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Benson commissioners unanimously approve Language Access Plan, capital purchases, event closures and public art
Summary
The board voted 4-0 to adopt a Language Access Plan (needed for USDA loans), approve multiple budgeted purchase orders and a lease, close streets for two community events, and authorize a one-year sculpture lease outside the library.
At the Aug. 20 meeting, the Benson Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a package of administrative and capital items including a Language Access Plan required for USDA loans, several purchase orders over $30,000, event-related street closures, a vehicle lease for Public Works, and a one-year public-art lease.
Town Manager Kimberly Pickett explained the updated Language Access Plan is required when the town seeks loans from the U.S. Department of Agriculture; Commissioner Maxine Holley moved to adopt the plan and the board voted 4-0. The board also approved two requested street closures: Railroad Street (Main to Parrish) for the Combat Vets event on Sept. 14, 2024, and Parrish Drive (Lee to Johnson) for a market on Nov. 23, 2024. Both motions passed 4-0.
The board approved three budgeted purchase orders over $30,000: Clearwater (approximately $50,000) to repair and upgrade a pump at the Chicopee booster station; Wesco (approximately $74,000) for electrical materials and supplies; and John Deere Quality Equipment (approximately $51,000) for a 2024 John Deere utility tractor funded from Water/Sewer capital. Commissioner Chandler moved the tractor purchase; all were approved 4-0.
Calla Godwin, Assistant Town Manager, presented a lease for a 2024 RAM service-body truck for Public Works with a monthly lease payment of $1,222.39 to be paid from Water/Sewer capital funds; the board approved the lease and also delegated authority to Town Manager Kimberly Pickett to approve future fleet vehicle leases to avoid losing vehicles that become available between meetings (motions passed 4-0).
Tyler Douglas, Public Information Officer, told the board the Art Board selected a new piece called Letter Arch for a one-year lease to be installed outside the library later in the month; the board approved the installation 4-0. Mayor Medlin also explained and the board approved an amended adoption sheet for the Upper Coastal Plain Rural Planning Organization Memo of Understanding because the RPO headquarters moved from Rocky Mount to Wilson.
All motions recorded in the minutes show unanimous 4-0 votes; the minutes do not record dissenting discussion or any failed motions. The board adjourned at 8:04 p.m.
