Winter 2014

Information You Can Use

Artwork dedicated in Historic Downtown Concord

Remembering Council Member Hector H. Henry, II

WINTER 2014

City Council

Mayor’s Golf Tournament supports youth programs David W. Phillips District 1

Ella Mae Small District 3

James E. Ramseur District 2

The sixteenth annual Mayor’s Golf Tournament was held at Rocky River Golf Club in September.

This year, 144 golfers helped raise approximately $7,500 in support of our community’s youth. A special thank you goes to the sponsors that help make the event possible, as well as the City and golf course staff members who organize the event and volunteer their time and effort..

Alfred M. Brown, Jr. District 4

Thank you to our Eagle Sponsors:

W. Lamar Barrier District 5 Mayor Pro-Tem

John A. Sweat, Jr. District 7

In this Issue:

COVER PHOTO: CITY OF CONCORD/L.J. WESLOWSKI

From the Mayor | Manager’s Notes . . . . . . . . 3 Artwork dedicated in Historic Downtown . . . . . 4 The Concord City Circular is produced quarterly by the City Manager’s Office to provide Concord citizens with information about current activities of the City of Concord. It contains items that will help make it easier for you to do business with the City.

Your comments and questions are welcomed. Please send them to: Concord City Circular P.O. Box 308, Concord, NC 28026 or call 704-920-5210 or e-mail franzese@concordnc.gov. designed by

Granite Sky Design, Inc.

Finance, Police departments improvements . . . 5 City coworkers donate and raise money . . . . . . 6 Do your part: underground power systems . . . . 7 Concord sweeps Public Power awards . . . . . . 8 Partnership with Habitat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Visit concordnc.gov to subscribe to the CityLink email newsletter, and receive weekly updates and information about Concord direct to your inbox.

When Neighbors start talking . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Ray Allen promoted to Fire Chief . . . . . . . . . . 12 Introducing new solid waste manager . . . . . . 13 Community input requested . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Prepare for winter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . back

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Stay connected with Concord through facebook!

Simply scan the QR code with your smartphone or go to facebook. com/concordnc.

From the Mayor

Manager’s Notes

J. Scott Padgett

Brian Hiatt, Concord City Manager

To read this issue’s From the Mayor, please visit the City’s website

Council Member Hector H. Henry, II – remembering a local hero The City of Concord mourns the passing of Council Member Hector H. Henry, II, who passed away on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 28, 2013.

Dr. Henry was serving his ninth term as a member of City Council, including two years as Mayor Pro-Tem. The longest-serving of the current elected officials, he was first elected in 1973 and served continuously with the exception of a four-year rest between 1989 and 1993.

Life, Well Run In 2014 there will be an anniversary celebrated in North Carolina that will go unnoticed by many, when the International City and County Management Association (ICMA) holds its one hundredth annual conference in Charlotte. Thousands of attendees from across the United States and many other countries will come to Charlotte in September. The selection of Charlotte as the site for this important milestone was not by accident as the councilmanager form of government has a long and rich history in North Carolina.

The council-manager form of government was born out of the government reform movement at the beginning of the twentieth century. Many business and political leaders were concerned about the hiring and financial abuses taking place in local government at the time.

Some of the more visible problems were occurring in larger communities controlled by political “bosses” who used local government to reward family members and supporters in order to stay in power, and in some cases to enhance their own pocketbooks. Business leaders in a few communities started talking about how local governments could be run in a more business-like fashion with an emphasis on sound financial management, and hiring and retaining workers based on merit. The idea of the governing body appointing a non-partisan and nonpolitical professional manager to oversee operations was born.

CITY OF CONCORD/L.J. WESLOWSKI

Aside from his service to the City of Concord, Henry was also known to the community as urologist, surgeon, health activist, and philanthropist. A retired Colonel in the United States Army Reserves Medical Corps, Henry served many tours of duty overseas, as recently as Afghanistan in 2009 and ranging back to the Persian Gulf and Vietnam eras.

Henry passed away after complications from a form of blood cancer called myelodysplastic syndromes. He encouraged members of the community to register as bone marrow donors, not for his own benefit but rather for the 10,000 Americans who are in need of a transplant each year.

In July, the City Council voted to name the future greenway along the Rocky River in honor of Henry—an overwhelming surprise to him.

continued on page 15

In 1908, Staunton, Virginia created the first position that legally defined, by ordinance, the broad authority and responsibility associated with today’s professional local government manager. Sumter, South Carolina was the first city to adopt a charter incorporating the basic principles of council-manager government in 1912. Cities in North Carolina started to take notice quickly with Hickory and Morganton taking steps to adopt plans in 1913. North Carolina counties were also leaders with Durham County and Robeson County adopting plans in the 1930’s.

Today almost all municipalities in North Carolina with populations greater than five thousand have adopted the council-manager form of government. Even many smaller communities that use the mayor-council form employ a full time administrator to handle daily operations. Under the system today the power and authority to ultimately continued on page 14 concordnc.gov WINTER 2014 CONCORD CITY CIRCULAR 3

PHOTOS: CITY OF CONCORD/L.J. WESLOWSKI

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istoric Downtown Concord’s newest public art was dedicated in October by the Mayor and City Council. At the ceremony, officials celebrated two new murals, which replaced existing artwork in the Union-Market Passageway and the Bicentennial Parking Lot. A committee consisting of Council Members Jim Ramseur and Ella Mae Small, and staff members from the City of Concord, Cabarrus Arts Council, and Concord Downtown Development Corporation began work in 2012 to recommend artists for each project.

Artwork dedicated in Historic Downtown Concord

Charlotte artist Isaac Payne was selected in December 2012 to create original art to be enlarged for the side of the building owned by Jerry and Marsha Kelly at 14 Church Street S, adjacent to the Bicentennial parking lot. The new mural depicts an abstract street scene that appears to blend into the surrounding environment.

Sharon Dowell, also from Charlotte, was selected in May to create eight windowshaped murals for the Union-Market Passageway. The art is attached to the side of the building at 48 Union Street S owned by John and Judy McCrimmon.

Dowell used old photographs to create a contemporary tribute to several historic places and buildings.

Concord Mayor Scott Padgett complimented the mural committee and the artists, who blended an appreciation of local history with excitement for the future.

“Both works demonstrate aspects of Concord that give us pride,” said Padgett. “Ms. Dowell has represented our history with images of the places and structures that formed this community in its early years. Mr. Payne has 4 CONCORD CITY CIRCULAR WINTER 2014 concordnc.gov

Artist Isaac Payne created wall mural

visually created Concord’s essence, by using familiar architectural themes and depicting the interaction of citizens.”

In November, the City Council asked the mural committee to study what group should be formed to guide future Downtown public art projects.

View more photos at www.flickr.com/photos/concordnc/ sets/72157636942891265/ Artist Sharon Dowell created eight panels

Finance, Police departments improve productivity and customer service In November, two departments were honored with the 2013 Productivity Improvement Award, having a tie for the first time in its history. The award is presented annually to departments, divisions, or work teams who demonstrate significant improvements or efforts in performance or productivity. Winning efforts typically result in staff time or work saved, processes streamlined, and dollars saved.

The Finance Department’s Customer Service team, led by Finance Director Pam Hinson and Customer Service Manager Tammy Linn, implemented several strategies to better serve customers calling into the Customer Care Center (704-920-5555). The team’s focus has shifted to maximizing the customer experience and fully meeting their needs rather than minimizing the amount of time for each call.

CITY OF CONCORD/L.J. WESLOWSKI

Many improvements were technical, such as expanding phone system capacity and providing customers an option to quickly opt-out of speaking with a representative if preferred, which reduces wait times.

Flexibility and cross-training has improved the walk-in and phone-based representatives’ ability to absorb high customer volumes. A major effort has included addressing as many customer needs as possible without transferring to other coworkers.

The Police Department’s Telephone Reporting Unit (TRU), led by Chief Guy Smith and Major Wendell Rummage,

was launched in December 2010 to assist customers when a response from an officer is not required. Two non-sworn positions take certain reports and help keep sworn officers’ time directed towards hot spots and solving neighborhood problems that impact quality of life. The TRU took twelve percent of all calls for service in fiscal year 2012, and thirteen percent in fiscal year 2013.

These figures correspond closely to the twelve percent increase in problem solving projects opened by officers between fiscal years 2011 and 2013.

The increase is one indicator of officers having more uncommitted time in the field—helping resources go further.

Congratulations to both of these teams who have made substantial gains in productivity and customer service.

PHOTOS: CITY OF CONCORD/CHERIE JZAR

Civic Education instills knowledge and community pride in students Good citizenship begins with a sound understanding of government. In Concord, a partnership with Cabarrus County Schools is building citizenship through the third-grade Civic Education program.

At the end of the program, students can identify the basic structure and authority of City government; identify the major taxes and other revenues for local government; and describe the ways citizens participate in local government.

Currently, six elementary schools participate in the program and the City is working to add more. Students learn about many City departments and programs through interactive presentations, demonstrations, and facility tours. The program provides students with an awareness of municipal services and a basic understanding of City government, which develops civically informed and engaged citizens.

This past summer, City staff participants met with Cabarrus County Schools representatives to brainstorm ideas for improving the program. With the insight gained from those meetings, a curriculum was developed that better aligns the program instruction with district and state learning standards.

provide us with a great opportunity to share with them the meaning and importance of public service,” said City Manager Brian Hiatt. “This is a chance to explain the ABCs of their local government and make the students aware of things they never imagined.”

Engaging students at an impressionable age will hopefully lead to more curiosity and encourage them to connect with and take pride in their community.

The City looks forward to a continued partnership with Cabarrus County Schools and growth of the Civic Education program.

“As public servants, we believe these visits to local elementary schools concordnc.gov WINTER 2014 CONCORD CITY CIRCULAR 5

City coworkers donate and raise money for United Way agencies CITY OF CONCORD/CHERIE JZAR

Twelfth Concord 101 class completes program The Concord 101 class of 2013 was recognized on December 3 with a graduation ceremony at Fire Station Nine. This year’s class included twenty-three active participants, who were thanked at the ceremony by Mayor Pro-Tem Jim Ramseur for their involvement in the program.

Concord 101 is designed to inform citizens about their local government. Participants met on Tuesday nights and learned about what it takes to run City services such as solid waste and recycling, public utilities, police, fire, parks and recreation, and more. The course also included special sessions about Concord’s history, economic development, and the impact of tourism and motorsports. The free fourteenweek course began in late August.

The class was first offered in 2002, and alumni represent a cross-section of the community. Some are now serving in leadership roles in their neighborhoods or on City boards and commissions. Council Member John Sweat is a graduate from the 2003 class.

2013 participants were: Eleanor Adams, James Adams, Donna Anderson, Mary Anderson, Mark Boles, Andrea Brown, Jane Brown, Michael Brown, Joshua Eudy, Bryan Folds, Dora Fulton, JoAnn Furr, Karen Hayes, Paul Hayes, Mark Hermans, Laffette Jordan, George (Kris) Kable, Anita McKiernan, Shannon Miller, Jennifer Parsley, Carol Salloum, Tamra Swaringen, and Nancy Tanner.

At the ceremony, City Manager Brian Hiatt encouraged the graduates to take an active role in the community. He also welcomed continuing feedback on City services and programs.

The next class will begin in fall of 2014, and applications will be available in May. Learn more at concordnc.gov.

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The City of Concord has been a long-term supporter of United Way of Central Carolinas. City coworkers have planned and hosted many events over the years to benefit United Way agencies, participated in the convenient payroll deduction program, and volunteered during the annual Season of Caring program. In October and November the City held barbecue chicken lunch and pancake breakfast events, raising nearly $4,000 in just those events alone.

City Coworkers raised $28,000 of the $1,200,000 contributed which benefited 24 agencies City of Concord was named one of the top-ten accounts in Cabarrus County. The City’s coworkerLast year, the

led campaign raised over twenty-eight thousand dollars of the half million raised in Cabarrus County. In return, twenty-four Cabarrus County member agencies received over 1.2 million dollars to help local individuals and families with multiple needs.

When you give to United Way of Central Carolinas, your gift helps reduce the fundraising costs of and supports over eighty proven agencies that are financially sound and vetted by experts. Most importantly, your gift addresses our community’s most pressing challenges and makes the greatest difference for your neighbors in need.

About United Way of Central Carolinas United Way of Central Carolinas focuses on three vital areas: Children and Youth; Housing and Stability; and Health and Mental Health. Through its more than 80 partner health and human services agencies, United Way creates long-lasting community change by addressing the underlying causes of problems, working in Anson, Cabarrus, Charlotte/Mecklenburg, Mooresville/Lake Norman, and Union. To get help, or learn how you can help, call United Way’s 211 hotline, or for more details, please visit uwcentralcarolinas.org.

Do your part: underground power systems

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Failures are not common with underground systems, but outages require double or triple the time to locate and repair. The most frequent causes of underground system outages are people digging into the lines and lightning strikes. Sometimes, these do not cause an outage immediately. Rather, they may cause gradual damage that weakens the lines until there is a failure just in

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any areas of Concord have underground power lines, which in addition to the aesthetic benefits are more dependable than traditional overhead lines.

However, this much-desired infrastructure has its own set of disadvantages and precautions to keep in mind.

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Tips to remember: •A lways dial 811 to call North Carolina One-Call Center before you or anyone else digs on your property. All utilities will be located free of charge.

• Please leave ten feet of space between any plants or other items and doors, and three feet of space on the other sides. Surrounding plants may cause damage to underground wiring and equipment, creating a power outage.

• Please call the Customer Care Center at 704-920-5555 if you find electrical equipment open or damaged.

Most people like to use shrubs to block the view of padmount equipment in their yard, which is okay if done in the right way. City of Concord Electric Systems crews need direct access to the equipment in the event of a power outage or to perform maintenance.

Residents and businesses can do their part by keeping shrubs and other items a safe distance from electrical equipment.

This will help crews access the equipment, restore power quickly, and avoid damage to your landscaping or other property.

City coworkers recognized for life-saving actions CITY OF CONCORD/L.J. WESLOWSKI

CITY OF CONCORD/L.J. WESLOWSKI

Robert Boyd Annual Super STAR While vacationing at Nags Head, NC Firefighter Robert Boyd witnessed an accident involving a fourteen-year-old boy that resulted in a serious neck injury.

He acted quickly to assess the situation and realized the importance of protecting the cervical spine of the injured boy. Robert stabilized the cervical spine and kept the parents calm while more advance emergency care responded. A physician later credited Robert for preventing a permanently disabling injury or perhaps even death. Boyd was named the City’s annual Super STAR for fiscal year 2012-13, and was recognized at the September 12 City Council Meeting.

VaShon Clark Shining STAR On August 13, 2013, Police Sergeant VaShon Clark was the first to respond to a possible prescription medication overdose. He arrived to find the subject not breathing and without a pulse and began to administer CPR, successfully resuscitating the person. Medical personnel later credited Clark with playing a major role in saving the person’s life, since he was able to begin CPR before the arrival of other responders. Clark was named the Shining STAR for the first quarter of fiscal year 2013-14, and was recognized at the November 14 City Council meeting.

The STAR program is an opportunity for City of Concord coworkers to recognize each other for excellent customer service. STAR stands for Special Thanks and Recognition. The City of Concord would like to congratulate Robert and VaShon for their commitment to our community.

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City coworkers Larry Bradley, Electric Systems Education Coordinator; Scott Chunn, Electric Systems Manager; David Dobbins, Electric Engineering Manager; Jeff Young, Economic Development and Sustainability Director; and Pam Hinson, Finance Director receive plaques recognizing the five award categories.

Concord sweeps Public Power awards

Concord Electric Systems has once again been recognized for excellence by ElectriCities, a membership organization including public power communities in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. For the third year in a row, the City of Concord has been honored with all five possible Public Power Awards of Excellence.

The Awards, received by twenty-one public power communities across the state, honor outstanding efforts in several key areas. They were presented Thursday at Concord’s October City Council meeting, where Mayor Scott Padgett recognized City staff members responsible for the work related to each award.

Well-timed during the City’s week-long celebration of public power, Concord received recognition for excellence in all five eligible categories as follows: • Competitive Business Environment • Energy Efficiency • Financial Stability • Legislative Involvement • Service Excellence

Public Safety Academy applications now available!

Applications are now available for the City of Concord’s tenth Citizen Public Safety Academy. The course will allow citizens to learn about the functions of Concord’s public safety departments, meet staff, and help us evaluate the

These categories represent efforts of over one hundred coworkers in several departments who work together to deliver reliable electricity and great customer service.

“We sincerely appreciate this recognition from ElectriCities, and are especially proud of Bob Pate and his team for continuing to raise the bar,” said City Manager Brian Hiatt. “One year of recognition would be commendable—the consistent recognition of our Electric Systems Department demonstrates their commitment to delivering great electric service and customer service. It also speaks to the support of this system by the Mayor and City Council. Our community thrives and prospers because of reliable public power, and the City of Concord is honored to provide it.”

The City’s Electric Systems department has a long record of state and national recognition for safety and reliability, including being a top-tier RP3® Diamond Level utility. The Electric Systems staff is dedicated to assisting residents with the science of home energy efficiency. At concordnc.gov, customers can learn more about energy conservation, the City’s peak partners and electric heat pump rebate programs, and more.

services we provide. The ten-week academy will begin February 4, 2014 and end on April 8. Consecutive classes will be held each Tuesday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Four classes will be taught by Concord Fire and Life Safety, including presentations on the various services provided as well as how all of us can be safer in our daily lives. The Concord Police Department will instruct four classes on all functions of the department and give an indepth look at its community policing philosophy. One class will be jointly presented by Communications, to explain what happens when you call

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911, and Emergency Management, to help you learn how the City plans for and responds to disasters and other emergencies. The tenth week will be a graduation dinner to honor academy participants.

Class participants will be urged to participate in an exchange of information that will benefit all involved. Class size is limited to 20; applications are available for download at concordnc.gov and due January 28. You may also contact Leslie Griffin at the Police Department (email: griffinl@concordnc.gov; mail: P.O. Box 308, Concord NC, 28026; fax: 704-920-6970).

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dequate affordable housing is a vital piece of any community’s well-being. Recently, the City’s Planning and Neighborhood Development staff have partnered with Habitat Cabarrus in thinking about the affordable housing needs of the community. The City owns several lots that have provided the perfect opportunity for the two entities to join forces. The first area to benefit from this partnership is the Broad Street corridor in the Logan Community, where two of the three planned homes have already been constructed.

parking pad, and a landscaping package. It is important to note that HOME guidelines require that a beneficiary Lowto-Moderate (LMI) buyer or LMI renter be identified before a project can be considered completed. In every case, Habitat has already identified a partner family with a desire to purchase the newly constructed houses.

This fall, ten Planning and Neighborhood Development staff members worked over a two-day period on one of the construction sites, along with the future homeowner and other volunteers in the Habitat program.

“This is a win-win partnership where both the entities’ missions align perfectly,” said Community Development Manager LeDerick Blackburn. “Work surrounding affordable housing is true community development at the base level. It bridges the gap between physical and human development.”

Partnership with

In partnering with Habitat, the City provides thirty-five thousand dollars in federal HOME funds for materials and approves the design.

The HOME program was created by the National Affordable Housing Act of 1990 (NAHA). Its objectives are to provide decent affordable housing to lower-income households, expand the capacity of nonprofit housing providers, strengthen the ability of state and local governments to provide housing, and leverage private-sector participation in affordable housing project.

Habitat Cabarrus has helped the City leverage its resources so it can serve more people. With Habitat helping to identify qualified homeowner candidates, the City can decrease the time it takes to move from vision to implementation. These activities help to stabilize families and instill a sense of pride in their accomplishments of home ownership. In the end, Habitat’s candidates become good neighbors and good citizens in the community.

provides affordable housing

A quality product is the goal in each of these projects. With that in mind, Habitat strives to meet certain standards in constructing these houses such as using hardy plank siding, subscribing to SystemVision requirements, and sealing the crawl space. Construction includes a front porch, two-car

CITY OF CONCORD/CHERIE JZAR

Habitat raises the remaining funds to construct the houses from other donors. The City sells the property to Habitat at a reduced price and the proceeds are returned to the HOME program to use for future affordable housing projects.

Habitat’s mission centers around efforts to eliminate substandard housing through constructing, rehabilitating and preserving homes; by advocating for fair and just housing policies; and by providing training and access to resources to help families improve their shelter conditions.

The organization was founded on the conviction that every man, woman and child should have a simple, durable place to live in dignity and safety, and decent shelter in decent communities should be a matter of conscience and action for all.

DO NOT place these items in your recycling cart:

Plastic Bags, Plastic Film, or Plastic Wrap

(Please recycle plastic bags at participating big box and grocery stores.) concordnc.gov WINTER 2014 CONCORD CITY CIRCULAR 9

Nextdoor.com

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Nextdoor is a private, neighborhood-based online social network, currently available in the US. It is an easy way for neighbors to connect online – and it’s free. The network was created in 2010 and is used in nearly 19,000 neighborhoods across the country. Registered neighbors typically use Nextdoor to share information about neighborhood watch issues, local events, school activities, plumber and babysitter recommendations, upcoming garage sales, or even lost pets.

The founders of Nextdoor created the platform because they believe a neighborhood is one of the most important and useful communities in a person’s life. They also believe in the traditional notion of neighbors as people who help and look out for each other. This belief is one that is central to the City of Concord’s Recognized Neighborhood and Neighborhood Watch programs.

people across geographic boundaries, but rather it provides a platform to seek and exchange information solely related to the neighborhood. However, Nextdoor takes Facebook’s requirement of being a real person using your real name to a more stringent level because a person must register using their real name and address so that neighbors can confirm their identity.

Nextdoor does not turn over any personally

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The City of Concord has a long history of encouraging neighborhood interaction and communication, supporting the belief that knowing the people who live near us makes for stronger neighborhoods, and strong neighborhoods are the building blocks of a strong city.

“The way we communicate with our family, friends, and neighbors has changed significantly in recent years with the increasing popularity of social media,” said Community Outreach Coordinator Cherie Jzar. “We have Facebook for our friends and family, LinkedIn for our business connections, and Twitter to follow people or companies that interest us. Nextdoor brings people together that don’t necessarily know each other, but share one common thing—where they live.”

It’s a simple process where Neighborhoods establish and self-manage their own Nextdoor website—and it’s free.

Nextdoor can be accessed online from your computer or through the use of applications available for iOS or Android devices. Discussion topics can range from information sharing to notices about local events and school activities, local business recommendations, disaster preparedness, crime prevention, lost pets, and any other discussion topic neighbors wish to share.

Nextdoor is specifically designed to provide a trusted environment for neighbor-to-neighbor communication.

Information shared on each Nextdoor site is only visible to verified registered members. Nextdoor is not like Facebook where people have a running tab of their lives and link out to 10 CONCORD CITY CIRCULAR WINTER 2014 concordnc.gov

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How does Nextdoor work?

identifiable information to third-party advertisers and communications are securely encrypted.

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oncord residents have access to a new tool designed to help build a sense of community and strengthen communication with neighborhoods thanks to a partnership with .

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In June 2013, staff started a pilot project with the City’s Partnership for Stronger Neighborhoods Program where recognized neighborhood leaders were encouraged to start Nextdoor sites for their respective communities. Neighborhood leaders spent thirty days spreading the word and encouraging neighbors to establish accounts.

From those efforts, seventy percent of recognized neighborhoods started Nextdoor websites.

Neighborhoods are using the tool to stay connected and updated on the things that matter like social

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Leadership Council meeting.

The Laurel Park board first piloted the site for a month and quickly realized how powerful the tool was in helping to facilitate better interaction among neighbors.

“Neighborhoods Steve Ermish, President of Laurel Park POA are natural social networks already,” Ermish said. “With over six hundred homes in Laurel Park, this is a great way to leverage technology to enhance communication, increase participation, and strengthen the value proposition for living here.”

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While forty-two percent of households within the Laurel Park neighborhood already have established accounts, Ermish expects the partnership with the City of Concord to draw even more. “It’s an opportunity for the City to partner with its neighborhoods to deliver important information such as utility interruptions, or emergency preparedness tips. The more connected we are to each other, the easier it is to solve problems and get help when needed.”

Concord joins more than 120 cities across the country using the technology to create safer, more well-connected communities. The City will have the ability to share information with neighborhoods through its Nextdoor account, but cannot view discussions that take place outside its posts. Information the City will share with neighborhoods— individually and collectively—might include that related to area street projects, event announcements, crime prevention and safety tips, and emergency bulletins.

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How do I get started?

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gatherings, community cleanups, and meeting reminders.

Steve Ermish, President of Laurel Park POA, launched their Nextdoor site after learning about the tool during a Concord Neighborhood

Interested in connecting with your neighbors online using Nextdoor? Go to Nextdoor.com and enter your address to see if your neighborhood is already established. If not, define your neighborhood boundaries, invite your neighbors to the group, and get the discussion going! The website includes step-bystep instructions for getting started—it’s easy!

For more information, about Nextdoor please visit Nextdoor. com. Contact Cherie Jzar at jzarc@concordnc.gov or check out concordnc.gov/neighborhoods for more information on the City’s Partnership for Stronger Neighborhoods Program.

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Ray Allen promoted to Fire Chief CITY OF CONCORD/CHERIE JZAR

In October, City Manager Brian Hiatt named Ray Allen as Concord’s next Fire Chief. Allen succeeds recently retired Chief Randy Holloway in leading the Department of Fire and Life Safety. He was named at the end of a search process launched in August.

“Chief Allen has made a name for himself as a strong leader and manager who is committed to customer service excellence,” said Hiatt. “We feel Chief Allen is prepared to lead a great department into the future. The Department of Fire and Life Safety is critical in protecting the lives and property of our residents and visitors, and in advancing public safety through its fire prevention, investigation, and education programs. This mission requires leaders dedicated to innovation, coworker involvement, and continuous improvement.”

Ray Allen has served in the Concord Department of Fire and Life Safety for his entire career, beginning as a Firefighter in 1991. He began gaining leadership experience in 1997 when he was promoted to Senior Firefighter. In 2001, Allen’s promotion to the rank of Captain added responsibility for the personnel, training, and equipment of a fire company.

He became a Battalion Chief in 2004, where he led several companies on each shift and commanded incident responses.

In 2007, Allen was named Deputy Chief of Operations, with expanded responsibilities including the overall management of daily operations, coordinating with other agencies and community organizations, and assisting the Fire Chief.

He contributed to budget preparation and administration, strategic planning, promotional processes, and station

construction. In his capacity as Fire Chief, he will direct 190 coworkers in meeting departmental goals and objectives, and manage a 16 million dollar budget.

“I thank the City of Concord for the opportunity to serve in this capacity and will dedicate myself to ensuring the Department of Fire and Life Safety continues to deliver a high level of customer service and meet the needs of our community,” remarked Allen. “I will remain personally engaged in the community to help keep the Department in tune and proactive.”

Involved in several professional and community organizations, Allen is a member of the North Carolina State Firemen’s Association, the North Carolina Association of Fire Chiefs, the International Association of Fire Chiefs, and served as vice president of the Cabarrus County Firefighters Association.

He is a member of the Concord Rotary Club, an officer of the Central Cabarrus High School Boosters, and serves on the Cabarrus County Schools Career and Technical Education Advisory Board.

He is a graduate of Western Carolina University, and has completed over 4,000 hours of specialized fire service training and over 350 hours of leadership training, including the UNC School of Government’s Municipal and County Administration course. Chief Allen grew up on a dairy farm in Cooleemee and moved to the area in 1990. His wife, Michelle, is a kindergarten teacher at Harrisburg Elementary School, and they have two sons, Jake (19) and Jon (17). The family attends Westford United Methodist Church in Concord.

Did you know...

Don’t be a victim: stay alert to scams

Did you know any call received claiming to be your utility company and demanding immediate payment or personal information is a scam. If this happens, hang up the phone and call the customer service number on your bill and notify Concord Police.

CONCORD CUSTOMER CARE CENTER 704-920-5555 CONCORD POLICE 704-920-5000 12 CONCORD CITY CIRCULAR WINTER 2014 concordnc.gov

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Introducing Brian Moore

Solid Waste Manager The City of Concord welcomes Brian Moore, who began work in November as Solid Waste Manager. He is responsible for the City’s solid waste collection program, including administration of the City’s contract with Waste Pro. Moore also leads thirty-two City coworkers who collect yard waste and provide other services to residents and businesses.

The department’s mission is to collect and dispose of residential garbage, recycling, and yard waste; provide businesses with waste reduction and recycling opportunities in order to protect and preserve public health and safety; and to protect and enhance the physical environment.

CITY OF CONCORD/CHERIE JZAR

Moore comes to Concord from Salisbury, where he managed the Solid Waste Division. He was in Salisbury for twenty years, where he gained experience as a public transit and equipment operator before becoming a supervisor. He was known as a champion of the Salisbury’s customer service excellence program.

“I feel that people do not receive nearly enough appreciation for what they do, when appreciation is free, easy, and available,” said Moore. “As the Solid Waste Manager for the City of Concord I will always remember that it’s not about me, it’s about the people that I serve and those who work for me.”

Moore has been married for twenty years and has five children. He loves to sing and entertain.

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Deason designated as Certified Municipal Clerk City Clerk Kimberly Deason has been designated a Certified Municipal Clerk by the NC Association of Municipal Clerks and the UNC School of Government. The five-year designation recognizes high educational, experience, and service achievements, and requires continuing education to sustain and develop professional knowledge. Deason has been employed with the City of Concord since 2001 and has served as City Clerk since 2008.

CITY OF CONCORD/CHERIE JZAR

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s part of a regional effort to reduce vulnerability to natural disasters, the City of Concord is requesting public feedback on natural disaster risk and preparedness. This feedback will assist the efforts of the City of Concord and Cabarrus, Stanly, and Union counties to combine respective local natural hazard mitigation plans into one regional plan. A mitigation plan identifies and assesses a community’s natural hazard risks, and determines how to best minimize or manage those risks.

A brief survey provides the public an opportunity to share opinions and participate in the regional planning process. Responses will help the planning team to better understand the region’s hazard concerns, which can lead to mitigation activities and help lessen the impact of future hazard events.

Manager’s Notes continued from page 3 set policy rests with elected officials, such as a mayor or chairperson and members of a community’s council, commission, or board. However, the governing body appoints a nonpartisan, nonpolitical professional manager that serves at the pleasure of the governing body. That manager is responsible for: • developing the annual budget for elected officials to debate, sometimes adjust, and approve • delivering the services supported by the resources provided through the budget • planning strategically for community and economic development • working with the elected officials to develop policies and programs • managing the government staff (hiring and evaluating), budgets, programs, and capital projects • developing ways to communicate with community members and business interests

Community input requested on regional hazard mitigation plan Residents of Cabarrus county are invited to participate in this survey at bit.ly/CSUHMPlan

• e nsuring that laws and policies are enforced fairly throughout the community and that the government runs ethically and transparently The manager is bound by the actions of the city council, and power always remains in the hands of the elected representatives.

In 1924, ICMA developed a stringent Code of Ethics for professional local government managers, to which its members subscribe and ICMA enforces.

The Code spells out principles of equity, transparency, integrity, stewardship of public resources, political neutrality and respect for the rights and responsibilities of elected officials and residents. While the Code has evolved over the years, it remains the rock that the profession is built upon.

ICMA has also started a new initiative called Life, Well Run. The purpose of this program is to educate all people

14 CONCORD CITY CIRCULAR WINTER 2014 concordnc.gov

By maintaining a Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan, Concord is eligible for FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Assistance Grant Program (HMAGP), which provides funds for eligible mitigation activities that reduce disaster losses and protect life and property from future disaster damages. HMAGP provides funding opportunities for mitigation activities both before and after a disaster, as well as long-term hazard mitigation measures after a Presidential Disaster Declaration.

Residents of Cabarrus, Stanly, and Union counties are invited to participate in this survey at bit.ly/CSUHMPlan. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about disaster preparedness and mitigation, please contact the City of Concord Emergency Management Office at 704-920-5528.

on the role of professional managers in working with elected officials. This program also serves to educate young people on careers in local government management, as there is a need for bright and energetic young people to enter the field to keep professional management strong as baby boomers reach retirement age.

With challenges at other levels of government in the United States, it is important for citizens and business people to understand how local elected officials seek to deliver services in a way that avoids gridlock and with

To learn more about how city and county managers play a vital role in supporting elected officials, you can visit lifewellrun.org. continued fiscal responsibility.

Hector H. Henry, II continued from page 3 The Mayor and members of City Council interacted with Dr. Henry in various capacities, and offer the following reflections on his life: Mayor J. Scott Padgett There are few people who are identified by just their first name; Hector was one of those people. Whether in Concord, elsewhere in North Carolina, or even around the world, you could just say “Hector,” and people immediately knew who you were talking about. I will miss reminiscing about our younger days, when we had less judgment and more energy. He was a public servant in every sense of the word. He was short in stature, but cast a very long shadow. He touched just about every facet of life in our City, and Concord is a better place because of Hector.

Mayor Pro-Tem Jim Ramseur When Hector H. Henry, II left us yesterday, a family lost a husband, a father, a grandfather, and a brother.

America lost a hero. Colonel Henry was deployed in several wars to serve our great country. The City of Concord lost Council Member Henry, currently our longest serving Concord elected official. The medical community lost Dr. Henry, a friend of our youth, who served our local medical needs for over four decades. And finally, I lost Hector, my friend for over 40 years. May The Lord bless him and keep him and give him peace.

Council Member Dave Phillips Hector Henry was a once-in-a-lifetime individual that I have had the honor and privilege to serve with on the Concord City Council for the past eighteen years. I knew Hector first as a doctor, then as a neighbor, and finally as a colleague on the City Council. In knowing Hector in these different capacities, I learned to know the complete Hector Henry – the man. My father served under George S. Patton during World War II and Hector and I shared many discussions about General Patton, who we both regarded as a true American hero. We both had a tremendous respect for the members of “The Greatest Generation” and all of the contributions they made to America and the world.

Although Hector was a little behind that generation in years, I believe his contributions and accomplishments place him among those members of “The Greatest Generation.” For all of the toughness he could exhibit when necessary, Hector had a huge soft spot for children, people who needed assistance, his family, and his community. His service to his Country, Concord, and Cabarrus County has been exemplary and his passing leaves a void that will be difficult if not impossible to fill. I am thankful to have

known Hector – and to have had the opportunity to call him my doctor, my neighbor, my fellow Councilmember, and most importantly, my friend.

Hector truly is an example of a life well lived.

Council Member Ella Mae P. Small Hector Henry was a gentleman in all aspects. He was kind, considerate, and easy to communicate with. He was also methodical, and at times would guide the Council to assist us in making sound decisions. Hector was dedicated and always focused on making decisions to make Concord a more progressive city. We will miss Hector on City Council. More importantly, Concord will miss a man that worked for many years to make our City, our County, our State and our Country a better place to live.

Council Member Alfred M. Brown, Jr. I am deeply saddened by the death of our colleague, Dr. Hector Henry.

Hector was a public servant in the truest sense - as a doctor, a soldier, an elected official, a community servant, a husband, a father, and a grandfather.

Few people today in public service can offer as broad a resume as Hector, and it was a privilege to have served with him on the Concord City Council. My sympathies go out to Margie and the entire family, and I also encourage everyone who is eligible to look into becoming a bone marrow donor.

Council Member Lamar Barrier I first got to know Hector forty-five years ago when he was my dad’s doctor. During the twenty-eight years I have been on Council, he has been there all but four of those years. A lot of people thought he was a big old grizzly bear, but he had a heart of gold when it came to considering City issues. He was a big help to me while on Council. He once told me “if you feel good about something, vote for it—if you don’t, don’t vote for it.” I have stuck with that advice. He was truly a friend of mine and he will be deeply missed by Concord, Cabarrus County and the United States. It means a lot to me that he is at peace now so there is no more suffering. I will miss him.

Council Member John A. Sweat, Jr. It is with a heavy but equally joyous heart that I remember Hector. He was my mentor, my Council running mate, a fellow service member; but most importantly my dear friend. The contributions he made to this world cannot be measured. Hector was a true warrior who fought bravely with conviction and never forgot his family, friends, Country and the great City of Concord. He will forever and always be missed by all who were blessed to know him.

City of Concord Important Phone Numbers Fire, Police, Medical Emergencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . 911 One number does it all . . . . . . . . . 704-920-5555 Call the Customer Call Center for service requests and inquiries about any of the following: • Electric Outages/Services • Water/Sewer Emergencies • Dead Animal Pick-up • Drinking Water Inquiries • Garbage/Bulk Pick-up/Recycling • Utility Bills • Street/Traffic Light Issues • Right-of-Way Issues • Storm Water/Storm Drain/Flooding Problems • Yard Waste/Leaf Collection • Building Material Disposal • Bulk Metal Collection • Old Tire Collection • Vacant Lot Cleaning/Mowing The primary phone numbers for the various City departments are: Main Switchboard Menu . . . . . . . . . . . 704-920-5200 Accounts Payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 704-920-5217 Accounts Receivable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 704-920-5231 Buildings & Grounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 704-920-5380 City Clerk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 704-920-5205 City Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 704-920-5215 Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 704-920-5580 Concord Regional Airport . . . . . . . . . . 704-920-5900 Community Development . . . . . . . . . . 704-920-5143 Electric Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 704-920-5320 Engineering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 704-920-5425 Finance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 704-920-5220 Fire Chief . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 704-920-5516 Fleet Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 704-920-5430 GIS/Mapping/Addressing . . . . . . . . . . . 704-920-5153 Housing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 704-788-1139 Human Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 704-920-5100 Meter Reading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 704-920-5219 Parks & Recreation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 704-920-5600 Planning & Neighborhood Development 704-920-5152 Police (non-emergency) . . . . . . . . . . . 704-920-5000 Public Affairs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 704-920-5210 Purchasing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 704-920-5440 Rider Transit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 704-920-7433 Risk Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 704-920-5111 Rocky River Golf Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . 704-455-1200 Sewer Construction & Maintenance . . . 704-920-5351 Solid Waste . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 704-920-5361 Stormwater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 704-920-5360 Tax Collector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 704-920-5216 TDD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-800-735-8262 Transportation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 704-920-5362 Water Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 704-920-5341 Zoning/Permits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 704-920-5152

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concordnc.gov WINTER 2014 CONCORD CITY CIRCULAR 15

P.O. Box 308 Concord, NC 28036

Stay Connected Stay connected with Concord through facebook! Simply scan the QR code with your smartphone or go to facebook.com/ concordnc.

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City seeks volunteers to support wildlife habitat certification Are you an avid gardener, environmentalist, or simply enjoy animals or being outdoors?

If so, the City of Concord needs your help.

Contact Environmental Educator Mandy Smith-Thompson to learn how you can help Concord become a Certified Wildlife Habitat through the National Wildlife Federation. smithal@concordnc.gov or 704-920-5379.

U K Prepare for winter

with energy saving tips Now is the best time to start thinking about ways to save on your energy bill. To keep warm and cut down your energy use, try these helpful energy-saving tips around your house all winter. With very little effort and money you can conserve energy and also save on your utility bill.

•K eep the thermostat on your heating system at the lowest comfortable setting

Visit NC Public Power’s YouTube channel to learn more about winter energy saving; you can find a link at concordnc.gov/Departments/Electric.

•C heck weather stripping around doors and windows

The City of Concord is offering a $400 rebate to residential customers that install a new qualified heat pump, or replace their existing heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system, with a new qualified heat pump in their home.

• L et the sun shine in

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www.concordnc.gov/Departments/ Electric/Heat-Pump-Rebate

•C aulk or re-caulk around windows and doors •C hange your air filters

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•K eep heating vents and registers clear.

•C over bare floors

•R everse the direction of your ceiling fans to help maintain a comfortable temperature in your home •U se the Home Energy Conservation Calculator on concordnc.gov