Waxhaw board approves youth council, Masonic grant and CIP; ratifies amended Ble Mill traffic agreement

At the July 22 meeting the Waxhaw Board of Commissioners approved several non‑rezoning items the board said aim to improve downtown, municipal services and project accountability.

The board unanimously adopted resolution RES2025022 to create a Waxhaw Youth Council as a one‑year pilot for ages 14–18. Intern presenters described the council’s goals — civic education, pre‑voter registration drives, service projects and promotion of local businesses — and said the pilot will include a rules and procedures document overseen by staff liaisons. Barbie, the town clerk celebrated earlier in the meeting, joined staff in supporting the resolution.

On capital projects, Interim Town Manager Richard Hicks asked the board to approve a recommended FY25–26 CIP list totaling roughly $844,300 that included a Ford F750 dump truck, a sidewalk scarifier, a crack‑sealing machine to extend pavement life, a skate‑park master plan and a $200,000 boost for paving; the board approved the recommendation.

In downtown preservation work, the Historic Preservation Commission recommended two grants: a building‑improvement grant for the Waxhaw Masonic Lodge and roof repairs at Maxwell’s Tavern. The board approved the Masonic Lodge grant for up to 50% of eligible costs not to exceed $55,288, and continued the Maxwell’s Tavern request to a future meeting to allow a budget amendment and final paperwork.

On transportation mitigation matters the board ratified an amended Transportation Mitigation Agreement for Ble Mill Town Homes (Eastwood Homes). The amendment allows a maximum of 30 certificates of occupancy within 12 months if the developer posts a professional‑engineer‑sealed bond at 1.25 times the estimated cost for outstanding roadway work, provides a timeline, and either coordinates construction with nearby Jones Homes so intersection work is consolidated or risks the town calling the bond. "Eastwood Homes shall post a bond for all outstanding traffic mitigations prior to issuance of any certificates of occupancy," the amendment states. The board authorized the interim town manager to execute the amendment.

The meeting also produced administrative votes: the board adopted a deconstruction text amendment (TA0192025) that requires deconstruction plans or delay timeframes for demolition of buildings contributing to local historic districts, and the board recessed for a brief closed session before reconvening and adjourning late in the evening.