Minutes 04/28/1998 - Laserfiche WebLink

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TUESDAY, APRIl, 18, 1998 endorsing, and asked whether the grant application would be brought back to Council for their consideration. Mr. Gorman stated that both the City and the County govemments would have to review and apply for the grant, and that, if awarded, in-kind matches could be used in addition to cash funds. Council Member Haskell then asked what level of funds might be available from the State, and Mr. Gorman replied that he was unsure, but that a consolidation of State funds for transportation issues would be likely. Council Member Dallas then noted the importance of a public transportation system in the community that would be a better alternative than those which currently existed, and said that such a system would be good for everyone. Mr. Gorman stated that, if funded, the study would be completed by July of 1999, and the results would disclose what it would cost to provide for a new public transportation system to meet the needs of the community. Mayor Adams then observed that if the City and County endorsed this effort the jurisdictions would be responsible for carrying out the work, not MADEN. Mr. Reynolds contimed this, but stated that Bob Dowd, Executive Director of the West Piedmont Planning District Commission would be responsible for much of the work, and observed that after the study is done the results could be reviewed to see if there was a desire to apply for a grant at that time. Vice-Mayor Crabtree noted the importance of being clear about expectations in the process. Council Member Haskell asked whether Mr. Dowd would be the lead staff person on the project and Mr. Reynolds stated that this would be his intent. Mayor Adams noted the importance of having the fight people involved in the effort, and Vice-Mayor Crabtree noted the importance of the avoidance of duplication of effort. Mr. Dallas stated that even if such a system could not prove itself self-sustaining it would be worth the expense of supplementing if necessary. Mr. Gorman responded that such a system would be a statement of economic vitality for the community. Council Members Haskell and Teague both remarked on the need to do a fair and complete study to assess the true merits of such a system. Ms. Teresa Martin of Martin Associates suggested that if such a system is put into place consideration should be given to the use of nostalgic trolley vehicles, and noted that such a project should receive the support of the public and the business community. Upon motion duly seconded, and by unanimous vote, Council approved the following Kesolution: