Also at Tuesday’s meeting, Spencer aldermen:
• Approved a $210,685 grant application to the N.C. Parks and Recreation Trust Fund to implement the first phase of the Spencer Woods Master Plan. The LandTrust of Central North Carolina has pledged to provide the required dollar-for-dollar match with private donations.
Spencer already has received a $200,000 state grant to buy the 42-acre forest from the LandTrust. The real estate deal should close this month, LandTrust Executive Director Jason Walser said.
Walser also pledged about $20,000 in start-up funds and support for a new nonprofit corporation that will manage Spencer Woods.
By Feb. 1, the LandTrust will have spent $14,000 on the grant application, immediate parking and trail improvements, he said.
Currently, a trail that starts on South Rowan Avenue is in place. Walser said the LandTrust is working on implementing a trail on North Rowan Avenue and will buy pipe and gravel for four parking spaces along Rowan Avenue, to be installed next month.
• Police Chief Michael James praised the Spencer Police Department, Fire Department and Rowan County EMS for responding to a death Tuesday in Spencer. A man apparently died in his home and was not discovered for several days. No foul play is suspected, James said.
• Public Works has extended leaf vacuuming through Friday.
• Spencer Historic Preservation Commission approved a fence at 505 Yadkin Ave., metal awnings at 125 and 127 Fifth St. and vinyl replacement windows at 413 S. Rowan Ave. The awnings must be approved by Spencer Planning Board, as well.
• Town Manager Larry Smith staff are gathering information on the Snyder Street water-sewer extension and will present it to aldermen soon.
• Resident Bob Oswald thanked aldermen for their service.