Pittsboro, NC – The April 14, 2025, meeting of the Pittsboro Board of Commissioners showcased a range of community-focused initiatives, from recognizing local youth achievements to discussing infrastructure improvements and proposed developments.
Youth Recognition and Community Engagement
The meeting commenced with a moment of silence, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Mayor Pro Tem Baldwin introduced two resolutions recognizing the 2025 Youth of the Year and Junior Youth of the Year, awarded by the Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Carolina. Evan Bland and Scott Johnson were celebrated for their leadership and commitment to community service, highlighting the positive impact of local youth programs.
The commissioners encouraged public participation, urging residents to engage in community discussions and initiatives.
Infrastructure Improvements and Safety Initiatives
A significant portion of the meeting focused on infrastructure improvements, particularly concerning pedestrian safety. The Board discussed the need for enhanced safety measures along Sanford Road, particularly near Pittsboro Elementary School. Following a review of the area, the Board proposed the installation of stop signs and no-parking zones to improve visibility and safety for pedestrians, especially children.
Public Works Director Kent Jackson reported on the installation of a post-and-chain system designed to guide pedestrians safely across busy intersections. The Board emphasized the need for ongoing assessments of traffic patterns and safety measures, particularly in light of recent accidents in the area.
Proposed Development: Super Athletics Facility
The meeting also featured a presentation by Latonya Brown, the owner of Super Athletics, who proposed the development of a new sports facility in Pittsboro. This facility aims to provide a local option for youth sports, reducing the need for families to travel outside the county for athletic programs. Brown highlighted the potential for the facility to generate significant economic impact, with projections estimating an annual revenue of $30 million through tournaments and community engagement.
Brown’s proposal included plans for a state-of-the-art facility featuring indoor tracks, basketball courts, and community solar programs to assist low-income households with energy costs. The Board was encouraged by the potential partnerships with local schools and organizations to foster youth development and provide accessible sports programs.
SUPA Youth Sports plex of Chatham – Facility Development Plan.pdf
Collaborative Efforts for Land Development
The discussion around the proposed facility raised questions about land use and the potential for collaboration between the town and Chatham County. The Board explored options for utilizing town-owned land for the sports facility, while also considering the implications of public-private partnerships. The need for a clear understanding of the financial and logistical aspects of the project was emphasized, with calls for transparency and community support.
The commissioners expressed interest in ensuring that any development would benefit not only the facility but also the broader community, particularly in terms of accessibility and economic growth. The conversation underscored the importance of aligning efforts between the town and county to maximize the potential impact of the proposed facility.
Environmental Concerns and Policy Resolutions
In addition to discussions on infrastructure and community development, the Board addressed environmental concerns related to water quality and federal policy changes. Commissioner Foley presented two resolutions calling for action on federal regulations concerning per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and tariffs affecting local businesses.
The resolutions aimed to urge federal representatives to support legislation that would ensure funding for clean water initiatives and address the economic impact of tariffs on local industries. The Board recognized the importance of advocating for the community’s interests at the federal level, particularly in light of ongoing environmental challenges.
Watch on YouTube – April 14th, 2025 – Pittsboro Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting
Pittsboro Board of Commissioners Meeting Highlights: Resolutions on Federal Policies and Youth Recognition on April 14, 2025.
08:27 Pittsboro Board of Commissioners meeting opens with agenda approvals and discussion of new resolutions.
- The meeting starts with a moment of silence and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by agenda reviews.
- Commissioner Foley introduces two resolutions regarding changes in federal policies related to infrastructure funding and tariffs.
12:10 Recognition of Pittsboro youth leaders at Board meeting.
- Evan Bland and Scott Johnson are honored as Youth of the Year for their contributions to the Boys and Girls Club.
- The Boys and Girls Club’s impact on youth leadership is highlighted, with programs like Passport to Manhood.
17:26 Update includes congratulations, event highlights, and upcoming conferences.
- Jonathan received a ’40 under 40′ honor from the Triangle Business Journal, celebrating local achievements.
- Key events included the Clyde Jones mural ribbon cutting, Main Street conference awards, and the upcoming City Vision conference.
19:44 Discussions on climate initiatives and upcoming public meetings.
- Acknowledgment of staff efforts on the chain barrier project and the importance of interdepartmental collaboration.
- Upcoming climate change advisory committee meeting focusing on developing a climate action plan for Chatham County.
24:43 Discussion on zoning bills and park project funding.
- Recommendation to contact representatives for exemptions regarding Senate Bill 493 impacting zoning and land use.
- Presentation on the Night Farm Park project, highlighting a potential grant application for park improvements.
27:25 Discussion on park designs catering to all age groups and feedback incorporation.
- Proposed designs include additional picnic tables and seating to enhance existing amenities for diverse user needs.
- Public feedback will guide the prioritization of features, with a focus on inclusivity and accessibility for all visitors.
31:47 Discussion on recreational amenities and public feedback for Night Farm Park.
- Proposed amenities include greenways, a multi-purpose field, and an amphitheater, focusing on community engagement.
- A recent public meeting gathered 26 attendees, and a significant Easter event attracted over 220 participants, encouraging survey responses.
34:04 Community feedback on park options and event concerns is a priority.
- Residents have expressed concerns about noise levels related to the potential amphitheater.
- Various outreach methods, including social media and local newsletters, are being used to gather public input.
38:33 Discussion on private sector involvement and park amenities.
- Concerns raised about high maintenance costs for public amenities, suggesting private businesses might be better suited.
- Positive reception of outdoor games and downsizing amphitheater proposals, with an emphasis on community engagement.
40:55 Plans discussed for new dog park and multi-purpose fields.
- A new dog park is confirmed, located as indicated in the concept plan, suitable for small dogs.
- Future discussions are ongoing about multi-purpose fields near the YMCA, separate from the dog park project.
46:04 Discussion on helmet laws and skateboard regulations at a public skate park.
- The board addressed safety concerns about children not wearing helmets while skating.
- Concerns were raised about Article Three potentially prohibiting skateboards on public streets without proper signage.
48:32 Discussing skateboard use alongside bicycles and safety concerns.
- Concerns about safety for skateboards on streets, especially without dedicated bike lanes.
- Proposal to examine policies from other municipalities for better integration of skateboards in transportation planning.
53:45 Discussion on including skateboarding in park plans.
- Concerns were raised about the safety and adequacy of multipurpose paths for skateboarding.
- Members expressed support for designated skate areas to prevent accidents in public spaces.
56:09 Discussion on skateboarding regulations and safety considerations.
- Commissioners debated the appropriateness of prohibiting skateboarding on low-traffic neighborhood streets.
- There is a consensus to revisit the regulations after a year to assess their impact and safety.
1:01:53 Proposal for no parking zone to enhance safety near Pittsboro Elementary School.
- The amendment addresses safety concerns regarding vehicles blocking sight lines for pedestrians.
- It establishes a no parking zone on both sides of Pittsboro Elementary School Road from Ferrell to Cotton Street.
1:04:24 Discussion on the importance of on-street parking for pedestrian safety.
- On-street parking serves as a visual cue, prompting drivers to slow down, thereby enhancing pedestrian safety.
- Removing on-street parking could increase vehicle speeds, negatively impacting the walkability of the community.
1:09:25 Discussion on expanding parking near the ball field.
- The county provided an additional property to expand parking for the ball field, increasing capacity for 50-60 cars.
- East Chatham Little League relocated the outfield fence to create a walking strip around the field, enhancing access.
1:11:37 Commissioner Foley discusses resolutions on water funding and tariffs.
- The resolutions respond to recent executive actions affecting Pittsboro citizens.
- The first resolution requests policy change regarding clean water funding under federal infrastructure laws.
1:16:58 Discussion on hazardous ‘forever chemicals’ and their impact on Pittsboro’s water supply.
- PFAS, known as forever chemicals, persist in the environment and contaminate drinking water in Pittsburgh.
- Pittsboro has filed lawsuits against major companies for polluting water sources, claiming negligence in managing PFAS waste.
1:19:27 Pittsburgh requests federal action to address water contamination issues.
- The resolution urges Congress to release previously allocated funds for tackling PFOA and PFOS in drinking water.
- Pittsboro calls for the modification of federal regulations impacting chemical assessments and local governance over water safety.
1:25:00 Discussion on adding a factual statement regarding water safety.
- Proposal to include a clause stating that Pittsboro’s filtration system ensures safe drinking water.
- Concerns expressed about the financial implications of federal executive actions on local water systems.
1:27:29 Discussion on frozen funds impacting infrastructure and water quality projects.
- There are concerns about frozen funds related to various grants, affecting local infrastructure developments.
- A formal request is made to the federal government to reconsider withholding funding to the EPA and infrastructure projects.
1:32:16 Commissioners discuss amendments to a resolution acknowledging Pittsboro’s water quality efforts.
- A commissioner suggested adding a clause to recognize Pittsburgh’s superior drinking water quality due to extensive efforts over the past eight years.
- Concerns were raised about the long-term implications of an executive order on water safety and filtration costs.
1:34:47 Discussion on water quality concerns and supporting a referendum.
- Commissioner expresses frustration over community myths regarding water pollution affecting local businesses and property values.
- Urgency expressed for passing a resolution related to water safety, with plans to draft language for clarity at the next meeting.
1:39:32 Request for presidential reconsideration on funding for public safety.
- Discussion on maintaining quality water and its lack of public awareness.
- Debate over the clarity and conciseness of the presented statements and figures.
1:42:59 Discussion on the town resolution regarding tariffs and executive powers.
- Mr. Foley explains the town of Pittsboro’s historical governance and structure, emphasizing the mayor and commissioners’ roles.
- The resolution references President Trump’s national economic emergency declaration that permits executive imposition of tariffs without Congressional review.
1:48:03 Resolution addresses local impacts of tariffs on businesses and community.
- Commissioners express concerns about the negative effects of tariffs on local entrepreneurs and businesses.
- Discussion highlights bipartisan support and the need for reconsideration of tariffs to alleviate financial burdens on constituents.
1:50:46 Discussion on pedestrian safety improvements for Sanford Road.
- Commissioner discussions highlighted the need for immediate action on pedestrian safety due to previous incidents.
- Proposed recommendations include managing on-street parking while enhancing safety measures along the critical corridor.
1:56:54 Discussion on intersection improvements and street light installation updates.
- The proposal for a rapid flash beacon system at Sanford and Chatham Street was deferred pending street light installation.
- Duke Energy received quick approval for street light installation; scheduling is underway with expected installation in four to six months.
1:59:10 Discussion on traffic calming and pedestrian safety strategies.
- Enhanced landscaping and on-street parking are proposed methods to deter speeding in low-speed zones.
- Research suggests visual clutter from trees and bumpouts can help compel drivers to slow down.
2:04:21 Discussion on improving pedestrian safety in a downtown area.
- Emphasis on slowing down vehicle traffic to create a local street atmosphere.
- Consideration of painting crosswalks and signage to enhance pedestrian awareness and safety.
2:06:47 Discussion on transportation mode limitations and DOT’s influence on road designations.
- Concerns about the feasibility of midblock crosswalks and DOT’s reluctance to approve such proposals.
- Potential changes in road ownership and maintenance responsibilities for downtown streets following the bypass of 15-501.
2:11:29 Local athletic initiatives aim to enhance sports opportunities in Chattam County.
- Latonya Brown proposes a sports facility to provide local track opportunities for youth in Chatham County.
- The initiative emerged from the need for local athletic programs, as parents currently drive to Durham for practices.
2:14:14 Proposal for a community sports facility with sustainable features and local support.
- The facility aims for LEED Platinum certification and will boost local economy with hotel revenue from tournaments.
- Community initiatives include a solar program to assist underprivileged households with rising energy costs.
2:18:44 Expert advocates for innovative business proposal addressing national school needs.
- Greg Gordau emphasizes the qualifications of Latonya Brown and her husband, who meet essential criteria for successful entrepreneurs.
- 93% of school districts express a dramatic nationwide demand for the innovative solution proposed by Latonya Brown.
2:21:20 Supporting youth through athletics fosters community growth and development.
- Former NFL player emphasizes the importance of hard work and sacrifice in achieving success in sports and life.
- Initiatives like Super aim to enhance community engagement and provide more opportunities in athletics, especially in Pittsboro.
2:26:03 Supa’s modular facility design supports clean energy and community engagement.
- The facility can be built in stages, starting with just one fieldhouse or all four at once, depending on investment.
- Each facility features 4,000 solar panels, generating 1.5 megawatts of clean energy daily, enough to power up to 640 homes.
2:28:06 Discussion on clean energy initiatives and collaboration with Chatham County.
- Presentation of a virtual walkthrough of a facility to demonstrate its features and potential.
- Proposal for Chatham Transit to convert to electric vehicles, utilizing clean energy and reducing capital expenditure.
2:32:07 Discussion on new multi-sport facility plans including basketball, volleyball, and turf fields.
- The facility will feature 18 basketball courts and one of the largest volleyball courts in the state.
- Indoor turf fields are prioritized for consistent safety and usability, minimizing outdoor unpredictability.
2:34:13 Discussion on funding and construction options for the fieldhouse project.
- Super Athletics can start with just the indoor track if budget constraints require.
- Funding involves both a for-profit entity and a nonprofit to support the project’s financial needs.
2:38:43 Supa leverages partnerships and scale to reduce building costs effectively.
- They chose Arizona Building Systems for a cost-efficient HVAC system that is energy-efficient and significantly cheaper than competitors.
- The bidding process for prefab structures led to aggressive quotes, allowing Supa to negotiate better deals due to their larger scale and existing vendor relationships.
2:40:43 Funding for development relies on securing a location first.
- The town manager collaborates with SUBA to find suitable land before funding can be obtained.
- The proposal involves using 18 acres of parkland for two field houses, expected to generate significant economic impact.
2:44:58 Discussions on municipal support and land use for development in Pittsboro.
- Pittsboro seeks non-financial municipal support for utilities and parking to facilitate development.
- Previous talks on land acquisition remain unconfirmed, aiming for potential long-term leases similar to other successful projects.
2:47:05 School system partners on community solar initiative for low-income families.
- Superintendent Blice expressed interest in collaborating on the project once construction begins.
- The proposed model allows families on scholarships to reduce energy costs significantly, benefiting their participation in sports.
2:51:13 The facility design enhances security and functionality for children and activities.
- Access to the facility is limited through a central connector, ensuring safety for children during operations.
- The two-story connector includes various amenities like a fitness center, classrooms, and a media center for training.
2:53:06 Discussion on sports broadcasting opportunities and challenges with proposed land use.
- High school students can engage in sports journalism and broadcasting during games, enhancing their involvement in sports.
- Concerns were raised about the feasibility of using 18 acres of land for a baseball complex due to soil and topographical issues.
2:57:07 Discussion on building an indoor sports arena for community and college events.
- The proposed arena aims to host indoor sports and attract community events, enhancing local interests.
- Tanya suggested collaborating with CCCCC to utilize JO sports in the new facility, supporting junior college athletes.
2:59:15 Discussion on designing Pittsburgh’s energy-efficient facilities.
- The opportunity exists to design facilities from the ground up, aiming for high energy standards.
- Challenges in achieving LEED platinum certification due to cost-cutting by builders; commitment to long-term clean energy generation.
3:03:37 Discussion on land options for Chatham County schools facilities.
- Superintendent Bliss partners with local programs to foster a unified Chatham atmosphere across schools.
- Exploration of land options continues after previous discussions with Franklin and land use limitations.
3:05:45 Discussion on land viability for sports facilities and project considerations.
- The need for a flat area for building soccer and baseball fields, highlighting the challenges faced due to topography.
- Civil engineer Charles Williams explains the financial implications of land development, suggesting project feasibility despite potential soil challenges.
3:10:03 Affordable sports membership for children with revenue generation strategies.
- The membership fee is $95 per month, covering all sports without additional charges.
- Revenue will be generated through hosted tournaments and sponsorship opportunities, including naming rights for facilities.
3:12:06 Discussion on sponsorship opportunities and collaboration between county and town.
- Sponsorship packages for naming rights are set at $350,000 per year, attracting corporate interest due to expected facility traffic.
- There are plans for restaurants in the pavilion to generate additional revenue during events, enhancing community partnerships.
3:16:26 Discussion on local support for Pittsboro schools and facilities for kids.
- Emphasis on the need for a firm commitment from Chatham County to assist with local initiatives.
- Clarification of responsibilities between local municipalities and the county regarding funding and support for school facilities.
3:18:30 Discussion on scheduling and costs associated with regional athletic facilities.
- The need for collaboration between local government, private sector, and philanthropy is essential for project success.
- Concerns were raised about the cost implications of earthwork for sites, emphasizing the importance of accurate soil assessments.
3:23:30 Discussion on designing a multi-use track for seniors and community needs.
- The design includes two lanes on the hydraulic track specifically for seniors, ensuring year-round accessibility.
- Emphasis on collaboration between Pittsboro and Chatham County to secure funding and support for the facility.
3:25:50 Discussion on property access and financing for local facilities.
- Preliminary agreements are needed for property access, ensuring liability coverage is in place.
- Public-private partnerships are crucial for facility construction, with clarity on land allocation being a priority.
3:29:54 Concerns over land use for a private facility in the town.
- The town cannot commit public land to private ventures without substantial information beyond basic designs.
- Developers suggest locating facilities strategically to capitalize on visitor traffic for local businesses.
3:31:58 Discussion on county land program and community sports facilities.
- The proposed land changes aim to enhance traffic flow through town and support local sports.
- Concerns were raised about the lack of options for youth sports, emphasizing the need for accessible facilities.