Red Bank’s new 2017 budget was amended Tuesday night at the commission meeting to appropriate funding for transportation improvement projects. A total of $2,483,831.16 will be rolled over from the 2016 budget for the purpose of being able to move forward with three transportation projects that are currently in work. Pedestrian islands are being built at various places along Dayton Boulevard that will be incorporated into crosswalks. Upgrades of signalization are being made in five locations, and paving will continue from Greenleaf Street to Browntown Road, a total of around two miles, on Dayton Boulevard.
The commissioners also voted to purchase 15 protective body armor and panel carriers for use of the police department. This equipment will replace body armor that has come to the end of its useful life expectancy. The total purchase amount is $10,143.35, with half of that amount coming from a 50/50 grant from the federal justice department and half being paid by the city. Commissioner Rick Causer stated that it is a good investment.
An amendment was approved on the second and final vote for changing the zoning ordinance in regards to the minimum requirement for off-street parking and loading space requirements. This change will allow for shared parking between two businesses in available parking lots. The required number of spaces will depend upon the number of square feet in the buildings and will be decided at the discretion of the city officials.
Approval was also given to rezone property at 1103 Coker Circle from R-1 Residential Zone to RZ-1 Residential Zero Lot Line Zone. The change of zoning designation will permit a developer to build several spec houses on the property.
City Manager Randall Smith reported that work is almost complete to replace the rest rooms at White Oak Park that were vandalized this spring. He said the condition of the facilities was close to total destruction. The city’s public works department made most of the repairs. It is expected that the restrooms will reopen next week.
Another project that the public works department has completed is the installation of new fencing around Red Bank’s dog park which is now open.
In citizens' comments, a contractor specializing in roofing for the past 30 years in Red Bank asked for consideration to make the process for obtaining permits simpler. He said it is understood that with new construction and remodels, that a contractor must meet with Tim Thornbury, director of public works before getting a permit. However he suggested that for general repairs such as painting and roofing that the contractor should be allowed to fill out the proper paperwork and pay without having to meet with Mr. Thornbury. He said that would make it easier for both parties.