Loading...
1995-06-19 Regular Meeting NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 19, 1995 BOOK 24 PAGE 745 ASSEMBLY The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners met in Regular Session on Monday, June 19, 1995, at 9:00 A.M. in the Assembly Room of the New Hanover County Courthouse, 24 North Third Street, Wilmington, North Carolina. Members present were: Commissioners Sandra Barone; WilliamA. Caster; William E. Sisson, Jr.; vice-Chairman E. L. Mathews, Jr.; Chairman Robert G. Greer; County Manager, Allen 0' 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 Finance Director, Andrew J. Atkinson, gave the invocation. vice-Chairman Mathews led the audience ln the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. NON-AGENDA ITEMS Chairman Greer inquired as to whether anyone from the general public would like to present an item not listed on the Regular Agenda or comment on an item listed on the Consent Agenda. The following remarks were received. Concern for Authorizing the Town of Wrightsville Beach to Administer Animal Control Activities on Shell Island Dr. Robert J. Kastner, an Emergency Physician, expressed concern for shifting the animal control activities for the Shell Island area to the Town of Wrightsville Beach, and requested the Commissioners to allow the County to continue to provide this service. He explained this was the only area in the beach communities where people could carry their dogs for a swim or allow them to run freely along the beach. After checking with the Animal Control Center, there was no record of a single dog bite on Shell Island, nor any significant number of complaints recorded. Dr. Kastner expressed concern for many of the regulations being recommended by the Animal Control Advisory Board and requested the Commissioners to allow the present ordinance to remain unchanged. County Attorney Copley reported meetings had been held with the Wrightsville Beach Town Attorney, John Wessell, to discuss whether the Animal Control Ordinance would have to be amended in order to enforce the ordinance in the Town of Wrightsville Beach. This matter was to be presented to the Wrightsville Beach Board of Aldermen; therefore, no agreement had been reached. She reported if an agreement was negotiated, it would be similar to the interlocal agreement for enforcement of Wrightsville Beach swimming regulations at the northern end of Wrightsville Beach. Commissioner Sisson expressed concern for dogs running freely on the beach and pointed out that people do not have to be bitten to be frightened or intimidated by a dog. He requested the Commissioners to examine the entire picture when addressing animal control issues. After further discussion, the County Attorney was requested to continue to review this issue and report back to the Board. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA County Attorney Copley commented on Consent Agenda Item 6 and requested approval of a revised agreement with a completion date of August 15, 1995, in lieu of 45 days, for the removal of the boat shed at the Cape Fear Museum to the Underwater Archaeology Unit at Fort Fisher. She reported the State needed additional time for the removal process. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 19, 1995 BOOK 24 PAGE 746 Commissioner Sisson requested removal of Items 3, 4, and 14. Chairman Greer requested removal of Items 2, 10, and 12 Motion: Vice-Chairman Mathews MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Sisson to approve the Consent Agenda as presented with removal of Items 2, 3, 4, 10, 12, and 14 for further discussion and consideration. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. CONSENT AGENDA Approval of Minutes The Commissioners approved the minutes of the May 23, 1995, Budget Work Session and the minutes of the June 5, 1995, Consolidation Study Commission meeting as presented by the Clerk to the Board. Approval of Consultant Contract #95-0313 with Emergency Response Planning and Management, Inc. The Commissioners approved a contract with Emergency Response Planning and Management, Inc. in the amount of $6,000 to provide written reports and an analysis on the acquisition of an aerial fire fighting apparatus to be placed in the south-central area of New Hanover County. A copy of the contract lS on file in the Legal Department. Approval of Amended Contract #95-0357 with the State of North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources, Division of Archives and History, Historical Preservation Section for Transfer of the Boat Shed at the Cape Fear Museum The Commissioners approved an amended contract with the State of North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources, Division of Archives and History to transfer the boat shed at the Cape Fear Museum to the Underwater Archaeology Unit at Fort Fisher by August 15, 1995, instead of the forty-five day requirement in the original contract. A copy of the contract is on file in the Legal Department. Adoption of Resolution Proclaiming the Month of July as "Parks and Recreation Month" in New Hanover County The Commissioners adopted a resolution proclaiming the month of July as "Parks and Recreation Month" in New Hanover County. A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXII, Page 37. Acceptance of Tax Collection Reports for the Month Ending May 31, 1995 The Commissioners accepted the Reports for the month ending May 31, Collector of Revenue: following Tax Collection 1995, as submitted by the 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 XXII, Page 37. Release of Value - Tax Department The Commissioners released a certification penalty to Edgar Eugene Roberts, Jr. in the amount of $100 because the taxpayer had listed on time in another county. The Commissioners released a value reduction of $202,500 on an airplane discovery to Duncan Enterprises because of high engine hours that were brought to the attention of the Tax Department. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 19, 1995 BOOK 24 PAGE 747 The Commissioners released a late amount of $8.25 to Fred S. Wright and because the taxpayer had been misinformed and this was the first offense. listing penalty in the wife, Diane T. Wright, by the Tax Department, The Commissioners approved a delinquent application for exemption from property tax for the following organization: Cape Fear Habitat for Humanity R04809-031-002-000 R04813-009-010-000 Adoption of Resolution to Authorize the Sale of Real Property Located at 705 Brunswick Street Jointly Owned by the City of Wilmington and New Hanover County The Commissioners adopted a resolution to authorize the sale of surplus property jointly owned by the City of Wilmington and New Hanover County to Linell and Stephanie Josey identified as follows: 048-13-005-007.000 Address Amount of Offer 705 Brunswick St. $1,100 Tax Value $1,050 Market Value $1,100 Parcel Number Offerer: Linell and Stephanie Josey P. O. Box 515 Castle Hayne, N. C. Property Dimensions: 35' x 50' The offer to purchase has been duly advertised for upset bid. A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXII, Page 37. Adoption of Resolution for Road Additions to the State Highway System The Commissioners adopted a resolution to add roads in the "South of Woodberry" 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 XXII, Page 37. Approval of Budget Amendment 95-55 - Sheriff's Department - Federal Forfeited Property The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment: Budget Amendment 95-55 Debit Credit Federal Forfeited Property Transfer to General Fund to Project Interdiction $22,775 Federal Forfeited Property Supplies $22,775 Sheriff's Prolect Interdiction Transfer in from Federal Property $22,775 Sheriff's Prolect Interdiction Salaries $22,775 Purpose: To establish a budget to transfer funds from Federal Forfeited Property revenues to be used as a match for the Project Interdiction grant for the Sheriff's Department. The Commissioners approved appropriating the match from Federal Forfeited Property when the grant was awarded. Approval of Budget Amendment #95-0222 - Health Department - Family Planning The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment: NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 19, 1995 BOOK 24 PAGE 748 Budget Amendment #95-0222 Debit Credit Health/Family Planninq Family Planning State Grant $2,000 Departmental Supplies $2,000 Purpose: To budget additional pharmaceutical supplies. State funds to purchase Approval of Budget Amendment #95-0226 to Record Installment Loan Purchases The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment: Budget Amendment #95-0226 Debit Credit Tax Department Installment Loan Proceeds $ 8,330 Capital Outlay - Equipment $ 8,330 Social Services Sale of Fixed Assets Installment Loan Proceeds $ 5,850 $233,350 Capital Outlay - Equipment $239,200 Emerqency Medical Services Installment Loan Proceeds $ 91,420 Motor Vehicle Purchases $ 91,420 Environmental Manaqement Fund Installment Loan Proceeds $ 22,678 Landfill Operations Capital Outlay Motor Vehicle Purchases $ 4,637 $ 18,041 Water & Sewer District Installment Loan Proceeds $454,500 Water & Sewer Enqineerinq Capital Outlay - Equipment $454,500 Purpose: To record the following installment loan purchases: 1. Tax Department - computer equipment. 2. Social Services - Phase II/Computer System and printers, and to recognize the IBM trade-in allowance. 3. Emergency Medical Services - ambulance. 4. Environmental Management/Landfill - computer equipment, pressure washer, and truck. 5. Water & Sewer Engineering various equipment and purchase of G&F Utilities through owner financing. Approval of Budget Amendment #95-0229 - Health Department - Child Health The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment: Budget Amendment #95-0229 Debit Credit Health Department/Child Health Childhood poisoning $4,655 NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 19, 1995 BOOK 24 PAGE 749 (Budget Amendment #95-0229 continued) Debit Credit $1,000 $3,355 $ 300 Salaries & Wages Departmental Supplies Training & Travel Purpose: To budget additional State funding received as reimbursement for three confirmed childhood lead poisoning cases ln New Hanover County. Approval of Budget Amendment #95-0228 for the Department of Social Services The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment: #95-0228 Debit Credit DSS/Administration DSS Administration Grants DSS/Foster Care AFDC Foster Care Title IV-E Maximization EA Foster Care EA Maximization $ 22,025 $ 86,000 $ 97,000 $ 9,000 $ 1,000 DSS/Medicaid Payments $100,000 DSS/Crisis Intervention Salaries and Wages $ 5,540 DSS/Administration Salaries & Wages $ 14,565 DSS/Food Stamps Contracted Services $ 7,000 DSS/Foster Care IVE (AFDC) Foster Care Specialized Foster Care $128,000 $165,000 DSS/Child Support Services Contracted Services $ 6,000 Purpose: To budget new State and Federal funds for the Child Support, Food Stamp, and Foster Care Programs, and to realign the current budget to provide the local match. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS Adoption of Resolution to Award Bid #95-0302 (Contract #95-0302) to Carolina Coast Harley Davidson for the Purchase of Five (5) 1996 Motorcycles and the Sale of Four (4) Motorcycles as a Trade-In Allowance for the Purchase and Approval of Budget Amendment #95-56 (Consent Agenda Item 2) Chairman Greer inquired as to why a budget amendment was needed for $48,000 when the County was spending only $14,OOO? Budget Director, Cam Griffin, responded the budget amendment was for accounting purposes to reflect a trade-in value of $48,000 for the 1994 motorcycles and a net cost of $14,000 to the County. She reported the $ 62, 000 would show up in the budget as an expenditure; however, in order to use federal forfeiture funds, the budget amendment had to be recorded in this manner. vice-Chairman Mathews inquired as to why the Sheriff was trading in four (4) 1994 motorcycles with less than 2,400 miles on each vehicle? County Manager O'Neal advised the Board that Sheriff McQueen was using the trade-in program, which allows the motorcycles to be NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 19, 1995 BOOK 24 PAGE 750 traded in while still valuable and at the same time keep the motorcycle fleet in mint condition at a minimal cost. Motion: Commissioner Sisson MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Mathews to adopt a resolution to award the bid in the amount of $14,000 to Carolina Coast Harley Davidson, the only responsible bidder, and approve the associated Budget Amendment as listed below. The Chairman was authorized to execute the necessary contract documents. Five (5) 1996 Motorcycles Less Trade-in of four (4) 1995 Motorcycles Bid Award $62,000 48,000 $14,000 Budget Amendment #95-56 Debit Credit Federal Forfeited Property Federal Forfeited Property $48,000 Federal Forfeited Property Motor Vehicles $48,000 Purpose: To increase the budget for a trade-in allowance for (4) four 1994 Harley Davidson motorcycles previously purchased with Federal Forfeiture funds. A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXII, Page 37. A copy of the contract is on file in the Legal Department. Authorization to Release Impact Fees to the Wrightsboro Volunteer Fire Department and the Seagate Volunteer Fire Department (Consent Agenda Items 3 and 4) Commissioner Sisson advised he had no problem with approving the release of the impact fees contingent upon a policy being written that would require each Volunteer Fire Department to reflect the amount of money received as additional revenue in the fiscal year budget. Budget Director, Cam Griffin, explained that impact fees were kept in a separate fund, and upon approval for the release of fees by the Fire Commission, the request was forwarded to the Board of County Commissioners for final approval. Once the fees were released, the Fire Commission was aware of the additional revenue received by that Department and the amount of increase in the budget. Commissioner Sisson expressed concern for the budget reporting not being specifically written in some form of a written policy, or being incorporated into the contract. Motion: After further discussion, Commissioner Sisson MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Mathews to implement a written policy that would require each Volunteer Fire Department receiving impact fees to report this money as additional revenue in that Fire Department's budget. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Motion: Commissioner Sisson MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Mathews to authorize release of impact fees in the amount of $12,463.82 to the Wrightsboro Volunteer Fire Department with these funds to be used for the purchase of five (5) sets of turnout gear, twelve (12) helmets, ten (10) pass units, ten (10) pairs of boots, and five (5) pagers. Motion: Commissioner Sisson MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Mathews to authorize release of impact fees in the amount of $2,884.14 to the Seagate Volunteer Fire Department with these funds to be used toward the completion of the roof and second-floor project on the fire station. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 19, 1995 BOOK 24 PAGE 751 Authorization for the Health Department to File a Grant Application with the Cannon Foundation for Safety Issues in the Home Chairman Greer expressed concern for the Cannon Foundation guidelines requiring the applicant to show evidence that the projects would be sustained financially on a continuing basis, and he requested an explanation of this statement. Ms. Janet McCumbee, a Public Health Nurse, responded the application would stipulate that the Health Department would not provide continuing funding for the program from its budget; however, if the program proves to be successful and needed in the community, the Health Department would seek private funds. Commissioner Barone requested Ms. McCumbee to forward a copy of the grant application reflecting the language used to show the program would not be funded on a continuing basis to the Clerk, Ms. Lucie F. Harrell. Motion: Chairman Greer MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Sisson to authorize the Health Department to file a grant application in the amount of $11,000 to the Cannon Foundation to provide fire prevention and fire safety education to families in the Child Services Coordination caseload contingent upon wording in the application specifically stating the program will not be funded by the Health Department on a continuing basis. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Approval of Contract #95-0314 with the Child Advocacy Commission of the Lower Cape Fear Chairman Greer noted he had no problem with contracting the service, but he felt the budget for the Department of Social Services (DSS) should be decreased by $60,000 since the department was no longer providing the service. County Manager O'Neal explained that $60,000 had been included ln the recommended FY 1995-96 budget for the Department of Social Services to contract the inspection services; therefore, no addi tional funds would be needed. Due to a lack of staff, DSS decided to contract the serVlce ln lieu of hiring additional employees. Chairman Greer expressed concern for privatizing serVlces and not savlng money. Commissioner Barone inquired as to whether this was a duplication of health and safety standards? Deputy County Manager Atkinson reported the Department of Social Services was responsible for inspecting non-registered home day care providers, which care for 8 to 12 children, to insure compliance of health and safety standards; however, due to a lack of DSS staff these inspections had not been performed. Chairman Greer inquired as to when the Health Department enters into the inspection of day care centers? Ms. McCumbee responded the Environmental Health Division is required to inspect day care centers, but not home day care centers. Commissioner Barone expressed concern for small, home day care centers being put out of business because of these types of regulations by government agencies. County Manager O'Neal advised that State policy requires non- registered day care homes to meet safety and health standards prior to the authorization of payment for day care. Also, the contract requires inspection of only the homes providing services to DSS clients. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 19, 1995 BOOK 24 PAGE 752 Ms. McCumbee advised that home day care centers very much desired to be in compliance with State standards in order to be considered professional day care centers. Commissioner Barone stated she would be more comfortable approving the contract if some of the non-registered providers were present and supportive of this matter. Motion: Vice-Chairman Mathews MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Sisson to approve a contract with the Child Advocacy Commission of the Lower Cape Fear to insure compliance of safety standards in the provision of day care services to clients of the New Hanover County Department of Social Services by non-registered day care providers. The Chairman was authorized to execute the necessary documents. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS: Voting Aye: Commissioner Caster Commissioner Sisson Vice-Chairman Mathews Chairman Greer Voting Nay: Commissioner Barone A copy of the contract is on file ln the Legal Department. Authorization for Waiver of Rental Fee to the Southeastern Center for the Detox Center in FY 1994-95 and Approval of Budget Amendment #95-0230 Commissioner Sisson expressed concern for this item being placed on the Consent Agenda. He advised the Board that this was a one-time rental waiver that would greatly assist the Southeastern Center with its financial deficit before the beginning of FY 1995- 96. Without this financial assistance, the Southeastern Center will have to reduce services, and patients will either end up in the hospital or on the streets, which will eventually be paid by the taxpayers. Chairman Greer expressed concern for approving the rental waiver until the Southeastern Center had proven itself financially. He, also, expressed concern for continually having innocent people to pay for substance abuse patients and reported many of the clients go through the courts numerous times with use of treatment centers as a dumping ground for the courts. Commissioner Sisson responded the billing procedure had been corrected, which was the major reason for the financial deficit of the Southeastern Center. Commissioner Barone complimented the new director of the Southeastern Center for the outstanding job being performed ln correcting the financial problems experienced by the Center. Motion: Vice-Chairman Mathews MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Sisson to approve the following Budget Amendment to increase the County's contribution to the Southeastern Center in the amount of $82,500 from FY 1994-95 contingencies. The floor was opened for discussion. Dr. Costantini reported negotiations had been occurring with New Hanover Regional Medical Center during the past four months for use of the Oaks; however, since the Director of the Oaks has left employment with the hospital, no decision has been rendered. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS: Voting Aye: Commissioner Barone Commissioner Caster Commissioner Sisson Vice-Chairman Mathews NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 19, 1995 BOOK 24 PAGE 753 Voting Nay: Chairman Greer Budget Amendment #95-0230 Debit Credit Non-Departmental Contingencies Outside Aqencies/Human Services Southeastern Center $82,500 $82,500 Purpose: To transfer funds from contingencies to increase the County's contribution to the Southeastern Center for Mental Health by $82,500 for the FY 1994-95 rent payment on the Detox Center. PRESENTATION OF SERVICES AWARDS County Manager O'Neal requested the following employees to step forward to receive Service Awards: Name Years of Service Antoinette S. Leeuwenburg, Budget Department Arthur C. Rogers, Jr., Engineering Department 10 years 10 years Dottie S. Ray, Finance Department 15 years Chairman Greer, on behalf of the Board, presented the service awards and expressed appreciation to the County employees for their years of dedicated service. DESIGNATION OF VOTING DELEGATE TO THE 60TH ANNUAL CONFERENCE OF THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF COUNTIES Motion: Commissioner Barone MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Caster to designate Chairman Greer as the voting delegate to the 60th Annual Conference of the National Association of Counties to be held July 21-25, 1995, in Atlanta, Georgia. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Motion: Commissioner Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Barone to designate Vice-Chairman Mathews as the alternate delegate to the 60th Annual Conference of the National Association of Counties. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. MEETING CONVENED FROM REGULAR SESSION TO HOLD A MEETING OF THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY WATER & SEWER DISTRICT Chairman Greer convened from Regular Session at 10:00 A.M. until 10:31 A.M. BREAK Chairman Greer called a break from 10:32 A.M. until 10:40 A.M. COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS Appointment of Donald Zearfoss to Serve on the ABC Board and Reappointment of Dr. Howard L. Armistead As Chairman of the ABC Board for the Ensuing Year Chairman Greer advised the Board that four applications had been received to fill one vacancy on the ABC Board. Also, under N.C.G.S.18B-700, the Board was required to appoint a Chairman of the ABC Board for the coming year. He reported the ABC Board had requested reappointment of Dr. Howard L. Armistead as Chairman. Chairman Greer opened the floor to receive nominations. Commissioner Barone nominated Donald Zearfoss. The nomination was seconded by Commissioner Caster. There being no further nominations, Chairman Greer declared the nominations closed. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 19, 1995 BOOK 24 PAGE 754 Vote: Upon vote, the Board UNANIMOUSLY approved the appointment of Donald Zearfoss to serve a three-year term on the ABC Board with the term to expire on June 30, 1998. Chairman Greer requested a motion for appointment of a Chairman of the ABC Board for the coming year. Motion: Commissioner Barone MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Caster to reappoint Dr. Howard L. Armistead to serve as Chairman of the ABC Board for the coming year. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Appointment of Parks L. Griffin and Irvin A. Roseman to Serve on the New Hanover County Airport Authority Chairman Greer advised the Board that twelve applications had been received to fill two vacancies on the Airport Authority. He opened the floor to receive nominations. Commissioner Caster nominated Parks L. nomination was seconded by Commissioner Sisson. Griffin. The Commissioner Barone nominated John M. Coble. The nomination was seconded by Chairman Greer. Commissioner Sisson nominated Irvin A. Roseman. The nomination was seconded by Vice-Chairman Mathews. Chairman Greer nominated Carter T. Lambeth. was seconded by Commissioner Caster. The nomination There being no further nominations, Chairman Greer declared the nominations closed. Vote: Chairman Greer called for a vote on the appointment of Parks L. Griffin to serve on the Airport Authority. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS: Voting Aye: Commissioner Caster Commissioner Sisson Chairman Greer Voting Nay: Commissioner Barone Vice-Chairman Mathews Vote: Chairman Greer called for a vote on the appointment of John M. Coble to serve on the Airport Authority. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS: Voting Aye: Commissioner Barone Chairman Greer Vice-Chairman Mathews Voting Nay: Commissioner Caster Commissioner Sisson A lengthy discussion was held on whether to continue to vote on each nominee since two persons had received a majority vote. Chairman Greer expressed concern for voting on each nominee because this was not the normal procedure of the Board when making committee appointments. After further discussion, it was agreed to vote on each nominee with each Commissioner casting two affirmative votes since there were two vacancies. Vote: Chairman Greer called for a vote on the appointment of Irvin A. Roseman. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS and Irvin A. Roseman was appointed to serve a four-year term on the New Hanover County Airport Authority. The term will expire June 30, 1999. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 19, 1995 BOOK 24 PAGE 755 Voting Aye: Commissioner Barone Commissioner Caster Commissioner Sisson Vice-Chairman Mathews Voting Nay: Chairman Greer Vote: Chairman Greer called for a vote on the appointment of Carter T. Lambeth. Upon vote, the MOTION DID NOT RECEIVE A VOTE. After discussion of a tie vote between John M. Coble and Parks L. Griffin, it was the consensus of the Board to request the County Attorney to toss a coin with heads designated for Parks L. Griffin and tails designated for John M. Coble. Chairman Greer announced the coin appointed to serve Airport Authority. flipped the coin and County Attorney Copley toss was "heads". Parks L. Griffin was a four-year term on the New Hanover County The term will expire June 30, 1999. Chairman Greer expressed concern for no written procedure in the Committee Appointment Policy for addressing tie votes and requested the Clerk to the Board and County Attorney to address this issue. Appointment of Robert S. Rippy to Serve on the Cape Fear Community College Board of Trustees Chairman Greer advised the Board that seven applications had been received to fill one vacancy on the Cape Fear Community College Board of Trustees. Chairman Greer opened the floor to recelve nominations. Commissioner Caster nominated Robert S. Rippy. The nomination was seconded by Vice-Chairman Mathews. Commissioner Barone nominated Bill B. Henderson. The nomination did not recelve a SECOND. There being no further nominations, Chairman Greer declared the nominations closed. Vote: Chairman Greer called for a vote on the appointment of Robert S. Rippy. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS, and Robert S. Rippy was appointed to serve a four-year term on the Cape Fear Community College Board of Trustees with the term to expire June 30, 1999: Voting Aye: Commissioner Caster Commissioner Sisson Vice-Chairman Mathews Chairman Greer Voting Nay: Commissioner Barone POSTPONEMENT OF APPOINTMENTS TO THE BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS Commissioner Sisson reported he and Vice-Chairman Mathews served on the Public Safety Committee of the Consolidation Study Commission. Since members currently serving on the Board of Fire Commissioners have been assisting the Public Safety Committee in trying to combine the City Fire Service with the Volunteer Fire Service, it is felt a change in the Board of Fire Commissioners should not occur at this time. He recommended postponing appointments until the second meeting in October. Vice-Chairman Mathews inquired as to whether the Clerk to the Board had contacted the current members to see if they were willing to serve through October, 1995. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 19, 1995 BOOK 24 PAGE 756 Clerk to the Board, Lucie F. Harrell, reported the members had been contacted and were willing to serve through October. Consensus: It was the consensus of the Board to postpone appointments to the Board of Fire Commissioners through October, 1995. Reappointment of Michael Zentmeyer and Julie B. MacAllister to Serve on the Human Services Allocation Advisory Committee and Appointment of Coley Pogosian to Serve on the Human Services Allocation Advisory Committee Chairman Greer advised the Board that three applications had been received to fill three vacancies on the Human Services Allocation Advisory Committee. He reported Michael Zentmeyer was eligible to serve another three-year term and desired to be reappointed, and Julie B. MacAllister had requested reappointment to a third three-year term. Motion: Commissioner Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Mathews to reappoint Michael Zentmeyer and Julie B. MacAllister, and to appoint Coley pogosian to serve three-year terms on the Human Services Allocation Advisory Committee. The terms are to expire June 30, 1998. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Reappointment of Moe Kotler to Serve on the Jury Commission Chairman Greer advised the Board that one application had been received to fill one vacancy on the Jury Commission from Moe Kotler, who would like to be reappointed. Motion: Vice-Chairman Mathews MOVED, SECONDED Sisson to reappoint Moe Kotler to serve a two-year Commission with the term to expire June 30, 1997. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. by Commissioner term on the Jury Upon vote, the Reappointment of Olga R. Wheatley and Ronald H. Woodruff and Appointment of Jack F. Hart, Jr., and Donald Patience to Serve on the Cape Fear Museum Board of Trustees Chairman Greer advised the Board that nine applications had been received to fill four vacancies on the Cape Fear Museum Board of Trustees with four of the applicants now serving on the board and desiring to be reappointed. Chairman Greer opened the floor to receive nominations. Commissioner Barone nominated Jack F. Hart, nomination was seconded by Vice-Chairman Mathews. Jr. The Commissioner Caster nominated Donald Patience. The nomination was seconded by Commissioner Barone. Commissioner Sisson nominated Olga R. Wheatley for reappointment. The nomination was seconded by Chairman Greer. Vice-Chairman Mathews nominated Ronald H. Woodruff for reappointment. The nomination was seconded by Commissioner Sisson. There being no further nominations, Chairman Greer declared the nominations closed. Vote: Upon vote, the Board UNANIMOUSLY REAPPOINTED Ronald H. Woodruff to serve a three-year term on the Museum Board of Trustees; UNANIMOUSLY APPOINTED Jack F. Hart and Donald Patience to serve three-year terms on the Museum Board of Trustees; and VOTED FOUR TO ONE TO REAPPOINT Olga R. Wheatley to serve a three-year term on the Museum Board of Trustees. Commissioner Barone voted in opposition to the reappointment of Olga R. Wheatley. The terms will expire June 30, 1998. Appointments to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Chairman Greer advised the Board that three applications had been received to fill two vacancies and one unexpired term on the NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 19, 1995 BOOK 24 PAGE 757 Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. He reported Mr. Gehrig Spencer was eligible for reappointment and desired to be reappointed. Also, the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board had requested reappointment of Jack Bragg for a third term because of his vital role in the current development of the park sites. Chairman Greer opened the floor to receive nominations. vice-Chairman Mathews nominated Jack Bragg to serve a third 3- year term. The nomination was seconded by Commissioner Sisson. Commissioner Caster nominated Gehrig Spencer for reappointment to a 3-year term. The nomination was seconded by Commissioner Sisson. Commissioner unexpired term. Barone. Cas ter nominated J. The nomination was Paul Abrams seconded by to fill the Commissioner There being no further nominations, Chairman Greer declared the nominations closed. Vote: Upon vote, the Board UNANIMOUSLY REAPPOINTED Jack Bragg to serve a third, 3-year term and Gehrig Spencer to serve a second, 3- year term on the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board with the terms to expire June 30, 1998, and APPOINTED J. Paul Abrams to fill the unexpired term on the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board with the term to expire June 30, 1996. Appointment of Bessie W. Funderburg to Serve on the Board of Social Services Chairman Greer advised the Board that one application had been received to fill one vacancy on the Board of Social Services. Motion: Commissioner Sisson MOVED, SECONDED by Chairman Greer to appoint Bessie W. Funderburg to serve a three-year term on the Board of Social Services with the term to expire June 30, 1998. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS: Voting Aye: Commissioner Caster Commissioner Sisson Vice-Chairman Mathews Chairman Greer Voting Nay: Commissioner Barone Appointment to the Child Fatality Prevention Team Ms. Janet McCumbee advised the Board that under N.C.G.S. Article 62, Chapter 143, the County Commissioners were required to appoint members to the Child Fatality Prevention Team in the following categories: (1) a Law Enforcement Officer; (2) an Emergency Medical Services Provider or Firefighter; (3) a parent of a child who died prior to his 18th birthday; and (4) four additional members at-large. Since the Community Child Protection Team was established in 1991 to review cases involving child protective services and childhood deaths from abuse or neglect, the members presently serving have become a vital part of the Child Fatality Prevention Team. The Commissioners were requested to make the following appointments: Sharon Vincent Russell Ashley Julia Esmiol Susan W. Weaver Kevin Foss Barry Key Janet McCumbee Tom Koonce - Law Enforcement Officer (City) - Emergency Medical Services - Parent - Chairman of the Team - Law Enforcement Officer (County) - Law Enforcement Officer (City) - Nurse and Vice-Chairman - Child Protective Services Supervisor NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 19, 1995 BOOK 24 PAGE 758 Commissioner Barone commented on the number of hours given by County employees from the Health Department, Sheriff's Department and Emergency Medical Services and expressed concern for being told the program would be of no cost to the County when salaries were being paid by the county taxpayers for these employees to perform their designated duties. Chairman Greer responded this was a mandated State program. Commissioner Barone strongly obj ected to another unfunded mandate and stated she could not support the program. Commissioner Sisson stated as a health care provider, he would urge the Board of Health not to limit appointments to the medical profession. As a Chiropractic Physician, who does not practice traditional medicine, he does have involvement with the health and well being of families and children. He, again, reiterated the importance of the Health Department taking this fact into consideration when appointing persons to community projects. Ms. McCumbee expressed appreciation to Commissioner Sisson for his remarks and reported due to a deadline for appointments, there was not enough time to advertise; however, next year the vacancies would be advertised. Motion: Commissioner Sisson MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Mathews to appoint the members recommended by the Health Department to serve on the Child Fatality Prevention Team as listed above. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS: Voting Aye: Commissioner Caster Commissioner Sisson Vice-Chairman Mathews Chairman Greer Voting Nay: Commissioner Barone BUDGET REVIEW WORK SESSION FOR THE FY 1995-96 BUDGET County Manager 0' Neal presented a list of budget requests received at the Public Hearing held on June 5, 1995. He, also, commented on the accountability options presented for the schools and reported Option II would require additional monthly accounting for expenditures on renovations and school maintenance. Denial of Full-time Clerk position for the Animal Control Center Commissioner Barone inquired as to whether the Animal Control Director had checked into using volunteers of the Retired Senior Volunteer Program to assist with the maintenance of records? Deputy County Manager Atkinson advised he had discussed the use of senior volunteers with the Director of Animal Control, and reported contact had been made to see if volunteers were available to work on computers; however, the Animal Control Center was in the process of establishing a volunteer program, but the Director prefers the use of a regular employee instead of relying on a volunteer. Commissioner Barone reported the Retired Senior Volunteer Program was being expanded at a cost of $8,000 for the upcoming year; therefore, with computer training classes, many of these volunteers would be capable of data entry work. In her opinion, to use these volunteers, who consider work assignments as jobs and are very dependable, would only make sense when the program is being expanded with County funds. She also expressed concern for the Director of Animal Control not listening to her suggestion at the Budget Hearing held on June 5, 1995, and stated these volunteers should be used and given an opportunity to assist with the maintenance of records. If, for some reason, this situation is not satisfactory, then other arrangements can be made. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 19, 1995 BOOK 24 PAGE 759 Commissioner Sisson expressed concern for Animal Control Officers being used for computer work instead of responding to animal control complaints, and stated he felt eventually more Animal Control Officers would have to be hired. Commissioner Barone reminded the Commissioners that the new Animal Control Center was designed to allow the Animal Control Officers to spend more time in the field and less time in the shel ter. She recommended allowing the Center to operate for a period of time before approving any new positions. Chairman Greer recommended the use of a temporary person to assist with handling the backlog of work. Vote: After further discussion, Chairman Greer called for a vote on the request from the Animal Control Center to approve additional funds in the amount of $12,212 to fund a full-time clerical position. Upon vote, the Board VOTED UNANIMOUSLY TO DENY the request. Approval of Additional Nurse position for the Main Jail Commissioner Barone inquired as to whether a person could be used from the Health Department? Chairman Greer explained that the Medical Program for the main jail was administered by the Health Department; however, currently, a nurse was not on duty from 4:00 P.M. until 12:00 midnight. In his opinion, approval of another nurse position would probably save money because of the possible medical liability that could be incurred with untrained personnel. Commissioner Sisson agreed with Chairman Greer and cautioned allowing untrained personnel to perform routine medical procedures. Vote: After further discussion, Chairman Greer called for a vote on approving additional funds in the amount of $40,715 for an additional Nurse position at the main jail. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS: Voting Aye: Commissioner Caster Commissioner Sisson Vice-Chairman Mathews Chairman Greer Voting Nay: Commissioner Barone MEETING RECESSED FOR LUNCH Chairman Greer recessed the meeting for lunch at 12:05 P.M. until 1:00 P.M. Denial of Funding Request for Cure AIDS of Wilmington, Inc. Consensus: After discussion of this being a valuable program, the Board felt the various educational groups throughout the community should combine their efforts to create an awareness of AIDS, and by consensus DENIED THE FUNDING REQUEST for Cure AIDS of Wilmington, Inc. Approval of Additional Funding for Elderhaus Vice-Chairman Mathews recommended approving additional funding ln the amount of $3,500 in lieu of the $7,010 funding request. Commissioner Sisson commented on this being an unusual circumstance since Elderhaus had relocated its facility with many additional expenses incurred, and recommended approval of this one- time funding request in the amount of $7,010. Vote: Chairman Greer called for a vote on approval of additional funding in the amount of $7,010 to Elderhaus. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS: NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 19, 1995 BOOK 24 PAGE 760 Voting Aye: Commissioner Caster Commissioner Sisson Vice-Chairman Mathews Chairman Greer Voting Nay: Commissioner Barone Approval of Funding Request for the Community Penalties Program, Inc. Vice-Chairman Mathews, a member of the Community Penalties Program, Inc. Board of Directors, recommended approval of the funding request in the amount of $13,500. Commissioner Sisson inquired as to the amount of the funding request submitted by the Community Penalties Program? Budget Director Griffin responded the request was for $13,500 with no funding recommended by the Human Services Allocation Committee. Vote: After discussion, Chairman Greer called for a vote on approval of funding in the amount of $13,500 for the Community Penalties Program, Inc. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Approval of Funding Request for the Council of Governments Chairman Greer advised that the Council of Governments had requested additional funding in the amount of $2,234 instead of the $2,430 presented by the Budget Director. Vote: Chairman Greer called for a vote on approval of additional funding in the amount of $2,234 for the Cape Fear Council of Governments. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Approval of Funding Request for the Lower Cape Fear Hospice Chairman Greer recommended funding $10,000 for FY 1995-96 and for the next two years. Commissioner Barone advised she felt the Hospice proj ect should be funded through private funds and expressed concern for funding another outside agency. Vote: Chairman Greer called for a vote on approvlng funding in the amount of $10,000 to the Lower Cape Fear Hospice for FY 1995-96 and for the next two years. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS: Voting Aye: Commissioner Caster Commissioner Sisson Vice-Chairman Mathews Chairman Greer Voting Nay: Commissioner Barone County Manager O'Neal recommended informing Hospice that each $10,000 funding request would have to be considered each year even though it may be the intent of the Board for the $10,000 to be approved for the next two years. It was agreed to direct the County Manager to thoroughly explain this procedure to the Director of Hospice. Denial of Additional Funding Request for the Child Advocacy Commission Chairman Greer reported at the Public Hearing held on June 5, 1995, it was indicated the Child Advocacy Commission could operate without the additional $2,000. Also, since the County had just awarded a $60,000 contract to the Child Advocacy Commission for inspection of non-registered home child day care centers, he felt the additional funds were not needed. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 19, 1995 BOOK 24 PAGE 761 Vote: After further discussion, Chairman Greer called for a vote on the additional $2,000 funding request submitted by the Child Advocacy Commission. Upon vote, the Board VOTED UNANIMOUSLY TO DENY THE FUNDING REQUEST. Approval of Additional Funds for the Committee of 100 Chairman Greer recommended approving the additional funding request of $10,000 for the Committee of 100. vice-Chairman Mathews agreed and reported if the County does not provide the additional funding, the City of Wilmington and Pender County would reduce their funding requests for the next fiscal year. Also, in his opinion, the Committee of 100 receives far less funding than other economic development groups in other areas of the State. Commissioner Sisson expressed concern for the number of groups that promote economic development and recommended combining these agencies under one group with the pooling of resources. Also, the County should not feel forced to approve the additional funding because the City might reduce its funding request. He reported he would approve the additional funding with the proviso that the Committee of 100 understands the agency should move in the direction of combining the various groups to achieve their goals. Commissioner Barone advised that DARE was considering combining forces with the North Fourth Street and Castle Street organizations. Vote: Chairman Greer called for a vote to approve additional funding in the amount of $10,000 for a total funding request of $60,000 to the Committee of 100 for FY 1995-96. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Discussion of Funding Request Submitted by the Ogden-New Hanover Volunteer Rescue Squad Commissioner Sisson commented on the Ogden-New Hanover Volunteer Rescue Squad funding request and recommended use of the same accounting standards as being used by the Volunteer Fire Departments. Commissioner Barone reported the Board was advised at the June 5, 1995, Budget Hearing that additional funds would be used to provide a salary increase to an employee who had not received a raise in a number of years. After investigation by Staff, it now appears there is some discrepancy in this statement. County Manager O'Neal responded the statement was incorrect because the employee had received an increase. Commissioner Barone recommended removal of a salary increase for the employee in the amount of $857. She also commented on $19,500 being budgeted for maintenance and repairs in FY 1994-95 and reported this figure had increased to $29,250 for FY 1995-96. Also, contracted services in the amount of $500 for FY 1994-95 had increased to $1,500 for the performance of an audit. County Manager O'Neal responded the County could not require a traditional CPA audit for private non-profit organizations; however, specific directions had been provided for the necessary financial reporting. Commissioner Barone inquired as to whether the $500 covered the cost for providing the necessary financial reporting? County Manager O'Neal responded the $500 would cover the cost for financial reporting. Commissioner Sisson, again, recommended standardizing the accounting standards for all private and non-profit agencies. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 19, 1995 BOOK 24 PAGE 762 County Manager 0' Neal responded these accounting standards could be applied; however, the Ogden-New Hanover County Volunteer Rescue Squad had not met its contractual requirements in terms of . . . servlce provlslons. Commissioner Sisson expressed concern for the serVlces not being provided according to the contract, and he reminded the Commissioners that a majority of funding for the operation of the Ogden-New Hanover Volunteer Rescue Squad was provided by New Hanover County; therefore, he would recommend the use of standard accounting procedures for quarterly financial reporting by the Rescue Squad. In his opinion, this procedure would allow for compliance to the contractual requirements as well as financial reporting. Further discussion was held on the location of the Ogden-New Hanover Volunteer Rescue Squad. County Manager O'Neal reported the station was not in an ideal location; however, the space was needed. Chairman Greer suggested using another Volunteer Fire Station for the provision of rescue service with the use of funds appropriated to the Ogden-New Hanover Volunteer Rescue Squad, if the Rescue Squad does not provide the services as outlined in the contract. Vote: Chairman Greer called for a vote to approve funding in the amount of $79,397.64 (the same amount funded last year) to the Ogden-New Hanover Volunteer Rescue Squad for FY 1995-96. The County Manager was requested to require compliance of the services as outlined in the contract, and to inform the Rescue Squad that compliance action was at the request of the Board of County Commissioners. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Approval of Funding Request for Family Services Chairman Greer requested direction from the Board on whether to approve the $20,000 funding request from Family Services since the agency was late in submitting the CBA funding application. Commissioner Sisson recommended funding $10,000. Discussion was held on the procedure used by the Budget Department to insure that all agencies had been notified and were aware of the deadline for filing the CBA funding requests. Chairman Greer complimented the Budget Director and Staff for an excellent job in being sure that all agencies had received proper notification and stated, unfortunately, some agencies would fail to comply to the established deadline next year. Commissioner Sisson recommended notifying the Boards of Directors on the availability of funds and deadlines for submitting funding requests in lieu of the Executive Directors or Administrators. Consensus: After discussion of the procedure being used by the Budget Department, it was the consensus of the Board for the Budget Director to prepare a letter specifically explaining the necessary guidelines and deadlines that must be followed when submitting funding requests. A copy of the letter is to be forwarded to all outside agencies. Vote: Chairman Greer called for a vote on approval of funding in the amount of $10,000 to Family Services. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Discussion of Privatizing Child Support Collections Chairman Greer commented on eliminating eight positions from the DSS budget and inquired as to the amount of money saved, and stated if no money was saved, the positions should remain in the budget. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 19, 1995 BOOK 24 PAGE 763 Budget Director Griffin explained the actual savlngs was only $4,000 because of the following reasons: (1) the loss of reimbursement for the positions from state and federal funds; and (2) the loss of reimbursement for the percentage of fees collected from Child Support Services. She explained that losing both sources of revenue limited the amount of money saved for the County. Further discussion was held on the privatization of Child Support collections. County Manager O'Neal informed the Board that Director Morris had contacted Rowan and Durham counties, who had already contracted the services, and reported Rowan County had cancelled its contract and that Durham County was in the process of terminating its contract. He recommended moving forward with privatizing the Child Support collections, and stated if this was not a satisfactory arrangement, then the Board could consider the additional positions. Commissioner Barone recommended contracting the Child Support collections for two years, if feasible, in order to provide ample time to see if this service could be performed by the private sector. It was agreed to authorize the County Manager to continue to work toward privatization of Child Support collections. Approval of Budget Request for New Hanover County Schools County Manager 0' Neal presented the following options for monitoring the County funding of schools: Option I: Appropriate funding to the schools by current expenses and three different categories of capital outlay. Under this option, the Board of Education would have to obtain prior approval if the cumulative effect of a Budget Amendment would increase or decrease the amount of the County appropriation allocated by purpose, function, or project by 10 or 25 percent. Option II: Appropriate funding to the schools by individual projects. The Board of Education would be required to obtain prior approval if the cumulative effect of a Budget Amendment would lncrease or decrease the amount of the County appropriation allocated by 10 or 25 percent. vice-Chairman Mathews recommended a request for funds by each individual project. Commissioner Sisson agreed with the project-by-project option and stressed the need to open the lines of communication with the Board of Education. Commissioner Barone pointed out that twelve years of maintenance neglect could not be resolved in one year. She commented on the remarks made by the County Manager relative to prior approval of changes with a cumulative effect of 10 percent and expressed concern for the number of Budget Amendments that would have to be approved by both elected boards, which could delay school projects. County Manager O'Neal reported the 10 percent increased to 25% with the Board of Education having approval for any amount over this percentage. Also, an of each project could be required for the 10 percent as the total amount. could be to obtain accounting opposed to Commissioner Sisson recommended increasing prlor approval of changes with a cumulative effect of 25%. vice-Chairman Mathews inquired as to whether the County's Project Engineer could participate in overseeing the projects? NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 19, 1995 BOOK 24 PAGE 764 County Manager O'Neal commented on the numerous County proj ects in progress and expressed concern for overloading the Project Engineer with direct involvement in the school projects. Commissioner Caster reported he felt the Board of Education and School Administration were very much aware of the Commissioners' concerns about accountability for future projects, and stated he was not interested in becoming involved with the day- to-day operation of the schools. He commented on understanding the concerns expressed by Vice-Chairman Mathews and Commissioner Sisson, but pointed out that the members of the Board of Education were the elected officials responsible for properly administering the operation of New Hanover County schools. Further discussion was held on the use of the County's Project Engineer for inspecting school projects. County Manager O'Neal recommended randomly selecting a proj ect every quarter to be reviewed by the County's Proj ect Engineer with the Board of Education being informed about this policy, if implemented. Commissioner Barone commented on supplements paid to teachers and inquired as to whether the supplements were voluntary? County Manager O'Neal responded supplements for teachers were funded from local funds, and he reported the Board of Education and Board of County Commissioners could vote to eliminate the supplements if both boards so desired. Motion: After a lengthy discussion on school maintenance, vice- Chairman Mathews MOVED to adopt Option II increasing the 10 percent to 25 percent with the County's Project Engineer making quarterly random inspections on school construction sites. The floor was opened for discussion. Commissioner Barone requested the Board to allow her to make a suggestion before considering the motion made by Vice-Chairman Mathews. She commented on the figure received from the County Manager in the amount of $974,466, which represents 1.5 cents on the existing tax rate, and stated after adjustments to the budget according to actions taken at this meeting, she would recommend reducing the County Manager's recommended funding to the School System by the difference that would allow the tax rate to remain unchanged. Chairman Greer requested an explanation of the recommendation by Commissioner Barone. Commissioner Barone stated, the intent of her recommendation was to reduce the requested funding contribution to the schools by the difference that would avoid a tax increase. She commented on the increase in this year's contribution to the schools, which was over last year's contribution, and expressed concern for having to provide additional funds to the schools during the next fiscal year. She stated, in her opinion, it would be better to avoid a tax increase in lieu of increasing taxes and then having to borrow from the unappropriated fund balance to provide additional funds to the schools during the next fiscal year. She suggested delaying a decision on funding for the schools until Staff could prepare the exact figures on her proposed recommendation, at which time the Board could vote on this matter. Discussion was held on postponing a decision until later in the meeting. It was agreed to proceed with voting on funding for the schools. Substitute Motion: Commissioner Barone MOVED to proceed with Option II and reduce the funding contribution to the schools by the budget adjustments and the difference that would avoid a tax lncrease. The floor was opened for discussion. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 19, 1995 BOOK 24 PAGE 765 Chairman Greer inquired as to whether the Budget Director was prepared to present figures on the MOTION by Commissioner Barone. Budget Director Griffin stated if the school budget request was reduced by 1.5 cents on the tax rate, the schools would receive funding in the amount of $27,511,542 instead of $28,775,742. County Manager O'Neal advised that reducing the school budget would require the schools to adjust the construction projects for each school plus adhere to the Option II accountability requirements. Commissioner Barone responded she would like for the funds to be removed from the top of operating funds, not out of capital outlay funds. Chairman Greer called for a SECOND ON THE MOTION made by Commissioner Barone to avoid a tax increase by reducing the funding to the schools. The floor was opened for discussion. Commissioner Caster expressed concern for requiring more accountability by the schools and then having to find funds in the middle of a tax year. He stated, in his opinion, the shortfall at the WASTEC Facility was the only reason for proposing a tax increase of 3.5 cents. Emphasis was placed on the importance of the public understanding that budgets for other County departments were in line with expenditures held in place; therefore, he feels an increase in the tax rate of 1.5 cents is reasonable. Commissioner Barone expressed concern for not being aware of the shortfall at the WASTEC Facility, and reported she would discuss this matter later with the County Manager. Chairman Greer Commissioner Barone. SECOND. called for a SECOND ON THE MOTION by THE MOTION FAILED DUE TO NOT RECEIVING A Chairman Greer requested an explanation of the motion made by Vice-Chairman Mathews. County Manager O'Neal responded under the current motion by Vice-Chairman Mathews, a 25 percent change in the school budget for any project listed in the Budget Ordinance would require approval of a Budget Amendment by the Board of Education and the Board of County Commissioners before the change could occur. Also, if a 10 percent change occurs on a project, the School System would not be required to receive permission from the Board of County Commissioners to make the change, but they would be required to submi t a report on the proposed change. He advised in some instances the 25 percent requirement, which requires the action of both boards, could delay smaller maintenance projects, such as a project at the Carolina Beach Elementary School where only $250 was involved with the repair. Commissioner Sisson commented on the need to strike a balance between better control of changes in school projects, the amount of board action required, and the extra effort involved with preparing reports on changes, and stated he felt over a period of time, the 10 percent reporting would provide a pattern to show whether construction projects were running over or under estimated figures. As to a project change of more than 25 percent, he felt this was a significant change and should require action by both boards. County Manager O'Neal suggested establishing a reporting process for any changes over 10 percent without requiring the Budget Amendment process. Chairman Greer commented on the Board of Education being fully aware of the concerns of the Commissioners and inquired as to whether this procedure was really necessary? NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 19, 1995 BOOK 24 PAGE 766 Commissioner Sisson responded he felt the procedure was necessary because budgeted projects were not being completed by the schools. For example, one school was informed that construction of a mobile classroom could not begin until August because the new fiscal year did not begin until July when funds were available in the contingency account during the past fiscal year. Also, $75,000 was budgeted last year to connect the Ogden Elementary School to the County Sewer System; however, as of this date, the work has not been completed. The $75,000 was County funding designated for this purpose, and no one, including the principal, knows why the project was not completed. Commissioner Sisson strongly objected to this type of budget continuation, where funds are designated and budgeted for a project within the fiscal year, but the funds are not expended and held over to the next year with more maintenance funds being requested by the schools for the next year. He pointed out the proposed accountability for each project should discontinue this type of practice. Chairman Greer recommended asslgnlng County Staff to monitor each project with any unexpended funds at the end of the year not being rolled over into the next fiscal year. Commissioner Barone commented on the need for accountability and reported the Commissioners are responsible for providing funds to the schools; however, the Board does not have any control on how funds are used by the Board of Education. After further discussion, Chairman Greer called for a vote on the MOTION by Vice-Chairman Mathews, which was SECONDED by Commissioner Sisson, to adopt Option II, to appropriate funding to the Schools by individual projects under the following guidelines: (1) any change on a school construction proj ect exceeding 25 percent will require approval of a Budget Amendment by the Board of Education and the Board of County Commissioners; (2) changes over 10 percent must be reported to the Board of County Commissioners; and (3) the County's Project Engineer shall make quarterly random inspections of the school construction sites. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS: Voting Aye: Commissioner Barone Commissioner Sisson Vice-Chairman Mathews Voting Nay: Commissioner Caster Chairman Greer Motion: After further discussion, Chairman Greer MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Caster to reduce the County's contribution to the Medical Insurance Plan from $682,000 to $600,000, appropriate $1,000,000 from the fund balance, approve a tax rate of 63 cents for FY 1995-96, and approve the County Manager's recommended budget for the School System. The floor was opened for discussion. County Manager O'Neal commented on the County's contribution to the Medical Insurance Plan being an estimate and recommended appropriating that money from the fund balance with the funds being returned to the account if they were not used. Chairman Greer responded he was trying to keep the fund balance at $1,000,000 and inquired as to the amount of increase in the fund balance for the current year? Finance Director Shell increase by $3,000,000 to preliminary projection. responded the fund balance $5,000,000; however, this should was a Chairman Greer stressed the importance of the general public understanding that New Hanover County was not spending its savings account, but that New Hanover County was being conservative in NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 19, 1995 BOOK 24 PAGE 767 order to maintain an excellent financial position at the end of the next fiscal year. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS: Voting Aye: Commissioner Caster Commissioner Sisson Vice-Chairman Mathews Chairman Greer Voting Nay: Commissioner Barone Commissioner Barone stated, for the record, she could not vote for the motion because she felt the Board of Education should be more accountable. She complimented Staff for an excellent job in preparing the budget for FY 1995-96. ADOPTION OF FY 1995-96 BUDGET ORDINANCES FOR NEW HANOVER COUNTY AND THE SPECIAL FIRE DISTRICT Motion: Commissioner Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Mathews to adopt the FY 1995-96 Budget Ordinance for New Hanover County, which will increase the property tax by 2.5 cents per $100, and approve the FY 1995-96 Budget Ordinance for the New Hanover County Fire District as recommended by the County Manager. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS: Voting Aye: Commissioner Caster Commissioner Sisson Vice-Chairman Mathews Chairman Greer Voting Nay: Commissioner Barone Commissioner Barone stated, for the record, she voted in opposition because she could not support a tax increase for the next fiscal year. Copies of the Budget Ordinances are hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and are contained in Exhibit Book XXII, Page 27. ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION TO AUTHORIZE AND DIRECT THE COUNTY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO CONTRACTS WITH OUTSIDE AGENCY FUNDING APPROVED IN THE FY 1995-96 BUDGET Motion: Vice-Chairman Mathews MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Sisson to adopt the resolution to authorize and direct the County Manager to enter into funding contracts for the outside agencies as agreed upon in the Budget Review Session. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS: Voting Aye: Commissioner Caster Commissioner Sisson Vice-Chairman Mathews Chairman Greer Voting Nay: Commissioner Barone Commissioner Barone stated, for the record, she voted in opposi tion because she could not support an additional Nurse position for the main jail. MEETING CONVENED FROM REGULAR SESSION TO RECONVENE TO THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY WATER & SEWER DISTRICT Chairman Greer convened from Regular Session at 2:14 P.M. Chairman Greer reconvened to Regular Session at 2:21 P.M. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 19, 1995 BOOK 24 PAGE 768 ADDITIONAL ITEMS - COUNTY MANAGER Announcement of Systematic Assessment of License Performance for the Brunswick Nuclear Plant to be Held on July 10, 1995 County Manager O'Neal announced the Commissioners had been invited to attend the Systematic Assessment of License Performance for the Brunswick Nuclear Plant on July 10, 1995, at 1:00 P.M. in Room 100 of the plant. Approval of Budget Amendment #95-0237 - Blue Cross/Blue Shield Budget Director Griffin explained the County was self-insured; therefore, funding for the Blue Cross/Blue Shield Medical Plan was based upon its experience rate. She requested the Commissioners to approve a Budget Amendment in the amount of $800,000 to cover the shortfall that had been experienced over the past year. Commissioner Sisson strongly objected to the manner ln which health insurance companies were not promoting wellness nor using procedures to encourage people to stay healthy and avoid the use of medication. Finance Director, Bruce Shell, reported the N. C. Association of County Commissioners had contacted the County, and Staff was in the process of investigating a proposal which was less than the original quote from Blue Cross/Blue Shield. As the plan continues to develop, incentives for wellness and other items can be included. He advised that once the process was further along, a report would be forwarded to the Commissioners. Motion: Vice-Chairman Mathews MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Sisson to approve the following Budget Amendment. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Budget Amendment #95-0237 Debit Credit Commissioners' Office Appropriated Fund Balance $156,388 Non-Departmental Medical Insurance $310,591 Inspections Inspection Fees $ 59,125 Medical Insurance $ 59,125 Sheriff/Administration Medical Insurance $180,957 Sheriff/911 Center Medical Insurance $ 40,333 Sheriff/Jail Medical Insurance $96,084 Emerqency Manaqement Medical Insurance $ 5,088 Emerqency Medical Services Medical Insurance $ 61,765 Planninq Medical Insurance $ 9,025 Cooperative Extension Medical Insurance $ 2,112 Library Medical Insurance $ 33,853 NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 19, 1995 BOOK 24 PAGE 769 (Budget Amendment continued) Parks Medical Insurance $ 25,377 Museum Medical Insurance $ 12,385 Environmental Manaqement Fund Appropriated Fund Balance $ 78,407 Landfill Medical Insurance $ 10,532 Administration Medical Insurance $13,887 Recyclinq Medical Insurance $ 5,177 WASTEC/Administration Medical Insurance $ 37,774 WASTEC/Maintenance Medical Insurance $ 7,088 Water & Sewer District Appropriated Fund Balance $ 11,453 W&S Finance Medical Insurance $ 4,676 W&S Enqineerinq Medical Insurance $ 6,777 County Manager O'Neal complimented the Finance Director and Staff for the excellent preparing the FY 1995-96 Budget. Budget Director, job performed in ADDITIONAL ITEMS - COUNTY ATTORNEY Comments on House Bill 1060 County Attorney Copley reported Representative Daniel F. McComas had incorporated the Legal Department's suggested amendments to House Bill 1060 relative to debt service and the authority for the consolidated government to issue bonds. However, it now appears that Charlotte/Mecklenburg does not plan to pursue consolidation; therefore, the bill was amended to provide dissolution for a consolidated government if desired, and applies to counties with a population of less than 400,000. Comments on House Bill 478 Commissioner Sisson commented on the recent article ln the newspaper pertaining to the incorporation of Castle Hayne and expressed concern for persons in the Castle Hayne area not being aware of the costs involved with becoming a municipality. He reported this matter should be completely investigated before placing an issue of this significance on the ballot. He, also, expressed concern for not being contacted by the residents of Castle Hayne before the bill was introduced by Representative Edd Nye. Commissioner Sisson stated, in his opinion, many erroneous assumptions have been made with a lack of communication among the persons behind the bill. County Attorney Copley commented on being contacted by N. C. House Representative Thomas E. Wright as to whether the Commissioners were supportive of the bill, and reported she advised Representative Wright that she could not answer this question because she was not aware that a bill had been introduced. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 19, 1995 BOOK 24 PAGE 770 Consensus: After discussion, it was the consensus of the Board for the County Attorney to respond to Representative Wright and express the Board's opposition to the bill because of the following reasons: (1) concern for the residents not being aware of the responsibilities and costs involved with becoming a municipality; and (2) concern for incorporation of another town in New Hanover County during the consolidation effort. ADJOURNMENT Chairman Greer adjourned the meeting a 2:50 P.M. Respectfully submitted, Lucie F. Harrell Clerk to the Board