Commission adopts amendment to Chatham Parkway acceleration agreement; one commissioner objects
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Summary
The board adopted a resolution amending the 2023 alternative acceleration agreement to update easement conveyances for NCDOT STIP project R-5930 A/B to reflect current ownership and allow DOT right-of-way acquisition; one commissioner announced a planned 'no' vote citing concern the structure channels public resources to a private development.
Town staff and attorney Steven Perry presented a proposed first amendment to a 2023 alternative acceleration agreement that would update parties and property descriptions to reflect changes in ownership and facilitate conveyance of easements to NCDOT for STIP project R-5930 A and B. Perry said the amendment is largely administrative: it aligns the agreement with current deeded ownership and the scope of DOT's right-of-way acquisition.
Commissioners discussed whether Chatham Park or related affiliates reimburse the town for administrative costs and confirmed the amendment itself does not involve a monetary transfer that night; Perry said reimbursement provisions exist in the broader agreements and would apply if expenses were passed through.
Commissioner (speaker who identified opposition) stated he would vote against the amendment, saying the action "reaffirms and ratifies a structure" that channels public resources to a single private development and was shaped without adequate public debate; he emphasized he does not oppose completing the parkway but could not support reaffirming the prior framework.
The board moved, seconded and adopted the resolution to authorize the amendment and related property conveyances; the motion carried with a recorded 'aye' voice vote and one expressed opposition during discussion.