Macclesfield board reviews utilities concerns, community events and building repairs

The Macclesfield Board of Commissioners covered a range of town business on March 10, including public works contracts, community events, utility billing concerns and needed repairs at the community building.

Public Works Director Benjy Lassiter is working with Brightspeed on pole‑attachment matters; a draft Pole Attachment Agreement was sent to Town Attorney Gabriel DuSablon for review. The mayor asked staff to follow up on materials and driveway repairs related to recent signage work.

Mayor Michael Speight and Administrator Jennifer Stanley reported donations received and pledged for the July 3 celebration: Holden Temporaries donated $300 in memory of Monteena Harrington, Ace Hardware donated a drill, and Michael Bridgers pledged $1,500. Commissioner Paula Lewis moved, and Commissioner Jason Taylor seconded, a motion allowing Mayor Speight to accept cash donations and purchase raffle prizes; the motion passed with no opposition. Staff will prepare sponsor letters and promote the Easter Egg Hunt (to be coordinated with Webbs Chapel).

Mayor Speight said several tenants told property owner Chris Weaver they may need to move because of high utility bills. Administrator Stanley said unusually high kW usage drove the higher bills and agreed to prepare a profit‑and‑loss report for the town’s electric account for the next meeting. Commissioners also discussed the availability of prepaid 'pay‑as‑you‑go' smart meters as a potential option for customers.

On facilities, Mayor Speight reported the community building needs repairs and updates — exit signs, driveway rock, door repairs, painting and fire extinguisher checks — and suggested adding internet access. He will walk the building with Public Works Director Lassiter and provide a prioritized list of repairs.

With no further business, the board adjourned at 6:50 p.m.