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November 17, 2003 Page 288 The Western Carolina Rail Corridor Committee has asked governing bodies across the State to adopt a Resolution in support of the North CaroIina Statewide Passenger Rail initiative for improved passenger rail service in North Carolina. The Committee will present the Resolutions to the General Assembly in efforts to obtain legislative and funding support for the creation of a comprehensive passenger rail system to serve the State of North Carolina. UPON MOTION of Commissioner Privette, seconded by Vice Chairman Suggs and unanimously carried, the Board adopted the following Resolution. Resolution No. 2003-32 RESOLUTIQN IN SUPPORT OF A STATEWIDE INITIATIVE FOR LEGISLATIVE AND FLFNDING SUPPORT FOR ENH3%NCED AND IMPROVED PASSENGER PJ~IL SERVICE FOR THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA WHEREAS, passenger rail service is an integral part of a comprehensive transportation system for the state of North Carolina; and WHEREAS, economic development, tourism and job creation will benefit through the enhancement of a passenger rail system that serves the citizens of North Carolina and visitors to our state; and, WHEREAS, we applaud the state of North Carolina for development of comprehensive intercity rail services in urban jurisdictions throughout the state; and, WHEREAS, there is a vital need to provide a balanced transportation system both statewide and nationwide as demonstrated in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 tragedies; and, WHEREAS, an increase in state funding for passenger rail service in North Carolina is necessary to support development of intercity rail services that can connect our small urban and rural areas of the state with the urbanized centers of our state; and, WHEREAS, support by local and state elected officials is essential for the future of alternative transportation in North Carolina; and, WHEREAS, support and utilization of transportation improvements by business and commercial interests is essential for the successful deplo~anent of alternative transportation modes in North Carolina; and WHEREAS, this resolution is a vehicle to express the unified support of communities and chambers of commerce throughout North Carolina for increased statewide funding for passenger rail service; and, WHEREAS, rail linkages between communities and regions within North Carolina establish and strengthen social, historical, commercial and cultural bonds; and, WHEREAS, the average return on investment for the surrounding community for station revitalizations throughout North Carolina is more than one dollar for every dollar invested; and, WHEREAS, the associated improvements to rail facilities will increase the efficiency and safety of rail service, help attract new freight traffic and provide environmental benefits by reducing the impact of truck traffic on North Carolina's highways and by reducing harmful emissions; and, WHEREAS, an integrated passenger rail system will enhance accessibility and reliability for key military locations and ports. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Cabarrus County Board of Commissioners, through the adoption of this resolution, fully supports the creation of a comprehensive passenger rail system to serve the state of North Carolina, with its ultimate objective to further economic opportunity, help preserve the environment, improve the quality of life and enhance public health, safety and welfare for all citizens, communities and regions. Adopted this 17tn day of November, 2003 /s/ Robert M. Freeman Robert M. Freeman ATTEST: Chairman, Board of Commissioners /s/ Frankie F. Bonds Frankie F. Bonds, Clerk to the Board (F-13) Local Telephone Service Contract with CT Communications A three-year contract for local telephone service is proposed with CT Communications. This contract provides substantial discounts in service costs