1993-05-24 Budget Work Session
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
BUDGET WORK SESSION AND PUBLIC HEARING, MAY 24, 1993
BOOK 25
PAGE 496
ASSEMBLY
The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners held a Budget
Work Session and Public Hearing on Monday, May 24, 1993, at 7:00
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 reported
several agencies will make budget presentations for the first hour
with the Public Hearing for the FY 1993-94 Recommended Budget
beginning at 8:00 P.M.
BUDGET PRESENTATION BY THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
Mr. Francis Foy, Chairman of the Board of Social Services,
commented on the many needs of the community and difficulty of
adopting a balanced budget with scarce resources. The DSS staff
works diligently to provide DSS services to our citizens and
expresses appreciation for approval of the merit increase and
disability insurance for County employees. Due to the increased
workload in the Department of Social Services, the DSS Board voted
unanimously to approve 20 new positions because these positions are
desperately needed. Appreciation was expressed to the County
Manager for approval of the two Child Support Enforcement positions
and the Day Care Accounting Technician. Disappointment was
expressed for failure to recommend the other positions requested
for day care, a Social Worker and Clerk. Day Care is a vi tal
service if people are to be removed from the welfare roles. Far too
many jobs in the community pay minimum wages; therefore, day care
is essential. The Commissioners were requested to approve
additional funding in the amount of $30,000 for the two day care
positions, a Social Worker and Clerk. The remaining positions are
needed; however, it is hoped the General Assembly will appropriate
funding to fill some of these badly needed positions. If not, the
Board of Social Services may have to approach the County for
filling these positions later in the fiscal year.
BUDGET PRESENTATION BY THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF HEALTH
Mr. John M. Coble, Chairman of the Board of Health, expressed
appreciation for being able to appear before the Commissioners to
request restoration of a few positions in the FY 1993-94 Budget.
He introduced Mr. Mark A. Veenstra, Chairman of the Budget
Committee, to make the budget presentation.
Mr. Veenstra requested restoration of three positions in the
Animal Control Division. The primary purpose of Animal Control is
to control rabies in New Hanover County. This disease is on the
increase in North Carolina and it is imperative to enforce the
rabies regulations and patrol the area for loose dogs and cats.
Also, enforcement of the Dangerous Dog Law must be performed as
required under State Statute; therefore, it is imperative that the
two Field Officers and Kennel Supervisor be restored to the FY
1993-94 Budget. Revenue is generated by the Animal Control
Division through the cat and dog license fees; adoption fees; and
citations for violations of the regulations. Approval of the two
Field Officer positions will allow more weekend patrol, extend the
second shift to provide patrol later into the evening hours; and
generate more revenues. Approval of the Kennel Supervisor will
provide for overseeing the cleaning and feeding of animals as well
as allow for the shelter to be open on Saturdays, which will
increase the adoption of animals.
In summary, the Board of Health believes the positions
requested in Animal Control Division will essentially pay for
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
BUDGET WORK SESSION AND PUBLIC HEARING, MAY 24, 1993
BOOK 25
PAGE 497
themselves through increased revenues. The Commissioners were
requested to reconsider these positions in the FY 1993-94 Budget.
Commissioner Sisson inquired as to the basis for the estimated
increase in revenues?
Animal Control Director, Ron Currie, reported additional
revenues will be generated by being open on Saturdays through an
increase in adoption and redemption fees; issuance of more
citations; and an increase in County license fees. Also,
approximately 18,000 license renewal notices were mail with
approximately 3,800 persons who have not responded, which will
generate additional revenue.
Commissioner Barone reported on the cost for mailing pet
license renewal notices in the amount of $17,000 to $20,000 and
inquired as to whether this is a good investment?
Director Currie reported funds collected from the pet tag
renewal notices more than cover the expenses involved with
preparing and mailing the notices. Forsyth County decided to stop
sending out notices and the number of tags sold fell from 33,000 to
19,000 which was a considerable loss of revenue.
Commissioner Barone inquired as to whether Forsyth County is
using the system now being used by New Hanover County whereby the
County interacts with veterinarian records to see which persons
have or have not properly vaccinated their animals?
Director Currie reported Forsyth and Durham counties are
investigating this system. There is a meeting scheduled this week
with MIS to discuss the possibility of placing the veterinarians on
a modem which will alleviate the Clerks entering the data. Also,
the department is investigating issuing a 3-year tag instead of a
1-year tag.
BUDGET PRESENTATION BY THE SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT
Sheriff Joe McQueen reported on overcrowding of the jail and
the installation of the computer system to speed the processing of
court cases to reduce the jail population. It was the intent of
staff to request restoring the Computer-Assisted Dispatch position;
however, after discussion, staff has decided not to request the
additional position.
Appreciation was expressed to the Commissioners for approval
of the 5% merit increment for County employees. Also, concern was
expressed for removing funds to replace the radio tower. The
present tower is 20 years old and is in poor condition. Emphasis
was placed on the fact that complete communications could be lost
during a hurricane if the tower should fall down.
BUDGET PRESENTATION BY THE SOUTHEASTERN CENTER
Director of the Southeastern Center, Doug Sudduth, commented
on people suffering from mental illness, developmental
disabili ties, alcohol, and other drug abuse and reported the
Southeastern Center serves as a voice for these people. Staff and
employees at the Center are dedicated people who work long hours
for far less wages than in other health care facilities. Good
planning is the key to providing services for these people. The
recently approved Children's Initiative is an example of good
planning that will develop a plan to assess the needs of the
community with the coordination of all agencies working together
with available resources to provide the services to this group of
people. Emphasis was placed on continuing to move forward with
providing these services and recognizing that County tax dollars
spent are an investment in the lives of people.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
BUDGET WORK SESSION AND PUBLIC HEARING, MAY 24, 1993
BOOK 25
PAGE 498
BUDGET PRESENTATION BY CAPE FEAR COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Mr. Jack Lee, representing the Cape Fear Community College
Board of Trustees, expressed appreciation for past and present
support of Cape Fear Community College. During this year, 400
students will graduate. Many new programs have been added and
authorization has just been received from the American Dental
Association for implementing the Dental Assistants Program. The
Criminal Justice Program has also received preliminary
accreditation. The enrollment continues to grow and the College
still serves as a technical college with approximately 87% of
students enrolled in technical programs and the remaining
percentage enrolled in college transfer programs.
Dr. Richard Conrath, President of Cape Fear Community College,
expressed appreciation for past and current support of the College.
Facts and figures were presented on the growth of the college and
the efficient utilization of space at Cape Fear Community College.
Appreciation was expressed to the County Manager and his staff for
their cooperation during the budget process. The College is
satisfied with the budget request.
Commissioner Barone expressed appreciation to Dr. Conrath and
staff for the efficient use of the current space and stated an
ideal situation would be to pursue an arrangement with UNC-W for
use of space at night. Emphasis was placed on the importance of
Cape Fear Community College to our region.
BUDGET PRESENTATION BY NEW HANOVER COUNTY SCHOOLS
Ms. Janice Cavenaugh, Chairman of the Board of Education,
commented on the County Manager's reduction in the budget request
and asked the number of persons present to stand who are concerned
about the reduced funding. The Board of Education is aware of the
difficulty involved with raising the property tax rate to
accommodate school needs, but the Board of Education is also
responsible for reporting on the status of County schools and the
needs that are necessary to provide quality education for our
children. Funds are needed to meet these needs. When being
notified by the County Manager that the budget request should be
reviewed and cut, the budget request was reviewed and reluctantly
cut by the Board of Education as previously done in the proposed
bond issue.
The budget request is approximately $20.4 million in addition
to $7.5 million for capital improvements. According to studies, an
allowance of $240 per child is considered the appropriate figure to
budget in order to maintain school facilities. New Hanover County
is allowing $97 per child. Unfortunately, in New Hanover County
funds have been cut for maintenance in the past and the buildings
are in dire need of improvements. In this year's budget request,
additional money has been requested in order to perform
maintenance. Also, a comparative school funding study was
conducted by the N. C. Public School Form in North Carolina which
indicated that New Hanover County ranks 88th in the State for
school funding. It was also noted that Brunswick, Columbus,
Duplin, and Pender counties spend more money per child in school
funding according to the tax base than New Hanover County. Items
that have been included in the budget request, other than the
continuation budget, are items involving employees compensation,
including the 5% anticipated State raise and an increase in the
County supplement to teachers. Also, computerization of the
schools has been included in the budget request. New Hanover
County schools are behind and a computer should be in every
classroom.
As part of the budget process, a long-range plan has been
developed with the provision of a system with magnet schools and
schools of choice. This year, Gregory has been designated as the
first magnet school and all slots have been filled.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
BUDGET WORK SESSION AND PUBLIC HEARING, MAY 24, 1993
BOOK 25
PAGE 499
In summary, the Board of Education has tried to reduce the
budget request, but in order to meet the needs of the schools, the
Board does not feel the budget request can be reduced to the amount
requested by the County Manager and still provide quality education
for our children. The Commissioners were requested to approve a
budget that will cover the items presented.
Commissioner Sisson inquired as to whether funds have been
included for an increase in the County supplement for teachers and
if the State is going to end the Career Ladder Program which will
create a funding shortfall of $930,000 for the County?
Ms. Cavenaugh responded funds have been included for the 5%
State salary increase and County supplement for teachers.
Dr. Tom McNeel, Superintendent of Schools, reported in 1993-
94, there is a reduction of the Career Ladder Program. The
$130,000 in the budget will guarantee that our teachers will
maintain their supplement for next year. In 1994-95, the State
will reduce the amount of money by approximately $930,000 for New
Hanover County from a 7% level to a 5% level of the total certified
staff salaries. The Legislature does intend to reduce the program.
Commissioner Sisson commented on the rigid evaluations that
teachers have performed in order to be accepted in the Career
Ladder Program and expressed concern for this program now being
taken away by the State which has devastated many teachers.
Emphasis was placed on the need for State and School personnel to
protect and motivate our professional teachers. Also, there is
some question as to the figures reflecting the real capacity (the
number of students in classrooms and the number of teachers) in the
different schools and the difference between the projected
enrollment for next year. According to the real capacity figures
projected, there will be 214 students over capacity in the middle
schools with a total of 226 students under capacity in the middle
schools. In order to accommodate the 214 students over capacity,
seven trailers will be purchased at approximately $43,000 each for
a total of $300,000. The same is true for the high schools with
over capacity projected for Laney and Hoggard High Schools and an
under capacity of 172 students projected for New Hanover High
School which will require the purchase of seven trailers. It is
difficult to understand why trailers must be purchased,
particularly in the middle schools, with 214 students over capacity
and 226 students under capacity. It appears that some procedure
should be established to save on costs for accommodating capacity
needs, and shift these funds into personnel to accommodate the
teachers needs.
Ms. Cavenaugh reported only seven trailers are projected for
purchase and the figures presented are in draft form. Due to
children having more choices in the courses offered in the middle
and high schools such as band, foreign languages, or advanced
classes, the Board of Education would rather continue these classes
with small enrollments than eliminate the classes. If advanced
classes with small enrollments or exceptional children's classes
with small populations were eliminated and floating teachers were
utilized, 172 spaces could be found at New Hanover High School. The
Board of Education feels that redistricting children this year
would be foolish when a long-range plan has been developed to
involve magnet schools, which will require redistricting next year.
Commissioner Sisson agreed with Ms. Cavenaugh and emphasized
the importance of recognizing the magnitude of the funding problem
particularly with removal of the Career Ladder Program for teachers
and the fact that the Board of Education will be asking for more
money, if necessary, to meet their needs. However, the increase in
the school budget for last year added to the original request
submitted this year represents a 25% increase in County funding
over a two-year period, which is a tremendous increase.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
BUDGET WORK SESSION AND PUBLIC HEARING, MAY 24, 1993
BOOK 25
PAGE 500
Unfortunately, funding for schools lS removed from the general
fund, which is derived from property taxes, and in his opinion, it
would be ideal for the schools to have their own tax base, which he
hopes to discuss with the County Commissioners at a later date.
Until some source of revenue is established, the citizens of New
Hanover County must be factually informed on the amount of funds
needed for County schools to provide the quality of education
deserved by our children. The questions presented tonight have
been asked in an attempt to make sense out of rapidly escalating
costs for County schools, which both boards need to address and
work out a plan that will control these costs.
Ms. Cavenaugh expressed appreciation to Commissioner Sisson
for asking the questions and being given an opportunity to explain
the funding request. Open discussion of this type allows both
Boards to better understand the problems and funding needs.
Commissioner Sisson, agaln, reiterated
properly compensating teachers and school
constructing buildings to accommodate them.
the importance of
personnel before
Ms. Cavenaugh reported the Board of Education did cut from the
capital outlay budget as well as in design fees and land
acquisition for new buildings. No salary or supplement increases
were cut for the school employees.
Commissioner Sisson expressed appreciation for answering the
questions and stated he looks forward to continuing this type of
communication.
Commissioner Caster commented on recently attending several
school activities and complimented the teachers who prepared
programs and activities that showed many well trained and talented
children. In his opinion, real progress is being made in the
schools.
Commissioner Barone expressed appreciation to the Board of
Education for their hard work and efforts given in the expansion of
programs for school children, but expressed concern for the
following items: (1) top heavy in the number of administrative
positions; and (2) long distance telephone charges in the amount of
$11,000 per month for a total of $132,000 per year, not including
the $5,000 per month basic telephone charge. These funds could
educate 33 children. Commissioner Barone requested an explanation
of both concerns and recommended that something be done immediately
about the cost for telephone calls.
Ms. Cavenaugh reported the New Hanover County School System is
the largest employer in the County, the largest food service
operator; and the largest transportation system in the County.
Communication is vital and calls are made to Raleigh as well as
cities throughout the nation with children continuously coming from
other states. As to administration, it is perceived the schools
are top heavy in administration; however, since serving on the
Board of Education and asking if a position in administration could
be cut, no one has ever identified a specific position that could
be eliminated.
Dr. McNeel reported specific data detailing telephone charges
and calls will be forwarded to the Board of County Commissioners.
Telephone charges are extremely high because there are not enough
telephone lines to the schools. Each school should have telephones
that are accessible to teachers, and funds have been included in
the budget to install a new telephone system and replace the three
antiquated systems now being used.
with respect to administrative positions, when relocating and
becoming Superintendent of Schools in New Hanover County, the
School System at that time had a Superintendent, an Associate
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
BUDGET WORK SESSION AND PUBLIC HEARING, MAY 24, 1993
BOOK 25
PAGE 501
Superintendent, and four Assistant Superintendents. The School
System now has a Superintendent and three other persons
representing a 40% reduction in the top level of administration.
Below this level, the supervisors in math, science, social studies,
etc. are very important to the teachers and students.
In summary, the main item to consider is providing a quality
education to our children who will be our future leaders.
BREAK
Chairman Greer called a break from 8:20 P.M. until 8:35 P.M.
PUBLIC HEARING ON RECOMMENDED FY 1993-94 BUDGET
Chairman Greer opened the Public Hearing and requested all
persons to limit their remarks to three minutes.
Mr. Charles Dean reported on last year's budget hearing when
Chairman Greer requested the Commissioners to hold the line on
expenditures and adopt a budget within the revenues generated.
Since that time the public has spoken and three former County
Commissioners were not re-elected. The Board was urged to listen
to the people and operate County government within the revenues
received, which will not require an increase in the property tax.
The people do not want further growth of government.
Mr. Tom Townsend, representing the New Hanover County Veterans
Council composed of 15,000 veterans, reported the proposed funding
allocation of $20,000 for FY 1993-94 is not satisfactory. In
surrounding counties, Pender County is spending $30,689 for a
Veterans Services Office and Brunswick is spending $60,582 for a
Veterans Services Office. The Commissioners were requested to open
a County Veterans Services Office at a cost of $40,000.
Ms. Eda Fitzpatrick reported on the improvement of the school
system during the past twenty years and the need for teachers to
learn the latest techniques. Property taxes in New Hanover County
are low and increasing the property tax to better educate our
children will not hurt anyone. It is ridiculous to think if prices
go up that taxes will not go up. Also, some form of an impact tax
should be charged to persons moving into the County to cover the
additional costs for the provision of schools, public assistance,
and infrastructure needs. There are plenty of retirees that can
afford a tax increase, and it is hoped that New Hanover County will
not become a community of ancient golfers its young people leaving
town.
Mr. Peter Fensel, Vice-Chairman of the Wilmington Industrial
Development Committee, reported on the Committee's 9-year average
of $72 million in new and/or expanding proj ects of which $29
million is new industry. This is a significant fact, and it is
imperative to continue to recruit new industry to our area to
expand the job base, increase the tax base, increase charitable
contributions, and increase the base of community leadership. The
Commissioners were requested to fully support the funding request
as submitted.
Commissioner Barone inquired as to the amount of the funding
request?
Mr. Fensel reported the Committee has requested $60,000 with
a recommendation of $40,000.
Commissioner Barone stated the budget notebook reflects an
original budget request of $45,000 and asked if this is a correct
figure?
Mr. Fensel reported the Committee requested $60,000 this year.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
BUDGET WORK SESSION AND PUBLIC HEARING, MAY 24, 1993
BOOK 25
PAGE 502
County Manager O'Neal reported the Wilmington Industrial
Development Committee requested $60,000 last year with an
allocation of $45,000. The budget request for this year is $45,000
with recommended funding of $40,000.
Mr. Fensel reported the Committee requested $45,000 because of
a letter received from the County Manager which requested that no
budget requests be more than the amount appropriated last year.
Commissioner Barone expressed appreciation to the Wilmington
Industrial Development Committee and DARE for their efforts to
entice good, healthy businesses to locate in our area which is
beneficial to all citizens.
Ms. Amy Hamme, representing the Child Advocacy Commission,
expressed appreciation for the recommended funding of $18,000 and
stated, however, the Commission could use the additional $2,000.
A report was presented on the programs and services rendered by the
Child Advocacy Commission. Fifty-seven agencies are now working
with the Child Advocacy Commission to provide services that will
reduce the juvenile delinquency rate in New Hanover County.
Commissioner Sisson expressed appreciation for the number of
programs being rendered by the Child Advocacy Commission and the
number of community agencies that have become involved in this
effort.
Commissioner Barone inquired as to the new program in Raleigh?
Ms. Hamme reported the Child Resource and Referral Program in
Raleigh has just been started and has been most successful. The
Child Advocacy Commission and the Housing Authority coordinated the
various agencies to provide training to women once a week for eight
weeks on the importance of good nutrition, child abuse prevention,
child safety issues, etc., which has enabled these women to become
registered day care providers. The program is simple; however, the
results are wonderful. The local Housing Authority and Child
Advocacy Commission will hear a presentation on the Raleigh program
on June 4. Hopefully, the same program will be implemented in New
Hanover County.
Ms. Debbie Hobbs, representing the Community Penalties
Program, reported the local program for the 5th District is one of
twenty programs across the State of North Carolina that works with
criminal non-violent offenders. The local program is entering its
eighth year and the Board of Directors and staff are most
appreciative of past support and the funding recommended for FY
1993-94.
Dr. Jack Morgan, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the
Food Bank of Coastal Carolina, Inc. presented a report explaining
the miscommunication and misunderstanding on the $15,000 funding
request. After review by the Board of Directors, it is recommended
that the County find another agency to distribute the USDA
commodities with the $15,000 funding appropriation. To permit
continui ty in the program while the County looks for another
distributing agency, the Food Bank is willing to perform the July
commodities distribution and the necessary re-certification of
eligible recipients if the County contracts with the N. C.
Department of Agriculture for the program. Distribution expenses
would be submitted to the County Manager for his submission to the
N. C. Department of Agriculture with distribution fees returned to
the County, which would then reimburse the Food Bank for expenses
allowed by the N. C. Department of Agriculture. When the County
designates another agency to handle the commodities program, the
Food Bank will gladly share its forms, know-how, and records
pertaining to the commodities program. The Food Bank strongly
urges the Commissioners to continue the USDA commodities
distribution program which is so vital to low income families who
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
BUDGET WORK SESSION AND PUBLIC HEARING, MAY 24, 1993
BOOK 25
PAGE 503
receive these foods and are in need of nutritious foods to prevent
future health problems.
Chairman Greer inquired as to whether the Food Bank and Mother
Hubbard's Cupboard will be able to operate without being affiliated
with the Food Bank of North Carolina?
Dr. Morgan reported it is anticipated that the food programs
will continue to operate.
Ms. Tannis Nelson, President of the New Hanover County Council
of PTA's, encouraged the Commissioners to put children first and
reconsider the budget request presented by the Board of Education.
Mr. David Morgan, Chairman of the School Advisory Committee
for H. C. Bellamy Elementary School, inquired as to why the County
Commissioners cut the educational needs of our children as one of
the first items reduced in the recommended budget. Children are our
future. The elementary schools need full time Assistant
Principals, additional aides in the classrooms, and the provision
of technology for all classes, not just a lucky few. Teachers
should be fairly compensated and additional teachers are needed for
specialized areas. The Commissioners were urged to grant the 13%
increase in the school budget as requested by the Board of
Education. As a concerned parent, I am willing to pay additional
taxes to fund the schools.
Chairman Greer reported the schools have received more
increases than any other County agency. At one time the schools
received the largest share of tax dollars; however, the Department
of Social Services now receives the largest share with the schools
ranking second.
Ms. Carmen Brewington, President of the New Hanover County
Association of Educators representing over 1,000 teachers, reported
on the need to approve the 10% supplement salary in order for New
Hanover County to remain competitive across the State. Teachers
have not received an increase in supplement pay for 10 years. The
young, bright and creative teachers hired by New Hanover County are
leaving our area after five years to work in Wake County, Guilford
County, Mecklenburg County, and Forsyth County who have supplements
higher than New Hanover County. Surveys indicate that taxpayers
are willing to pay for the best teachers and the best schools.
The Commissioners were urged to provide a line item in the FY 1993-
94 budget to provide a 10% increase in the teachers supplement.
Ms. Linda Pearce, Director of Elderhaus, Inc., expressed
appreciation for the continued funding support of Elderhaus. Also,
as a matter of information, Elderhaus is now hiring senior citizens
to work with seniors as well as hiring persons from the Department
of Social Services who are in need of jobs. This will help to
reduce the welfare roles.
Commissioner Caster inquired as to the current housing for
Elderhaus and asked if this problem has been resolved?
Ms. Pearce reported St. Paul's Episcopal Church has housed the
Elderhaus program at a nominal fee for 10 years. The church now
needs the area for parking and has given Elderhaus the house, but
the structure cannot be moved. Negotiations are being held with
the Church, who is very supportive of the program, and it is felt
that an arrangement for housing will be found.
Commissioner Sisson commented on the need for church parking
spaces within the City and recommended placing this item on the
agenda as a discussion item at the next joint meeting with the
Wilmington City Council.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
BUDGET WORK SESSION AND PUBLIC HEARING, MAY 24, 1993
BOOK 25
PAGE 504
Mr. R. F. Carter, a concerned citizen, reported on the number
of agencies that request and expect funding from the County's
General Fund, which is the property tax, and expressed concern for
continuing to fund these agencies plus other agencies. Two
paragraphs were read from the National Geographic Magazine
concerning a country where individuals were receiving vacations
wi th pay; maternity leave; child support payments; retirement
payments for both men and women; free health care and free
education. This country was Russia. If this country and county
continue to support increasing budgets for governments, escalating
welfare costs and unending requests for government programs, the
monetary base of its citizens will be completely eroded through
addi tional taxes. The Commissioners were urged to stop taxing
County citizens to the point of destruction and to the point where,
one day, people will have to react.
Ms. Debra Palmer, a concerned citizen, reported children do
not vote; therefore, they do not have a voice in government and
cannot stand up for their educational needs. If people are opposed
to a tax increase for support of the schools, they should volunteer
to work in the schools to meet these unmet needs. Many schools are
using 30-year old equipment, teachers are floating from classroom
to classroom, aides are needed to assist the teachers, and updated
equipment and computers are needed in every school. The
Commissioners were urged to fund the budget request submitted by
the Board of Education and fund the educational needs for our
children.
Mr. Harold R. Fussell, expressed appreciation to the Board of
County Commissioners for removing the bureaucracy from the New
Hanover Regional Medical Center Board of Trustees. He also
complimented the Budget Director for an excellent job in preparing
the budget. However, one item of concern is the recommended
funding for the Animal Control Center in the amount of $434,000
with only $20,000 appropriated for the New Hanover County Veterans
and no funding included for the homeless. Many years ago, New
Hanover County had a Veterans Services Office, and it seems unfair
that adequate funds cannot be found to establish a Veterans
Services Office for the 19,000 veterans who served our country,
many of which are now disabled, and are in need of services.
Judge Jacqueline Morris-Goodson, a parent and member of the
Blount Elementary Advisory Committee, requested the Commissioners
to approve the additional 13.5% increase requested by the Board of
Education in order to meet the educational needs of our children.
Emphasis was placed on the providing the necessary tools to educate
our children so they can compete for jobs as adults.
Mr. Joseph Madsen commented on his personal budget, which is
always very tight, and the manner in which he has to prioritize
needs. He urged the Commissioners to do the same and keep
expenditures within the revenues generated in order to avoid a tax
lncrease.
Mr. Wade Smith, a mathematics teacher at Laney High School,
commented on the difficulty of teaching in a trailer and being a
floating teacher and urged the Commissioners to consider the
educational needs and approve the budget request submitted by the
Board of Education.
Commissioner Caster requested Superintendent McNeel to provide
figures on the turnover rate for teachers in New Hanover County.
Dr. McNeel responded he would be glad to prepare a report.
Mr. Keith Buckindale, a new County resident, requested the
Commissioners to support the Board of Education's original budget
request in order to provide a high quality of education to our
children. New Hanover County is a wonderful place to live and in
order to attract new people and businesses, quality education must
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
BUDGET WORK SESSION AND PUBLIC HEARING, MAY 24, 1993
BOOK 25
PAGE 505
be provided to the children attending New Hanover County schools.
The County government should support this effort.
Ms. Donna Neal, Chairman of the Animal Control Advisory
Committee, expressed appreciation to the County Commissioners for
funding a new Animal Control Facility in the FY 1993-94 Budget.
Chairman Greer closed the Public Hearing.
MEETING CONTINUED UNTIL JUNE 1, 1993
Discussion was held on continuing the meeting ln order to
discuss the public comments received.
Chairman Greer reported a Special Meeting has been scheduled
for June 1, 1993, to discuss the New Hanover Regional Medical
Center Revenue Bond Issue, and if convenient, this meeting could be
continued after the Special Meeting has been adjourned.
Consensus: After discussion, it was the consensus of the Board to
continue the meeting until Tuesday, June 1, 1993, after the Special
Meeting in order to discuss the proposed FY 1993-94 Budget.
Chairman Greer recessed the meeting at 10:10 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
Lucie F. Harrell
Clerk to the Board
r'
MINUTES OF BUDGET WORK SESSION AND PUBLIC HEARING
MAY 24, 1993
PAGE 505
be provided to the children attending New Hanover County schools.
The County government should support this effort.
Ms. Donna Neal, Chairman of the Animal Control Advisory
Committee, expressed appreciation to the County Commissioners for
funding a new Animal Control Facility in the FY 1993-94 Budget.
Chairman Greer closed the Public Hearing.
MEETING CONTINUED UNTIL JUNE 1, 1993
Discussion was held on continuing the meeting in order to
discuss the public comments received.
Chairman Greer reported a Special Meeting has been scheduled
for June 1, 1993, to discuss the New Hanover Regional Medical
Center Revenue Bond Issue, and if convenient, this meeting could be
continued after the Special Meeting has been adjourned.
Consensus: After discussion, it was the consensus of the Board to
continue the meeting until Tuesday, June 1, 1993, after the Special
Meeting in order to discuss the proposed FY 1993-94 Budget.
Chairman Greer recessed the meeting at 10:10 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
~:(~
Clerk to the Board
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