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1997-08-18 Regular Meeting NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, AUGUST 18, 1997 BOOK 26 PAGE 58 ASSEMBLY The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners met in Regular Session on Monday, August 18, 1997, at 9: 00 AM. in the Assembly Room of the New Hanover County Courthouse, 24 North Third Street, Wilmington, North Carolina. Members present were: Commissioners Buzz Birzenieks; Ted Davis, Jr.; Charles R. Howell; Vice-Chairman William A Caster; Chairman Robert G. Greer; County Manager, Allen O'Neal; County Attorney, Wanda M. Copley; and Clerk to the Board, Lucie F. Harrell. Chairman Greer called the meeting to order and welcomed everyone present. INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Deputy County Manager, Andrew 1. Atkinson, gave the invocation. Vice-Chairman Caster led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag. NON-AGENDA ITEMS Chairman Greer announced that time had been reserved to allow anyone from the public to present an item that was not listed on the Regular Agenda or comment on an item listed on the Consent Agenda. He requested all persons speaking to limit their remarks to three minutes. The following item was presented: Discussion of Gang Activities in New Hanover County Ms. MaDonna Cipolla, the mother of a 16-year-old daughter who is a member of a gang, commented on the need for the N. C. General Assembly to change the law regarding the age of an adult. Under the present State law, a parent cannot legally keep a child at home after he or she becomes 16 years of age. Very few children at this age are mature enough to take care of themselves on the streets. One age should be specified instead of an age for a juvenile and another age for an adult, which is confusing to parents and law enforcement officials. Ms. Cipolla stated her daughter was not a troubled child; however, she became involved with a gang while attending middle school. The Board was requested to consider the following recommendations to keep other children from becoming involved with gangs: (1) request the North Carolina General Assembly to change the State Law regarding the age of an adult; (2) provide funding to begin educational programs on the danger of gang involvement in the third grade; and (3) request the Sheriff's Department and City of Wilmington Police Department to establish a task force to better control the activities of gangs, which are increasing in the beach communities, the City of Wilmington, and New Hanover County. Chairman Greer requested the Deputy County Manager to comment on this issue. Deputy County Manager Atkinson reported that Judge Blackmore and Lt. Benson with the Sheriff s Department were visiting the high schools and presenting programs on gang violence. Approximately a year ago, a gang expert was brought into the County with presentations made at two of the middle schools. The events were well attended with a great deal of interest shown by the community. Also, there is a citizens group, the New Hanover County Crime Commission, that was formed several years ago to develop programs to reduce crime. He requested Ms. Cipolla to give him her address so she could be invited to attend meetings of the Crime Commission. Commissioner Birzenieks spoke on a previous discussion held by the Board on the need to hold a Crime Forum in the fall. He requested the Board to move forward with scheduling this event. County Manager O'Neal responded staff was in the process of working with UNCW to hold a Crime Forum. Once a final plan is developed, the Board will be informed. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, AUGUST 18, 1997 BOOK 26 PAGE 59 Chairman Greer expressed appreciation to Ms. Cipolla for bringing this issue to the attention of the Board. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA Vice-Chairman Caster requested removal of Consent Agenda Item 4 for further discussion. Motion: Commissioner Birzenieks MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Caster to remove Item 4 and approve the remaining items on the Consent Agenda. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. CONSENT AGENDA Approval of Minutes The Commissioners approved the minutes of the Regular Meeting of August 4, 1997, as presented by the Clerk to the Board. Approval of Research Agreement (Contract #98-0093) with the University of North Carolina at Wilmington The Commissioners approved a Research Agreement with the University of North Carolina at Wilmington for continuing the Tidal Creek Water Quality Studies. The terms of the agreement are from August 1, 1997 through July 31, 1998. The total cost to New Hanover County, including indirect costs, shall not exceed $20,000. The County Manager was authorized to execute the contract documents. A copy of the contract is on file in the Legal Department. Acceptance of Tax Collection Reports Through July 31, 1997 The Commissioners accepted the following Tax Collection Reports through July 31, 1997, as submitted by the Collector of Revenue, Patricia 1. Raynor: New Hanover County Tax Collections New Hanover County Fire District Tax Collections Copies of the reports are hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and are contained in Exhibit Book XXIV, Page 4. Adoption of Resolution to Add Roads in Woods Edge Subdivision The Commissioners adopted a resolution to add roads in Woods Edge Subdivision to the State Highway System. A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXIV, Page 4. Approval of Budget Amendment #98-0020 - Planning/MIS The Commissioners approved the following budget amendment: 98-0020 Planning/MIS Debit Credit Planning Salaries FICA Retirement Medical Insurance Lt. Liability Contracted Services MIS Salaries FICA $46,066 3,677 766 4,914 110 85,000 $46,066 3,677 NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, AUGUST 18, 1997 BOOK 26 PAGE 60 (Budget Amendment #98-0020 continued) Debit Credit $ 766 4,914 110 85,000 Retirement Medical Insurance Lt. Liability Insurance Contracted Services Purpose: To transfer funds from Planning to MIS for the GIS System. The GIS Coordinator and GIS Analyst will also be transferred to MIS to better coordinate the technology-based functions of the County. Approval of Budget Amendment #98-0016 to Budget Appropriated Fund Balance The Commissioners approved the following budget amendment: 98-0016 - Various Debit Credit Commissioners' Office Appropriated Fund Balance $660,165 County Manager Capital Outlay $ 8,000 MIS Contracted Services 26,000 Property Management Other Improvements 13,000 Emergency Management Contracted Services 2,000 Emergency Management Hurricane Preparedness Contracted Services 100,000 EMS Capital Outlay Motor Vehicle Purchases 62,000 32,000 Inspections Capital Outlay 60,800 Outside Agencies/Economic & Physical City of Wilmington 10,925 Health! Administration Contracted Services 6,000 Health! Animal Control Other Improvements 55,000 Social Services/Administration Other Improvements 100,000 Education Land Cost Parks Other Improvements Contributions/Outside Agencies 65,000 84,000 10,000 NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, AUGUST 18, 1997 BOOK 26 PAGE 61 (Budget Amendment #98-0016 continued) Debit Credit Museum Other Improvements $ 2,562 Planning Contracted Services 22,878 Fire Departments Appropriated Fund Balance $297,819 Ogden Volunteer Fire Department $77,500 Fire Operations Other Improvements Capital Outlay Contracted Services Departmental Supplies Initial Supplies Fire Fighting Supplies Uniforms Safety Equipment Maintenance & Repair - Autos Fire Services Administration Capital Outlay 71,900 86,000 3,425 3,198 3,156 9,746 5,463 30,379 2,052 5,000 Purpose: To rollover the following expenditures from FY 1996-97 to FY 1997-98: General Fund County Manager's Office: PIO Position - Capital Outlay MIS: New electronic mail system for the County Property Management: Carpeting for the Commissioners' Assembly Room Emergency Management: Plan for Citizens with Special Needs During Emergencies EMS: One vehicle and an automated patient tracking system Inspections: Automation process Outside Agencies/Economic & Physical, City: Unified Work Plan for Transportation Health Administration: Wiring building for computer automation Health/Animal Control: Replace facility's floor Department of Social Services: Repair facility's sub-flooring and replace carpet Education: Road access improvements from Carolina Beach Rd. To SchoollPark Property Parks: Phase II of basketball courts at Castle Hayne and Myrtle Grove Parks Museum: Brick work related to paving project Planning: Remaining balance of Unified Development contract and Interlocal Estuarine Creek Study Fire Service District Fire Departments: Ogden Substation costs Fire Operations: Startup costs for 421 North Fire Station Fire Administration: Office furniture and panels Approval of Budget Amendment #98-0017 - Various The Commissioners approve the following Budget Amendment: 98-0017 Various NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, AUGUST 18, 1997 Debit Commissioners' Office Appropriated Fund Balance $657,583 (Budget Amendment #98-0017 continued) Debit Finance Departmental Supplies MIS Contracted Services Departmental Supplies Capital Outlay Tax Contracted Services Legal Departmental Supplies Property Management Contracted Services Other Improvements Motor Vehicle Purchases Engineering Contracted Services Sheriff/Administration Capital Outlay Sheriff/911 Departmental Supplies Capital Outlay Emergency Management/Hurricane Preparedness Contracted Services M & R - Buildings & Grounds M & R - Equipment Emergency Management Capital Outlay Courts Capital Outlay Inspections Contracted Services Capital Outlay Planning Printing Capital Outlay Motor Vehicle Purchases Health!Vector Control Departmental Supplies Health! Animal Control Departmental Supplies Credit Credit $ 1,229 6,293 5,058 27,139 1,579 1,476 34,152 69,313 17,755 63,367 6,189 1,429 53,538 700 1,500 14,851 1,990 4,895 16,550 171,477 4,950 2,480 15,662 876 876 BOOK 26 PAGE 62 NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, AUGUST 18, 1997 (Budget Amendment #98-0017 continued) Health/Laboratory Departmental Supplies Debit Health! Administration Contracted Services Departmental Supplies Capital Outlay HealthlNutrition Departmental Supplies Health!TB Contracted Services Departmental Supplies HealthlPersonal Departmental Supplies HealthlMaternal Health Departmental Supplies Health/Family Planning Contracted Services Health!Child Health Departmental Supplies HealthIProject Assist Departmental Supplies D S S/ Administration Departmental Supplies Capital Outlay Aging/Senior Center M & R Equipment Departmental Supplies Other Improvements Capital Outlay Library Departmental Supplies Capital Outlay Parks M & R Buildings & Grounds Other Improvements Museum Printing Departmental Supplies Other Improvements Capital Outlay Fire Departments Appropriated Fund Balance $399,326 Motor Vehicle Purchases BOOK 26 PAGE 63 Credit $ 438 $ 5,800 2,754 3,244 219 1,350 438 438 438 1,548 219 219 1,095 36,703 275 45 10,504 2,022 795 41,081 1,323 1,400 11,815 1,045 3,250 3,801 $358,526 NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, AUGUST 18, 1997 BOOK 26 PAGE 64 (Budget Amendment #98-0017 continued) Debit Credit Fire Services/Administration Departmental Supplies Capital Outlay $ 3,413 2,536 Fire Operations Departmental Supplies Capital Outlay 572 34,279 Environmental Management Appropriated Fund Balance $407,145 WAS TEC/ Administration Other Improvements Capital Outlay 6,377 340,155 W ASTEC/Maintenance Contracted Services M & R Buildings & Grounds M & R Equipment M & R Autos & Trucks 1,520 8,355 12,270 3,800 Recycling Advertising Contracted Services M & R Buildings & Grounds 1,803 28,900 3,965 Purpose: To budget appropriated fund balance for outstanding purchase orders as ofJune 30, 1997. The amounts should be added to each appropriation as it appears in the Budget Ordinance in order to account for the payment against the fiscal year in which it is paid. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEM 4, AWARD OF CONTRACT TO THE COMMUNITY BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB OF WILMINGTON TO OPERATE THE COMMUNITY ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION CENTER Vice-Chairman Caster commented on receiving a grant in the amount of$288,000 from the Governor's Crime Commission and requested an explanation of how the program was going to be evaluated to determine if the funds were being expended in an efficient manner. Deputy County Manager Atkinson responded it would be difficult to evaluate the program until it was implemented for a period of time. The evaluation process will begin when figures are available showing the number of young people who have completed the program and returned to regular schools. Vice-Chairman Caster reported on attending a work session at the N. C. Association of County Commissioners regarding the importance of evaluating programs to be sure funds are being used in an effective manner. He expressed concern for not having some form of an evaluation system built into the program that will require a report to the Governor and Board of County Commissioners about the success or failure of the Community Alternative Education Center. Deputy County Manager Atkinson advised he was sure the program would have to be evaluated at a certain point; however, the purpose of the program is to reduce school dropout and delinquency rates for juveniles. Once a young person returns to the regular school system, the evaluation will be based on whether this person remains in regular school and does not drop out at a later date or become involved with crime. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, AUGUST 18, 1997 BOOK 26 PAGE 65 Chairman Greer commented on these students not having a desire to attend school and asked why it was felt they would attend the Community Alternative Education Center? Deputy County Manager Atkinson advised the program will be based on a partnership among the parents, the student, and the Community Alternative Education Center. A contract will be prepared outlining the responsibilities of each party. As the student moves through the program, the requirements of the contract must be fulfilled if the student is to remain in the Center. The program is targeted at two groups: (1) children that have been suspended from school by a Judge for a period of time; and (2) children on probation. The student and parents must have the desire to make the necessary changes in their lives to allow the child and family to operate in a normal manner. Motion: After discussion of the need to reduce the school dropout rate, Commissioner Birzenieks MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Davis to award the contract to the Community Boys and Girls Club of Wilmington to operate the Community Alternative Education Center. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. A copy of the contract is on file in the Legal Department. PRESENTATION OF CERTIFICATE OF ACHIEVEMENT FOR EXCELLENCE IN FINANCIAL REPORTING TO THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY FINANCE DEPARTMENT Chairman Greer proudly announced that the New Hanover County Finance Department had received a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for 16 consecutive years. He requested the Finance Director, Bruce Shell, to step forward to receive the award. Chairman Greer, on behalf of the Board, presented the Certificate of Achievement to Director Shell and congratulated the Finance Department for this special recognition for 16 years. County Manager O'Neal commented on the outstanding achievement of the Finance Department and stated New Hanover County was among a small group of counties throughout the nation that consistently receives this award. ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION TO HOLD PUBLIC HEARINGS ON SEPTEMBER 2, 1997, TO CONSIDER BOND ORDERS AUTHORIZING ISSUANCE OF $125,000,000 SCHOOL BONDS AND $38,300,000 COMMUNITY COLLEGE BONDS OF THE COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER Chairman Greer introduced and read the following bond orders: "BOND ORDER AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $125,000,000 SCHOOL BONDS OF THE COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER" WHEREAS, the Board of Commissioners ofthe County of New Hanover deems it advisable to make the improvements hereinafter described; and WHEREAS, the Board has caused to be filed with the Secretary of the Local Government Commission of North Carolina an application for Commission approval of the bonds hereinafter described as required by The Local Government Finance Act, and the Secretary of the Commission has notified the Board that the application has been filed and accepted for submission to the Commission; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDERED by the Board as follows: Section 1. The Board determines that it is necessary to provide school facilities, including the acquisition and construction of new school facilities, the improvement and expansion of existing school facilities, and the acquisition and installation offurnishings and equipment, and the acquisition of interest in real property required therefor, and to pay capital costs of such improvements. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, AUGUST 18, 1997 BOOK 26 PAGE 66 Section 2. To raise the money required to pay capital costs of providing the improvements described above, in addition to any funds which may be made available for the purpose from any other sources, bonds of the County as hereby authorized and shall be issued pursuant to The Local Government Finance Act. The maximum aggregate principal amount of the bonds authorized by this bond order shall be $125,000,000. Section 3. Taxes sufficient to pay the principal of and interest on those bonds when due shall be annually levied and collected. Section 4. A sworn statement of the County's debt has been filed with the Clerk to the Board and is open to public inspection. Section 5. This bond order shall take effect when approved by the voters of the County on November 4, 1997. "BOND ORDER AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $38,300,000 COMMUNITY COLLEGE BONDS OF THE COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER" WHEREAS, The Board of Commissioners of the County of New Hanover deems it advisable to make the improvements hereinafter described; and WHEREAS, the Board has caused to be filed with the Secretary of the Local Government Commission of North Carolina an application for Commission approval of the bonds hereinafter described as required by The Local Government Finance Act, and the Secretary of the Commission has notified the Board that the application has been filed and accepted for submission to the Commission; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDERED by the Board as follows: Section 1. The Board determines that is it necessary to provide community college facilities, including the acquisition and construction of new community college facilities, the improvement and expansion of existing community college facilities, and the acquisition and installation of furnishings and equipment, and the acquisition of interests in real property required therefor, and to pay capital costs of such improvements. Section 2. To raise the money required to pay capital costs of providing the improvements described above, in addition to any funds which may be made available for the purpose from any other sources, bonds of the County are hereby authorized and shall be issued pursuant to The Local Government Finance Act. The maximum aggregate principal amount of bonds authorized by this bond order shall be $38,300,000. Section 3. Taxes sufficient to pay the principal of and interest on those bonds when due shall be annually levied and collected. Section 4. A sworn statement of the County's debt has been filed with the Clerk to the Board and is open to public inspection. Section 5. This bond order shall take effect when approved by the voters of the County on November 4, 1997. Chairman Greer requested a motion to adopt the resolution. Motion: Commissioner Birzenieks MOVED to adopt the following resolution: WHEREAS, the bond orders entitled, "BOND ORDER AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $125,000,000 SCHOOL BONDS OF THE COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER" and "BOND ORDER AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $38,300,000 COMMUNITY COLLEGE BONDS OF THE COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER" have been introduced at the meeting of the Board of Commissioners of the County of New Hanover held on August 18, 1997, NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, AUGUST 18, 1997 BOOK 26 PAGE 67 and the Board desires to provide for public hearings thereon and the submission of a statement of debt in connection therewith as required by The Local Government Finance Act; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board as follows: A The public hearings on the bond orders shall be held on September 2, 1997, at 6:30 P.M. in the Assembly Room, New Hanover County Courthouse, 24 North Third Street, Wilmington, North Carolina. B. The Clerk to the Board is hereby directed to cause a copy of each bond order to be published with a notice of each hearing in the form prescribed by law in a qualified newspaper no fewer than six days prior to each public hearing. C. The Finance Officer is hereby directed to file with the Clerk to the Board prior to publication of the bond orders with the notices of such public hearings, a statement setting forth the debt incurred or to be incurred, the appraised value of property subject to taxation by the County and the net debt of the County. THE MOTION WAS SECONDED by Commissioner Davis and was UNANIMOUSLY ADOPTED. Copies of the Bond Orders are hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and are contained in Exhibit Book XXIV, Page 4. ACCEPTANCE OF THE SETTLEMENT OF TAX COLLECTIONS AND CHARGES OF THE 1996 TAX LEVY Chairman Greer commented on the outstanding efforts of the Collector of Revenue, Patricia 1. Raynor, and requested the Board to accept the Settlement of Tax Collections and Charges of the 1996 Levy and reappoint Ms. Raynor as Collector of Revenue and charge her with Collection of the 1997 levy. Chairman Greer, on behalf of the Board, expressed appreciation to Ms. Raynor and her staff for the excellent job performed in the collection of taxes for New Hanover County. He requested a motion to accept the Settlement of Tax Collections as presented. Motion: Commissioner Howell MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Caster to accept the Settlement of Tax Collections for 1996 as presented by the Collector of Revenue pursuant to NCGS 1 05-347. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Motion: Commissioner Howell MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Caster to reappoint Mrs. Patricia 1. Raynor as Collector of Revenue for 1997-98 and charge her with Collection of the 1997 levy pursuant to NCGS 1 05-349. The Chairman was authorized to execute the Charge Sheet. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSL Y. Copies of the 1996 Settlement of Tax Collections for New Hanover County and the New Hanover County Fire District are hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and are contained in Exhibit Book XXIV, Page 4. RENEWAL OF CONTRACT #95-0303A WITH CAPE FEAR CONSERVATION AND DEVELOPMENT, INC. FOR THE PROVISION OF CLERICAL ASSISTANCE TO THE KEEP AMERICA BEAUTIFUL OFFICE Chairman Greer advised this item was removed from the Consent Agenda on August 4, 1997, because he had questioned the amount of funding the County would contribute to the temporary clerical position in the Keep America Beautiful office. He stated he was satisfied with the information presented in the agenda, and he requested a motion to renew the contract as presented. Motion: Commissioner Birzenieks MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Caster to renew the annual contract with Cape Fear Resources Conservation and Development, Inc. in the amount of NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, AUGUST 18, 1997 BOOK 26 PAGE 68 $8,718 to provide clerical assistance to the Keep America Beautiful Office. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. A copy of the contract is on file in the Legal Department. AWARD OF CONTRACT #98-0096 TO MWM SOUTH, INC. FOR THE LINING OF THE LANDFILL LEACHATE LAGOON Director of Environmental Management, Ray Church, reported the landfill lagoon was a two- acre, 4 million gallon facility which receives leachate pumped from the landfill cells. The lagoon was constructed in 1981 and was lined with a hypalon liner. The liner, while not showing evidence of leaking, has reached its 20-year warranty limit. Since the landfill lagoon has not been dry since 1984, staff recommends replacement of the liner as a precautionary measure. The following bids have been received: Mid America Lining Company MWM South, Inc. Ground Safe, Inc. $33,800 $47,745 $58,706 After a thorough review of the bids, staff recommends award of the bid to MWM South, Inc. in the amount of$47, 745. The low bid did not include equipment to deploy the liner and equipment to dig and fill the anchor trench; therefore, it was not considered to be a complete bid package. Director Church requested the Board to award the bid to MWM South, and approve the associated Budget Amendment #98-0019 which includes $25,000 for removing the sand sludge from the lagoon. Commissioner Davis asked if this project was needed at this time? Director Church stated this was the first time the lagoon has been dry since 1984, which provides an opportune time to replace the liner as a precautionary measure. Motion: Commissioner Howell MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Caster to award the contract to MWM South, Inc. in the amount of$47, 745 for replacing the lagoon liner at the Landfill and approve the associated budget amendment. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. A copy of the contract is on file in the Legal Department. Environmental Management/Landfill Debit Credit Environmental Management/Landfill Appropriated Fund Balance $72,745 Contracted Services $72,745 Purpose: To appropriate the Landfill Fund Balance for cleaning and relining the leachate lagoon. County Manager O'Neal reported that Mr. Dennis Burks would be leaving New Hanover County to return to Little Rock, Arkansas, on August 29, 1997. He advised that Mr. Burks had performed outstanding work and would be missed by the Environmental Management Department. Chairman Greer, on behalf of the Board, expressed appreciation to Mr. Burks for his service to New Hanover County and wished him well with his future plans. Mr. Burks stated it has been a pleasure to work for New Hanover County. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, AUGUST 18, 1997 BOOK 26 PAGE 69 BREAK Chairman Greer called a break from 10:00 AM. until 10:15 AM. DISCUSSION ON AN ECONOMIC AND SERVICES ANALYSIS FOR NEW HANOVER COUNTY GOVERNMENT Vice-Chairman Caster spoke on the need to identify the direction of the County and he recommended performance of an assessment of County government functions to see if the County was providing the necessary services in an efficient and effective manner. The trend in large corporations has been to perform assessments to review current services and cut costs in order to remain efficient and competitive. Other counties have performed assessments with privatization of various services. The County must prioritize its needs in order to address education, drainage, parks, library services, museum services, and the impact of welfare reform. The local economy is excellent with increasing values on property; however, the economy could slow down and the County must be prepared to continue the provision of services without continued growth in revenues. The effect of growth should be studied to prepare for the future, and a more cooperative relationship must be developed with the Board of Education, Hospital Board of Trustees, the City of Wilmington, beach communities, and neighboring counties to meet regional needs. In closing, Vice-Chairman Caster expressed concern for the lack of time spent on the budget and stated the Board must assess the current services being provided by New Hanover County in order to prioritize the needs and provide efficient services to the taxpayers. Discussion was held on the best approach to use in performing an assessment of County government. Commissioner Birzenieks presented the following approaches: 1. Hire a consulting firm to perform an assessment based upon the following components: (1) a complete review of operations, such as the W ASTEC Facility or the Water and Service System, with development ofa plan to make changes ifneeded; (2) study all services provided to see if they are operating effectively and efficiently; (3) review privatization of services to see if money can be saved; (4) review the entire structure of County government; and (5) review funding for outside agencies to see if overlapping is occurring among the agencies. This approach would be costly. 2. Allow the County staff and County Commissioners to perform an internal assessment. 3. Establish a Task Force of highly qualified citizens to perform an assessment of County government. Commissioner Birzenieks spoke in opposition to hiring a consultant because of the cost and stated he felt appointment of a Task Force comprised of qualified citizens would be the best approach. County Manager O'Neal advised the best approach to use in performing the assessment was to involve the citizens because County government must meet the needs of the citizens and reflect the attitudes and expectations of the community. In his opinion, the County is performing a good job in the provision of services; however, an assessment of the services is an excellent idea. One item to consider is that performance of an assessment on a broad basis would be more difficult than on a departmental scale. Also, with the current planning projects, particularly the CAMA Land Use Plan Update and Cape Fear River Corridor Study, it might be wise to wait until these studies have been completed before beginning another project. Vice-Chairman Caster commented on the needs for education, drainage, and parks and stated a tremendous amount of money will be needed to address these issues. Concern was expressed for continually increasing the tax rate which places the burden on the taxpayers. A lengthy discussion was held on the need to perform an assessment of County government. Commissioner Birzenieks stated the major issue was to review the organization of County government to determine if the system is efficient and effective. The next step is to NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, AUGUST 18, 1997 BOOK 26 PAGE 70 review services and the various agencies carrying out those services as well as the expectations of the citizens. He stated this will be a complex process and recommended requesting the County Manager and staff to prepare a recommendation to perform the assessment after the planning studies have been completed. County Manager 0 'Neal reported that New Hanover County was organized under State Law for the provision of services, particularly in the areas of human services and tax assessments and collections. The County is effectively and efficiently organized pursuant to the State Law; however, government will never be totally efficient because of state and federal regulations. Also, welfare reform will be determined by the General Assembly. Commissioner Birzenieks stated the Commissioners desire to review County government is to see if better ways can be found to perform the services and functions provided by New Hanover County. Vice-Chairman Caster agreed with Commissioner Birzenieks and stated that Wake County had consolidated its human services, which was an approach that should be considered by New Hanover County. Consensus: After further discussion, it was the consensus of the Board to wait until the growth and planning projects are completed before appointing a Task Force to perform an assessment of County government. DISCUSSION OF PURCHASING PROPERTY LOCATED AT 13 SOUTH 8TH STREET TO BE USED BY THE CAPE FEAR MUSEUM Mr. John Sifers, Vice-Chairman of the Museum Board of Trustees, requested the Board to consider acquiring a lot located at 13 South Eighth Street for future expansion of the Cape Fear Museum. Currently, there are 13 parcels of property located in the block on the south side of the Museum. The County owns five of these lots and has an opportunity to purchase the sixth lot. The space in the Museum is becoming crowded and there is no outside space for activities associated with Summer Camps. Also, the Museum Board feels that a Children's Museum should be built to provide programs and activities to children between ages two and six. After a review of the land to the east and across the street, it was concluded the Museum should consider purchasing land contiguous to the block where the Museum is sited, which is bordered by Market, Dock, Eighth and Ninth Streets. The lot on Eighth Street is appraised at a fair price and will continue to increase in value. The Museum Board feels the lot should be acquired and placed in the land bank for future expansion of the Museum. Chairman Greer asked Mr. Carver if he had owned the property for a long period of time? Mr. Charles Carver, the property owner, explained the property was never placed on the market. He was approached by Ms. Janet Seapker about possible acquisition of the vacant lot owned by the County next to the 13 South Eighth Street lot. Chairman Greer asked Mr. Carver ifhe would be willing to pay $82,000 for the adjacent lot owned by New Hanover County? Mr. Carver responded that he would purchase the vacant lot for that price. Commissioner Birzenieks asked if the Museum had a master space and site plan? He also asked if the Museum Board of Trustees had worked with an independent qualified real estate appraiser? Museum Director, Janet Seapker, responded the Museum Board of Trustees would be developing a site plan as part of the long-range plan for expansion of the Museum. The appraisal value of the lot was determined by the New Hanover County Tax Department. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, AUGUST 18, 1997 BOOK 26 PAGE 71 Commissioner Davis advised that acquiring eight parcels of land for the Children's Museum would cost approximately $1,770,000. He asked if the Junior League or Wilmington Children's Museum Board had committed to funding for this facility? Museum Director Seapker responded that no funding commitments had been received because the project was in the planning stage. Once the Children's Museum is opened in the former sales room of the Rippy car dealership, the community will become more interested in donating funds to the project. The Junior League has committed to provide funding to operate the Children's Museum for a period of two years with assistance from volunteers. Commissioner Davis asked if the County was renting the former Rippy building for the Children's Museum? Museum Director Seapker responded the Children's Museum was being completely funded by the Junior League and Children's Museum organization. Commissioner Howell expressed concern for not knowing if the public was supportive of expanding the Museum. He also questioned whether this would be a good investment, particularly if the Museum decided not to use the lot at a future date. Museum Director Seapker explained that New Hanover County acquired the current Museum site approximately 10 years before the building was actually constructed and opened. With this type oflong-range planning, the County was able to save a great deal of money. The Museum Board feels that acquiring available properties in the block at this time will save money for the County when the Museum has to be expanded. A lengthy discussion followed on the value of the property and cost for removing the house on the lot. Chairman Greer advised the lot was valued at $6,102 with the most expensive lot in the block being valued at $9,342. He asked Mr. Carver ifhe would be interested in selling just the lot? Mr. Carver responded that comparables sales in the area indicate that the lot and house are worth $82,000. Chairman Greer called for a MOTION on the request for the County to enter into a Buy and Sell Agreement to purchase the lot located at 13 South Eighth Street. NO MOTION WAS PLACED ON THE FLOOR. No action was taken. MEETING CONVENED FROM REGULAR SESSION TO HOLD A REGULAR MEETING OF THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY WATER AND SEWER DISTRICT Chairman Greer convened from Regular Session to hold a meeting of the New Hanover County Water and Sewer District from 11 :04 AM. until 11 :31 AM. COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS Appointments to the New Hanover County Library Advisory Board Chairman Greer announced that two vacancies needed to be filled on the New Hanover County Library Advisory Board. He reported that three applications had been received and that one applicant, Frank S. Conlon, desired to be reappointed. Motion: Vice-Chairman Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Howell to reappoint Frank S. Conlon to serve a three-year term on the Library Advisory Board. The term is to expire August 31, 2000. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Chairman Greer opened the floor to receive nominations to fill the remaining vacancy. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, AUGUST 18, 1997 BOOK 26 PAGE 72 Commissioner Howell nominated Cathy Lewis Stanley. Commissioner Birzenieks seconded the nomination. There being no further nominations, Chairman Greer declared the nominations closed. Vote: The Board voted UNANIMOUSLY to appoint Cathy Lewis Stanley to serve a three-year term on the Library Advisory Board. The term is to expire August 31,2000. APPOINTMENTS TO THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF MECHANICAL EXAMINERS Chairman Greer announced that four vacancies needed to be filled on the Board of Mechanical Examiners. He reported the following applications had been received to fill the various categories: Mechanical Contractors Larry W. Lisk, eligible to be reappointed David Pope, eligible to be reappointed Mechanical Journeyman - Class II Carl Ricky Glover N. C. Registered Mechanical Engineer David Sims, eligible to be reappointed Motion: Commissioner Howell MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Birzenieks to reappoint Larry W. Lisk and David Pope to serve on the Board of Mechanical Examiners for two-year terms under the Mechanical Contractors category and reappoint David Sims to serve on the Board of Mechanical Examiners for a two-year term under the N. C. Registered Mechanical Engineer category. The terms are to expire August 31, 1999. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Motion: Commissioner Howell MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Caster to appoint Carl Ricky Glover to serve a two-year term on the Mechanical Journeyman, Class II category. The term is to expire August 31, 1999. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. ADDITIONAL ITEMS Status Report on EMS Transfer to New Hanover Regional Medical Center County Manager O'Neal reported on meeting with hospital officials to discuss transferring EMS to the New Hanover Regional Medical Center. The Board of Trustees would like to conduct an assessment and audit of EMS financial operations. The hospital officials would identify consulting firms to assist with the review, and a steering committee would be appointed comprised of hospital representatives, Ann Patterson and Barbara Bissette and County representatives, Andrew 1. Atkinson and Larry Ray. If the Board desires, a County Commissioner could be appointed to the steering committee as well as a Hospital Trustee. Also, Bruce Shell or Julie Griffin would serve as the financial official for the County. County Manager O'Neal advised the steering committee would review the findings of the consultant and prepare a joint recommendation. The time frame is important because the County will begin the budget process within the next few months. Commissioner Birzenieks inquired as to why a consultant was needed and asked who would pay for the consultant? Deputy County Manager Atkinson explained the Medical Center Board of Trustees adopted a resolution requiring a consultant to perform a financial assessment of EMS before rendering a decision on the transfer. The Medical Center will pay for the study. The financial study will provide information on the necessary steps to make the EMS service a more effective and efficient system for the Medical Center. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, AUGUST 18, 1997 BOOK 26 PAGE 73 Commissioner Birzenieks spoke in favor offorming a joint steering committee to review the financial aspects oftransferring EMS to the Medical Center. He strongly objected to hiring an out-of- town consultant because of cost, and he recommended performance of the study by the hospital and county members of staff. Commissioner Davis inquired as to whether Columbia Cape Fear had shown any interest in assuming EMS? County Manager O'Neal advised that Columbia Cape Fear had been contacted twice about assuming the service, but no response had been received. Consensus: After further discussion of the Commissioners feeling that a consultant was not needed, it was the consensus of the Board to authorize the appointment of a steering committee comprised of hospital and county administrative staff members to perform an assessment of the financial aspects oftransferring EMS to the Medical Center. The Board agreed not to appoint a County Commissioner to serve on the committee. "County Employees Appreciation Day" Scheduled for October 15, 1997 County Manager 0 'Neal reported for a number of years, the County has sponsored "County Employees Appreciation Day" to express appreciation to the employees for their dedicated service. He advised the date of October 15, 1997, has been selected and stated the event would be held in Hugh MacRae Park from 11: 15 AM. until 1: 3 0 P.M. with a lunch served to the employees by the County Commissioners and Management Staff. Consensus: It was the consensus of the Board to schedule "County Employees Appreciation Day" on Wednesday, October 15, 1997, from 11: 15 AM. until 1: 3 0 P.M. in Hugh MacRae Park. Discussion of Visits to the Schools of Technology in Lincoln and Guilford Counties County Manager O'Neal requested the Board to select a date to visit the School of Technology in Lincoln County and the Weaver Center in Guilford County. Consensus: It was the consensus of the Board for the County Manager and Clerk to the Board to review the calender and recommend dates for scheduling the visits. Discussion of Receiving Reports from the Superintendent of Schools and the Director of Social Services on the Success of the Governor's ABC Program and the Work First Program Commissioner Howell commented on attending a seminar at the Annual Conference of the N. C. Association of County Commissioners and recommended hearing reports from the Superintendent of Schools and Director of Social Services regarding the success of the Governor's ABC Program and Work First Program. Consensus: It was the consensus of the Board to hear reports from the Superintendent of Schools and Director of Social Services at the September 15, 1997, meeting. Discussion of Hurricane Re-entry Plan for Pleasure Island Vice-Chairman Caster reported that he, Dan Summers and Sheriff McQueen met with officials from Carolina Beach and Kure Beach to discuss a hurricane re-entry plan for Pleasure Island. The beach communities were willing to divide the unincorporated Hanby/Wilmington beach area from Alabama Avenue south to Kure Beach and north to Carolina Beach. Stickers would be issued to these residents to control re-entry to Pleasure Island. The mayors were present and all persons stated the unpleasant events that occurred after Hurricane Fran would not occur with a future disaster. Also, discussion was held on the lack of staffing from the beach communities in the Emergency Operations Center during Hurricane Fran. The mayors agreed to provide more representation in future events. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, AUGUST 18, 1997 BOOK 26 PAGE 74 Chairman Greer Was Congratulated For Being Elected to Serve as the First Vice-President of the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners Commissioner Birzenieks commented on the Annual Conference of the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners held in Greensboro, N. C. and congratulated Chairman Greer for being elected as the First Vice-President of the Association. ADJOURNMENT Chairman Greer adjourned the meeting at 12:06 P.M. Respectfully submitted, Lucie F. Harrell Clerk to the Board