are software with businesses, foundations, colleges and data analytics firms. One of the
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Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 | 39 them as part of the challenge. Each The visual appeal, the aroma, the team also showed their creativity combining of textures − great job!” by adding snacks like pretzels and The challenged kicked off with Talk guacamole and vegetables and a discussion on basic nutrition hummus to their entries. They packed principles led by Cabarrus Health of our their items in containers and a cooler Alliance’s Nutrition Program as well as plated them for the panel Coordinator Meghan Charpentier, of evaluators. They were scored on MS, MPH, and Dole Food Towns nutritional content, taste, teamwork Company’s Nutrition and Health and the portability of their dishes. Communications Manager Melanie Evaluators for the event were: Dwornik, RD, whose father is a • Concord Mayor Bill Dusch retired New York City police officer. Concord and • Kannapolis City Council Member Kannapolis Police Chief Woody Kannapolis Police Roger Haas Chavis commented that the Complete Nutrition • Executive Chef John Blumreich, experience of the challenge today, Training with Restaurant Forty Six “showed us the options that we have Impressive Show • Colin Kay, PhD, Associate to eat healthier and explained why we of Culinary Know Professor of Translational should explore them.” How Nutrition and Food Sciences, NC At the end of the event, Concord State Plants for Human Health edged out Kannapolis during the oncord and Kannapolis Institute scoring round. Police wowed a panel of • Chef Mark Allison, Director of judges with their culinary Culinary Nutrition, Cabarrus C Health Alliance skills at this morning’s Cooking for Raleigh’s a Healthy Life Law Enforcement Each evaluator praised the teams Public Utilities Challenge, held at Restaurant Forty on the aromas, color, flavors and Department Six in downtown Kannapolis. presentation of their food entries. Receives National Cooking for a Healthy Life is “The blueberry smoothie and the rice Recognition the newest program of the City of bowls were all restaurant quality,” for Leadership Kannapolis’ Discover a Healthy commented Kay. “Everything was balanced with lots of protein for in Clean Water Life initiative. Today’s interactive Advocacy training was designed to give practical energy. I was very impressed.” nutrition tips and provide easy recipe “I’m not a nutritional expert,” Haas he City of Raleigh Public ideas that law enforcement officers remarked. “So what struck me the Utilities Department has could apply while working 12 hour most was the teamwork and sharing of received national recognition shifts. The hands-on segment was ideas.” T for Leadership and Advocacy for to help the officers become more “Lots of color and texture and responsible national policies that confident in their ability to make good aroma and taste, and,” Allison advance a sustainable approach quick, healthy meals. emphasized, “all of this food is to clean water from the National In 50 minutes, each team of 10 fresh so you know it has the highest Association of Clean Water Agencies officers created a fruit smoothie, nutritional value.” (NACWA). grain and vegetable bowl and a wrap Blumriech added, “I’m impressed NACWA’s new Advocacy using a pantry of food provided for with the roles you take in the community, and all you’ve done here. Recognition Program honors
40 | Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 Cultural Commission cultivated plans for a temporary mural that will be painted on panels to be installed on a wall of 68 Haywood Street walls that reads “LOVE ASHEVILLE.” Each of the 13 letters of the Love Asheville Mural are being uniquely designed by a different local design The ‘Love Asheville’ initiative reflects the creative vibe of the community. agency or graphic designer, with the Photo credit: City of Asheville overall theme reflective of Asheville outstanding advocacy work Public art is among the interim uses Grown’s brand and on-going undertaken by NACWA Member the Haywood Street Advisory Team campaign to support local businesses. Agencies to further municipal recommended for the property. As Coordination with the designers is clean water priorities. The annual the City continues to work toward being led by Jenny Fares of Sound recognition publicly acknowledges planning for permanent uses for the Mind Creative and Asheville Design direct actions taken by member adjoining Page Ave. and Haywood St. Salon. Contributing designers are: agencies to help advance the City-owned properties, temporary 828 Design, (Tom Petruccelli), Atlas Association’s interests—along with use of the properties is available the Branding, (Taylor Sutherland and the larger clean water sectors—in the public. This includes the Elder & Lisa Peteet), Curve Theory, (Reggie public affairs and public policy arenas, Sage Community Gardens at 33 Page Tidwell), Dena Rutter Design, furthering the collective mission to Ave. and a Mobile Vending Food Element Advertising, (Matt Levin). build a strong and sustainable clean Truck Pilot Program at 68 Haywood Gigantic, (Scott Smith), Harkness water future. St. In June, 68 Haywood played host Design (Marc Harkness), HNYCMB Special appreciation was reserved to a traveling musical play by the Creative (Tim Scroggs), Homestead for the services of Associate City American Myth Center, “The Ballad (Eric Pieper), Image 420 (Brent Attorney Daniel F. McLawhorn, of R & J.” Baldwin), Martha Skinner & Sophia who is a nationally recognized As part of this creative mix, Arbelaez, Novus Architects (Sydney leader in Environmental Law and an ad-hoc committee including Gilmore), Project 13 (Richard Norris) its application in North Carolina. representatives from the Haywood and Sound Mind Creative (Jenny Street Advisory Team, Downtown Greer Fares). SC Commission and Public Art and ‘Love Asheville’ mural collaboration Creating your coming to 68 Haywood COMMUNITY’S VISION
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Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 | 41 Sen. Chaudhuri continued from page 29 areas that don’t attract a lot of capital for everyone. From my perspective, both here in the country and around -- particularly those micropolitan and I would like to see a North Carolina the world that we embrace diversity, rural areas. I would like to see more that is more compassionate toward its which is an incredibly important job skills and reskilling programs people. And obviously we garnered a factor for businesses that are looking to in those areas so that we can bring lot of unfortunate national attention relocate here in the state….. Diversity middle class jobs to areas that are in with what happened with the passage of thought is critically important when many ways outside of the district that I of House Bill 2 (in 2016). Yesterday you’re making decisions…. In many represent, because I think focusing on (on Aug. 13), I held a press conference ways, I think that’s reflective of the areas outside of Wake County becomes calling for the passage of the Hate challenges we have here in the General a win-win for the entire state. One of Crimes Prevention Act, one day after the Assembly…. In an ideal world, which the things that frustrates me is we tend anniversary of Charlottesville. I think again is what we see in municipalities, to see in the legislature that we are those protections are important -- not when you have a diversity of thought pitted against each other, with a lot of only because it’s the right thing to do, come together and you incorporate that those issues being views as rural and but also because it sends an important diversity of thought, then you’re making urban, and I think it can be a win-win signal to the business community the best decisions that are possible. SC
Speaking Out
Delivering the IT Experience continued from page 4
You Want and Deserve. and appointed municipal officials dedicated to addressing the larger issues that affect us all by becoming involved in an organization like the League. Your insight and willingness to work with me and with each other has been priceless. It’s that commitment and Offering IT services, telephone involvement that ultimately ensures solutions, cyber security, offsite the North Carolina League of backups & disaster recovery, Municipalities will continue to and more to over 70 local evolve and grow to meet current governments across and future challenges faced by North Carolina. cities and towns of all shapes and sizes. SC
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42 | Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 Here We Grow: Garner Citizen Academies Legal Eagles continued from page 17 continued from page 5 continued from page 25 on starting an academy. “They need Road intersection. This will benefit all to be engaged and supportive of your motorists who traverse that area. The to be removed and would have academy. They need to understand the Town’s portion of the cost of this road to dismiss for lack of standing. benefits from that. They also need to project will be relatively modest— For that reason, amotion is not a understand the amount of time that it approximately $600,000 of the overall tool that can be used by citizens will take staff to conduct the academy.... estimated price tag of $5.1 million. seeking to challenge the wisdom And be ready for questions. We have NCDOT, subject to the availability of of an elected official’s decision on such an inquisitive group of citizens funds, is willing to commit up to $4.5 particular policy matters. The that have participated so far, and they million in economic development funds concept generally resonates in the are not shy at all in asking, ‘Well, why toward proposed road improvements principle that the departments, do you do it that way?’ and ‘How does along Jones Sausage Road. divisions, and agencies of this happen?’ or ‘Why is the budget this It is expected that the distribution government should not be large?’” center will add approximately $45 hampered, on a day-to-day basis, Mayor Fadness in Fishers, Ind., million annually in new payroll in by lawsuits from citizens merely agreed in his op-ed that a city has to Garner. “That additional payroll will disagreeing with the difficult, embrace transparency to pull it off. have positive ripple effects throughout multi-faceted policy decisions of “This is, in fact, a major reason why our local economy,” Garner Economic governmental officials. many governments struggle to engage Development Director Joe Stallings Lacking the ability to initiate communities,” he said. “The public is said. amotion themselves, and lacking a demanding transparency today from The project involves the successful recall option in most jurisdictions, employers, educators and companies repurposing of a brownfields site that citizens must rely on the in which they invest, and this certainly had been dormant since the explosion formidable power of the ballot box. extends to government.” at the former ConAgra plant. “This The primary remedy for citizens But good surprise and fun are the is a major success story for the state’s dissatisfied with a local elected fuel of it, in terms of being an effective brownfields program. We’re proud of official is to duly cast their votes engagement program. What about the work we’ve done with our partners at the next election for that office. after, though? Does it really create with the state to land this project at this SC lasting involvement? site,” Stallings said. SC Pearson said she’s now her neighborhood’s information source when it comes to questions about the Durham, Winston-Salem Selected continued from page 27 city’s government and services. She laughed when she said she’s probably addressing childhood hunger. saved Gastonia City Hall a lot of time “With mayors at the forefront of these local anti-hunger campaigns, we know on the phone. that cities can improve the health and well-being of children and families in their And don’t forget Marino. He’s joined communities,” he said in a statement. “The grant and technical assistance that these the local board of adjustment. CHAMPS cities will receive allows them to find new ways to address hunger and “And just recently -- I was thrilled brings the full force of a city, its agencies and staff, nonprofit providers, and business about this -- I got made vice-chair,” he and community leaders at large together to make sure that children have access to said. “It got me involved.” SC the regular meals they need to grow and thrive.” SC
Southern City | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 | 43 Taking the Field Rebranding Our Organization
By Paul Meyer NCLM Executive Director
ver the course of the last None of that may be news to some I want to let you know that, just few years -- in these pages, of you. What may be news is that the like with our strategic visioning effort, Oat League events and League has embarked on an effort to this effort too is member-driven. The individually to those involved in the rebrand our organization. And that public relations firm that we have been endeavors associated with municipal rebranding will be designed to reflect working with conducted an extensive government -- I have spoken a lot our commitment to those strategic survey of members, did individual about the North Carolina League visioning goals and the values of this interviews with a cross-section of of Municipalities becoming an organization, both as a staff and as a municipal officials and others familiar organization that is more responsive federation of cities and towns working with the League, and held of focus to member needs and to the shifting toward a common purpose. group session with a group of our landscape of local governance. Yes, one outcome of this process Board of Directors to better understand The staff at the League and will be the development of a new the organization’s mission, goals and municipal officials all around the state League logo and associated messaging perceptions about it. recognize what a huge challenge we designed to reflect that vision of who Finally, in addition to those face regarding changes in population we are today, as well as where we are audiences that I mentioned above, the and demographics, technology that headed tomorrow. In some respects, it League’s staff is an essential audience is radically shifting how services are will be just letters, words and colors – a for whom understanding why we do provided and how we communicate to new visual representation of NCLM. what we do is crucial. residents, and engaging the public that But if we have done it right, it will To be our best, serving towns and we serve amid ever increasing demands also encapsulate our values. And cities so that they can better serve their on people’s time. out of this effort will come a values residents, it is critical that all members Each of those challenges, and statement that we incorporate into all of our staff see the connections between others associated with this shifting of our communications to reinforce the agreed upon values of our cities and technological, economic and the common values of North Carolina’s towns, and what they do on a daily governance landscape, is encompassed cities and towns acting as the North basis, and how our staff efforts help in the goals that came out of our Vision Carolina League of Municipalities, and each of you make your towns and cities 2030 strategic visioning plan. That your League staff will begin to reinforce better places to live, work and raise should not be surprising. Those goals the “why we do what we do” to all of families. came directly from you, from research our audiences – member cities and Having a brand that incorporates all and communication with member towns, other advocacy organizations, of those ideas – and that better allows cities and towns. They are about how allies in the business community, state people to connect us to them – is the this organization better prepares policymakers, the news media, and “why” of why we have embarked on members to meet this future. even at times the larger public. this effort. SC
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