1969-05-05 Regular Meeting~324 ~
Minutes of the Meeting - May 5, 1969 9:00 A. M.
1
ASSEMBLY -
The regular semi-monthly meeting of the New Hanover County Board of Commissloners was held
on the above date and time in the Commissioners' Room with the following present: Vice-
Chairman Meares Harriss, Jr., Commissioners John Van B. Metts, Jr., H. A, Marks, Berry A.
Wiliiams; County Administrator Laurence 0. Bowden; County Auditor Perry Shepard; and Hazel
Savage, Clerk to the Board.
Chairman J. M. Hall, Jr. was out of town.
INVOCATION -
In the absence of the Chairman, Vice-Chairman Meares Harriss, Jr. called the meeting to
order and in the absence of the scheduled minister, asked Mrs. Maggie Jones, Mews Reporter,
Lo give the invocation.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES -
Mr. Marks requested the following corrections to the minutes of April 21, 1969:
1. On Page !} - Under the heading "Community Consultant" - Every place where the words
"Community Consultant" are used should be changed to read "Community Services Consultant".
2. On Page 6- Under the heading "Transfers and Appropriations (Continued)" second
paragraph should be deleted and the following inserted: "Mr. Marks thanked Mr. Shepard for
statements of income accounts which had been furnishcd the Commissioners. Mr. Marks said they
were most helpful in evaluating current financial condition of the County."
After making the above corrections, Mr. Metts moved, seconded by Mr. Marks, that the minutes
be approved. Motion earried.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES, BOARD OF EQUALIZATION AND REVIEW -
There being no corrections to the minutes of the Board of Equalization and Review, sub-
mitted by Mr. Peter H. Braak, Tax SuperSisor, Mr. Marks moved, seconded by Mr. Wiltiams, Lhat
the minutes of the three meetings held on April 8, 14 and 21, 1969, be approved as written.
Motion carried.
REPORTS -
No reports were due by or through the County Commissioners.
REPORT BY MR. SAM JOHNSON, TAX COLLECTOR -
Mr. Sam Johnson appeared before the Board to give a report on collection of taxes. Follow-
ing is statement which he presented:
1968 New Hanover Countv Tax Levy
May 5, 1969
LEVY
LATE LISTINGS
TOTAL LEVY
Collections thru 4/25/69
l~,003,333.21
10 ,lt02.1~1G
4,a13,735.65
3,63o,76i.3~
BACH TAX COLLECTIONS THRU L}/30/60
YEAR
TOTAL COLLECTED
1967 _ 49,801.00
1966 18,928.64
1965 lo,i94•42
1964 1~, 780.07
1963 2,671.73
Prior 5,508.78
9i,6u4.64
Mr. Johnson mentioned that he felt it was going to be more advantageovs having the same
cut-off date (June 30) for both City and County. Collections might be down the first year but
next year the County should be better off.
Mr. Johnson said that for the last five years taxes have been collected at a rate above
95 percent.
Mr. Williams asked for a brief run down on procedures that are being followed in collection
of taxes.
Mr. Johnson said garnishment has not been tried this year because 50~ of garnishments in
the courts have run into trouble in the new Court System. Mr. Williams inquired whether accounts
in banks haue been attached. Mr. Johnson said it was difficult to determine whether people had
accounts; the banks flo not give out bank balances over the phone, not even to ptrsons.having
aCCOUnts. Mr. Harfiss was of the opinion that if notice were served on banks thaL accounLs
would be attached, then the banks would have a legal obligation to furnish this information.
Mr. Metts suggested that Mr. Johnson check into this matter in order to be aware of the situation.
Mr. Johnson informed the Board that collection is made with the exception of about one-
half percent of the levy. Mr. Williams expressed the fact that he is pleased with such a good
percentage, but speaking of bank accounts thinks effort should be made to garnish account as
well as salary.
Mr. Williams said he did not understand question of insolvency. Mr. Johnson advised that
it is not his duty to declare any one insolvent; that is the duty of the Board of County
Commissloners. Mr. Williams inquired whether or not in the past a list had not been made up
by Mr. Johnson. Mr, Johnson said it had until last year when he was ill and was unable to
prepare the list fdr.1968. 'Mr. Williams said he would like for such a list to be prepared,
and Mr. Johnson asked the question whether the Commissioners wanted him to stop collections
f 32v ~
Minutes of the Meeting - May 5, 1969 (Continued)
REPORT BY MR. SAM JOHNSON, TAX COLLECTOR (CONTINUED) -
and prepare this instead. Mr. Marks Said Mr. Johnson was better able to determine which to
do; that he knew the list was one of his responsibilities. Further, it was pointed out the
tax rate is based on the amount collected.
Mr. Harriss commended Mr. Johnson for his very fine report and assured him of the Board's
cooperation.
Mr. Williams requested Nfr. Johnson prepare a list of total back taxes due at this time for
the last eight or ten years to see how they compare. Mr. Johnson said he was willing to do so,
but calied attention to the fact that the levy differs from year to year. There is a fluctua-
tion from year to year. It will not be possible to compare dollarwise because of tax increases
from year to year. Mr. Johnson pointed out for the last five years there has been over 95~
collection of taxes. Mr. Harriss inquired of Mr. Johnson whether there was anything the Com-
missioners could do, bearing in mind we are seeking a full time County Attorney, to further
collection of back taxes. Mr. Johnson asked whether or not the Board feit the full time
County Attorney would be hesitant in foreclosing on property in the City or Beaches. Mr.
Harriss said he felt this could be handled and so did Mr. Marks. Mr. Harriss assured Mr.
Johnson he would get full cooperation from the full time County Attorney.
TRANSFERS AND APPROPRIATIONS -
Mr. Shepard presented request for the following appropriations:
To - County Farm - Fuei $ 253.12
County Farm - Groceries 1,000.00
County Farm - Medicine 175.00
Superior Court Cost - Indigent 215.50
Fr.om - General Contingency Fund
$1,643.62
Mr. Metts moved, seconded by Mr. Williams that the requests, as recommended by the
County Auditor, be approved. Motion carried.
JAIL REQUEST FOR STOUE
A letter from Mr. Joe E. Johnson, Jailer, requesting a new stove for the Jail was
presented to the Commissioners by County Administrator Laurence O. Bowden. Mr. Bowden
recommended purchase of a new stove, inasmuch as the present one is more than ten years old and
is in need of repairs. Mr. Williams moved, seconded by Mr. Marks, that Mr. Johnson~s request
for a new stove be approved in the amount of $568.56, funds coming from the General Contingency
Fund. Motion carrled.
SCHQOL BOARD REQUEST FOR TRANSFER OF FUNDS - ,
A letter from the School Board requesting the following transfers within their budget
was discussed:
From - Buildings 8 Grounds - Materials $6,000
To - Fuel $6,000
From - Heating, Lighting 8 Plumbing !}50
To - Insurance 450
Mr. Williams expressed the feeling that as the County comes to the end of a fiscal year,
if a department sees they have money left over, Lhey are inclined to go ahead and buy, but
if we ever get to the point we do not have a surplus at the end of a fiscal year, we will
be in trouble. Also, Mr. Williams feels an oral or written explanation stating why the
transfer is required should be submitted by each department with their request.
Mr. NYarks moved, seconded by Mr. Metts, that the requests for transfers within the
School Budget be approved., Motion carried. ,
Mr. Williams said he was going along with approval of the requestseven though there is
no written or oral explanation as to why these requests are necessary, but he would like it
understood that in the future oral or written explanations will be required. By common
consent it was agreed that Mr. Bowden advise all depar~.ments of this requirement.
Mr. Harriss said he agreed with Mr. Williams and suggested that budgets be scrutinized
in light of transfers that have been made before seLting 1969-70 budgets.
REPORT BY ARCHITECT ON HEALTH DEPARTMENT AND MENTAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT RELOCATING AT OLD JAfN~S
WALKER HOSPITAL -
Mr. Herbert P. McHim and Mr. John R. Jefferies, ArchiLects, from the firm of Ballard,
McKim Sawyer, presented a feasibility outline of proposed renovations to James Walker Hospital
for housing the Ncw Hanover County Health Department and New Hanover County Mental Health
Center. Dr. Knox was present as an observer from the Health Department and Mr. Homer Davls
as an observer from the Advisory Board of Mental Health.
Mr. Marks had previously been asked by the Board of County Commissioners to engage an
architect to make a study of the building at the old James Waiker Complex for use by the
Health Department and the Mental Health Clinic. Mr. Marks.said,he was in hopes of getting
the plans in shape prior to July 1 in order t.o let the contract as early thereafter as
possible. ~
Mr. McKim presented the study. He said they did not have a detailed plan. The report
was based on:
I- Existing Conditions - James Walker Hospital - Men's Wing and X-Ray Building -
Building is structurally sound, fireproof, and has adequate parking. Heating and Air Con-
ditioning System w;ll be required; some vinyl floors will have to be replaced; complete
paint ,job on interior is needed; wood windows should be repaired, although cheaper to
replace with aluminum. Existing elevator is operable . There is a gross area per floor of
5,558 square feet or total of 16,671} square feet.
The area occupied by the Health Department~now in Fourth Street Buiiding is 6,880 square
feet and Lab in basement of Courthouse ~92 square feet, total 7,672. The area occupied now
by the Mental Health Center is 1,625 square feet in a rented building on South 17th Street.
! 326"
Minutes of the Meeting, May 5, 1969
II - Anticipated Needs:
An estimated increase of 2$% of existing space is needed to handle present situation in
the Heaith Department now which would amount to 2,000 square feet and it is the opinion of the
staff that the Department will have a normal five year growth of as much as 50% which will be
another 4,000 square feet. This results in estimated need for the Health Department of 13,672
square feet. The staff also anticipates additional Health Department responsibilities which
will require more space and this should be kept in mind.
The Mental Health Center staff indicates a need for approximately ten additional personnel.
Space requirements include offices, conference room, and group therapy room. These needs pro~ject
an estimated 100% increase in space due to natural growth, total requirement 3,250 square feet.
The architect's report said the cost of renovation and possibly adding to the hospital will
be considerably less cost to the County than a new building, and, at the same time, make use
of property and structure already owned by the County. Renovation of the present 16,671} square
feet (gross area) $10.00/sq. ft. will cost $166,750.00. To add 3,000 square feet of new con-
struction to existing building would cost $25.00/sq. ft. or $75,000, grand totai of $21}1,750.00.
The architect recommended that New Hanover County proceed with renovation of wing under
consideration, move the Health Department and the Mental Health Center into the existing building,
begin a"Master Plan" of the building and surrounding areas for future expansion. This should
include the entire two block area on which these buildings are located; determine parking require-
ments and renovate parking facilities as required. The architect recommended that for future
action the master plan be re-evaluated as county policy and thinking requires. It is possible
for this two block area to house many of the county offices.
Dr. Knox discussed reason for additional space needed by the Health Department now and in
the future. He said home care of the aged had been "thrown in our laps" and to meet standards
now wnuld require an additional 15 registered nurses plus two additional sanitarians and two
clerks, and he was afraid they would need a Nutritionist also.
A discussion was held on whether or not the laboratory is needed at this time. Dr. Knox
said he has enough material to justify the laboratory. He said it is the second largest test-
wise in the State.
Mr. Marks referred to a report recently Purnished by the Health Department wherein a list
of counties was furnished who have laboratories. Mr. Marks pointed out that several of these
counties do not have labs now. Mr. Marks said he had visited several counties attd expected to
visit more and invited Dr. Knox to got~dth him.
Mr. Marks said he had reason to question whether operating this lab is a necessity or a
convenience, but said he had an open mind on the laboratory. Mr. Williams suggested that the
Board get on with the proposal before it now before taking up study of the lab.
Mr. McKim informed the Board that the additional space to be provided the Health Department
wouid amonnt to about an 80% increase in their space.
Mr. N~rks moved, seconded by Mr. Metts, that the Board accept the preliminary report and
authorize the architect to proceed with the development of detailed plans for renovation, con-
sulting with each department, and to prepare cost estimateS for consideration. Motion carried.
Mr. McKim was asked how much a new building of this size would cost. Mr. McKim replied
about one-half million dollars plus the land. Mr. Marks suggested the lab be left where it is
now.
RENOVATION OF 58H GREEN STAMP BUILDING -
Mr. Herbert Mc}(im and Mr. John Jefferies from the firm of Ballard McKim and Sawyer presented
report on their study of renovating the S&H Green Stamp Building to be used for the County
Commissioners~ Meeting Room, Office for County Administrator, Office for County Attorney,Confe-
rence Room for ten to twelve persons, Storage Room Suitable for Future Office, File Room, Space
for four Secretaries, Public 8 Employee Toilets, Work Area for Board of Elections, Conference
Room for Board of Elections, Storage Room for Board of Elections. Mr. McKim said there is
absolutely nothing left inside the building in the way of partitions, suspended ceilings,
electrical fixtures, heating and air conditioning.
It was pointed out that the main entrance as shown by the architect would be on the south
side of the building.
Mr. Wiiliams moved, seconded by Mr. Metts, that the architect be avthorized to go ahead
with detailed plans with provisions for alternates as to entrances.
Mr. Metts inquired whether it had been determined that there will be space for another
courtroom in the Commissioners~ Room. Mr. Harriss said it had been determined that the room
is adequaie; that Judge Mintz said it could be used. Mr. Metts felt something definite should
be decided before going ahead with present plans for use of the S&H Green Stamp Building.
Mr. Metts expr.essed the desire to delay decision on plans for the S&H Green Stamp Building
for two weeks.
Mr. Harriss said the Commissioners~ Room was accessible to the Sheriff~s Office, Jail,
and Records which makes it desirable for a courtroom. Mr. Metts said the Board had not had a
report from the committee appointed to make a study of space in the courthouse.
Mr. Marks said he had the privilege to talk with Judge Mintz recently and that Judge Mintz
had raised the question of whether the Board had an overall pian for space in the courthouse.
Judge MinLz said he though 3t would be wise for the Board to go slow until it has a complete
plan.
Mr. Williams pointed out there was a question about the need for an additional courtroom,
space for jail, etc „ but there is no question that there is a need for an office for a full
time County Attorney, space for elections~ office and an office which would be more svitahle
for the County AdministraLor. Mr. Williams said with these things in mind the Board might
go ahead and approve these plans.
~
,
•32'7
Minutes of the Meeting, May 5, 1969 Continued
Mr. Metts made a substitute motion, seconded by Mr. Marks, that proceeding with plan on
renovation of the S8H Green Stamp Building be deferred until such time as the Board has the
results of an overall study of space in the covrthouse. Motion carried. Mr. Williams
abstained from voting.
REQUEST FOR TRANSFER OF FUNDS WITHIN AIRPORT BUDGET -
A letter From Mr. John A. Westbrook, Airport Manager, requesting transfer of $$00 from
Suilding Repairs to Salaries in order to hire an extra man to drive a tractor-mower was
discussed.
Mr. Williams moved, seconded by Mr. Marks, that request be approved. Motfon carried.
REQUEST FOR TRANSFER OF FUNDS WITHIN PRISON FARM BUDGET FOR THREE MENIDERS OF PERSONNEL TO
ATTEND JAIL AND DETENTION SCHOOL WHICH IS REQUIRED BY G. 5. 153-53.5
Mr. Metts moved, seconded by Mr. Williams that the personnel at the Prison Farm who
have not attended a Jail and Detention School be authorized to do so, funds coming from
General Contingency Fund. Motion carried.
REOUEST FOR TRANSFER OF FUNDS WITHIN CIVIL DEFENSE BUDGET TO PURCHASE ELECTRIC TYPEWRITER
Request from Civil Defense Director, Andrew H. Harriss, Jr., for permission to purchase
a second-hand Underk~ood Olivetti 13" carriage typewriter from Harrison Typewriter Company
for $225 was discussed. Upon recommendation of Mr. Botirden, Mr. Metts moved, seconded by
Mr. Marks, that this request be approved, subject to approval of the City, the $225 being
transferred within the Civil Defense Budget. Motion carried unanimously.
WELFARE DEPARTMENT REQUESTS FOR TRANSFERS -
Nr. ('~ rks presented the following Welfare Board Requests for Transfers:
May 5, 1969
WELFARE BOARD REQUEST
TRANSFER FROM SALARIES ~1%
$ 1000.00 to Stationery 8 Suppl3es $ 510.00
1000.00 to Travel 510.00
2l~00.00 to Equipment (Carpeting,
tables 8 chairs for offices
8 conference rooms 122 .00
$ 1}LE00.00 $ 22 .00
TRANSFER FROM OUT-PATIENT BUDGET 100%
Transporting Indi~ent $ 1000.00
General Assistance 500.00
Building Items 32!}0.00
Floor Machine 725.00
~ 5465.00
x#ib##i'e#s`S~:F#-..'~#ic:: i'c ~~c?t#i.'-#iY° :;-:cii~iHHF #',F## ~~'.ri'. ~ iP##iY.: #irXib$P##iF9i.n. ~(-~ ~#u####~5#i: 3Ykitu#iHFi: ##i£-k' #####~'.v#o~####iHF#
BUILDING
Door Closures $ 205.00
Brick Work {Ends of Steps) 1000.00
Tile (Record Room) 180.00
51gns (Welfare Bldg., Food Stamps &
Visitors Parking) 150.00
Additional Electric Outlets 15$.00
Venetian Blinds 1550.00
Total $ 3240.00
Mr. Williams suggested that all requests for, transfers or appropriations be in prior to
the CommissionersT meetings.
Mr. Metts mnved, seconded by Mr. Williams, that the Board approve the requests as set
forth on the Welfare Board's Memo of May 5, sub,ject to meeting all legal requirements and
without the brick work under Building item; that attempt be made to get brick work done through
some industrial program. Motion carried.
AUTHORIZATION FOR 5-COUNTY CONiP7[lNITY SERVICES CONSULTANT -
Mr. Bowden, County Administrator, reported on results of ineeting of committee appointed
to make study of needs for a Community,Services Consultant. Mr. Bowden said Miss Lela
Moore Hall, Mr. Marks, and Mr. Joe Medlin endorsed a fuli time Community Services Consul-
tant and that Mr. Timothy Wood and he did not concvr because they felt there was a tremendous
amount of duplication. Mr. Bowden felt the Southeastern Economic Development Commission
and other agencies could handle this service.
Mr. Williams said the Southeastern Economic Development Commission is not as involved
at this time as it will be within the next year. At the executive meeting in Burgaw it was
stressed the Commission should get involved more strongly than ever in health problems. Mr.
Williams felt there is an overlap of such services.
~328 ~ . °
Minutes of the Meet3ng, May 5, 1969 Continued
Mr. Metts suggested possibility that the Board get together with Mr. Joe B. Medlin,
Executive Director, Community Council, and the committee appointed to make the study.
Mr. Harriss said the Board had the recommendations from the committee appointed to make
a study, and he felt there were three courses to take; 1. To accept, 2. Ask them to continue
their study with additional factors in mind, and 3. To reject.
Mr. Metts moved, seconded by Mr. Williams, that the study be continued with additional
factors being considered and help from Mr. Auerbach, State Pianning Director of North Carolina
United, and Mr. Berry A. Williams. Motion carried.
WELFARE REQUEST FOR ADDITIONAL RENT FOR PRESENT PARKING LOT -
Mr. Marks informed the Board that the Welfare Department will not be able to move until
June 1, therefore an additional $100 is needed for rent of the parking lot on Market Street
for the month of May. The Weifare Department requests that they be permitted to transfer this
from their Salary Account.
Mr. Metts moved, seconded by Mr. N~rks, that request to transfer $100 from the Salary
Account to Parking within the Welfare Budget be approved. Notion carried.
FUNDS FOR UNDERWRITING BANQUET HONORING MESSRS. JOE HUNT AND ASHLEY NNRPHY WHO ARE RETIRING
FROM THE STATE HIGHWAY COMMISSION -
Informal approval had previously been given to help underwrite a banquet which the Chamber
of Commerce is planning in honor of Messrs. Joe Hunt and Ashley Murphy who are retiring from
the State Highway Commission up to an amount of $150.00. Mr. Marks moved that formal approval
be given for the County to help underwrite expense of banquet to honor these men not to exceed
$150, funds coming from the Contingency Fund. Motion carried. By common consent Mr. Bowden
will make reservations for members of the Commission wishing to attend.
ROAD PETITIONt CHANNEL HAVEN SUBDIVISION -
Road petition requesting the State Highway Department to add roads in Channel Haven
Subdivision to the 5econdary Road System was presented to the Board for resolution requesting
the State Highway to do this. Mr. Williams moved, seconded by Mr. Marks, that the standard
reso2ution be adopted and the State Highway be requested to add these roads to the Secondary
Road System. Motion carried.--
ROAD PETITIONz KINGS GRANT
Road petition requesting the State Highway Department to add roads in Kings Grant
Subdivision to the Secondary Road System was presented to the Board for adoption of resolution
to this effect. Mr. Williams moved, seconded by Mr. Marks, that the standard resolution be
adopted and the petition and resolution be forwarded to the State Highway Commission for
their Consideration. Motion carried.
REQUEST PREPARATION OF LOCAL BILL, WATERSHED ACT -
Mr. Bowden, County Administrator, reported that the office was in
on an application to the 5oi1 Conservation Service for A Watershed Stu
talked with Mr. Samuel Cox, District Conservationist. and Mr. Cox said
Service wanted to be certain that the County had legislative authority
the project. After a discussion of this, Mr. Williams moved, seconded
Board request the County Attorney to proceed with legislation enabling
pate in a Watershed Program. Motion carried.
the process of working
~y. Mr. Fox said he had
the Soil Conservation
to get involved with
by Mr. Metts, that the
the County to partici-
Mr. Bowden said the Soil Conservation Service would not be inclined to do a study for
the County if we do not have legislation that will allow us to utilize the study.
DISCUSSIONt COLLECTION OF TAXES ON VEHICLES -
A letter addressed to Tax Supervisors and Collectors of North Carolina from Mr. Henry
E. Sands, President, A!. C. Assessors Association, was discussed. Mr. Sands~ letter says the
Legislative Committee of the North Carolina Assessors Association is opposed to a House Bill
that gives people over 65 years of age a$2,000 exemption and to the Senate Billto reclassify
farm land. The Committee is also opposed to the deletion of poll tax, dog tax, and intangible
tax. The Committee is opposed to anything that would erode the tax base because any tax
deleted would be added to the real estate. The Committee recommended that the Legislature
raise the price of the farm census from $.20 to $.$0 per name because the counties are losing
money at the present rate. In regard to vehicles the Committee recommended that the State
Board of Assessment set the tax, uniform, state-wide and let the State include this County
tax on each registration card, thus removing the vehicles from the abstract. The owner could
then buy his license only after paying his State, County, and City tax. The State would
return the County money to them along with a list of the people so they could be sure of
getting all the vehicles listed.
After a brief discussion of this, by common consent it was agreed that Mr. Marks shovld
discuss this letter with the Association of County Commissioners.
REGISTER OF DEEDS. SENATE BILL ~389 - PROPOSED AMENDI'~NTS TO U.C,C. -
Mr. Harriss mentioned the fact that informal approval had been given to the Association
of Register of Deeds and the New Hanover County Register of Deeds in their efforts in opposing
the proposed amendments of the Bar Association to the U.C.C, Approval was confirmed at the
meeting.
CONSIDER ADOPTION OF EXAMINATION PROCEDURE TO ASSURE THAT THE EXAMINATIONS GIVEN TO EACH
PROSPECTIVE COUNTY EMPLOYEE FOR EACH JOB CLASSIFICATION SHALL BE UNIFORM AND EQUI'TABLY APPLIED.
AL50, THAT THE PROVISIONS OF SPEC:IAL ACT, CHAPTER 578. PASSED BY THE 1.939 SESSION OF THE GENERAL
ASSEMBLY, ARE COMPLIED WITH -
Mr. Williams said he had asked that this item be placed on the agenda and without any
discussion, he would like to refer this to the County Administrator for his recommendations at
the next meeting. Mr. Willfams feels every person who makes application for employment with
the County should receive the same type of examination and considered on basis established.
By common consent it was agreed that this be done.
~ 32J~
Minutes of the Meetinq - May 5, 1969 Continued
H881 BILL -
Mr. Marks said he felt the Board of Commissioners should oppose x881. Under present
law, the County Treasurer is also the treasurer of County School Funds. Under H881, a school
"fiscal officer", appointed by County and City Boards of Education, would assume ail
authorlty of County Treasurer relative to County School Funds. H881 would also change
present disbursement procedures by providing that school funds be paid out only on warrants
signed by the Chairman and 5ecretary of the Board of Education and countersigned by school
"fiscal officer". x881 wouid also repeal G.S. 155-s to remove County Treasurer as ex
officio treasurer of County Board of Education.
Mr. Williams moved, seconded by Mr. Metts, that the Board of New Hanover County ,
Commissioners go on record as opposing this legislation and the Chairman be requested
to notify Mr. Morrisey and the representatives in the General Assembly, including the Se-
nator from Sampson County, with copy to the Political Action Committee. Motion carried.
HEALTH DEPARTMENT ACCOUNTING
Mr. Marks discussed Health Department Accounting and suggested it be under the
County Auditor. Mr. Marks said he had discussed this with Mr. Shepard and Mr. Shepard
had informed him that he couid handle the accounting of the Health Department without
any additional help in his office. Mr. Marks said that at the first of each month 1/12 of
the money budgeted for the Health Department was turned over to the Health Department
and that the Health Department has now around $35,000 to $1}0,000 in surplus tahich the
County cannot touch.
Discussion of the Health Department operating under a charter ~instead of the General
Statutes was discussed and by common consent Mr. Fox, County Attorney, was requested to
make recommendations as to the operation of the Health Department under the General
Statute.
At this time, 1.:00 P.M., the meeting recessed for lunch,
At 2:15 P.M. the meeting reconvened with the same persons being present as were earlier
in the meeting.
SALES TAX -
-iscussion was held concerning local sales tax bills pending in legislature.
Mr. Marks moved, seconded by Mr. Metts, that the County Administrator be directed to
request our legislators to introduce a bill for collection of a lr~ sales tax returnable
to New Hanover County after a referendum or attachment of the County to a similar bill.
Further, to inform them that in the event of the introduction of a statewide bill as a
substitute for all local bills, we urge their support os such a bill. Further, we direct
the Administrator to send a copy.of this request to Mr. John Morrisey and the members of
the Board of New Hanover County Commissioners.
Mr. Williams said the Board had endorsed a statewide bill about three months ago.
The Board asked for a separate Act and the onl.y thing this does differently is to allow
tiie County to attach onto another bill. Vote was called on.motion. Motion carried three to
one. Mr. Williams voted "IVo".
BILL 5269
Mr. Metts moved, seconded by Mr. N~rks, that the Board advise its legislators that
it opposes 5269 Bill which would, if passed, limit the valuation of bona fide farms to
their value for agricultural use regardless of location or other normal elements of true
market value. Motion carried.
BILL H900 -
Discussion of H900 Bill under which a municipality wanting to annex•territory lying
in another county would have to have permission of the other county~s board of comtnissioners
in order to annex was discussed. Action was deferred on this.
OPPORTUNITIE52 IIVC. -
Mr. Harriss presented the following resolution concerning funding of Opportunities, Inc.:
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA:
. RESOLUTION
COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER .
WHEREAS, the County Commissioners supports objectives of elimination of poverty in this
communi,ty, and
WHEREAS, curtailment of funding by the Office of Economic Opportunity will threaten
continuance of this work;
BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED, that the New Hanover County Board of Commissioners respectfully
requests that the Office of Economic Opportunity give thorough consideration to the adverse
effects of discontinuance of this work.
Done this $th day of May, 1Q69.
(s) J. M. Hall, Jr.
Chairman
~ (s) Meares Harriss= Jr.
Vice-Chairman
(s) John Van B. Metts, Jr.
Commissioner
(s} H. A. Marks
Commissioner
(s) BerrV A, Williams
Commissioner
33U
Ninutes of the Neeking - May 5, 1969 Continved
Mr. Metts moved, seconded by Mr..Marks, that the resoiution be adopted. Motion carried.
Mr. Harriss was called from the meet;ng at this time.
COMMITTEE ON SEEHING APPLICANTS FOR P05ITION OF COUNTY ATTORNEY -
Mr. Metts moved, seconded by Nir. Williams, that the existing committee tA interview and
recommend to the Commissioners a fuli time County Attorney be dissolved in view of changed
circumstances , and that the Chairman be authorized to appoint a new committee. Motion
carried.
COURTHOUSE ELEVATOR -
Mr. Bowden gave a report on condition of the Courthovse elevator. The elevator needs
a lot of repair and Mr. Bowden suggested that the Board negotiate with the New Hanover Memo-
rial Hospital for one of the elevators at the old James Walker Hospital, have the cab rebuilt
and install in the courthouse. It was pointed out that this work would have to be put out
for bids. Mr. Metts suggested it would be wise to talk with an insurance man and see if he
will assist with the study of cost and check into the specifications required.
By common consent it was agreed to request the Chairman to start negotiations for one
of the elevators. .
AIR CONDITIONERS IN JUDGES C}IAMBERS
Mr. Bowden discussed installing air condition units in the Judges chambers. Mr. John
4Jood said it would cost quite a bit to install the air conditioners, and Mr. Marks suggested
that Mr. Bowden investigate the feasibili.ty of using a central unit. Mr. Bowden asked that
he be given permission to get services of an engineer to advise him on this. Mr. Marks
said he felt Mr. Bowden needed the services of an engineer and by common corisent it was
agreed that Mr. Bowden seek the services of an engineer.
At this time, County Auditor Shepard informed the Board that department heads had been
asking him what the Commissioners' thinking was on salaries for the fiscal year 1969-70.
Mr. Metts said he did not think any action should be taken on this with only three commis-
sioners present. He felt the full Board should be present before a policy was set. No
action was taken on this.
Mr. Shepard was excused from the meeting to attend another meeting.
DOG POUND. ANIMAL SHELTER -
Mr. Bowden recommended that the dog pound and animal shelter be located on North Twenty-
Third 5treet next to the City Disposal Plant and requested permission to have a survey made
of the property. Mr. Williams moved that the area recommended by Mr. Bowden be set aside
for this pvrpose and that a proper insert be made setting the installations back for parking.
Motion died for lack of a second.
N
There was quite a bit of discussion whether or not to use this property for this purpose.
Mr. Metts was of the opinion that the property was too valuable. Then the question of zoning
was discussed relative to other locations. Mr. Bowden said to locate these faci2lties in
some other locations would require spot zoning. Mr. Fox when questioned said, in his opinion,
it was not legal to have spot zoning. Location of these two installations was deferred until
Mr. Fox can investigate the question of zoning and make recommendations to the Board.
CAROLINA POWER & LIGHT COMPANY EASEMENT
Mr. Bowden presented an easement which the Carolina Power and Light Company had prepared
for a right-of-way over county land to erect poles, wires, etc. in order to provide service
to Timme Corporation who is expanding its operation. Nr. Bowden pointed out that the easement
had a provision providing that the power company will relocate the poles, etc. should they
interfere with the future development of the above described land. Mr. Williams moved,
seconded by Mr. Marks, that the easement be signed. Motion carried.
DEATH OF MR. BAGGETT'S N~THER
Mr. Bowden informed the Commissioners of the death of Mr. Saggett's mother during the
pas.t weekend. Mrs. Baggett lived in Dunn and the funeral was to be on Monday. By common
consent it was agreed to express the Board~s sympathy be sending flowers to Mr. Baggett when
he returns, funds coming from the Contingency Fund.
MEMBERSHIP IN LEAGUE OF CITY MANAGERS
Mr. Bowden tald the Board that he had ,joined the League of County Managers at his own
expense and advised them that a meeting will be held this month and requested permission to
attend. Mr. Williams moved, seconded by N~r. Marks, that since Mr. Bowden will represent
New Hanover at this meeting he be authori2ed to attend at Covnty expense and that his
membership be paid for by the County. Motion carried.
EXPIRATION OF MFt. MARHS~ TERM ON WELFARE BOARD
Mr, Marks informed the Board that his term of bffice on the Welfare Board will expire
on June 30. Mr. Metts expressed the feeling that he would like for him to continue if at all
possible. Mr. Williams said he was in agreement to this. Mr. Marks said he was hesitant
about leaving, because he was the only experienced one now on the committee.
ADJWRNMENT -
There being no further business to come before the Board, Mr. Marks moved, seconded by
Mr. Williams, that the meeting adjourn. Motion carried.
Respectfully submitted,
Hazel Savage
Clerk to Board of Commissioners