WINDSOR
Town residents who randomly hold yard sales are on notice that a penalty now awaits if they’re caught without a permit. During a public hearing on Wednesday evening, Windsor Mayor Carita Richardson broke the council tie in favor of amending the town ordinance on yard sales.

“All the vote did was add a penalty to those who don’t get a permit,” Town Manager Michael Stallings said. “If they’re caught the first time, they get a written warning. The second time it’s a $50 fine.”

He did acknowledge that enforcement will be the most difficult part. Councilman N. Macon Edwards later recommended that an auxiliary officer be used for enforcement.

The matter had come up in last month’s meeting, as noted in the recorded minutes. Councilwoman Peggy Flemming reportedly said then that she’s against the penalty based on conversations with residents about yard sales. Further, she thinks that these events not only serve as community activities, but also get people to spend money in town.

Vice Mayor Wesley Garris explained then that the council’s not opposed to yard sales, but that all town residents should have the right permits for them. Councilman Greg Willis made the motion last month for a hearing to get public feedback. However, on Wednesday there were no residents to speak for or against the issue.

Voting for the amendment were J. Clinton Bryant, Willis and Garris. Voting no were Durwood Scott, Edwards and Flemming.

In other action:

n Council gave the OK to appropriate $17,910, which came from VML Insurance, to replace the digital sign in front of town hall. An auto accident had destroyed it last year. The money will be transferred from the Unappropriated Portion of the General Fund Balance to the General Fund Operating Budget. Also appropriated: $2,412 to repair a town police car that had been damaged in an accident. Fleming said the council should be proactive and return to VML the difference between what the agency sent and what the repairs cost.

n The Strategic Planning Retreat originally scheduled for Feb. 20-21 has been postponed. Councilman Edwards recommended this action in light of the Route 460 issue.

n Fleming said the Windsor holiday parade will take place on Saturday, Dec. 6, beginning at 4 p.m., with the lighting of the Christmas tree at the library. Breakfast with Santa take place earlier from 8 to 10 a.m. at the Windsor Ruritan Club building.

n Stallings was asked to do more research on the matter of establishing a flagpole in town.