1996-12-16 Regular Meeting
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 16, 1996
BOOK 25
PAGE 717
ASSEMBLY
The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners met in Regular
Session on Monday, December 16, 1996, 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 Buzz Birzenieks; Ted
Davis, Jr.; Charles R. Howell; Vice-Chairman William A. Caster;
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 TO THE FLAG
Reverend Bo Baker, Pastor of the Pentecostals of Wilmington,
gave the invocation.
Vice-Chairman Caster led the audience ln the Pledge of
Allegiance to the Flag.
NON-AGENDA ITEMS
Chairman Greer announced that three minutes had been reserved
to allow anyone from the public to introduce an item not listed on
the Regular Agenda or comment on an item listed on the Consent
Agenda. He requested all persons speaking to limit their remarks
to three minutes.
The following items were presented:
FUNDING REQUEST BY DARE FOR DOWNTOWN 20/20 VISION PROJECT IN
CORRELATION WITH THE CAPE FEAR RIVER CORRIDOR STUDY
Mr. Greg pittillo, Manager of Carolina Power & Light Eastern
Regional Office and President of Wilmington Industrial Development,
Inc., reported he was speaking on behalf of DARE regarding the Cape
Fear River Corridor Study and the associated 20/20 Vision Project
for downtown Wilmington. The purpose of both studies is to produce
a Master Plan for the Cape Fear River Corridor and the downtown
area. The Cape Fear River Corridor Study will address economic
development in uses of the Cape Fear River from the New
Hanover /pender County line to Southport. The study will cost
approximately $125,000 and has been fully funded through grants and
contributions in the amount of $15,000 each from Brunswick County,
New Hanover County, and the City of Wilmington.
The second portion of the study is the 20/20 Vision Project
which will focus on downtown Wilmington from City Limit to City
Limit moving down the Cape Fear River and from the waterfront over
to 23rd Street. The study will place particular emphasis on the
area between the two main bridges on the river and the immediate
downtown Wilmington area. An extensive review will occur on the
overall revitalization of the downtown area through appropriate
development such as office buildings, condominiums, marinas, and a
convention center. The 20/20 Vision Proj ect will be performed
concurrently with the Cape Fear River Corridor Study at a cost of
$80,000. DARE was charged with securing funding for the project.
The City of Wilmington has contributed an additional $10,000 and
securedith banks, an additional $20,000 has been raised, and
Carolina Power & Light Company contributed an additional $25,000.
It is felt that DARE can raise another $5,000. The total funding
commitments are $70,000, and the Commissioners are being requested
to fund an additional $10,000 so the 20/20 Vision Project will be
funded.
Vice-Chairman Caster commented on attending the first elected
officials briefing and reported the map placed before the
Commissioners outlined the 20/20 Vision Project and the entire Cape
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 16, 1996
BOOK 25
PAGE 718
Fear River Corridor Study with designated time frames for
completion of both studies.
Consensus: After discussion of the consulting firms performing the
study and the need for the new members of the Board to have time to
review the plan and funding request, it was the consensus of the
Board to place this item on the agenda for January 6, 1997.
DISCUSSION OF STREET LAMPS FOR CASTLE LAKES SUBDIVISION
Ms. Kathy Dombroski, a resident of 204 Ronald Avenue, Castle
Hayne, N. C., reported the Castle Lakes Subdivision had been trying
to secure street lamps in the community since 1993. Problems have
been experienced with crime and emergency responses because of not
being able to see house numbers. After numerous discussions with
Carolina Power & Light (CP&L) officials, it was found that the
North Carolina Utilities Commission requires 100% of the residents
to sign a petition before street lamps can be provided to a
subdivision. One resident has refused to sign the petition since
1993 and will never agree to executing the document. After
discussion with State Senators and researching the provision of
similar services by other counties, it was found that Orange County
has provided services of this type to small communities.
Ms. Dombroski requested the Board to appoint a research
committee to provide direction on how the residents can secure low-
cost street lamps. The residents are aware that individual lamps
can be purchased from CP&L; however, this could be cost prohibitive
for some residents, and it is felt that purchasing street lamps as
a group would be more affordable.
Chairman Greer recommended requesting Staff to reVlew the
issue to see if the County can be of any assistance.
County Attorney Copley commented on meeting with Ms. Dombroski
ln 1993 and reported 100% of the residents must sign the petition;
therefore, the County has no choice but to abide by the State
Statute. Since the General Assembly will be convening in January,
the County may desire to request the legislators to amend the
Statute to reduce the 100% participation requirement.
Ms. Dombroski responded this avenue had been approached;
however, the Utilities Commission was not interested in reducing
the participation percentage.
Consensus: After further discussion, it was the consensus of the
Board for the County Attorney to research the issue to see if the
County can be of any assistance in securing street lamps for Castle
Lakes Subdivision.
APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA
Motion: Vice-Chairman Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner
Birzenieks to approve the items on the Consent Agenda as presented.
Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
CONSENT AGENDA
Approval of Minutes
The Commissioners approved the minutes of the Regular Meeting
of December 2, 1996, as presented by the Clerk to the Board.
Approval of Release of Value - Tax Department
The Commissioners approved release of the following late
listing penalties since this was the taxpayer's first offense or
the taxpayer certified the listing had been made in a timely
manner:
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 16, 1996
BOOK 25
PAGE 719
Hungates
Elizabeth T. Liddell
Richard C. Phillips
Ralph Shipton
$10.76
$37.93
$20.12
$37.42
The Commissioners approved value adjustments for the following
properties because of conditions that were just brought to the
attention of the Tax Department. Information pertaining to the
adjustments can be reviewed in the Tax Department upon request.
Michael R. Fletcher
Wrightsville Square Partnership
$ 8,710
$82,168
The Commissioners granted Senior Ci tizen/Disabili ty exclusions
to the following taxpayers. Applications and letters explaining
the late filing are available in the Tax Department upon request:
Oscar E. Sarvis
Roberta McCall Smith
Margaret Jean Ward
$15,000
$15,000
$15,000
Approval of Tax Collection Reports through November 30, 1996 - Tax
Department
The Commissioners approved the following Tax Collection
Reports through November 30, 1996, as recommended by the Collector
of Revenue:
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 XXIII, Page 32.
Acceptance of 1996-97 Arts Council Grass Roots Grant for the Cape
Fear Museum and Approval of Associated Budget Amendment #97-0080
The Commissioners accepted the 1996 - 9 7 Arts Council Grass
Roots grant awarded in the amount of $1,000 to the Cape Fear
Museum, and approved the associated Budget Amendment as listed
below. The funds will be used to support programs related to the
Live Performance Series and for payment of artistic fees. The
required match is currently in the FY 1996-97 Museum Operating
Budget.
Budget Amendment #97-0080 Museum
Debit
Credit
Museum
Arts Council Grant
$1,000
Contracted Services
$1,000
Acceptance of Grants for the New Hanover County Public Library and
Approval of Associated Budget Amendment #97-0084
The Commissioners accepted the following grant awards and
approved the associated Budget Amendment to budget the proceeds
received from the grants and fall book sale:
(1) Acceptance of grant award from the New Hanover County
Partnership for Children in the amount of $63,675 to provide
monthly literature-based story time programs to New Hanover
County day care centers; develop thematic collections of
materials to circulate among the centers; provide training
workshops for day care center personnel, and provide
information on library services to families utilizing day
care.
(2) Budget an increase of $4,386 from the State Aid to Public
Libraries Grant.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 16, 1996
BOOK 25
PAGE 720
(3) Budget revenue received from the Friends of the Library fall
book sale in the amount of $8,328. The proceeds will be used
to purchase reference and circulating books.
Budget Amendment #97-0084 - Library
Books & periodicals
Debit Credit
$4,386
$4,386
Debit Credit
$63,675
$16,179
$ 1,238
$ 3,869
$ 200
$35,000
$ 5,000
$ 2,189
$ 8,328
$ 8,328
Librarv
State Aid to Public Libraries Grant
Training & Travel
(Budget Amendment #97-0084 continued)
Partnership for Children Grant
Salaries & Wages
FICA
Training & Travel
Department Supplies
Books & periodicals
printing
Capital Outlay - Equipment
Contributions
Adoption of Resolution to Renew Contract #95-0100-B with Correction
Enterprises for Inmate Labor at WASTEC and the New Hanover County
Landfill
The Commissioners adopted a resolution to renew a contract
wi th Correction Enterprises, an agency of the State of North
Carolina, to use inmate labor to perform work at the WASTEC
Facility and the New Hanover County Landfill. The Chairman was
authorized to execute the necessary contract documents.
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXIII, Page 32.
A copy of the contract is on file in the Legal Department.
Adoption of Resolution for Acceptance of the Bid Received from
FastServ of Midlands, South Carolina, for the Sale of Eighteen (18)
Surplus Stretchers in the Emergency Medical Services Department
The Commissioners adopted a resolution to accept the highest
responsible bid from FastServ for the sale of eighteen (18) surplus
stretchers in the amount of $3,900.00.
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXIII, Page 32.
Adoption of Resolution to Award Bid #97-0238 and Approval of
Contract #97-0238 with Eastern Technology Associated, L.L.C. to
Upgrade the Computer for the Department of Social Services
The Commissioners adopted a resolution to award a bid in the
amount of $59,646 to Eastern Technology Associates, L.L.C., the
lowest responsible bidder, for upgrading the computer for the
Department of Social Services. The Chairman was authorized to
execute the necessary contract documents.
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXIII, Page 32.
A copy of the contract is on file in the Legal Department.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 16, 1996
BOOK 25
PAGE 721
Adoption of Resolution to Award Bid #97-0206 and Approval of
Contract #97-0206 with Interior Management, Inc. for Open Plan
Office Systems
The Commissioners adopted
Interior Management, Inc. for
Chairman was authorized to
documents.
a resolution to award a bid to
open plan office systems. The
execute the necessary contract
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXIII, Page 32.
A copy of the contract is on file in the Legal Department.
Adoption of Resolution for the Sale of Two (2) Surplus Ambulances -
Emergency Medical Services Department
The Commissioners adopted a resolution to award the only bid
received to Northwestern Emergency Vehicles, Inc. in the amount of
$17,000 for the sale of two (2) surplus ambulances.
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXIII, Page 32.
Approval of Budget Amendment #97-16 - Sheriff's Department
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
#97-16 Controlled Substance Tax Capital Project
Debit
Credit
Controlled Substance Tax Capital Prolect
Controlled Substance Tax
$16,323
Supplies
$16,323
Purpose: To increase the budget for additional revenue received
November 15, 1996. Controlled Substance Tax funds must be budgeted
as received and used for law enforcement activities as the Sheriff
deems necessary.
Approval of Budget Amendment #97-0083 - Sheriff's Department
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
#97-0083 Sheriff/Administration
Debit
Credit
Sheriff/Administration
Other
$40,000
Motor Vehicle Purchases
$40,000
Purpose: To budget insurance proceeds for replacement of wrecked
vehicles.
Approval of Budget Amendment #97-0086 - Governing Body Office
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
#97-0086 Commissioners' Office - Transfer to Other Funds
Debit
Credit
Commissioners' Office
Appropriated Fund Balance
$200,000
Transfer of Other Funds
Building
$200,000
Purpose: For purchase of the Siemens Building for New Hanover
County Schools and to appropriate funds ($200,000) in the FY 1996-
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 16, 1996
BOOK 25
PAGE 722
97 Budget that were budgeted but not expended in FY 1995-96.
Previous budget (FY 1995-96) rolled into fund balance at the year
end.
PRESENTATION OF NEW HANOVER COUNTY SERVICE AWARDS
County Manager O'Neal requested the following employees to
step forward to receive Service Awards.
Name
Years of Service
Sammie L. Rogers, Engineering Department
5
Esther Adams, Health Department
John Bates, Inspections Department
Thomas Farmer, Engineering Department
10
10
10
B. J. Landry, Inspections Department
Mary C. Shepard, Social Services
15
15
Chairman Greer, on behalf of the Board, presented service
awards to the employees and expressed appreciation to them for
their years of dedicated service to New Hanover County.
PRESENTATION BY NEW HANOVER COMMUNITIES ACTION COALITION
Mr. Ray Kress, speaking on behalf of the New Hanover
Communities Action Coalition, reported the organization was
composed of approximately 4,000 residents and property owners from
College Acres, Eastwood Village, Long Leaf Acres, Landfall, Inland
Greens and McCumber Terrace who are opposed to the City's
Annexation Plan, Phase I. He advised the current annexation
statute was extremely unfair to property owners since it enables
municipalities to increase revenue by arbitrarily annexing
neighborhoods that are not in need of services.
Mr. Kress stated the Coalition had tried to seek options that
would serve the mutual interest of City residents as well as
property owners living in the unincorporated County.
Unfortunately, the alternative solutions to the City's financial
concerns did not become a reality. Consolidation was not approved
by the voters, and the revenue sharing plan offered by New Hanover
County was not accepted by the City.
Mr. Kress asked the Board to adopt a resolution requesting the
General Assembly to amend the annexation statute by incorporating
the following changes:
(1) Repeal forced annexation by allowing the property owners in
affected areas the right to vote on the proposed annexation
plan.
(2) Require approval of annexation plans by the Board of County
Commissioners.
(3) Upon petition by the residents, require a 75% majority vote by
the City Council before an annexation plan can be approved.
(4) Change the "Urban" percentage qualification standard from 60%
to 70% which would represent a criteria more characteristic of
an urban environment.
(5) Establish more explicit standards for land use classifications
that are used to qualify areas to be annexed as "Urban". For
example, large tracts of land classified as "Commercial"
should be allowed to be split if the majority of acreage lS
"Undeveloped" . The same principle should be applied to
"Recreation" acreage.
(6) Establish a state committee to study the feasibility of a
city's annexation plan. Focus would be placed on duplication
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 16, 1996
BOOK 25
PAGE 723
of services and the economic impact on residential and
commercial properties. This committee would also be
responsible for reviewing, over a five-year period, a city's
annexation plan implementation to ensure they have fulfilled
their responsibilities.
In closing, Mr. Kress expressed appreciation to the Board for
taking time to hear the presentation and reported the Coalition
would be working with the local legislative delegation to gain
support of the proposed changes.
Chairman Greer reported the N. C. Association of County
Commissioners was opposed to forced annexation and had been working
with the N. C. League of Municipalities to prepare changes that
would meet the needs of cities as well as eliminate forced
annexation of unincorporated areas. At this time, the exact
changes are not known; however, the Executive Committees of the
Association and League will meet again this week to further discuss
amending the annexation statute. He advised he would be attending
the Executive Committee meeting, and the Board may wish to adopt a
resolution of its own or wait to see what changes will be proposed
by the Association before moving forward with preparing a
resolution.
Consensus: After further discussion, it was the consensus of the
Board to request Staff to prepare a resolution requesting the North
Carolina General Assembly to amend the laws governing annexation.
VICE-CHAIRMAN CASTER DESIGNATED AS THE VOTING DELEGATE FOR THE
NORTH CAROLINA ASSOCIATION OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS LEGISLATIVE
GOALS CONFERENCE
Chairman Greer commented on serving as the 2nd Vice-President
of the N. C. Association of County Commissioners and recommended
designating Vice-Chairman Caster as the voting delegate.
Motion: Chairman Greer MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Howell to
designate Vice-Chairman Caster as the voting delegate for New
Hanover County at the N. C. Association of County Commissioners
Legislative Goals Conference to be held on January 9-10, 1997, at
Research Triangle Park, N. C. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
APPROVAL OF REVISIONS TO NEW HANOVER COUNTY ANIMAL CONTROL SERVICES
FEES
Health Director, Bob Parker, reported the Board of Health
voted to approve fee increases after studying recommendations for
over a year. The purpose for recommending fee increases are as
follows: (1) reduce the number of unwanted animals by encouraging
spaying and neutering of dogs and cats; (2) reduce the amount of
paperwork for both the animal control services and staff at local
veterinary hospitals that collect license fees by offering the
three-year license fee; and (3) request pet owners who violate the
animal control ordinances to pay for the system through higher
penalties. He requested the Board to approve the fee revisions as
recommended by the Board of Health.
Commissioner Birzenieks commented on the significant increase
in some fees and requested Health Director Parker to explain why
these fees increased so drastically.
Health Director Parker responded that a majority of fees deal
with public nuisances that violate the New Hanover County Animal
Control Ordinance, such as barking dogs and dogs running loose in
neighborhoods. The current fees have not decreased the number of
ordinance violations; therefore, the Board of Health felt that a
sizeable increase in these fees would provide a deterrent and
hopefully decrease the number of complaints received in the Animal
Control Center.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 16, 1996
BOOK 25
PAGE 724
Commissioner Howell stated he felt a majority of the
complaints received involved low-to-moderate income residents, and
he expressed concern for these people not being able to pay the
proposed fee increases.
Heal th Director Parker reported the number of complaints
received by the Animal Control Division far surpassed any other
program administered by the Health Department. The records reflect
that numerous persons repeatedly violate the Ordinance. The
violations range from the most elite to the poorest class with no
indication that a higher percentage comes from any particular level
of income.
Commissioner Davis requested an explanation of how a violation
lS determined and how fines are levied and collected.
Health Director Parker responded that fines were levied and
collected by the Animal Control Center. If an individual fails to
pay the fine, the person is taken to Small Claims Court.
Violations are determined by the Animal Control Officer in the
field when a dog is picked up, or when a complaint is received the
violation is investigated. For example, he spent an afternoon in
a lady's yard taping a constant barking dog so the evidence could
be presented in Small Claims Court. Director Parker informed the
Board that handling animal control complaints was the most
difficult program administered by the Health Department because
owners never feel their animals are in violation of the Animal
Control Ordinance, or their pets are a nuisance to surrounding
neighbors.
Commissioner Birzenieks asked Health Director Parker if he
felt the collection system should be changed or adjusted?
Health Director Parker responded he was comfortable with the
present collection procedures other than collection of fees for
license tags.
County Manager O'Neal commented on the frustrations in dealing
with animal control and agreed with the remarks made by the Health
Director. He recommended reviewing the entire system, including
the collections process and distribution of licensing, to see if
the operation can run more smoothly and free uprol Ordinance.
Consensus: After further discussion, it was the consensus of the
Board to direct the County Manager to appoint a Task Force to
perform the review and report back to the Board by the end of
March.
Chairman Greer expressed concern for the County being told by
the Magistrate that only a certain number of animal control cases
could be heard in Small Claims Court. He requested the County
Attorney to comment on this matter.
County Attorney Copley responded the Magistrate should not be
controlling the number of cases heard and advised she would check
into this matter and report back to the Board.
Motion: After discussion of the need to better control the number
of violations by pet owners, Vice-Chairman Caster MOVED, SECONDED
by Commissioner Birzenieks to approve the revisions to the Animal
Control services fees as presented by the Board of Health. Upon
vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS:
Voting Aye: Commissioner Birzenieks
Commissioner Davis
Vice-Chairman Caster
Chairman Greer
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 16, 1996
BOOK 25
PAGE 725
Voting Nay: Commissioner Howell
The revisions to the Animal Control services fees are on file
at the Health Department.
ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION TO AWARD CONTRACT #97-0249 TO POST, BUCKLEY,
SCHUH & JERNIGAN, INC. TO PROVIDE ENGINEERING INSPECTION SERVICES
DURING CONSTRUCTION OF CELL 4B IN THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY LANDFILL
Director of Environmental Management, Ray Church, requested
the Board to award a contract to Post, Buckley, Schuh & Jernigan,
Inc. to provide engineering inspection services during construction
of Cell 4B.
Commissioner Birzenieks asked if there were any engineering
firms in New Hanover County that could perform this type of work,
and if so, had Staff tried to secure local firms?
Director Church responded some local firms were now capable of
performing the services needed to bid for solid waste contracts;
however, the County had worked with Post, Buckley, Schuh &
Jernigan, Inc. since the late 70's with development of the first
landfill cell project. He advised that Staff does routinely seek
proposals from companies in New Hanover County and throughout the
State of North Carolina. Currently, there are numerous contracts
with local companies or firms in North Carolina for the provision
of services at the Landfill and the WASTEC Facility.
Commissioner Davis inquired as to whether any local firm had
approached the County about the inspection services?
Director Church responded no local firms had approached the
County about quality assurance control and inspection services.
Since Post, Buckley, Schuh & Jernigan, Inc. designed the cell, it
was appropriate for the firm to provide the inspection services for
construction of the cell.
County Manager O'Neal recommended scheduling a tour of the
WASTEC Facility and the New Hanover County Landfill to see the
schematic drawings of the facilities and better understand the
design features. He advised that when the first phase of the
landfill project was completed the County would move forward with
interviewing other firms for engineering services.
Discussion was held on the number of cells to be closed and
the engineering services nervices are required for closing cells.
He reported that Cell 3B, a portion of 4A and Cell 1 (which had to
be reopened because of the hurricanes) would have to be closed
within eighteen months. An advantage of using the same firm was
the ability to contact Post, Buckley, Schuh & Jernigan, Inc. when
it became necessary to have an engineer on site for reopening Cell
1 during Hurricane Fran.
Motion: After discussion of the cost being reasonable,
Commissioner Howell MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Caster to
adopt a resolution to award contract #97-0249 to Post, Buckley,
Schuh & Jernigan, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $148,089 to
provide engineering inspection services during construction of Cell
4B in the New Hanover County Landfill. The Chairman was authorized
to execute the necessary documents. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
Vice-Chairman Caster commented on the Board's desire that New
Hanover County should not be locked into one engineering firm, and
he requested Director Church to consider other firms in future
bidding projects as well as ensure the County that bids proposed by
Post, Buckley, Schuh & Jernigan, Inc. are competitive with other
comparable firms.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 16, 1996
BOOK 25
PAGE 726
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXIII, Page 32.
A copy of the contract is on file in the Legal Department.
PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER INSTALLMENT FINANCING OF LAND
ACQUISITION FOR CONSTRUCTION OF A SCHOOL/PARK PROJECT AND APPROVAL
OF ASSOCIATED BUDGET AMENDMENT #97-0085
Chairman Greer announced a Public Hearing would be held to
consider approval of installment financing for land acquisition to
construct a school/park complex; however, before opening the Public
Hearing he would like for the Finance Director to explain the total
cost of the land acquisition as well as the amount to be financed
by the County since no dollar figures were presented in the agenda
information.
Finance Director, Bruce Shell, responded the total land
acquisition cost was $5,629,752; however, the amount to be financed
was $5,458,152 as listed in the accompanying Budget Amendment.
Commissioner Davis requested an explanation of the County's
financial responsibility if a school bond issue was not approved by
the voters.
Finance Director Shell responded the County would restructure
the debt over a longer period of time. He advised the financing
agreement had been written to avoid an early payment penalty if a
pay-off was required.
Chairman Greer opened the Public Hearing and inquired as to
whether anyone from the public would like to comment.
No remarks were received.
Chairman Greer closed the Public Hearing.
Motion: Commissioner Birzenieks MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner
Howell to adopt a resolution approving installment financing with
First Union National Bank for the purchase of 210 acres of property
located south of pilot's Ridge on Carolina Beach Road for the
School/Park Construction Project and approve the associated Budget
Amendment. The Chairman was authorized to execute the necessary
documents.
Vice-Chairman Caster stated approval of this action represents
approximately four cents on the property tax rate; therefore, the
Board should urge the Board of Education to move forward with a
community-backed school bond issue.
Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Budget Amendment #97-0085 Commissioners' Office
Debit
Credit
Commissioners' Office
Appropriated Fund Balance
$ 106,600
Public Schools/General
Contributions - Builders
65,000
5,458,152
Land Costs
$5,629,752
Purpose: To record the purchase of school/park property. The
annual debt service on the land purchase will be approximately
$320,000 beginning in the next fiscal year budget.
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXIII, Page 32.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 16, 1996
BOOK 25
PAGE 727
PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER REZONING 1.10 ACRES AT 5858 MARKET
STREET WEST OF CARDINAL DRIVE EXTENSION TO R-15 RESIDENTIAL FROM B-
2 BUSINESS (Z-581, 11/96)
Chairman Greer opened the Public Hearing.
Planning Director Hayes reported the Planning Board voted
(6) to one (1) to recommend rezoning the property to Office
Institution. A majority of the Planning Board members felt the
Zoning would be more compatible with surrounding zoning
existing land uses while retaining a residential element.
member of the Planning Board felt the O-I would create a
zoning situation.
SlX
and
O-I
and
One
spot
Chairman Greer inquired as to whether anyone from the public
would like to comment.
No remarks were received.
Chairman Greer closed the Public Hearing.
Motion: Vice-Chairman Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner
Howell to rezone the property to Office and Institution as
recommended 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. 9B OF NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NORTH
CAROLINA, ADOPTED JULY 1, 1972, is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Zoning Book II, Section 9B, Page
82.
BREAK
Chairman Greer called a break from 10:30 A.M. until 10:45 A.M.
PUBLIC HEARING TO RECEIVE COMMENTS ON THE PERMIT RENEWAL
APPLICATION FOR CELL 4B AT THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY LANDFILL
Chairman Greer announced the Public Hearing was advertised in
the Star-News Newspaper on Sunday, December 1, 1996, and stated in
order to comply to NCGS 130A-294, the Board was required to hold a
Public Hearing to provide an opportunity for the public to comment
on the permit renewal application for construction of Cell 4B at
the New Hanover County Landfill.
Chairman Greer opened the Public Hearing and inquired as to
whether anyone from the public would like to comment.
No remarks were received.
Chairman Greer closed the Public Hearing and reported no
further action was required.
AWARD OF CONTRACT # 9 7 - 0 19 5 TO T . A. LOVING COMPANY, INC. FOR
IMPROVEMENT TO THE FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEM AT THE WASTEC FACILITY
Director of Environmental Management, Ray Church, reported the
insurance carrier for the WASTEC Facility was requiring
improvements to the fire protection system because of the inability
of the existing water supply system to support the booster fire
pump that provides water to the sprinkler system. After exploring
several alternatives that were cost prohibitive, the City of
Wilmington was approached and has agreed to allow the County to tap
into the 48-inch raw water line which runs in front of the plant.
The cost to install the line, fire pump, building, and
appurtenances is estimated at $155,000. At the bid opening only
one bid was received. At the second bid opening only one bid was
received from T. A. Loving Company, Inc. in the amount of $189,000.
Staff recommends award of the contract to T. A. Loving Company,
Inc. in an amount not to exceed $189,000. Staff will continue to
work with McKim & Creed Engineering in negotiating with T. A.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 16, 1996
BOOK 25
PAGE 728
Loving Company, Inc. to reduce the cost of the project.
Modifications or changes in the scope of the project will be
discussed and finalized prior to entering into a contract.
Motion: Commissioner Howell MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman
Caster to adopt a resolution awarding the contract to T. A. Loving
Company, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $189,000 for improving the
fire protection system at the WASTEC Facility. The Chairman was
authorized to execute the necessary contract documents. 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 XXIII, Page 32.
A copy of the contract is on file in the Legal Department.
DISCUSSION OF PREPARING A COUNTY-WIDE SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT PLAN
Mr. Geof Little, Environmental Management Solid Waste Planner,
reported in 1996 the General Assembly passed House Bill 859 which
required local governments to prepare and implement a 10-year Solid
Waste Management Plan by July 1, 1997. The County submitted a plan
in 1993, which was approved by the State. This plan can be updated
and developed individually or jointly with other local governments
to provide a detailed evaluation of the waste stream, an evaluation
of the solid waste program to identify shortcomings in collections,
recycling disposal, illegal dumping, and related solid waste
issues. The plan must establish a local solid waste reduction goal
to assist the State in reaching its goal of 40% by the year 2001.
A schedule for implementing the procedures to meet the goal must be
included in the plan. Public participation is required through
public meetings to incorporate public comments. A resolution
approving the plan will be required from each participating local
government.
Staff recommends inviting the municipalities in New Hanover
County to participate in preparing a joint Solid Waste Management
Plan. A draft letter has been prepared to extend this invitation.
The Board was requested to authorize the Chairman to sign and
submit the letter to the municipalities, approve the projected
activity schedule, and consider realistic waste reduction goals for
the area.
Discussion was held on reaching the 40% waste reduction
figure. Mr. Little reported if the County used the current year's
figure as a base line number, the County would probably meet its
waste reduction goal; however, waste generation is based upon the
local economy which is extremely good in New Hanover County with
continued growth in construction. If the economy should
drastically change, the figures would change.
Director Church advised the plan would become a planning tool
for the County and municipalities to reVlew how solid waste
disposal would be handled.
Chairman Greer requested an explanation of what would be
required of the City or beach communities if they decided to
prepare a joint plan.
Director Church responded the City and beach communirovided
and the services that will be needed in the future. A joint plan
would assure the municipalities that New Hanover County would be
providing solid waste disposal services for the next ten years.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 16, 1996
BOOK 25
PAGE 729
Motion: Commissioner Howell MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman
Caster to approve the development of a revised Solid Waste
Management Plan as recommended by the Director of Environmental
Management, which includes authorization for the Chairman to invite
the municipalities to participate in the plan. Upon vote, the
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
REVIEW OF TIME WARNER CABLE'S FCC 1240 ANNUAL RATE ADJUSTMENT
REQUEST
County Attorney Copley reported Time Warner had submitted its
annual FCC 1240 rate filing request for the Basic Service Tier,
which seeks to increase the maximum permitted rate that Time Warner
may charge subscribers during 1997. She commented on the complex
regulations involved with cable television and reported this was
the reason for hiring a consultant to make recommendations for the
County.
Discussion was held on the annual cost of the consulting
service. County Attorney Copley responded that Action Audits,
Inc., charged an annual fee of $5,000, which had saved time and
money for the Legal Department. She advised that recently the
consultant recommended denying a rate increase for Falcon Cable.
The County proceeded with this recommendation and Falcon Cable has
appealed the decision to the Federal Communications Commission
(FCC) who will render a final decision on the rate increase.
Because of the complex FCC regulations, this type of action would
have cost the Legal Department a tremendous amount of time and
money in preparing the necessary documents to deny the rate
increase requested by Falcon Cable.
Motion: Vice-Chairman Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner
Birzenieks to adopt the consultant's report as the County's report
and execute the attached order. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
A copy of the report and order are on file ln the Legal
Department.
ESTABLISHMENT OF A COMMITTEE TO REVIEW THE RESTRUCTURING OF NEW
HANOVER REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER TO A COMMUNITY GENERAL HOSPITAL
Commissioner Davis reported the New Hanover Regional Medical
Center Board of Trustees requested the former Board of County
Commissioners to restructure the Medical Center to a Community
General Hospital. The former Board deferred action on this request
until the new members were sworn into office. In response to this
deferral, he was requesting the Board to appoint a committee from
a cross-section of the community, independent of the hospital, to
study the proposal for changing the structure and prepare a
recommendation to be presented to the Board.
Commissioner Davis advised
Chairman Caster may not desire to
process. He recommended moving
committee as soon as possible so a
for the study and a final decision
Commissioners.
that Chairman Greer and Vice-
be involved in the appointment
forward with establishing the
time frame could be established
rendered by the Board of County
Chairman Greer advised he was not opposed to the appointment
of a committee with a specific time frame; however, he did not want
to be involved with the appointment process.
Vice-Chairman Caster stated he would not be interested in
becoming involved in the appointment process; however, UNCW
Chancellor, James R. Leutze, had offered to provide a facilitator
to assist the committee. He recommended involving a hospital
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 16, 1996
BOOK 25
PAGE 730
Trustee on the Committee because of the complex lssues involved
with medical care.
Commissioner Birzenieks responded that UNCW had agreed to
allow Dr. Don Latham to serve as the facilitator. He stated Dr.
Latham had performed an outstanding job when preparing the
Strategic Plan for New Hanover County. Also, the Assistant to the
County Manager, Ms. Pat Melvin, had served as the Staff
representative during the preparation of the Strategic Plan, and
she also performed an exceptional job. He recommended accepting
the offer from UNCW and assigning Ms. Melvin as the Staff person to
assist the committee.
Discussion was held on the routine procedure used for
appointing persons to serve on study committees. Clerk to the
Board, Lucie F. Harrell, responded the normal procedure was to
advertise the vacancies. She advised the advertisement could be
placed in the newspaper within the next week with appointments made
by the Board on January 21, 1997.
Consensus: After a lengthy discussion, it was the consensus of the
Board to proceed with the following actions: (1) establish a
Hospital Study Committee comprised of nine members from the at-
large community to review restructuring New Hanover Regional
Medical Center to a Community General Hospital; (2) request the
Clerk to the Board to advertise the vacancies; (3) authorize
Commissioner Birzenieks, Commissioner Davis, and Commissioner
Howell to select three appointees each from the applications
received and recommend appointments to the Board on January 21,
1997; (4) accept the offer from UNCW for the provision of Dr. Don
Latham as the facilitator to assist the committee; (5) assign the
Assistant to the County Manager, Ms. Pat Melvin, as the Staff
coordinator; and (6) charge the Hospital Study Committee with
preparing a recommendation to be presented to the Board of County
Commissioners on March 24, 1997, with a final decision rendered by
the Board on April 7, 1997.
DISCUSSION OF DATES FOR A JOINT MEETING WITH THE BOARD OF EDUCATION
AND A PLANNING RETREAT
County Manager O'Neal requested the Board to select dates for
holding a joint meeting with the Board of Education and scheduling
a Planning Retreat. He advised the Board of Education has
requested scheduling an evening meeting on January 13, 1997, or
January 15, 1997, beginning at 7:00 P.M.
Consensus: After discussion, it was the consensus of the Board for
the County Manager to schedule the joint meeting on either January
13, 1997, or January 15, 1997, and report back to the Board.
Discussion was held on a Planning Retreat for the Board of
County Commissioners. Chairman Greer requested the County Manager
to present the following budget information at the Retreat: (1)
budget figures for FY 1995-96 and FY 1996-97 for each county
department so comparisons can be made; (2) a list of new positions
added last year; and (3) a list of additional funding for projects
added during the current year that will require funding in future
years.
County Manager O'Neal reported Staff would be able to project
revenue figures; however, these figures would not include the
impact of the State budget because the General Assembly begins its
long session in January. Frequently many funding issues are not
decided by the General Assembly until July or August, which is
after the June 30, 1997, deadline for submission of the County
budget as required by State Statute.
Consensus: After discussion, it was the consensus of the Board to
schedule a Planning Retreat beginning on Friday, January 17, 1997,
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 16, 1996
BOOK 25
PAGE 731
at 2:00 P.M. and reconvening on Saturday, January 18, 1997, at 8:00
A.M. The County Manager and Clerk to the Board were requested to
locate a facility in town and prepare a tentative agenda.
ADOPTION OF FISCAL YEAR 1997-98 BUDGET PREPARATION SCHEDULE
County Manager O'Neal requested adoption of the FY 1997-98
Budget Preparation Schedule. He advised the Board of Education was
not required to submit the school budget until May 15, 1997, as
required by State Statute; however, the School Administration
usually submits the budget by the middle of April.
Consensus: It was the consensus of the Board to adopt the FY 1997-
98 Budget Preparation Schedule as presented by the County Manager.
MEETING CONVENED FROM REGULAR SESSION TO HOLD A MEETING OF THE NEW
HANOVER COUNTY WATER AND SEWER DISTRICT
Chairman Greer convened from Regular Session at 11:35 A.M.
until 12:16 P.M. to hold a meeting of the Water and Sewer District.
APPOINTMENT OF COMMISSIONERS TO SERVE ON VARIOUS BOARDS AND
COMMITTEES
After discussion, it was the consensus of the Board to appoint
the following Commissioners to serve on the various boards and
committees with the Commissioner appointed to serve on the New
Hanover Regional Medical Center Board of Trustees appointment to
become effective January 1, 1997, since a meeting was scheduled for
December 17, 1996, at 5:00 P.M.
Bellamy Mansion Board of Directors
Commissioner Howell
Cape Fear Community College Long Range
Planning Committee
vice-Chairman Caster
Cape Fear River Program Advisory Board
vice-Chairman Caster
Cape Fear River Corridor Study Committee
Chairman Greer
Vice-Chairman Caster
Chamber of Commerce
Chairman Greer
City/County Water and Sewer
Unification Committee
vice-Chairman Caster
Commissioner Howell
Convention & visi tors Bureau
Commissioner Birzenieks
Council of Governments -
Executive Committee
vice-Chairman Caster
Criminal Justice Partnership
Advisory Board
Commissioner Davis
DARE Board of Directors
Commissioner Birzenieks
Board of Fire Commissioners
Commissioner Howell
Groundwater Task Force
vice-Chairman Caster
Board of Health
Chairman Greer
Human Services Transportation
Advisory Board
Commissioner Howell
Human Relations Commission
Commissioner Birzenieks
Legion Stadium Committee
vice-Chairman Caster
Commissioner Howell
Lower Cape Fear Water & Sewer Authority
vice-Chairman Caster
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 16, 1996
BOOK 25
PAGE 732
Military Affairs Committee
vice-Chairman Caster
New Hanover Regional Medical Center
Board of Trustees
Commissioner Birzenieks
Parks & Recreation Advisory Board
Chairman Greer
Partnership for Children
Commissioner Birzenieks
Port, Waterway & Beach Commission
vice-Chairman Caster
Program Area Committee for Kirkland
Revitalization (CDGB)
Chairman Greer
Soil & Conservation RC&D
Commissioner Howell
Southeastern Center (Mental Health)
Commissioner Davis
Transportation Advisory Committee
Commissioner Howell
WASTEC Commission
vice-Chairman Caster
Wilmington Housing & Financing Development
Chairman Greer
Wilmington Industrial Development, Inc.
Chairman Greer
The Clerk to the Board was requested to check with Ms. Nancy
Pritchett, Director of Keep America Beautiful, to see if it was
necessary to appoint a Commissioner to serve on this committee
since Environmental Director Ray Church, Dennis Burks, and Geof
Little attend the meetings. Also, the Clerk to the Board was
requested to check with Wilmington Industrial Development, Inc. to
see if the Chairman was required to be the Board's representative
on this committee.
COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS
APPOINTMENT OF WILSON O'KELLY JEWELL, WILLIAM T. STEWER, AND ANN
BRASWELL ROWE TO SERVE ON THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF HEALTH
Chairman Greer announced there were three vacancies on the New
Hanover County Board of Health under the following categories:
Dentist, Engineer, and General Public.
Chairman Greer opened the floor to receive nominations for
appointment of an applicant to represent the dental category.
Commissioner Birzenieks nominated Wilson O'Kelly Jewell. The
nomination was seconded by Vice-Chairman Caster.
There being no further nominations, Chairman Greer declared
the nominations closed.
Vote: Upon vote, Wilson O'Kelly Jewell was unanimously appointed
to serve a three-year term on the Board of Health as the dental
representative. The term will expire December 31, 1999.
Chairman Greer opened the floor to receive nominations for
appointment of an applicant to represent the engineering category.
vice-Chairman Caster nominated William T. Stewer. The
nomination was seconded by Commissioner Howell.
There being no further nominations, Chairman Greer declared
the nominations closed.
Vote: Upon vote, William T. Stewer was unanimously appointed to
serve a three-year term on the Board of Health as the engineering
representative. The term will expire December 31, 1999.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 16, 1996
BOOK 25
PAGE 733
Chairman Greer opened the floor to receive nominations for
appointment of an applicant to represent the general public
category.
Commissioner Davis nominated Ann Braswell Rowe. The
nomination was seconded by Chairman Greer.
There being no further nominations, Chairman Greer declared
the nominations closed.
Vote: Upon vote, Ann Braswell Rowe was unanimously appointed to
serve a three-year term on the Board of Health as the
representative from the general public. The term will expire
December 31, 1999.
REAPPOINTMENT OF DENNIS BOWES AND ANTHONY GENTILE, JR. TO SERVE ON
THE HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION
Chairman Greer announced there were two
Relations Commission and reported that five
received with two of the applicants
reappointment.
vacancies on the Human
applications had been
being eligible for
Motion: Vice-Chairman Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner
Howell to reappoint Dennis Bowes and Anthony Gentile, Jr. to serve
three-year terms on the Human Relations Commission. The terms will
expire December 31, 1999. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
APPOINTMENT OF RODNEY Q. HARRIS TO SERVE ON THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY
PLANNING BOARD
Chairman Greer announced there was an unexpired term on the
Planning Board. He reported the term would expire July 31, 1997;
therefore, the Board may wish to extend the term to three and one-
half years.
Vice-Chairman Caster recommended extending the term to July
31, 2000.
Consensus: It was the consensus of the Board to extend the term to
three and one-half years.
Chairman Greer opened the floor to recelve nominations.
Vice-Chairman Caster nominated Rodney Q. Harris. The
nomination was seconded by Commissioner Birzenieks.
Vote: Upon vote, Rodney Q. Harris was unanimously appointed to
serve a three and one-half year term on the Planning Board to
expire July 31, 2000.
APPOINTMENT OF SANDRA PUTNAM TO SERVE ON THE NEW HANOVER COMMISSION
FOR WOMEN
Chairman Greer announced there was one vacancy on the
Commission for Women and reported that four applications had been
received. He advised the vacancy was an unexpired term that would
expire May 31, 1997; therefore, the Board may wish to extend the
term to three and one-half years with the term to expire May 31,
2000.
Consensus: It was the consensus of the Board to extend the term to
three and one-half years.
Chairman Greer opened the floor to recelve nominations.
Commissioner Davis nominated Sandra Putnam.
was seconded by Commissioner Birzenieks.
The nomination
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 16, 1996
BOOK 25
PAGE 734
There being no further nominations,
the nominations closed.
Chairman Greer declared
Vote: Upon vote, Sandra Putnam was unanimously appointed to serve
a three and one-half year term on the Commission for Women with the
term to expire May 31, 2000.
APPOINTMENT OF DALLAS J. BROWN TO SERVE AS AN ALTERNATE MEMBER OF
THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT
Chairman Greer announced there was a vacant alternate position
on the Zoning Board of Adjustment. He reported since this was an
alternate position, the Board may wish to make the appointment for
three years with the term to expire December 1, 1999, in lieu of a
two-year term.
Consensus: It was the consensus of the Board to appoint the
alternate member to serve a three-year term.
Chairman Greer opened the floor to receive nominations.
Commissioner Birzenieks nominated Dallas J. Brown. The
nomination was seconded by Vice-Chairman Caster.
There being no further nominations, Chairman Greer declared
the nominations closed.
Vote: Upon vote, Dallas J. Brown was unanimously appointed to
serve as an alternate member of the Zoning Board of Adjustment with
the term to expire December 1, 1999.
ADDITIONAL ITEMS - COUNTY MANAGER
AWARD OF CONTRACT TO CFE, INC. FOR ROOF REPLACEMENT OF THE
DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES BUILDING
County Manager O'Neal reported two bids were received after
the second advertisement. He recommended awarding the contract to
CFE, Inc., the lowest responsible bidder, for replacing the roof on
the Department of Social Services Building.
Motion: Vice-Chairman Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner
Howell to award the contract to CFE, Inc., the lowest responsible
bidder, in the amount of $99,500 to replace the roof on the
Department of Social Services Building. The Chairman was
authorized to execute the contract documents. Upon vote, the
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
A copy of the contract lS on file ln the Legal Department.
ACTION DEFERRED ON THE SALE OF SURPLUS COUNTY PROPERTY
Deputy County Manager, Andrew J. Atkinson, reported the City
of Wilmington closed Primrose Street adjacent to the New Hanover
County Social Services building. By closing the street, the County
received a tract of land measuring 33 x 330 feet. The property
owner, Russell Gay, has made an offer to purchase the land from the
County in the amount of $19,500 and pay all costs associated with
the sale. He requested the Board to consider selling the property
through the upset bid procedure outlined in NCGS 160A-269.
A lengthy discussion followed on the value and possible uses
of the property. Chairman Greer objected to the amount of money
being offered for the property. He expressed concern for this
being valuable land that could be used to construct a parking deck
for the Department of Social Services at a future date.
Consensus: After further discussion, it was the consensus of the
Board to request the Engineering Department to review the uses of
the property and the offer made by the property owner. This item
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 16, 1996
BOOK 25
PAGE 735
will be placed on the January 6, 1997, agenda for further
consideration.
REPORT OF NEGOTIATED SETTLEMENTS IN LASSITER v. NEW HANOVER COUNTY
AND ANN TOBIN v. DEACON AND CROWDER
County Attorney Copley requested the Commissioners to accept
the settlements negotiated in the following lawsuits:
Lassiter v. New Hanover County
Ann Tobin v. Deacon and Crowder
$5,500
$6,000
Motion: Vice-Chairman Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner
Birzenieks to accept the settlements as recommended by the County
Attorney. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
DISCUSSION OF MEETING WITH NORTH CAROLINA HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION
County Manager O'Neal requested direction from the Board as to
when a meeting should be scheduled to meet with the N. C.
Homeowners Association and State Officials concerning the State's
Building Code and the responsibility of enforcement by the New
Hanover County Inspections Department.
Consensus:
schedule a
until 9:00
Courthouse.
After discussion, it was the consensus of the Board to
meeting on Monday, February 10, 1997, from 7:00 P.M.
P.M. in the Assembly Room of the New Hanover County
DISCUSSION OF WASTEC AGENDA ITEMS
County Manager O'Neal requested the Board to grant him
authority to place routine items for the WASTEC Facility on the
Consent Agenda. He advised this procedure would save time at
meetings and reported the Board could remove any item from the
Consent Agenda for further discussion during a meeting.
Consensus: It was the consensus of the Board to allow the County
Manager to place routine items for the WASTEC Facility on the
Consent Agenda when deemed appropriate.
DISCUSSION OF LEGISLATIVE COORDINATING COUNCIL MEETINGS
Clerk to the Board, Lucie F. Harrell, commented on the need to
schedule the first meeting of the Legislative Coordinating Council
and requested direction from the Board. She reported discussion
had been held with Chairman Greer and some of the legislators about
holding joint meetings with the Chamber of Commerce.
Consensus: After discussion, it was the consensus of the Board to
request the Clerk to the Board to discuss holding joint meetings
with the Executive Director of the Chamber of Commerce and report
back to the Board.
AUTHORIZATION FOR THE CHAIRMAN TO WRITE ANOTHER LETTER TO GOVERNOR
HUNT REGARDING FUNDING FOR BEACH RENOURISHMENT AND CAMA SETBACKS
Vice-Chairman Caster inquired as to whether the County had received
a response from the letter forwarded by the Chairman to Governor
Hunt regarding support of funding for beach renourishment and CAMA
setbacks.
Consensus: After discussion of no response being received, it was
the consensus of the Board to request the Chairman to write another
letter to Governor Hunt.
ADJOURNMENT
Chairman Greer adjourned the meeting at 1:00 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
Lucie F. Harrell
Clerk to the Board