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Entries for August 2012

31

Concord Weekly Update for August 31, 2012

Posted on August 31, 2012

 

 
Did you know?
Did you know the City of Concord sends out over 35,000 tax bills to raise approximately $41 million? Concord continues to have the lowest property tax rate of full-service North Carolina cities greater than 35,000 in population that do not charge extra fees for solid waste services, at 48 cents per $100 valuation. Property tax revenue is used to fund basic services such as police, fire, solid waste, recreation, and more. Despite strained economic conditions, the City’s collection percentage has remained better than expected, due primarily to the diligence of the Tax Office staff. The final FY 2011-12 collection rate was 98.15 percent. Learn more at concordnc.gov.
 
City of Concord to observe Labor Day on September 3
In observance of Labor Day, City of Concord offices will be closed on Monday, September 3. Garbage, recycling, and bulky waste collection by Waste Pro will operate on a one day delay next week, with Monday’s items collected on Tuesday, and Friday’s items collected on Saturday. However, customers are asked to place all yard waste at the curb by 7 a.m. on Tuesday, September 4. Visit concordnc.gov for more information.
 
Police seek information on missing person Crystal Dawn Morrison
The Concord Police Department is investigating the report of missing person Crystal Dawn Morrison, white female, age 31. She was last seen on Thursday August 23 at about 10:30 a.m. walking on International Drive near the intersection of Davidson Highway. She is approximately 5'3" tall, Blonde/Red hair, blue eyes, and approximately 100 lbs. She was last seen wearing a white blouse with black flower print, black pants, and black open toe shoes. Anyone with any possible information regarding her location, or anyone that might have seen her, is asked to call the Concord Police Department at 704-920-5000, or Cabarrus Crime Stoppers at 704-932-7463 (704-93-CRIME). Visit concordnc.gov for more information and a printable flyer.
 
Concord Housing Department wins first place awards
Concord’s Housing Department team recently received two first place awards at the annual Carolinas Council of Housing, Redevelopment, and Codes Officials conference. Housing’s The Challenger Newsletter was selected best of all competing North Carolina agencies. The semi-annual publication shares community news, information, events, and opportunities, as well as highlighting resident stories and accomplishments.
 
Concord Housing also received first place for the 2012 Human Service Award for the "Cooking Class 101" youth program. The class, held at the Neighborhood Networks Technology Center, teaches youth how to shop for and cook nutritional meals. Concord was selected as the best of all competing North and South Carolina agencies for this award. Congratulations to Housing Director Angela Graham and the Concord Housing team!
 
Permanent closure of Corban Avenue rail crossing coming soon
Soon, motorists traveling in Concord will no longer be able to use Corban Avenue SW cross the railroad tracks near the Cabarrus Avenue Roundabout. NCDOT will permanently close Corban Avenue SW at the at-grade rail crossing, which will improve safety. The closure, which could happen as early as September 4, will accommodate construction of the new Cabarrus Avenue Bridge over the railway. In March, NCDOT announced that a $4.5 million contract was awarded to Blythe Development Co. to replace the existing bridge tracks, which was built in 1917. Structural work is scheduled to be finished by Sept. 14, 2014, with final vegetation work complete by March 11, 2015. To get the latest regional traffic updates from NCDOT, follow their Twitter feeds @NCDOT_Charlotte and @NCDOT_I85.
 
Operation Medicine Cabinet to collect medications, needles on September 8
Concord Police and community partners will host Operation Medicine Cabinet on Saturday, September 8 at MEDICAP Pharmacy, located at 361 George W. Liles Parkway in Concord. The free event, planned from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon, is a way to prevent medications from being discarded into water supplies or other locations that can cause environmental and household safety concerns. Learn more at concordnc.gov or contact Concord Police Sergeant Todd McGhee with questions at 704-920-5000 or mcghet@concordnc.gov.
 
Concord Regional Airport welcomes DNC visitors
Democratic National Convention visitors will find the Concord Regional Airport to be the fastest gateway to metropolitan Charlotte. As the closest general aviation airport to the convention, Concord Regional Airport lets you arrive in style while avoiding both the hassles of bigger airports and the shortcomings of smaller airfields. Learn more on the Concord YouTube Channel, or ConcordAirportNC.com.
 
Community ceremony planned for Tuesday, September 11
Concord Fire and Life Safety invites the public to a community-wide Patriots’ Day remembrance ceremony at 8:30 a.m. on Tuesday, September 11. The brief memorial service will be held at Concord Fire Station 8, located at 1485 Old Charlotte Road.
 
Mayor’s Golf Tournament to benefit youth programs September 28
The fifteenth annual Mayor's Golf Tournament will be held on Friday, September 28 at Rocky River Golf Club. Proceeds from the tournament benefit youth programs in our community, and the deadline to enter is September 21. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Visit concordnc.gov for a registration form and more information.
 
Yard waste collection pilot study August 6 - October 19
Solid Waste Services is evaluating a new yard waste collection procedure until October 19. Customer procedures remain the same; visit concordnc.gov to learn more. Concord provides yard waste disposal and other solid waste services to residents at no additional charge.
 
Parks and Recreation highlights
Please see the Summer 2012 issue of Leisure Times for a full list of programs offered by the Parks and Recreation Department. 
 
Youth basketball registration coming soon
Registration opens September 1 for the 2012-2013 youth basketball season. The league is open to youth ages 4-15, and registration ends September 30. The fee is $30 for City residents or instructional leagues, and $50 for non-residents. For more information or to register online (beginning September 1) visit concordparksandrec.org.
 
United Way adult kickball tournament
Parks and Recreation will be hosting an adult kickball tournament with the proceeds going to support partner agencies of United Way of Central Carolinas. Come relive your youth and join in the fun with this school yard favorite. The double-elimination tournament will be November 10 and 11 at WW Flowe Park. The fee is $110.00 per team, and registration will available September 1 through October 31. For more information or a registration form please visit concordparksandrec.org.
 
Historic Downtown Concord events
If you want the latest information on Historic Downtown Concord news and events please sign up for the CDDC's weekly e-newsletter. Call the CDDC office at 704-784-4208 or email this request to info@concorddowntown.com.
 
Union Street Live!
Third Thursday of each month, May - September
6:00 - 9:00 p.m. on the Historic Courthouse Lawn
 
2012 Schedule
Balsam Range - September 20
 
Take a trip down memory lane at The Galleries
The Cabarrus Arts Council’s High 5 Exhibit in The Galleries and runs through Thursday, October 4. This marks five years that The Galleries has been open, and to celebrate they are welcoming back 50 previously featured artists. Admission is free. The Galleries hours are Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. through 4 p.m. For more information, call 704-920-2787 or visit cabarrusartscouncil.org.
 
City of Concord upcoming meetings
Unless otherwise noted, location is second floor of Municipal Building, 26 Union Street, S.
 
September
9/11/2012 at 4:00 p.m. City Council work session
9/13/2012 at 6:00 p.m. City Council regular session
9/18/2012 at 6:00 p.m. Planning and Zoning Commission
9/20/2012 at 7:00 p.m. Historic Preservation Commission
9/25/2012 at 6:00 p.m. Board of Adjustment
 
Stay Connected!
Visit the City’s website for the latest information and updates at concordnc.gov. Check out our page on Facebook and our other interactive features!
 
Visit concordnc.gov to learn how you can be sure to receive timely updates from the City via phone, text, or email.
 
Tune into 1410-AM WTIX for CityLink Radio each Tuesday at 9:00 a.m.
24

Concord Weekly Update for August 24, 2012

Posted on August 24, 2012

 

 
Did you know?
Did you know over 2,000 subscribers receive the CityLink Newsletter each week? Help your family, friends, neighbors, and others to be in the know by sharing this email and encouraging them to subscribe at concordnc.gov.
 
Concord Police veteran Allen Overcash promoted to Deputy Chief
Long-time Concord Police veteran Allen Overcash was promoted to become the department’s next Deputy Chief. He will begin his new role on Monday, September 3. As Deputy Chief, Overcash will assist Chief Guy Smith with the overall operation of the department. His duties will include developing the budget, formulating policies, coordinating with other law enforcement agencies, and assisting in long-range planning. Visit concordnc.gov to learn more.
 
Concord adjusts purchased power cost recovery tool
City of Concord electric customers may notice a small adjustment in the formula used to calculate their monthly electric bill in September. Since September 2011, the City of Concord has used a Purchased Power Adjustment (PPA) on utility bills to recover the cost of purchasing wholesale power from Duke Energy. This covers only the actual cost of purchasing the wholesale power subject to Duke’s rates, not other operational expenses for the Electric Systems department. Starting September 1, 2012, the PPA will be set at $0.008 per kilowatt hour. This is $0.002 (two-tenths of a cent) higher than the current PPA ($0.006). For more information, visit concordnc.gov.
 
Mayor’s Golf Tournament to benefit youth programs September 28
The fifteenth annual Mayor's Golf Tournament will be held on Friday, September 28 at Rocky River Golf Club. Proceeds from the tournament benefit youth programs in our community, and the deadline to enter is September 21. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Visit concordnc.gov for a registration form and more information.
 
Concord Regional Airport completes FAA inspection
The FAA conducted its mandated comprehensive certification inspection of the Concord Regional Airport this week and determined that the airport continues to meet or exceed all requirements under FAA Regulation Part 139.
 
Part 139 governs the certification and operation of all U.S. commercial airports that have commercial flights. This formal inspection covered all of the airport's airfield operations, including self-inspection programs; pavement management of runway and taxiways; airfield markings, signage, and lighting; training for pedestrians and ground vehicle operators; airport operations and ARFF employee training and inspection records; fueling inspection and records; wildlife mitigation; airport certification manual; and emergency preparedness including review of the recent triennial emergency exercise and response time drill. This year the aircraft rescue firefighting (ARFF) company completed the drill in their best time yet of 2 minutes 36 seconds!
 
Road work scheduled on Copperfield Boulevard
As part of the City of Concord Streets Preservation Contract, Ferebee Corporation will begin patching Copperfield Boulevard between Branchview Drive and I-85 on Tuesday, August 28. Road work will take place during normal daytime business hours. Please use caution when traveling through this area next week.
 
Volunteers needed to welcome DNC visitors
The Democratic National Convention in Charlotte is set for Monday, September 3 through Friday, September 7 and Concord will host 11 state delegations from across the country. If you are age 18 or older, take pride in promoting the region, and enjoy meeting new people, you can sign up to be a Visitor Information Volunteer. Help is needed September 3-7 in three time slots each day: 6:45-11:00 a.m., 10:45 a.m.- 3:00 p.m., and 2:45-7:00 p.m. Sign up at visitcabarrus.com to be considered. For more information, call 704-456-7971.
 
Community ceremony planned for Tuesday, September 11
Concord Fire and Life Safety invites the public to a community-wide Patriots’ Day remembrance ceremony at 8:30 a.m. on Tuesday, September 11. The brief memorial service will be held at Concord Fire Station 8, located at 1485 Old Charlotte Road.
 
Yard waste collection pilot study August 6 - October 19
Solid Waste Services is evaluating a new yard waste collection procedure until October 19. Customer procedures remain the same; visit concordnc.gov to learn more. Concord provides yard waste disposal and other solid waste services to residents at no additional charge.
 
Parks and Recreation highlights
Please see the Summer 2012 issue of Leisure Times for a full list of programs offered by the Parks and Recreation Department. 
 
Youth basketball registration coming soon
Registration opens September 1 for the 2012-2013 youth basketball season. The league is open to youth ages 4-15, and registration ends September 30. The fee is $30 for City residents or instructional leagues, and $50 for non-residents. For more information or to register online (beginning September 1) visit concordparksandrec.org.
 
Couch to 5K Challenge starts Tuesday
The next Couch to 5K session begins Tuesday, August 28 at 6:30 pm at Dorton Park. This group training and exercise program is designed to encourage, motivate, and challenge the individual to compete with peers. No running experience is necessary. The final goal is to run the 5 Alarm 5K on November 3. Registration is $10 and includes a T-shirt. Visit concordparksandrec.org for more information.
 
Adult softball registration ends August 31
Registration for the fall adult softball leagues (Men’s Open, Men’s Church, Women’s, and Co-ed) ends August 31. Registration costs $375 per team. The Men’s Open and Women’s Leagues play on Mondays and Wednesdays. The Church and Co-ed leagues play on Tuesdays and Thursdays. All leagues play at WW Flowe or Les Myers Parks. The league season will include 10 regular season games and a post-season single elimination tournament. More information and a registration form can be found at concordparksandrec.org.
 
Historic Downtown Concord events
If you want the latest information on Historic Downtown Concord news and events please sign up for the CDDC's weekly e-newsletter. Call the CDDC office at 704-784-4208 or email this request to info@concorddowntown.com.
 
Union Street Live!
Third Thursday of each month, May - September
6:00 - 9:00 p.m. on the Historic Courthouse Lawn
 
2012 Schedule
Balsam Range - September 20
 
Take a trip down memory lane at The Galleries
The Cabarrus Arts Council’s High 5 Exhibit in The Galleries and runs through Thursday, October 4. This marks five years that The Galleries has been open, and to celebrate they are welcoming back 50 previously featured artists. Admission is free. The Galleries hours are Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. through 4 p.m. For more information, call 704-920-2787 or visit cabarrusartscouncil.org.
 
City of Concord upcoming meetings
Unless otherwise noted, location is second floor of Municipal Building, 26 Union Street, S.
 
August
8/28/2012 at 6:00 p.m. Board of Adjustment
September
9/11/2012 at 4:00 p.m. City Council work session
9/13/2012 at 6:00 p.m. City Council regular session
9/18/2012 at 6:00 p.m. Planning and Zoning Commission
9/20/2012 at 7:00 p.m. Historic Preservation Commission
 
Stay Connected!
Visit the City’s website for the latest information and updates at concordnc.gov. Check out our page on Facebook and our other interactive features!
 
Visit concordnc.gov to learn how you can be sure to receive timely updates from the City via phone, text, or email.
 
Tune into 1410-AM WTIX for CityLink Radio each Tuesday at 9:00 a.m.
17

Concord Weekly Update for August 17, 2012

Posted on August 17, 2012

 

Did you know?
Did you know the City of Concord operates under the Council-Manager form of government with the City Council appointing a professional manager? Professional managers oversee the day-to-day operations of more than 59 percent of cities and towns with a population of 2,500 and over, and 27 percent of counties across America. Brian Hiatt has served as Concord’s City Manager since 1998 and currently is president of the North Carolina City and County Management Association. Learn more about the Council-Manager form of government at icma.org.
 
Rocky River Golf Club to unveil new ultra dwarf Bermuda Greens August 20
Rocky River Golf Club, Concord’s municipal golf course, will unveil its new ultra dwarf Bermuda greens on Monday, August 20 and offer customer appreciation rates the entire week. The club spent the summer converting its greens from bent grass, which often struggles in hot weather, to Mini Verde Bermuda grass. Mini Verde is a modern turf that provides smooth putting surfaces and thrives in hot weather. The project began in June and progressed on schedule, even with 100-degree heat in late June and early July.
 
As a show of appreciation to its golfers who have been playing on temporary greens, Rocky River will offer reduced rates the week of Aug. 20-26. The rate for 18 holes that Monday through Thursday will be $40, instead of the usual $49. Friday’s rate will be $45 instead of $55, and the weekend rate will be $55 instead of $65.
 
Golfers who visit Rocky River after this project will notice several improvements. In addition to the new turf, contours and slopes on several greens have been softened, while the greens have been enlarged closer to original specifications. Three bunkers were also removed. Additionally, all yardages were re-measured and updated, yardage markers have been added to cart paths, and new signage and tee markers will be in place.
 
Visit rockyrivergolf.com to book a tee time or to register youth for the FREE Mayor’s Junior Tournament on August 22.
 
Community ceremony planned for Tuesday, September 11
Concord Fire and Life Safety invites the public to a community-wide Patriots’ Day remembrance ceremony at 8:30 a.m. on Tuesday, September 11. The brief memorial service will be held at Concord Fire Station 8, located at 1485 Old Charlotte Road.
 
Yard waste collection pilot study August 6 - October 19
Solid Waste Services is evaluating a new yard waste collection procedure until October 19. Customer procedures remain the same; visit concordnc.gov to learn more. Concord provides yard waste disposal and other solid waste services to residents at no additional charge.
 
Parks and Recreation highlights
Please see the Summer 2012 issue of Leisure Times for a full list of programs offered by the Parks and Recreation Department. 
 
Take the Couch to 5K Challenge
The next Couch to 5K session begins Tuesday, August 28 at 6:30 pm at Dorton Park. This group training and exercise program is designed to encourage, motivate, and challenge the individual to compete with peers. No running experience is necessary. The final goal is to run the 5 Alarm 5K on November 3. Registration is $10 and includes a T-shirt. Visit concordparksandrec.org for more information.
 
Fall 2012 Adult Softball registration now available
The Parks and Recreation Department is currently taking registration for the Fall Softball Leagues (Men’s Open, Men’s Church, Women’s, and Co-ed). Registration costs $375 per team and is available until August 31. The Men’s Open and Women’s Leagues play on Mondays and Wednesdays. The Church and Co-ed leagues play on Tuesdays and Thursdays. All leagues play at WW Flowe or Les Myers Parks. The league season will include 10 regular season games and a post-season single elimination tournament. More information and a registration form can be found at concordparksandrec.org.
 
Historic Downtown Concord events
If you want the latest information on Historic Downtown Concord news and events please sign up for the CDDC's weekly e-newsletter. Call the CDDC office at 704-784-4208 or email this request to info@concorddowntown.com.
 
Union Street Live!
Third Thursday of each month, May - September
6:00 - 9:00 p.m. on the Historic Courthouse Lawn
 
2012 Schedule
Balsam Range - September 20
 
Take a trip down memory lane at The Galleries
The Cabarrus Arts Council’s High 5 Exhibit will open on Monday, August 13 in The Galleries and run through Thursday, October 4. This marks five years that The Galleries has been open, and to celebrate they are welcoming back 50 previously featured artists. Admission is free. The Galleries hours are Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. through 4 p.m. For more information, call 704-920-2787 or visit cabarrusartscouncil.org.
 
City of Concord upcoming meetings
Unless otherwise noted, location is second floor of Municipal Building, 26 Union Street, S.
 
August
8/21/2012 at 6:00 p.m. Planning and Zoning Commission
8/28/2012 at 6:00 p.m. Board of Adjustment
 
September
9/11/2012 at 4:00 p.m. City Council work session
9/13/2012 at 6:00 p.m. City Council regular session
9/20/2012 at 7:00 p.m. Historic Preservation Commission
 
Stay Connected!
Visit the City’s website for the latest information and updates at concordnc.gov. Check out our page on Facebook and our other interactive features!
 
Visit concordnc.gov to learn how you can be sure to receive timely updates from the City via phone, text, or email.
 
Tune into 1410-AM WTIX for CityLink Radio each Tuesday at 9:00 a.m.
10

Concord Weekly Update for August 10, 2012

Posted on August 10, 2012

 

Did you know?
Did you know that certified professionals with the Concord Department of Fire and Life Safety provide free inspection and installation of child safety seats for vehicles? Free car seat checks are available every Monday (except holidays) from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Concord Fire Station 3, located at 100 Warren C. Coleman Boulevard N. You can visit seatcheck.org to locate other locations in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s listing. Certified inspectors at these locations can provide guidance on proper child restraint use and installation.
 
Highlights of the August 9 City Council Meeting
Please visit concordnc.gov to see the Council Agenda in its entirety.
 
Presented the Quarterly Shining STAR Award to Concord Police officers Timothy Mullins and Jake Harkey for life-saving actions.
 
Presented the 100 Best Fleets Award to Concord Fleet Services for the third consecutive year. 
 
Administered the Oath of Office to newly appointed Board and Commission Members: Lee Gray (Historic Preservation Commission), John Sullivan (Board of Adjustment), and Robert Carpenter (Planning and Zoning Commission).
 
Conducted a continued public hearing, received an amended voluntary annexation petition, and adopted an ordinance for the annexation of property owned by NW Southeast Holdings LLC, Regent Homes, Hallstead Homeowner’s Association, and True Homes, LLC.
 
Conducted a public hearing and adopted an ordinance for the annexation of a parcel of land owned by Shea Real Estate Investments, LLC/John F. Shea, Jr.
 
Conducted a public hearing and declined adopting an ordinance amending Article 8 of the Concord Development Ordinance (CDO).
 
Conducted a public hearing and adopted an ordinance amending Article 10 of the CDO to include a Complete Streets initiative.
 
Adopted a resolution removing from the HUD 108 loan collateral an additional .029 acres to be given to Memorial Gardens and .519 acres to be subdivided and sold for development.
 
Authorized the City Manager to sign a right of entry on City of Concord property located adjacent to Cabarrus Avenue to the North Carolina Department of Transportation for the Cabarrus Avenue Bridge Replacement Project.
 
Energy demand is high during hot weather, City offers conservation tips
As the swelter of this summer continues in Concord, residents are scurrying for the comfort of their air conditioned homes. This July was one of the hottest on record. Weather conditions can have an enormous effect not only on cooling systems, but also on other refrigeration appliances, and they greatly impact energy usage. Visit concordnc.gov to learn about this impact and how you can conserve energy.
 
Community ceremony planned for Sunday, September 11
Concord Fire and Life Safety invites the public to a community-wide Patriots’ Day remembrance ceremony at 8:30 a.m. on Tuesday, September 11. The brief memorial service will be held at Concord Fire Station 8, located at 1485 Old Charlotte Road.
 
Yard waste collection pilot study August 6 - October 19
Solid Waste Services is evaluating a new yard waste collection procedure until October 19. Customer procedures remain the same; visit concordnc.gov to learn more. Concord provides yard waste disposal and other solid waste services to residents at no additional charge.
 
Parks and Recreation highlights
Please see the Summer 2012 issue of Leisure Times for a full list of programs offered by the Parks and Recreation Department. 
 
Fall 2012 Adult Softball registration now available
The Parks and Recreation Department is currently taking registration for the Fall Softball Leagues (Men’s Open, Men’s Church, Women’s, and Co-ed). Registration costs $375 per team and is available until August 31. The Men’s Open and Women’s Leagues play on Mondays and Wednesdays. The Church and Co-ed leagues play on Tuesdays and Thursdays. All leagues play at WW Flowe or Les Myers Parks. The league season will include 10 regular season games and a post-season single elimination tournament. More information and a registration form can be found at concordparksandrec.org.
 
Pool season is winding down
The John F. McInnis Aquatic Center will close for the 2012 season on Saturday, August 18. The pool will reopen for the summer 2013 season on June 8, 2013. The pool offers affordable youth and adult opportunities such as open swim, water aerobics, and swimming lessons. The Aquatic Center strives to provide services to enrich the lives of all residents and the opportunity for participants to have a healthy lifestyle. For more information, visit concordparksandrec.org. 
 
Historic Downtown Concord events
If you want the latest information on Historic Downtown Concord news and events please sign up for the CDDC's weekly e-newsletter. Call the CDDC office at 704-784-4208 or email this request to info@concorddowntown.com.
 
Union Street Live!
Third Thursday of each month, May - September
6:00pm - 9:00pm on the Historic Courthouse Lawn
 
2012 Schedule
Craig Woolard Band - August 16
Balsam Range - September 20
 
Take a trip down memory lane at The Galleries
The Cabarrus Arts Council’s High 5 Exhibit will open on Monday, August 13 in The Galleries and run through Thursday, October 4. This marks five years that The Galleries has been open, and to celebrate they are welcoming back 50 previously featured artists. Admission is free. The Galleries hours are Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. through 4 p.m. For more information, call 704-920-2787 or visit cabarrusartscouncil.org.
 
City of Concord upcoming meetings
Unless otherwise noted, location is second floor of Municipal Building, 26 Union Street, S.
 
August
8/16/2012 at 7:00 p.m. Historic Preservation Commission
8/21/2012 at 6:00 p.m. Planning and Zoning Commission
8/28/2012 at 6:00 p.m. Board of Adjustment
 
September
9/11/2012 at 4:00 p.m. City Council work session
9/13/2012 at 6:00 p.m. City Council regular session
 
Stay Connected!
Visit the City’s website for the latest information and updates at concordnc.gov. Check out our page on Facebook and our other interactive features!
 
Visit concordnc.gov to learn how you can be sure to receive timely updates from the City via phone, text, or email.
 
Tune into 1410-AM WTIX for CityLink Radio each Tuesday at 9:00 a.m.
03

Concord Weekly Update for August 3, 2012

Posted on August 03, 2012

 

Did you know?
Did you know there are local and national resources to help you grow a small business? The Small Business Center at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College (SBC) is at the heart of small business resources in Concord, Kannapolis, Salisbury and surrounding towns. Whether you want to start a small business or grow an existing business, the SBC can help you develop a plan of action for lasting success. Visit rccc.edu/sbc for more information. Since its founding on July 30, 1953, the U.S. Small Business Administration has delivered about 20 million loans, loan guarantees, contracts, counseling sessions, and other forms of assistance to small businesses. For additional information about the Small Business Administration and the service they offer, visit sba.gov. For more information about business development in Concord, visit concordnc.gov.
 
City of Concord tax bills arriving soon
The City of Concord will mail City property tax bills soon. Property owners should receive bills during the first week of August. Under North Carolina law, bills are due September 3, 2012, and will not be past due until January 8, 2013. The City continues to have one of the lowest tax rates with cities of comparable size in North Carolina at 48 cents per $100 valuation. Information about payment options is available at concordnc.gov.
 
Yard waste collection pilot study August 6 - October 19
Solid Waste Services will evaluate a new yard waste collection procedure during a pilot period between August 6 and October 19. Customer procedures will remain the same; visit concordnc.gov to learn more. Concord provides yard waste disposal and other solid waste services to residents at no additional charge.
 
National Night Out – take a stand against crime
National Night Out is coming the first Tuesday in August! On August 7, 2012 neighborhoods across the nation will join together to take a stand against crime. In observance of NNO, the Concord Police Department asks that at minimum you leave your porch light on from 7:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. The porch light is a symbol of alertness and awareness; it also makes your neighbors and friends feel welcome. Get to know your neighbors better by going door to door and introducing yourself if you have not done so in the past. Take a stand against crime, start a neighborhood watch in your community. Information about how to start a neighborhood watch is available at concordnc.gov. To learn more about National Night out and the National Association of Town Watch, visit nno.org.
 
Parks and Recreation highlights
Please see the Summer 2012 issue of Leisure Times for a full list of programs offered by the Parks and Recreation Department. 
 
Parks and Recreation is currently making improvements and enhancements to the Lake Fisher recreation area. The improvements include a vending area for customers, a new equipment shed, and roof on the boat house. We are currently updating and improving customer access to the boat rental building with the addition of a new deck and access ramp. The hours of operation for the 2012 Season are Wednesday through Saturday - 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and Sunday - 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. More information is available at concordnc.gov.
 
The Chilly Willy Wednesdays summer program continues in the large shelter at Dorton Park with one session left in August. Snacks and Chilly Willies will be provided. Bring a bag lunch. Visit concordnc.gov for details, and contact Taylor Morris with questions at 704-920-5616 or morrist@concordnc.gov.
 
Historic Downtown Concord events
If you want the latest information on Historic Downtown Concord news and events please sign up for the CDDC's weekly e-newsletter. Call the CDDC office at 704-784-4208 or email this request to info@concorddowntown.com.
 
Union Street Live!
Third Thursday of each month, May - September
6:00pm - 9:00pm on the Historic Courthouse Lawn
 
2012 Schedule
Craig Woolard Band - August 16
Balsam Range - September 20
 
City of Concord upcoming meetings
Unless otherwise noted, location is second floor of Municipal Building, 26 Union Street, S.
 
August
8/7/2012 at 4:00 p.m. City Council work session
8/9/2012 at 6:00 p.m. City Council regular session
8/16/2012 at 7:00 p.m. Historic Preservation Commission
8/21/2012 at 6:00 p.m. Planning and Zoning Commission
8/28/2012 at 6:00 p.m. Board of Adjustment
 
Stay Connected!
Visit the City’s website for the latest information and updates at concordnc.gov. Check out our page on Facebook and our other interactive features!
 
Visit concordnc.gov to learn how you can be sure to receive timely updates from the City via phone, text, or email.
 
Tune into 1410-AM WTIX for CityLink Radio each Tuesday at 9:00 a.m.