Cory Riner

Staff writer

ST. PAULS — The town Board of Commissioners on Thursday took action that forbids businesses in town from hosting yard sales and flea markets.

The commissioners approved an amendment to town ordinances that requires anyone who sets up a yard sale or flea market to register with the town. The amendment prevents businesses from hosting such sales, but does make some exceptions, including for events that raise money for nonprofits or schools.

“They don’t come in and register as a legitimate business, they’re flying a little bit under the radar,” Town Administrator Stuart Turille said. “If they want to do the flea market they need to come in and register as a legitimate business.”

The town will still allow people to have yard sales in their neighborhoods.

The board also approved an agreement with the town of Maxton that enables one town to use the other’s garbage truck in the event of a breakdown. Turille said the agreement allows a driver from either town to operate the truck. If one town uses another’s employee, that town will be compensated.

In other action Thursday, the board:

n Approved a $9,000 budget amendment to seal cracks in the town parking lots.

n Approved a resolution supporting a three-year Robeson County Solid Waste Management Plan.

n Approved a resolution recognizing Robeson County’s 225th anniversary.

n Approved the use of the courtroom for Lumbee tribal elections on Nov. 13.

n Discussed options for an abandoned residence at 236 W. Pittman St. that include condemnation, but took not action.

n Discussed economic development efforts and the need to put businesses in vacant textile mills.

n Rescheduled for the Oct. 11 meeting discussion concerning allowing restaurants in districts zoned neighborhood-business.