Carroll County Economic Development Corp. Executive Director Daryl Smith spoke at the Feb. 10 meeting of the Burlington Town Council.

Burlington is represented on the EDC by Milt Rodgers, who is EDC president, and Jay Bordner and Ruth Johnson.

The EDC has organized four committees within the corporation. They are: entrepreneurship and business retention; agriculture and energy; options and goals; and budget and finance.

"We're working for this community and all the communities in Carroll County," Rodgers said.

Smith explained about tax increment financing (TIF) and how TIF districts are a tool to help get infrastructure for development.

"Business retention in this environment is crucial," commented council president Stan Moore. "Before we get new businesses, we have to make sure that the ones we have here, stay."

The Burlington Police Department, along with the county sheriff's department, will host a Neighborhood Watch Meeting on March 12 at 7 p.m. in the Community Park Building. The meeting is for Burlington residents and those who reside in the surrounding area.

"If the community is not behind this, then let us know that this is not something that you believe is needed," said Marshal Jill Hammond.

The marshal's report for January included 2 criminal reports, 26 calls for service, 2 accidents investigated, 3 assists, 1 handgun permit issued and 6 title checks.

"The community newsletter is coming along," said Al Jackson. "We're waiting on a couple of reports but hopefully by the end of the month it will be ready for distribution."

Jackson has organized a meeting of the county's township trustees. "We're still trying to get the ambulance situation worked out for us (the town)," he said.

It was reported that the jake brake signs are up and a new street light has been ordered.

The park board is working on new by-laws.

Moore said that the council will have a work session concerning snow removal, salting and sanding of streets. "We need to get it down how we want it done so there are no questions in the future," he said.

Some questions were raised about dogs running loose in town. Marshal Hammond said the town has an ordinance addressing the matter.

The next meeting will be March 10 at 7 p.m. in the town hall.