Steering committee adopts Rethink Folly work plan, strikes binding-authority language

The steering committee for Rethink Folly voted to adopt a committee work plan and to remove language that suggested members could bind their respective municipalities to funding or contracts. Chair said the group would update the operating agreement, set clearer attendance expectations and pursue program-management support from the Council of Governments (COG).

The plan calls for an updated, publicly accessible GIS map showing which parts of Folly Road are funded, a May target to have the map ready, a July goal to define a Phase 2 scope and a September public "State of the Plan" meeting to present progress and financing connections. "We have up to $20,000,000 in the 0.5¢ sales tax proposal to help Folly Road improvements," the Chair said, urging members to use the map to show funded versus unfunded work. Committee members agreed to strike the phrase about binding authority after concerns were raised that attendees do not have the power to obligate their governing bodies to funding or contracts.

Committee members discussed administrative needs and whether the COG could provide a dedicated point person for agendas, minutes and website updates. Julia Drayton Crumlin said the Rethink Folly archives exist but are out of date and she will coordinate updates with the group. The motion to adopt the work plan, with the amendment to remove the governing-authority language, passed in committee vote.