Clyde governing board take-aways
Apr. 25—CLYDE — The Clyde Board of Aldermen met on Thursday, April 21. Here is what was discussed.
Tourism
Lynn Collins, director of the Haywood County Tourism Development Authority, presented an update on tourism activity in the county, which has been at the highest levels ever since COVID-19 sparked outdoor recreation experiences.
The Clyde aldermen voted to use dedicated tourism revenue in its zip code area to install parking and wayfinding signs in town. Phase 2 of the project will feature a kiosk where visitors can learn about nearby attractions and take photos.
With the extra funds available because of record-level tourism, the TDA is setting aside $500,000 for grants to enhance tourism in the county. Clyde is the only entity that has submitted a grant so far — one in partnership with Haywood Community College to create four nature trails on the campus. The application deadline is April 30.
Infusion of federal funds
Town Administrator Joy Garland explained the town has received $200,000 in federal American Rescue Plan funds already and is expecting another $200,000 in July. While there is still time to determine how the funds will be used, an April 30 report is due indicating how the funds will be spent.
In keeping with the UNC School of Government has recommendation, Garland suggested using the funds for salaries, which is allowable under the guidelines and will free up local funds for projects, something that will reduce federal red tape. The board agreed with that approach.
The town also received $1.2 million in state funding, which is also classified as ARPA funds. She requested the board pass a resolution to accept the funds and spent $500,000 to improve the town's water system and $700,000 to relocate the water line beneath the Charles Street bridge.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency declined to pay for flood cleanup at River's Edge Park or for a major culvert on Spencer Street that was damaged during the flooding. However, there is a state "unmet needs" pool to help with post-flood costs, Garland said. She has been working with Joe Stanton with the state's Emergency Management department, and up to $30,000 has been offered to cover these costs.
The board voted to accept the state funding.
Other business
In other business, the board delayed a vote on continuing its cyber security protection until Alderman Frank Lay, who was absent from the meeting, was available for the discussion; approved an audit contract with Sheila Gahagan and agreed to hold a budget session at noon, May 5.
The board will next meet for a budget public hearing at 4:30 p.m. May 12, with the regular meeting beginning at 5 p.m.