Morning Minute: Friday, February 5, 2021

News About Town: The Board of Commissioners meeting agenda is available online. There are several Planning and Zoning Related Actions to be voted on for approval or denial during the upcoming meeting.  :

•  Zoning Application 2020-717/Idlewild Senior Living to change the zoning classification from R-15 (a single-family designation) to Residential/Industrial Conditional Use (R/I[CD]) at 9832 Idlewild Road and further to accommodate a 128 unit senior living facility. This Item was deferred from January 11. Minor changes have been made since the January meeting. Updated plans can be found here.

• Zoning Application 2020-720/Lowe’s to change the existing Business/Shopping Center (w/over 100,000 sq. ft.) Conditional Zoning (B1[SCD]) conditions in the Sycamore Commons shopping center, 2115 Matthews Township Parkway, to allow the construction of a 3,000 square foot enclosed addition with a 1,500 square foot equipment storage area to the existing Lowe’s building. Clarifications can be found in this memo.

•  Zoning Application 2020-721/text amendment to amend the text to the UDO regarding open space requirement of the Concentrated Multifamily (C-MF) zoning district. Some clarification and compromise was made at the previous Board meeting as is summarized in the 2020-721 memo.

•  Zoning Application 2020-723/Harkey to change the zoning classification from R-12 (single-family) to R-12 MF (CD) at 2026 Matthews-Mint Hill Road to allow for a combination of single-family, townhomes, and duplexes. Five units will be priced at 80% area median income, creating a more affordable housing option in Matthews. More details here. 

• Public Improvement Variance allowing the replacement of a storage building that is approximately 3 or 4 feet into a SWIM buffer. Details here.

• Public Improvement Variance – Fiorenza/Four Corners requests the elimination of a sidewalk/multi-use path along Sam Newell Road and curb and gutter on Lakeview Circle in exchange for deeding an eight-acre piece of the parcel to the town for future park use. The multiuse path and curb and gutter were part of the original rezoning agreement.

As a reminder, an early meeting starts at 5:30 pm and the regular meeting starts at 7 pm, Monday, February 8. The Board will meet via Zoom (link here, meeting ID 938 8104 5575). To listen live, call toll free 888-788-0099 and enter the meeting ID 938 8104 5575. A livestream of the meeting will also be available via the Town of Matthews YouTube Channel. For more information, including the process for public comment, visit the town website.

Image via Unsplash @sincerelymedia

News Around Town: The Town of Matthews is hosting a Red cross Blood Drive at Town Hall on Thursday, February 18 from 10 am to 2:30 pm. Not only does the Red Cross always need blood and plasma, giving during the pandemic can be especially helpful. According to the Red Cross website, "The American Red Cross is testing all blood, platelet and plasma donations for COVID-19 antibodies. As part of that effort, plasma from whole blood donations that test positive for COVID-19 antibodies may now help current coronavirus patients in need of convalescent plasma transfusions.” If you’ve received the Coronavirus vaccine, know the brand of vaccine you received when you go in for your donation time. For more information on COVID and donating blood, visit the Red Cross site. Schedule your donation time online (search for MATTHEWSTOWN under “Find a Drive” to streamline the process.

Morning Minute: Thursday, February 4, 2021

News About Town: The Board of Commissioners meeting agenda is available online. An early meeting starts at 5:30 pm and the regular meeting starts at 7 pm, Monday, February 8. The Board will meet via Zoom (link here, meeting ID 938 8104 5575). To listen live, call toll free 888-788-0099 and enter the meeting ID 938 8104 5575. A livestream of the meeting will also be available via the Town of Matthews YouTube Channel. For more information, including the process for public comment, visit the town website.

The 5:30 pm meeting will be an info sharing session about the Independence Blvd. widening project. During the first meeting of the month the Board discusses planning and zoning items. There are several public hearing items as well as several items to be voted on for approval or denial during the upcoming meeting.

Public Hearings include 2020-722/Capital Independence, a mixed-use development near Highway 51 and Independence Blvd. The public hearing for this project was opened in January but continued until this meeting so the developer could make changes based on feedback. Application 2020-724/Park Place Matthews Phase 3 is a request for a sixth townhome on a parcel on Sadie Drive that has been approved for five townhomes. Application 2020-725/Moore is requesting feedback for the development of eight duets (sixteen units) on a parcel on Pleasant Plains. The Planning Department believes this public hearing should be postponed until March 8.

News Around Town: The Butler High School Band had a bit of bad luck lately—it was stolen on Christmas day, found, then stolen again last month. The second time around the trailer was involved in an accident and requires over $2,000 in repairs. The Butler Band Boosters is holding a raffle for a year of Chick-fil-A to pay for the repairs. Every $10 raffle ticket purchased will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win the Grand Prize* of 52 Chick-fil-A $10 gift cards! That's one gift card for every week of the year - a $520 value! All the necessary deets are here.

Morning Minute: Wednesday, February 3, 2021

News About Matthews: Advisory Boards for the Town of Matthews aid in decision making with a variety of community concerns and provide an opportunity for community members to play a role in the creation of town-wide policy. Currently there are vacancies on many of the advisory boards and applications are being accepted. Boards in need of volunteers include:

• Appearance/Tree Board,

• Board of Adjustment (alternate),

• Cultural Diversity Committee,

• Committee on Education (requires resume submission with application),

• Environmental Advisory Committee,

• Economic Development Advisory Committee,

• Planning Board (alternate),

• Veterans Advisory Committee.

The Citizen Participation Handbook gives the who/what/where. If you are interested in serving, submit an application to Town Clerk Lori Canapinno before end of business on Friday, February 12.

Image via Unsplash @mbornhurst

News Around Town: For most of us by now, mask wearing is a habit. If you’re out and find others not complying with the state mask mandate, here are a few options: First, call and report the problem to 311. This is a county number and they distribute calls to localities. You can also call the local, non-emergency police line (704-841-6787) to report a complaint. The Matthews Police will visit the site and educate staff on the expectations of mask-wearing. Under the Governor’s Executive Order, repeated offenses may result in a Class 2 misdemeanor, which could result in a fine of up to $1,000 or active punishment.

One Good Thing: Fullwood Market, 131 E John St B, is graciously offering free breakfast or lunch to any medical professional, police/fire/EMT this week. Bring an ID or wear your uniform and they’ll take care of the rest.

Morning Minute: Monday, February 1, 2021

News About Matthews: The Board will hold several Public Hearings for zoning-related issues during the Board of Commissioners Meeting on Monday, February 8. Application 2020-725 is a request By Goodwin Custom Homes to change the zoning from R-20 (a Single-Family designation with a minimum lot size 20,000 square feet) to R-VS (Residential Varied Style, a higher density single-family residential zoning). The proposed change for 2132 Pleasant Plains Road, a parcel adjacent to the Matthews Tennis Club and across from Brightmoor, would include eight duets (also known as duplexes) on a 3. 236 acre lot. Seven single-family homes are allowed by the current R-20 zoning.

Image via Unsplash @unitednations

News Around Matthews: Mecklenburg County Health Director Gibbie Harris extended her COVID directive through the end of February, 2021. Though COVID numbers are moving in the right direction, percentages and hospitalizations are still high. In Matthews, the Crews Road Rec Center and Matthews Community Center will remain closed until February 28. Classes being offered through Zoom will continue to be offered online.

Per Harris’ directive:

• Wear a mask at all times and maintain physical distance (at least 6 feet) from people when outside your home.

• Masks continue to be the most highly effective way of mitigating the spread of COVID-19, along with social distancing and washing hands. Masks do not replace the need for social distancing or washing hands. All three actions are needed to reduce the risk of spread.

• Do not enter any indoor public spaces, including any eating or drinking establishments, where anyone is unmasked or when you see crowds of people who are not physically distanced.

  Gatherings:

• Avoid gathering with individuals that you do not live with. Multiple households should not co-mingle. If you cannot avoid gathering, gather outdoors with as few people as possible, but no more than 25 people. Ensure all attendees are wearing a mask at all times and avoid activities that require the removal of your face covering, such as consuming food and beverage.

• Avoid settings where people may congregate in large numbers, such as entertainment venues, airports, shopping malls, sporting events, etc.

Morning Minute: Thursday, January 28, 2021

News About Town: We’re entering that mushy time of year again, where pink and red hearts adorn front doors and Target looks like Hallmark and Pepto Bismol had a catastrophic collision. This February, show your love for the Town of Matthews by entering the first-ever Love Matthews Photo Contest. Capture a photo of something in Matthews then makes your heart skip a beat. Submit your work in one of three categories: Professional, Amateur, or Youth (15 & under). One photo submissions per person will be accepted from February 1st at 9 am through February 14th at 5 pm. Judging will take place February 15-28.

News Around Town: Non-Toxic Neighborhoods, a non-profit that promotes organic and regenerative land management principles that eliminate exposure between children and synthetic pesticides, is partnering with the Town of Matthews to train landscaping staff on organic methods of weed control. The town will eliminate use of glyphosate (commonly known as Round Up) on public property around both community gardens. In conjunction with the training, Stonyfield Organic will present the town with a $10,000 grant to further Town efforts in sustainability.

Morning Minute: Tuesday, January 26, 2021

News Around Town: One of the most popular Culture Blocks programs through ASC are the workshops with Clayworks. Thanks to the pandemic, Clayworks is offering the popular program via Zoom, which also means there are more spaces per class to participate. Register online, pick up your air dry clay from the Independence Branch (6000 Conference Dr., Charlotte, NC 28212), then learn from the Clayworks staff several different ways to build with clay. Need inspiration? This is exactly why we have Pinterest!

Image via Unsplash @dreamcraftlove

One Good Thing: Looking for a way to get more active? WFH step count limited to bathroom breaks and refrigerator runs? WFAE has a Charlotte Walks challenge through the end of February. Rest assured, Matthews can walk, too.

Yikes, the difference an “1” can make. Livable Meck’s lunchtime session about the County Budget is actually on Tuesday, February 2, at noon. (We originally reported Friday, February 12.) Registration is required for the virtual (WebEx) event.

Morning Minute: Monday, January 25, 2021

News About Town: The January 25 Board of Commissioners meeting agenda is available online. To watch live, the meeting is available via Zoom (link here, enter meeting ID 960 8336 8544). A livestream of the meeting will also be available via the Town of Matthews YouTube Channel. To listen live, call toll free 888-788-0099 and enter meeting ID 960 8336 8544.

Interesting items include a presentation from Mecklenburg County Public Health Director Gibbie Harris; discussion of McKee Road extension (from Pleasant Plains to John Street); and a discussion around tree save ordinances.

The meeting starts at 7 pm. For more information, including the process for public comment, visit the town website.

Credit: Mecklenburg County Budget Simulator

One Good Thing: Livable Meck, a conglomerate of local governments, non-profits businesses, and residents in Mecklenburg County, is hosting a lunchtime session about the County Budget on Friday, February 12, at noon. The session will cover how funds are allocated and provide opportunity for input and feedback on the FY22 County budget. Registration is required for the virtual (WebEx) event. Registration closes Monday, February 1.

Morning Minute: Thursday, January 21, 2021

News About Town: The Matthews Committee on Education was formed in 2018 as an all-things-education advisory board to the Board of Commissioners. The committee recently finished a comprehensive guide listing schools located within 8 miles of downtown Matthews. The guide provides an overview of school curriculum, contact information, and extracurricular activities. The committee compiled the School Resource Guide as one method for Matthews parents to find a good educational match for their children. Learn more here.

Image via Unsplash

One Good Thing: Today, January 21, Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist (381 Crestdale Road) will host the Atrium Mobile COVID Testing unit from 8 am to 2:30 pm. The testing clinic is drive-through, making the process relatively painless (except, you know, when they stick the swab up your nose). For the safety of employees and others, please wear a mask.

The state guidelines have opened vaccine availability to people 65 and older. In addition to the county vaccine clinics, Atrium and Novant have vaccines available. Appointments have, at times, been difficult to come by. Check back, times are opening up as more vaccines become available.

Morning Minute: Wednesday, January 20, 2021

News About Town: With rising rates of COVID in Mecklenburg County, the Town of Matthews has closed the Community Center and Crews Road Rec Center through Tuesday, February 2. These closures reflect the recent Mecklenburg County Public Health Directive. In-person classes and activities may be available via Zoom. If you are enrolled in a Parks and Rec class and have not been contacted by your instructor, contact your instructor directly or call the Matthews Community Center at 704-321-7275 or Crews Recreation Center at 704-708-1289. Remote learning for CMS students will continue at Crews Road.

Yard waste bags are available at area recycling centers.

One Good Thing: Teachers and school support staff, tJanuary is your month to receive 10% at Backporch Treasures, 119 N. Ames St.

Another Good Thing: Don’t forget! Free paper yard waste bags are available through the county at various recycling centers around Mecklenburg Co. These bags can be chucked right in the yard waste trucks, eliminating the step of emptying plastic bags. Hickory Grove is the closest distribution point. If you don’t want to drive, they’re also available at Lowe’s and Target. Visit the county website for more info.

Morning Minute: Tuesday, January 19, 2021

News About Town: Several advisory board meetings are coming up. The Transportation Advisory Committee meets at 7 pm on Wednesday, January 20, via Zoom. The Appearance and Tree Committee will meet on Monday, January 25, at 7 pm on Zoom. Tuesday, January 26, the Planning Board, and the Cultural Diversity Committee will each meet at 7 pm. Follow the calendar on the Town’s website for changes and updates.

News Around Town: Last week the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School Board voted (8-1) to delay returning to in-person learning until mid-February. The Board decision will return pre-K, elementary, K-8 and students with disabilities who have been identified through an IEP process to receive in-person services to class on Feb. 15. Students in traditional middle and high schools will return to in-person instruction on Feb. 22. In response to a 16% positivity rate county-wide, Mecklenburg County Health Director Gibbie Harris issued a directive recommending “full-virtual options for work, school and any other activity where in-person activity is not required.” This directive remains in effect until February 2.

One Good Thing: On Sunday, January 17, Pastor Larry Whitley and Mayor John Higdon presented Independence High student Faith Smith with the annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Scholarship from Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist and Matthews United Methodist Churches (34:27 mark via Facebook). This is the fifth year that Matthews-area churches have presented the MLK scholarship.

Morning Minute: Friday, January 15, 2021

News About Town: During the Board Meeting this past Monday (January 11), the Board held four public hearings on applications to amend the Unified Development Ordinance and Land Use Map.

The hearings included two for an apartment complex proposed adjacent to the exit ramp at Independence and Matthews Township (a text amendment and a change in zoning classification). This complex consists of 216 total units: a mix of townhomes, and apartments. This item will come back before the Board for further discussion on February 8.

The third public hearing was for a townhome and duet (duplex) development (62 units total) priced under $300,000. The site, 2026 Matthews-Mint Hill Road) is adjacent to Butler High School and is 9.43 acres. This item will go before the Planning Board on January 26.

The fourth item, a request to allow the construction of six townhomes on Sadie Drive where five have been previously approved, was deferred until February 8.

One Fun Thing: Join Matthews Naturalist and HAWK President Daniel Jakobovits and the Sierra Club Central Piedmont Group at 6:30 pm on Thursday, January 21, to officially kickstart your spring garden planning. Daniel will present Ecology Gardening - Make Your Yard a Better Place, sharing tips on how to be a land steward in your own backyard. by building a robust ecosystem. Register here for the Zoom presentation.

Morning Minute: Thursday, January 14, 2021

News About Town: During the Board Meeting this past Monday (January 11), the Board reviewed three Planning and Zoning related actions.

The first item,  Zoning Application 2020-717/Idlewild Senior Living would change the 6.16 acre lot at 9832 Idlewild Road from single family to accommodate an 129-unit senior living facility in the R/I Zoning District. The Board of Commissioners vote was deferred to the February 8 meeting.

Zoning Application 2020-720/Lowe’s was also deferred to February 8. This action would allow the construction of a 3,000 square foot enclosed addition with a 1,500 square foot equipment storage area to the existing Lowe’s building at Sycamore Commons.

The third item was a request for an Administrative Amendment, allowing a change in plant type on the berm/buffer and to clarify a note on the rezoning petition for Mount Harmony Townhomes.

Elevations of Cypress Senior Living, a retirement community proposed for a 6 acre parcel on Idlewild Road

News Around Town: Less than two years into his tenure, Arts and Science Council President Jeep Bryant announced his resignation for the end of this month. Jeep started at ASC during a funding crisis and jumped in by restructuring the budget. Less than a year later, the pandemic began and Jeep presided over 40 emergency meetings among area cultural organizations, helping those organizations find ways to stay afloat.

One Fun Thing: Wishful recyclers will benefit from Mecklenburg County’s free "Learn from Home Webinars,” beginning on January 26, 2021. Register and learn what can actually be recycled and how to prepare recycling in a course taught by Mecklenburg County Residential Recycling Educators. Participants will be entered to win prizes, but you must register to participate.

Morning Minute: Tuesday, January 12, 2021

News About Town: The Board of Commissioners received an update from Jason Lawrence, Senior Transportation Manager of the Charlotte Area Transit System, about the Rail Tail portion of the Silver Line light rail project. The Rail Trail is something of a hybrid between a linear park (think greenway) and multimodal transportation path which will extend the length of the Silver Line. Jason touched on the use of e-scooters and the need for mobility hubs along the length. The Trail will increase alternate modes of travel, as well as provide space for recreation and last mile connection from the Silver Line.

Image via City of Charlotte Rail Trail web page

One Good Thing: Starting next Monday, United Way organizations throughout the country will host Racial Equity 21-Day Challenges in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The challenge consists of daily actions to learn about racism in modern America, opportunities for reflection and growth, and habit-building practices to deepen understanding of inequities in the community. To honor Dr. King’s commitment to service, the challenge features weekly call-to-action drives to benefit area nonprofits. United Way Charlotte is hosting a challenge online. For more information or to join a local group, email lmiller@uwcentralcarolinas.org.

Morning Minute: Friday, January 8, 2021

News About Town: Matthews Police Department have added a new button to their mobile app that covers all things COVID. The app covers crime and connects you to the local department. This button links you to vaccine and testing locations, as well as information about common scams related to COVID.

Image via Unsplash photographer @DamianMcCoig

News Around Town: Will we or won’t we get snow? That is the question. Weather sites are saying yes, but the chances of anything sticking are very low. Now that we’re all well-acquainted with working from home and online learning, snow days are a thing of the past anyway. Meteorologist Brad Panovich thinks we’ll see something in the evening, but nothing substantial. Watch out for icy roads Saturday morning, though, and stay safe!

Morning Minute: Thursday, January 7, 2021

News About Town: The Monday, January 11 Board of Commissioners meeting agenda is available online.

At 5:30 pm, the Board will hear a presentation by Charlotte Area Transit System staff about the rail trail, a multi-use path that will run relatively parallel along the length of the Silver Line. The regular meeting starts at 7 pm. To watch live, the meetings are available via Zoom. A livestream will also be available via the Town of Matthews YouTube Channel. To listen live, call toll free 888-788-0099 and enter meeting ID 912 2906 9107. For more information, including the process for public comment, visit the town website.

Interesting items include a discussion of local issues with North Carolina District 37 Senator Jeff Jackson, a COVID update from Novant Health Matthews Medical Center President/COO Jason Bernd, and a discussion of transportation projects that may benefit from the Charlotte Moves initiative.

News Around Town: Matthews Police have seen an increase in the theft of catalytic converters from vehicles in Matthews. Most targeted are Priuses in residential areas and and work trucks in commercial settings. Thefts occur overnight. As requested by the Police, if you see something, say something by dialing 911 or calling our communications center directly at 704-847-5555.