2015-10-19 Regular Meeting
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 33
REGULAR MEETING, OCTOBER 19, 2015 PAGE 384
ASSEMBLY
The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners met in Regular Session on Monday, October 19, 2015,
at 3:30 p.m. in the New Hanover County Courthouse, 24 North Third Street, Wilmington, North Carolina.
Members present: Chairman Jonathan Barfield, Jr.; Vice-Chairman Beth Dawson; Commissioner Skip
Watkins; Commissioner Woody White; and Commissioner Rob Zapple.
Staff present: County Manager Chris Coudriet; County Attorney Wanda Copley; and Clerk to the Board
Teresa Elmore.
CLOSED SESSION
Chairman Barfield announced that a Closed Session pursuant to North Carolina General Statute 143-
318.11(a)(3) to consult with the County Attorney regarding a matter of potential litigation has been called and
requested direction from the Board.
Motion
: Commissioner Watkins MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Dawson, to enter into a Closed Session
pursuant to NC General Statute 143-318.11(a)(3) to consult with the County Attorney regarding a matter of potential
litigation. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
The Board members convened to Closed Session at 3:31 p.m.
RECONVENE TO REGULAR SESSION
Chairman Barfield announced that the Board has concluded its consultation with the County Attorney with
no action being taken and requested a motion to reconvene to open session.
Motion
: Commissioner Watkins MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Zapple, to return to open session. Upon
vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
The Board reconvened to the Regular Session at 4:03 p.m.
INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Reverend Dr. Thomas C. Barnett, St. John's Episcopal Church, provided the invocation and Commissioner
Watkins led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA
Chairman Barfield asked if any member of the Board would like to remove or discuss any item on the
Consent Agenda. Hearing no comments, Chairman Barfield requested a motion to approve the Consent Agenda.
Motion:
Commissioner Watkins MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Dawson, to approve the Consent
Agenda as presented. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
CONSENT AGENDA
Approval of Minutes – Governing Body
The Commissioners approved the minutes of the Regular Meeting of September 14, 2015 and the Agenda
Review of October 1, 2015, as submitted by the Clerk to the Board.
Adoption of 2016 Schedule of Agenda Review and Regular Meetings of the Board of Commissioners –
Governing Body
The Commissioners adopted the 2016 Schedule of Agenda Review and Regular Meetings of the Board of
Commissioners.
A copy of the schedule is hereby incorporated as part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book
XXXIX, Page 16.1.
Adoption of a Resolution Authorizing the New Hanover County Register of Deeds to Permanently Add a New
Hanover County Bond Ledger into the Register of Deeds Records Collection – Finance Department
The Commissioners adopted a resolution authorizing the Register of Deeds to add a bond ledger into its
permanent collection. The bond ledger contains manual records of payments for bonds issued from 1902 and later
that have been paid in full and are no longer outstanding. The Finance Department no longer needs the records and
requested they be stored permanently at the Register of Deeds.
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book
XXXIX, Page 16.2.
Adoption of Proclamation Recognizing Fire Prevention Week – Fire Services
The Commissioners adopted a proclamation recognizing the week of October 4-10, 2015 as Fire Prevention
Week with the theme "Hear the Beep Where You Sleep; Every Bedroom Needs a Working Smoke Alarm."
A copy of the proclamation is hereby incorporated as part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book
XXXIX, Page 16.3.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 33
REGULAR MEETING, OCTOBER 19, 2015 PAGE 385
Adoption of Proclamation Recognizing 2015 Food Day – Planning and Inspections Department
The Commissioners adopted a proclamation recognizing October 24, 2015, as Food Day in New Hanover
County in celebration and promotion of affordable, healthy and sustainable food. Chairman Barfield will present the
proclamation at the Food Day event at the UNCW campus on October 23, 2015.
A copy of the proclamation is hereby incorporated as part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book
XXXIX, Page 16.4.
Adoption of Proclamation Recognizing Adoption Awareness Month – Department of Social Services
The Commissioners adopted a proclamation recognizing the month of November as Adoption Awareness
Month in appreciation of the many adoptive mothers and fathers in their commitment to children and to encourage
the community to honor the special needs of the County’s children in hopes of securing a permanent, loving family
for each and every child regardless of race, age, gender, health, emotional or behavioral condition or past distress.
A copy of the proclamation is hereby incorporated as part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book
XXXIX, Page 16.5.
Acceptance of Six Donations for Accession into the Museum’s Permanent Collection – Cape Fear Museum
The Commissioners accepted six donations of regional artifacts for accession into the Cape Fear Museum’s
permanent collection. The Museum Advisory Board at its meeting on August 19, 2015 approved the objects; and a
list of the items is available for review at the Cape Fear Museum.
Approval of the 2015 Charge of Levy
The Commissioners approved the 2015 Charge of Levy to the Tax Collector pursuant to North Carolina
General Statute 105-321 and 105-347.
A copy of the charge is hereby incorporated as part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book
XXXIX, Page 16.6.
Acceptance of July 2015 Tax Collection Reports and the Annual Statement Report – Tax Department
The Commissioners accepted the Tax Collection Reports of New Hanover County and New Hanover
County Fire District as of July 2015.
Copies of the tax collection reports are hereby incorporated as part of the minutes and are contained in
Exhibit Book XXXIX, Page 16.7.
Approval of Release of the Levy for Tax Year 2005 – Tax Department
The Commissioners approved the release of the levy for tax year 2005 from the charge as the ten-year
statute of limitations prohibits using forced collection measures to collect these taxes. The amounts are deemed
insolvent and uncollectible.
A copy of the release of value is hereby incorporated as part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit
Book XXXIX, Page 16.8.
Approval of NC Education Lottery Applications in the Amount of $1,573,000 for 2015-16 Capital
Construction Projects – Strategy and Budget Department
The Commissioners approved the Board of Education’s applications for Lottery Funds for the Schools
2015-16 Capital Construction Projects as follows:
Wrightsboro – Floor Replacement/Repair $ 54,000
Laney – Painting $180,000
Various – Fire Alarm Panel Replacement $ 36,000
Eaton and Codington – Carpet Replacement $144,000
Bradley Creek – Water Heaters $ 56,000
Bellamy – Painting $ 80,000
Williams – Construction of Service Ramp $ 45,000
Laney – Restroom Renovations $425,000
Bellamy and Murray – Traffic Improvements $ 80,000
Sidbury Road – Road improvements $473,000
Total $1,573,000
Copies of the applications are available for review in the Strategy and Budget Department.
Adoption of Budget Ordinance Amendments – Strategy and Budget Department
The Commissioners adopted the following Budget Ordinance Amendments for fiscal year ending June 30,
2016:
Department of Social Services: 16-014, 16-015
Sheriff's Office: 16-016, 16-017
Soil and Water Conservation District: 16-018
Copies of the budget ordinance amendments are hereby incorporated as part of the minutes and are
contained in Exhibit Book XXXIX, Page 16.9.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 33
REGULAR MEETING, OCTOBER 19, 2015 PAGE 386
REGULAR ITEMS OF BUSINESS
PRESENTATION OF SERVICE AWARDS TO EMPLOYEES AND INTRODUCTION OF NEW
EMPLOYEES
County Manager Coudriet recognized the following retirees receiving retirement awards:
Linda Clover, Library Department, retiring with 25 years of service
Martin Adams, Sheriff’s Office, retiring with 30 years of service
Chairman Barfield presented a retirement award to each person and the Commissioners expressed
appreciation and thanked each one for their years of dedicated service.
County Manager Chris Coudriet requested the following employees to step forward to receive service
awards:
Five Year: Roxanne Pearson, Community Justice Services
Ten Year: James Iannucci, Engineering Department
Fifteen Year: Ronnie Norton, Sheriff’s Office
Blake Gentry Turner, Fire Services Department
Twenty–Five Year: Susan Sprenger, Department of Social Services
Chairman Barfield presented a service award to each employee and the Commissioners expressed
appreciation and thanked each one for their years of dedicated service.
County Manager Coudriet requested the following new employees to step forward and be introduced:
Khaled Abdalla, Property Management Department
Shenicka Banks, Department of Social Services
Jaimee Canty, Health Department
Randy Kahl, Tax Department
Mathew Phillips, Parks and Gardens Department
Jose Santos, Planning and Inspections Department
Heather Yenco, Cape Fear Museum
Cody Burns, Property Management Department
Bruce Sandy, Information Technology Department
On behalf of the Board, Chairman Barfield welcomed the employees to County Government and wished
them success in their new positions.
ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING APPROVAL TO APPLY FOR PHASE II OF TRILLIUM
HEALTH RESOURCES PLAY TOGETHER CONSTRUCTION GRANT TO REPLACE THE HUGH
MACRAE PLAYGROUND
Parks and Gardens Director Tara Duckworth requested approval to apply for the Trillium Play Together
Construction Grant to replace the existing playground at Hugh MacRae Park. The grant program encourages
communities to construct accessible playgrounds so children of all abilities can play together. Hugh MacRae Park
was chosen for the grant because of its central location, popularity and being a diverse park serving a variety of
citizens. The community will provide input on the type of equipment to construct for an all-inclusive playground for
all children. The grant requires no County match. Director Duckworth thanked the Easter Seals Disabilities
Resource Center, Access of Wilmington, and the County Schools for their letters of endorsement.
Motion
: Commissioner White MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Zapple, to adopt a resolution approving
the grant application for the Trillium Play Together Construction Grant to replace existing playground at Hugh
MacRae Park with an inclusive playground for all children. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book
XXXIX, Page 16.10.
ADOPTION OF PROCLAMATION DECLARING OCTOBER 2015 AS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
AWARENESS MONTH
Chairman Barfield reported that Andrea Stough, Advocate/Outreach Coordinator with Domestic Violence
Shelter and Services, Inc. requested the Board proclaim the month of October 2015 as Domestic Violence
Awareness Month. Commissioner Zapple read the proclamation into the record.
Motion
: Vice-Chairman Dawson MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Watkins, to adopt the proclamation
declaring October 2015 as Domestic Violence Awareness in New Hanover County as presented. Upon vote, the
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 33
REGULAR MEETING, OCTOBER 19, 2015 PAGE 387
Andrea Stough, Advocate/Outreach Coordinator with Domestic Violence Shelter and Services, Inc.,
accepted the proclamation and urged the community to work together to address the problem of domestic violence.
She thanked the Board and the community for their support of the program.
A copy of the proclamation is hereby incorporated as part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book
XXXIX, Page 16.11.
ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION APPROVING THE EXCHANGE OF SIX USED 2013 HARLEY-
DAVIDSON MOTORCYCLES FOR SIX NEW 2016 HARLEY-DAVIDSON MOTORCYCLES
Sheriff Ed McMahon reported that the Sheriff's Office owns six Harley-Davidson motorcycles acquired in
2013. Every two years, Carolina Coast Harley-Davidson permits the Sheriff's Office to exchange used Harley-
Davidson motorcycles for new ones. He requested to exchange the existing 2013 Harley-Davidson motorcycles for
new 2016 Harley-Davidson Motorcycles for the total cost to the County of $33,993, after taking into account the
$81,000 trade in value. The total cost of six new 2016 Harley-Davidson Motorcycles is $114,993.
Motion
: Commissioner Zapple MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Watkins, to adopt a resolution approving
the exchange of the six used 2013 Harley-Davidson motorcycles for six new 2016 Harley-Davidson motorcycles and
approval of budget amendments 16-019 and 16-020.
In discussion, Sheriff McMahon explained the program with Harley-Davidson and his desire not to
jeopardize the generous program provided by the company and to ensure the best possible equipment for the
officers. Commissioner White suggested that the Sheriff might want to extend the period of time the motorcycles
are traded to be more efficient and to serve citizens in a better way. Vice-Chairman Dawson suggested that the
Sheriff might need to prioritize the use of the limited forfeiture funds for other items that may be more beneficial to
the department.
Vote Result
: Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Copies of the resolution and budget ordinance amendments are hereby incorporated as part of the minutes
and are contained in Exhibit Book XXXIX, Page 16.12.
ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF THE STEPPING UP INITIATIVE – A NATIONAL
INITIATIVE TO REDUCE THE NUMBER OF PEOPLE WITH MENTAL ILLNESSES IN JAILS
Chief Strategy and Budget Officer Beth Schrader requested support for the Stepping Up Initiative that
recognizes the national problem of an estimated two million individuals who are booked into county jails with
mental illness or with concurrent substance abuse disorders. In the local facility, almost half of the inmates booked
have a substance abuse disorder or mental illness or a combination of both. They tend to have greater substantive
involvement and longer individual stays within the county jail, which is ground zero for mental health treatment for
those who are incarcerated. Recognizing the critical role that counties play, the National Association of Counties,
the Council of State Governments and their justice centers, and the American Psychiatric Foundation have come
together to create the Stepping Up Initiative designed to help counties reduce the number of the mentally ill from
going into county jails. The initiative is a national effort to raise awareness about what factors contribute to the
overrepresentation of people with mental illnesses in our jails and using innovative and evidence-based practices to
help counties drive the numbers down. By adopting the resolution, the Board would be committing to six policy
actions as follows:
Convene or draw on a diverse team of leaders and decision makers from multiple agencies committed
to reducing the prevalence of people with mental illnesses in jails.
Identify and assess the mental health needs and recidivism risk factors for adults entering jails to
measure prevalence rates and guide decision making at the system, program, and case levels.
Examine treatment and service capacity to determine which programs and services are available in the
county for people with mental illnesses and co-occurring substance use disorders and identify barriers
to change.
Develop a plan with measurable outcomes that draws on comprehensive jail data and an inventory of
available treatment and service options.
Implement research-based approaches that advance the plan.
Track progress using data and information systems.
The initiative is further supported by the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners (NCACC)
and they have encouraged all one hundred counties to adopt resolutions in support of the initiative. Additionally, the
National Sheriffs’ Association has adopted a resolution of support and has encouraged law enforcement agencies to
work with their County leaders to commit to the initiative’s six-step planning process.
Vice-Chairman Dawson spoke of her involvement with the NCACC and its Mental Health Task Force as
well as serving as chairman of the Trillium Health Resources Board and all the work that has been done in the past
year to address the issues of mental illness and she read the resolution into the record.
Motion
: Vice-Chairman Dawson MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Watkins, to adopt a resolution in
support of the Stepping Up Initiative to reduce the number of people with mental illnesses in jails. Upon vote, the
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 33
REGULAR MEETING, OCTOBER 19, 2015 PAGE 388
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book
XXXIX, Page 16.13.
APPROVAL OF INTER-AGENCY GOVERNANCE AGREEMENT ON THE HANDLING OF SCHOOL
OFFENCES
Chief District Court Judge Jay Corpening reported that an inter-agency governance agreement among New
Hanover County Schools and other community partners has been initiated to address the school to prison pipeline.
Through his effort with School Superintendent Dr. Tim Markley, a plan was defined to deal with minor offences in
the school environment. The goal is to change the behavior when it occurs on school grounds in order to make it a
teaching moment and to keep students out of the court system. As research has shown, once students start down the
road to the court system, they are more likely to continue to be involved with the criminal justice system and in
prison. The chief of police, district attorney, chief court counselor, chief public defender, and others support the
plan. The Board of Education has approved the agreement and the community agencies have agreed to sign the
Inter-agency Governance Agreement. As partners with the education and judicial systems, Judge Corpening
requested the County to become a partner in the community effort by also signing the agreement.
Dr. Markley explained that instead of the School Resource Officer (SRO) taking students from the school
to jail for the courts to deal with behavior problems, the schools would deal with the students on site as long as there
are no mitigating factors of safety concerns.
Judge Corpening added that when a county in Georgia initiated the program in 2003, they found that after
six years charges were down and incidents of misbehavior in schools were improved, graduation rates increased,
dropout rates went down, and juvenile crime in the community decreased.
The Commissioners congratulated Judge Corpening and Dr. Markley on their leadership in the effort and
expressed appreciation for the program that will deal with students’ offences on site at the schools.
Motion
: Commissioner Watkins MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Dawson, to approve the Inter-Agency
Governance Agreement in the handling of school offences and for the County to join the effort as one of the
participants signing the agreement. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
APPROVAL OF COMMUNITY JUSTICE SERVICES’ INITIATIVE TO DOUBLE THE IMPACTOF
PREVENTION AND INTERVENTION PROGRAM FOR YOUTH EMPOWERMENT SERVICES
Community Justice Services Director Kathy Stoute presented a request to double the impact of the Youth
Empowerment Services Division with a focus on prevention and intervention highlighting the following:
The demand for effective prevention and intervention programs against violence has never been
greater.
Why double the impact on local prevention services:
Youth violence remains a serious local community issue
Citizens survey report: reduce and prevent crime as number two priority
Societal costs on health, welfare and criminal justice systems
Poverty impact on the child and community
Prevention works – return on investment with evidenced base preventative care
NHCS and NHC are partners in education
Current Evidenced Based Prevention Programs:
Promoting Alternative THinking Strategies (PATHS): A model evidenced based prevention
program for at-risk youth. The program teaches modeling and reinforcing positive social
behaviors emphasizing and providing youth opportunities to belong while building supportive
family and community relationships. Goal is to develop and foster meaningful connections to
instill pro-social societal values and norms in youth.
Too Good For Violence (TGFV): A model evidenced based violence prevention program for at-
risk youth. The program implements the “C.A.R.E.-ing” approach to violence prevention by
teaching conflict resolution, anger management, respect for self and others and effective
communication. Goal is to learn how to solve conflicts peaceably and provide opportunities to
practice peacemaking and anti-bullying skills.
Currently two staff members provide the services
Resources are necessary to double the impact with a focus on prevention first:
Extend Too Good For Violence (TGFV): A program for at risk seventh and eighth graders:
Three additional staff members needed
Implement a psycho-educational group therapy component to bridge the gap in services between
the Community Justice Services (CJS) Prevention Services and the health school based mental
health clinical services:
Use the Youth Empowerment Services clinical staff and add one administrative support staff
Include a case management component to comprehensively serve the youth and family through a
care coordinated facilitation of services to engage family members in developing a long term,
concrete targeted plan towards achieving self-sufficiency
Four additional staff members needed and Second Step Program
Proposed continuum of care services of Case Management:
PATHS: third and fifth graders at-risk youth
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 33
REGULAR MEETING, OCTOBER 19, 2015 PAGE 389
TGFV: sixth – eighth graders at-risk youth
Psycho-Educational Group: sixth – eighth graders
School based mental health clinical services: kindergarten to eighth graders
Anticipated outcomes of these additional resources:
Decrease in youth involvement with the juvenile justice system
Decrease in out of school suspensions
Reduce risk factors and increase protective factors for adolescents
Decrease in aggressive bullying behaviors
Increase in social competencies and acceptance of others
Increase in older youth successfully obtaining employment and becoming independent, productive
citizens
Increase in families successfully utilizing necessary services to increase self sufficiency
Current Prevention Services of youth served with two staff members:
Case Psycho- Youth Adjudication
PATHS TGFV Management Education Post 1 Year
2011/12 105 3%
2012/13 153 15 2%
2013/14 186 41 1%
2014/15 151 60
FY 15-16 Projections:
Current staff 160 60
Additional staff +40 +30 +50 +18
FY 16-17 Projections:
Current staff 160 60
Additional staff +120 +100 +125 +60
Cost to implement additional prevention services:
Current YES Division County Funding = $233,000
Juvenile Crime Prevention Council Funding = $422,000
YES Division Budget = $654,000
Jan – Jun 2016 Funding (8 staff, programming and operations) = $233,000
FY 16/17 Full Year Funding = $421,000
In conclusion, Director Stoute said that it would be more cost effective to invest in our children while they
are in the school environment to learn and to help them develop into successful human beings, graduate from school
and become viable citizens.
Vice-Chairman Dawson thanked Director Stoute for the initiative of offering prevention services and
programs to help our youth with available mental health resources so they can be redirected on a path for a positive
life. In a related item, she reported that Trillium Health Resources through the community reinvestment fund is
sponsoring Rachael’s Challenge community meetings at middle and high schools during the months of October and
November and urged everyone to attend a meeting. Rachael’s Challenge is a national non-profit organization that
equips students and adults to create and sustain safe, caring and supportive learning environments essential for
academic achievement. The programs are based on the writings and life of 17 year-old Rachael Scott, who was the
first student killed at Columbine High School in 1999.
Commissioner White asked County Manager Coudriet to explain the reasoning of adding eight positions in
the middle of a budget year instead of during the budget process and whether any long-term job vacancies could be
substituted for the new positions.
County Manager Coudriet responded that he had planned to make the budget request next year, but
significant effort has been made by the community to address issues involving at-risk youth. He believed it to be
important to move forward and have some success before the Board considers next year’s budget and it would take
three to four months to hire the needed positions and set up the evidence-based programs. In regards to staffing, he
assured the Board that the Chief Human Resource Officer continuously looks at attrition and considers opportunities
to reclassify or redeploy positions to make sure the County has the best positions for the organization. He
recommended approving the plan as it provides funding for the vacancies and still supports other positions in the
department. Any vacancy could be reclassified to meet the proposed plan.
Commissioner White agreed that the proposal addresses an important issue in the community, but objected
to adding several positions in the middle of a budget year, as it tends to ignore priorities set during the budget
process.
County Manager Coudriet pointed out that fund balance would not be used for the positions and that the
department’s budget was reprioritize for the programs and one-time money was available to jump-start the program
with the expectation that the Board would approve for the new fiscal year.
Commissioner Zapple agreed with some of Commissioner White's concerns, but the recidivism rate from
the prevention programs show tremendous evidence of the need to expand the programs immediately.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 33
REGULAR MEETING, OCTOBER 19, 2015 PAGE 390
Chairman Barfield noted that a series of community meetings were held over the last year and a half with
the City taking the lead that called for addressing the needs of the youth by providing the resources and tools to deal
with the at-risk youth and mental health problems. He thanked Ms. Stoute for her dedication and advocacy for the
youth in the community.
Motion
: Chairman Barfield MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Dawson, to approve funding in FY 2015-16
for the requested expansion of the Community Justice Services prevention programming and services in the amount
of $233,000 and approve related Budget Amendment 16-022. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED 4 to 1.
Commissioner White voted in opposition.
A copy of the budget ordinance amendment is hereby incorporated as part of the minutes and is contained
in Exhibit Book XXXIX, Page 16.14.
APPROVAL OF LEASE AGREEMENT AND INTER-LOCAL AGREEMENT REGARDING SALES TAX
WITH THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD
Chief Financial Officer Lisa Wurtzbacher reported that the County and County Schools pay a 7% sales tax
rate for purchases of goods; however, the County is eligible for a full reimbursement of the taxes, whereas the
School Board can only request a refund of the local sales tax portion. The School Board approved, at their October
6, 2015 meeting, an inter-local agreement and a lease agreement that would assist in obtaining the state sales tax
refunds for the School Board. This would allow the sales tax paid on bond projects to be refunded and used for
additional capital projects. The School Board approved leasing those school facilities with associated capital
projects to the County, thus allowing the County to request the local and state sales tax refund. Wake County and
the Wake County Board of Education have used this method and the arrangement has been accepted by the
Department of Revenue. The inter-local agreement allows for the receipt of new money to be used for payment of
debt service on school capital projects funded through general obligation bonds.
In response to questions from the Board, Ms. Wurtzbacher said that School staff estimated the refund to be
$1 million to $1.5 million. She explained that the sales tax refund would be based on documents submitted for bond
payments on the capital projects and the state refund would be used to supplement the Schools capital projects. The
lease agreement would include bond projects for school facilities that are being renovated or for new construction.
Other school capital projects that have operating expenditures would not be included in the lease agreement at this
time. School Superintendent Dr. Markley confirmed that smaller projects, such as classroom renovations, would not
qualify for the arrangement.
Motion
: Vice-Chairman Dawson MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Zapple, to approve the lease agreement
and sales tax inter-local agreement with the New Hanover School Board. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION AWARDING BID TO THYSSENKRUPP ELEVATOR CORPORATION
FOR MODERNIZATION OF ELEVATORS AT THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY JUDICIAL BUILDING
Property Management Director Jerome Fennell reported that bids were solicited from qualified elevator
installers to modernize four elevators at the Judicial Building. The County asked that the bids include the cost of a
fifth elevator in their proposal, which would only be awarded if the total cost of all five elevators were lower than
the $640,000 budgeted for the project. Initially one bid was received and the bid was re-advertised with the same
bidder responding. The total cost of the bid was $775,000, including a $621,966 base bid and a $153,034 bid
alternate for a fifth elevator. As the elevators are over 35 years of age and the cost of maintenance is increasing,
staff recommends awarding the bid to ThyssenKrupp in the amount of $621,966 for the four elevators, which is
included in the Budget.
In response to concerns about the fifth elevator, Director Fennell explained that only four of the elevators
could be completed in the current fiscal year and the fifth elevator could be done in the next Budget, possibly in
July.
County Manager Coudriet reported that funding was not available for a fifth elevator and he could not
recommend that the Board approve the purchase at this time. If five elevators could have been done within the
budget amount authorized, he would have made the request. Nonetheless, the Board would have to reset priorities in
the Budget for the $153,000 purchase, as the funds are not available other than for the four elevators.
Motion
: Commissioner Watkins MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Zapple, to adopt a resolution awarding a
bid for the modernization of elevators at the New Hanover County Judicial Building to ThyssenKrupp in the amount
of $621,966 for four elevators and to exempt this project from the prequalification requirement due to the fact that
this project is primarily an equipment purchase with incidental construction. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book
XXXIX, Page 16.15.
APPROVAL TO PURCHASE PROPERTY AT 7375 MARKET STREET FOR THE OGDEN FIRE
STATION
Fire Chief Donnie Hall reported that New Hanover County Fire Rescue has operated out of a leased facility
located at 7375 Market Street since September 2009. The pre-engineered metal building, constructed in 1968, has
received several modifications over the years. However, the building’s layout does not provide for a functional
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 33
REGULAR MEETING, OCTOBER 19, 2015 PAGE 391
modern fire and emergency services facility. After researching other properties, it was determined that purchasing
the existing facility and rebuilding on site would be the best option. The County has an option to purchase the
property with Ogden Volunteer Fire Rescue Association in the amount of $650,000 and funding is available in the
Fire District Budget for the purchase.
In response to questions from the Board, Fire Chief Hall responded that fire protection services would not
be interrupted during the purchase of the property or rebuilding of the facility.
Motion
: Commissioner Watkins MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Zapple, to execute an option to
purchase Ogden Fire Station 16 at 7375 Market Street, in the amount of $650,000. Upon vote, the MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
APPROVAL OF BALD EAGLE LANE PROJECT FINAL COST DETERMINATION RESOLUTION
Chief Financial Officer Lisa Wurtzbacher reported that the Bald Eagle Lane Water Improvement Project
was adopted by the Board on November 13, 2012 in partnership with Cape Fear Public Utility Authority (CFPUA)
as a way to provide clean water to an area of the County that was experiencing salt water intrusion in their wells and
to provide fire flow to the area assisting the County Fire Services with access to water in a fire event. The
installation of the water lines has been completed and homes are beginning to connect to the water lines. The area
of the benefitted properties are along Bald Eagle Lane to Futch Creek Road and will be listed on the final
preliminary assessment roll.
The total project cost estimated at $883,645 would be funded through contributions from CFPUA, County
Fire Services, and an assessment from property owners. In a review of all charges associated with the project, the
final cost is as follows:
Engineering $73,357
Construction 722,693
Other 461
Total Project Cost $796,511
Less: Fire Services (to up-size lines for fire hydrants) (256,000)
Less: Cape Fear Public Utility Authority (330,000)
Total Assessments $210,511
Assessment Timeline:
October 23, 2015:
Publish notice of Public Hearing on preliminary assessment roll
Mail preliminary assessment roll notice – First Class postage
Clerk maintains roll for public inspection
November 2, 2015:
Public Hearing/confirm assessment roll
November 22, 2015:
Publish notice of confirmation of final assessment roll and mail assessments to the property
owners
Chief Finance Officer Wurtzbacher requested the Board to adopt a resolution approving the Determination
of Costs as required by General Statute 153A-193 and scheduling a public hearing on November 2, 2015.
In discussion of CFPUA’s capacity, County Engineer Jim Iannucci explained that CFPUA tied in the Bald
Eagle Lane project with other projects in the area of Futch Creek Road and Porters Neck Road and they would have
capacity for additional developments to connect.
In response to questions from the Board, Ms. Wurtzbacher explained that the initial funding was provided
through the general fund and would be repaid from CFPUA and the assessment on each lot from property owners.
She estimated that roughly 200 property owners would be assessed approximately $1,000 and they would be able to
make three annual installment payments.
Chairman Barfield requested direction from the Board.
Motion
: Commissioner Watkins MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Dawson, to adopt the resolution
approving: 1.) The project costs for the project of water improvement at Bald Eagle Lane to now be assessed at
$210,511; 2.) County staff is directed to prepare a preliminary assessment roll and a project map, to mail to each
owner a Notice of Hearing, and to prepare and publish all required notices; and 3.) A public hearing to consider the
preliminary assessment roll for costs is set for November 2, 2015 at 4:00 p.m., or thereafter, at the New Hanover
County Courthouse, 24 N. Third Street, Room 301, in Wilmington, North Carolina. Upon vote, the MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book
XXXIX, Page 16.16.
BREAK
: Chairman Barfield called a break from 5:51 p.m. until 6:10 p.m.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 33
REGULAR MEETING, OCTOBER 19, 2015 PAGE 392
PUBLIC HEARING AND DENIAL OF REQUEST BY CINDEE WOLF OF DESIGN SOLUTIONS ON
BEHALF OF THE PROPERTY OWNERS, TF HOLDINGS LTD. PARTNERSHIP, LLC, RACHEL
TRASK GONSALVES HEIRS, AND NEW BEGINNING CHRISTIAN CHURCH, INC., TO REZONE 73.08
ACRES AT THE 3000 BLOCK OF BLUE CLAY ROAD FROM R-20 RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT TO R-10
RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT (Z-944, 9/15)
Chairman Barfield stated that he is a member of the New Beginning Christian Church and there has been
discussion on whether he should recuse himself from voting on the rezoning of the church’s property. He requested
County Attorney Copley to give her opinion on the rules for recusal.
County Attorney Copley responded that the N. C. General Statutes require an elected official to vote on any
matter before the Board unless the Commissioner has a substantial direct financial interest in a matter. In this
rezoning matter, as a member and elder of the church, Mr. Barfield will not be recouping any direct or indirect
financial impact. She referenced written articles from the Institute of Government that state a Commissioner has a
duty to vote on matters before the Board.
Chairman Barfield said that he is a member of many organizations within the community as well as a
member of the New Beginning Christian Church and he is duty-bound to vote on issues pertaining to any of the
organizations. Because of being a Realtor, he recused himself when a matter came before the Board that he had a
financial interest; and he would recuse himself again if the Board considers an item of any financial interest or
impact to him.
Chairman Barfield opened the public hearing and requested staff to make the presentation.
Current Planner Brad Schuler presented the request submitted by Cindee Wolf of Design Solutions on
behalf of the property owners, TF Holdings Ltd. Partnership, LLC, Rachel Trask Gonsalves Heirs, and New
Beginning Christian Church, Inc., to rezone 73.08 acres at the 3000 block of Blue Clay Road from R-20 Residential
District to R-10 Residential District and presented a slide overview of the request. He explained the type of petition
and clarified that the Board would not consider specific site plans or be able to place any conditions on the straight
rezoning request. If approved, the property owner would be allowed to submit a development specific application in
accordance with the regulations. The standards for the performance residential subdivision would allow 138 units in
the R-20 District and 241 units for the R-10 District with similar permitted uses in both districts.
The rezoning request includes four parcels located approximately one-quarter mile north of the intersection
of Blue Clay Road and Kerr Avenue. Zoning in the vicinity consists of mostly residential and industrial districts.
The residential districts of R-10, R-15, and R-20 are to the west and north of the property. Adjoining the property to
the north is a large tract of R-10 zoning, approximately 260 acres in area, which contains Ivy Woods and
Runnymeade subdivisions. The industrial districts of I-2 and AI are located to the east and south of the property and
contain the North Kerr Industrial Park and Wilmington International Airport. To the west is mostly residential
neighborhoods and Wrightsboro Elementary School.
County Engineer Jim Iannucci provided a slide overview of the parcels illustrating various drainage paths
on site and explained that drainage standards (adopted in 2000) require the developer to analyze and control runoff
through infiltration, retention, and low-impact stormwater systems. State regulations (implemented in 1980) require
a development to meet water quality aspects and pre and post requirements of a 25-year storm event. Property
owners cannot change the flow patterns and they must keep existing ditches or drainage conveyances clear to protect
the natural and manmade resources. He noted that some older subdivisions may have stormwater systems built to
handle a 10-year rain event and these ditches may be filled with vegetation.
Current Planner Schuler reported that the Wilmington Metropolitan Planning Organization conducted a
traffic count in 2014 on Blue Clay Road between Kerr Avenue and Old Mill Road and found that the road operates
at a level of service of “A,” meaning that travel is at free flow. That portion of the road has a capacity of over
15,000 daily trips and the average daily trip count was approximately 5,500. A traffic impact analysis (TIA) is
required for a development generating more than 100 trips per hour; however, the results of a TIA cannot be
considered although a study has been completed for a site plan. An R-20 subdivision of 138 units would generate
1,400 trips per day and 241 units in an R-10 would generate 2,300 trips per day.
The property is classified as Aquifer Resource Protection, which occurs in the northwest part of the County
north of Smith Creek, and is the secondary recharge area of the Castle Hayne and Pee Dee Aquifers. Impacts to the
resource are diminished recharge of the aquifer and contamination of the aquifer by inappropriate land uses. Areas
within the Aquifer Resource Protection subclass are encouraged to develop larger lots if septic systems are used to
prevent cross contamination of wells, or to extend water and sewer service to curtail septic system use. Land uses
that pose risk of spills of hazardous materials should be prevented. Adjacent developments of Ivy Woods and
Runnymeade and Kerr Industrial Park have water and sewer service. Cape Fear Public Utility Authority (CFPUA)
requires water and/or sewer to be extended within developments when located within 500 feet of an existing water
or sewer main. Developments within R-10 Districts typically connect to a centralized sewer system in order to
achieve a density allowed by that district, which would achieve the goal of the resource protection area.
.
Kent Harold, Engineering Manager with CFPUA, pointed out available sewer service on a map of the Blue
Clay Road area and noted that water is unavailable at this time. He reported that the northwest force main recently
was placed into service and he confirmed developer Burrows Smith paid $4 million for the sewer installation.
Property owners along Holland Drive would be able connect to water and sewer services because of the force main
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 33
REGULAR MEETING, OCTOBER 19, 2015 PAGE 393
and pump station installation. Whether zoned R-10 or R-15, the property will be required to construct and connect
with the sewer system.
Staff recommends the approval of the application and concludes that it is consistent with the requirements
of the Zoning Ordinance and the 2006 CAMA Land Use Plan. It is consistent with Policy 3.28, as it should preserve
the Castle Hayne and Pee Dee Aquifers as the primary groundwater resources for the County. Development of the
properties will require the extension of water and sewer to the area. The policy further states that densities in the
Aquifer Resource Protection classification should be limited to 2.5 units per acre unless sewer service is provided.
The Planning Board voted 4 to 1 for approval at its meeting on September 3, 2015.
Chairman Barfield requested the petitioner to make comments.
Cindee Wolf of Design Solutions on behalf of the property owners, TF Holdings Ltd. Partnership, LLC,
Rachel Trask Gonsalves Heirs, and New Beginning Christian Church, Inc., presented the rezoning request.
Currently 139 units or 1.9 units per acre are allowed in the R-20 district. The property borders Blue Clay Road and
is a half mile from the intersection of North Kerr Avenue. Both roads are considered major highways in the
County’s Transportation Classification Map. Ms. Wolf presented the following additional factors in support of
rezoning the property to R-10 District:
Transition of Uses:
The concept of transitioning uses from the most intense to the least is a common planning
principle.
Aging, empty-nester and single-person households will dominate America’s housing markets in
the future. It is unlikely that their housing preferences will conform to the larger parcel template
that has dominated suburbs for two generations.
R-10 is a medium-density residential district. 73.08 acres = 241 Units
Performance Residential Development allows a maximum density of 3.3 units per acre.
R-10 is the logical transition between the industrial intensity along the opposite side of Blue Clay
Road, and the development pattern to the west.
County Zoning Ordinance:
The R-10 Residential District is established as a district in which the principal use of land is for
residential purposes with access to either public water or public sewer.
Public water and sanitary sewer mains are available for connection at two locations.
County Stormwater Ordinance Division 6. Section 23-431 – New Development:
New development requires stormwater management to protect the overall water quality by
attenuation and treatment of the runoff before it infiltrates into the aquifer or travels into the
natural drainage patterns.
Stormwater runoff measures for new development shall be designed, constructed and maintained
by the owner of the property in accordance with the provisions of this article.
Photos of a recent major rain event showed ditches were working properly on the roadside, but
non-road side ditches were not functioning properly and would need to be addressed.
Traffic impact analysis for the parcels shows no substantial difference in the service level of “A” for
the surrounding roads. In 2018, the normal increase in traffic would not substantially change with any
road improvement and access to these parcels are predicted at service level “B.”
Rezoning Justification:
The rezoning is consistent with the County’s Policies for Growth and Development:
Sustainability of the County depends on sensible infill and maximizing use of lands already
accessible to urban services.
A greater density of single-family development not only increases tax base, but also makes
better use of the existing infrastructure.
Higher-density is not consistent with the Land Classification:
Public water and sanitary sewer services negate the concern of private wells diminishing the
capacity of the aquifers and of septic systems contaminating the aquifers:
500-foot rule is for a new developments or frontage on a system.
Homes on Holland Drive are within 500 feet of sewer but would not be made to connect;
homes with failing septic systems could connect to protect the aquifers.
The R-10 District is in harmony with the area:
The R-10 District would be consistent with the concept of transitioning uses from more to less
intense, with the industrial uses and railroad across Blue Clay Road and the more rural
development across Holland Drive.
The adjacent Ivy Woods residential development is similarly zoned R-10. The rezoning
would not be a new district in the area, but an expansion of an existing district.
In response to questions from the Board concerning Performance Residential Development, Ms. Wolf
explained that the County's ordinance allows for a more creative and flexible development pattern than a
conventional rezoning, where every lot is a particular size. Current regulations require recreational space,
sidewalks, and stormwater management. Some flexibility is given for smaller lots in exchange for setting aside open
space (.03 of an acre for each unit). Planner Schuler agreed saying certain items are deducted from the calculation,
such as natural ponds, rivers, marshes, and class IV soils. There is no minimum lot size.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 33
REGULAR MEETING, OCTOBER 19, 2015 PAGE 394
Chairman Barfield stated that three people have signed up to speak in opposition of the request.
Jennifer Dorton of Long Leaf Drive and David Cuomo of Galway Road spoke in opposition of the request
highlighting the following information with pictures of the area:
Current Conditions:
Road Conditions:
Several state roads in the neighborhood are in disrepair and need repaving.
Two sinkholes are located on Old Mill Road near Blue Clay Road.
Flooding Conditions:
Neighborhoods, especially the R-10 areas of Runnymeade and Ivy Woods experience heavy
flooding caused by poor drainage, the amount of impervious surface, and the county/state not
maintaining drainage infrastructure.
Additional R-10 development may add to the problem since it will increase impervious surface
and runoff.
Pictures show flooded streets of Alex Trask Drive, Old Mill Road, and Barrow Street, as well as
ditches full of rainwater along Long Leaf Drive from recent rainstorm.
R-20 development in Wrightsboro Acres does not encounter the same flooding conditions as
neighboring R-10 developments.
Rezoning Concerns:
R-10 will allow up to 241 homes on a 73.08-acre parcel of land.
Planning Board Chair said during the September 3, 2015 meeting that the development would be
“starter homes.” A development plan has not been provided to the public or available for
neighborhoods to consider.
R-10 zoning is proposed in an area classified as an Aquifer Resource Protection Area:
The Castle Hayne and Pee Dee aquifers are used by Cape Fear Public Utilities Authority to
provide water across the county.
One reason for classification is the sensitivity to pollutants.
The aquifer is shallow in the northern part of the county, so there is less protection between land
use activities and the aquifer.
Impacts to recharge of aquifers have not been identified and should be assessed:
A hydrological study should be conducted to determine if higher density development would
adversely affect the aquifer recharge rates and water quality.
Increased impervious surface due to R-10 development will increase run-off and contaminants.
Drainage/flooding problems will be exacerbated due to increased impervious surface:
No maintenance of neighborhood ditches and drainage infrastructure causes problems.
Traffic count conducted on Blue Clay Road:
The Blue Clay Road traffic count did not consider traffic impacts within the surrounding
neighborhoods or Castle Hayne Road.
Traffic effects Holland Drive, Long Leaf Drive, and Old Mill Road, as these roads are access
points to Castle Hayne Road, which is the main road used to access Wilmington, I-140, and Castle
Hayne.
Wrightsboro Elementary School traffic:
School traffic causes congestion on neighborhood streets.
Cars waiting in long lines on Sheridan, Fern, and Longleaf for student pick-up/drop-off.
Requests:
Residents in surrounding neighborhoods are not against development but request R-20 District to
remain.
If Commissioners allow higher density development, residents request R-15 Conditional or R-10
Conditional Zoning:
Conditional Zoning requires a site plan.
The site plan would identify road connectivity, buffers for existing neighborhoods, water
retention and drainage areas.
Traffic analysis required.
Consider effects to Aquifer Resource Protection Area.
Zoning Ordinance: “The regulations of R-20 District are intended to discourage any use which
because of its character would substantially interfere with the development of residences and
which would be detrimental to the quiet residential nature of the areas included within this
district.”
Neighborhood is a quiet, residential area and the community desires for it to remain that way.
In summary, Ms. Dorton urged the Commissioners deny the R-10 Rezoning request and encourage the
developer to submit a conditional rezoning request so that the neighborhoods could be involved in the development
plans and address concerns about school traffic and road conditions.
In rebuttal, Ms. Wolf responded that property owners might want to contact NCDOT for road repairs, as
the state is responsible for maintenance. Regarding older subdivisions, drainage issues may occur because
stormwater management was not required when developed. Current engineering techniques and County regulations
used in new developments have shown improvements in stormwater management in older subdivisions. In regards
to the TIA, she assured the Commissioners that the study included traffic counts of other intersections in the
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 33
REGULAR MEETING, OCTOBER 19, 2015 PAGE 395
vicinity. The Galway Road connection was not built to NCDOT standards and would need correcting no matter the
zoning district. In closing, she believed that conditional zoning is intended for site-specific developments of
commercial and industrial uses and rezoning the property to R-10 Residential would be consistent with planning
guidelines and principles because of its location on a major thoroughfare and its proximity to railroad tracks and
industrial property.
In rebuttal, Ms. Dorton said the petitioner downplayed the traffic issues and that the community would be
more acceptable to the conditional rezoning.
Damatta Lizneth complained about flooding problems in the neighborhood due to recent rainstorm.
Laura Mclean, a resident of Holland Drive, reported that she and her neighbors have dealt with several
rezoning request over the years and that the County no longer keeps the records of past subdivisions and rezoning
issues. She expressed concerned about the flooding issues of the neighborhood and her property. She believed the
Castle Hayne corridor was mismanaged and traffic impeded by railcars passing through the area three or four times
a day. She requested that these problems be resolved before rezoning and developing any property. In addition, she
expressed concern about the cost of hooking up the older homes to water and sewer services.
There being no further comments, Chairman Barfield closed the public hearing.
In response to questions on how a developer chooses the number of units to build, Ms. Wolf explained that
in general a developer looks at the cost benefit for a development and tries to maximize the density based on the
costs of the infrastructures, types of amenities, and the desired lot sizes.
Vice-Chairman Dawson stated the Commissioners recognized that the property owners in the older
neighborhoods were very concerned about the proposed development and that the Board desires to make reasonable
and fair decisions. In order to maintain the character and sense of community, she proposed that the property along
Holland Drive from Alex Trask Drive to Blue Clay Road remain in the R-20 District to a depth of 200 feet and the
other parcels be rezoned to R-10. Later, the developer could come back to the Board with a request for conditional
rezoning on the remaining 6 acres of the R-20 parcel.
Planning and Inspections Director Chris O’Keefe responded that the Board could change the rezoning
request for that portion as proposed by Vice-Chairman Dawson; however, the Board could not place any conditions
on the position of the lots. The design of the new subdivision might result in a non-conformance issue.
Commissioner Watkins suggested that based on the topography of the parcels, the property adjacent to
Holland Drive might be a suitable location for a retention pond. Commissioner Zapple suggested that any new
development would make significant improvements in stormwater management for the surrounding area as well as
bring water and sewer services to the area. Furthermore, he believed that a major benefit would be protecting the
aquifer by the elimination of septic systems. Commissioner White stated he did not support rezoning a large tract of
land to a higher density.
The Commissioners continued discussion with staff and Ms. Wolf for further clarification of regulations for
R-10 Districts, Conditional Use and Performance Developments, as well as other options for the property with
buffering and stormwater management. The majority of the Commissioners agreed that conditional zoning gives the
neighborhood and the Board an assurance of how the community is developed.
Chairman Barfield informed the petitioner that if a rezoning request is denied, a new application may only
be submitted within 12 months of the denial if there is a substantial change in the original petition for rezoning. He
asked whether the petitioner wanted to continue the application to a future meeting or to proceed with the Board
deciding whether to grant or deny the application. Ms. Wolfe requested the Board to proceed with the decision.
Chairman Barfield requested direction from the Board.
Motion
: Commissioner Zapple MOVED, SECONDED by Chairman Barfield, to approve the rezoning request as
the Board of Commissioners finds that this application for a zoning map amendment of 73.08 acres from R-20
Residential District, to R-10 Residential District as described is: 1.) Consistent with the purposes and intent of the
“Aquifer Resource Protection” land use classification in the 2006 CAMA Land Use Plan because the application is
requesting a residential zoning district that typically utilizes a centralized sewer system, and therefore it should not
diminish the recharge of surrounding aquifers; and 2.) Reasonable and in the public interest because it provides for
increased density in areas best suited for development while not impeding the quality of life of the existing
residential communities. Upon vote, the MOTION FAILED 2 to 3. Vice-Chairman Dawson and Commissioners
Watkins and White voted in opposition of the rezoning.
COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS
New Hanover County Board of Examiners of Electricians
Chairman Barfield reported that two vacancies exist on the Board of Examiners of Electricians with one
applicant eligible for consideration and requested direction from the Board.
Motion
: Commissioner White MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Dawson, to appoint Matthew K. Powell
to serve a two-year term on the Board of Examiners of Electricians with the term expiring September 1, 2017 and to
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 33
REGULAR MEETING, OCTOBER 19, 2015 PAGE 396
re-advertise the remaining vacancy for an electrical contractor. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
New Hanover County Board of Mechanical Examiners
Chairman Barfield reported that three vacancies exist on the Board of Mechanical Examiners with four
applications available for consideration and requested direction from the Board.
Vice-Chairman Dawson nominated David B. Sims, Jr. for the NC Registered Mechanical Engineer
position.
Commissioner Zapple nominated Larry Lisk and Bruce Polity for the Mechanical Contractor positions.
Vote Results
: The Board voted UNANIMOUSLY to reappoint Larry Lisk, Bruce Polity, and David B. Sims, Jr. to
serve two-year terms on the Board of Mechanical Examiners with terms expiring August 31, 2017.
New Hanover County Jury Commission
Chairman Barfield reported that one vacancy exists on the Jury Commission with one new application
available for consideration and nominated Charles E. Blanton for appointment.
Vote Result
: The Board voted UNANIMOUSLY to appoint Charles C. Blanton to serve a two-year term on the
Jury Commission with the term expiring on October 31, 2017.
Southeastern Economic Development Commission
Chairman Barfield reported that a vacancy exists on the Southeastern Economic Development Commission
for a minority representative from the economic development community. The applicant presented was not eligible
for appointment and directed the Clerk to re-advertise for a qualified applicant.
ADDITIONAL ITEMS
Acceptance of the State of Emergency Proclamation and Termination of the State of Emergency
County Manager Coudriet reported that Emergency Management/911 Director Warren Lee was present to
request termination of the State of Emergency put into place due to the imminent threat of Hurricane Joaquin and the
torrential rain forecast.
Director Lee said that the floodwaters were receding throughout the county and he reported on a
conversation he had with the construction team for the new school on Edgewater Club Road noting that the
construction plans should alleviate some of the standing water issues in the area.
Motion
: Commissioner Watkins MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Dawson, to adopt a resolution
terminating the State of Emergency. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Copies of the proclamation and resolution are hereby incorporated as part of the minutes and are contained
in Exhibit Book XXXIX, Page 16.17.
PUBLIC COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS
Chairman Barfield reported that no one from the public had signed up to speak on non-agenda items.
COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
Commissioner Zapple recognized the passing of James H. Faison Jr., who passed away on September 21,
2015 at the age of 89. In 1968, he became the first full-time black instructor at Cape Fear Technical
Institute, which is now Cape Fear Community College, where he pioneered the training program for
employees of major industries in the area. As an educator, Mr. Faison dedicated his life to making the
community a better place to live affecting the lives of many citizens.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, Chairman Barfield adjourned the meeting at 8:40 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Teresa P. Elmore
Clerk to the Board
Please note that the above minutes are not a verbatim record of the New Hanover County Board of Commissioners meeting. The
entire proceedings are available for review and checkout at all New Hanover County Libraries and on-line at www.nhcgov.com.