The regular meeting of the Franklinton Board of Aldermen and Mayor Darwin Sharp was held on Tuesday, May 12.
In new business the board held a public meeting on the ordinance to update the zoning ordinance including the new zoning map. Stephen Villavaso spoke on behalf of the Zoning Commission and explained that the new Master Plan continues open for public viewing and comments/questions on the Town's website. There have been some positive discussions about the ordinance and map that have been documented and processed. After the closing of public meetings and towards the end of the summer, the commission will put out the new proposed ordinance and a newer map. He reaffirmed that the commission is listening to the public in building a Master Plan for Franklinton and stressed that the process is continuous.
Alderman TJ Butler questioned if the Board would receive a copy of the map. Villavaso explained that a new map has not been drawn yet, but that is coming once the Board, and the commission feel that there has been adequate time for public input and are ready to vote on the new ordinance and map.
Next, the Board voted to hire Maleke Evans pending a background check and pre-employment physical exam. Prior to the vote, Alderman Butler expressed his disappointment that the supervisors of all departments are not present at Board meetings to answer questions about potential employees. He feels they should always be present when something concerning their particular department is on the agenda. He stated, "I want someone to tell me something about this young man. We don't even know who we are getting. After he [or any new personnel] is hired, we find out info."
Alderwoman Patrice Crain added that Mr. Butler wants support from the supervisors. Mayor Sharp interjected that "we cannot discuss personnel in a public meeting." Ms. Crain asked if Evans was filling in one of four vacant positions or taking someone's place. The mayor confirmed he is taking the place of someone and there are all four vacant positions in public works. He added that background checks are being completed and again stated that personnel cannot be discussed in a public meeting. He did offer for Mr. Butler to come meet with him in private with questions and concerns.
That concluded the business portion of the meeting. In Council Discussion Mr. Butler asked for an update on the river project since the rain. Mayor Sharp confirmed that it has been temporarily stopped because of flooding, but electricity has been run to the site as well as dredging completed. He also pointed out that the cardboard baling company has cleaned around its area. Mr. Butler explained that he attempted to ride to the boat launch, but high water prevented him from going very far. He stated, "I'm reluctant. We are going to put $300,000 in that hole? Leadership. You want to throw away $300,000 for our children for it to disappear. That's all I have to say. Leadership."
Alderman Randy Reed reminded everyone that the temperature will soon be rising so be careful and take care of one another and "Do what's right."
Alderwoman Crain asked Town Clerk Ellen Creel to provide her with a list of what each department has spent thus far and their budget. She reminded the Board that Mr. Butler requested that the preliminary budget be ready by August, so it won't be done at the last minute. Mr. Butler explained, "I want every supervisor to explain their budget."
Alderman Seth Descant expressed that despite the heavy rain the water has seemed to drain quickly, and he hopes the bad weather has moved beyond us. He announced a nearly $5,000 donation by AmWaste to help upgrade and renovate the shooting range and he is appreciative of the company that is looking to collaborate with the police department and first responders. He is also looking forward to the Memorial Day event at the river and thinks it will be great for the town.
Mayor Sharp reminded folks to be careful on the river as it is used heavily, especially on holiday weekends. Sharp also asked each Alderman to have a name of a citizen at the next meeting to serve on the Bogue Chitto Landing project and function as liaisons between the project and the Town as this moves forward. He added that the Balloon Festival is May 29-31 and encourages everyone to support such events.
