Board to discuss access road, railroad depot

Havelock commissioners are expected to consider a proposal for an entrance to a service road near Wal-Mart at their meeting Monday night.

Scott Chase, the city’s planning director, is expected to make the presentation about a lane off U.S. 70 that would allow easier access to Rice’s Rentaland and Roberts Body Shop.

Owners at both businesses expressed concerns to the Havelock News in January that a median installed on Catawba Road was limiting access to their businesses and causing problems for trucks and tow trucks trying to get in and out.

An estimate on construction of the road is $9,828, and according to city documents, would not be covered by Powell Bill funds that are reserved for city street improvements.

Commissioners are also expected to get an update on the railroad depot renovation project. Exterior renovations have been completed, and the Havelock Historical Preservation Society aims to create a railroad museum at the site.

Also during Monday night’s meeting, City Manager Jim Freeman is expected to discuss a $2,025 civil penalty against the city for exceeding its sewer discharge. The incident happened in August, and according to city documents, could have been from someone illegally dumping discharge from a septic tank into the system.

Freeman is also expected to update commissioners on negotiations to purchase property near the city’s recreation complex and discuss with the board the Super 70 Corridor Commission public information meeting held Jan. 17.

The Board of Commissioners meeting is scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. Monday at Havelock City Hall.