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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2002-11-25 Regular Meeting NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERSBOOK 29 REGULAR MEETING, NOVEMBER 25, 2002PAGE 392 ASSEMBLY The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners met in Regular Session on Monday, November 25, 2002, at 9:00 a.m. in the Assembly Room of the New Hanover County Courthouse, 24 North Third Street, Wilmington, North Carolina. Members present were: Chairman Ted Davis, Jr.; Vice-Chairman Robert G. Greer; Commissioner Julia Boseman; Commissioner William A. Caster; Commissioner Nancy H. Pritchett; County Manager, Allen O’Neal; County Attorney, Wanda M. Copley; and Clerk to the Board, Lucie F. Harrell. Chairman Davis called the meeting to order and welcomed everyone present. He requested persons with cell phones or pagers to cut off the equipment to prevent being disruptive during presentations and deliberations by the Board of County Commissioners. INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Director of Human Relations Carl A. Byrd, Sr. gave the invocation. Vice-Chairman Greer led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. ITEM 4 REMOVED FROM THE REGULAR AGENDA - CONSIDERATION OF STAFFING FOR THE SHERIFF’S DETENTION FACILITY Chairman Davis announced that Sheriff-Elect Sidney Causey and Vice-Chairman Greer, have requested that Item 4 be removed from the Regular Agenda and heard at the December 16, 2002, meeting of the Board. Consensus: It was the consensus of the Board to remove Item 4 from the Regular Agenda. INTRODUCTION OF NEW CITY MANAGER County Manager O’Neal introduced the new City Manager, Mr. Sterling Cheatham, to the members of the Board and Staff. On behalf of the Board, Chairman Davis welcomed Mr. Cheatham to New Hanover County and stated that the members of the Board look forward to working with him for the benefit of all citizens living in the City and County. Discussion followed on the status of calling a joint meeting between the Wilmington City Council and New Hanover County Board of Commissioners to discuss consolidation. County Manager O’Neal advised that he had spoken to Mr. Cheatham about scheduling a joint meeting and stated that an effort will be made to move as quickly as possible to find a convenient date for both governing bodies. Chairman Davis spoke on consolidation being an important issue and requested County Manager O’Neal to pursue scheduling a meeting with the Wilmington City Council and New Hanover County Board of Education as soon as possible. County Manager O’Neal assured the Board that he would schedule both meetings. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA Chairman Davis asked if any member of the Board would like to discuss or remove an item from the Consent Agenda. Commissioner Caster requested further discussion of Consent Agenda Items 5 and 6. After hearing no further comments Chairman Davis requested Commissioner Caster to comment on Consent Agenda Items 5 and 6. Commissioner Caster referenced the appointment of a non-county resident to serve on the Child Fatality Prevention Team and asked if the person was eligible to be appointed. Assistant County Manager Patricia A. Melvin responded that after speaking with Ms. Janet McCumbee, she was informed that the Child Fatality Prevention Team recommended the appointment of both applicants with no concern for one appointee being a non-county resident. Commissioner Caster referenced Consent Agenda Item 5 regarding a $300,000 grant for the Tobacco Use Prevention and Cessation Program and asked how UNCW became involved in the program. Health Educator Elisabeth Constandy explained that the Teen Tobacco Use Prevention and Cessation Program is a coalition comprised of the New Hanover County School System, UNCW Crossroads Co-Op, and the Coastal Horizons Center. The programs are conducted at schools located in New Hanover County and Brunswick County. Commissioner Caster responded that his concerns had been addressed about both items on the Consent Agenda. After hearing no further comments, Chairman Davis called for a motion to approve the items on the Consent Agenda. Motion: Commissioner Pritchett MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Caster, to approve the items on the Consent Agenda as presented. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERSBOOK 29 REGULAR MEETING, NOVEMBER 25, 2002PAGE 393 CONSENT AGENDA Approval of Minutes The Commissioners approved the minutes of the Regular Meeting held on November 12, 2002 as presented by the Clerk to the Board. Authorization for the Department of Aging to Apply for a Senior Center Outreach Grant The Commissioners authorized the Department of Aging to submit a grant application for a Senior Center Outreach grant (state money) in the amount of $1,470. If approved, the Department of Aging will implement a medical equipment/medical supply program for elderly persons who are unable to afford the cost of these items. The grant requires a match of $163, which is included in the department’s approved budget for FY 2002-2003. The County Manager was authorized to accept the funds and approve the budget amendment if the grant is approved. Authorization for the Department of Aging to Apply for Senior Center General Purpose Funds The Commissioners authorized the Department of Aging to submit a grant application for Senior Center General Purpose funds (state monies) in the amount of $7,631. These funds are available to all Senior Centers that are recognized as Senior Centers of Excellence. Funding required for the 10% match ($848) is in the department’s approved budget for FY 2002-2003. These funds will be placed in a salary line item to offset the County’s cost of the salary for the Senior Center Program Manager. The Chairman of the Board was authorized to execute the grant application, and the County Manager was authorized to approve the required budget amendment, if the grant is awarded. Authorization to Set Up New Bank Account with Bank of America for the New Hanover County Tourism Development Authority d/b/a Cape Fear Coast Convention and Visitors Bureau The Commissioners authorized the Finance Director to set up of a new bank account with the Bank of America for the New Hanover County Tourism Development Authority d/b/a Cape Fear Coast Convention and Visitors Bureau effective January 1, 2003 for the operation of the new entity. This authorization includes approval of the Bank of America Certified Copy of the Unincorporated Association Resolutions opening and maintaining deposit accounts and services, and the Business Signature Card for the New Hanover County Tourism Development Authority d/b/a Cape Fear Coast Convention and Visitors Bureau. Copies of the resolutions are on file in the Finance Department. Appointment of Dr. Sonja Brown and Ms. Donna Brown Smith to Serve on the Child Fatality Prevention Team The Commissioners approved the appointment of Dr. Sonja Brown and Ms. Donna Brown Smith to serve on the Child Fatality Prevention Team. Vacancies on the Team are required to be filled by a law enforcement officer and a representative of the general community. Ms. Donna Brown Smith is a Detective Sergeant in the Wilmington Police Department. This team reviews child deaths in the community and recommends ways to prevent future deaths. These recommendations, which have included requirements for use of bike helmets and a graduated licensing for teens, are submitted to the N. C. Division of Health and Human Services. Authorization for the Health Department to Submit a Grant Application to the North Carolina Health and Wellness Trust Fund Commission to Implement a Teen Tobacco Use Prevention and Cessation Program The Commissioners authorized the Health Department to submit a grant application in the amount of $300,000 to the North Carolina Health and Wellness Trust Fund Commission to implement a Teen Tobacco Use Prevention and Cessation Program as recommended by the Board of Health. Funds will be used to contract with New Hanover County Schools, UNCW, and other community youth organizations to provide more intensive youth tobacco prevention programs. If the grant is awarded, the State will appropriate $100,000 per year for each of the three years. A Tobacco Use Prevention Educator will be hired and housed within the school system to provide direct contact, service, and consultation to students and faculty. No local match is required, and the County will not be expected to continue the program after the grant expires. The position will be eliminated if grant funds are no longer received. Acceptance of Tax Collection Reports Through October 31, 2002 The Commissioners accepted the following Tax Collection Reports through October 31,2002, as submitted by the Collector of the Revenue, Patricia J. Raynor: New Hanover County Fire District New Hanover County Copies of the Tax Collection Reports are hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and are contained in Exhibit Book XXVIII, Page 3.1. Release of Values - Tax Department The Commissioners approved release of late listing penalties for the following taxpayers as this was the taxpayer’s first offense or they certified the listing had been mailed on time: Brinson, Phillip Edna $ 5.58 Catch an Experience, Inc. $ 262.20 NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERSBOOK 29 REGULAR MEETING, NOVEMBER 25, 2002PAGE 394 O'Leary, Sean P. Kathy L. $ 315.00 CTI of North Carolina, Inc. $5,846.00 Power Play Amusements, Inc. $ 14.18 Williamsville Brewery, Ltd. $6,477.46 The Commissioners approved Senior Citizen/Disability Exclusions for the following taxpayers: Caldwell, Doris Turner $ 64,089 Conway, Rosina A. $ 52,978 Flowers, Virginia $ 18,244 Furches, Mary C. $ 64,664 Holmes, Willie Franklin $ 26,728 Johnson, Elizabeth C. $ 45,085 Johnson, Rebecca $ 20,000 Luegge, Harriette R. $ 50,936 McDonald, Elisha C. $ 18,571 Nigro, Magdalena $ 65,662 Redmond, Mary S. $ 51,516 Wilson, Alice Mae $ 31,764 Wilson, Betty C. $ 64,229 The Commissioners approved a delinquent application for exemption from the property tax for the following organization: New Covenant Holiness Church R05410-023-007-000 R05410-023-009-000 R05423-023-010-000 R05410-029-027-000 Approval of a Correction of Value for Robert Warren Fehr, Parcel R07908-003-055-000 for Years 1999 Through 2001 The Commissioners approved a correction of value for Robert Warren Fehr for parcel #RO7908-003-055-000 for the years 1999, 2000 and 2001. During the Tax Department's review of the property to present evidence to the Board for Mr. Fehr’s appeal in 2002, it was discovered that a clerical error had been made on the building characteristics which would reduce the value from $191,455 to $177,979. Mr. Fehr has agreed to this value and has requested a refund for 1999, 2000 and 2001for overpayment of taxes. The refund will be $84.98 for 1999; $90.00 for 2000; and $101.71 for 2001. Approval of Two Board of Education Capital Outlay Budget Amendments The Commissioners approved two Board of Education Budget Amendments: (1) to carry over unexpended County Capital Outlay funds from FY 2001-2002 to FY 2002-2003; and (2) reduce the carryover budget amendment for amounts accrued back to 2001and 2002. No additional County funds are required. Presentation of Final Summary of State Budget Changes to the Board of Education FY 2002-2003 Budget The Board of Education presented copies of budget amendment adjustments to the FY 2002-2003 Budget to comply with the final State Budget. These adjustments had to be made because the Board of Education adopted the FY 2002-2003 budget prior to the State adopting its final budget. Approval of Budget Amendment #2003-18 - Sheriff-Controlled Substance Tax The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment: Budget Amendment #2003 - Sheriff - Controlled Substance Tax Adjustment DebitCredit Controlled Substance Tax Funds$9,859 Extended Project Expense$9,859 Explanation: To increase the budget for additional revenue received 10-03-02, 10-24-02 and 11-12-02. Controlled Substance Tax funds are budgeted as received and must be used for law enforcement activities as deemed necessary by the Sheriff.. Approval of Budget Amendment #2003-19 - Sheriff - Federal Forfeited Property The Commissioners approved the following budget amendment: Budget Amendment #2003-19 - Sheriff - Federal Forfeited Property AdjustmentDebit Credit Federal Forfeited Property$9,578 Extended Project Expense$9,578 Explanation: To increase the budget for additional revenue received 10-24-02 and 10-29-02. Federal Forfeited Property funds are budgeted as received and must be used for law enforcement activities as deemed necessary by the Sheriff. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERSBOOK 29 REGULAR MEETING, NOVEMBER 25, 2002PAGE 395 Approval of Budget Amendment #03-0072-Museum/Science Grant The Commissioners approved the following budget amendment: Budget Amendment #03-0072 - Museum - Science Grant AdjustmentDebit Credit Grassroots Science Grant$180,653 Administrative Reserve$180,653 Explanation: To increase the budget for Grassroots Science Grant allocation funds for FY 2002-2003. Funds will be used for future museum expenditures. PRESENTATION OF NEW HANOVER COUNTY SERVICE AWARDS: County Manager O’Neal requested the following employees to step forward to receive service awards: NameYears of Service Bruce A. Walker, IT Department 5 David E. Rice, Health Department 5 Marlene M. Carney, Human Resources 15 Sharon F. Walters, Library15 Douglas A. Garrett, Inspections Department20 On behalf of the Board, Chairman Davis presented service awards to each employee and expressed appreciation to them for their years of dedicated service to New Hanover County. RECOGNITION OF NEW EMPLOYEES: County Manager O’Neal requested the following new employees to stand and be recognized: Rodney Eason, Airlie Gardens Kevin Fitzgerald, Fire Services Abigail Everett, Health Department Larry Grimsley, Health Department Geoffrey Zuckerman, Health Department Maria Turnley, Health Department Leslie Saxon, Property Management Jeffrey Mintz, Department of Social Services Melissa Montroy, Department of Social Services John Tewell, Jr., Department of Social Services Albert Horn, Department of Social Services Linda Thomas, Department of Social Services Carol Asher, Department of Social Services Ursula Wilson, Transportation, Department of Aging On behalf of the Board, Chairman Davis welcomed these new employees to New Hanover County government and wished them success in their new positions. CONSIDERATION OF ESTABLISHMENT OF ELECTRONIC MONITORING FOR PRETRIAL INMATES Deputy County Manager Andrew J. Atkinson reported that in order to provide an additional option for judges when dealing with an accused person, Staff is recommending the establishment of an electronic monitoring system. Inmates in the County Jail will be reviewed by two pretrial screeners to determine if they meet the criteria for release under this program. Once an inmate meets the requirements, a recommendation will be made to the judge responsible for the case. If the judge is in agreement, the accused person will be placed on electronic monitoring until the time of their court appearance. Implementation of this program should dramatically cut the number of inmates being placed in out-of-county facilities. The cost for electronic monitoring is between $13 to $14 per day per inmate compared to $45 per day per inmate (not including transportation costs) in out-of-county facilities. The cost of the electronic monitoring program for this fiscal year is $122,137. This program can be funded from the administrative reserve money budgeted for costs associated with the new Jail. When the new Jail opens, this will be an additional tool to keep the number of persons incarcerated to a minimum. In the future, this program will delay the opening another housing pod, which will save money for the County. The Senior Resident Superior Court Judge, Chief District Court Judge, District Attorney and Sheriff are supportive of the program. Deputy County Manager Atkinson concluded the presentation by requesting the Board to establish an electronic monitoring program in New Hanover County. Chairman Davis asked if any member of the Board would like to comment. Commissioner Pritchett commented on listening to the radio and stated that a person asked why the County waited so long to implement a program of this type. She requested Deputy County Manager Atkinson to respond to this question. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERSBOOK 29 REGULAR MEETING, NOVEMBER 25, 2002PAGE 396 Deputy County Manager Atkinson responded that the State has been using the program; however, when Staff reviewed the program a year ago, it was not felt that the technology being used had a proven record. A great deal of progress has been made with Globing Position System (GPS) to track and locate people. Staff is now comfortable with the technology and has been able to observe the success of the program in Wake County for the past two years. Ms. Dottie Thomas, a Pretrial Screener, responded that at least 50 inmates will be released from Jail once the program is implemented. The preliminary targeting shows a higher number can be released, but the judges want to determine the success of the program before releasing more than 50 inmates. After a review of incarcerated inmates, the jail population should be significantly reduced once the program is fully implemented. Vice-Chairman Greer requested an explanation of how the County will pay Reliant Monitoring Services to operate the program. Deputy County Manager Atkinson responded that New Hanover County will enter into a contract with Reliant Monitoring Services to monitor 50 inmates, and the County will be billed for services provided on a monthly basis. Vice-Chairman Greer requested an explanation of how the violations will be handled through the Pretrial Office. Ms. Thomas explained the Pretrial Office will closely observe the monitoring reports. If a violation should occur, that inmate will immediately appear before a judge for further sentencing. This procedure expedites the process much more quickly than the old method of issuing and serving a warrant before the inmate can be carried to court. After hearing no further comments, Chairman Davis called for motion. Motion: Commissioner Boseman MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Caster, to approve establishment of an electronic monitoring system for pretrial detainees and authorize the County Manager to sign a contract with Reliant Monitoring Services to implement a full service program for one year. Upon vote, THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. A copy of the contract is on file in the Legal Department. PRESENTATION ON 2002 ACTIVITY AT THE COAST LINE CONVENTION CENTER Mr. Neel Patrick, President of the Coast Line Convention Center, reported to date, the Coast Line Convention Center has a 73 percent occupancy with some overflow picked up from the Hilton and other special events looking for space. Of the 300 events held in the Convention Center during the year, approximately 5,000 visitors came to Wilmington and spent $1,200,000 in the area. Mr. Patrick concluded the presentation by saying that the Coast Line Convention Center is already booked for events next year and will end the current year with $75,000 in retained earnings. Commissioner Caster congratulated the Board of Directors for the increase in business and stated that it was good to hear a positive report on earnings of the Coast Line Convention Center. On behalf of the Board, Chairman Davis expressed appreciation to Mr. Patrick for the positive report and success of the Center during the past year. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF E-PAYMENT PROJECT IT Director Bill Clontz reported that the proposed E-Payment project for New Hanover County would offer citizens an opportunity to pay for County services by using a credit card via the Internet. The Board of County Commissioners established this project in the Programmatic Goals that were part of the guidelines for the FY 2002-2003 budget. The IT Department has been interested in this project for some time but was hesitant because the technology was not fully developed. The State has now developed the technology to be used by cities and counties. This system has been in operation for two years, and the County is now comfortable with using the technology. The project will allow citizens to use their personal computer or telephone to make payments. Costs involved with implementing the program are in the current budget, and Staff is ready to move forward with the program. Benefits from the program will be citizen convenience, reduced County resources, a progressive image for the County, and improved collection rates. In concluding the presentation, Director Clontz requested the Board to authorize Staff to proceed with the program and establish a Project Team to oversee the development of the project, which will not be implemented until the end of the next fiscal year. Chairman Davis asked who would be appointed to serve on the Project Team. Director Clontz advised that he or a designee would serve as Chairman of the Project Team and representatives from the primary user departments selected by the County Manager, such as the Tax Department, Finance Department, Library, etc. Commissioner Boseman asked if the fees associated with using credit cards would be charged to the user. Director Clontz responded that some counties have added the credit card fee as a convenience; however, a majority of counties have chosen not to add the credit card fee and consider it an offset to costs involved with the billing and collection process. The Project Team will review the fees and rates with a recommendation presented to the Board of County Commissioners for final approval. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERSBOOK 29 REGULAR MEETING, NOVEMBER 25, 2002PAGE 397 Commissioner Boseman asked if the proposed system will allow property owners to pay one-twelfth of their taxes each month. Deputy County Manager Atkinson responded that property taxes will still be due and payable on the current schedule pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes. He explained that a separate system is already in place for people to pay their property taxes on line and stated that the proposed E-Payment system will not impact the existing property tax system. Commissioner Boseman asked if checks or automatic drafts would be part of the system. Director Clontz responded that the system will be able to handle credit cards, debit cards and automatic drafts from checking accounts. Discussion was held on the current fee charged for use of a credit card. Director Clontz responded that credit card fees range from 2 to 3 percent; however, counties using the program and charging the fee have not received complaints because of customer convenience. Chairman Davis spoke on current budget constraints and stated that he would be inclined to charge the fee to the user so the County will receive full payment for services rendered. Further discussion followed on the importance of the system being secure. Vice-Chairman Greer commented on some counties hiring security officers and asked if the IT Department has considered a position of this type. Director Clontz responded that the County does not have an official Security Officer; however, one member of the IT Staff currently devotes her time to security issues. A great deal of time is spent daily fighting hackers and viruses. After hearing no further comments, Chairman Davis requested direction from the Board. Consensus: It was the consensus of the Board to approve the concept of the E-Payment Project and authorize the formation of the Project Team with final approval of the program by the Board of County Commissioners at a later date. APPROVAL OF BUDGET AMENDMENT #03-0066 TO AMEND THE FY 2002-2003 NEW HANOVER COUNTY BUDGET DUE TO LOCAL GOVERNMENT REIMBURSEMENTS NOT BEING INCLUDED IN THE FY 2002-2003 STATE BUDGET Budget Director Cam Griffin advised that the FY 2002-2003 Budget included $4.5 million in State reimbursements as a revenue source. It was pointed out in the budget message that if the State budget did not include reimbursements to cities and counties as promised, changes would have to be made in the budget to make up for the $4.5 million shortfall. Since reimbursements were not included in the State budget, the Board can consider the following options to replace the revenue shortfall: (1) budget the fund balance in Fund 125 to fund the debt service for the schools; (2) enact the local option one-half percent sales tax; (3) reduce or eliminate non-mandated services; or (4) a combination of the first three options. A budget amendment has been prepared to use Fund 125, which will not impact the amount of funding budgeted for the schools. Discussion followed on the composition of Fund 125. Budget Director Griffin explained that Fund 125 is an account where funds are placed when revenues exceed expenditures for the schools. This is a one time revenue source that can be spent to pay school debt service or other expenditures. Commissioner Boseman asked, if there will be any money left in the account if $4.5 million is removed from Fund 125. Budget Director Griffin responded that the balance will be approximately $2 million. Chairman Davis noted that during the budget process, discussion was held on implementing a one-half cent sales tax to make up the $4.5 million that was not received from the State. The estimated revenue generated from the additional sales tax is $6 million. If the one-half cent sales tax is implemented, the revenue collected could replace State reimbursements and leave $1.5 million that could be placed in Fund 125. Vice-Chairman Greer reminded the Board that New Hanover County is currently in pending litigation to recover the $4.5 million withheld by the State. He stated that hopefully the lawsuit will be successful and money will be received by New Hanover County. Commissioner Boseman stated that she would not vote to increase the property tax for FY 2003-2004 and she requested the County Manager to be prepared to make budget cuts. Hearing no further comments, Chairman Davis requested direction from the Board. Motion: Commissioner Pritchett MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Greer, to approve budget amendment #03- 0066 to remove $4.5 million from Fund 125 to replace reimbursements that were not received from the State. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED 4 TO 1. Commissioner Boseman voted in opposition. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERSBOOK 29 REGULAR MEETING, NOVEMBER 25, 2002PAGE 398 Budget Amendment #: 03-0066- New Hanover County Schools/Finance/Tax Adjustment Debit Credit New Hanover County Schools: Transfers In/General Fund $4,475,970 Appropriated Fund Balance $4,475,970 Finance: Intangible Tax $2,268,436 Food Stamp Sales Tax Reimbursement $ 93,240 Tax: Senior Citizens Exemption $ 117,343 Inventory Tax Reimbursement $1,996,951 Education: Transfer To Public Schools Fund $4,475,970 Explanation: To budget fund balance in Fund 125 for the County contribution to the Schools. This will not impact the County’s contribution to the Schools, but change the revenue source from the General Fund to Fund 125-Fund Balance. COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS Appointments to the Zoning Board of Adjustment Chairman Davis announced that four vacancies, two regular positions and two alternate positions, needed to be filled on the Zoning Board of Adjustment Chairman Davis opened the floor to receive nominations to fill the two regular positions. Commissioner Boseman nominated Michael V. Lee. The nomination was seconded by Commissioner Caster. Commissioner Caster nominated Horace Malpass. The nomination was seconded by Commissioner Boseman. There being no further nominations, Chairman Davis declared the nominations closed and called for a vote. Vote: The Board voted unanimously to appoint Mr. Michael V. Lee and Mr. Horace Malpass to serve on the Zoning Board of Adjustment with the terms to expire December 1, 2005. Chairman Davis opened the floor to receive nominations to fill three vacant alternate positions. Commissioner Boseman nominated Michael S. Jones. The nomination was seconded by Vice-Chairman Greer. Commissioner Pritchett nominated Carmen Vincent Gintoli. The nomination was seconded by Vice-Chairman Greer. Hearing no further nominations, Chairman Davis declared the nominations closed and called for a vote on the appointment of Michael S. Jones. Vote: The Board voted unanimously to appoint Michael S. Jones to serve as an alternate on the Zoning Board of Adjustment with the term to expire December 1, 2005. Chairman Davis called for a vote on the appointment of Carmen Vincent Gintoli. Vote: The Board voted 4 to 1 to appoint Carmen Vincent Gintoli to serve as an alternate on the Zoning Board of Adjustment with the term to expire December 1, 2005. Commissioner Caster voted in opposition. ADDITIONAL ITEMS Success of the Nuclear Drill Exercise Commissioner Pritchett advised that on Tuesday, November 19, 2002, an exercise drill was held in the New Hanover County Emergency Operations Center with representatives from the Brunswick Nuclear Power Plant and other agencies to learn how to respond if a leak should occur at the Nuclear Plant. The exercise was informative and everyone involved should be commended for performing an excellent job. FEMA representatives grading the exercise were very complimentary of the New Hanover County Emergency Management Department and the procedures in place to manage an incident of this type. The only concern expressed was about the small size of the Emergency Operations Center. Success of the First College Day Sponsored by the University of North Carolina at Wilmington (UNCW) Commissioner Pritchett reported on attending the First College Day at UNCW held on Saturday, November 23, 2002 and stated that more than 300 residents attended the event and actually became students attending various classes. After commenting on attending an excellent course presented by Dr. Milan Dluhy on Improving the Quality of Life in Southeastern North Carolina and an informative course on chemical and bio-terrorism, Commissioner Pritchett stated that all participants truly enjoyed the day and hope that UNCW will hold this event next year. Recognition of Third Grade Class from Ogden Elementary School Vice-Chairman Greer recognized a third grade class from Ogden Elementary School and expressed appreciation NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERSBOOK 29 REGULAR MEETING, NOVEMBER 25, 2002PAGE 399 to them for attending the meeting. Report on Coastal Enterprises, Inc. Commissioner Caster reported on touring the Coastal Enterprises, Inc. facility (formerly known as KEYS) on Friday, November 22, 2002 and stated that the program is a community rehabilitation facility serving disabled citizens of Onslow County and neighboring counties. He stated that Coastal Enterprises, Inc. provides people to clean rest stops along I-40 and also contracts with the Marine Corps Base at Camp Lejeune and the Seymour Johnson Air Force Base to provide groundskeepers for these facilities. Since this program is different from the KEYS program, Staff may want to observe the program to see if a similar program should be implemented in New Hanover County. Report on Attending the North Carolina Shore and Beach Preservation Association Meeting Commissioner Caster reported on attending the North Carolina Shore and Beach Preservation Association meeting and stated that the Executive Director of the N. C. Travel & Tourism Board, Lynn D. Minges, informed the group that North Carolina is the sixth most visited state in the nation. Tourism is a big industry that brings in more than one billion dollars in tax revenues and over twelve billion dollars in generated domestic revenues. It was also reported that 25 percent of money spent on tourism in North Carolina is because of its beaches; therefore, it is imperative for coastal counties to keep the beaches in good shape. Report From Dyn Tek on the Child Enforcement Program Commissioner Caster referenced the report received from Dyn Tek on the Child Enforcement Program and requested Assistant County Manager, Patricia A. Melvin, to comment on the success of the program. Assistant County Manager Melvin informed the Commissioners that the Board of Social Services voted at its October meeting to continue the existing contract with Dyn Tek based upon the company successfully achieving the goals established by the Department of Services. The collections have increased, the number of cases has increased, and the number of dollars collected for Work First participants has increased. The Board of Social Services was quite pleased with the results as outlined in the annual report. The only concern mentioned was the phone system, which is now being improved. Discussion of Implementing a Senior Buddy Program Commissioner Boseman asked Assistant County Manager Melvin if she had discussed the Senior Buddy Program with Ms. Annette Crumpton, the Director of Aging. Assistant County Manager Melvin responded that Director Crumpton has already contacted the agency in Monterey, California, and once information is received on the operation and success of the program, the Commissioners will receive a copy of the data and a recommendation will be made by the Department of Aging. Commissioner Boseman requested Assistant County Manager Melvin to work with Ms. Crumpton in trying to find other programs that can be implemented to allow seniors to remain in their homes instead of being placed in nursing homes. ADDITIONAL ITEMS - COUNTY MANAGER Discussion of December 2, 2002, Meeting County Manager O’Neal advised that a draft agenda has been provided to the Commissioners for the December 2, 2002 meeting. He asked if the Board would like to hold the regular Staff Meeting on Wednesday, November 27, 2002, at 4:00 p.m. since this is the day before Thanksgiving. Consensus: It was the consensus of the Board to hold the Staff Meeting on Wednesday, November 27, 2002, at 4:00 p.m. as scheduled. PRESENTATION ON UNCW MASTER OF PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION PROGRAM Dr. Thomas Barth reported that the Master of Public Administration (MPA) was established for students interested in careers in public service and for working professionals. A comprehensive program is offered with courses in Public Management, Budgeting and Finance Administration, Ethics and Leadership in Public Life, and Human Resources Administration as well as specialized programs like Coastal Management. With UNCW being located in a coastal community, it is believed that the University can become a national center for the study of coastal management to address the unique challenges faced by coastal communities. The MPA program also offers technical expertise to the region through graduate student internships, class projects and faculty consulting. The students have an opportunity to work with agencies and have real learning experiences, which benefits both the students and agencies. Dr. Barth concluded his presentation by expressing appreciation to the Board for allowing him to comment on the MPA program and stated that he would he glad to answer questions. Discussion was held on the number of students enrolled in the program. Dr. Barth reported that 55 students are currently enrolled in the program with a mix of recent undergraduates and mid-career professionals. Given the size of the area, this a healthy number and will probably not significantly increase. On behalf of the Board, Chairman Davis expressed appreciation to Dr. Barth for the informative presentation. BREAK Chairman Davis called a break from 10:30 a.m. until 10:50 a.m. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERSBOOK 29 REGULAR MEETING, NOVEMBER 25, 2002PAGE 400 APPROVAL OF TIDAL CREEKS WATER QUALITY ENHANCEMENT PROJECT FUNDS TO CONDUCT A TIDAL EXCHANGE RATE STUDY Staff Planner Chris O’Keefe reported that the Tidal Creek Watershed Management Advisory Board is considering a request by the Friends of Hewletts Creek to help fund a dredging project at the mouth of the creek to increase the tidal exchange rate and possibly improve the water quality. This project was recommended to the Tidal Creeks Advisory Board to secure funding to conduct a Tidal Exchange Rate Study. These studies are fairly rudimentary and involve releasing dye at several sites in the creek and monitoring the movement of the dye over the course of 7 to 10 tides. Exchange rates are determined from the reduction of dye over time. Results of this study will indicate if the quality of the water in Hewletts Creek will improve with removal of shoals from the mouth of the creek that have formed over a period of time. The majority of Hewletts Creek has been closed to shell fishing for a number of years and the entire creek was closed in March 2002. The Tidal Creek Advisory Board voted to recommend using $6,160 from Tidal Creeks Water Quality Enhancement Project Fund to conduct the Tidal Exchange Rate Study. The study will be performed by the UNCW Center for Marine Science Research as part of its on-going work for New Hanover County. In concluding the presentation, Staff Planner O’Keefe read a letter from John Jefferies, Chairman of the Tidal Creek Advisory Board and requested the Board of County Commissioners to approve the expenditure. Chairman Davis stated, for the record, the funding is coming from the Tidal Creeks Water Quality Enhancement Project Fund which is part of the N. C. Clean Water Management Trust Fund. Ms. Barbara Ward, speaking on behalf of the Friends of Hewletts Creek, assured the Board of the commitment made by this group to improve water quality in Hewletts Creek and she urged the Commissioners to move forward with the study. Chairman Davis asked if any member of the Board would like to comment. After hearing no comments, Chairman Davis requested a motion. Motion: Commissioner Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Pritchett, to authorize the expenditure of $6,160 from the Tidal Creeks Water Quality Enhancement Project Fund to conduct a Tidal Exchange Rate Study for Hewletts Creek. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. MEETING CONVENED FROM REGULAR SESSION TO HOLD A REGULAR MEETING OF THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY WATER AND SEWER DISTRICT Chairman Davis convened from Regular Session at 11:30 a.m. to hold a Regular Meeting of the Water and Sewer District. Chairman Davis reconvened to Regular Session at 12:15 p.m. NON-AGENDA ITEMS Chairman Davis announced that time had been reserved to allow the public to present an item that was not listed on the Regular Agenda. He requested all persons speaking to limit their remarks to three minutes. . No items were presented MEETING CONVENED FROM REGULAR SESSION TO CLOSED SESSION Chairman Davis called for a motion to convene to Closed Session pursuant to N.C.G.S. 143-318.11(3) to discuss pending litigation. Motion: Commissioner Caster MOVED, SECONDED BY Commissioner Boseman, to convene to Closed Session for the purpose stated. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Chairman Davis convened from Regular Session to Closed Session at 12:20 p.m. Chairman Davis reconvened from Closed Session to Regular Session at 12:43 p.m. Chairman Davis announced that no official action was taken in Closed Session. ADJOURNMENT Hearing no further comment from members of the Board, Chairman Davis called for a motion to adjourn the meeting. Motion: Commissioner Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Pritchett, to adjourn. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Chairman Davis adjourned the meeting at 12:45 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Lucie F. Harrell Clerk to the Board