The Blowing Rock Planning and Zoning Board met on Tuesday, March 5, 2002. Chairperson Susie Greene called the meeting to order at 5:45 p.m. Members present were Jim West, Mary Greene, George Snyder, Paul Peterson and Cobb Milner. New members present were Bill Parker, Albert Yount, David Cox and Dennis Quinn. Staff present were Don Holycross, Town Manager, Kevin Rothrock, Planning Director, and Sonya Long, Administrative Assistant. Town Council members present were David Wray, Rita Wiseman, Keith Tester, and Terry Lentz.

Chairman Greene welcomed everyone and had everyone give introductions. She reviewed procedures, policies and how important attendance is to the members.

Mr. Holycross stated that even though the Planning Board is an advisory board, it is very important that the motion that goes forth to the Town Council as a recommendation of approval or denial. This is important so the public understands that the applicant may still go forward to the Town Council even if the Planning Board recommends denial.

Mr. Rothrock gave a Power Point presentation showing several different topics that pertained to the Planning Board’s meetings and responsibilities. He pointed out that they would also be discussing procedures and guidelines for the board to follow.

One topic discussed in great detail was Conflict of Interest. Mr. Rothrock pointed out that the members could not discuss a case that was before them if the member has a financial interest or if it involved the financial interest of a member’s household. Mr. West asked that a legal opinion be received from the town attorney regarding what constitutes a financial interest and several other questions that the board had. Mr. West also suggested that if a board member has any question of a financial interest, they should seek an opinion from the town attorney before the board meeting.

While discussing of a Quasi-judicial Hearing, Mr. Peterson suggested each board member review "Roberts Rules of Order" so that the board is conducting the meetings correctly.

The board also discussed the Comprehensive Plan. Chairman Greene pointed out that the board had been working on a new Comprehensive Plan over the past few months. She suggested that the new board members be given a copy of the old plan and the work done so far on the new plan.

Mr. Rothrock reviewed the different zoning districts in Blowing Rock. He briefly explained the setbacks, density and the uses that were allowed in those zoning districts.

Along with the items Chairman Greene requested be given to the new board members, Mr. Rothrock stated that they would also be receiving a zoning map, board member list and a zoning book published by the Institute of Government. Those materials would go out later in the week.

With no further business, the Board adjourned at 8:00 p.m.

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Chairman, Susie Greene Sonya Long, Administrative Assistant