Charlestown Redevelopment Commission elects officers, approves claims including $206,812 paving payment and advances Hwy 62/3 signage

The Charlestown Redevelopment Commission elected officers and approved claims at its regular meeting on Jan. 6, 2026, in City Hall council chambers.

Derek Coombs was nominated and elected president by acclamation after a motion from Benita Pate and a second from John Spencer; Robert Brooks was elected vice president and Benita Pate was elected secretary. Each nomination passed unanimously, 5-0. The Commission also approved the minutes of its Dec. 2, 2025 meeting by a 5-0 vote.

Jill Saegesser of The Wheatley Group asked that Libs Paving PR#1 and PR#2 be added to the claims docket “in the amount of $206,812.37.” The Commission voted to approve the claims and then voted 5-0 to amend the claims docket to include the Libs Paving items for $206,812.37.

During a discussion of donations and signage, the Commission reviewed two renderings prepared by TSWDesign Group for a proposed sign at the Hwy 62/3 corridor. John Spencer moved that the City and The Wheatley Group proceed with next steps related to the Hwy 62/3 signage; Chuck Deaton seconded and the motion passed 5-0. The City and The Wheatley Group will also gather information related to a proposed gazebo.

The Commission scheduled an executive session for Jan. 15, 2026 at 6:00 PM to discuss a development at the corner of Hwy 62/3; The Wheatley Group will prepare the required meeting notice. Derek Coombs noted the next regular meeting is set for Feb. 5, 2026 at 6:00 PM. With no further business, the meeting was adjourned by a unanimous vote.