WELCOME TO SUMMERFIELD SCOOP
Established December 2013 as a Facebook media source that reports and shares local, county, state, and national news and events in the Guilford County area. Our Summerfield Scoop Facebook page has over 8700 followers and growing.
WE‘RE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER?
OUR GOAL IS SIMPLE:
We are being told that we are all in this together; so NOW is the time to recognize the serious financial and personal hardships that the good people of Summerfield are enduring.
Share or publish a story or event that may be essential or of interest to the local community, even when it is not a politically correct issue.
Now is not the time to start multi-million dollar projects. Now is the time for tax relief – and true fiscal conservative actions. The “budget” from the majority of council and the major water project for the Fire Dept. is NOT affordable – unless you want to soon spend the $6 to $7 million in reserves, levy higher taxes, and take on debt. When the reserves are spent the money is gone and will not be replenished. This is a year for a zero property tax levy and let the people keep their $450,000. Who said you need a $2.2 million “budget” that includes $860,000 from Reserves, mostly to start very expensive projects? Town manager said, “Town has desperate needs for meeting space and water for the Fire Department.” It appears the manager, mayor and majority of town council decided that YOU and your Town taxes will pay for the Fire Dept. water towers -- a separate taxing district with more money than the Town! Is this responsive “to the needs of the ‘Town’ citizens?” Does this high level of town spending comply with the Comprehensive Town Plan for Limited Services Local Government? “Low taxes, continue small government and staff – no bureaucracy, small town government (simple/ effective), UNWANTED – higher property taxes.” This is YOUR money and please take a moment to read what we have prepared for you.
- Your friends at Summerfield Scoop
NEWS! For town news go to FACEBOOK Summerfield Scoop. There is also a link to watch the meetings live, or the videos may also be posted after the town meetings on Facebook Summerfield Scoop, or www.YouTube.com Summerfield Scoop Comments or Letters to the Editor Email: SummerfieldNCNews@gmail.com Website https://SummerfieldNews.com Click on READ SCOOP NEWS on the website to view the prior Newsletter. Summerfield Scoop (336) 860 – 8489 (phone and text) Mail address: PO Box 39296, Greensboro NC 27438-9296 Advertising Email SummerfieldScoopADS@gmail.com for information about placing advertisements in Summerfield Scoop (336) 860 – 8489
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MAY 2020
OUR STORY: Scoop has a unique and different way of reporting, sharing, and making a point. It is intended to be different than other outlets. Dry, silly, controversial, and serious to ensure followers get it all. We can be biased, and we don’t hide it, but we also “attempt” to be as fair as possible. You will not agree with us on everything (if you are married, you understand) and do not expect you to. We offer personal opinions, videotape public meetings, provide information related to news, politics, and share the local story that may impact our area. We aren’t shy when it comes to controversial issues. We call it as we see it, give our non-journalistic opinion, and provide video coverage.
Rhino Times is now online with frequent updates of SUMMERFIELD News. To not miss the Rhino Times go to www.RhinoTimes.com and click on SUBSCRIBE to receive the edition in your inbox, or register at Sign Up for Rhino Times Daily Headlines. Letters to the Editor: Letters@RhinoTimes.com News & Record: Letters to the Editor, 200 words or less, or 400 words for Editorial. Include your name, email address, home street address, and daytime phone number. EdPage@Greensboro.com
PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENTS: NEWS! Republic Waste Services There is some terrific house cleaning going on, and with that please be patient with Republic Services trash pick-up. They are working hard to keep up with the increased amount of pick-up and need to keep their employees safe too. If your pick-up is late please do not call about missed pick up until after 6pm, and be patient if recycling is late. There was a temporary suspension of bulk and yard waste to effectively handle the additional volume in waste and recycling. The good news is that service for bulk and yard waste has been resumed for Summerfield. Republic 336.724.0842 NEWS! Update from our NC Attorney General, Josh Stein If you are concerned about a case of scam or price gouging related to COVID-19, you may contact the Attorney General Office at 1–877–5–NO-SCAM. To report scams: https://ncdoj.gov/file-a-complaint/ To report Price gouging: https://ncdoj.gov/file-a-complaint/price-gouging/
SUMMERFIELD SCOOP
HIDDEN GEMS FOR VETERANS By: Rick Staton Rick.Staton@yahoo.com
Easter’s Promise is built on the Hope of Easter. The new beginning is for Veterans who deal with Survivor’s guilt including those who were deployed in Iraq, Vietnam, etc. Easter’s Promise is a place for Easter’s Promise Therapeutic family. It is peaceful and open for fishing, walking trails, picnic area Equine Center is a special place and horseback riding. where disabled horses help disabled veterans. Volunteers are always appreciated. The farm is a great experience for young people to learn where their food comes from and to First established between learn about farming. Easter’s Promise has no government funding October 2012 and March 2013, because it is a non-profit Christian organization. They always need The Director, Mary Ann Yow saw funds because of the cost of veterinary bills, animal care and farm disabled Veterans riding horses for therapy on television. upkeep. You can contact Mary Ann Yow at 336-312-5390. God said to her that he wanted her to do that also, so on New Year’s Due to the Coronavirus, Easter’s Promise is closed to visitors, but Day, she was praying to God about where she was going to do this. open to veterans. They hope to soon again be open every day for Then she received a phone call about some land and she knew her all visitors. path was clear. They are planning a PTSD Awareness Walk on June 6th 2020. Their main focus is on Veterans who are struggling with PTSD, and Registration fee is $20 and registration is at 8am. The walk their families. begins at 9am. Easter’s Promise: 500 East Steeple Chase Road, Pleasant Garden, NC 27313 | Facebook: Easters Promise Therapeutic Equine Center
CLOSER TO HOME MEET DOGWOOD EQUESTRIAN Dogwood Equestrian in Summerfield is a full-service hunter/jumper facility offering boarding, training/consulting, and a lesson program. With both an indoor arena and large outdoor ring equipped with a full jump course, they offer riding lessons all year long, rain or shine! Dogwood Equestrian is at Still Water Farms in Summerfield NC. The program offers education from beginner through advanced levels and places emphasis on pairing the rider with his or her perfect mount to complete at local through “C” and “AA” shows throughout the Carolinas. Visit Dogwood Equestrian on their Facebook page to share wonderful photos and stories from their events. Feel free to call AnnMarie Bosley for more information (336) 314.1538. Located at 7169 Strawberry Road, Summerfield NC 27358.
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IT’S YOUR MONEY! PROPOSED SALARY BUDGET FY 2019-2020
TOWN OF SUMMERFIELD PROPOSED BUDGET FOR PAY AND BENEFITS FOR FY 2019-2020 Fiscal year July 1, 2019 to June 30, 2020 This information is included for you as pay and benefits are the largest item in the town budget, and they increase every year. This is not related to job performance, and not to be critical, but to share with you, the taxpayers, how your mayor, council members, and manager are spending your money. Budget of $673,340 for 20192020 Pay and Benefits includes the following overtime estimates: • 15 hours per month for Clerk • 5 hours a month for Town Planner • 10 hours a month for Parks and Rec Manager Annual increase in pay for town staff averaged 4% per year for past few years. Longevity Pay increases when employees reach milestone anniversaries: 5 years of service = 2% 10 years of service = 3% 15 years of service = 3.5% 20 years of service = 4% 25 years of service = 4.5% 30 years of service = 5% There were no scheduled longevity increases fiscal year 2019-2020.
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Longevity pay increases are in linked to the homepage in the addition to annual performance future. pay increases. Print copies are not available from the town. Information not yet available if there are Longevity pay increases Town Mayor is paid $250 a month. for 2020-2021. Town Council Members are paid $200 a month. Final fiscal year end pay and benefits for this chart will not be For additional information about available until late 2020. pay and benefits:
comments are scheduled to be allowed.
Summerfield Pay and Benefits Town of Summerfield Summary for FY 2020-2021 has Personnel Policies and Manual not yet been released. P O L- 2 0 0 5 - 0 0 2 , R e v i s e d December 10, 2019 Draft Budget for Fiscal year ending June 30, 2020 was for Budget Calendar nine employees, as the second Planner was not hired. Draft Tuesday, May 19, 2020 - 6:30pm Budget for July 1, 2020 – June at Community Center (could 30, 2021 includes ten employees, change to online). Monthly town including a second Planner and meeting and public comments two part time seasonal positions in general and/or on the budget for the Athletic Park. Annual pay are scheduled to be allowed at increases are estimated to be this meeting. Keep in mind new 2.75%. maximum is 3 minutes for public comments. The draft budget for next fiscal year July 1, 2020 to June 30, Thursday, May 28, 2020 2021 is posted on town website 6:30pm at Community Center – www.summerfieldnc.gov Click Special called meeting to publicly on Administration, and Finance present final draft budget to the and Budget, and FY 2020-2021 public. Print copies for the public Budget Development, and click are usually not available at this on Draft Budget. This may be meeting. Budget related public
Town Hall is open for business and not closed by Covid-19 Stay Home Orders. (The manager said it is ok to stay open as town hall has few visitors.)
Tuesday, June 9, 2020 – 6:30pm at Community Center. June monthly town meeting. Copy of the draft budget is available for view at town hall. 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, Monday – Friday.
Budget can be approved, or changes made, at meetings or a special called meeting prior to June 30, 2020. Town council may also approve Budget Amendments during the Fiscal Year, and can be as much as $502,000 when they decided January 2016 (after the November 2015 election) to purchase the Vandergriff property at the end of Medearis Road. That was a 40% increase in annual spending approved as a Budget Amendment. Budget Amendments are on the Consent Agenda.
SUMMERFIELD SCOOP
SUMMERFIELD DRAFT BUDGET FISCAL YEAR JULY 1, 2020 – JUNE 30, 2021 The draft budget for fiscal year beginning July 1, 2020 is $2,154,797, and projected to keep the same property tax rate (.0275). However, the budget includes $856,072 from Reserves to begin large capital projects. This draft budget shows spending 12% to 14% of Reserves. This Draft Budget for next fiscal year can be changed at any town meeting prior to June 30, 2020. Historically the Reserves/Fund Balance is $6 to $7 million. The Annual Summary – Audit / Budget shows deficits. Dictionary defines “deficit spending” “the practice of spending funds in excess of income, especially by a government.” A small amount is held for future retirement benefits and may be shown as deficit. The Summerfield Annual Income chart shows a property tax income of about $435,000 per year, and with the property tax the town receives sales tax revenue of about $135,000. Other sources of income vary slightly from year to year. The only way the town can raise millions to spend this year, or next year, is to raise property taxes, take on debt which
would also raise property taxes, and/or spend the Reserves. If they spend down the reserves you would have less Investment Income, and reserves would be gone. This fiscal year and next, sales tax revenue is projected to go down, and ABC revenue is increasing. The current town council frequently mentions “grants.” Council should not start projects until they have “grants” in hand for a specific project. The town shows $13,419,000 in total town assets - $6,374,225 represents fixed assets, land and buildings. The most valuable piece of land is probably the 13 acre “Gordon property” at 220 and 150 that has an AV=Assessed Value of $1 million. As commercial property it could have higher value. Government and businesses have cut back on spending for capital projects because of the economic uncertainty we face. This is not the time to begin multi-million dollar projects, and especially with no accurate numbers of cost to build and maintain.
Council Member Teresa Pegram was the only council member that stated opposition and that she would prefer not including any large expenditures in the upcoming budget and instead giving citizens a “tax holiday” because of the challenging economic environment due to the coronavirus pandemic. The mayor and council stated they would proceed with the new town hall (and more) and the manager should post an RFQ for a qualified architect. Thank you to Alicia Flowers who made the motion Jun 9, 2009 to adopt the Annual Budget with a zero property tax rate, and included the funds to build the ball fields. Becky Strickland seconded, and Flowers, Strickland and Dena Barnes voted YES. Bob Williams and John Wray voted NO. The tax holiday served the needs of the people and town business did not suffer. The time is now for similar fiscal conservative actions in our town. Mayor BJ Barnes has stated the dollars are just “gotcha numbers.” The financial information provided to you is from Town Audits, Town Financial Statements, and town documents.
SUMMERFIELD DRAFT BUDGET OVERVIEW FOR JULY 1, 2020 TO JUNE 30, 2021 **Per the Manager letter budget items in RED will be paid from the $6 to $7 million in Reserves. $100,000** $400,000 $1,000,000+
New Town Hall. Architect New town Hall - Construction Services for Capital Outlay New town Hall – Assessed Value of town property at 220 and NC Hwy 150.
$3,000,000 to New town Hall - Manager stated that he and staff need 8,100 sq. ft. building estimate @$300 sq. ft. and extras, and $5,000,000 “The expense of a new facility might be higher than many are expecting. We have the Reserves.” $50,000
Summerfield Welcome Signs
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$100,000
Projected town donation for the “Bandera Farms property.” Piedmont Land Conservancy (PLC) purchased 113 acres at the northern corner of Bunch Road and I-73, in Summerfield. Summerfield and others were asked to contribute to the $575,000 purchase price. At the budget workshop it appears that Scott Whitaker had asked council members to reply to him privately and individually as to what each of them would consider as a donation. Lynne Devaney said, “Do we have to throw our number out before we hear what everybody else says?” Council agreed to a $100,000 donation. Whitaker stated that the property would be a great recreational facility -- trails and equestrian and mountain bike trails in Summerfield. This is a wonderful opportunity for preservation of Bandera Farms. PLC expects to close November 30, 2020. PLC will continue to pursue state funds, grants, matching funds, and local contributions. PLC stated, “Our first step is acquisition, then we will seek funding for development of the trails.”
$100,000
Contract Legal Services
$2,388
Public Record Archiving
$9,300
Administration Training/Education, Per Diem and Travel
$2,200
Rental of Community Center for Meetings
$6,500
Planning Department Training/Education, Per Diem and Travel
$7,000
Planning – Dues and Subscriptions
$1,000
Planning – Development Ordinance (UDO)
$35,000
Land Use Development Plan – Scott Whitaker and Chris York, Planner decided “a Land Use Plan is most critical need.” Whitaker said “Land Use Plan is URGENT! “ Mayor BJ Barnes stated: “People need to know what they can do with their land.”
$15,000
Comprehensive Master Plan Update
$50,000
Consultant – Stewart Engineering – Trail Development. A&Y.
$30,000
Equipment for Parks and Rec
$30,500
Animal Control Shelter
$6,000
TOS – Trails and Open Space Committee Expenses
$20,000
Consultant – TOS – WithersRavenel – Preparing trails map to show projected trails, sidewalks and connectivity
$3,000
History Committee - Property Markers
$3,700
History Committee - Site Projects - Charles Bruce historical marker $1,200 and Bugle Boy wall and plaque $2,500.
$18,500
History Committee – Historical Site Archaeologist
$400,000 to $1 million STRONG BUDGET REQUEST
$6 million to $10 million STRONG TOWN BUDGET REQUEST
TOS Request. (Trails & Open Space) Proposed sidewalk from the tunnel up Summerfield Rd. on the west side, almost one mile, 5’ wide plus 3’curb and gutter. Cost could be $200,000 to $1 million. This is not in the budget yet, but strongly requested. Founders Day 2019 Whitaker designed t-shirts with the new slogan: “Summerfield Road Future Site of the A & Y Greenway.” Whitaker repeated that TOS, and Beth Doggett Kaplan and others strongly want this sidewalk up Summerfield Road. In fact, Jane Doggett would be happy to talk with you about the committee’s request. Call Jane at 336.644.1582 and she also shared her email DoggettJA@gmail.com. If you look at what the committee wants, it appears to be supportive of town using imminent domain for this sidewalk. We support the important work of the Summerfield Fire District, and they are best at determining their needs for their responsibilities. As a separate larger taxing district, with financial resources far in excess of the Town, it is the Fire District responsibility to fund, build and maintain their capital projects. Town of Summerfield does not have millions for a Municipal Water Authority – under the guise of water for the Fire District. Before any cost or project was approved by the Council it was recently reported that Reece Walker, Town Council Member and Summerfield Fire District employee requested to enter into an agreement for the location of the first water tower and the town would pay a share of the cost. WATER is critical to us all. Go to WATER – Page 12-13. Scoop is proud to share with you extensive research by our citizens. There is much to learn.
Shhh. Check Facebook Summerfield Sentinel for the cost and where the sidewalk would go.
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DID YOU KNOW? SUMMERFIELD SCOOP
NEW TOWN PURCHASING ORDINANCE ORD-2020-001 Effective Date 3-11-20 – Feel free to check on the town website for additional details. March 10th at the monthly town meeting the council approved a new Purchasing Ordinance. The Manager and Finance Officer recommended the new Ordinance and BJ Barnes, Tim Sessoms, Lynne Williams Devaney, John O’Day, and Reece Walker approved with no discussion. Scoop is providing exclusive coverage and some important details that may be of interest to taxpayers and those that would like to work with town business. The formal advertised bid process. The major change is that until March 10, 2020 the manager was required to use a formal, advertised, competitive bid process for over $30,000. The new Purchase Ordinance, for $30,000 and above, now only requires formal advertised bids over $90,000 for supplies, materials and equipment, and only requires formal bids for over $500,000 for construction or repair contracts. Therefore, some formal bid requirements for the town have gone from $30,000 to $500,000.
NCGS 143-131. The informal bid process requires competitive pricing to be obtained in a written manner, and requests are made to several sources who may be able to provide the goods and services. Following council approval the manager can then move ahead with a contract. NCGS 143-129. The formal bid process the manager consults with staff and consultants as necessary to develop and prepare specifications for formal bidding for advertisement, receipt and public opening of all sealed bids at the same time. The formal bid deemed in the best interest of the Town is forwarded by the manager as a recommendation to the Council for Council approval at a public town meeting. A contract shall be implemented appropriately following Council selection. The town ordinance does recommend broad considerations for Purchasing: Planning, Local Buying and Buying Proper Quality. There is also a simple purchase policy for items less than $1,000 that requires approval and receipt. Purchases $1,000 to $29,999 are approved by the manager with documentation, contract, and/or service agreement. Of course all purchases require professional accounting procedures and oversight.
The town can now use informal bids from $30,000 up to $90,000 for supplies, materials and equipment, and informal bids up to $500,000 for construction and repairs.
Manager Scott Whitaker stated he recommended changes to increase the thresholds for formal and informal bidding as the existing policy was “clunky.” Whitaker also said, “The formal bid process takes too long.” Town Finance Officer Dee Hall said the new Ordinance “will save the town money.”
These guidelines are in NC Statutes that are included in this Town Ordinance ORD-2020.001. North Carolina does not require informal bids up to $500,000. A municipality can determine a threshold for formal bid requirements of $30,000 to $499,000 and require a contract.
The mayor, Barnes, and four council members, Sessoms, DeVaney, O’Day, and Walker, approved the change allowing informal bids from $30,000 to $500,000, and represents how decisions will be made with spending taxpayer money. Is this the promised improvement in transparency?
ETHICS COMMITTEE VOTES TO SUSPEND AICP CERTIFICATION OF SUMMERFIELD TOWN PLANNER – CHRIS YORK Summerfield Town Planner Chris York (aka Bobby Christopher) received notice from the AICP Ethics Officer that his professional certification was suspended from AICP, American Institute of Certified Planners, the professional institute of the APA, American Planning Association, per the following cite: “Ethics rule, Section B. 25. “We shall neither deliberately, nor with reckless indifference, commit any wrongful act, whether or not specified in the rules of Conduct, that reflects adversely on our professional fitness.” The American Institute of Certified Planners provides the only nationwide, independent verification of planers’ qualifications. They require the highest standards of ethical and professional conduct. This is an unfortunate reflection of Town leadership and how we are recognized as a professional organization.
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• Custom Homes • Roofing • Renovations • Additions
SCOOP MADE IT TO THE TOP IN RECORD SPEED!
Thank you Alan and Pam Sudderth!
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SUMMERFIELD SCOOP
HELPFUL CONTACT INFORMATION FOR YOU! TOWN COUNCIL CONTACTS
TOWN STAFF CONTACTS
ZONING BOARD
TRAILS AND OPEN SPACE COMMITTEE (TOS)
BJ BARNES, MAYOR (term ends 12/21) 2709 Pleasant Ridge Road Summerfield, NC 27358 (336) 643.5972 – home BBarnes@Summerfieldnc.gov
SCOTT WHITAKER TOWN MANAGER Town Hall: PO Box 970 Summerfield NC 27358 Town Hall at NC Hwy 150 & Summerfield Rd. (336) 643.8655 – town hall (336) 520.7469 – cell
RICHARD L. (DICK) FEULNER, CHAIR (term ends 2/21) (336) 643.5680 DFeulner@triad.rr.com
SUE BEESON, VICE CHAIR (term ends 7/20) (336) 643.3838 ssabeeson@aol.com
GEORGE (JEFF) DAVIS, VICE CHAIR (term ends 7/23) (336) 298.4653 GJD8650@aol.com
JANE DOGGETT, CHAIR (term ends 7/20) (336) 644.1582 DoggettJA@gmail.com
TIM SESSOMS, MAYOR PRO-TEM (term ends 12/21) 6507 Horseman Trail Summerfield, NC 27358 (336) 803.0322 – cell TSessoms@summerfieldnc.gov
LYNNE WILLIAMS DEVANEY (term ends 12/23) 7503 Strawberry Road Summerfield, NC 27358 (336) 215.5335 – cell LDevaney@summerfieldnc.gov JOHN O’DAY (term ends 12/23) 7013 Mustang Court Summerfield, NC 27358 (336) 392.6517 (336) 643.0804 JOday@summerfieldnc.gov TERESA PEGRAM (term ends 12/21) 7401 Greenlawn Drive Summerfield, NC 27358 (336) 643.2610 TPegram@summerfieldnc.gov REECE WALKER (term ends 12/23) 7046 Summerfield Road Summerfield, NC 27358 (336) 706.3195 RWalker@summerfieldnc.gov
WANT TO SERVE ON A COMMITTEE?
CHRIS YORK, TOWN PLANNER (336) 643.8681 – town hall cyork@summerfieldnc.gov LANCE HEATER, TOWN CLERK (336) 643. 8655 – town hall Clerk@summerfieldnc.gov DEE HALL, FINANCE OFFICER (336) 643.8655 – town hall dhall@summerfieldnc.gov CHERYL GORE, MANAGER ASSISTANT/ EVENTS COORDINATOR (336) 643.8655 – town hall CGore@summerfieldnc.gov JEFF GOARD, PARKS AND RECREATION DIRECTOR (336) 643.8655 – town hall JGoard@summerfieldnc.gov TOWN ATTORNEY Robert (Bob) E. Hornik Kevin Hornik The Brough Law Firm Chapel Hill, NC
GO TO VOLUNTEERS NEEDED ON THE TOWN WEBSITE WWW.SUMMERFIELDNC.GOV SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION BY MAY 15, OR LATER
SUMMERFIELD SCOOP
KATHY ROONEY (term ends 7/22) (336) 643.7878 – home (336) 209.0378 – cell info@rolfingassociates.com TRUDY WHITACRE (term ends 2/21) (336) 643.2131 – home TKWhitacre@gmail.com SCOTT HENSON (term ends 7/23) (336) 740.4655 – home (336) 393.4574 – work hensoncs@sbcglobal.net
ZONING BOARD ALTERNATES
CLINT BABCOCK (term ends 4/20) (336) 918.0256 Clint@vettedude.com WALTER DOGGETT (CLARK) (term ends 4/20) (336) 202.8899. KG4HOM@hotmail.com FRANCIS FICCA (FRANK) (term ends 4/20) (term ends 4/20) (336) 937.2985 Fjficca@gmail.com RYAN MOATS (term ends 7/21) (336) 580.3905 RyanCMoats@yahoo.com
DEAN MARTIN (term ends 7/22) (704) 215.0746 Wm.d.martin@gmail.com CARY GENTRY (term ends 7/22) (336) 215.1820 GentryCDWeather@gmail.com JENNIE TAYLOR (term ends 7/21) (540) 953.2225 writefarmerjennie@gmail.com BILL KING (term ends 7/20) (212) 388.1751 Nyckings2nc@gmail.com PAUL LAMBRECHT (term ends 7/21) (336) 255.0402 Paul.lanbrecht@volvo.com TRUDY WHITACRE (term ends 7/20) (336) 643.2131 TKWhitacre@gmail.com NEALA JONES (term ends 7/21) (703) 447.0548 nealandave@hotmail.com
CONTACT INFORMATION IS AVAILABLE AT WWW.SUMMERFIELDNC.GOV
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PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT FOR SUMMERFIELD!
LET’S EAT! Summerfield has a number of excellent choices for take-out and delivery food services. We also look forward to eat in restaurants when that is available.
ALL ARE SUMMERFIELD, NC 27358 AND AREA CODE 336 UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE. HOURS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.
MAMA GINNA’S Scoop Favorite!
336.643.7779
HAVANA FLAVOR FOOD TRUCK Cuban Restaurant – Specialize in the best sandwiches and Hispanic food. Takeout and delivery. 4432 US 220 (813) 263 – 0978 Daily 10:45am – 6:30pm. Hours may change under current circumstances. https://www.zmenu.com/havanaflavor-summer field-2- online menu/
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LUIGI’S RESTAURANT BAR PIZZERIA Scoop Favorite! Pizza and wide variety of great Italian food with excellent wine service. Mon – Thurs 11am – 9:30pm Fri and Sat 11am – 10:30pm Sun 12noon – 9pm
RIO GRANDE MEXICAN GRILL 1011 NC Hwy 150 W 643 – 8185 https://www.RioSummer field. com/ Check the website for a variety of foods. To Go Family packs for 6 - $39.99 Mon – Thurs 11am -8:30pm Fri - Sat 11am – 9pm Sun 11am – 8:30pm
CENTER GROVE GRILL & SODA SHOP 998B NC Highway 150 W Greensboro, North Carolina 27455 Located at corner of NC Hwy 150 W and Lake Brandt Rd. Summerfield with Greensboro address on that side of Lake Brandt Rd. 643 - 8089 FACEBOOK: Center Grove Grill and Soda Shop https://www. centergrovegrillandsodashop. com/menu Check the menu for a variety of dishes Also serve Hershey’s Ice Cream! Mon – Fri 10am – 8pm Sat 8a – 3pm (serving breakfast) Closed Sunday Special: Chicken Pot Pie $21.99 Serves 4 -6. Frozen to take home and ready to bake.
GODINO’S BAKERY & COFFEE HOUSE 1007-A NC Hwy West, At the corner of Lake Brandt Rd and Highway 150 Hillsdale Village Shopping Center Hot and cold drinks, gelato, cupcakes, cookies, cheesecake by the slice, mini pies, incredibly delicious pastries and more 298 – 7452 www.GodinosBakery.com Mon-Fri 7am – 6pm Sat 8am – 6pm Closed Sunday
DOMINO’S PIZZA Next to Center Grove Grill & Soda Shop 643 – 6002 NC Hwy 150 & Lake Brandt Rd. Dominos.com Sun – Thurs 10:30am – 10pm Fri – Sat 10:30am – 11pm
THE JUMPING BEAN A Coffee Drive Thru 4519 IS 220 601 – 7807 Mon – Fri 6am – 6pm Sat – Sun 8am - 3pm Hours may change under current circumstances
SUBWAY 4446 US Hwy 200 N 643 – 3388 https://www.subway.com/en-us Daily: 10:30am – 7pm
PAPA JOHN’S PIZZA 4446 US Hwy 220 N Suite F 644 – 7117 PapaJohns.com Daily: 10am – 11pm
THE FOOD LION GROCERY STORE OF SUMMERFIELD Everything you need in a grocery store! 4548 US-220, Corner of 220 N and Hwy 150 643 – 0979 FoodLion.com /stores /savings https://www.foodlion.com/stores/nc/summerfield/1355/ Daily: 7am – 11pm Food Lion has a variety of prepared meals, side dishes, and desserts to take home. Roasted rotisserie chicken to go for $5 to $8.
PEKING WOK Chinese Food – Hunan, Szechuan & Cantonese Excellent reviews. 4446-H US Hwy 220 N 643 - 6898 Mon – Sat 11am – 8pm Sun 12noon – 8pm https://www.zmenu.com/pekingwok-summerfield-online-menu/
Next to Food Lion is the ABC LIQUOR STORE https://www.ncabcboards.com/ www.greensboroABC.com 643 – 3910 Mon – Sat - 11am – 7pm Closed Sunday
SCOOP WANTS TO HEAR ABOUT OTHER FOOD OPTIONS IN SUMMERFIELD!
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WATER! As soon as they took the Oath of Office on December 10, 2019 Mayor BJ Barnes (former Sheriff), and council members Tim Sessoms, Lynne Williams Devaney, John O’Day, and Reece Walker voted YES for a Resolution to establish an Area Water Authority for Local Water Investment for Summerfield – “special water-related needs” -water infrastructure for the Fire District. They made this decision before they took the Oath, and as far as we know, they had no information about cost or liability to the Town taxpayers they were elected to serve. (Note: Their lack of transparency, that was promised that same night, is shocking for this cost prohibitive expenditure.) Town Council Member Teresa Pegram voted NO and stated opposition to the Town taking on responsibility for capital needs of the Summerfield Fire District, a separate taxing body. Water is a critical need and we need to be accurate and respectful of any and all municipal decisions that are made for infrastructure and use of our Town water. Scott Whitaker, Town Manager, recently stated, “the Town has desperate needs for meeting space and water for the Fire Department,” so other things are not a high priority. Are those “desperate needs?” Facts to keep in mind: 1. Town of Summerfield is 26.56 square miles -- the Fire District is 42 square miles. 2. Summerfield Fire District levies a property tax FIVE TIMES greater than the Town, and has a greater capacity to levy taxes and grant funding for their needs. 3. Town property tax and sales tax income is only about $560,000 a year, and over 100% is for Town staff expenses. 4. If the Town is going to spend the $6 to $7 million reserves, and or take on debt, the taxpayers
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should make that decision via a Referendum. 5. The 1996 contract between Guilford County and the Town of Summerfield has provision for fire protection services to continue for the town. 6. The Fire District is responsible to Guilford County to approve their Fire District tax levy and monitor their services. 7. Town of Summerfield homeowner fire protection insurance has an excellent low rating of THREE, and with overall low density the rating should stay low. 8. The three Fire Stations in Summerfield, each has a water tanker, reported to be 3,000 gallons, 1,200 gallons, and 1,500 gallons. 9. Firefighters have reported that it takes on average 200 gallons or less to extinguish a fire. IF, in the future, there is a “critical” or “bad fire” they call on other fire districts for assistance. (Note; “Bad fire” quote from Mayor BJ Barnes). 10. The Fire District is reported to have 15 – 26 water points such as the lakes at Polo Farms. Using water points would help keep our wells safe and benefit our environment. 11. The Town offered to the Fire District the property next to the Fire Station on Summerfield Road. 12. Cost? The Town’s own estimate from a while ago, and on the town website, for a large water tower was $5.7 million, plus using the 13 acre $1 million property on 220 and 150, plus cost of additional infrastructure. 13. Why does this appear to be the only option? 14. The Town and our citizens support the firefighters and the many services they provide. This large expense is only related to structure fires. Let’s look at the accurate data of structure fires, from the Fire District statistics. March 10, 2020 the council majority voted for a contract to pay Wooten $3,000 to update the Wooten Study for water towers
and/or fire hydrants. That contract was handed to each council member just before the meeting, and is not in the public record at this time. (Transparency?)
Summerfield Town meetings in 2019:
Scott Whitaker, while promoting a Municipal Water Authority, at the direction of the majority of Town Council, stated that Summerfield has a “History of structures burning down due to lack of water availability.” The following proves that statement is not true, and a false assumption.
Like 2016, Summerfield Fire District responded to total of 27 total structure fire incidents in 2015. Like 2016, of these 27, only 9 were within the Summerfield Fire Protection District (66% of all structure fire incidents responded to were in other fire districts).
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Jan 40, Feb 21, Mar 22, Apr 19, Jun 25, Jul 29, Aug 38, Sep 38, Oct 27, Nov 31, Dec 29. The original Wooten Study stated: Total = 312 “Commercial development could tie to the system to provide These events also occurred in fire supply water for their 2019 per town minutes: development(s),” and “Provides • Nov-19: Council Member Teresa a good backbone for a potable Pegram requested data on calls water system should the Town within the Town limits and was ever decide to install one.” informed by Jenna Daniels that it is tracked by fire district and not NEWS Exclusive: Summerfield corporate limits. Scoop is proud to share with • Apr-19: In response to a question you a recap of five years from Pegram, Fire Chief Johnson of Structure Fire Incident stated that he did not have Reports, extensive research statistical information for calls by our citizens, through Public located solely within the Town Record Requests, with their of Summerfield. The following commitment to you and our should be helpful. Town safety. Thank you for their time and expertise to give 2015 Structure Fire Incident us answers. Reports
Fire Chief Chris Johnson, Jenna Daniels, and Reece Walker, Town Council Member and Firefighter, were asked but did not provide the information.
Unlike 2016, of the 9 in Summerfield Fire District, only 2 were within Summerfield municipal town limits (only 7.4% of all incidents were in municipal town limits).
No fire, no smoke, no heat, no 2019 Report of Fire Incidents source of origin could be found on one of the structure fires in According to Town of Summerfield town limits, so why was it called minutes, Summerfield Fire District a structure fire at all? reported that they responded to total of 312 Fire Incidents in 2019. Second structure fire in town IF this is the case then why did limits was a “fully involved they only submit 52 Fire Incident structure fire”. Very unfortunate reports to the NC Department of for the homeowner. The incident Insurance/State Fire Marshal’s report on this structure fire is office for 2019? Even if you informative. take into account Hazardous Condition and False Calls, there Notable points: is a wide disparity in the 312 • In the three years of incident mentioned in Town minutes. reports (2015, 2016, and 2018) Fire call count as verbally this is the only “fully involved” reported by Chris Johnson structure fire within town limits, and Jenna Daniels in open and only the second “fully
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involved” structure fire in all the Summerfield Fire Protection District (the other was in rural Guilford County, but did not require water haul). (Five months of 2017 are missing. Public Record Request information was provided over a period of time). • In the three years of incident reports for the entire fire protection district, this is the only incident with report documents: Report completed by Chief Johnson. 1. Setup of an on-site drop tank. 2. Assignment of a named onsite water supply officer. 3. Designation of trucks involved in the water haul. 4. Documented number of gallons of water handled during water haul. By evidence of this report, it shows that this one incident, of the few structure fire incidents (where fire actually existed on arrival) that required water were extinguished using water brought on scene by first responders for the years 2015, 2016, and 2018. 2016 Structure Fire Incident Reports Summerfield Fire District responded to total of 27 structure fire incidents in 2016. Of these, 9 were within the Summerfield Fire Protection District (66% of all structure fire incidents responded to were in other fire districts). Of the 9 in Summerfield Fire District, 6 were within Summerfield municipal town limits (only 22% of all incidents were in municipal town limits). Of the 6, two fires were already extinguished before fire department arrival. Of the remaining 4, it is clear that 3 were extinguished using water brought on scene by first responders. Last incident report of 2016 makes it clear water from first response pumper & tanker was used to attack fire in storage unit behind house. Report is silent on equipment used to shuttle water.
More details on the 6 structure action on 12 of 20 structure fires. fire incidents in municipal town Five of the 12 were extinguished limits in 2016: using something other than • One fire was extinguished by water. Most were extinguished occupant with a cup of water using Fire Extinguisher. One before arrival of Summerfield was extinguished by the Fire Chief carrying a pot outside the Fire Dept. • Two fires extinguished with building. water brought on scene by first response pumper/tanker. One of Six of the 12 were extinguished these was at Janelle Robinson’s using water brought on scene house. The other was small by first responders (i.e. Pumpers outbuilding on fire. and Tankers arrive on scene • A small fire was found on the carrying water). cabinet near the stove. It was extinguished using water brought Only 1 of the 12 structure fires on scene by first responders. in the 5 year analysis period • Found food had been burnt on required shuttling water. That the stove creating small amount event occurred in 2015. of smoke inside the residence and fire was out Bottom line, reports filed • Fire in storage unit behind by Summerfield Fire Inc., house. Water brought on scene provided by NC State by first responders was used. Department of Insurance/ No statement that drop-tank Office of State Fire Marshal, established on scene, so not tells us only 1 of 12 structure sure that water shuttling ever fires in years between 2015 occurred. and 2019 required the hauling of any water. Update: Received all 2019 incident reports. Also received 2018 Structure Fire last quarter of 2014. Balance of Incident Reports 2017 incident reports (5 months) are not available from State Fire • It appears that Summerfield Fire Marshal’s office. Apparently “that responded to only 16 structure data was never submitted to fire incidents. FEMA or the State Fire Marshal’s • Six of those were within local Office” (their words). All total, County Fire Protection. have 50 months of incident reports • Of those 6, only 3 were within (nearly 5 years’) representing municipal boundaries of Town of data submitted to State Fire Summerfield. Marshal’s office between Oct 1, • One of those 3 was already 2014 to Dec 31, 2019. (Requests extinguished before Fire District are on file to provide all months.) arrived, and the other 2 were chimney fires extinguished 2015 – 2019 Structure Fire with dry chemical and CO2 fire Investigation Reports extinguishers. • Zero structure fire incidents “Structure Fire Incidents” contains within municipal town boundaries details about all structure fire required any water in 2018. incidents in Summerfield for 2015 to 2019 (partial for 2014). 2019 Structure Fire Summary tells us there were Investigation Reports total of 20 Structure Fire Incidents in Summerfield The Summerfield Fire District between 2015 and 2019. responded to 35 structure fire Extensive file reports are incidents in 2019. Of the 35, only available for 2015 to 2019. 11 were in the Summerfield Fire Of the 20, 8 fires were out on District (58% were outside the arrival. This means Summerfield district). Of the 11, seven were Fire only performed “Extinguish” within Town municipal boundaries
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(20% of all structure fire incidents within municipal boundaries). Details on the seven within the Town municipal boundaries: • One chimney fire (no water haul required). • Homeowner had put a lid on the pot that was on fire. • Homeowner had extinguished fire before arrival. • Home owner extinguished the fire with a Fire Extinguisher. • Fire extinguished before arrival. Sheriff’s deputy used ABC extinguisher. • Fire extinguished with single hand-line before fire or smoke entered the structure • House fire, not fully involved. Tanker supplied water. It was said that this request for the Town taxpayers to fund the Fire District “complies with the Comprehensive Master Plan.” That is not true. Comprehensive Plan Policy 5.8: “New developments may be required to size and design water retention facilities to serve as WATER RESERVOIRS TO ENHANCE NEARBY FIRE FIGHTING CAPABILITIES.” (A water reservoir is a water point, and can enhance an area.) The Comp Plan says nothing about town bankrolling, subsidizing, underwriting, or otherwise paying for water improvements for fire protection. If that were the case, every developer could demand town pay for their water system needed to provide enhanced firefighting capability for their developments. Since “Town of Summerfield” does not have a history of structure fires, then water points and requiring new development to have a water reservoir, and some use of well water, would be sufficient. Commercial development must meet specific state fire codes, and they would be responsible – NOT the taxpayers in the Town of Summerfield.
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MARCH 31, 2020, A LAWSUIT WAS FILED AGAINST THE TOWN OF SUMMERFIELD HOMEOWNERS HAVE HAD ENOUGH AND A STORM (WATER) HAS BEEN BREWING FOR A LONG TIME. We should ALL be concerned. This was the town’s FIRST PD Planned Development – and residential property adjacent to commercial property has been harmed since 2013. 20 CVS 4338 IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA GUILFORD COUNTY Plaintiffs, (homeowners) VS. Defendants, including HOSKINS PROPERTY LLC, HOSKINS HOUSE OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC. FLEMING ENGINEERING, INC.AND THE TOWN OF SUMMERFIELD, NORTH CAROLINA. COMPLAINT JURY TRIAL DEMANDED Lawsuit includes: FACTUAL BACKGROUND FIRST CLAIM FOR RELIEF (Specific Performance) SECOND CLAIM FOR RELIEF (Injunctive Relief) THIRD CLAIM FOR RELIEF (Nuisance) FOURTH CLAIM FOR RELIEF (Trespass) FIFTH CLAIM FOR RELIF (Intended Third Party Beneficiary – Against The Town of Summerfield and Fleming Engineering) PRAYER FOR RELIEF Attorney for the Plaintiffs: Andrew L. Fitzgerald FITZGERALD LITIGATION 119 Brookstown Avenue, Suite 402 Winston-Salem NC 27101 336.793.4365 – telephone Andy@FitzgeraldLitigation.com
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MAP. 7504 Summerfield Rd., Summerfield NC 27358 MAP Note: Summerfield Road on the left on the map. Reported that July 2004 rezoning was approved by the Town from RS-30 (residential) to LB/Limited Business, Town Core District--Mixed Use and Scenic Core Overlay districts. Lot 1 is the Hoskins House, subdivided 15,009 sq. ft. Lot 2 is the Guilford County Sheriff Office, subdivided 15,031 sq. ft., built in 2013, Lot 3 is new construction in the center of the planned development (subdivided 15,131 sq. ft.) and Parking area for lot 3, (subdivided 15,104.) Lot 3 and parking show created on the map dated December 1, 2017. Remaining 29,654 sq. ft. is HOA (owners) common area. Total site for the PD-Planned Development is 2.06 acres. The serious problem with storm water runoff and destruction onto private homeowner property began in 2013 when the Guilford County Sheriff Sub-station (Lot 2 on the map) was constructed. BJ Barnes was Sheriff and Scott Whitaker was Town Manager at the time of that planning and construction. Summerfield Scoop has been covering this story with videos and photos since early 2019, and it appears there is serious water erosion damage to homeowner property, and insufficient environmental protection from storm water damages. Scott Whitaker, Town Manager, and Chris York, Town Planner have had responsibility to represent the town.
The new draft U.D.O. (Unified Development Ordinance) includes expansion of higher density that could make this worse! One comment from Zoning about the new UDO – “The whole town could be a PD.” The draft UDO includes over double the density, apartment buildings, and more. Manager Scott Whitaker recently stated of this property, “The town was not involved regarding design of the erosion control device. The town never owned property within that site, has never constructed any improvements on it. Whitaker said that the town’s role has been one of reviewing development plans at different stages.” If the town has “little to no role” please check PLANNING on the town website -- and why budget $270,000 for Planning plus administration, attorneys, engineering, and other expenses up to $400,000 a year, or more? That is taxpayer money – but who is the town representing?
To view a short video of the storm water damage go to:
www.YouTube.com Summerfield Scoop “Lawsuit: Storm Water Continues to Ruin Property” https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=MfuAJQ1TLfM
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THERE IS MORE TO THE HISTORY OF 7504 SUMMERFIELD ROAD The Hoskins House was built in 1917 and is a wonderful historic building for Summerfield. The changes that began in 2004 are also part of the history. Records include the rezoning of the 2.06 acre home and property from residential to limited business, town core mixed use and town core district. It is reported that 2004 the house had renovations to create a real estate office. The town also approved major sub-dividing of the property July 30, 2010. October 8, 2013 there was a re-zoning of 34.26 acres at Deboe Road and Hwy 150 that had been purchased by Paul Milam and David Couch. The 34.26 acre re-zoning linked with 45 acres that had previously been re-zoned commercial. Dena Barnes, Council Member and wife of Sheriff BJ Barnes, voted with the 3 -2 majority for the very controversial commercial rezoning. November 7, 2013, only a month later, Paul Milam transferred ownership of Lot 2 at the Hoskins House to Guilford County for the County Sheriff substation for $511,000. BJ Barnes, Sheriff at that time, Scott Whitaker, Town Manager, and Paul Milam, developer/builder began design meetings 2012 for the Sheriff Substation at Lot 2 at Hoskins House property and proceed with construction in 2013 to complete the 5,280 sq. ft. building. The building was cleared for occupancy October 16, 2013, and Deed transfer November 7, 2013. The severe problems with run off and storm water management began with the construction of the Sheriff Substation. This makes us wonder, why was there not a remedy during the past five years?
DO YOU WANT YOUR BACK YARD TO LOOK LIKE THIS OR WORSE?
DID YOU KNOW? Town Planner and Zoning Board “decided to remove the term “multifamily” as an allowed use in the UDO with the understanding that up to four separate residences in a single building are classified as a “single family dwelling.” (October 21, 2019 Zoning Board Minutes)
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MAY 2020