7.  The closing on the W. T. Alexander property  continues to be delayed.  The problem centers around the activities of Cambridge Properties.  Contrary to its commitments, Cambridge Properties did not notify the buyers (Davis Properties of Atlanta) of the adjacent tract that an  easement was to be granted to the HLC providing access to the new road that borders the property. Pat Nystrom has been trying to work matters out, so the HLC can close.  Davis Properties and Cambridge Properties are disagreeing about an issue that in no way involves the HLC.  That disagreement, however, is delaying the resolution of the issue.  Indeed, Cambridge Properties is now saying that it cannot provide the easement.  The Historic Landmarks Commission needs to advise me as to whether it still intends to close on the property.

8.  The Planning Committee of the Planning Commission voted unanimously on August 8th to comment affirmatively with respect to the HLC's projected involvement with the purchase and stabilization of a portion of the Charlotte Cotton Mills.  The Board of County Commissioners will consider the HLC's recommendation at its meeting on August 15th.

9.  The Crosland Co. is considering purchasing a tract of land on Old Rozzelle's Ferry Road in western Mecklenburg County.  The property contains a Rozzelle family house that dates from the 1880s.  In my judgment, it would be eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places.  I anticipate that the Crosland Co. will want to discuss the possibility of the Commission's purchasing the house and a couple of acres of land.  I will work with the Chairman of the Projects Committee as this matter unfolds.

10.  It is exciting to see site work beginning for the construction of the new Convention hotel across Stonewall St. from the Convention Center.  This means that the extension of the trolley line to Uptown Charlotte is finally underway.

11.  I received calls from several parties inquiring about the status of the Thomas Griffith Warehouse Building, more commonly known as the Brown-Rogers-Dixon Building on East Seventh St.  Levine Properties, the owner, has reportedly filed for a demolition permit.  The HLC did prepare a Survey and Research Report on the building in the late 1980s but terminated the designation process at the request of the owner.  The building now has no legal safeguards from a historic preservation perspective.

12.  The highway marker for the W. T. Alexander Slave Cemetery has been ordered and should be arriving in the near future.  Marilyn Croteau will be overseeing its installation.

13.  Lord Baltimore Properties has stated its wish to donate the Neely Slave Cemetery to the Historic Landmarks Commission.  By policy, the HLC does not accept donations of property that it cannot subsequently sell.  As directed by Jeff Bradsher, I have contacted Dr. Vernon Herron, Executive Director of Comprehensive Genealogical Services, about the possibility of his organization accepting the donation.

14.  The Board of County Commissioners will appoint a new Commissioner (Lindsay Daniel's replacement) on August 15th.

15.  Here is the approximate status of the HLC's Revolving Fund.  Existing Commitments:  W. T. Alexander Property ($1.1 million), Croft Schoolhouse ($500,000), Charlotte Cotton Mills ($4 million).  Total $5.6 million.  Amount available:  approximately $3.4 million.

16.  It is becoming increasingly obvious that the sale of the Croft Schoolhouse will not be easily accomplished.  I know that Percivals has been showing the property, but we are yet to receive any offers.  I would welcome any suggestions for how it might be more effectively marketed.  I have received a letter from Percivals with a brochure the company has produced concerning the property.