HomeMy WebLinkAbout1995-08-07 Regular Meeting
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING, AUGUST 7, 1995
BOOK 24
PAGE 849
ASSEMBLY
The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners met in Regular
Session on Monday, August 7, 1995, at 6:30 P.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
Clerk to the Board, Lucie F. Harrell, gave the invocation.
Commissioner Sisson 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 item was presented:
Ms. Joyce Binkley expressed concern for problems being
experienced with dogs and cats running freely in neighborhoods, and
she requested the Commissioners to approve the additional Animal
Control Officer position for better enforcement of the Animal
Control Ordinance.
APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA
Motion: Vice-Chairman Mathews MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner
Sisson to approve the Consent Agenda as presented. 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 did not have time to properly study the
items on the Consent Agenda.
Approval of Minutes
The Commissioners approved the minutes of the Regular Meeting
of July 5, 1995, and the minutes of the Consolidation Study
Commission meeting of July 18, 1995, as presented by the Clerk to
the Board.
Ratification of the Reappointment of John Keith to Serve as the
Extraterritorial Member of the Carolina Beach Planning and Zoning
Commission
The Commissioners ratified the reappointment of John Keith to
serve a three-term on the Carolina Beach Planning and Zoning
Commission as the extraterritorial member.
Acceptance of Report of Disposals of Personal Property
The Commissioners accepted the report on Disposals of Personal
Property in accordance with NCGS 160A-266(c) detailing sales under
this procedure for the period beginning January I, 1995, through
June 30, 1995.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING, AUGUST 7, 1995
BOOK 24
PAGE 850
Approval of New Family Planning Fees - New Hanover County Health
Department
The Commissioners approved the new Family Planning Fees as
adopted by the Board of Health because of changes in Medicaid rates
for services effective July 1, 1995.
Adoption of Resolution for the Sale of Surplus Property Owned
Jointly 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 and County with
acceptance of the following offer:
Parcel Number
R0054-10-023-007.000
R0054-10-023-010.000
Address
1103 Dawson Street
1107 Dawson Street
Amount of Offer
$1,200
$2,600
Tax Value: 1103 Dawson Street
1107 Dawson Street
$1,865
$2,364
Offerer:
New Covenant Holiness Church
1102 Dawson Street
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXII, Page 40.
Adoption of Resolution for the Sale of Surplus Property Owned
Jointly 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 and County with
acceptance of the following offer:
Parcel Number
054-13-009-011.000
Address
707 Meares Street
Amount of Offer
$1,500
Tax Value: 707 Meares Street
$2,376
Offerer:
Phillip & Gloria Fields
1019 S. 7th Street
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXII, Page 40.
Adoption of Resolution to Add Roads to the State Highway System
The Commissioners adopted a resolution to add roads in the
Dorsett Place Subdivision - Phase I.
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXII, Page 40.
Authorization for the Filing of a Grant Application for the
provision of Summer Programming for School-Age Youth - Cooperative
Extension
The Commissioners authorized Cooperative Extension to file a
grant application in the amount of $55,000 from North Carolina
State University to provide summer programming for school-age
youth.
Approval of Budget Amendment 96-06 - Sheriff's Department
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
96-06 - Federal Forfeited Property
Debit
Credit
Federal Forfeited Property
Federal Forfeited Property
Federal Forfeited Property
Supplies
$10,264
$10,264
Purpose: To budget additional revenue received. Federal Forfeited
Property funds are budgeted as received and must be used for law
endorsement activities as the Sheriff deems necessary.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING, AUGUST 7, 1995
BOOK 24
PAGE 851
Approval of Budget Amendment #96-0010 - Commissioners/Planning
Department
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
96-0010 Commissioners/Planning
Debit
Credit
County Commissioners
Appropriated Fund Balance
$8,780
Planninq
General Contract
$8,780
Purpose: To budget funds collected ln prlor years as repayments
for CDBG eligible activities.
Approval of Budget Amendment 96-0009 - Various Departments
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
Budget Amendment # 96-0009 Various Departments
Debit
Credit
County Commissioners' Office
Appropriated Fund Balance
$706,923
Property Manaqement
Other Improvements
$219,000
Enqineerinq
Building
$ 19,000
Sheriff's Department
Other Improvements
$ 33,023
Planninq
Contracted Services
$ 30,000
Health Department/Administration
Other Improvements
$ 52,900
Cape Fear Community Colleqe
Land Cost
$110,000
Library
Maintenance & Repair/Building & Grounds $ 64,000
Parks
Other Improvements $179,000
Environmental Manaqement Fund
Appropriated Fund Balance $165,128
WASTEC/Maintenance
Maintenance & Repair/Equipment $165,128
Water & Sewer Fund
Appropriated Fund Balance $120,000
Water & Sewer Enqineerinq
Contracted Services $120,000
Purpose: To rollover the following expenditures from FY 1994-95
to FY 1995-96:
(1) Property Management - for renovations to County Administration
Building and replacement of Library Roof.
(2) Engineering - for expenditures related to new 800 MHZ tower.
(3) Sheriff/911 Center - for 911 Center renovations.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING, AUGUST 7, 1995
BOOK 24
PAGE 852
(4) Planning - for completion of water quality study and software
upgrades for ARC Information package that runs on GIS work
stations. This will allow more people to use the system.
(5) Health Department for renovations to Health Department
building, including a ramp.
(6) Cape Fear Community College - for land acquisition which was
approved by the Board of County Commissioners in FY 1994-95.
(7) Library - for replacing the carpet.
(8) Parks - for Ogden and Castle Hayne park projects, which were
started later than anticipated.
(9) Environmental Management Fund - for carryover of contracts
approved by the Board in FY 1994-95 that were not executed
prior to June 30, 1995.
(10) Water & Sewer Fund - for Water & Sewer Ground Water Study.
Approval of Budget Amendment 96-0012 - Various Departments
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
96-0012 - Various Departments
Sheriff/911
Departmental Supplies
Debit Credit
$831,521
$ 3,384
$ 8,853
$ 812
$ 2,359
$ 16,047
$ 13,390
$ 49,838
$370,408
$ 1,335
$ 2,130
$ 9,980
$ 14,036
$ 10,311
$ 8,055
$129,026
$ 12,500
County Commissioners' Office
Appropriated Fund Balance
County Manaqer
Departmental Supplies
Capital Outlay - Equipment
Finance Department
Departmental Supplies
Capital Outlay - Equipment
MIS
Contracted Services
Departmental Supplies
Capital Outlay - Equipment
Tax
Contracted Services
Reqister of Deeds
Departmental Supplies
Capital Outlay - Equipment
Property Manaqement
M&R Buildings & Grounds
Other Improvements
Enqineerinq
Building
Sheriff/Administration
Uniforms
Motor Vehicle Purchases
EMS
M&R Auto & Trucks
$ 5,784
Courts
Capital Outlay - Equipment
$ 28,057
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING, AUGUST 7, 1995
(Budget Amendment #96-0012 continued)
Inspections
Contracted Services
Planninq
General Contractor
Capital Outlay - Equipment
Cooperative Extension
Other Improvements
Health/Environmental
Capital Outlay - Equipment
Health/Vector Control
Departmental Supplies
Health/Animal Control
Departmental Supplies
Social Services/Administration
Departmental Supplies
Capital Outlay - Equipment
Motor Vehicles Purchases
Human Services Transportation System
Motor Vehicle Purchases
Museum
Departmental Supplies
Capital Outlay - Equipment
Environmental Manaqement
Appropriated Fund Balance
WASTEC/Maintenance
M&R Buildings & Grounds
M&R Equipment
M&R Auto & Trucks
Landfill
Contracted Services
Water & Sewer
Appropriated Fund Balance
Water & Sewer Enqineerinq
Motor Vehicle Purchases
M&R Equipment
BOOK 24
PAGE 853
Debit Credit
$ 8,059
$ 4,999
$ 3,437
$ 2,115
$ 3,549
$ 1,288
$ 6,129
$ 219
$ 12,388
$ 14,798
$ 84,267
$ 436
$ 3,532
$99,761
$ 2,774
$ 26,150
$ 6,725
$ 64,112
$32,827
$ 23,730
$ 9,097
Purpose: To budget appropriated fund balance for outstanding
purchase orders as of June 30, 1995. The purchase order 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.
ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION TO SUPPORT THE CONTINUATION OF PUBLIC WORKS
PROJECTS PERFORMED BY THE U. S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS
Chairman Greer reported an amended resolution had been
prepared as requested by the Board on July 17, 1995, and he
requested a motion to adopt the resolution as rewritten to urge the
continuation of public works projects by the U. S. Army Corps of
Engineers.
Motion: Commissioner Sisson MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman
Mathews to adopt the resolution as presented. Upon vote, the
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING, AUGUST 7, 1995
BOOK 24
PAGE 854
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXII, Page 40.
WITHDRAWAL OF ITEM 2, CONSIDERATION OF AN AMENDMENT TO THE COUNTY
POLICY RELATED TO REQUIREMENTS FOR INITIAL PAYMENT TO CONTRACTORS
Chairman Greer announced this item had been withdrawn by the
County Manager.
REPORT ON THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES (DSS) BUILDING
EXPANSION
Deputy County Manager, Andrew J. Atkinson, reported bids were
received for the DSS building expansion project on June 21, 1995.
The cumulative total of the three prime contract bids exceeded the
budget by $198,450. Following several meetings with the Architect
and DSS representatives, it was determined that in order to bring
costs down significantly and meet the current needs of the
Department of Social Services, it was decided to shell in 4,000
square feet with the provision of a roof and exterior wall to
protect the structure from weather. The unfinished area is to be
finished as needed by the Department of Social Services.
Due to the significant spread between the bids, Staff is
requesting the following action: (1) rej ection of all general
construction bids; (2) authorize Staff to re-bid the general
construction work with an alternative bid to complete the
unfinished area; and (3) negotiate with the Electrical and HVAC
contractors with the negotiated price being approved by the Board
of County Commissioners.
Commissioner Barone stated, for the record, she and
Commissioner Caster were members of the Building Committee and they
had recommended leaving the back area of the DSS expanSlon
unfinished in an effort to keep the cost at a minimum. At that
time, she was told by the newly hired Project Engineer, George
Shaw, that leaving an unfinished shell would not be acceptable
because of weather damage to the structure. Concern was expressed
for now being told that an unfinished area would be acceptable.
Discussion was held on the budget for the DSS expansion.
Deputy County Manager Atkinson reported the project cost was $1.2
million with funds appropriated in the FY 1995-96 Budget to pay the
installment debt service. The County would pay for the project
up front and receive reimbursement for the project over the life of
the building through depreciation. Also, 50% of the interest paid
on the building annually would be reimbursed to the County at the
end of each year.
Commissioner Barone advised the Building Committee was
informed the expansion would be paid back over a five-year period,
and she inquired as to whether this had changed?
Deputy County Manager Atkinson responded the County would not
be reimbursed for the cost of the building over a five-year period;
however, the County would be reimbursed 50% of the interest costs
over a five-year period. The cost of the building would be
depreciated over the life of the building with reimbursement on an
monthly basis.
Commissioner Barone responded the Building Committee was
misinformed. The Committee was informed the money had to be paid
up front with 50% of the funds reimbursed over a five-year period.
Motion: After discussion of the N. C. Department of Human
Resources being satisfied with the plan, Vice-Chairman Mathews
MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Sisson to reject the general
constructions bids received; authorize Staff to re-bid the general
construction work with an alternate bid to complete the unfinished
area; and negotiate a price with the Electrical and HVAC
contractors with the negotiated price being approved by the Board
of Commissioners. The floor was opened for discussion.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING, AUGUST 7, 1995
BOOK 24
PAGE 855
Discussion was
contractors outside
Shaw, reported the
bidders from other
submitted.
held on trying to receive bid proposals from
the area and state. Project Engineer, George
archi tect, John Sawyer had tried to obtain
areas; however, no bid proposals had been
Commissioner Barone asked Mr. Shaw if he remembered when they
were walking through the DSS building and she suggested leaving the
back portion of the building unfinished? She advised at that time
Mr. Shaw became quite upset and informed her that due to the high
humidi ty and other problems, an unfinished structure would be
damaged from weather conditions. She expressed concern for being
told now that this idea was acceptable, and she requested Mr. Shaw
to comment.
Project Engineer, George Shaw, responded he did not recall
that conversation.
Commissioner Barone strongly objected to the response by Mr.
Shaw and reported he must have some form of memory lapse.
After discussion of having the option to complete the entire
building or leave a portion unfinished, Chairman Greer called for
a vote on the MOTION to reject the bids received, re-bid the
construction work with a request for an alternate bid to complete
the unfinished area; and negotiate with Electrical and HVAC
contractors with the final negotiated price being approved by the
Board of County Commissioners. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
ADDITIONAL ITEMS - COUNTY MANAGER
Due to being ahead of schedule, the Board decided to discuss
additional items.
Employee Appreciation Day Scheduled for October 19, 1995
County Manager O'Neal requested the Board to schedule a date
for Employee Appreciation Day.
Consensus: After discussion, it was the consensus of the Board to
schedule" Employee Appreciation Day" on Thursday, October 19, 1995,
at Hugh MacRae Park from 11:00 A.M. until 2:00 P.M.
Discussion of Dates for Scheduling Public Forums on Consolidation
County Manager O'Neal advised he was working with the City
Manager to select appropriate dates to schedule the three public
forums to be held to answer questions on the consolidation issue.
He reported once tentative dates had been selected, he would notify
the Board.
Commissioner Barone reported the City had suggested televising
the forums in the northern and southern end of the County with the
tapes being re-broadcast on the City's Government Access Channel.
She requested the County Manager to check into this matter.
County Manager O'Neal responded he would be glad to check into
this matter and report back to the Board.
Commissioner Barone commented on receiving calls from persons
in opposition to consolidation and reported these citizens feel the
same amount of money spent on the promotion of consolidation should
be set aside in a separate account for persons to use in opposing
consolidation. She stated, in her opinion, these citizens want a
third choice, which is neither annexation or consolidation.
County Manager O'Neal reported a factual question and answer
brochure was being prepared on consolidation; however, the brochure
would not promote the issue. He assured the Board that Staff would
carefully prepare the brochure in an objective manner.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING, AUGUST 7, 1995
BOOK 24
PAGE 856
Work Session Scheduled for August 31, 1995
County Manager O'Neal requested scheduling a Work Session to
hear a presentation from the MIS Director about the County's
response to new State regulations governing public access of
computer data.
Consensus: It was the consensus of the Board to schedule a Work
Session on Thursday, August 31, 1995, at 10:15 A.M. in Conference
Room 501 of the New Hanover County Administration Building.
Acceptance of Grant Award from the Victims of Crime Act Governor's
Crime Commission and Approval of Budget Amendment #96-0016
Deputy County Manager, Andrew J. Atkinson, reported New
Hanover County had been awarded a grant in the amount of $55,947
for pass-through to Coastal Horizons for child sexual abuse
treatment. The grant does not require a County match.
Commissioner Barone inquired as to whether any County
employees, buildings, insurance, or billings would be involved with
the grant award?
Deputy County Manager Atkinson responded the only County
assistance would be given through an expenditure of funds for the
County's audit report.
Motion: Commissioner Barone MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Sisson
to accept the grant award in the amount of $55,947, authorize the
County Manager to sign as the authorizing official, and approve the
associated Budget Amendment as listed below. Upon vote, the MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Budget Amendment #96-0016 - Human Services (Flow Through Grant)
Debit
Credit
Human Services
Victim's Assistance
$55,947
Human Services
Victim's Assistance
$55,947
Purpose: To establish budget for Child Sexual Abuse Treatment
grant awarded to Coastal Horizons. The grant will flow through the
County.
Approval of Contract #96-0046 with BPA Environmental & Engineering,
Inc.
Assistant County Manager, Dave Weaver, reported the
Groundwater Task Force had reviewed the qualifications of twelve
groundwater consulting firms. After a review of four firms, the
Task Force recommends that New Hanover County enter into a contract
with BPA, Inc. for Phase I of the study at a cost of $43,145. This
phase will provide for existing data acquisition and analysis,
modeling, and recommendations for well field development and
protection. The following funding commitments have been received
for the three phases of the study:
New Hanover County Water & Sewer District
City of Wilmington
Town of Wrightsville Beach
$120,000
$ 10,000
$ 9,000
The Commissioners were requested to approve the contract with
BPA, Inc.
Vice-Chairman Mathews inquired as to when the first phase
would be completed?
Assistant County Manager Weaver responded within twelve (12)
weeks after the effective date of the contract.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING, AUGUST 7, 1995
BOOK 24
PAGE 857
Motion: Commissioner Sisson MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Caster
to approve the contract with BPA, Inc. in the amount of $43,145 to
perform Phase I of the groundwater study. The Chairman was
authorized to execute the necessary contract documents. Upon vote,
the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
A copy of the contract is on file in the Legal Department.
APPROVAL OF INCREASING ANIMAL CONTROL FEES
Health Director, Robert E. Parker, reported on June 7, 1995,
the Board of Health adopted fee changes in the Animal Control fees.
The purpose for increasing the fees was to provide a deterrent for
repeat offenders of the Animal Control Ordinance. The
Commissioners were requested to approve the Civil Citation fees as
recommended by the Board of Health.
Commissioner Barone stated, for the record, animal control was
not an animal problem, but a people problem.
Motion: Commissioner Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Sisson
to approve the changes in the Animal Control fees as recommended by
the Board of Health. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS:
Voting Aye: Commissioner Caster
Commissioner Sisson
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Chairman Greer
Voting Nay: Commissioner Barone
DENIAL OF A REQUEST FOR A NEW ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER POSITION
Health Director, Robert Parker, reported on July 5, 1995, the
Board of Health voted to request a new Animal Control Officer
position at a salary of $27,601. Due to the number of dog bites,
one Animal Control Officer position spends a majority of time
dealing with compliance to the State Dangerous Dog Act. During the
last five years, the County's population has increased 12% with
animal bites increasing 36% and Animal Control Officer positions
decreasing by 33%. With continued growth in population, a new
Animal Control Officer position is needed to enforce the Animal
Control Ordinance. No additional County funds will be required
because the new fee increases will cover the cost of the position.
A lengthy discussion was held on the importance of having
coverage over the weekends because of increased activities, and the
number of calls received relative to problems with dogs and cats
running loose in neighborhoods. Vice-Chairman Mathews commented on
being informed that staggered schedules were not being used over
the weekends, and he asked if this was true?
Ms. Jean McNeil, the Field Supervisor of the Animal Control
Center, responded there was a vacant Animal Control Officer
position with interviews being held last week to fill that vacancy.
Due to this vacancy, all Animal Control Officers were scheduled to
work the regular five-day work week in order to handle incoming
calls. An Animal Control Officer is assigned on-call duty during
the weekends to respond only to dog bites or dangerous dog calls.
Until the vacancy occurred, the 11:30 A.M. until 8:00 P.M. shift of
four out of five days was used with Wednesday off and a regular
work day on either Saturday or Sunday. Once the vacant Animal
Control Officer position is filled and if the new position is
approved, the Animal Control Center should be able to provide
coverage for seven days a week.
Commissioner Barone commented on a budget request by the
Health Department for an additional Animal Control Officer position
during the budgetary process and reported the County Manager and
professional Staff did recommend approval of the position in the FY
1995-96 Budget. She stated, in her opinion, it would be difficult
for the Board to approve an additional position when the County
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING, AUGUST 7, 1995
BOOK 24
PAGE 858
Manager did not support the additional position in the budget, nor
did he recommend approval of the position being considered tonight.
She reported the Commissioners were informed numerous times that
the reason for the new Animal Control Center going over the
construction budget by approximately $400,000 was because of the
need to design a less labor intensive facility which would require
less personnel and allow more officers to perform field work.
Based upon these facts, the Commissioners approved the additional
funding. In her opinion, many County departments did not receive
new positions requested in the FY 1995-96 Budget, the County
Manager did not and has not recommended funding of a new Animal
Control Officer position, and the facility should be opened for at
least a year to see if some current personnel can be utilized in
the field before approving a new position. If the additional
position is needed at the end of the year, the position should be
requested through the normal budget process for FY 1996-97.
Commissioner Caster agreed with Commissioner Barone and
reported he felt the position should be requested through the
normal budgetary process.
Chairman Greer reported for clarification of the record the
Board of Health had requested the Health Director to request
another Animal Control Officer position.
Discussion was held on the use of a temporary person to assist
with processing the backlog of paper work. Ms. McNeil responded a
part-time temporary clerk from the Department of Human Resources
had worked three weeks in July and was scheduled to work a few more
weeks in August. Currently, the paper work has been processed
through April.
A lengthy discussion was held on the need to asslgn Animal
Control Officers to work over the weekends. Commissioner Sisson
reported on an incident that occurred with his wife where the
officer on-call would not respond to her call because she had not
been bitten by the dog. In this type of situation, the only
alternative would be to call the 911 Center, which places the
burden on the Sheriff's Department. He expressed concern for a
lack of response to calls of this type over weekends when there is
increased outside activity, and he recommended some form of
Saturday and Sunday coverage. After further discussion, it was
concluded that some coverage should be provided over weekends
through the staggering of shifts.
Health Director Parker explained that when the office is open
during the week, all calls are received in the office and relayed
directly to the Animal Control Officers in the field with quick
responses. On weekends, the officer on patrol receives the calls
through 911, which is a much less productive system. He reported
he would be glad to provide Saturday and Sunday coverage through
the staggering of shifts. Also, he would work with the 911 Center
in implementing a system that would refer the calls directly to the
Animal Control Officer in the field as well as develop a program to
educate the community on how to properly register a complaint with
the 911 Center over the weekends.
Motion: After discussion of the rapid growth in the County,
Commissioner Sisson MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Mathews to
approve the request for a new Animal Control Officer and approve
the associated Budget Amendment. Upon vote, the MOTION DID NOT
CARRY AS FOLLOWS and the request for the new position was DENIED:
Voting Aye: Commissioner Sisson
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Voting Nay: Commissioner Barone
Commissioner Caster
Chairman Greer
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING, AUGUST 7, 1995
BOOK 24
PAGE 859
BREAK
Chairman Greer called a break from 7:55 P.M. until 8:06 P.M.
ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION OF INTENT TO CLOSE THE NORTHERN SEGMENT OF
NASSAU ROAD IN SEDGEFIELD DEVELOPMENT NEAR THE 2200 BLOCK OF CASTLE
HAYNE ROAD
Planning Director, Dexter Hayes, reported a petition had been
submitted by Ms. Patty Benjamin to close Nassau Road located 1,000
feet east of the Castle Hayne Road and the Jamaica Drive
intersection. The Planning Staff recommends adoption of the
Resolution of Intent; however, the Engineering Staff has expressed
an interest in retaining a 30-foot utility easement.
Motion: Commissioner Barone MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Caster
to adopt a Resolution of Intent to hold a Public Hearing on
September 5, 1995, at 7:30 P.M. to consider the request to close a
segment of Nassau Road. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXII, Page 40.
PUBLIC HEARING TO SOLICIT PROPOSALS FOR THE NORTH CAROLINA CITIES
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM
Chairman Greer opened the Public Hearing and inquired as to
whether anyone present would like to comment.
Staff Planner, Wanda Coston, reported the County was in the
process of applying for a Community Development Block Grant under
the Economic Development category. She reported a proposal had
been submitted by a small business and if the project was accepted
and the grant awarded, the County would use the funds to provide
sewer to the business.
Ms. Coston requested Mr. Robert Dunn, Executive Director of
the Committee of 100, to comment on the proposal.
Mr. Robert Dunn, Executive Director of the Committee of 100,
advised the Board that New Hanover County was eligible to apply to
receive grant funds for an economic development project that would
create jobs targeted to assist low-to-moderate income persons. He
requested the Commissioners to approve the filing of a Community
Development Block grant to fund a sewer extension to the business
site. The company in exchange would agree that 60% of the
employees hired would be low-to-moderate income persons. A portion
of the money could be used as a loan, and the State of North
Carolina Commerce Finance Office, which is nationally recognized
for its conservative approach, would oversee the funds. The loan
would be secured through a bank with the credit of the company
being thoroughly checked to ensure that no liability is incurred by
New Hanover County. The Commissioners were requested to authorize
the filing of the grant application.
There being no further comments, Chairman Greer closed the
Public Hearing.
Motion: Commissioner Barone MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Caster
to authorize the County to file the Community Block Development
grant application for the project submitted by the Committee of
100. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER A REQUEST BY RAIFORD TRASK, JR. TO
REZONE 29 ACRES ON THE EAST SIDE OF MILITARY CUT-OFF ROAD NORTH OF
LANDFALL FROM R-15 RESIDENTIAL TO O-I OFFICE AND INSTITUTION
Chairman Greer opened the Public Hearing.
Planning Director Hayes reported the Planning Board voted four
to one to recommend approval of the rezoning with the following
modification:
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING, AUGUST 7, 1995
BOOK 24
PAGE 860
"A 200 foot strip of land along the southern property line of
the County library site would be zoned O-I."
The member of the Planning Board in opposition to the request
felt that rezoning the site would be contrary to the policies of
the Land Use Plan and would set a precedent for similar requests
along Military Cut-Off Road. Further discussion was held by the
Planning Board with the conclusion that commercial expansion should
be held at the library site.
Planning Director Hayes reported the widening
Cut-Off Road project was placed on the 1996-2002
Transportation Improvements Program at $4.5
construction to begin in 2002.
of the Military
North Carolina
million with
Discussion was held on whether funds could be removed for the
widening of Military Cut-Off Road ln future years. Planning
Director Hayes reported once a project was included in the
Transportation Improvements Program, it was a funded program;
however, the project could be postponed annually at the discretion
of the Governor.
vice-Chairman Mathews expressed concern for additional curb
cuts where service roads could be installed in this type of
project, and he inquired as to whether a service road could be
required along the Military Cut-Off Road?
Planning Director Hayes responded the only way to control
installation of a service road is through a site review process
which requires a site plan. He reported after a recent discussion
with the local N. C. Department of Transportation Office, it
appears that turn lanes will be required as a condition of the
driveway permitting process along the Military Cut-Off Road.
Chairman Greer inquired as to whether anyone from the general
public would like to comment.
No comments were received.
Chairman Greer closed the Public Hearing.
Commissioner Sisson expressed concern for approving additional
commercial uses in an already congested traffic area when Military
Cut-Off Road will not be widened until the year 2002. He also
expressed concern for the negative impact on drainage in this area
wi th additional development, and he recommended requesting the
peti tioner to apply for a conditional use zoning which would
require a site plan and allow the County to have more control over
the business uses and drainage plan.
Chairman Greer reminded Commissioner Sisson of the Special
Highway Overlay District, which provides protection for the site,
and reported, in his opinion, installing a service road on this
piece of property would not be practical.
Commissioner Caster reported after recent conversations with
real estate persons, it appears there is a need for additional
commercial uses in this area. Also, after driving around the site,
he does not feel the property is suited for residential development
because of surrounding business uses.
Motion: Commissioner Barone MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Caster
to approve the rezoning as recommended by the Planning Board, which
includes no further commercial expansion beyond the County's
library site.
Substitute Motion: Vice-Chairman Mathews MOVED, SECONDED by
Commissioner Sisson to request the petitioner to submit a
conditional use application with some form of controlled access,
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING, AUGUST 7, 1995
BOOK 24
PAGE 861
whether a service road, turn lane, or consolidated driveway. Upon
vote, the MOTION DID NOT CARRY AS FOLLOWS:
Voting Aye: Commissioner Sisson
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Voting Nay: Commissioner Barone
Commissioner Caster
Chairman Greer
Chairman Greer called for a vote on the ORIGINAL MOTION which
was to approve the Planning Board's recommendation with the library
site being the point where commercial development should be held.
Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS:
Voting Aye: Commissioner Barone
Commissioner Caster
Chairman Greer
Voting Nay: Commissioner Sisson
Vice-Chairman Mathews
A copy of "AN ORDINANCE OF THE COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER AMENDING
THE ZONING MAP OF ZONING AREA NO. 2 OF NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NORTH
CAROLINA ADOPTED JULY 1, 1985" is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Zoning Book I, Section 2, Page 36.
PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER A REQUEST BY H. PHILLIPS TO REZONE 1.64
ACRES AT 6201 AND 6205 MARKET STREET TO B-2 BUSINESS FROM I-1 LIGHT
INDUSTRIAL
Chairman Greer opened the Public Hearing.
Planning Director, Dexter Hayes, reported there was very
little discussion about the B-2 Business rezoning request by the
Planning Board. It was felt the rezoning would have very little
impact on the area, and the Planning Board voted unanimously to
approve the request.
Chairman Greer inquired as to whether anyone from the general
public would like to comment.
The following person commented:
Mr. H. A. Phillips, the petitioner, reported he operated a
animal clinic on Market Street and that in order to extend the
runs, it was necessary to request rezoning the property from I-I
Light Industrial to B-1 Business. He requested the Commissioners
to approve the petition as recommended by the Planning Board.
Chairman Greer closed the Public Hearing.
Motion: Commissioner Barone MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Caster
to approve rezoning 1.64 acres at 6201 and 6206 Market Street to B-
2 Business from I-I Light Industrial. Upon vote, the MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
A copy of "AN ORDINANCE OF THE COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER AMENDING
THE ZONING MAP OF ZONING AREA NO. 6 OF NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NORTH
CAROLINA, ADOPTED AUGUST 18, 1971," is hereby incorporated as a
part of the minutes and is contained in Zoning Book I, Section 6,
Page 62.
PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER A REQUEST BY LIVE OAK DEVELOPMENT
COMPANY TO REZONE 7.2 ACRES ON THE NORTHWEST SIDE OF MARKET STREET
(8100 BLOCK) TO B-1 BUSINESS FROM R-15 RESIDENTIAL
Chairman Greer opened the Public Hearing.
Planning Director, Dexter Hayes, presented a corrected map and
reported the Planning Board voted four to one to recommend a
modified version of the applicant's original petition. In an
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING, AUGUST 7, 1995
BOOK 24
PAGE 862
effort to compromise concerns by the applicant about site design
standards that were imposed because of the Special Highway Overlay
District, the Planning Board decided to rezone only that portion of
the site that was needed to accommodate the shopping center and
provide a uniform depth of 880 feet parallel with Market Street.
This would leave the balance of the site zoned R-15.
Chairman Greer inquired as to whether anyone present would
like to comment.
No comments were received.
Chairman Greer closed the Public Hearing.
Commissioner Sisson commented on the modified version of the
petition and inquired as to whether the access concerns had been
met?
Planning Director Hayes responded most of the concerns had
been met with the revised plan. Staff felt that if a commercial
node was developed in this area, the revised plan would better
accommodate the commercial activity. A small service road will
extend straight across from Porters Neck Road to provide access to
some of the properties. If additional requests are made north of
this point, it is hoped the Board will try to restrict commercial
activity to the southern part of the Market Street area at the
Porters Neck intersection.
Motion: Commissioner Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Barone
to approve the rezoning request as modified by the Planning Board.
Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
A copy of "AN ORDINANCE OF THE COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER AMENDING
THE ZONING MAP OF ZONING AREA NO. 5 OF NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NORTH
CAROLINA ADOPTED JULY 6,1971," is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Zoning Book I, Section 5, Page 27.
PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER AN EXEMPTION FOR MANUFACTURED HOMES IN
EXISTING MANUFACTURED HOME PARKS AS DEFINED IN THE ORDINANCE FROM
THE ADDITIONAL TWO FOOT ELEVATION REQUIREMENT AND RELATED REVISIONS
Chairman Greer opened the Public Hearing.
Planning Director, Dexter Hayes, reported the proposed Text
Amendment was approved at the last meeting; however, a Public
Hearing was not advertised. Because of State regulations, the
regulations cannot become effective until thirty days after the
advertisement, which would be an effective date of September 1,
1995. Also, the State of North Carolina and Federal Emergency
Management Agency (FEMA) must approve the regulations. After
review by the State, the Text Amendment has been slightly modified,
and a revised copy was presented to the Commissioners for approval.
Chairman Greer inquired as to whether anyone from the general
public would like to comment.
No comments were received.
Chairman Greer closed the Public Hearing.
Motion: Commissioner Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Barone
to approve the Text Amendment as revised by the State to become
effective September 1, 1995, contingent upon a favorable report
from FEMA. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
A copy of the Text Amendment is hereby incorporated as a part
of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXII, Page 40.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING, AUGUST 7, 1995
BOOK 24
PAGE 863
PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER NAMING AND ASSIGNING HOUSE NUMBERS TO A
PRIVATE ROAD 1,600 FEET WEST OF THE SONDEY ROAD/CASTLE HAYNE ROAD
INTERSECTION ON THE SOUTHSIDE OF SONDEY ROAD
Chairman Greer opened the Public Hearing.
Planning Director, Dexter Hayes, reported the unimproved and
unnamed private road was located off the 3700 block of Sondey Road
in Castle Hayne, N. C. The property owners adjoining the road have
agreed to Mazur Drive as the name for the street. House numbers
will be assigned based on the County's numbering grid system. The
effective date of the change is tentatively scheduled for October
13, 1995, and the County will be responsible for installing a
street sign, if approved.
Chairman Greer inquired as to whether anyone from the general
public would like to comment.
No comments were received.
Chairman Greer closed the Public Hearing.
Motion: Commissioner Barone MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Caster
to approve naming the private road to Mazur Drive and authorize
Staff to assign house numbers effective October 13, 1995. Upon
vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
MEETING CONVENED FROM REGULAR SESSION TO HOLD A REGULAR MEETING OF
THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY WATER & SEWER DISTRICT
Chairman Greer convened from Regular Session at 8: 50 P.M.
until 8:55 P.M. to hold a regular meeting of the Water & Sewer
District.
ADDITIONAL ITEMS - COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Authorization for the County Attorney to Request Judges to Assign
Community Service Work to Repeat Offenders of the Animal Control
Ordinance
Commissioner Sisson commented on the need to keep people from
being multiple offenders of the Animal Control Ordinance and
reported after discussion with the County Attorney, he would like
to implement an ordinance that would require a triple offender to
serve time, not in jail, but in the provision of community service,
such as cleaning out cages in the Animal Control Shelter.
County Attorney Copley read the following portion of Section
3-23 of the New Hanover County Code, and reported violation of the
Animal Control Ordinance is a misdemeanor by law:
"Pursuant to State Law it is a misdemeanor punishable by a
fine not to exceed $500 or imprisonment not to exceed 30 days
to violate any provisions of this chapter unless otherwise
provided herein."
County Attorney Copley advised that the Animal Control
Director or an Animal Control Officer could swear out a criminal
warrant with prosecution by the District Attorney's office.
Consensus: After discussion of an offender never serving a day in
jail under intermediate sentencing, it was the consensus of the
Board for the County Attorney to write a letter to the Judges
requesting that multiple offenders be charged a $500 fine and
consideration be given to assigning community service work, such as
cleaning out the cages at the Animal Control Shelter.
Authorization to Proceed with Hiring of an Fire Administrator
Commissioner Sisson requested authorization to formulate a
Search Committee for hiring a Fire Administrator position as
approved by the Consolidation Study Commission.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING, AUGUST 7, 1995
BOOK 24
PAGE 864
Motion: Commissioner Sisson MOVED,
Mathews to proceed with formulating a
County Fire Administrator position.
discussion.
SECONDED by Vice-Chairman
Search Committee to hire a
The floor was opened for
Commissioner Barone expressed concern for an Administrative
position by itself, but stated if the position was to be an
Assistant Fire Chief, she would support the idea.
Commissioner Sisson responded the position would be considered
as an Assistant Fire Chief.
Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Discussion of Drainage Problems on Kelly Road
Commissioner Caster inquired as to whether the Kelly Road
drainage problems had been resolved?
Assistant County Manager, Dave Weaver, advised that drainage
had become a problem in this area because the underground drainage
pipes were too small to handle large amounts of rainfall from
severe storms. The Mosquito Control Division of the Health
Department has been considering cleaning out the ditch running up
to Beasley Road behind the houses on the west side of Kelly Road.
He advised if the ditch is cleaned out, the immediate drainage
problem should be alleviated, but the problem would not be
resolved.
Discussion was held on the current drainage requirements for
subdivisions and the need for the County to implement a drainage
plan. It was generally concluded that regardless of whether
consolidation is approved or disapproved by the voters in October,
the County will have to move forward with some type of drainage
plan.
Commissioner Sisson recommended implementing a policy that
would require the same size of drainage pipes for new subdivisions
where one subdivision connects to another subdivision. He reported
this type of policy could be adopted and enforced by the
Engineering Department.
ADJOURNMENT
Chairman Greer adjourned the meeting at 9:01 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
Lucie F. Harrell
Clerk to the Board