1970-04-06 Regular Meeting9
P1INiJTES OF Tf~ MEETING APRII, 6, 19~0
A,SSENIBLY -
The regular semi-monthly meeting ,of the New Hanover County Board of Commissioners was held
on the above date and time in the Commission Building with the following present: Chairman
John Van B. Metts, Jr., Vice-Chairman Meares Harriss, Jr., Commissioners J. M. Hall, Jr., H. A.
Marks, Berry A. Williams; County Attorney James C. Fox; County Auditor Perry Shepard; County
Administrator I,aurence 0. Bowden; and Hazel Sava~e, Clerk to the Board.
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INVOCATION -
Chairman Metts called the meeting to order and asked Rev. Ed. Barber, Pastor, Grace Methodist
Church, to give the invocation.
APPROVAI, OF MII4iTTES -
Mr. Metts requested followin~ changes to the minutes of ineeting of March 16, 19'70:
On Page 4 under headin~: ."Public Hearing.,. C.onsider Changes to County Zoning Ordinance",
after Yirst paragraph insert:
"Meeting Recessed."
"Meeting Reconvened."
Eliminate "After hearing £rom both sides" in second para~raph and begin with: "Mr. Harriss
moved..."
On Page 4 under heading: "Approval of Subdivision Maps", third paragraph should read:
"Mr. Hall moved, seconded by Mr. Marks, that the Chairman be authorized to sign the plat upon
being advised by the Planning Department that everything is in order. Motion carried i~^~^~mously."
Mr. Marks moved, seconded by Mr. Hall, that the minutes of the meeting of March 16 be
approved as corrected. Motion carried unanimously.
REPORTB -
Mr. Sam Johnson, Tax Collector,•appeared before the Board to report on taxes collected for
the month of March. He reported $98,841.81 of 1969 taxes collected during March, bringing
total of 1969 taxes collected thus far to $4,348, 893.15. During the month of March $16,']'70.53
in back taxes was also collected.
Mr. Williams gave the following reports on meetings he attended recently:
1. Annual Conference of Regional Councils of Government, Atlanta, Ga., March 15-18, 19'70 -
Some of the subjects covered were conducting Regional Reviews, Bureau of the Budget Circular
A-95 Provisions, Organizational Structure, Problems Facing Regional Councils of Government,
Economic Development, Law Enforcement Assistance, Comprehensive Health Planning, Environmental
Problems, etc.
Mr. Williams' assigned part on the program was a talk on the problems £acing a medium
sized C.O.G.
Mr. Williams said one of the most significant actions of the session was the amendment
of the By-Laws to insure that most of.the members of the Board of Directors will be elected
members of local governments. He said this action had his full endorsement.
2. Legislative Conference, NACO, Washington, D. C., March 22-25, 1970 - Mr. Williams said
all steering committees of NACO met during the session and the Planning and Development Committee
of which he was a member met overtime. He said the Planning and Development recommendations
were adopted by the Directors of NACO and a copy is available.
3. Senate Subcommittee on Oceanography, Washington, D. C., April 2, 19']0 (Mr. Williams
attended as representative o£ NACO) - The hearing was on three bills S. 2802, S. 3183 and
S. 3460, National Coastal Zone and Estaurine Management Acts. He said NACO agrees with and
gives support to many of the provisions of the three bills, however the bills as written,
would place the responsibility for Coastal Zone Planning and Development with another level
of govern.ment. NACO emphasized the importance of local and regional planning and development
under control of local elected governing boards. NACO also recommended that the Federal Share
of P. & D, funds be increased from the proposed 50 percent to 66-2/3 percent, citing the
difficulty local and state governments are e~rperiencing in raising the local share of funds.
PIACO and National League of Cities were invited to present written proposed legislative wording
on the subject which will be done.
Mr. Williams read a portion of a letter from Senator Ernest F. Hollings, Chairman, Sub-
committee on Oceanography in which he thanked him for taking the time to t•estify before the
commi.ttee.
After reporting on these three meetings, Mr. Williams stressed the need £or local boards
to make views of the local governments known.
P.L. 660 FEDERAL GRANTS -
Mr. Neil Mallory reported on a one day Seminar in Raleigh a couple of weeks ago on P.L. ~
660 Federal Grants which he attended. He said funds are available £or installation of sewage
plants and 30'~ can be obtained from the Federal Government under the Federal Water Pollution
Control Act. Also, additional 10'~ of 30'~ or 33l is available if approved by Regional Planning.
Also, if State will appropriate 25%, Federal will increase to 50'~ which will make total of
80'/o in grant funds. At this time, however, the State does not participate, but those attending
the meeting were advised tYiat State funds will be requested at the next budget and if the
State does participate, County could get as much as 80'~0.
Mr. Mallory said construction of outfall and major interceptor lines would be eligible
£or grant. Mr. Hall asked whether this would be on a piece meal basis and Mr. Mallory said
he did not feel grant would be available unless there is a de£inite plan and it would receive
better consideration if plan were on a county basis.
Mr. Metts suggested information Mr. Mallory gave be flirnished the Chai.rman of the Water
and Sewer Authority.
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4`~ MINUTES OF THE MEETING, APRIL 6, 1970 (CONTINUED)
SECTION 8~ IANG I~EAF ACRES SUBDIVISION PLAT -
Mr. Mallory presented plat of the above subdivision and requested the Chairman be
authorized to sign the linen copy when it is presented subject to the Planning Commission's
approval.
Mr. Harriss moved, seconded by Mr. Williams, that the Chairman be authorized to sign the
plat when presented in proper £orm and approved by the Planning Commission. Motion carried
unanimously.
AUTHORITY OF VICE-CHAIRMAN TO SIGN DOCUMENTS, ETC. -
Mr. Harriss inquired of the County Attorney if the Chairman is authorized to sign some-
thing for the County and is absent when the time comes if the Vice-Chairman may sign instead.
Mr. Fox said this was permissible.
A.B.C. PERMIT REQUESTS -
The £ollowing A.B.C. Permit Requests were presented to the Board: Seaside Cafe, K
Street, gure Beach; Henry's Drive-In Restaurant, 3522 Carolina Beach Road; Blackbeard's Galley,
gure Beach; Timme Plaza Motor Inn, 301 N. Water Street; and Bodenhamer Groc. & Cottage, Kure
Beach.
Mr. Ha11 moved, seconded by Mr. Williams, that the requests be £orwarded to the Sheriff's
Department £or their investigation. Motion carried unani.mously.
PUBLIC HEARING, CONSIDER CHANGE TO COUNTY ZONING ORDINANCE -q^`~"`~"~°"~ ~' 2°"'^9 ~~P
Mr. Metts opened the public hearing called to consider the f llowing chaiige to~the County
Zoning Ordinance:
"Rezoning: S.R. 1148 (Masonboro Zoop Road) between Beasley's Creek and S.R.
1505 on the east side of the road from R-15 (Single Family District) to R-10
(Single Family District)."
Mr. Tim Wood, Planning Director, pointed out reason for rezoning is to permit construction
o£ duplex homes and that a special use permit will be requested later. He said the Planning
Commission recommended approval of the request.
There was no opposition to the rezoning reguest and Mr. Hall moved, seconded by Mr. Marks,
that the recommendations of the Planning Department be approved and the request for rezoning
as outlined be approved. Motion carried unanimously. (For ordinance adopted, see zonin,q Ordinance
Book I, Masonboro Section, Page 3.)
RECONIl`1ENDATION OF PI,ANNING COMMISSION FOR TFlE ZONING OF AREA N0. 3-
Mr. Tim Wood, Planning Director, presented map £or proposed zoning of Area No. 3. The
area pertains to Middle Sound and Ogden. He pointed out zoning begins North of Babies Hospital
and extends to Porters Neck. He said zoning for this area is recommended to protect the
coastline and because of the many petitions and requests received reguesting zoning. This
area is principally residential with some industrial and commercial.
Mr. Wood said the Plannin~ Commission is ready for the zoning i£ the Board o£ Commis-
sioners wish to ca11 a public hearing and if it does, they recommend hearing be held May
4, i9~o.
Mr. Hall moved, seconded by Mr. Marks, that the Board advertise that public hearing on
zoning of Area 3 will be held on May 4. Motion carried unanimously.
RESIGNATION MEMBER OF MENTAL HEAUPH ADVISORY BOARD -
Chairman Metts reported the Board had received a letter o£ resignation from Lonnie B.
Williams from the Mental Health Advisory Board. Mr. Williams moved, seconded by Mr. Marks,
that the resignation be accepted with regret and a letter be written Mr. Williams thanking
him for his services. Motion carried unanimously. Mr. Marks informed the Board the Mental
Health Nominating Committee had been alerted and they would submit name of a person to fill
this vacancy, possibly at the next meeting.
TRANSF'ER OF COURT FACILITIES ~`&ES TO PURCHASE OF COURTROOM ~'[TRNITURE -
Prior to the meeting Commissioners were polled for approval of transferring 9b2500 from
Court Facilities Fees to the purchase of furniture for the courtroom and prosecutor, etc.
Majority vote was received approving. Mr. [Jilliams movei3, seconded by Mr. Marks, that formal
approval be given at this time for the transfer. Motion carried unanimously.
BOARD OF ELECTIONS REQUEST FOR C~MPITTER SERVICE -
A letter from the Board of Elections reguesting $4500, which is now available in the
1969-'70 budget, be transferred to an account entitled "Computer Service=' was presented to the
Board. Also, it was pointed out that the Board of Elections recommended the contract be
awarded to the American Computer Center. Mr. Shepard recommended the trans£er be approved
and the contract awarded to the American Computer Center. Mr. Williams asked £or the County
Administrator's comments. Mr. Bowden advised that American Computer Center's proposal was
much more attractive financially. Mr. Shepard said it would not be necessary to call for
bids. Mr. Marks raised the question of whether or not money would be available in the Board
of Elections Budget after the expenses of the primary and general election are taken care of.
Mr. Shepard said sufficient £unds would be available. It was pointed out that the transfer
will require approval of the Board, but the Board of Elections may decide who gets the con-
tract £or computer service. Mi~. Marks moved, seconded by Mr. Williams, that the trans£er be
approved as requested by the Board of Elections to provide £or Computer Service. Motion
carried unanimously.
SHERIFF DEPARTMENT "APPROVED PROJECTS"
Sheriff Millis was requested to appear to
wherein he requested the Board's consideration
funds for the purchase of equipment. Matching
Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Acts of
or not it will require additional personnel to
Millis said it would not.
discuss with the Board his letter of March 26
in furnishing local funds to match federal
Federal funds are available as a result o£ the
1968. Mr. Millis was questioned as to whether
operate the photography equipment and Mr.
Mr. Williams pointed out that only a letter of intent is necessary at this time, and
moved, seconded by Mr. Hall, that the Commission authorize a letter of intent be written
advising that the Board of New Hanover County Commissioners pla~ to give £avorable consideration
to this request at budget time. Motion carried unanimously.
MINUTES OF THE MEETING, APRII, 6, 1970 (~ONTINUED)
DISCRETIONARY FUND - SHERIFF DEPARTMENT -
Mr. Hall pointed out that in the past funds had been appropriated for a discretionary
fund in the Sheriff's -epartment which had been e~ended. Mr. Hall moved, seconded by Mr.
Harriss, that $300 be appropriated from the General blumd to the Discretionary ~ind in the
Sheriff's Department. Motion carried unani.mously.
BOAT FOR SAERIFF'S DEPARTMENT -
Sheri£f Millis discussed the need for a boat for his department saying he receives
numerous calls where a boat is needed, pointing out that sometimes his department has papers
to serve on boats. Also, a boat is needed for patrolling. Mr. Fox advised that it would be
necessary to call for bids for this purchase.
Mr. Harriss moved, seconded by Mr. Hall, that the Sheriff draw up specifications for
boat needed and that same be advertised for bids. Motion carried unanimously. Mr. Marks
said he would like to see a memorandum from the Sheriff as to how he will use the boat,
liability insurance, etc.
Mr. Millis said he had ample personnel to operate the boat.
PUBZIC HEARING. WII~MINGTON-NEW HANOVER WATER AND SEWER AUTHORITY -
Atthe hour of 10:00 A.M., the Chairman announced that, pursuant to notice duly published,
this was the place, date and time for a public hearing on a resolution proposed to be adopted
by the Board of Commissioriers of New Hanover County signifying its determination to organize
the Wilmin~ton-New Hanover Water and Sewer Authority.
The Chairman then announced that the Board of Commissioners proposed to appoint the
following persons as members of the Wilmington-New Hanover Water and Sewer Authority for
the indicated terms: Duration of Term
Bruce Cameron, Blythe Road, Wilmington, N. C. 2 Years
~7. B. Beery, III, 1415 Brookhaven Road, Wilmington, N. C. 4 Years
M. C. Brown, 2411 Oleander Drive, Wilmington, N. C. 6 Years
Mr. Metts then said the Board would hear any resident of New.Hanover County or any other
interested person concerning the or~anization of the Wilmington-New Hanover Water and Sewer
Authority.
Mr. M. C. Brown spoke saying he felt the County Commissioners should be commended £or
the forward look they are taking in our area in providing an adequate supply of raw water
and sewage for the rapidly growing county. He said he felt water and sewage is going to be
a continuing problem; pipe lines now are being f~.illy utilized. Also, the report of Alexander
Potter showed the area must prepare for a much larger quantity of water. He pointed out
that as the area continues to grow there will have to be ways and means of carrying off
pollution.
Mr. Brown said that perhaps through the efforts of the authority other ~overnments in
other areas can be brou~ht to realize that water and sewer service is of area concern.
Mr. Hugh Branch, Director, Committee of 100, said he concurred with Mr. Brown's
statements.
Col. Paul Denison, Commander of the Wilmington District, U. 8. Army Corps o£ Engineers,
spoke next and said he wanted to make it clear he spoke as a local citizen and not for the
Government. He said Wilmington and New Hanover County are already on the verge of ex-
ceeding their resources for providing safe and adequate water service. He said it was
extremely important to be visionary in plans and they should be long range.
Mr. R. C. Cantwell, a realtor and.member of the Wilmington-New Hanover County Planning
Commission, said without some measures being taken in this direction, the Planning Commis-
sion's hands are tied.
Thereupon Commissioner Harriss introduced the following resolution which was read:
"RESOLIITION SIGNIFYING THE DETERMINATION
OF THE BOARD OF COMCIISSIONERS OF NEW
HANOVER COUNTY TO ORGANIZE AN AUTHORITY
UNDER THE NORTH CAROI,INA WATER AND SEWER
AUTHORITIES ACT (CHAPTER 162A OF THE
Gr:ivr;xAL STATUTES OF NORTH CAROLINA,
AS Ai`~ivL~D ) .
"BE IT RESOLVED by the Board o£ Commissioners of New Hanover County that:
"Section 1. It is the determination of the Board of Commissioners of New
Hanover County to organize an Authority under the North Carolina Water and Sewer
Authorities Act (Chapter 162A of the General Statutes of North Carolina, as
amended).
"Section 2. The proposed Articles of Incorporation of such Authority are as
follows:
"ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION
OF THE
WILMINGTON-NEW HANOVER WATER AND SEWER AUTHORITY
"In compliance with the North Carolina Water and Sewer Authorities Act, being
Chapter 1629 of the General Statutes of North Carolina, as amended, the City Council
of the City of Wilmington, North Carolina, pursuant to a resolution signifying its
determination to or~anize an Authority under the provisions of said Act, and the
Board of Commissioners of New Aanover County, North Carolina, pursuant to a re-
solution signifyin~ its determination to organize an Authority under said Act,
which Authority shall be a public body and a body politic and corporate of the
State of North Carolina, hereby certify that:
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MINUTES OF THE MEETING, APRII, 6, 1970 (CONTINUED)
PUBLIC HEARING, WILM.IIQGTON-NEW HANOVER WATER AND SEWER AUTHORITY (CONTINUED) -
"(a) This Authority is organized under said North Carolina Water and Sewer
Authorities Act, its name shall be 'WILMINGTON-NEW HANOVER WATER AND SEWER AUTHORITY'
and the address of its principal o£fice shall be Wilmington, North Carolina.
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"(b) The names of the organizing political subdivisions are the CITY OF WIZ-
MINGTON, NORTH CAROLINA, AND NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA.
"(c) The Wilmington-New Hanover [dater and Sewer Authority shall have six
members, three appointed by each of said organizing political subdivisions. The
names and addresses o£ the first members of said Authority appointed by the City
Council of the City of Wilmington are:
W. Mercer Rowe, 2216 Acacia Drive, Wilmington, N. C.
Louis W. Latham, 532 Colonial Drive, Wilmington, N. C.
W,: gent Walker, 205'J Battery Place, Wilmington, N. C.
and the names and addresses o£ the first members o£ said Authority appointed by the
Board of Commissioners of New Hanover County are:
Bruce B. Cameron, Blythe Road, Wilmington, N. C.
W. B. Beery, III, 1415 Brookhaven Road, Wilmington, N. C.
M. C. Brown, 2411 Oleander Drive, Wilmington, N. C.
"IN LJITNESS WHEREOF, the City of Wil,mington, North Carolina, has caused these
Articles of Incorporation to be executed by its Mayor and its corporate seal to be
affixed hereto and attested by its City Clerk, and New Hanover County has caused
these Articles of Incorporation to be executed by the Chairman of its Board of
Commissioners and the official seal of said Board of Commissioners to be affixed
hereto and attested by the Clerk of Said Board, all as of tlais day of
, 1970.
(SEAL)
Attest:
City Clerk of the City of
Wilmington, North Carolina
( SEAI~ )
Attest:
Clerk of the Board of
Commissioners of New
Hanover County
Mayor of the City of
Wilmington, North Carolina
Chairman of the
Board of Commissioners of
New Hanover County
"Section 3. The following persons are hereb~ appointed as members of said
Authority, each o£ whom shall continue in of£ice for the term expiring the indicated
number of years from the date on which the creation of the Authority becomes effective
and until his successor shall be duly appointed and qualified.
Duration of Term
Bruce B. Cameron, Blythe Road, Wilmington, N. C. 2 Years
W. B. Beery, III, 1415 Brookhaven Road, Wilmington, N. C. 4 Years
M. C. Brown, 2411 Oleander Drive, Wilmington, N. C. 6 Years
"The successor of each member shall be appointed by the Board of Commissioners
for a term o£ six (6) years and until a successor shall be duly appointed and qualified
except that any person appointed to fill a vacancy shall serve only for the unexpired
term. Any member of the Authority shall be eligible £or reappointment.
"Section 4. The Articles of Incorporation of the Wilmington-New Hanover Water
and Sewer Authority in substantially the form set forth in Section 2 0£ this resolution
shall be executed on behal£ of New Hanover County by the Chairman of its Board of
Commissioners and the official seal of said Board of Commissioners shall be affixed
thereto and attested by the Clerk of said Board, and the Clerk of said Board is hereby
authorized and directed to file with the Secretary of State of North Carolina a
certified copy of this resolution, together with proof of publication of the notice
of hearing on this resolution, and said of£icers are hereby authorized, empowered
and directed to do all things necessary to create the said Authority under the
provisions of the North Carolina Water and Sewer Authorities Act.
"Section 5. This resolution sha11 take e£fect upon its passage.
"Thereupon Commissioner Harriss moved the passage of the foregoing resolution
entitled: 'RESOLUTION BIGNIFYING THE DETERMINATION OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
OF NEW HANOVER COUNTY TO ORGANIZE AN AUTHORITY UNDER THE NORTH CAROLINA WATER AND
SEWER AUTHORITIES ACT (CHAPTER 162A OF THE GENERAI, STATUTES OF NORTH CAROLINA, AS
AMENDED)', and Commissioner Hall seconded the motion, and the resolution was passed
by the following vote:
"Ayes: Commissioners Metts, Harriss, Hall,
Marks and Williams.
"Noes: None."
Mr. Harriss commented that the formation of the authority will be an impact on the future.
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MINUTES OF THE MEETING, APRIL 6, 1970 (CONTINUED)
FUNDS APPROPRIATED TOWARD ~xrr.ivSES OF WIZMINC~i'ON-NEW HANOVER WATER AND SEWER AUTHORUTY -
Mr. Hall suggested it might be necessary to provide funds for the operation of this
authority and moved, seconded by Mr. Williams, the Authority be permitted to use $1,000 from
the amount which was set up at budget time. Motion carried unanimously.
TAX MAPS -
Mr. R. C. Cantwell, Realtor, appeared before the Board requesting they investigate the
feasibility o£ establishing tax maps. He said there is no inventory of t~able,.real property
in the County and without an inventory an audit of assessments cannot be made. He said this
would be a valuable tool to the assessers and Planning Commission. The information Messrs.
Blake and McDaniel have accumulated could be incorporated in such maps. He suggested the
possi~bility of using temporary help in accomplishing this. He said he felt the county
would be able to get a better price from appraisal companys when reappraising time comes, if
such maps are available.
By common consent it was agreed to request the County Administrator to get his Assistant
look into the possibility and come back with recommendations and estimated cost and also what
cost saving would be realized at the next assessment period.
SCHOOI, BOARD REQUEST TRANSFER OF E'UNDS -
Request from the School Board requesting trans£er of ~689•14 from Retirement & Social
Security to Insurance was discussed. Mr. Marks pointed out that several requests for trans£ers
of funds from the Retirement & Social Security Account had been requested and he wondered what
the status of the account is and suggested the School Board advise the Commissioners.
Mr. Williams moved, seconded by Mr. Hall, that the request be approved and that the School
Board be requested to furnish the Commissioners a letter giving the status of the Retirement
and Social Security Account.. Motion carried unanimously.
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SHERIFF'S REQUEST TRANSF`ER FROM SALARY ACCOUNT TO RADIO ACCOUNT -
Due to moving o£ the Sheriff's office the radio installation had to be moved makin~ it
necessary to move the Radio Antenna to a new location causing the radio budget to be over ex-
pended in amount of $500. Mr. Williams moved, seconded by Mr. Hall, that 56540 be transferred
£rom the Sheriff's Department Salary Account to Radio Account as requested. Motion carried
unanimously.
SHERIFF'S REQUEST FOR TRANSF'ER OF $2.830.68 FROM GENERAL FUND REVr~vu~ TO HIS ACCOUNT N0. 11.769 -
Insurance collected was deposited in General E1~.nd for car and radio lost in accident. lnr.
Marks moved, seconded by Mr. Hall that t7ii.s request be approved. Motion carried unanimously.
SHERIFF'S REQUEST FOR TRANSFER OF $35.00 FROM DUES AND SUBSCRIPTIONS AND $100 FROM ADVERTISING
ACCOUNT BE TRAN6FERRED TO STATIONERY AND SUPPLIES-
Mr. Williams moved, seconded by Mr. Harriss, that these transfers be approved. Motion
carried unanimously.
MENTAL HEAIli'Fi CENTER RE9DEST FOR TRANSFER OF FUNDS -
A letter from the Southeastern Mental Health Center requesting transfer of 9b4,000 from
Salary Account to Psychiatric Retainers was discussed. Mr. Marks moved, seconded by Mr. Ha11,
that the request be approved. Motion carried unanimously.
MITNICIPAL-COUNTY BUILDING RESERVE FiTND -
Mr. Hall made the following statement relative to a municipal-county building reserve
fund:
"For many years various boasds o£ commissioners have felt a keen desire to provide costly
facilities without going into bond issues, knowing full well that we had to pay double for
schools and hospitals which had to be paid £or over a period of many years with interest.
"Until this year a'pay as you go program' was almost impossible. This year, as a result
of the confidence the people of New Hanover County have shown in their governing boards, we
have been given the tools with which to provide'some schools and other things on a cost basis.
"While promoting the passage of the one cent sales tax, 2 made talks to many groups, clubs,
and individuals. In these talks I enumerated many expenses which the county is going to have
to £ace up to eventually, and in the not too distant future.
"In a dynamic growing community such as New Hanover County has become it is almost im-
possible to have a unanimous opinion on any given subject.
"Recently we have had to spend thousands of dollars on reappropriating space in the court-
house. In our growing community we are now faced with the fact that the present courthouse
and jail complex ase even now inadequate.
"It is estimated that New Hanover County will receive over $846,800 in sales tax.
"As a step in the process of consolidation I propose that this board, in its budget
studies for 19'70-']1, appropriate a sizable fund earmarked for (1) a Municipal-County Building
($300,000 annually) and (2) coundy share of e~ended water and sewage facility, and that our
Administrator and Auditor are instructed to place these items in the 19'JO-'71 proposed budget
£or consideration.
"F~rthermore, I wish to call to your attention that fundamentally the sales ta~c issue was
sold to the people of New Hanover County on a basis of 'Pennies £or Progress'. I made many
public appearances on its behalf and at no time did I ever say that this money would be used
to reduce taxes but rather emphatically stated that we could see many county needs staring us
in the face, and if the sales tax issues was not passed it would be necessary to raise the ad
valorem tax. This was not a threat, but an acknowledgment of a fact."
Mr. Williams said he agreed wholeheartedly with Mr. Hall; "We keep renovating and shuffling
and the more we renovate and shuffle the less room we have." Mr. Williams felt consideration
should be given to question of whether jail £acility will be included in such a complex. If
it is going to be in new location should shortly consider emploging someone to draw up some
~ specifications and recommendations: This is one project that is the responsibility of the
County Commissioners.
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460
MINUTES OF THE MEETING, APRIL 6, 1969 (CONTINUED)
MUNICIPAI~-COUNTY BUILDING RESERVE FUND (CONTINUED) -
Mr. Marks said he felt there may be a misinterpretation of the facts from the people's
approval of the tax. He said he had many recollections of where sinking funds had sunk. He
said it was, in his opinion, a mandate to give tax payers relief and a tax reduction should
be considered. Mr. Marks said he personally was in favor of a tax reduction.
Mr. Ha11 said that in his many talks to clubs, etc. in support of the tax he told the
people he could not promise them a reduction in the ta~c rate; he saw needs of the county and
could promise them if it were not passed, it would be necessary to increase ad valorem taxes.
Mr. Harriss said he felt the discussion was premature.
Mr. Metts £elt the Board should do everything in its power to achieve a tax reduction.
Mr. Williams said when the Sales Tax was being pushed, it was "A Penny For Frogress",
not necessarily a reduction in taxes.
By common consent it was agreed when preparing the budget, the County Administrator and
Auditor take these items in consideration along with others that might be considered and also
discuss the legality of sales tax being used for such funds.
BID OPENING - CAR FOR SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT -
Two bids were received for car which was advertised £or. They are as follows:
Tom Reich Chevrolet Company ~2,859•92 plus sales tax
Cape Fear Motor Sales, Inc. $2,751.46 plus sales t~
Mr. Fox found both bids to be in order. .
Mr. Harriss moved, seconded by Mr. Marks, that the bid received from Cape Fear Motor Sales,
Inc. in amount of $2,~51.46 be accepted. Motion carried unanimously.
CAPE FEAR TECH. RE9UEST FOR FUNDS F'aR IMPROVEMENT - ,
Messrs. Mercer Rowe, Fred Galehouse, Luther Cromartie, and Alfred A. Johnston, members
of Board of Trustees, and Mr. M. J. McLeod, President, of Cape Fear Technical Institute, appeared
before the Board requesting $55,000 to be used as matching funds for a grant of $220,000 that `
can be had £rom the Coastal Plains Authority. To be accredited by the Southern Association
of Colleges and Schools, an institution must meet certain academic standards, and the physical
facilities must be approved as being adequate, £or the type of training or teaching involved.
The institution has recently been visited by an observation committee. As a result, Cape Fear
Tech is in the trial period. This team pointed out in no uncertain ~erms that classroom and
shop space would be the determining factor in getting approval, indicating they w~xenot satisfied
with what they saw in this respect.
The present campus buildings were fl~nded by a bond issue in 1964• The inflationary spiral
which existed between the time of estimate and time o£ bid letting necessitated drastic changes
in the size and number of buildings envisioned - several had to be completely eliminated; others,
such as the main building, suffered severe reductions in size. These buildings, when completed,
therefore were inadequate to accomodate the initial enrollment.
Mr. Rowe pointed out the staff and trustees are business men and tax payers; there£ore
are constantly striving to give and get the most for each dollar spent at the Institution.
For example, during the last 6 years, Cape Fear Tech has returned over $25,000 of appropriated
unused funds to the County. It is esti.mated at this time that a significant amount will be
returned after this operating year.
Mr. Rowe said what they are seeking are minimum reguirements.
The present shop building on the west side of Water Street near the pier was designed for
a wing on each end. The completion of these wings would enable the Institution to move certain
operations and laboratories from their present locations in the main building. At the present
time expensive electronic equipment and sensitive measuring devices valued at over ~100,000
are in jeopardy by double and triple use o£ this space by other operations which require hammers,
etc. It is estimated that this phase would cost $125,000 to complete.
The other structure considred a bare minimum to ful£ill present needs is what could be
called an assembly building which wi11 truly be a multi-purpose building, housing some offices,
some storage, as well as serving as a meeting place for classes, general assembly, etc. It
is estimated that it will cost $150,000 to complete this building.
Mr. Rowe said in requesting the appropriation, they do it with the full and complete under-
standing that it is not to be used unless we are successful in securing matchin~ funds from
other sources.
Mr. Harriss moved, seconded by Mr. Williams, that $20,000 be appropriated at this time
from L.D. Interest and a letter oY intent be written stating that the remaining ~35,000 will
be appropriated at budget time. Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Metts commented that Cape Fear Tech Boaid of Trustees should be complimented on returning
money out of their budget which proves they are trying to get the most out o£ money.
REQUEST FOR APPROPRIATION FOR TRAVEL EXPENSE IN TAX LISTING OFFICE -
Mr. Bowden requested $100 be appropriated for travel expenses in the Tax Listing -epart-
ment in order that Mr. I,arry Powell might attend a meeting in Chapel Hill on April 15 through
1'7. By common consent it was agreed to request Mr. Sam Johnson to attend also, if it meets
with the City's approval. Mr. Shepard pointed out that Mr. Johnson will need travel expenses
a1so.
Mr. Hall moved, seconded by Mr. Williams, that this Board appropriate travel money £or ~
the Tax Listing Department in amount of $100 for Mr. Powe11 and $60 for Mr. Sam Johnson, funds
to come £rom the General E~ergency F4~nd. Motion carried unanimously.
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461
MINUTES OF THE MEETING, APRIL 6, 1970 (CONTINUED)
APPROVAL CONSTRUCTION fNGH MCRAE PARK-REQUEST FOR APPROPRIATION -
Mr. Harriss presented request £or appropriation of $2y00 for construction o£ two storage
buildings at Hugh MacRae Park in the Optimist Field. They will be 6' x 12'. The site has
been inspected by the Hugh MacRae Park Committee, including Mr. Hugh Morton, who has given
approval. The Optimist Club will furnish wiring and plumbing.
Mr. Williams moved, seconded by Mr. Marks, that upon recommendation o£ Mr. Harriss, who
is a member of Hugh MacRae Park Committee, the $2900 requested be appropriated, funds coming
from C.D. Interest on Investments. Motion carried unanimously.
GOVERNOR'S CONFERENCE ON DEUGS ABUSE -
Mr. Bowden called attention to Governor's Conference on Drugs Abuse to be held in Raleigh
on April 15 and suggested anyone that could attend, please do so. Mr. Harriss suggested Chief
of Police Williamson be contacted and invitation e~ctended that anyone he wished to attend
go along in car going frorm County.
CONGRATULATIONS TO BILL SUTTON. PRESIDENT OF AZALEA F`ESTIVAI, -
By common consent it was agreed to write Bill Sutton, 1970 President of the Azalea
Festival, a letter expressing the Board's congratulations and thanks for a very fine Azalea
Festival this year.
ADJOURNMENT -
There being no further business to come before the Board, meeting was adjourned.
Respectfully submitted,
Hazel Savage
Clerk to the Board
/s
MEETING OF
BOARD OF EQUAI,IZATION & REVIE4J
April 6, 1970
On April 6, 19~0 the Sirst meeting o£ the Board of Equalization & Review met in the Commis-
sioners' Room at 1:00 P.M.
There were three Board members present, who were sworn in by Mrs. Betty Balch. Said members
being, Chairman John Van B. 3°Ietts, Meares Harriss, Jr., and H. A. Marks. Also present were Tax
Supervisor, Laurence 0. Bowden and Assistant Tax Supervisor, Larry J. Powell.
The Board met to discuss and set up a schedule for property complaints to be brought before
the Board of Equalization & Review.
A three day session was scheduled, starting April 9th, lOth and 13th, and passed upon by
the Board.
Chairman John Van Metts requested a list of complaint property, broken down to building
and land value separate.
There was no further business to be brought before the Board at this time so Chairman
John Van Metts moved to adjouxn.
The Board of Equalization & Review recessed at 1:10 P.M. until 9:3o A.M. on Thursday,
April 9, 19'70.
Respect£ully Submitted,
Betty Ayala
MEETING OF
BOARD OF EQUAI~IZATION & REVIEW
April 9 , 19'70
On April 9, 19']0 the second meeting of the Board of Equalization & Review met in the
Commissioners' Room at 9~3a A.M.
Present were Chairman John Van Metts, Meares Harriss, Jr., H. A. Marks, J. M. Hall, Jr.,
who was sworn in by Mrs. Betty Balch, T~ Supervisor, Laurence 0. Bowden and Assistant Tax
Supervisor, 7~arry J. Powell.
The Board met to review and hear the property complaints. The first to appear before the
Board was Reasor Chemical Corp., represented by agent, Mr. H. E. Ginn, who stated that Reasor
Chemical Corp. was out o£ business, closing on Dec. 18th, and wished value of the building
reduced. Chairman John Van Metts stated they would recheck this property and inform Mr. Ginn
later of the final decision of the Board. The Board at this time recommended no change.
Chairman John Van Metts received a telephone call from Amsey Boyd in behalf of R. C. Boyd,
Sr., who stated his property, 12.5 acres adj. Battle Ground Park was low ground with no highway
frontage, there£ore wished a reduction in land value. The Board recommended a 35% f~ctional
depreciation as recommended by the Assistant Tax Supervisor.
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At this time Chairman John Van Metts suggested Mr. Powell telephone all remaining people
on the schedule and confirm their appearance before the Board o£ Equalization & Review. The
Board recessed at 11:00 A.M. for this purpose.
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