Fines Upped for Sewage Spills; Herron Honored

Retiring Deputy Town Manager Wayne Herron, center, recognized for his service

By Dave Vieser — Cornelius commissioners this week unanimously approved a new local ordinance imposing a fine of up to $25,000 for illicit discharges into water or waterways in and around the town. The maximum fine under existing county regulations is $10,000, which means violators could face $35,000 in total fines from the town and county.

Commissioner Colin Furcht brought the matter to the board’s attention.

“There had been several incidents of spills around town in recent years and when I looked into it, I found that the county fine level seemed low,” Furcht said. “So I’m very pleased that my colleagues have seen fit to increase the fines.”

Violations could target multiple parties, such as a property owner, contractor or subcontractor. All fines collected go to Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools.

Athletic fields

In other business, the board adopted a new joint agreement between the town and Hough High School.

The agreement provides the town with access to indoor and outdoor athletic facilities and other approved spaces at the high school for public recreational, athletic and community activities when the facilities are not being used for school purposes. It marks the first time the town and Hough High School have adopted such an agreement.

Herron retiring

Finally, in a bittersweet moment, the board recognized the service of Wayne Herron, the retiring deputy town manager, who will leave at the end of the month.

Herron, who is well-liked and admired by his fellow employees, will conclude 38 years of work in the public sector. He was joined by his wife, Cindy, and daughter, Madeline, for the honor.