The Red Cross Town Council signed a contract Monday evening ordering a full review and update of its subdivision ordinance.

Councilwoman Trina Plowman presented the council with a contract from Michael Sandy of Uwharrie Planners to review the town’s ordinance.

According to Plowman, the planning and zoning board asked the council to review the town’s subdivision ordinance to ensure that it is current.

“The state laws have changed so much,” Mayor Larry Smith said, adding that the town needs to know that it is still in compliance.

The contract will include “a complete review of the (North Carolina General Statute) changes to date of start of the contract to include bonding, subdivision exemptions, estates, expedite review, performance guarantees, and other minor changes recommended by (the) consultant,” the contract says.

The fee will also include up to two planning board meetings as well as the council meeting where the updated ordinance would be adopted.

Sandy is the sole proprietor of Uwharrie Planners and has done other “update reviews” for the town, according to Town Administrator Aloma Whitley.

It may take about $4,000 to complete the tasks, according to the contract estimate.

The council unanimously agreed to update the ordinance.

Smith also led the council in a brief conversation regarding whether the town should spend $255.20 in dues for the Chamber of Commerce.

“I think you have to belong to it,” Councilman Jerry Jordan said. “You don’t have to, but it’s an important thing.”

The council unanimously agreed to pay for the membership.

No one spoke during the time for public or council comments.

The next regular town council meeting will be at 7 p.m. Sept. 10.

Imari Scarbrough is a freelance contributor for The Stanly News and Press.