Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

A lot of people in here tonight.

Get you a bigger desk, desk mayor.

I believe we're broadcasting live now, so good evening everybody and welcome to the 15 September 2026 Board of Commissioners regular meeting. I call this meeting to order. Tonight to lead us in our Pledge of Allegiance is our members of Troop 511, sponsored by St. Catherine's Church. And their Scoutmaster is with us tonight, Scoutmaster Katynski. And so if the Scouts will please come forward to the microphone and lead us in the Pledge of Allegiance.

I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

Thank you very much, Scouts. And thank you all the adult leaders that helped keep this program running. Thank you for everything that you do. Okay, so our next item is approval of the agenda. Do I have a motion to adopt the regular meeting agenda?

I'll make a motion for approval.

A second? Second. We have a second. All in favor, please say aye. Aye. Thank you. Ayes have it. The next is approval of the minutes of the August 4th, 2026 Board of Commissioners work session and the August 18th, 2026 Board of Commissioners regular meeting. Do I have a motion? I made a motion for approval.

Second.

I have a motion and a second. All in favor, please say aye. Aye. The ayes have it. Thank you very much. The first thing on our agenda tonight is presentations. And we're going to start this just a little bit different tonight. We're going to hear from JJ, Wake Forest's very own ambassador for the Pandas Awareness Month. So Miss Evelyn, please.

I love you.

I love you. Thank you. Thank you. We'll rise up, we'll rise up, we'll rise up.

We'll rise up, we'll rise up, we'll rise up. Good afternoon. How do you see them? We would have known it'd be this hard to be a kid in this world and remember all we can do.

And up. Okay.

I am still a child, don't have to chase you. Feel the world around me, I've no time to choose. I keep praying for things to change, but it seems like it'll always be there. How long I've tried. I've been through so much. Don't want to be wrong. Yeah, but I won't give up.

Oh, this is a lonely world. I am still a child. Don't get a chance.

I don't have to choose what I choose to do for me.

Aren't we? ¶ ¶ ¶ ¶ ¶ ¶ ¶

Like a small boat on the ocean Sending waves into motion Like how the sink apart I'm not lonely, I'm on my way Coming out today in a soldier And all those things I didn't say I'm wrecking balls inside my brain I'm free, I'm alive today Can you hear me?

It's my first song Take back my life song Through the morning sun I'm not gonna rest today

I still got a little bit left in me.

me is I'll be strong. I'll find my place.

This is my. I broke it down and I'm tired I'm living life on a merry-go-round. And you can't find out what it is. I see it in you, so we can walk it out. Ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh On the ocean, steady big waves, in a motion, like how a single heart can make a heart open. I might only have one match, but I can make an explosion. This is my time. I'll be strong, I'll be strong, I'll be strong And I don't really care if nobody else believes Cause I've still got a lot of fire left in me I've still got a lot of fire left in me And I still got what I had to make.

What I'd like is if all the friends and family of JJ, please come up here and join me as we read our proclamation for the pandas. Come on up. Come on. Everybody, anybody come on up here. Come on. Come on. Come on around here. Yeah. So what I want to do, though, before I read the proclamation, I want to make sure that I want to present this to JJ. It's our town coin for being our ambassador and to be our representative for Pandas Awareness. So please, please. Thank you. Come on, you guys got to get right here. The camera's all up here. Lou's going to do the best he can to get us all in here. So I'm honored tonight to read this proclamation, especially with our family and friends that are up here and everybody that's in the audience and everyone out there that's watching this. So... Please bear with me. A proclamation recognizing October 2026 as Pandas Awareness Month in the town of Wake Forest, North Carolina. Whereas pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders associated with streptococcal infections, better known as pandas, is often assumed to be rare, when in truth, it is simply rarely diagnosed. And whereas PANDAS describes a subset of children who experience obsessive compulsive disorder and or tic disorders such as Tourette's syndromes with symptoms that worsen following a streptococcal infection such as throat or scarlet fever. And whereas awareness of PANDAS within the medical community remains limited. affected children are often misdiagnosed and treatment is delayed and the treatments that are available are frequently costly and not covered by insurance and whereas JJ Wilson lives with this debilitating condition and his courage in facing its daily challenges continues to inspire the Wake Forest community and whereas JJ's parents worked tirelessly to give the care support and opportunity opportunities he needs to live a full and joyful life and whereas the town of wake forest is committed to raising awareness of pandas so that children affected by this condition are diagnosed earlier treated more effectively and supported by their community now therefore I, Ben Clapsaddle, Mayor of the Town of Wake Forest, and the Board of Commissioners do hereby proclaim October 2026 as Pandas Month in the Town of Wake Forest. And we urge all citizens to become aware of the debilitating condition for children and work to make it more readily recognized by the medical profession and insurance providers this 15th day of September, 2026. Thank you, JJ.

Thank you so much. Thank you so much. Oh, sorry. Hey. Hey, Jay. Hey, Jay. Hey, Jay. Hey, Jay.

Hey, Jay.

Hey, Jay. Hey, Jay. Hey, Jay. Hey, Jay. Hey, Jay. Hey, Jay. Hey, Jay. Hey, Jay. Hey, Jay. Hey, Jay. Hey, Jay. Hey, Jay. Hey, Jay. Hey, Jay. Hey, Jay. Hey, Jay. Hey, Jay. Hey, Jay. Hey, Jay. Hey, Jay. Thank you.

Thank you so much.

So following our agenda tonight, we had a proclamation recognizing the Constitution Week. And that was given to the General Moore chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution earlier today at their meeting. But now our next proclamation is Ms. Dolores Carmana. Is she here tonight? Here we go. Did I say it right? I apologize. Okay. And this is our proclamation recognizing national Hispanic historic month. And if it's okay, I'm going to read the English version. Okay. Thank you. But I'll give you both. Proclamation recognizing September as Hispanic Heritage Month. Whereas National Hispanic Heritage Month is observed annually from September 15 through October 15 to recognize and celebrate the history, culture, achievements, and lasting contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans whose heritage traces to Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America, And whereas Hispanic and Latino residents, business owners, educators, first responders, health care professionals, veterans, entrepreneurs, artists, and community leaders enrich the town of Wake Forest through their service, innovation, cultural traditions, entrepreneurial spirit, and civic engagement. And whereas the town of Wake Forest is strengthened by its diverse community, where people from many backgrounds come together to build a welcoming, inclusive, and vibrant place to live, work, and raise a family. And whereas National Hispanic Heritage Month provides an opportunity for all residents to celebrate the traditions, language, music, cuisine, and values that continue to enrich our community, while fostering greater understanding, appreciation, and unity among all who call Wake Forest home. And whereas the town of Wake Forest proudly recognizes the many contributions of Hispanics and Latino Americans and reaffirms its commitments to fostering a community where diversity is celebrated, every resident is valued, and all have the opportunity to thrive, Now, therefore, I, Ben Clapsile, Mayor of the Town of Wake Forest, on behalf of the Board of Commissioners, hereby proclaim September 15, 2026 through October 15, 2026 as National Hispanic Heritage Month in the Town of Wake Forest and encourage all residents to join in in recognizing and celebrating the many contributions and enduring legacies of Hispanic and Latino Americans. In official recognition, therefore, I fix my signature this 15th day of September, 2026. And with the help of Commissioner Danny Huck, we also have it. Actually, I read the translation. This is the original script here. So we have both here for you. Would you like to make a few comments?

I would just like to thank the town of Wake Forest for giving the Hispanic community a voice and for allowing us to be part of the community and to continue to grow as well. Thank you.

And now, I know everybody's hired to hear me talk already. So I've asked Commissioner Cross if you could help me with the National Senior Center Month. And Brian, sir, if you could.

Okay. This is a proclamation recognizing September as National Senior Center Month. Whereas senior centers serve as a vibrant community hubs that empower older adults to remain healthy, active, independent, and socially connected while enhancing their quality of life through lifelong learning, wellness opportunities, volunteerism, recreation, and meaningful engagement. and whereas this year's National Senior Center Month recognizes the invaluable role senior centers play in fostering purpose, dignity, inclusion, and community for older adults of all backgrounds while supporting healthy aging and reducing isolation, and whereas senior centers provide essential services including health and wellness programs, fitness and nutrition education arts and cultural experiences educational workshops technology assistance transportation resources volunteer opportunities and social connections that strengthen both individuals in the community as a whole and Whereas older adults continue to enrich our community through wisdom leadership volunteer service civic engagement and lifelong contributions to families neighborhoods businesses and organizations and And whereas the town of Wake Forest recognizes that investing in programs and services for older adults create stronger, healthier, and more connected communities for residents of all ages, while honoring the lifelong contributions of older adults and promoting opportunities for continued growth and engagement, And whereas during National Senior Center Month, residents are encouraged to visit the Wake Forest Senior Center for Active Aging, participate in activities and events, volunteer their time, and celebrate the positive impact the Center for Active Aging has on the lives of older adults in the community. Now, therefore, the Mayor and Board of Commissioners of the Town of Wake Forest, on behalf of the Wake Forest Center for Active Aging Department, hereby proclaim September 2026 as National Senior Center Month in the Town of Wake Forest.

It would be half the length of it if we got a few. We didn't have to say all the whereases of their force. But they told me I have to, so I've got to follow it. Now, Miss Deborah Horton? Do you want me right here first before you do that? And you have to introduce your guest to everybody. Here we go.

Thank you so much for the opportunity tonight to be here to celebrate National Arts and Education Month. I'm happy to have one of the town's greatest art teachers at Franklin Academy, Heather Dahlberg. I'm glad to have my colleagues here, April Cannon, Lou Anne, and our director. Amy, approaching back to back. And I'm Debra Horton.

you ma'am all right so here comes a couple of erases okay so sorry proclamation arts are education month september 2026 whereas all students have the right to an arts education that includes dance media arts music theater and visual arts taught by certified arts educators in partnership with community providers and whereas arts education has the power to change student lives and whereas art education is a key to reigniting students' learning in a post-COVID-19 world, and whereas arts education helps nurture healthy, inclusive communities where all points of view are respected, And whereas arts education experiences help students understand their own cultural roots and appreciate others' cultural roots and traditions, and whereas on February 25, 2026, a proclamation was signed by Governor Josh Stein for arts in our schools And whereas art education supports the social and emotional well-beings of students and fosters a more positive, safer school environment. And whereas arts education is part of the well-rounded education for every student as outlined in the Every Student Succeeds Act and in state law. Now, therefore, I, Ben Clapsaddle, mayor of the town of Wake Forest, North Carolina, and our board of commissioners do hereby proclaim September 26 as Arts Our Education Month in Wake Forest and pledges to maintain and grow our arts education programs in the 2026 school year and beyond this 15th day of September, 2026. Thank you so very much. Please. The microphone is yours.

Thank you, Mayor Clapsaddle. We are so grateful to be here tonight and to all of our esteemed commissioners and other town staff that are with us tonight. I am Deborah Horton, the program manager at the Renaissance Center. I have with me our other collaborative staff, which you have met earlier, and Ms. Dahlberg. When the town of Wake Forest demonstrates that arts are an important part of a thriving community, Students learn that their creativity and artistic abilities have value. We are not simply providing an arts experience. We are helping build confident, creative, connected young people who will become the future artists, leaders, innovators, and problem solvers in our community. Tonight I want to share with you just a few of the examples that the town has helped support our schools with. We touched 14 schools with 29 projects and programs. At Wake Forest High School, we had the much-waited-for student-led, student-designed, student-painted school mural in the main hallway. And I want to thank Mayor Clapsaddle and Commissioner Cross for joining us for the dedication of that much-waited. mural. We had musical theater performances at Wake Forest Middle School. We provided some costume sets and art supplies. And this was so incredibly important because in four years, this school had not been able to have a theater program. And so this was the first time there was great joy. There was great tears. And there was very, very happy children who got to be on stage for the first time. They began to live out a dream for that. At Wake Forest Elementary, we provided art supplies and things for their mindfulness night. At Heritage Middle School, we had a guest band teaching artists to write a musical score just for the school, conduct and play for the band performance, support choral concerts. At Wakefield High School, your help supported the performance of Mama Mia. At Wake College and Career Academy, art supplies and support for their project-based learning night. And the Renaissance Center is happily a member of their business alliance that supports the students. We also have an annual student art show at the Renaissance Center, and thank you to many of you who have attended that as well. We had 14 schools participating this last year, with 502 guests attended the public opening. We have summer stage musical theater camps, which provide not only the learning for the students, but also the productions. This year was Madagascar, was free for the community to come and have an art experience too. And now I'd like to ask our esteemed art teacher if she would share with us a little bit about how the arts and the collaboration with the town helps your work.

Good evening to the board. Good evening, Mr. Mayor. It's nice to meet all of you, and thank you for letting me be here. This is my 13th year at Franklin Academy. We moved here, my husband and I, from Colorado. And so it's been so wonderful to not only be at Franklin Academy, where the arts are extremely supported, in our community, but also to be a part of the town where the arts are supported, all the way across the board. And so the tiles that you're looking at, we've had a longstanding relationship with the Renaissance Center. If you walk into the main offices and you look up, as Deborah says, we have art from floor to ceiling. My students over the past 13 years have been creating art to look at, and it's been such a wonderful opportunity. I'm actually a theater teacher, and the fact that I can utilize my actors, I can utilize art students from our art teachers classes, I can use my theater production students. The thing that's really wonderful about that is that they get to be a part of the community. And one of the things that I think is so lacking right now is the ability for students to be an active part of the community, not just via socials or via TikTok or whatnot. So thank you for giving us the opportunity to make our students appreciate the community that they live in by contributing back to y'all. Thank you so much.

In closing, we have a reminder note for each of you that is a message from our community to support the arts. These were also shared with and made by North Carolina elected leader on Arts Day at the North Carolina Legislature. Messages and names of those who want us all to remember arts are for all. Thank you.

I'll apologize real quick. I didn't say this earlier. I'm going to make a real quick flip on the presentations. So I'm going to, and then I'll come back to our recognition of Ms. Rosemary. But I want to go ahead and do the recognition for the community planning month. And I need a planner. Come on up here. Everybody's just looking the other way. Come on, Jennifer.

All totally by surprise, I know.

But cut this. Send it to your folks and your families. And come on over here. You've got to get closer to the mics. I did bathe yesterday.

I'll get serious here. I'm sorry.

National Community Planning Month Proclamation. Whereas change is constant and affects all cities, towns, suburbs, counties, boroughs, townships, rural areas, and other places, and whereas community planning and planners can help manage this change in a way that provides better choices for how people work and live, and whereas community planning provides an opportunity for all residents to be meaningfully involved in discussions regarding the future of their community, and whereas the full benefits of planning require public officials and citizens who understand, support, and demand excellence in planning and plan implementation. And whereas the month of October is designated as National Community Planning Month throughout the United States of America and its territories, and whereas the American Planning Association and its professional institutes, the American Institute of Certified Planners, endorse National Community Planning Month as an opportunity to highlight the contributions, sound planning, and plan implementation make to the quality of our neighborhoods and environment. And whereas the celebration of our National Community Planning Month gives us the opportunity to publicly recognize the participation and dedication of the members of planning boards and other citizen planners who have contributed their time and expertise to the important improvement of the town of Wake Forest, And whereas we recognize the many valuable contributions made by the professional community of the town of Wake Forest and extend our heartfelt thanks for the continued commitment to public service by these professionals, be it resolved that the month of October 2026 is hereby designated as Community Planning Month in the town of Wake Forest in conjunction with the celebration of National Planning Month. Thank you very much. I think that was a lot of .

I think Wake Forest has one of the best planning staff in the state, if not the best. And we really appreciate all the contribution from the community in providing feedback and engagement in all of our plans and open houses. So thank you very much and look forward to continued relationships and making Wake Forest the place everyone wants to be. So thank you.

Now I have a resolution for Ms. Rosemary Pimentel. Please, your family, come on up. Bring them all. Come on up here. Somebody will film that for you if you hand it to them.

Oh, hey, okay.

You want someone to hold it for you? I know one of these guys will hold it for you. They're going to do a good turn daily. It's been a while since I've done that. Okay, well, somebody want to come on this side? Yeah, come on. We'll balance it out. How are you? You're about the cutest thing. Yes. This is Resolution 26-51, Resolution of Appreciation for the Services of Rosemary Pimentel. Whereas Rosemary was initially hired as a part-time office assistant with the town of Wake Forest in the Building Inspections Department on December 19, 2006, was recommended for promotion to full-time office assistants in parks and recreation as of January 30, 2007. It was in January 2020 when the title changed to customer service specialist. And whereas the title would once again change to administrative assistant as of July 1, 2023. You lived through a lot of changes there with us. Whereas Rosemary was so much more, with over 20 years' experience, Rosemary has served unselfishly in her capacity for the good of the town of Wake Forest. Whereas Rosemary has served with professionalism, fostering a culture of service and collaboration aligned with the town's strategic priorities and core values, and whereas Rosemary has served with distinction and grace for Wake Forest, significantly enhancing the department's level and expectation of service by always putting the customer first. And now, therefore, be it resolved by the Board of Commissioners of the Town of Wake Forest, North Carolina, that Rosemary Pimentel is hereby officially commended by this board on behalf of the citizens of Wake Forest for valuable and outstanding service rendered to the Town of Wake Forest. in this official capacity as administrative assistant to the Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resource Department. Be it further resolved that this resolution be made part of the permanent records of the Town of Wake Forest and that a copy of this resolution be presented to Ms. Rosemary Pimentel. This, the 15th day of September, 2026. You are what makes us all proud about being here at Wakeville. Thank you so much.

I would just like to thank the town of Wake Forest, and more than anything, my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, because he opened the door for me to get an employment with the town. Back then, it was my small little family, my husband, my wonderful husband, who has supported me all these years, and my daughters. I have three daughters. One of them is in Texas. She's watching. And at that time, my oldest daughter was 16 years of age, my middle daughter was 10, and my youngest daughter was about nine and a half, or nine years. And every single event, every Thanksgiving, or Boo Bash, every Easter egg hunt. They were voluntold by their mama to come and help. And they have been part of this town. I'm so grateful in that I'm not just a resident of the town of Wake Forest, but an employee. And I have just been so blessed. My coworkers, The management, everybody has been so, so good to me. My supervisor and all of my coworkers. And Candace, Candace and I actually worked together very, very beginning. But anyway, I'm just so grateful. The town has been so good to me. And I have found a better opportunity, if I may say so, and that is to be a grandmother and to watch over my grandbabies. And I am looking forward to that chapter in my life. Thank you.

Not every day you get to retire at 20 years. I'm going to put this down here a little bit, and we're going to go to our public hearings. So just bear with me a sec, please. Okay, next item on our agenda is the public clearing to receive public input on capital needs for inclusion and the five-year capital staff improvement, capital improvement plan update for FY2027 and 2032. I hereby open the public hearing. I don't see that we have anybody that signed up for this. Are you Melissa Alonzo? Alonzo? And you signed up for this one? Okay, please, come on up. I'm sorry. I just asked that you address us. You'll have three minutes. Pull the mics down just a little bit so we can broadcast you and everyone here, we can all hear you. Thank you, ma'am.

Hi, my name is Melissa Alonzo, and I'm a Wake Forest homeowner residing at 715 Durham Road. My comments included in this statement are from residents at 705, 735, and 753 Durham Road who could not attend today's meeting. Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the proposed I'm focused on the ligand mill extension that's on this plan going from 98 to stadium as part of which I guess one of the phases included in the plan. I respectfully request that a well-publicized public meeting focused specifically on this project with a clear presentation of the current design proposal. supporting traffic analysis and sufficient time for questions and answers be extended to residents. I would also appreciate access to the detailed traffic study supporting the proposed investment of more than $95 million, including how the analysis accounts for planned improvements on Capitol Boulevard. I previously requested this information but have not yet received it. The consultant who presented to the board a few months ago explained to the board that the extension would be a standard four-lane roadway on Ligon Mill, which it is, but it did not highlight the fact that the proposed configuration on Durham Road would be substantially wider. In fact, seven lanes are proposed in front of my house and of neighboring homes. That severe impact should be shown clearly and discussed with residents who are affected. Before advancing the extension, I encourage the town to coordinate with NCDOT and evaluate the alternatives that better align with the future Capitol Boulevard project. One option, which is likely already planned by NCDOT, would be to proactively extend the existing road access, which runs parallel to Capitol, in front of Lowe's. towards Durham Road and possibly the shopping center at Stadium. It would likely require some updates to the Capital 125 exit intersection, but this would improve local circulation, eliminate the need to expand Durham Road, and avoid residential acquisition impacts, preserve property values, and likely reduce costs as it avoids the need for the expensive proposed bridge. If the Ligon Mill extension proceeds regardless of the opposition feedback given by town residents, I ask that the design minimize widening on Durham Road and maintain safe, practical access to existing driveways. Please consider alternatives to a signalized intersection. A turbo roundabout could maintain traffic at a lower speed and reduce queues for Durham Road residential properties. A lighted intersection would cause dangerous traffic backups and create an egress safety hazard for Durham Road residents. Additional design measures such as large driveway aprons would also reduce residents enter and exit their properties more safely at greater speeds, thus reducing the speed of moving traffic. Connecting the sidewalk on Durham Road is important. In summary, transparent public engagement, release of the supporting traffic analysis, serious evaluation of an NCDOT-aligned capital access road alternative, and design that limits impact on Durham Road residents. Thank you.

Thank you, ma'am. We have no other speakers signed up for the public hearing on the five-year capital improvement plan. I hereby close the public hearing.

I didn't sign up to speak, but I completely support what Melissa said, and I'm one of the residents that is on Durham Road.

Okay, thank you, ma'am.

And at this time right now, my child, an 8-year-old, they catch the bus at the end of our driveway right there on Durham Road, and I can't imagine that being expanded to three or four.

I think it might be better if you just approach the microphone, if I'm doing this correctly. So just come on up and approach the microphone, and we'll give you a couple of minutes here, because you said a lot of good things, and we just want to make sure that...

Sorry, I didn't sign up, so I appreciate you letting me speak.

Please state your name and just...

I'm Kimberly Scott, and I live at 735 Durham Road. I've been there for about a year now, and I have two small children, and... We have about 2 and 1 half acres right there off of Durham Road. And right now, I've already seen some issues with my daughter getting on the school bus in the morning. She's eight years old. The bus comes the opposite direction of where the door would open on the side of the street where she is. There are cars that fly by constantly right now. And I have to stand out in the road and then have my daughter walk out, because it looks like people may or may not obey the school bus concerns. So I can't imagine having a larger road there and having children having to catch the school bus, as well as residents trying to get out to go to work, go to school, and do the things that they need to do as well. So I support what Melissa said and would love to have some more transparency.

Thank you very much.

Thank you.

Anyone else wish to speak on this public hearing? Please state your name. Pull the microphones down a little bit. Yeah, you go. Please state your name and then

Margaret Watkins, 407 Belmel and Court. The flashing pedestrian crosswalks, highly support those. The parking deck, that is a terrible location off South White Street. It's a waste of South White Street to put a parking deck there. I've been saying this for like five years. The wayfinding, I would suggest that we allow the public to weigh in before we spend any more money on that, because By the underpass, that didn't go over with the public too well. The motorcycle replacement. We're going to need more officers to see them, the public is, before we purchase another motorcycle because that hasn't gone over well with the public. The underground power lines, love those. The bucket truck and whatever else Wake Forest Power wants, give them whatever they want. The mobile command center, those are extremely useful in an emergency. I don't support spending any more money on drones. There's some controversy there, but I'm going to get with Chief Early to talk about that. And then Station 6, whatever that means. I think that was on the CIP. But other than that, I'm good. Thank you.

Thank you, ma'am. Any other speakers at this time? Again, I will now close the public hearing on the five-year capital improvement plan, update for FY27 and 2032, and open the public hearing on the contiguous annexation submitted by the property owner, Town of Wake Forest, located at 0 Devon Square Boulevard, being Wake County PIN 1841281942, being approximately 8.25 acres. do not have anyone that has signed up for that public hearing then I open up there's any comments for anyone that wishes to address the board on this issue okay thank you very much and we will close the public hearing on the the Wake County pin one eight four one two eight one nine four two at this time And open the public hearing on the wake forest comprehensive transportation plan, 2026 amendments. And again, I don't have anyone signed up for this public hearing. Do I have any comments or anybody that would like to address the board on this issue? No. Thank you very much. And we will close a public hearing on the Wake Forest Comprehensive Transportation Plan 2026. And we will now go into public comment. I will ask that every member that comes forward on the public comment, and I'll try to get them in order here. Ask everybody to address the board. Do not address any individual. Try to please keep everything polite as best we can. I also ask that three minutes and the board, you cut it to three minutes. The timer will go off when your three minutes are up. And I ask everyone to not expect the board to make any comments referenced back to you. We will be taking notes and so forth. I've got a list here, and what I want to start with is the first public comment speaker is Mr. Tripp Black.

Commissioner. Mayor, I'm sorry. Mayor. Ms. Trotter.

I'm going to put Ms. Trotter back into the order. Try to keep it somewhat so we're not skipping around from subject to subject on it, but based upon what their input they gave me. If I'm doing it wrong, tell me. No, that's fine. Okay. Thank you.

Good evening, Commissioners and Mayor. My name is Tripp Black, 520 South Main, Wake Forest. It's good to be with you again. My presentation is on the Constitution of North Carolina, 1868 for Constitution Week. A lot of focus is always on the federal level, but I think it's important that we also look at the North Carolina level. I chose the 1868 one because it's the first one after our reunification with the United States. Historically, our state-level identification has been far more important to us than the federal level. They're closer to the people, is the way our founders would say it. And according to our federal framers of our government, a properly functioning federal government being far removed would not even be noticeable in our daily lives. Our preamble of this Constitution, this says, we the people of the United States, grateful for almighty God, sovereign ruler of nations for the preservation of the American Union. It's very similar to the federal level. It calls for our thankfulness to Almighty God that he may keep us and for our continued zest that we might remember our dependence on him and his blessings so that we can individually and collectively grow and pass on to our posterity, our children, this great state and our town of Wake Forest. I'm going to go through some of Article 1. There's 100 pages or so in this document, so obviously there's no time to go through all of them. So I'm just going to pick a few. Like at the federal level, all rights come from our sovereign ruler, Almighty God, and among them are life, liberty, property, which is the fruits of our labor, and the pursuit of happiness. No person or entity has any right to take any of them from us, and what we individually make and create are ours individually, and we shall have the enjoyments of the fruits of our labor without anyone taking them from us. Section 2 reminds us that the power comes from the people and that the government's purpose is to make sure that nothing inhibits our individual ability for life, liberty, the ownership of property, happiness, and the worship of our Creator, however we see fit. Article 3 It is our duty to actually feed back into this system. We have a responsibility to steward our self-government because we are actually supposed to be the leaders, and our servant leaders are supposed to be the ones who have the responsibility of carrying out what we want. Note we have the ability to abolish any corrupt government whose leaders no longer do our will, who resist our freedoms, and who rob and destroy our life, liberty, or property. our happiness and or ability to worship our Creator. And we have the responsibility to reestablish a government. Section 15, skipping to there, is very similar to the Ritzvah that are general warrants, that are unconstitutional and unlawful, where we can be apprehended or placed in a bulk search. And any of those kind of things are prohibited. Section 22. SPEAKER 2. Sir, I'd like you to please, your time is up. SPEAKER 1. OK. Thank you. And our political rights and privileges are not based on how much we own and that we have no property qualifications as well. Thank you. SPEAKER 2. Thank you, sir.

Our next speaker, public comments, is Miss Abby Black.

Mr. Mayor and Commissioners, good evening. As you know, I'm Abby Black. I live at 520 South Main Street. This is Constitution Week, established by 36 U.S. Code 106. I come before you tonight to highlight the good news that the United States Constitution is still the world's longest continually running Constitution. 250 years ago, 56 courageous men from all walks of life signed their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor to declare independence from Great Britain. Many of them sacrificed their lives, wealth, prosperity, and families for the chance of a better future for all generations. For example, the British destroyed Francis Lewis's home, and his wife died from complications while in British custody. William Floyd's home was seized by the British and used as their headquarters. Colonel Thomas Nelson Jr. exhausted his personal wealth funding the Virginia militia and ordered his artillery to fire on his own house because it was being occupied by the British. The 13th Colony's Declaration of Independence was followed by five years of bitter war against an enemy that outmatched us in every way. However, through persistence, cunning, and several miracles, the efforts of George Washington, his armies, and spy James Armistead led to the Battle of Yorktown and subsequent surrender of British General Cornwallis. Americans established the Articles of Confederation to unite the colonies. It quickly became apparent that the Articles failed to address federal, state, and citizen concerns, from unenforceable taxes to pay off the war debts, to civil unrest and current colonies fighting over land claims. The Constitution was presented in 1787 and ratified by the colonies the following year. The worldwide average lifespan of a constitution is 17 years. Ours is 238 years old. The US Constitution established a government with three distinct branches. The legislative branch consists of the House and Senate, wherein the House represents the population of states, and the Senate once represented the state legislatures themselves for equality between citizens and states. The executive branch deals primarily with foreign diplomacy and managing federal departments. The judicial branch contains the Supreme Court, who render opinions on laws that cannot legislate from the bench. Attached to the Constitution is the Bill of Rights. Founder George Mason and his coalition refused to sign the Constitution until they were promised the Bill of Rights would be included, as they feared the government would have too much power. Once established, Congress actually fulfilled that promise. The Bill of Rights exists not for government to give people their rights, but to guard the people's rights. As we continue celebrating America's 250th anniversary through next July, the Constitution's 238th birthday, I encourage everyone to join me in studying, asserting, and defending the Constitution. In the words of founder Benjamin Franklin, I agree to this Constitution because I think a general government necessary for us. And there is no form of government that may be a blessing to people if well administered. This is likely to be well administered for the course of years. I am almost done. It can only end in despotism when the people shall become so corrupted as to need a despotic government being incapable of any other. And as Franklin also said, we have a republic if we can keep it. Thank you for your sworn oath to support the Constitution. And thank you for your time.

Thank you, ma'am. Our next speaker is Bailey de Barmore. Did I say that right? The same thing, ma'am, if you could just adjust the mics down a little bit, and then just state your name, and then please.

Hi. My name is Bailey DeBarmore. I am one of the organizers of the first Wake Forest really free market. The idea of it is to bring what you can and take what you need. These markets have already been happening regularly throughout the Triangle, including monthly events in Raleigh, Durham, and similar markets in communities like Carrboro, Cary, Hillsborough, and Clayton. We're excited to bring that same idea here to Wake Forest. On Saturday, October 3rd, from 10 a.m. to noon, we'll be gathering outdoors at Olive Branch Baptist Church for a community event where everything is completely free. You don't need to bring something in order to take something. Someone might bring clothes that their children have outgrown, books they're finished with, house plants, other items, toys, craft supplies, tools, and someone else might find exactly what they need. People can also share skills, services, information, creativity, and time with their neighbors. We already have several community members and organizations participating. There will be hand mending and darning, music, information about voter registration and repair, as well as people from the tri-area ministry and NC interfaith cash bail reform. We're still looking for people who may have something that they'd like to share with the community, such as offering simple haircuts, reviewing resumes, making basic bike repairs, repairing small items, sharpening tools, or teaching a craft or other skills. We're also interested in additional creative contributions and performances, including musicians, youth music performances, spoken word poetry, storytelling, or other family-friendly ways that people would like to share their talents with their neighbors. The market is free to attend, and there is no need to register or sign up. If you do bring useful items to share, please also bring a blanket, towel, or tarp to display them on while you enjoy the market. When you leave, please take any of your items that were not taken by your neighbors with you. For those who would like to provide a service, activity, or performance, we are helping to coordinate things like tables, chairs, and shade. So we ask that you contact us in advance if possible. We also have flyers available in English and Spanish if you would like to distribute them within your group. You can reach us through the form on our website at wfreallyfreemarket.card.co or by email at wakeforestindivisible at gmail.com. We hope this first market can be the beginning of something that our community continues to build together. Thank you.

Thank you. Our next speaker is Miss Joni Falvey.

Thank you. Good evening, mayor, commissioners, town staff. I am Joni Falvey. I am a Wake Forest resident at 1153 Woodland Grove Way, as well as a downtown building owner at 223 and 225 South White Street, as well as a business owner, Broad Sides & Brews. And I am here tonight to discuss the upcoming decision regarding Friday Night on White. I am here basically to ask you to take time considering changes. I'm not here to say that it is a perfect event, that changes don't need to be made. I believe that with any event, growth creates a need for reassessing how things are done and looking into very specific issues that may arise. However, I also think that ultimately making a rash decision or a rushed decision based on broad information without discussing truly what the individual issues are and without coming up with multiple options that might help create a way to keep a beloved event going that has brought community together, has brought people to downtown who may not have ever come, and that is already budgeted for 2027, just seems a little rash. I would like to say that in addition to that, We all know that Wake Forest has been part of some fun media storms of late, and we don't want to create any additional reason for the media to attack our wonderful town. especially since we've been named the best event in the triangle. So I am just asking that everything is considered with detail before a decision is made to cut or make changes to an event that is already planned and budgeted for the 2027 season. Thank you.

Thank you, ma'am. Our next speaker is Brian Falvey.

Mr. Mayor and commissioners, my name is Brian Falvey of 1153 Woodland Grove Way, also owner of building 223-225 South White Street. Really, I can't say it any better than Ms. Joni did. So I'll just share my sentiment saying I believe that There are good reasons to review and continue to evolve the events that we have downtown. I believe that it may be premature at this point to make decisions on the information that we have. And I think it's important that we gather more information before making decisions on such a large, scoped event that impacts our community and also is beloved by many. There's a lot of polarizing sides to this story, but I think that creative solutions, we can come together and develop creative solutions here. So I'll concede the rest of my time. I think Johnny put it well. Just looking for a consideration of Let's have more information. Let's look at more solutions, opportunities for solutions. Let's look at financial impact. Let's look at ways that we can support all the businesses in our community. Let's look at options for staff and what we can do, all good concerns that were raised. Let's take that and review it further. Thank you.

Thank you, sir. Our next speaker is Miss Johanna Trotter. I'm sorry. I really have to bring this down.

My name is Joanna Trotter, and I own Next Consignment Boutique, located at 210 South White Street. We are a 28-year-old business. 18 of our years have been downtown. I have recently leased 150 South White Street and will be operating both locations in order to give us more room. I am a passionate stakeholder in the success of downtown. I bought Next Consignment one month before the first Friday night on White. It was clear to me from day one what a golden opportunity these events were for my business. There is nothing I can do on my own that would expose next to thousands of potential customers at one time. My business philosophy is if an event generates traffic, it is our job to make the most of it. We work hard to connect with people who attend any event. If they don't want to buy from us or don't come back again, that's solely our fault. Friday night on White has meant greatly increased sales the day of each event. During the set-up hours, our customers understand they will have to park further away, and they make that effort to get to us. We make every event our party as well, with special sales, complimentary snacks, wine, and cold water. Four years ago, there was some issue with unsupervised kids. Kids have learned that if they behave well, they may use our bathroom, enjoy our air conditioning, and have snacks. They only have to be told once. We welcome them. In return, they must know that they must behave. We have very little shoplifting. I think it is because we are well staffed with adults, that's really important, and we engage with visitors. Town staff do a great job setting up and managing these events. I'm sympathetic to the effort it takes to do this. I would not like to know that I'm benefiting from undue hours and stress being put on the staff. It has occurred to me that as a beneficiary of Friday Night in White, I should be a sponsor so more staffing could be added. I'm a little embarrassed that I did not think that before now. I feel the public should be able to weigh in on how Friday night should go forward. To accomplish an understanding of the public point of view, I started a petition and sent it out last week, gathering signatures and asking for opinions. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, and I have that if you'd like to have it. It is my observation that the public is already voting their positive support of the events by attending. We have many customers who attend every event faithfully, rain or shine. Thank you for allowing me this opportunity to speak. Bringing value and success to downtown is very important to me.

Thank you, ma'am. If you want to hand your survey over, just please hand it to Ms. Evelyn. Thank you. And our next speaker is Mr. Will Haddock.

Good evening, Mr. Mayor. Board of Commissioners, esteemed town guys in the back, how's it going? It might shock you, but I'm here to talk about Friday Night in White and my opinions on it. I had a really nice speech, and these guys said it way better than I possibly can. So I would just like to reiterate, maybe the decision doesn't have to happen tonight. We got a lot going on, and there is No more sympathy than I have for the amount of work that goes in. The town and the people that work here are some of the most dedicated people that I've ever worked with in my life. I've had the opportunity to work with them on every single Friday Night in White. We haven't missed one yet. And it is hard, and it is hot, and it is work worth doing, because we get to serve the community of Wake Forest. I've been on Lake Street for 14 years. I remember what it was like. Before we had events like this, I remember being in the downtown merchants meetings when everyone would just beg the town to help them. Put a billboard out on Capitol. That was the only thing they could come up with. Like, get people to come downtown. And now we have this incredible event that's won awards, that's brought 8,000 people on a slow night six times a year to our town. It's made economic impact. It's made a vitalization impact. And it's all the benefits that we also don't know. How many realtors have pitched their people coming into Wake Forest going, don't forget, there's this event that happens six times a year. We don't get to see that, but we get to feel it in our town and be proud about that. I'll leave it there. How about that? I really like Friday Night in White. I think it's really important, not just to me as a business owner, not just to me as a citizen, but I think it's truly important to this town and its vitality. And if changes have to be made, let's not do it tonight. Let's work together. Don't go for the easy way of just cutting off events. Maybe they can be reshaped. Maybe they can be moved into other months. I get it's hot. It's really hot in the summer. I'm on top of those refrigerated trucks at 7 AM. It is a hot event. And it's worth it when people come out. And if it wasn't working, no one would come. I promise you. People would go to Franklin, people would go to Youngsville. But they're coming here. They're staying in our town. They're giving their dollars to our businesses. And they're treating each other like a community. And I think that's probably the most success we can have. Thank you, guys. Have a lovely evening.

Thank you, sir. Before I close the public comment, is there anyone else that would like to address the board on any topic? I'm going to ask you to lower the mics.

Sure, people. Margaret Watkins. I appreciate the business owners coming out and talking about Friday nights on White. But after the week I've had, I honestly can't see going against the town employees. Asking a town employee to work 19 and 1 half hours, that's a long day. That's mentally and physically exhausting. I don't think that I can do that at my age. And I know that there are some town staff that are older than me. That, to me, isn't fair. It's not fair to ask them to do that. What Ms. Hubert proposed, in my opinion, was a compromise, and a compromise between the businesses that hurt from it and the businesses that thrive off of it. Um, maybe there's a possibility to do something smaller somewhere else, um, during other months, but I can't see you guys going against the town staff. If they're our greatest assets, we need to listen to them. And has anybody even done a survey? Has anybody surveyed the staff? Probably not. I suggest you guys not only survey them, but you guys physically get out there and you have conversations with them. Because some employees don't feel comfortable answering these surveys honestly. And you need to go out, you need to talk to them in person. If you do vote in favor of this thing, though, I do suggest that Wright handle the rest of the sponsorships, because he loves it and I think he would be the best salesman to take care of the additional employees. Everything else, I'm a little too angry to talk about as of right now. Thank you.

Thank you. Are there any other comments? At this time, I close the public comments portion of this evening. And we will move to the consent agenda. The consent items are in front of you. And as we know, it's a group item passed with a single motion to vote. If there's any matter, the routine matters, but if there's anything that you, Commissioner, wish to have it removed, we will remove it from the consent agenda. Do I have a motion?

Motion to approve the consent agenda.

Second. I have a motion and a second. All in favor of approving the consent agenda, please signify by saying aye. Aye. The ayes have it. Thank you very much. Now we'll move into our legislative, I'm sorry, our planning items. And our first item with Mr. Tim Richards, is Tim with us tonight? Consideration of a contiguous annexation submitted by property owner of the town located at 0 Devon Square Boulevard being Wake County pin is approximately 8.25 acres. Do I have, Jennifer, does anybody wants to cover? Okay. Discussion or motion? Make a motion for approval.

Second.

I have a motion and a second. All in favor, please say aye.

Aye.

It's passed unanimously. Thank you. Our next one is a consideration of the Wake Forest Comprehensive Transportation Plan 2026 amendments. I believe Brad's still here. Do you have any questions for Brad on this? Any comments or a motion from the board? Making a motion for approval. Second. I have a motion and a second. All in favor, please signify saying aye.

Aye.

Aye. It's unanimous. Thank you very much. And then our next items, and correct me if I ever go astray, Ms. Evelyn or Mr. Kipp, is to... update on South Franklin Street through holding village and Miss Emily is a Hennessey's here to to talk us through this Now you're gonna have to adjust the mics, but thank you Good evening mayor members of the board.

My name is Emily Hennessey. I'm a senior civil engineer in the engineering department Let me pull up Can you folks see that?

OK.

I wanted to talk a little bit about South Franklin Street, go over some background, and talk about staff's approach to addressing some concerns that we've heard from the community, and then ask the board if they have any advice or comments on staff's approach. So a little bit of background on this. What you're looking at right now is the approved master plan from 2007 for Holding Village. This route and alignment of South Franklin Street has been planned for quite some time. It's been set that way for about 19 years. Construction on Holding Village has been active since about 2012, per one of our inspectors that I asked this afternoon. A little bit of context. South Franklin Street connects NC 98 bypass, so Dr. Calvin Jones Highway, in the north to Rogers Road in the south. It's classified in our comprehensive transportation plan as a minor thoroughfare. So it's expected to carry a little bit more than a local road, a little bit more than a collector, but less than a freeway or major thoroughfare. A little bit of context on this area. The portion of South Franklin Street which is split north of Artisan Park Drive, which is this little loop drive here, is currently signed for 25 miles per hour. The west side of it has a multi-use path, which is intended for use by pedestrians and bicyclists. The east side has sidewalks, and that's consistent throughout South Franklin Street. South of Artisan Park Drive, It is signed for 35 miles per hour. The context of the road changes a little bit. There's a raised median that separates the two lanes of traffic going in each direction. This portion of the road was subject to a developer in town teamed up project in which we advocated for some betterments and to make sure that the eventual road section matched the section that was called for in the comprehensive transportation plan. That project wrapped up somewhat recently. There were traffic cones out there for quite some time. They should be gone now. And now the road is functioning as it was designed to do. Prior to July of this year, the northern split section of South Franklin Street was still unaccepted by the town and was still under developer control because of active construction during that time. And since then, we have heard a lot of concerns about safety, mainly focused on speeding. Prior to the town's ability to make changes in the right of way, I believe there was a meeting at one point with the developer, and a couple of striping changes were made to try to curtail some of those concerns and nip that in the bud a little bit earlier. Since July, when the town has accepted the road into town maintenance, staff has gone on. I went out with a couple members of my team. We walked the whole area and came up with some recommendations for signs and striping. There are quite a few, and we're working with Public Works to get that installed in the next couple months. Another element that we'd like to ask the board to consider is that the portion of South Franklin Street from Artisan Park Drive to Heritage Greens Drive is signed for 35 miles per hour right now. And staff would like to advance with bumping that down to 25. That portion is kind of a transitional portion where you go from having four lanes with a full race median to the median is flat it's just paint and it's transitioning into that more dense portion of south franklin street to the north where it splits and we feel it would provide greater greater driver context entering that dense portion to have them slow down a little bit sooner so i have more information but i just wanted to put out the basics and ask the board if they have any comments

I have some comments on this, yes. I've gotten a lot of communication from residents in Holding Village about this area. So I definitely think we need to lower the speed limit for that section. I have made many conversations with Tim about this. So can you clarify and explain why the crosswalk and the flashing lights are going at that Heritage Greens? Is that the right road? I believe so, yeah. Why you guys chose there versus where there is another crosswalk, but it does not have a flashing light at Artisan? How do you guys make that decision about where to put the flashing light?

The design for that portion was a little bit before my time with the town, so I'm not super privy to why that was selected. I think because there are fewer driveways for that development or a portion of the development in the southeast corner. And I think the idea was that that would draw more pedestrian traffic to that specific crossing, whereas Artisan Park Drive has, I think, fewer homes in that loop.

Yes. Yeah. That's what I mean. I think that's what I've heard as well, but I wanted to confirm that. And then, so there is also a path on the side that leads between those crosswalks. So you can go down on either side of the road to the lighted crosswalk, correct?

Correct. And they're only separated by about 300 feet.

Right. So that 300 feet though, the speed limit changes in there. So it would be better to have the speed limit change ahead of that 300 feet.

In staff's opinion, yeah. So Heritage Green's Drive is right about there, there and north, we think should be 25.

Okay, so would we be able to signal, I mean, are we going to be able to put adequate signs to warn people that the speed limit's dropping? Like, will we put them south of that?

We could put a speed limit change ahead warning sign in advance of the speed limit drop, yes.

OK. And then my other question is, and this was asked to me, and I don't know the answer to this. That's why I'm asking you. So that's the pool house there. And so I know that there's a lot of families going back and forth across both of those crosswalks. And the one that is at Artisan Drive does cross five lanes of traffic with no traffic. middle like space to stop no island and it can't have an island because it's a turn lane so it just can't have one um so that could could an hoa decide to install a second flashing light there as a warning can an hoa do that within a neighborhood if they have the support and the finances

I think that's on the table, yeah.

OK. And then I know that there's a Greenway path connection there, I think. Is that town Greenway running through there, or is that their neighborhood Greenway system?

Which side?

And that's on the, I received a note that there is a greenway access off Artisan. And so people will come down through there and cross at the crosswalk at Artisan. And there is a greenway connection on the other side.

If there is, I don't know it off the top of my head. I'm sorry.

OK. I can email you with the details of that. I'm just trying to figure out if there was a town greenway, or was it just the neighborhood? Some neighborhoods have their own systems of bike trails. Yeah. So I need some clarity on that. OK. I think that's all I have for right this minute. OK.

Thank you, ma'am.

Sure. Okay. Just to piggyback Commissioner Cross, her and I actually had a nice discussion about this. Definitely 100% on reducing that speed. Could you just explain to me, so I can understand, and also the citizens, like if we're doing a speed reduction, are we looking at months, weeks, years, you know, like how did that process work in regards to doing a speed reduction?

Thanks. We submit it as an agenda item. It's usually a board approval item that goes through you all. And then we can get signs out there. So 60 days?

So if they give consent tonight to go forward with that particular consent tonight to do that, then we can have it in 30 to 60 days? Is that roughly?

Believe it might have to be it's an ordinance agenda item.

I believe so. Yes Okay, great so what we can prepare that Just make sure we're right so we get this as rapidly as we can for what the commissioners have asked Thank you

and you said something about um signs are you planning to add extra signs on both the north and south part of that crosswalk intersection additional signs or what are your thoughts on that the additional signs were mostly in the section of south franklin that splits i just want drivers to have a consistent experience when they enter that

from whichever approach and we noticed some inconsistencies. Some intersections had a no left turn sign for the runway and some didn't. And I just want it to be consistent throughout for safety purposes. Also, we're going to add a couple curve warning signs for the parts that turn to let drivers know that it's going to turn pretty quickly because I think a lot of folks come in.

Because that part is 35 north of there, right?

I'm sorry, I'm talking about the northern part where it's split. That's all 25. But it is pretty, the curves are pretty tight.

Yeah, it is curvy, yeah. Because they've taken, quite a few trees have been hit by drivers, unfortunately, in that section as well. Okay, thank you.

Any other comments? Isn't that narrow curving supposed to be a speed impediment, though? Isn't that one of the subtle ways we try to slow folks down of running through these? Let me rephrase that. That is not coming out right. But like I've heard these conversations before where we talk about how to slow traffic impediments, how to kind of gradually force people to slow down. I think some neighborhoods we're seeing the little block outs where you kind of shift them. And so that narrow curb coming off of Calvin Jones Highway is intended to slow you down as you enter this residential area.

That's true. It's a little bit of a chicken or the egg, right? You can build the environment to try to be the safest environment you possibly can, which would just be straight roads all the time and a grid. Or you can try to build something that forces driver behavior into a pattern that you'd like to see. So yes, I think that was the spirit of the original design. And I think the curve warning signs will just give drivers more notice that they do need to slow down for that.

So any other comments? So the guidance, though, is to go forward in order to prepare that so the board can approve that.

Very good. Thank you.

Thank you very much, ma'am. Our next one is the Consideration 8 Bravo, Consideration of Resolution Approving Age-Friendly Community Strategic Action Plan is Miss Lisa, do we have any comments that you want to make? So comments or motions from the board?

I'd like to make a quick comment. Review the plan again. It's an 80-page plan. I really don't have major issues with the plan itself. I just want to stress again what I've said at the last meeting and what I've said to a couple of commissioners, that we need to ensure that we strengthen the involvement of younger generations, right? Because we're talking about the entire lifespan. And I just want to make sure when we're looking at this plan, the committee, and everything that encompasses not just older individuals. I'm an older individual, so I can say that. But we're also looking, and I'm not talking specifically teenagers. I'm talking about all ages. So I just wanted to make that comment in regard to the plan and moving forward.

And we had a conversation about this, that the wonderful thing about this plan is if you just did not have, I think we assume it's for older individuals because we see AARP, but it's actually all ages, all stages. That is the point. And I think it's a great opportunity for us to involve all different ages. And we talked about the different stages of life, too. There is great opportunity for tasks for task force for different groups to engage specifically over something That's of interest to them. So I think I think we will really have an opportunity with this to reach a lot of different groups and the community Any other comments

Do I have any other questions or a resolution from the board?

Motion to approve. Second.

I have a motion and a second. All in favor, please signify by saying aye. Aye. The ayes have it. The resolution is approved. Our next item, 8C, is the event recommendation for 2027 and beyond. Miss Jennifer?

All right, good evening, mayor and commissioners. This is a very short just follow up. I know that I have shared some additional information with you since our last meeting regarding staffing, regarding outside staffing and volunteers, and kind of what we have done in the past, and some additional research that I compiled. I did send out a merchant poll after the last meeting. This was the exact question on the poll. Do you support the potential reduction of Friday Night on White events from six events each year to three? We had 24 respondents. We actually had about 32, but some were duplicate with maybe two owners responding. Of course, everyone at least that was representing, multiple people representing one business at least were consistent in their response. So as you can see, 62% of those businesses, which was a total of 16 businesses, were then in favor of reducing Friday Night on White from six to three. 17% were no. That was four businesses, three of which you heard from earlier tonight during public comment. And then no opinion. I wanted to offer no opinion because sometimes my engagement with my merchants Sometimes we just don't get a response. So at least by having five people put no opinion, at least I know they saw the survey and had the opportunity to complete it. I did want to share, too, out of the, excuse me, I apologize, that number is 15 yes, not 16. The 15 yeses, five were food and beverage businesses, four were retail, three were personal service, and three were your standard commercial or office space businesses, the 15 businesses that were in favor of reduction. And before I get to the Friday Night on White recommendations, I wanted to just, I know last month, and I apologize because I may have been confused, but I felt like we had consensus on the two other items on the agenda for the combining cares and lighting to that third Saturday in November with Wake Forest Downtown being the presenter of that event, as well as the July 3rd fireworks. delaying the start time of that event from 7, pushing it back to 7 o'clock with the gates open and the entertainment starting at 7.30.

We had consent. Okay, perfect. Jen, just one thing because someone had asked me and I thought I remembered the right answer. For the tree lighting, is that going to shut down White Street like CARES did or is that going to be kept on Brooks and Owen?

The new event would use the existing Wake Forest Cares holiday kickoff footprint, which is South White Street. So we would have that footprint from Elm to Jones, and then it would be Owen. And then we would probably have a short portion, because obviously the tree is in the plaza, then we would probably have a short closure on Brooks, closer to the actual lighting time.

OK, thank you.

So again, when I was here two weeks ago, we talked about reducing the number of Friday Night on White events from six to three, really on the basis, again, of staff capacity, the heat, but also being cognizant of what I'm reading in our downtown regular Friday Night on White event surveys. And then now, of course, I've also sent out this additional survey. I know that there has been a lot of feedback, both online, internally, externally. I think you all know I admire you. You have a very tough decision, because I constantly live in a world where I feel like I cannot make everyone happy. But I did want to bring to you a compromise or another option tonight. This is because I obviously, I also spend time online reading feedback, listening to people, being cognizant of what is out there. And I will say with no compromise comes, again, there's still, it's not a perfect solution for everyone. I know initially when I had met with some of you, we had talked about, there was a question about September. I will say from a staff capacity, We don't love the idea of it being disjointed. It does pose some concerns. But I think when we initially spoke about it, we were also talking about three in one, two in one. And so after talking with key staff, including department directors of fire, police, public works, making sure that from a staffing capacity, talking with them, this is an alternative proposal that I wanted to bring, reducing it from 6 to 4 with April, May, September, October. That does still address this. For the majority, it should take care of the heat. Now, I will say, last Friday, it's 95 when I went out there at 1 o'clock. We had to call it 30 minutes early. I don't think any... I know Mayor was here still, but we had to call it 30 minutes early at the end due to lightning. Because again, when you have hot weather, you get a higher potential for pop-up thunderstorms. So again, reducing that from the six to four. I will say, I'll be very transparent, October, I think a lot of people think October is great. The one thing with October is, if you're aware, we do already currently have two community events on the calendar in October. So that would be a consequence of choosing October or figuring out what to do with that, of exploring what to do, because we already have two events on the calendar in October, and that would be a decision that if we choose to move Friday Night in White to October, then having to go back because our special event policy currently only allows two events in October. So I want to be very transparent about that.

And that's- Jen, do you mind if I stop you there? Yeah. With that, I guess the options at that point, I guess we'd be opening up in option B, we'd be opening up three events though through the summer that someone could potentially move an event into, correct?

Based on the current policy, correct. So I will say that we, so yes, because right now in June there is already another event, a street closure downtown for the Cars and Carnivores that's hosted by the Rotary Club. July and August do not have external events.

But we could move, again, that opens up a slot potentially for events. Correct. And I guess this may be more of a town attorney question, but if we do move it to October and, you know, we're not able to, I guess, accommodate the moving of any of those, is there a situation in which we can, I guess, waive the ordinance for that? Or is that something that, you know, to allow for three street closures, can we do that?

That sounds familiar from the special events policy. I could check and let you know in a couple minutes. Awesome. Thank you.

But it's almost one of those, just my thought on that, on this recommendation, just throwing this out there, that it's the consideration of moving anything. Right now is really there's a ripple effect Whether it's an ordinance that has to be changed whether it's an organization that already has plans going into you know next summer spring or whatever so there is a critical timeline of For not only us as a town, but for everyone else with the special events or our Organizations, you know like the cars and carnivores, you know anything like that that our charity of us that that we help and So all I'm throwing out there is saying is that it is some very serious considerations that we have to make. And I'm not saying this is a bad option. I'm just saying that is a ripple effect that we need to take in consideration. But we're on a timeline, and I've been advised on that. We are on a timeline based upon contracts, based upon, and again, I said this last time, something as simple as publishing a calendar and the needs and the things that that calendar does to tell our story and to help people in our town. So I just throw that out for consideration for you guys.

Thank you.

I know I cut you off, but if you're still on a roll, then I can, because I know the commissioners, if they have questions or comments, they, you know, please.

That's it. That's all I have. So if you have other questions.

OK, so first of all, Jennifer, thank you. I mean, I've called you. I've probably bugged you, probably not as much as others. But I appreciate this opportunity. I appreciate coming in with another option. understanding that, you know, again, very appreciative of the town staff. I know Commissioner Shackelford said last month that, you know, once you become a commissioner or you become really involved with, you know, Friday Night White, you don't really realize all the individuals that are really involved in this event. So I just wanted to say thank you for bringing this option because, you know, to me, you Definitely, there are a lot of tough decisions to make. To me, this one is definitely one that's high up there, because I know the impact that it will have on individuals, businesses, and not just the town of Wake Forest, but also people who come to our events. So I just wanted to make that comment for now. Thank you.

I have a question for you. What made you guys, with the options that you offered, do April, May, September, October versus like May, June, September, October? Like what was the decision-making process in that?

weather well i mean honestly whether um this year june july june was 99 july was 97 august and september were both 95. i mean again there's i i can definitely look back on record and show you august some august probably that was i know not august but yeah yeah june versus april i was just curious just

Curious about how you made that decision.

Well, and I think, too, knowing that we already have cars and carnivores in June, I think trying to just avoid, because June this year was the hottest one out of the entire summer, which, again, is not the norm. But this year it was. And I think that's one thing for us, I will say, For me, I'm personally allowed to wear a T-shirt and wear a skort or shorts. Our men in uniform, unfortunately, they probably have 15 to 16 pounds extra of heat on them. And so I think that was just really trying to look at that. And then also, again, I will be... Completely transparent that I don't know when we talk about, for the merchants, picking dates. I mean, again, my guess is if you were to go to each individual person and say, what are your preferred dates, you're going to get everything under the sun. Historically, through the years when we've held this event, Especially in September, people always say, why don't you do one in October? I saw today some comments, why don't you do one in November? I will say, our first year of CARES, we tried to do an evening concert in November. It gets cold in November. When it gets dark at 5 o'clock, people cleared out. And so, again, that was one thing. I will also say, I think, too, that April, May, September, and October, children are in school, theoretically. And so not that that could impact, but we know we have an issue with some of our unsupervised teens. Attendance the other night, teen attendance did not seem to be an issue. I mean, again, you're always going to have teens. You have parents who come with their teens and give them some free roam to allow them to grow. But I think it's not as bad when school is in session, especially when there's activities at the schools, like football games.

So, just to, so, and this has been something, I think we talked a little bit about this when I met with y'all. So, as we grow in the downtown area, I feel like full street closures are going to be more and more challenging in general, right? So, right now we're limited to two. Correct. And going to more than that would negatively, I would assume it would negatively impact businesses. Is that an accurate statement?

I feel like it is inaccurate. And I will share. Right now, honestly, besides town events and besides the chamber meeting the street, nothing is closing South White Street. I will share, though, that one of the issues that we have, and I know it's even been a suggestion from people move it off White Street. Well, the challenge that they're forgetting is if you don't close White Street, then all people are going to do is park on South White Street. And so I think there are a few merchants now that I get that complaint from. Regardless of the event, people are coming downtown. They're parking. You can try to control people to the best of your ability. We get complaints all the time from our friends at Renaissance Center Plaza because we have signs that say no event parking. There's a QR code to tell them where they can park. They're constantly having to run off. And so for me, They know it's not us. They know it's not the town. But it's still a frustration for them. And I think we would find ourselves in a similar situation that even if we said, other people, we're not going to allow anything on South White Street, again, you're addressing one issue, but you're creating another.

Yeah. And I mean, when we think about the streets that are available and the businesses that are going to be impacted, I mean, we really can't close the streets more. It's not any of them. We just have to. That may even get harder as time goes on.

Yes, as we have more development downtown and projects.

Yes, we have residences and we have other businesses. I mean, I'm looking a little further down. At some point, we have to address the street closures by anyone other than us moving forward. Okay, thank you for explaining why you picked the dates.

I just have a comment. Thank you for the compromise. If we're going to reduce it, I do like it going from 6 to 4 opposed to 3. That said, though, I still think there needs to be a conversation. If we do move forward with some sort of reduction in 2027, I would like to see a more in-depth conversation with the business owners, because really that's where the issue is, right? The community at large loves it, at least the people that attend it, and we know there's a lot of people that attend it. but to me it becomes that conversation dance with our downtown businesses because some are affected negatively some thrive and so we got to find that happy medium and I think there probably is some conversation there are some conversations that can still be had amongst our business owners because each business owner has a different set of issues I think with this event be it positive or negative and um and fortunately we don't have a raleigh downtown we got hundreds we have tens you know of or a score maybe even um a business owner so i think we can have a better conversation and find even more compromise um i love six but we have some real issues i mean we have some real issues that we can't ignore So I would like to see us take at least a year to really have those conversations because I think they need to be had. I really do. I think somewhere our business owners collectively also have conversations because, you know, some are thriving, like I said, and others are like, nobody listens to me. I don't get any kind of... you know, business from it, and it shuts down my business and, you know, everything else. So we need to have that conversation. It needs to be a lot of listening, a lot more listening, I think, too. So I'd like to see that. If we do reduce it, I'd like to see us take advantage of this next year and start planning for 2028 and start to find more compromise and maybe how we can improve this. If we can manage to get it back to six, if that's where we go, then I would love to see that.

Can I ask, I'm sorry, Commissioner Wright?

Yeah, I was going to second that. commissioner shepherd myself had a nice long conversation this past weekend uh... and i think that's kind of work where we can landed on it uh... uh... i'll support option b uh... i think that uh... a good compromise uh... with the exception that i'd like to say that i'd like to see a conversation keep continuing pat be had uh... and at i think you make a valid point about involving the business owners but also like Look at staffing. We don't want to tax y'all any more than we have to. Can you confirm or deny, like is somebody really working 19 and a half hours? Is that a real thing?

It is possible, not from my staff, but I mean, public works and facilities and power, a lot of them, they're working their normal shift. Their shift could start as early as 5, 5.30, 6. So most of them are working a full eight-hour shift before they come here. Maybe not 19, but probably definitely 16 or 17. So yes, that is correct.

And so however we can, you know, I did a post today. I know you either love or hate it, but... I think it was a lot of good feedback in there. And I do think there are people willing to help with volunteers if that's getting out here and cleaning up and stuff like that. Not necessarily from a security standpoint, but there are opportunities. So I'd like to explore that moving forward in the next year and everything. Not for this coming year, but for 2028.

You can organize the volunteers.

Sure. By all means. I'll take on whatever I can. Can I? Go ahead, Commissioner.

I was just going to, I guess, third what Commissioners Wright and Shackelford said. I'm on board with option B as well at this point, again, understanding what we can or can't do in October. As far as accommodating, you know, obviously something we'll displace next year. But yeah, I think it's great. It takes care of the heat problem for the most part. But again, I will stress along with my colleagues, we need to have, we need to start having the conversation for 28 sooner rather than later. I don't know if it's a conversation at the retreat, because obviously this is such a big issue with a lot of impacts. you know our citizens the street closures to event policy to business owners I mean there's a lot that kind of goes into this so maybe it becomes a topic at the retreat but yeah for the most part I'm pretty much on board with with option B that you're bringing up so I appreciate you bringing that forward can I just offer something because I'm listening to the as this is going so the first part of this is is to ask the town manager

to form commission, committee, whatever we want to call this, to make recommendations for Friday Night on White from 28 forward. Just one second. But that way we get in everything that you're talking about to bring in that business owners to bring in all the players key players to come in and talk about twenty eight forward and and the reason why i say twenty eight ford is because there are other things that we have to start taking in consideration uh... commissioner cross brought that in is because we have something as simple as the uh... the s-line coming and the construction that's going to or or even destruction on parts of downtown that is going to do for a several year period until you know we then have a nice down a better downtown so that to take that in consideration but that would be instruction uh to the uh the town manager uh the other one is that whatever it is whether it's april may june whatever we do for 2027, that, you know, I'm a favor of the month of July, as I've said to a lot of you individually, is that because of the things that we do for the 4th of July and our celebration there, and if you look at our calendar, it's all back-to-back within a week. So that we do anything, we take July off the calendar. And that we continue with our schedule for 27 as it is, And that but then we have this again. That's just a thought here So we removed July off the calendar. So we technically go down to two five and then based upon the recommendations that come, whether it's at the retreat or at the time that the manager brings us back, that we lay out 28 and beyond. Because there are second and third order effects that we may not be prepared for right now if we just arbitrarily say October. that we have to consider that, and then we have to move things. Whether those events move to the left or right, I don't know. But I just think, like Commissioner Shackelford said, we just need to have, and Commissioner Wright said, all of you did, that we just have a little bit more insight into those things. Does that make sense? I know I rattled there for a bit, but I throw that out there for you guys' discussion.

Do we need a motion on this? Or is it just a consensus again?

Before we do that, I have a question. Maybe I'm just not understanding because I'm all the way over here. But the way I understood it is the recommendation was to do potentially option B in 2027. Is that what we're talking about, or are we talking about something totally different?

Well, we didn't have a recommendation or a request for consent we're just discussing right now. That's why mine is just for, again, as we're conversating on this. I just ask that we make either consent or something tonight because of requirements that we have to do in the future, near-term future for contracts and so forth like that.

So just to make sure I'm on the same page, is that we're looking, I'm sorry, we're conversing about these options for 2027 with having an in-depth conversation potentially, as Commissioner Sawinski said, at the retreat or somewhere, so that way we can look forward to what Friday night on White will look like in the future.

28 and ball.

Yes. Okay. 28 and ball. Thank you.

That's what that conversation would be, and whether... The town manager says we are prepared to do that in January or we can do it sometime sooner than that. We just leave that up to them in that commission, committee, whatever they want to call it, to bring forward. That's just one part of this. And then to decide what we want to do with 27 now. That's the other part to take in consideration. That's the part I'm throwing out there for you for thoughts.

I think the only thing we need to do right now is decide on 27. We can continue the discussion for 28 and beyond. And I'll say this. Option B, you know, when this was brought to us, we talked a lot like in July for the July 4th, you know, fireworks for everything going on there. Number one, it is hot. It is taxing. It is taking a toll on our staff. So while I understand we were on a truncated time frame here to make this decision specifically, I think we're all understanding that, which is why we're all saying we need to start now, talking about 28. But option B fixes the majority, I believe, of those problems. We tend to see those summer months are vacations. That is when it is hot. That is when people sleep. working anywhere from 16 to 19 and a half hours are going to be well worn out we're going to have heat related events from uh potentially employees from um you know from citizens from band members you know who knows i think reducing that while maximizing the number of events that we can hold in 27 while we have a conversation for 28 i think option b ticks most of the boxes And that's why I guess I'll just put it out there. I am offering my consensus or towards consensus for option B from my seat.

Can I ask one question, Ms. Lisa? When do we close all special events and events request for 27? I think it's just an important piece of information that we all need to have because some people are already planning and got their stuff in.

Good evening. Lisa Hayes, Organizational Performance Director here at the Town. We accept applications year-round. However, for 27, what we do is your application should be in by September 30th. We meet as a group, we evaluate those applications in case there's overlap on people requesting the same date, and we approve those applications. Organizers that had events the year before grandfathered in for their particular dates. But you can apply anytime. So once we make that decision in October, if you apply in January, we will still accept that application. If a date is available, we'll consider that.

So my point is we've already got applications. If they're not all the way in, we'll be coming in by the end of this month for the month of October and actually June, July, et cetera. But the month of October. That's correct. So we're shifting something there. And we just have to be cognizant of that decision. That's all I'm asking. Because there's several things that's already either grandfathered or whatever you want to call it already set up. That is correct. OK. Thank you, ma'am.

Per the special events policy, the limitations on special events are two per month for downtown, but that's in the special events policy only, meaning that the board would be free to waive that. I do think it's important to read the preamble to this section, though. In order to continue to cost-effectively support these events with public staff, to protect the interests of community members who are regular users of streets, sidewalks, and greenways from undue inconvenience, and to continue to support these events that are positive for the health recreation and well-being of participants and for the economic development of the town the following restrictions shall be considered so with that in mind the board is free to make an exception to anything within the special events policy that's not a legal requirement and that limitation is just guidance it's not a legal requirement

Fantastic. So since we as a town would be potentially inconveniencing another group in October, I'm assuming that we as a town would do everything possible to accommodate another time frame for that, or we as a board can decide to, I guess, create exemption for that ordinance for Friday night on White to be held in October. So either way, yes, there may be some shifting around. But that's also with the July 4 Children's Parade. There are times that these things happen. We're talking about a one-year kind of take a breather and have a conversation. So thank you, sir.

So I just have another question. Sorry, just have to ask the question. And it's actually for Jennifer. And I'm pretty confident we talked about this at the last meeting. But can you just refresh to me that what is the deadline for, because I know some individuals tonight talked about not making a quick decision. But what is the deadline for us in regards to sponsors and making this decision? So that way we're not impacting you all and what you got to do.

So we, in full disclosure, we normally start planning Friday Night in Hawaii as soon as, I mean, it ended last Friday. I usually take about a week breather. But there's some times that you already have contracts signed before the season's over. I did not do that this year, knowing that some of the issues and concerns we were having. i think the sponsorship packet and the food vendor packet the food vendor packet normally goes out first thing in january the sponsor packet goes out i think in late fall so i think there's a correlation of all of those things obviously Because without saying if things are as is or repeating what they were this year, those changes are minimal. Any change to the event schedule creates change then for the sponsorships package. It creates change for less food trucks, more food trucks, depending on what we're doing. So I can't speak for every single department, but I know realistically, you know, tonight, next meeting at the latest. I mean, I appreciate y'all acknowledging. And yes, I will say, I think this year was unusual in a lot of ways. I agree that in a perfect world, we would have time to truly plan ahead and be more proactive. And I think this year just a number of things kind of happened. I would like to call it the perfect storm. And again, I think that overall, all things considered, I think the event was still well attended, well received, and that from a staff component, I think staff did the best of their ability. But I do think there are some external things that obviously weather we have no control over. And I think it really, it did open our eyes to some different challenges and just the need for Again, long-term sustainability. Do we want to continue? We know it's a beloved community event, but if we're going to continue at this pace, it is, I think, realizing and being cognizant of what it's doing to staff and having then an alternative plan. And yes, I agree that we definitely can, whatever we come up with or leave here tonight, it doesn't mean that that's the end of the story. We're definitely going to continue just like we have been.

OK, thank you.

So for clarity, just what we'd be, I guess, are we voting? Is it just a consent? How's the best way to handle it?

We can have both. But we can have a consent. if you want option a B or C that's that's one the other mode the other thing I just asked for is consent in order to form the group that Commissioner both you all the commissioners have said about what the way ahead is and that that task goes to the town manager to come back I'm not sure we said a group we were just saying like as a organization well like the town and us just having a talk like a But I'm just the only reason why I asked for Kip to to run it that way we bring in all the all the various people Under the auspice of that so he then can bring that back to us as some options at whether it's January or whatever that he tells us do we need a commission to do that or could we do something like that at the The retreat I Don't know if we'll have enough time by the retreat I Mean we can certainly try but I just don't I

I don't know, because of the in-depth discussions we talked about up here, we definitely want to do a deep dive into it.

Can we maybe do like a mid-year retreat?

Commissioner, we could always do a special called meeting if you would like. My favorite. I'm available every Saturday, Sunday also.

But, Kip, the question, though, is we need your thoughts on this. What is the best way for us to take that step forward? I mean, I've heard from the We've heard from the business people. We've heard from our town staff. But how do we bring this together to talk about 28 and beyond? What would be the best method, or do you want to – what do you say, sir?

I can – obviously, I can organize a staff that needs to be there. But as far as the business community, I don't know if the preference is to have the entire business community or certain members of the business community from downtown. I would just need some – direction on that. Do we have to decide that tonight?

I was going to say, can we just vote on this on 2028?

In an effort to kind of tie this up with a book. I'm going to go ahead and make a motion to accept the recommendations for the events for 2027 and beyond to include option B as far as Friday Night on White, reducing the number of events from six to four and for those events to be held in April, May, September and October. I think that's

I WANT TO MAKE SURE. YOU SAID 2027 AND BEYOND. I WANT TO MAKE SURE IT'S JUST FOR 2027. I KNOW THAT'S WHAT IT'S CALLED.

I WILL AMEND TO STRIKE THE WORDS AND BEYOND FROM MY MOTION. SECOND.

I HAVE A MOTION. I HAVE A SECOND. ANY COMMENTS OR QUESTIONS FROM THE BOARD? There are none. All in favor, please signify by saying aye.

Aye.

Aye. We have all the ayes have it. Thank you very much.

Mayor, if I may interrupt with some exciting news.

Thank you.

If you and the board are so inclined, we can go back to item 8A. Upon further consideration, if the proposal is to reduce the speed limit from 35 to 25, and the board is interested in addressing that tonight, it can be voted upon and passed so long as it receives a supermajority. I will so move that. Second.

So we have a motion. We have a second. All in favor? Aye. I believe that's a supermajority, sir.

Yes, sir. Thank you.

Thank you very much.

Actually, I would like my abstention recorded.

Oh, we have an abstention? Does that affect the solution?

Four out of five, so that's...

Okay, thank you.

I just had to ask the other lawyer on the board.

Okay, our next is other business. You received a tax report. Do we have any questions for the staff on the August tax report? have none about the department monthly reports no questions no comments I've have none okay now we're going to go into other reports miss Evelyn do you have something thank you thank you ma'am mr. Kipp anything for the board yes mayor two items the first is the planning department has requested that the

Public hearing for the Franklin Street townhomes be moved up to the October work session for public hearing and vote on that I think there's some deadlines for the applicant that they're trying to meet So if you're all okay with that, then we will adjust the schedule Do we have consent to move that on the to the October works work session?

There's no non-consent. So you have consent sir.

Thank you And the next one is I'm going to ask Amy friggin our result senator director to come forward and while she's coming I want to provide some context We do art exhibitions monthly, and our October art exhibition has generated a lot of questions and concerns. So I wanted Amy to come up and kind of give an overview of the art exhibitions, our process, and kind of what we do going forward.

Yeah, absolutely. Thank you so much for giving me your time tonight. I know it is late, so I will try to make this brief. All right, so I would like to give you just a brief overview of what the art gallery is at the Renaissance Center, how it operates, and what to expect from current and future exhibitions. What is the gallery? In case you're unfamiliar, we began displaying art in the Arts Annex adjacent to the Renaissance Center Performing Arts in 2018 in partnership with the Wake Forest Guild of Artists. In September of 2024, due to constraints on the Guild's bandwidth, both parties mutually agreed that the Renaissance Center would oversee gallery exhibits. The gallery currently exhibits a wide variety of shows that primarily fall under four categories. Those are open calls, meaning anybody can apply. There's no theme, just show us your work. There are exhibits that feature specialty groups, specialty themes, like the one in July for What Does America Mean to Me?, and ones that just are specific artists. So how does an artist get to present their work at the Renaissance Center? Unless we're presenting an exhibit by a specific artist, then anyone is welcome to submit for the exhibit. Artist calls are communicated via social media and press releases from the communications department. There's an online form in which artists can upload their piece, along with contract information, social media handles, and, if available, their website address. We do not ask for intent or message about the piece, and we do not ask for an artist's bio. Submissions are reviewed by our arts coordinator, who curates the gallery exhibits. Pieces are evaluated on adherence to the prompt and artistic merit. Any pieces that are questionable are brought to the Renaissance Center staff for evaluation. And then as a group, we will decide if it's appropriate for the space and if it would meaningfully contribute to the exhibit. So there are some things we do not accept. And before I get into that, I want to make it clear that our goal is the more art, the better. We do not want to limit art. So we really try to make this as broad as possible. But we do have some internal guidelines that dictate our standards. And right now we're working with Nathan to really codify those. and formalize them and create some procedures around them. But just in general, we do not accept pieces that depict nudity, sexual acts, graphic or realistic violence, gore, illegal drug use, or explicitly promote political or religious messaging. So if you think rated R, we're not going to take it. And these standards are applied to all submissions throughout. So I know that the October exhibit, which features a partnership with Wake Forest Pride, is a special interest group exhibit. So I'd like to hone in on that. Exhibits from special interest groups are pretty common for the Renaissance Center and other municipally-run art galleries. For example, right now at the Renaissance Center, we're showcasing the works of local educators. So only educators could be a part of that exhibit. Last month, we showcased work by town employees and their family members. Only folks who were part of the town or related to folks who are members of the town staff could apply for that. And then, like last year, we had a really neat exhibit by folks who have disabilities. So we really try to create some broad special interests there. Special interest exhibits are not intended to exclude any members of our community. They're just a way to elevate various demographics of artists in our community. In fact, special interest group exhibits support our strategic plan that was adopted in 2022 and runs through 2027. Item 3.2.23.5 suggests that we work with local community organizations to understand the needs and requirements for existing community celebrations, identify additional opportunities for new celebrations, identify funding sources and collaborative partners to launch new community events. Item 3.3.1 will suggest that we present a variety of performances and programming that will attract and celebrate our diverse community. And item 3.3.2.3 will host a variety of programs and special events throughout the year to bring the community together to celebrate diverse cultures. I will quiz you on that later. So, let me address some specific questions about the Pride exhibit. I'm trying to bring us into the last bit here. Okay, so here are some questions that I have gotten. Number one, why is the Pride exhibit getting special treatment? The answer is, it is not. The Pride exhibit is not unlike any other exhibit that we're having with this town. So it's subject to the same adjudication guidelines, the marketing, the opening at reception. Everything will be exactly like every other exhibit we have ever had. How did this partnership come to be? Like most exhibit partnerships, this was a baguette of organic community interaction. Last summer, before I was hired, Wake Forest Pride was here touring our space for a potential rental. They were inspired by the gallery space. They said they would like to exhibit, and our arts program coordinator agreed that could be a cool showcase. And this is how most of our specialty exhibits work. Will Wake Forest Pride monetarily profit from this exhibit? Nope. The Renaissance Center does not pay people to exhibit with us, and they do not pay us to exhibit their work. Will this event promote homosexuality? No. The association with the LGBTQ community refers to the artist and not the art. In fact, if you were to walk through the gallery without knowing the prompt, you'd likely have no idea about the sexual orientation or gender identity of the artist. And I'm going to pull up the pictures so far that we've exhibited, or we have accepted into the exhibit, just so you can see.

There's nothing to show here.

I hope you got a quick glance of it and then it disappeared. It is of a starry scape over a desert. Oh, no. Evelyn, what's happening? That was an elephant. All right, we're going to go so fast so you can see it so quick. There's a necklace.

If you close them and open them again, that's what was happening to me today. They would blink out when they were left open for a while.

Okay, I'm just going to let you see. I'm going to hover and let you see. There's a necklace with some... Amy?

Yes? If you let me, I'll pull it up for you.

Oh, my gosh, yes, please. Please help me. Thank you, Evelyn. You're welcome. She even said, if you get in trouble with the technology, just holler. As she pulls it up, I'll just go ahead and continue answering our questions. I know we're running quite late this evening. Will this be an annual event? Nope. We don't offer any annual events at our gallery except for our student showcase, which we will continue to do. And then another question we've got is, if you're doing a pride exhibit, would you allow a church to do an exhibit? And the answer is sure. If it fits in with our greater exhibition series and it adheres to our community standards, so again, no explicit religious messaging, then we would certainly welcome that type of exhibit. As I said, for us, the more art, the better. So that would be great for us. In summation, the Renaissance Center simply cannot ensure that all programming makes all of our community members happy. But we do strive to offer a really diverse season so that somebody, that all people, find a program that brings them joy, inspiration, and a sense of belonging. And I'll walk us through. Evelyn, if you just wouldn't mind. We've got five pieces so far that we've accepted in this exhibition. And this is piece number one. Thank you so much for driving, Evelyn. We've got number two. And I'm happy to take any questions you have about the gallery or future exhibits or current exhibits. I have a couple questions.

I just want to make sure I understand the process of this. When you do the gallery, people display art in the gallery, is it based on a theme? Is that correct? There's usually some type of theme? Frequently there is a theme, but not always. What is the process of you... meeting, who decides that something has met the requirements of the theme. I guess I would wonder about that.

Sure. So initial review goes through our arts coordinator. And then if there's anything that she's like, I don't know if this meets the theme or not, then she'll bring it to the rest of the team and then we'll discuss it.

Okay, so with the one with the local educators, you made sure everybody was an educator? How do you confirm the people that are actually... Yeah, and this is actually one of the questions.

I accidentally missed it. But we do not vet our artists. So one of the questions that I've also gotten is, are we going to investigate if an artist is LGBTQIA? And the answer is no. We are not interested in their personal lives. We do just hope that people will be honest and self-submit as they see fit.

So when we set these up, I know that when we do shows over there, our artists and the people that come and perform sign contracts. And those contracts are binding, and they have legal language around them, I'm assuming. And who ultimately signs that contract for the shows that come?

So ultimately, it's the town manager, the town attorney, and I think the town clerk, right? Do you sign this? Finance.

Finance is the other decision maker. But I want to make sure I understand this. So all of these art shows, though, that we're doing are just... like organic, like we want to host an art show, OK, that's fine? Like there's no contract around this at all?

There's no contract at the moment. However, Nathan and I have been discussing that perhaps an MOU would be in order. But since there's no payment, thus far we've not seen the need for a contract.

Okay, so it's just an application, it's just a conversation. So, all right, that's concerning to me that we don't have any type of contract surrounding this. And then, let me see if I have any other questions. So we host a reception with these. I've seen that we host a reception at some of them. So all of these things are funded by the town. Is this correct?

Correct. The reception is pretty minimal. But yeah, it's town funded. Staff are present. And I think for July, we handed out popsicles at the event.

OK. All right.

All right. Thank you. Sure. Any other questions?

comments. Thank you for sharing that information. I thought that was very helpful. And just to piggyback on something you said, I like a little clarification. I think in some respects, when you have a policy, and I'm going to get a little lawyerly here, so excuse me, everyone. If we have a policy and we're saying you can exhibit your art here and we will accept your art here, that essentially there is an implied agreement that you will comply with the policy that's in place. So I want to be careful about not recognizing that there is kind of an agreement already in place. Um, in my opinion, so I'm good with that. I think maybe if we need to be clearer, that might be something that may need to be discussed, but I think there is an agreement in place. It's just not called the contract. It's not called an agreement, but there is definitely an implication that, Hey, if you are presenting your art in our facility, here are the, here's the policy you have to abide by. If you abide by the agreement, then we will allow you to do so. And that's a contract in its basic sense. So I just want to make sure that's clear.

They don't sign anything that says that.

Understood.

Yeah, I'm just clarifying. Because everything else is so policy and written up and everything. That's fair. So this is so...

And that's why I say if we need.

Open and we had a conversation and now we're having this like that.

If I may. Yeah. That's why I say if we need to tidy it up or if you would feel better with something that is signed, that makes sense. But you don't need a signed contract for it to be a contract. And that's, I mean, it's offering assent. It's offering acceptance. It's as simple as that. I mean, every time you accept a good, whether you have it written in contract or not, if you pay and you receive, that's an agreement. Again, I'm sorry. I apologize for being large. Sometimes it comes out, especially since the best law commissioner is no longer on the board.

And if you're issuing a denial, are you issuing it or are we having our attorney issue it?

For the performance contracts, I issue our standardized contract. Our attorney reviews it. So does risk management and town management.

For the performance?

Yeah, so I imagine this would be something similar if we were going to go forward with an MOU. I would probably be in charge of the distribution of that, but I would not be the one writing that. That would be something Nathan would write.

Moving forward, I would like that to be the case.

Would you clarify? I think I actually agree with you.

There are times when denials happen with these various art shows based on things they submit. And the denials have, up to this point, not been coming from our attorney. I think they know how to issue them and have issued them, but I still believe that our attorney needs to be issuing denials so that the language is always consistent. Okay.

And to make sure I understand then, is it okay with this board and Commissioner Cross if I have a proposed memorandum of understanding that would govern these transactions that we can review? Because some of the specifics may need to be ironed out. For example, whether or not I reject a piece of art

It might be better. A rejection might come better from somebody with an art degree. For sure.

Correct. But to the degree that these need to be governed, and what's the difference between a performance contract and this situation is a performer comes into our building and does things in our building for which we need to hold them accountable if they do something wrong or break something, whereas these art exhibitors are public attendees like everybody else. And so I think we can create some paperwork around this. I'm never one hesitant to create paperwork, so glad to do it.

But just a real quick question, though. What you're saying is it's not you, the town attorney, that is making the determination. It is the Art Council. Correct.

It's Renaissance Center staff that make the decision.

So that's what the MOU would say, even if it's written up by that way. But we're not saying we're going to add to the town attorney's duties as you will now review each piece of art that comes in.

Obviously, the staff would be communicating with our attorney. That's right.

We just want to make sure that we got that clear.

Yeah, so that I'm not saying they're making the decision about the art. I just want our attorney involved in that. Because there seems to be an element of this that from my perspective, feels subjective of whoever made the verbal agreement, decide, hey, we're going to do this, or whoever looks at the art. Art is a little more subjective. I'm not saying that we can make it, we can't put it in the same boxes as we put other things. But I also think we need to have some clarity around this process. And we do not have it. And that makes me uncomfortable.

Any other comments on this?

I'm a little curious. So a lot of these questions, I'm assuming, are coming from our citizens and the public. Have any of those past special interest groups or special groups or, I'm sorry, whatever you said, however you referred to them, sorry, did any of those generate the same kind of questions?

No. OK.

Um, cause I was even going back through and there was a call for artists last September, uh, for veterans, their families, reservists, um, active duty military, and again, their, their families, um, that call for artists, um, for that special group didn't garner any of these kinds of questions. Correct. And again, no, I guess, special group to this point has garnered any questions like that. Correct.

To my knowledge, this is the first time we've had this conversation.

Thank you very much.

Thank you, sir. If I may comment.

I do like the policy. I want to be very clear on that, and I support what y'all have done, how you've handled it. I think you've handled it very, very well. I support the policy. I am not opposed to having something that clearly states the policy that people sign when they come in. So I think that would be the memorandum of understanding. I just want to be very clear on where I stand on that. Do we need a motion or anything like that on this issue?

If it's the board's pleasure, we'll create the paperwork and come back with a motion that the substance of the paperwork be what we utilize going forward in these relationships, if that's okay with everyone.

Yes. And so it's the MOU, as discussed. Yes. And you'll bring that forward at the next work session?

Absolutely. Thank you.

If I can just get one point of clarification. So the staff would still vet the art and then deny it. If they denied anything, it would go to Nathan so he could look at it and then do an official denial. Is that what y'all are saying? Yes.

To deny it based upon our written... policy or procedure, not Nathan's, not like me. You're not going to ask me to judge Art, but Nathan would make sure that it meets our requirements to deny. Is that what I'm understanding?

I think the staff's denial would go through the town attorney's office might be the best way to kind of look at that, to double check.

I don't think denials happen incredibly often, but yeah, that sounds absolutely doable.

Yeah. OK, so unless there's dissent on that, I mean, so let's go forward. OK, so look, I just want to openly say and just recognize the work that the Renaissance Center, your staff do in highlighting local art and artists, not just for this, but throughout the year. And your efforts to showcase creativity of this community and ensure that we continue to celebrate and support artists and support and include our entire community is just absolutely fantastic. So I just want to say that openly. And I hope I'm speaking on behalf of the entire board for that. So please keep up the great work. And people talk about you're a crown jewel of our town. And what you performed this weekend was just absolutely fantastic to see the children there, to see the adults there. And I tell you, when the puppet show started, it was every age and every stage. If we were going to talk about that, they stopped and watched that show every age and every stage. Because I know I did. And it was absolutely fantastic. And Danny, I'm a little bit senior than you. And so I'm a senior guy. And it stopped me. So I'm at one age of this thing. So I just want to thank you, publicly thank you for everything that you guys do.

Thank you. That means a lot.

Any other questions, Mayor?

Yes, sir. I'm sorry, Kip. Please. Just based on the questions and the comments that we've had, if the board wouldn't mind, I think some type of vote to just okay what's being scheduled for October.

Do we have consent to continue with what the Renaissance Center is planning for the month of October in their gallery?

I'll make a motion that we approve or authorize the Renaissance Center to continue with the planning for that special interest exhibition scheduled in October.

We have a motion. Do I have a second?

Second.

I have a second. All in favor? Oh, I'm sorry. We got a comment.

I pull this one up, and I just keep moving further away. I'm sorry, Commissioner. I guess just to that, if I can have some help understanding why we're needing a motion and a vote on this.

I think it's a matter of support because of, based off the policy being applied evenly across all special interest groups, the fact that we've got one that is getting opposition, really not even opposition, it's just being questioned even though and being insinuated that it does not follow the policy and that it is not consistently applied, I think it's really a vote of support for the application of the policy evenly and consistently.

So we're asking for a vote to recognize that the policy is being applied consistently, not to support any one group or not show support for another group that is

Our policies up to this date has been consistently applied all the way across.

I think, though, that Kip is saying, because this one has come under question, you're asking for a vote.

Yeah, I just think for staff, just that some type of official action just to say that, you know, how they've handled it and what they're doing is still consistent with our current policies for this event in October.

That was your motion. And then we had a second on that. Is there any other comments or insight?

I'm still trying to work through this in my head for a second.

Do you want me to start the timer?

You'll smell the cobwebs burning. I get three minutes, right?

Well, I say you do, but we'll have to get consent from the rest of the board on how much time we give you.

Make an offer to vote.

OK. And I guess I will just say.

The question's been called.

In that respect, I am supportive of staff's implementation of the policy for the event in October. So that would be an affirmative vote here, correct? Okay. I'm just making sure of what I am voting on.

Yes. Okay. Okay, so the question's been called. All in favor, please signify by saying aye. Aye. Opposed, please say nay. Okay, four to one. The ayes have it. Thank you, ma'am.

Thank you.

Thank you, Kip. Anything else, sir?

No, sir. Thank you.

OK, thank you. We're going to go to, from right to left, Commissioner Hook. And I'll catch you off guard here.

No, no, no. Let me go first, please. OK. I know it's been a long evening. Again, thank you, everyone, for coming out. Unplugged was a great success on September 6. Well attended and great job by the Parks and Rec Cultural Resources Advisory Board. I should know this by now, right? The town is hosting a virtual urban forestry community workshop on Tuesday, September 22nd from 6 to 7, 15 p.m. Attended the American Legion pancake breakfast. If you haven't done that, please do so. It's awesome. It's $7. You can eat all the pancakes, all the sausage. It's really great. It's the second Sunday of every month. Like the mayor said, the community celebration of arts was a great success and I enjoyed going to that. It was a pleasure to attend the 70th memorial flag raising ceremony honoring Grady Macon and learning a lot about what he's done and he was a teacher in the town of Wake Forest. So appreciate attending that. So I've been volunteering with the Wake Forest Community Table, and it really has shown me a lot about what is happening in our town and food insecurity and everything. I just want to give a special thanks to Reverend Larry Wilder. He is celebrating his fifth pastoral anniversary this coming Saturday. The Reverend and I have had some great conversations during this volunteering opportunity. Also, just a special thanks to Mary Jo Van Horn and Libby Kemp, the two staff members, the part-time staff members at the Active Aging Center. And I really appreciate when I've gone into that center and how helpful they are to citizens and a big asset to our town. And then last but not least, I'm wearing my lapel, which is the port of Panama and the United States of America. Of course, during my interview, I talked about my heritage and my mama, who was born in Panama. And thank you to everyone who is celebrating this month of the Spanish Legion, because it is very important that everyone has a voice here in Wake Forest. And for those that don't speak Spanish, my translation which is loosely as best as possible but thank you so much for celebrating uh hispanic heritage month um it means a lot not just to me but to a lot of residents in our town that are not being seen and they have a voice which is really important for our town that's all i've got thank you thank you commissioner commissioner slowinski

No rural updates other than a couple of events coming up on the next three Saturdays. This coming Saturday we have Good Neighbor Day at Joyner Park. That is on the 19th from 1 until 4. The following Saturday From 1 to 4 at the Renaissance Center will be the 4th Annual Mental Wellness Fair. There's a lot of information on that. Like I said last meeting, the schedule's a little different and segmented out, so please check on that. And then on October 3rd, from noon to 3, will be the Diwali Festival. I had the opportunity to attend that last year, and it was a fantastic event. It's great. Come on out. Lots of good stuff going on. But that is it for me, Mayor. Thank you, sir. Commissioner Cross?

Yep. So I just wanted to say I was very excited to see on the consent agenda that we're moving forward with the reservoir and getting that dam taken care of. I was really excited since that was something we've talked about for about three, at least it was before I was on the board, and I'm very excited about that. Wanted to thank engineering for helping with holding village that I've had to spend a lot of time on the phone with various people And so I'm really excited that we can make some changes to the speed in that neighborhood. I think they will be too I I went to the the public the community art day. That was great. Not the The puppet show was a huge hit though. That was I was really it was through it was really fun to watch the kids faces when they were looking at those puppets and And then I have the AARP age-friendly committee meeting tomorrow and coffee with a commissioner on Thursday.

So that's it Thank You Commissioner Commissioner Wright

I attended Friday Night on White, and I think you and the staff did, and I even told you this afterwards, a wonderful job with September 11th Memorial before. Just having the flag back there and having everybody come out, it was pretty powerful, and I really enjoyed it. I think it was a wonderful tribute, and I would, especially if we're keeping now September, I would love to see us maybe do that every year. I think it'd be a great tribute. Other than that, that's all I got. Thank you, Commissioner Wright. Mayor Pro Tem.

I've got two things, Mayor. First is I do want to revisit that speeding issue. I want to make a comment on that. And please don't misinterpret my abstention that I opposed that, but I'm actually in support of it. think we need to be and I'm talking to citizens that drive and use that road we have to slow down you know that that road was specifically designed to for 25 miles per hour, and it being one way in two different directions, with the crosswalks clearly marked, with turns that force you to slow down. We can only legislate so much, but you have to change your behavior. And so that's kind of where I was coming from, is a little bit of anger in this, is because mean except you know i agree with the speed limit reducing from that one little spot because that is tricky but i mean it's already set up in a very natural way to cause people to go 25 miles per hour i use that road pretty regularly and i have no problems going 25 miles per hour i recognize there is a playground on the left and greenway or multi-use path on the right and i slow down naturally So it's one of those things where common sense should rule on this thing. And some things we should not have to legislate. Excuse me. And so I just wanted to say that. The other issue is, and I was reminded by Commissioner Hupp that I had a private conversation a while back. And I just want to kind of say it publicly. I would like to see us look at making sure our meetings are accessible to those who don't necessarily speak English as a first language and to our hearing impaired. And to even, well, cite, obviously, the sound is there. But I would like to see us broaden that as much as we can and make sure that our meetings are offered in different languages so even our newer members of our community who may be immigrants and don't speak English as a first language can listen and start to understand this process. So I wanted to say that out loud.

I second that.

We are working on the language issue and tonight Commissioner Hutt was using the new hearing impaired device and so we're testing that out. Have some feedback.

Yeah you didn't know because you know it was a I'm a guinea pig tonight not that I was in hiding shadow or whatever but There is an app. I do thank the town staff that I've talked about this with Kip and others. There is an app that I utilized tonight. So if you want me to give feedback, I will in public. Sure.

We need to hear it.

So you can hear, but there is a lot of echo. I will say, again, we're at a trial run, so it was helpful for some parts, but I actually turned it off when I was speaking because it's an echo situation. The best part is that we're making steps and strides, and we'll continue to improve this. And thanks to IT staff. Thanks, Lou, Juan, for trying to help me. But we definitely need to make some improvements on this. And it really goes right into your hearing aids. It's Bluetooth. And I'm not calling Eileen Staples out, but hopefully she can utilize this, because her and I have talked about this for a while. So that's my quick feedback.

Thank you, Commissioner. Thank you, Kip. You know, I've got a couple brief things. I want to thank everybody for public comments tonight. It's absolutely important, and we are taking the words that you said to heart, and we're going to get things right for our town. So you're pleased, and anyone who comes in and wants to talk public comment, please come. It's important to all of us. I want to especially thank Troop 511 for coming here. And we will get their names officially on the list. I was brought that. But it's my fault. Didn't get it in time enough to put it on the agenda. So I apologize for that. I'm going to just jump straight to what a wonderful, wonderful, wonderful event that every one of this town staff put together for Friday night. And a tribute to our first responders for 9-11 and our current first responders and military. It was such a special, special event. And I would be remiss if I did not say that Angela DiApolo and Will Wilts and Maria, I'm sorry, Maya, I'm saying it all wrong. Thank you. Maya Warren, what fantastic performance they did to honor America in our town. So on the record, Maya, I apologize for not being able to say that correctly, your name correctly. Again, thank you for the staff for what you do. Thank you for putting up with the... our day-to-day things as we're trying to uh you know to help support you in this town and i want to thank the commissioners uh each and every one of you for your input and your thoughts it's very important uh so and as we we step forward uh with this town because we talked a little bit about all of a sudden we're planning for 2028 and it's going to be here in a blink of an eye so so thank you thank you for all your input uh do i have any other comments from the board Kip, Ms. Evelyn, no? Do I have a motion for adjournment?

One comment. It snuck in. Go ahead, sir. I don't know if it was mentioned. I may not have heard it, but Good Neighbor Day is Saturday.

Is this Saturday? That's right. Oh, yeah. Commissioner Slowinski said. I'm sorry. I think your mic wasn't working right or the hearing part of it.

It's because I had to do this because I keep doing this, and Commissioner Huff can't see my – and I feel horrible about it.

Okay. Thank you, Kip. Do we have a motion to adjourn? Do I have a second? All in favor? Aye. Aye. We are now adjourned. Thank you very much.