1. The Planning Commission has initiated a plan to place the location of all historic landmarks on its internet maps (G.I.S.). Toward this end staff is gathering Universal Transfer Mercator coordinates for all designated historic landmarks. Also, we have advised consultants to place UTM coordinates in all Survey and Research Reports.

2. Comprehensive Genealogical Services, Inc. is requesting that the Historic Landmarks Commission include money in its budget request to continue the inventory of slave burial grounds that that organization is conducting. Staff will be meeting on Thursday with the Commission’s Budget Analyst to complete the FY 2003 Budget Request.

3. Staff has made contacts with County staff about the prospect of participating in a future bond referendum, so that more money can be placed in its revolving fund. These discussions will continue.

4. The County will be upgrading the Commission’s computer system. This will cause some temporary interruptions but should result in a much more efficient operation.

5. The Palmer Fire School has been a major issue for staff during the past month. Bryan Turner and I have made Power Point presentations to the Park and Recreation Commission, the Joint Use Task Force of the City and the County, and the Elizabeth Neighborhood Association. All have endorsed the project. A presentation will be made on January 15^th to the Planning Committee of the Planning Commission as part of the Mandatory Referral process. Presentation to the Board of County Commissioners will occur in February.

6. The issue of the Charlotte Streetcar Barn has also been a major issue during the past month. A preservation strategy has been developed and will be discussed by the Commission later in the meeting.

7. Jonathan Wells of the Planning Commission has asked that staff make a presentation to the Joint Use Task Force on the results of the Post-World War Two Survey.

8. Staff did meet with the Huntersville Planning Director and several interested parties about the prospect of establishing a rural historic district in Huntersville. Talks are on-going.

9. The issue of Environmental Review for the South Corridor Light Rail Line did emerge during the past month. A meeting with consultants was scheduled but canceled by the consultant. Staff will keep you informed.

10. The Commission has several on-going projects. Bryan Turner can supply updates if you so desire. The Projects are: W. T. Alexander Plantation, McAuley and Oehler Houses, Rozzell House, Grier House, Grier-Rea House, Davis House, Croft Schoolhouse, Rural Hill Schoolhouse, and Palmer Fire School.

11. Paula Stathakis and Stewart Gray will be using the apartment at the W. T. Alexander Plantation as the office from which they will conduct the African American Survey.