1999-05-17 Regular Meeting
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 1999 PAGE 256
ASSEMBLY
The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Monday, May
17, 1999, at 9:00 a. m. in the Golden Hawk Room of Trask Coliseum, University of North Carolina
at Wilmington, NC.
Members present were Commissioner Buzz Birzenieks; Commissioner Ted Davis, Jr;
Commissioner Charles R. Howell; Vice-Chairman Robert G. Greer; Chairman William A. Caster;
County Manager, Allen O’Neal; County Attorney, Wanda M. Copley; and Deputy Clerk to the
Board, Teresa P. Elmore.
Chairman Caster called the meeting to order and welcomed everyone present.
INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Reverend Timothy Flint, Pastor of Silver Lake Baptist Church, gave the invocation.
Commissioner Birzenieks led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
NON-AGENDA ITEMS
Chairman Caster announced that time had been reserved to allow the public to present an item
that was not listed on the regular agenda or comment on an item listed on the Consent Agenda. He
requested all persons speaking to limit their remarks to three minutes.
Chief District Court Judge John W. Smith, expressed appreciation to the Board for providing
the new office facility for Juvenile Justice. He spoke of the over crowding problems during the past
year and the State’s mandate for the courts to handle more cases in less time. He thanked the
Commissioners for their trust and support in the judges who deal with the children of the community.
He also expressed appreciation for the new judicial building expansion project.
Chairman Caster announced that the Grand Opening of the new facility for the Office of
Juvenile Justice will be held on Thursday, May 27, 1999, at 12:00 Noon. He extended the invitation
to all those present to attend.
APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA:
Commissioner Birzenieks requested the removal of Consent Agenda Item 10 for further
discussion.
Commissioner Davis requested the removal of Consent Agenda Item 3 to receive clarification
on the funding source.
Motion: Commissioner Birzenieks MOVED, SECONDED by Vice Chairman Greer, to remove
Consent Items 3 and 10 and to approve the remaining items on the Consent Agenda as presented.
Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
CONSENT AGENDA
Approval of Minutes
The Commissioners approved the minutes of the Special Meeting of March 15, 1999, as
presented by the Clerk to the Board.
Acceptance of North Carolina Urban and Community Forestry Grant Award for the
Cooperative Extension Service and Approval of Associated Budget Amendment #99-0157
The Commissioners accepted a grant award for the Cooperative Extension Service from the
N. C. Urban and Community Forestry Grant Award in the amount of $4,710. The grant funding will
be spent on conducting an educational tour of unique habitats of live oaks along the North Carolina
coast and barrier islands to promote community awareness of the durability of the live oaks in the
coastal environment. The following budget amendment was approved:
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 1999 PAGE 257
#99-0157 - Cooperative Extension Service
DebitCredit
Cooperative Extension Service
Urban Forestry Grant $4,710
Cooperative Extension Expense $4,710
Purpose:
To budget grant proceeds from the North Carolina Urban and Community
Forestry Grant
Acceptance of New Hanover County and New Hanover County Fire District Tax Collection
as of April 30, 1999
Reports
The Commissioners accepted the following Tax Collection Reports through April 30, 1999,
as submitted by the Collector of the Revenue:
New Hanover County Tax Collections
New Hanover County Fire District Tax Collections
Copies of the reports are hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and are contained in
Exhibit Book XXV, Page 12.
Approval of Office of Juvenile Justice Grant Application for Discretionary Funding for the
Intensive Home Visiting Initiative by the Women’s Health Care Division and Child Health
Division of the Health Department
The Commissioners approved the grant application for Intensive Home Visiting Initiative
for $100,000 through the Office of Juvenile Justice Application for Discretionary Funding. If
awarded, the grant will be used to hire two public health nurses in the Women’s Health Care
Division and Child Health Division for the Dr. David Old’s Nurse Home Visitation Program.
The program helps low-income, first-time parents prevent health and parenting problems that can
contribute to the early development of antisocial behavior. The Juvenile Crime Prevention
Council recommended approval of the grant application as required by the Office of Juvenile
Justice. No County match is required
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Approval of North Carolina Center for Nursing Recognition, Reward, and Renewal Grant
Application to Purchase Exercise Equipment for the Health Department
The Commissioners approved the grant application for the Recognition, Reward, and Renewal
Grant Program of the North Carolina Center for Nursing. Grants are awarded for the purpose of
improving retention of nursing staff and nursing support staff in health agencies. If awarded, the
$5,000 grant will be used to purchase exercise equipment, which will be available during non-work
times of lunch breaks, work breaks, and before and after work hours, at the Health Department. The
equipment is to promote health awareness, disease prevention, stress reduction, and improved morale
among staff.
Approval of the Governor’s Highway Safety Program for Safe Communities Mini-grant
Application for the Health Department
The Commissioners approved the grant application to the Governor’s Highway Safety
Program for Safe Communities for the Health Department. If awarded, the $10,000 grant will be
used by the New Hanover County Safe Community Coalition to implement educational and highway
improvement plans to reduce traffic related injuries and deaths in New Hanover County.
Acceptance of Grant Award to Emergency Management from NC Department of Crime
Control and Public Safety, Division of Emergency Management, and Approval of Associated
Budget Amendment #99-0158
The Commissioners accepted a grant award to Emergency Management from the N. C.
Department of Crime Control and Public Safety, Division of Emergency Management, in the amount
of $1,642.50 for the purchase of 150 copies of Terrorism Handbook for Operational Responders.
No County funds are required. The following budget amendment was approved:
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 1999 PAGE 258
#99-0158 - Emergency Management
DebitCredit
Emergency Management
North Carolina Department of Crime Control and$1,643
Public Safety - Division of Emergency Management
Departmental Supplies$1,643
Purpose:
To budget a grant award for the purchase of 150 copies of Terrorism Handbook
for Operational Responders
Appointment of Todd Hatley to the Child Fatality Prevention Team
The Commissioners appointed Todd Hatley, EMS Training Officer of New Hanover Regional
Medical Center, to the Child Fatality Prevention Team as the EMS representative.
Adoption of Resolutions Requesting NCDOT to Add Roads to the Highway System
The Commissioners adopted resolutions requesting NCDOT to add the following roads to
the State Highway System:
Roads in Heritage Woods Subdivision, Sections 2, 3, and 4
Roads in Grove Point Plantation and Laurel Ridge Subdivisions
Murrayville Station Business Park
Copies of the resolutions are hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and are contained
in Exhibit Book XXV, Page 12.
Approval of Budget Amendment #99-0154 Social Services/Child Day Care Services
The Commissioners approved the following budget amendment:
#99-0154 - Social Services/Child Day Care Services
DebitCredit
Social Services
Child Day Care Services$47,270
Head Start Wrap Around $47,270
Purpose:
To budget additional State funding received for child day care; no additional
County funds are required
Approval of Budget Amendment #99-0155 to Adjust Salary Budgets for the Remainder of
FY1998-99 for Various Departments
The Commissioners approved the following budget amendment:
#99-0155 - Various Departments
DebitCredit
Finance:
Salaries and Wages$10,000
Engineering:
Salaries and Wages$25,000
Inspections:
Salaries and Wages$130,000
Planning:
Salaries and Wages$20,000
Cooperative Extension:
Salaries and Wages$45,000
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 1999 PAGE 259
Health/Animal Control:
Salaries and Wages$10,000
DSS/Administration:
Salaries and Wages$130,000
Library:
Salaries and Wages$20,000
Airlie Gardens:
Salaries and Wages$23,000
Sheriff/Administration:
Salaries and Wages$236,000
Sheriff 911 Center:
Salaries and Wages$20,000
Sheriff/Jail:
Salaries and Wages$157,000
Purpose:
To adjust salary budgets for the remainder of FY98-99
Consideration of Lease Agreements Between New Hanover Regional Medical Center and the
Coastal Carolinas Health Alliance and the East Carolina Emergency Physicians
Commissioner Birzenieks reported that the Board of Trustees had not reviewed the proposed
leases and he recommended approval of the leases to be contingent upon the Trustees’ approval. He
requested that these types of items have the Board of Trustees’ approval prior to the Commissioners’
consideration.
Motion:
Commissioner Birzenieks MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Davis, to approve the
lease agreements with Coastal Carolina Health Alliance for property vacated by the Cape Fear
Foundation and approval of the lease agreement with Eastern Carolina Emergency Physicians, PA
for the medical office space at 5220 Oleander Drive, contingent upon approval by the New Hanover
Regional Medical Center Board of Trustees. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
Consideration of Two Deputy Sheriff Positions to Provide Security for Staff and Clients at DSS
and Approval of Associated Budget Amendment #99-0150
Commissioner Davis asked if the State will continue to provide half of the funding for the
positions after the current fiscal year. County Manager responded that State funding will continue.
The annual cost of the positions is $35,392.
Assistant County Manager Patricia Melvin reported on contacting the security department of
New Hanover Regional Medical Center to determine if the special law enforcement officers at the
Medical Center could provide security at the Department of Social Services. Chief Creech informed
her that the law enforcement officers did not have authority to provide security at any facility unless
it was hospital property.
MOTION:
Vice Chairman Greer MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Birzenieks, to establish
two deputy sheriff positions at DSS and to approve the associated budget amendment. Upon vote,
the MOTION CARRIED BY 4 TO 1 VOTE AS FOLLOWS:
Voting Aye:Commissioner Birzenieks
Commissioner Davis
Commissioner Howell
Vice Chairman Greer
Voting Nay:Chairman Caster
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 1999 PAGE 260
Chairman Caster voted in opposition because he felt that an outside security force should be
contracted to provide the security service.
Budget Amendment #99-0150 - Sheriff/Administration and DSS/Administration
DebitCredit
Sheriff/Administration:
DSS/Transfer - Sheriff $5,444
Salaries and Wages$5,444
DSS/Administration:
DSS Administrative Grants$2,722
Salaries and Wages$2,722
Contracted Services$5,444
Purpose:
To budget the cost of two Sheriff’s Deputies providing security at the Department
of Social Services for the remainder of this fiscal year. Reimbursements from the
State/Administrative grants will provide up to 50% of the cost. The county’s cost of $2,722
will be provided by a deduction in the DSS salary account.
PRESENTATION OF NEW HANOVER COUNTY SERVICE AWARDS
County Manager O’Neal requested the following employees to step forward to receive their
service awards:
Employees Years of Service
Nikki J. Todd, Health Department5 Years
Betty C. Bamforth, Social Services5 Years
Cheryl E. Humphrey, Social Services5 Years
Cindy W. Reed, Social Services5 Years
Mark J. Francolini, Human Resources10 Years
Anna V. Franzitta, Tax Department10 Years
Sharon H. Terrell, Tax Department10 Years
Celeste E. Chadwick, Social Services10 Years
Sheila S. Merritt, Social Services10 Years
Jane Elizabeth Topping, Social Services10 Years
Jeffrey H. Tripp, Sheriff Department20 Years
Grace J. Russ, Cape Fear Museum20 Years
JoAnn Swart, Social Services25 Years
Chairman Caster, on behalf of the Board, presented the service awards to the employees and
expressed appreciation to them for their years of service.
RECOGNITION OF NEW COUNTY EMPLOYEES
County Manager O’Neal requested the following new employees to stand and be recognized:
Beth Wooten, Department of Aging
Jennifer Grainger, Health Department
Scott Compton, Health Department
Andrea Carson, Health Department
JoAnn Bauman, Health Department
Kris Creger, Health Department
Sharon Campbell, Health Department
Susann Thompson, Information Technology Department
Debra Wilson, Inspections Department
Forrest Van Keuren, Inspections Department
Don Reaves, Property Management Department
Robert Nixon, Property Management Department
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 1999 PAGE 261
Johanna Leigh, Social Services Department
Sandra Garrett, Social Services Department
Maria Garay, Social Services Department
Karen Durso, Tax Department
Gloria Umstetter, Health Department
Elizabeth Constandy, Health Department
Chairman Caster, on behalf of the Board of County Commissioners, welcomed the new
employees to county government and wished them well in their new positions.
PRESENTATION OF THE COUNTY MANAGER’S FISCAL YEAR 1999-2000
RECOMMENDED BUDGET
County Manager O’Neal reported he was pleased to present the recommended budget for
fiscal year 1999-2000 with a proposed tax rate of 55.5 cents, a decrease of 11 cents on the current
tax rate. The revaluation of property has brought the ad valorem tax base up to current market
conditions, allowing for a decrease in the tax rate. He stated the revaluation will have different
impacts on citizens’ tax payments depending on the changes in value of their individual property or
properties.
The following key items were presented:
Expenditures Related to Growth in Population and Services:
This budget will fund the increased
services demanded by the growing county and its citizens.
Funds are recommended for further development of Airlie Gardens, which was purchased during the
current year to preserve an irreplaceable treasure for the citizens of the County for years to come.
The increased debt service funding is included for additional schools and expansion of Cape Fear
Community College. This debt service increase results from bonds passed by the voters of New
Hanover County.
Funds are recommended to complete the Ogden and Castle Hayne Parks and to begin work on the
Veterans Park. Additional groundskeeper positions are recommended to maintain and improve the
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Countys growing park system.
Initial debt service funding is recommended for a new Administration Building and the expansion of
the Judicial Building. Improvements in both buildings are needed to better serve the citizens.
Funds are recommended to provide full staffing at the new Northeast Branch Library including a
housekeeper to maintain the facility. Additional funding is recommended for books in the library
system.
GENERAL FUND
Public Schools:
The County transfer and percentage of General Fund allocation to the Schools have
increased in recent years. An amount of $49,309,866 is recommended as the transfer for the Schools,
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representing an increase over the current year of $6,071,532, or 14 percent. The Schools current
operating request far exceeds the available funding. The preliminary request is for an additional
$23,582,820 over the current budgeted amount. This is an increase of $11,289,133, or 33 percent,
in current operating and $12,293,687, or 459 percent, in current expense capital outlay. This request,
with the increased funding required for debt service, would require a General Fund transfer of
$69,158,813 - an increase of $25,920,479, or 60 percent.
The recommended amount will fund a 10 percent increase for both current operating and current
expense capital outlay and the $2.4 million increase in debt service on bonds passed by the voters.
Cape Fear Community College (CFCC):
Funding of $2,924,534 (an increase of $338,810, or 13
percent) is recommended for Cape Fear Community College. The funding will be used for utilities
and contractual services to fully utilize the Health Science/Learning Resource Center Building, the
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 1999 PAGE 262
Schwartz Center, and the Science Building, and address deferred maintenance needs of existing
college buildings.
It should be noted that debt service in the General Fund will increase $1.7 million for the CFCC bonds
passed by the voters.
Airlie Gardens:
A penny on the recommended tax rate is directly related to the cost of operations
and further development of Airlie Gardens.
Personnel Issues:
Of the 48 new positions requested, 32 are currently recommended, 29 in the
General Fund. Five of these in the General Fund are completely funded by revenue they will generate
or from grant sources. An explanation of the recommended positions follows:
Emergency Management (1):
An Emergency Management Specialist position will assist
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in the federal mandate of community emergency response planning under OSHA and
Superfund title requirements.
Health (5):
Two Animal Control Officers and a Clerical Specialist will improve the manner
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in which animal control services are provided to the public. An additional School Nurse is
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recommended at the Schools request to meet the health needs of regular and disabled
students. The Schools will fund the position. A part-time, grant-funded Social Worker II
position is recommended to assist with the Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF)
Program. A General Services Worker in the Health Department is being eliminated.
Inspections (2):
A Zoning Enforcement Officer and Clerical Specialist are recommended
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to allow the Department to keep pace with the population growth and development with the
aim of providing more effective enforcement of land use regulations. These positions will be
funded by Inspection fees and will assist with the efficient operation of the Department.
Legal (1):
An existing temporary/full-time Paralegal is recommended to become regular in
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the Collections section of Legal to collect monies due the County and to represent the
County in Small Claims Court. The County Attorney has advised that since the Paralegal
works under her supervision and law license, the position needs to be regular for liability
purposes.
Library (2):
Two Library Associates are recommended for a partial year to assist with the
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staffing of the new Northeast Library. These positions will supplement the current staff at the
Plaza East Library and the three positions available for the new Northeast Library in the
current year. This will allow the Northeast Library, when it opens, to be open the same hours
and provide the same services as the Myrtle Grove Library.
Museum (2):
Two temporary/full-time Assistant Registrar positions are recommended to
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become regular positions.
Parks (5):
Five Grounds keepers are recommended for maintenance and improvement of
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the County parks.
Planning (1):
A GIS/Addressing Specialist is recommended to better support those who
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develop property and live in the community. All users (Planning, Inspections, E-911, ROD,
Land Records and IT) will rely on one source of address information. This position is
especially critical for the E-9ll system to perform effectively. This position will maintain the
data base to provide timely, accurate address information to the citizens and development
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community that rely on these departments. One-half of the positions cost will be funded by
Inspection fees.
Property Management (3):
One Maintenance Mechanic and one Electrician for light
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construction and painting are needed to ensure the continued maintenance of County
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 1999 PAGE 263
buildings. An additional Housekeeper is added for a partial year to maintain the new
Northeast Library.
Sheriff (4):
Four Deputy Sheriff positions are recommended to provide increased security
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at DSS, the main Library, and Juvenile Justice Center. Three positions (grant-funded by the
Domestic Violence and Gang Task Force grants) are being eliminated as the grants are
ending.
Social Services (2):
Two Clerical Specialist positions are being recommended to assist with
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the departments medical transportation and day care programs. The cost of the positions will
be partially reimbursed.
Tax (1):
An additional Appraiser position is recommended for commercial/industrial
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properties in the County. The position will be funded through the increased tax revenues that
it generates.
A 3 percent market adjustment for deserving employees is included. The County eliminated across-
the-board increases six years ago. The pay plan adjustment is entirely performance based.
A pay and classification study funded in the current year is scheduled to be implemented in FY2000-
2001.
An amount of $306,020 is recommended to fund a $10 per pay period contribution to a 401(k)
account for employees who are not sworn law enforcement officers. Law enforcement officers
currently receive a 5 percent state-mandated contribution to a 401(k) account.
An amount of $374,633 is included for the County to fund the total increased cost of the health
insurance plan. County employees will not have an increase in their cost for health or dental
insurance.
Also included is the amount of $30,000 to continue the County-wide training, developed and
operated by the Human Resources Department. This training has proven very effective.
OTHER
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Department of Social Services:
Social Services recommended budget is based on New Hanover
County being designated as a Work First standard county. It assumes that SDA/Corrvantis will
operate the Child Support Program with no guarantee of a $175,000 revenue/profit to the County.
If the Board of County Commissioners decides to change the SDA/Corrvantis contract or designate
another entity to administer Child Support, additional County dollars will be required. The increase
in County dollars for Social Services is 0.5 percent, the smallest increase in memory, due to Work
First and a healthy economy.
Register of Deeds:
Funding of $181,936 is recommended to begin the automation process for the
Register of Deeds Office. This amount reflects the first-year installment payment. The total project
is estimated to cost $1 million.
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Sheriffs Department:
Funding is recommended to implement the Take Home Cruiser Program
(previously approved by the Board of County Commissioners). An amount of $35,665 for the first
payment is included to fund 23 vehicles that will be financed over three years. In addition, seven
vehicles will be purchased with grant funds.
Southeastern Center:
An increase of $231,000 is recommended for Southeastern Mental Health
Center to fund an Assertive Community Treatment team (ACT). This is an interdisciplinary team of
mental health professionals working with a small group of clients who are major users of mental
health services, but do not respond well to conventional treatment.
Outside Agencies:
There are some minor shifts in funding for outside agencies. In the Human
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 1999 PAGE 264
Services area, there is a slight increase in total funding for agencies. The Human Services Allocation
Advisory Committee makes recommendations on the Human Services funding.
REVENUES:
The revaluation of property has brought the ad valorem tax base up to current market
conditions accurately reflecting changes in valuations that have taken place over the past eight years.
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The revaluation will have differing impacts on citizens tax payments depending on the changes in the
value of their individual property.
The current ad valorem tax base is estimated to be $15.5 billion. Based on this estimate, a penny will
be worth $1,519,000.
The sales tax revenue from the one cent sales tax (Article 39) is estimated to increase $1.2 million,
or 6.6 percent, above the current budgeted amount. While the sales tax revenue is increasing, the
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growth is not as great as it would have been without the City of Wilmingtons recent involuntary
annexation. Without the change in the sales tax formula caused by annexation, the revenue would
have grown an additional $500,000. The impact of annexation will be felt even more in FY2000-
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2001 since the citys portion for three quarters (to the detriment of the County, schools, and beach
communities) will be based on city ad valorem collections for 17 months due to the mid-year
annexation during FY98-99.
The sales tax revenues from the two one-half cent sales taxes are estimated to increase $400,000, or
3.5 percent. The sales tax revenue, of which a portion is designated for the Schools, is also impacted
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by the citys annexation plan.
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No fund balance is appropriated in the recommended budget. The Countys strong fund balance is
important to continuing a program of financial strength.
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT FUND:
A transfer of $1.4 million from the General Fund
is projected to balance the Environmental Management Fund. Fund balance from the Environmental
Management Fund in the amount of $1.7 million is also appropriated.
Staff and a group of citizens who are knowledgeable in this field continue to review ways to provide
waste disposal services to the citizens in the most efficient and equitable manner.
The recommended tipping fee is $28 per ton, a decrease from the current fee of $34. The reduction
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is recommended to retain the refuse in the County and should reduce the citizens trash collection
bills.
Two temporary positions, a Recycling Operator and Executive Director of Keep America Beautiful,
are recommended to become regular positions. The Executive Director will be a regular, half-time
position.
FIRE SERVICE DISTRICT:
An anticipated 1 cent tax increase is recommended for the Fire
Service District. The increase is necessary to replace fund balance that was budgeted in the past and
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expended to improve the protection of life and property from fire. The decrease in the Districts ad
valorem tax base (because of annexation) is offset by the increase in the tax base due to revaluation.
An additional position is recommended to assist with the administration and training of field personnel
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in the District. The impact of the citys annexation plan on the volunteer departments will continue
to be reviewed. The Board will be kept abreast of changes in these services.
WATER AND SEWER DISTRICT:
The District currently provides service to approximately
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24,000 water and sewer customers (residential and commercial). The Districts current operation and
future expansion are funded by user fees and a $5.4 million transfer from the General Fund.
The monthly sewer fees are currently being reviewed, and a revised fee schedule will be presented
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for the Boards review and consideration.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 1999 PAGE 265
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM:
Funding for a number of capital projects is
recommended as follows:
•Completion of Ogden Park - $740,000
•Completion of Castle Hayne Park - $160,000
•Architectural Fees for Jail Expansion - $450,000
•Initial Stages of Park Development at Veterans Park - $650,000
UNKNOWNS:
Drainage requirements will be addressed pending receipt of study results.
•Discussions are currently taking place with the Schools on the best way to plan for and meet
the future needs of students at an acceptable tax rate.
•Contract negotiations continue with SDA/Corrvantis on the most efficient way to provide
child support services. The method chosen may impact the budget.
•The Legislature is still in session and formulating a State budget. Any shifts made in
revenues, responsibility and/or matching requirements for grants, or human services programs
may impact the budget.
•Future annexations by the City of Wilmington as well as the success of the consolidation
study resolutions may impact future budgets.
•Juvenile Justice Reform that was enacted during the last session of the Legislature is still
being implemented. The possible impact on the budget is unknown at this time.
While the recommended budget does not fund all the requests that have been received (particularly
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the Schools request), the document balances the needs of our growing County with the necessity to
levy the most responsible tax rate possible.
At the request of Commissioner Birzenieks, a graph of expenditures by object was shown; and
it was pointed out that the County spends more on Education than on County employees’ salaries.
In conclusion, County Manager O’Neal stated that the Public Hearing for the budget will be
held on June 7, 1999. As in the past, the School System, DSS, Health Department, Sheriff’s
Department, Southeastern Center, and CFCC will make budget presentations to the Board at that
time. Some of the outside agencies may ask for more funding than what is recommended. He
requested the Board to schedule another Budget Work Session before meeting on June 7, 1999.
Chairman Caster commented that the Board may need to hear public comments before
conducting another work session and suggested to schedule the work session on June 8, 1999, at 5:00
p.m.
Consensus:
The Commissioners agreed to hold a Public Hearing on June 7, 1999, and to schedule
a Budget Work Session on Tuesday, June 8, 1999, at 5:00 p.m., in Room 501 of the County
Administration Building. The Budget is scheduled for adoption on June 21, 1999.
Commissioner Birzenieks commented on Judge Smith’s remarks on the State’s mandating
policies on the county level, but providing very little funding for the county. He commended Senator
Ballantine’s efforts in SB440 to send some of the State’s tax revenue back to the local governments.
Regrettably, it does not appear the General Assembly will provide any relief to counties in the near
future.
PRESENTATION ON THE STATUS OF THE JUDICIAL BUILDING EXPANSION
PROJECT
Bruce Bowman, architect with BMS, reported that the Judicial Building Expansion project
is in the early stage of design development. The statistical study showed that New Hanover County
Judicial System is very efficient in the number of cases heard in the courts. By using the space study
and schematic proposal, plans for future growth in the departments can be developed. However, it
is difficult to predict the number of courtrooms or judges that will be needed in 10 years or more
because of unknown impacts from legislation and the number of law enforcement officers.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 1999 PAGE 266
He presented a site plan that showed the location of the new building expansion next to the
Historic Courthouse with a courtyard space between the two structures. A connection between the
existing building and the new building will allow staff access to secure quarters in the existing
structure. The new building will be approximately the same height, scale and historic context as the
existing building.
Mr. Bowman recommended to adjust the project scope to include an additional district
courtroom in the proposed 36,000 square foot space. In a meeting with Judge Smith and others in
the court system, some internal security problems were pointed out in getting the judges from their
quarters to the new courtrooms without having contact with the public. A meeting with the district
attorney revealed that the arrival of additional staff members will be earlier than expected and
additional space will be needed. To accommodate the needs of both departments, he proposed
adding an additional story to the building within the existing building height by taking space out of
the floor ceiling cavities. The cost for the new floor will be about $80 per square foot or $600,000,
since some of the cost factors were already included. Construction of a new truss system will add
some space in the attic for file or archive storage to accommodate the anticipated need for additional
storage and will cost another $200,000.
Secondly, Mr. Bowman recommended to expand the project by including a construction
alternate to upgrade all the finishes throughout the building that are not in the proposed renovation
plan. Twenty percent of the existing 100,000 square foot complex is planned for renovation and will
have new finishes. While having a contractor on site when shifting the departments around, the
County may want to include finish upgrades to other parts of the building. Timing will be of the
essence and Property Management will not be able to handle the additional work during the moves
of the courtrooms.
Lastly, the space study plan showed a shared parking garage for the administrative complex
and the courthouse as a separate design package. The City of Wilmington’s parking requirements
exceed the number of spaces that was forecasted for the new courtrooms. The Zoning Ordinance
allows the code enforcement officer for government structures to determine the parking needs, but
in a preliminary meeting with the City inspectors and Mike Hargett, it was noted that 230 additional
spaces will be required. He recommended a separate parking project within a two to three block
distance to serve the building. Adding another floor to the proposed building increased the parking
count requirement by 24 spaces. Office space has a lower parking requirement than assembly and
courtrooms. Although he had argued that not all of the courtrooms will be used at the same time and
that the District Attorney’s offices are normally empty when courts are in session, the City decreased
the number of spaces very little. They argued that the existing buildings require over 400 spaces.
Deputy County Manager Andy Atkinson explained that by adding a floor, the judges suites
will be moved to the third floor and the District Attorney’s Office will stay on the fifth floor. Both
departments felt that they should be on separate floors to avoid close contact in performing their
duties of the courts.
Mr. Bowman stated that before adding the floor, a full renovation of the judges’ suite was
planned. Since the judges will be relocated to another floor, the District Attorney’s Office can move
into the space as partitioned. Improved circulation is provided at a more economical cost for a
building expansion.
Chairman Caster commented that the parking situation may be a reason why the County
should consider moving its administrative functions outside of the downtown area. Then County
property could be used for parking areas. Since parking is a problem that will increase building costs
the County may need to consider other options.
County Manager O’Neal responded that there are several County projects occurring in the
downtown area that have some flexibility to accommodate the County’s space and parking needs.
Current projects include the renovation of the Historic Courthouse, the expansion project of the
Judicial Building, demolishing the Administrative Annex Building and constructing a new
Administrative Building. An analysis of the building space and parking needs will determine the best
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 1999 PAGE 267
locations for the buildings and parking areas. The proposed building on the library parking lot site
may be moved to another place in the downtown area or out of the downtown area.
Mr. Bowman suggested that other County properties in the downtown area, such as the
parking lot beside Thalian Hall, can be used as an alternate location for the administrative offices.
Additionally, the on-grade parking can be posted for the Judicial Building Expansion Project.
County Manager O’Neal suggested that the site of the Annex Building can be used to meet
the parking requirements of the Judicial Building Expansion, after the old building is removed.
Mr. Bowman agreed that a five-level parking deck could be constructed on the site. If the
County provides a letter of intent in moving forward with a parking project, the City will allow the
County to proceed with construction of the expansion. The City has completed a thorough parking
survey, dated January 1999, which shows the need for additional parking spaces for any new
construction project.
Chairman Caster also pointed out the need for additional parking in the area of Cape Fear
Community College.
County Manager O’Neal stated that the purpose of the briefing was to provide the status of
the Judicial Building Expansion project and to receive a consensus from the Board to proceed with
the recommended changes. The original construction costs of the project were estimated at $6.6
million, and approximately another $1 million will be needed for the revised plan.
Consensus:
The Commissioners accepted the recommended changes to the proposed Judicial
Building Expansion project as presented by BMS Architects and authorized the architects to proceed
with the process.
CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION TO ESTABLISH TRANSPORTATION PRIORITIES
IN NEW HANOVER COUNTY AND CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT
OF CONSTRUCTING A FOUR-LANE HIGHWAY BETWEEN WILMINGTON AND
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA
Chairman Caster reported the two transportation items listed on the agenda will be heard at
this time because of their relevance to each other, and Mr. Warwick was present to make a
presentation.
Robert Warwick, Chairman of the Community Growth Planning Task Force, spoke on the
work of the Core Team addressing transportation issues of the city and county. At last month’s
meeting with representatives of the North Carolina Department of Transportation, Louise McColl
suggested that the Task Force concentrate on three highway projects to submit to the NCDOT. The
Core Team has selected the following three transportation priorities:
1.Completion of Smith Creek Parkway: The goal is to speed the completion date of the project
that originated over twenty years ago. The current schedule calls for the project to be
completed in about seven years. The City’s Transportation Planner, Bill Austin, has stated
that the project could be completed in about 42 months. NCDOT should commit the
resources to finish the long-awaited project.
2.Completion of Independence Boulevard from Park Avenue to Randall Parkway by July 2000:
The project is on scheduled, but emphases should be made to keep the project on schedule.
3.Widening Kerr Avenue to five lanes from Peachtree Avenue to Smith Creek Parkway: The
completion of this project will bring some relief to traffic congestion on College Road and will
provide another route to I-40.
Mr. Warwick stated that there are a number of highway improvement projects in the
Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP), but these three projects should be the focus for this year’s
transportation needs. He requested the County Commissioners and City Council members to adopt
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 1999 PAGE 268
joint resolutions endorsing the three priority projects and to include the projects in the Wilmington
Urban Area Transportation Plan. He also requested that Chairman Caster and Mayor Hicks present
the resolutions to Norris Tolson, Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Transportation at
the Transportation Summit on May 26, 1999. After the Transportation Plan is adopted, all the
leaders of the community and the transportation groups should travel to Raleigh to present the plan
to NCDOT with special emphases on the importance of the three projects to the area. NCDOT
should be requested to complete the projects as soon as possible. After these three projects are
completed, the community should determine the next three transportation priorities to promote. The
State has neglected more highway construction projects in New Hanover County than any other
county in the State. The community needs to convince NCDOT to spend more money on the local
highway projects.
Chairman Caster stated that he spoke with Louise McColl, Board of Transportation member
for the local area, about the proposed resolutions and she recommended that the County support the
recommendations of the Community Growth Planning Task Force. Although a good highway to
Charlotte is needed and should be considered at some point, she had requested the Commissioners
to support the three local priorities as the primary issue and to hold off on supporting other road
construction projects.
The Commissioners requested Mr. Warwick to respond to whether the County should support
both resolutions at this time. He responded that the Community Growth Planning Task Force was
in favor of better highways between Wilmington and Charlotte. U. S. Highway 74 is another
perpetual road project that has been worked on for many years. Some sections of the highway have
too many access points, which make driving conditions hazardous. Although he supported the road
project, he did not feel it should be considered as one of the top three priorities for road construction
projects.
Commissioner Howell commented that Highway 74 is a regional highway and should not
complicate the matter of local support for the three priorities. However, the County would be
encouraging NCDOT to spend money in other counties that would facilitate the regional needs.
Bill Austin, Transportation Planner for the City of Wilmington, stated that the Comprehensive
Plan Steering Committee has listed another connection to I-95 as a long-range planning goal. Since
the State is having some funding difficulties, the County may want to emphasize the local priorities
at this time. The State has worked to improve Highway 74 by moving roads around many of the
small towns. He suggested that the Commissioners may want to take Mr. Warwick and Ms.
McColl’s recommendation to focus their support on the three local highway projects.
Concerning the time schedule of the Smith Creek Parkway project, Mr. Austin reported it
may not be possible to complete the project by 2001. Acquisition of properties will take about two
years and construction of the remaining section will take another two to three years. Nevertheless,
local support for the completion of the project should be presented as a priority.
Andrew Koeppel, a resident of the county, requested the Commissioners to adopt the
resolution in support of improvements to U. S. Highway 74. He felt that if New Hanover County
adopts the resolution, other counties along the highway would adopt the same resolution. Since
Commissioner Greer is the President of the North Carolina Association of Counties and is on first
name basis with many of the Commissioners in the State, the County could take the lead in having
other counties support the improvements to the road. Regional support will be very important in
getting Secretary Tolson to respond to the request and to proceed with a feasibility study.
Mr. Koeppel reported that in 1955, Dan Cameron, former Mayor of the City of Wilmington,
placed a high priority on building a four-lane highway between Wilmington and Charlotte. After too
many years of neglect, the project seems to be forgotten. Adopting the proposed resolution will
represent a first and significant step toward proceeding with the road project. If the County requests
the State to fund a feasibility study for the highway project, the County’s appeal to the State for
completion of the local highways projects will not be affected. He urged the Commissioners to adopt
both resolutions.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 1999 PAGE 269
Commissioner Davis asked if the Commissioners’ endorsement of the feasibility study for the
highway project to Charlotte would have a negative impact on NCDOT funding the three local
projects.
Mr. Koeppel stated that adopting both resolutions would not affect the funding of the other.
It would take several months before the other counties could adopt a resolution of support. He
stressed the importance of informing NCDOT that the region wants the highway built. Realistically,
the road construction will take more than ten to twelve years and will not detract from the local road
projects.
Commissioner Birzenieks commented on the proposed resolutions being separate and distinct,
but before any resolution of support for a four-lane highway to Charlotte has any strength, all the
other counties along Highway 74 will need to endorse the project.
Vice Chairman Greer asked if the proposed Interstate 73 will run in conjunction with Highway
74 or other roads in that area.
Mr. Koeppel replied that the proposed interstate does not extend westerly from I-95 to
Charlotte and is more northerly in direction. Funds are in place for the section of the road between
I-95 and Brunswick County. No funding has been designated for a four-lane highway between
Wilmington and Charlotte, especially around Rockingham and Hamlet.
Vice Chairman Greer stated he believed that part of the proposed interstate will go through
some of the small towns that are west of I-95. At any rate, the Commissioners will need to consider
if this request or other requests for support of road projects will dilute the intent of the resolution for
the three local priorities. Additionally, there are other groups who want support for road projects,
such as the rail transportation system to Charlotte and the proposed I-73. But the Chamber and the
Community Growth Planning Task Force have asked the County to support these three local
priorities.
Mr. Koeppel argued that the resolutions were separate and distinct from each other and
NCDOT will understand the intent of each resolution. He did not believe that support for the
Highway 74 project will compromise the three local highway projects. As Ms. McColl had stated,
NCDOT needs to know the community’s priorities for local transportation issues. He urged the
Commissioners to adopt the resolution in support of a feasibility study and to request the other
counties in the region to support the proposal. This resolution could be held and presented to
NCDOT later when the other counties have given their support. Meanwhile, the local priorities
should be submitted to NCDOT.
Chairman Caster called for a motion on the resolution to support the three priorities of the
Community Growth Planning Task Force
Motion:
Commissioner Howell MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Birzenieks, to adopt the
resolution establishing the top three priorities in local highway projects as presented by the
Community Growth Planning Task Force. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Chairman Caster called for a motion on the resolution in support of road improvements to U.
S. Highway 74.
Motion:
Commissioner Howell MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Birzenieks, to adopt the
resolution in support of a feasibility study on constructing a four-lane highway between Wilmington
and Charlotte and to request the Boards of County Commissioners along the road route to adopt
similar resolutions of support and to notify New Hanover County of their action. Upon receipt of
the resolutions, the Board will vote to submit the resolution to NCDOT. Upon vote, the MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
BREAK:
Chairman Caster called a break from 10:20 a.m. to 10:35 a.m.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 1999 PAGE 270
CONSIDERATION OF CONTRACT FOR HEALTH INSURANCE COVERAGE FOR
COUNTY EMPLOYEES FOR FY 1999-2000
Human Resources Director Andre Mallette stated that the three-year contract with Blue
Cross/ Blue Shield of North Carolina for medical insurance coverage to county employees will expire
at the end of the fiscal year. The County’s health care consultant, HealthCare 2000, had solicited
proposals from seven companies for health care coverage. Two companies, Blue Cross Blue Shield
and United Health Care, have submitted proposals for consideration. After reviewing both proposals
and the cost for the health insurance coverage for next fiscal year, staff recommended to award the
contract to United Health Care.
Peggy Harris, Account Executive with United Health Care, spoke on the proposal process
and working with HealthCare 2000 and County staff to develop a very competitive health care
program for County employees that will provide a high level of health care. United has been a
consistently strong company in managing cost and in the delivery of quality care and has an
outstanding medical care ratio. The company has a three year accreditation by the National
Committee for Quality Assurance, which is the approval rating for a high standing managed care
company. She expressed appreciation to the Commissioners for the opportunity to offer the United
Health Care proposal.
Joann Wetzel, Blue Cross Blue Shield representative, expressed appreciation for being able
to provide medical care coverage to the County for the past three years. She pointed out that the cost
difference between the two plans was less than 1% and asked the Board to consider the cost of
changing or disrupting the service to the employees if another company was awarded the contract.
She offered the advantage of the collective buying power that BCBS provides with the NCACC. The
benefits package has improved access and does not require referrals or gatekeepers.
County Manager O’Neal reminded the Board of the process that the County developed to
receive the proposals from various companies. A committee of county employees worked with
HealthCare 2000 in assessing the County’s needs. After analyzing the benefits of the programs
compared with the costs, the committee unanimously agreed upon United Health Care. Although the
service provided by BCBS has been very satisfactory, the committee made the business decision to
go with United. A list of NCACC Health Insurance Trust members showed that most were smaller
counties or organizations that were unable to get better prices for their insurance needs. One large
county, Cumberland County, participates in the trust.
Commissioner Birzenieks asked for the cost savings between the two providers.
Director Mallette responded that the proposal from Blue Cross Blue Shield was for
$5,704,121 and United Health Care proposal was for $5,587,075. Neither of the vendors offered
multi-year contracts.
Commissioner Davis asked if employees could use the same doctors as before and if any major
changes or disruptions would occur under the proposed plan with United Health Care.
Human Resources Director Mallette replied that both companies offered basically the same
doctors. The BCBS program will be a new product for the employees and the County will hold
mandatory group meetings. New cards will be issued no matter which program is chosen.
Commissioner Birzenieks commented that he had favorable experiences with both companies
and both perform very fine services. He spoke of the NCACC offering a group purchase arrangement
and that these types of arrangements work well when most of the members participate. He felt
strongly that the County should participate with the association because the County may lose
opportunities in the long run. He spoke of the common practice of vendors who offer low prices to
members of a group and then increase the rates after the group has been dissolved. Although there
is some monetary savings with United, he felt that the County should support NCACC. Eventually,
as more counties support the association and the trust, rates will decrease because the insurance risk
is less with larger groups.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 1999 PAGE 271
Vice Chairman Greer stated that he had checked on whether he should abstain from voting
because of his being president of the NCACC. It was not a conflict of interest. He agreed with
Commissioner Birzenieks that not only was it good for New Hanover County, but all counties in the
State should participate in the group purchase with the association. The main reason for the insurance
pool is to benefit counties that have problems in getting health insurance or other types of insurance.
As more counties are involved in the Trust, the association’s health insurance plan will be stronger and
more competitive. He felt strongly that the County should contract with the BCBS plan.
County Manager O’Neal stated that the County had participated in two association pools over
the years, one with liability insurance and one with workers compensation. Better rates were found
independent of the Trust.
Motion:
Commissioner Birzenieks reiterated the advantages of supporting the NCACC and having
the purchasing power of 100 counties. He then MOVED, SECONDED by Vice Chairman Greer, to
award the FY 1999-2000 health care insurance contract for county employees to Blue Cross Blue
Shield (NCACC Agreement).
Substitute Motion:
Chairman Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Davis, to award the
health care insurance contract for county employees to United Health Care. Upon vote, THE
SUBSTITUTE MOTION FAILED BY A 2 TO 3 VOTE AS FOLLOWS:
Voting Aye:Chairman Caster
Commissioner Davis
Voting Nay:Commissioner Birzenieks
Commissioner Howell
Vice Chairman Greer
Chairman Caster called for a vote on the original motion to award the contract to Blue Cross
Blue Shield. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED BY A 3 TO 2 VOTE:
Voting Aye:Commissioner Birzenieks
Commissioner Howell
Vice Chairman Greer
Voting Nay:Chairman Caster
Commissioner Davis
SELECTION OF ENGINEERING CONSULTANT TO DEVELOP COMPREHENSIVE
DRAINAGE REGULATIONS
Assistant County Manager Weaver stated that at a recent work session, the Commissioners
reviewed the proposals from Dickson and Associates and from McKim and Creed on developing
comprehensive drainage regulations for the County. He requested the Commissioners to select a firm
and to allow staff to negotiate a contract and scope of work for the project.
Commissioner Birzenieks stated that he regretted he was unable to hear the second
presentation because of having to attend a funeral. He felt uninformed in making the decision, but
would support the decision made by the Board.
Vice Chairman Greer commented that the County was fortunate to have two fine local
companies able to perform the work. Because Dickson and Associates was the group that began the
process with the drainage study, he perceived that it would be practical to continue with the same firm.
Motion:
Vice Chairman Greer MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Howell, to select Dickson
and Associates to develop the Comprehensive Drainage Regulations for the County. Upon vote, the
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 1999 PAGE 272
CONSIDERATION OF MASON’S INLET RELOCATION PROJECT
County Attorney Wanda Copley reported that at the staff meeting on Thursday, the Board had
expressed its desire to support the resolution. However on Friday, she received a revised resolution
that the Mason Inlet Preservation Group (MIPG) had approved. Attorney Bill Raney wanted the
Commissioners to have the flexibility to contract with the Figure Eight Island Homeowners
Association as an alternative to the assessment process.
Attorney Bill Raney, representing the Figure Eight Island Homeowner’s Association,
apologized for the confusion created by the late delivery of the revised resolution; and he stressed their
intent was not to cause confusion. The first draft was prepared to follow the requirements of the
statute but really did not address certain details from the engineering firm concerning the assessment
process. The revised resolution includes the requirements of the statutes for a preliminary assessment
on the property owners plus another way to provide financing of the cost at an earlier stage. After
consultation with the Institute of Government, a provision was included to allow the County to
contract with the Figure Eight Beach Homeowners Association in the amount of the cost allocated
to the Figure Eight Island home owners rather than the assessment process. This revised resolution
gives the Commissioners the ability to consider another option. Unless this provision is included in
the resolution, it may not be possible to consider it at a later time. The resolution also supports the
concept of assessing all the property owners using the statutory process and the approved formulas
as developed by the representatives of the associations. Although the statute does not require a public
hearing, the hearing will allow the public to comment on the issues. The Commissioners will be able
to make further changes to the project, but time has always been very critical to the project.
Chairman Caster expressed concern that the wording in paragraphs two and three of the
resolution seems to allow the County to contract with Figure Eight Island in a preferential way.
Mr. Raney explained that inserting the contract option would not preclude the assessment
process. At some point the Commissioners may want some flexibility because there are many
unknowns about the project, such as the final design and scope of the cost. He said if the
Commissioners were to decide on a contract agreement with the Figure Eight Homeowners
Association, the County could avoid a large amount of paperwork by staff.
Chairman Caster commented that out of the estimated total cost of $4.2 million for the project,
the assessment of Figure Eight Island will be $1.4 and Shell Island Resort area will be $2.8. He
questioned what would happen if less sand was sold to the Figure Eight Homeowners Association than
anticipated. If the Figure Eight Island people end up paying less, the Shell Island area will have to
make up the difference. The Figure Eight Homeowners Association can pay up front if they do not
want the property owners to be assessed. From the County’s perspective, the safe way for the money
to be paid back is through the assessment.
Mr. Raney explained that an equitable financial plan based on the benefits received by both
sides of the inlet was discussed. The people on Figure Eight benefit primarily from the sand they get
from the dredging. People on the Wrightsville Beach side of the inlet will benefit by reducing the
erosion threat to their properties. There is not a formula that fits both situations in allocating the total
cost of the project. Representatives of the groups felt the best way to deal with the issue was to place
a value on the quantity of sand for Figure Eight Island. If Figure Eight did not get any sand and all
the sand went to relocating the inlet, then Figure Eight would not be obligated to pay anything, as
agreed by the Figure Eight Homeowners Association and MIPG. The cost presented was based on
the project estimates in terms of quantity of material that will be dredged out of the inlet, the quantity
to fill the Wrightsville Beach side, and the quantity to fill Figure Eight Island. It is estimated that the
cost will be $4.2 million, but the final cost is unknown.
Chairman Caster stated the Board supports the relocation of the channel to save the northern
part of Shell Island by building up the beach. Other benefits include: improving water quality,
allowing boaters access through the inlet, and placing sand on Figure Eight Island.
County Attorney Copley expressed concern that in all the meetings the intent of the payback
to the County had been through the assessment process. Mr. Raney had met with his clients and they
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 1999 PAGE 273
came up with an alternative to the contract procedure. The County is more protected through the
assessment process because the property can be foreclosed upon if the assessment is not paid. The
property owner can pay the assessment immediately without paying any interest or pay it over a three
year period. A contract can have provisions included, but the County may have to sue for breach of
contract if payment is not made. Sometimes interpretation can be a problem. She advised the
Commissioners to use the assessment process and to remove the paragraph dealing with the sale of
sand from the resolution.
Chairman Caster asked if the resolution would then meet the requirements of the law.
County Attorney Copley advised that the law does not require the Board to consider the
alternative. The law is very specific on the assessment process and the County will need to be very
careful to abide by it. It will be very important to get the correct tax roll compiled and presented
because the assessment law is very strict.
Susan McDaniel, attorney for the Shell Island Resort Homeowners Association, stated the
main concern of the Shell Island property owners and the MIPG is to adopt a resolution today so that
the public hearing can occur on June 7, 1999. She urged the Commissioners to adopt the resolution
and apologized for the confusion of the revised resolution. The proposal meets all the statutory
requirements and the portion about the contract and sale of sand is another option that the Board
could consider in the future. Although the Shell Island group does not have a problem with that
portion of the revised resolution, she suggested removing it because it was more important that the
Board feels comfortable with the proposal. It is very critical that the Board adopts a resolution that
has all the statutory requirements of paragraphs one, three, four and five.
Mr. Raney apologized for the confusion of the revised resolution and stated he should have
discussed it more thoroughly with the County Attorney. He explained that the proposal does not
eliminate the assessment process for Figure Eight, but it does provide some flexibility to the financing
plan. He did not object to the straight assessment process and requested the Board to proceed in
adopting a resolution.
Chairman Caster asked for clarification of the paragraphs to remove from the resolution
concerning selling the sand to Figure Eight.
Ms. McDaniel replied that the first sentence in paragraph two should remain and the rest of
paragraph two should be removed; the remaining paragraphs pertain to the statutory requirements.
The section about the $5.50 per net cubic yard of sand is the cost allocation that all parties have agreed
to use as the basis to determine benefits to each side of the inlet.
Chairman Caster asked whether the affected homeowners would agree to the adjustment if the
actual amount of sand received is different from the estimates.
Frank Pinkston, Chairman of the MIPG, stated that the estimated benefits for the north and
the south sides of the inlet are based on the amount of sand that Figure Eight Island would receive.
If the size of the project changes, such as having less sand available for Figure Eight Island, the rate
of $5.50 will be used to make the assessments. The project cost of $4.2 million is based on the
number of cubic yards that will be dredged.
Vice Chairman Greer asked if the groups had considered using percentages as a basis for the
amount of benefit received by each side of the inlet.
Ms. McDaniel replied that percentages could not be used because of unknown factors, such
as the amount of sand that will be dredged from the inlet and channel during the project. After an
engineer is selected on June 7, design work and final plans will provide a better idea on the scope of
work and cost. The project cost has already been reduced from $6.2 million to $4.2 million and it is
conceivable that the project can be reduced even more. Flexibility will be needed to determine how
much of the dredged sand will be used at Figure Eight after the inlet is finished. Percentages will not
give that flexibility.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 1999 PAGE 274
Commissioner Birzenieks stated he would be voting against the resolution because he had
previously voted against borrowing money from the Room Occupancy Tax Funds for the project.
However, he would support any action taken by the Board henceforth.
Motion:
Chairman Caster MOVED, SECONDED BY Commissioner Howell, to adopt a revised
resolution in support of a preliminary assessment on property owners that benefit from the Mason’s
Inlet relocation project and to hold a public hearing on June 7, 1999. Upon vote, the MOTION
CARRIED three to two.
Voting AyeCommissioner Howell
Vice Chairman Greer
Chairman Caster
Voting Nay:Commissioner Birzenieks
Commissioner Davis
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contained in
Exhibit Book XXV, Page 12.
CONSIDERATION OF PARKS AND OPEN SPACE BOND REFERENDUM COMMUNITY
ASSESSMENT PROPOSAL
Parks Director Neal Lewis reported that the Commissioners approved hiring a research
consultant to conduct a public opinion poll on the public’s interest and support of a bond referendum
at the meeting on March 22, 1999. The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board and the Parks
Foundation Board of Directors have recommended approval of the proposal from East Coast
Consumer Research as the consultant to perform the public opinion poll for $30,000. At the Parks
Foundation Board meeting, the members reviewed a report prepared by the Land Trust Alliance that
gave the results of 1998 bond referenda for parks and open space nationwide. The group discussed
whether to have a bond referendum or a tax assessment to raise money for the purchase of parks and
open space. Tax assessments do not go before the voters for approval. He asked the Board to have
the research consultant ask the public their opinion of the funding. At this time, the questions for the
community assessment have not been determined.
County Attorney Copley advised that the pollsters could ask if the taxpayers were willing to
pay two cents of their taxes for “x” number of years for the purchase of park land. They could have
a choice between a bond referendum or a specific tax to allocate a certain amount of money per year
for the purchase of land.
Commissioner Birzenieks commented that the County would get the money up front in a lump
sum payment from a bond referendum. By using a tax assessment, the County would have to wait
until enough capital was raised over a number of years before the land could be purchased. As fast
as land is being used in the county, it may be better to have the money up front to purchase the land.
Director Lewis replied that the availability of the money would be a drawback; however, recent
school bond issues may influence whether another bond referendum will pass.
Commissioner Birzenieks felt that the research consultant should include the question in the
community assessment to determine how much people will be willing to pay to get the additional parks
and open space throughout the county.
Motion:
Commissioner Birzenieks MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Davis, to award the
contract to East Coast Consumer Research of Wilmington to perform a community assessment on the
acquisition of land for parks and other green space and to determine whether to have a bond
referendum or tax assessment to raise the necessary money. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
CONSIDERATION OF RENEWAL OF LEASE AGREEMENT WITH COAST LINE
CONVENTION MANAGEMENT, INC.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 1999 PAGE 275
Charles Carver, General Manager of the Hilton Hotel, stated that an 18 month extension to
the lease agreement with Coast Line Convention Management is requested to satisfy the bank’s
request for a condition for sale of the Coastline Inn property. The extension will allow the Convention
Center to have a three year planning horizon for those who want to book the center two to three years
in advance. The City of Wilmington approved the extension on April 20, 1999.
Mr. Carver spoke of the importance of the convention center to the local economy. A recent
survey by Deloitte and Touche revealed that a typical conventioneer contributes $217 per day to the
local community. As General Manager of the Hilton, Mr. Carver stated he has used the convention
center for 14 major conventions in the past year. Seven conventions could not have come to
Wilmington without the availability of the facility. In December, Carolina Association of Collegiate
Registrars and Admissions will hold its conference at the Hilton and will use additional meeting spaces
at the Convention Center. The Convention and Visitors Bureau estimates that the group will bring
about $1 million in economic activity to the area. The Hilton will receive $80,000 for room rentals
and collect $4,800 for sales tax, $2,400 for Room Occupancy Tax, and $1,400 for beach
renourishment.
Chairman Caster asked when the City and County will stop subsidizing the Convention Center.
Mr. Carver replied that the Convention Center has started to pay for some of its operations;
however, some money will always come from another source. Most all convention centers receive
funding from an outside source. It is important to consider the value of the facility and service to the
community, especially for local civic shows, garden shows, and other similar activities.
Motion:
Commissioner Birzenieks MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Howell, to approve
an 18 month extension to the lease agreement with Coast Line Convention Management, Inc. Upon
vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
CONSIDERATION OF AMENDMENTS TO THE BYLAWS OF THE CAPE FEAR
MUSEUM BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Chairman Caster reported at the last meeting, the Commissioner removed the Amendments
to the Bylaws of the Cape Fear Museum Board of Trustees from the Consent Agenda for further
review. He asked the Board if there were questions for the Museum Director.
Vice Chairman Greer asked why the Museum Board of Trustees included Article XI in the
bylaws.
Museum Director Janet Seapker responded that Dr. Hooper wanted the members to be able
to vote by proxy, but it was determined that proxy votes were not appropriate. Robert’s Rule of
Order Revised allows absentee voting by mail, and the Board of Trustees voted to include the article
into the bylaws.
After discussing the effect of members not attending regular meetings of boards and
committees, Vice Chairman Greer stated it would be inappropriate to allow absentee voting by
members who were not attending the meetings. If board members care enough about the functions
and business of a board, they will attend the meetings to vote.
Motion:
Vice Chairman Greer MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Howell, to adopt the
amendments to the Bylaws of the Cape Fear Museum Board of Trustees, excluding Article XI. Upon
vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
A copy of the bylaws is on file at the Cape Fear Museum.
COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS:
Appointment of Bethel M. Paris to the Bicycle Advisory Committee
Chairman Caster announced that one vacancy needed to be filled on the Bicycle Advisory
Committee and only one application has been received in the name of Bethel M. Paris.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 1999 PAGE 276
Motion:
Vice-Chairman Greer MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Birzenieks, to appoint
Bethel M. Paris to the Bicycle Advisory Committee. The term will expire May 31, 2001. Upon vote,
the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Appointment of Barbara Bradshaw Kidd to the Cape Fear Coast Convention and Visitors
Bureau
Chairman Caster announced that three vacancies needed to be filled on the Cape Fear Coast
Convention and Visitors Bureau in the categories of At-Large, Lodging Representative and a
Marketing, Advertising, and Public Relations Professional. Only one application has been received
in the name of Barbara Bradshaw Kidd, who is serving an unexpired term as the Lodging
Representative. Robert Rippy has requested that the Board not reappoint him as the At-Large
Representative.
Motion:
Commissioner Birzenieks MOVED, SECONDED by Vice Chairman Greer, to reappoint
Barbara Bradshaw Kidd to the Cape Fear Coast Convention and Visitors Bureau as the Lodging
Representative. The term will expire May 31, 2002. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
Chairman Caster requested that the Clerk to the Board re-advertise the vacancies for the At-
Large Representative and the Marketing, Advertising, and Public Relations Professional.
Reappointment of James E. Moore to the Insurance Advisory Committee
Chairman Caster announced that one vacancy needed to be filled on the Insurance Advisory
Committee and two applications have been received in the names of Tom J. Collins and James E.
Moore, Jr. However, Carlton Allegood, the Executive Director of the Insurance Commission, has
reported that Mr. Collins does not meet the qualification that the applicant must be an officer, owner
or partner of an independent insurance agency and licensed to provide property and casualty insurance.
Mr. Moore is the only qualified applicant.
Motion:
Commissioner Birzenieks MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Howell, to reappoint
James E. Moore, Jr. to the Insurance Advisory Committee. The term will expire May 8, 2002. Upon
vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Reappointment of Debra Clement and Trude Rennick to the Commission for Women
Chairman Caster announced that two vacancies needed to be filled on the Commission for
Women and seven applications were on file. He informed the Board that Debra Clement and Trude
Rennick were eligible for reappointment.
Motion:
Vice-Chairman Greer MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Birzenieks, to reappoint
Debra Clement and Trude Rennick to the Commission for Women. The terms will expire May 31,
2002. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
CONSIDERATION OF REIMBURSEMENT TO THE TOWN OF CAROLINA BEACH FOR
BEACH RENOURISHMENT AND MATCHING REQUIREMENT FOR DAMAGE
INCURRED BY HURRICANE BONNIE
Assistant County Manager Dave Weaver reported the Town of Carolina Beach has requested
that the County reimburse the Town $72,000 from the Room Occupancy Tax Fund (ROT) for
emergency beach protection work for damage incurred by Hurricane Bonnie. The Port, Waterway,
and Beach Commission has recommended that the County reimburse the Town $68,400, or 95%, with
the Town to pay $3,600, or 5%. The Commission adopted a new policy that came about as a result
of the request. No Federal or State money is available for unscheduled or emergency work and the
Corps does not provide a project engineer for oversight. The members felt that at least 5% of the cost
should be paid by the Town to insure some responsibility in cost control of the project.
Richard Catlin, Chairman of the Port, Waterway and Beach Commission, commented on this
being an unusual request because historically beach renourishment project costs are shared by the
Federal and State governments and are overseen by the US Army Corps of Engineers. The
Commission felt that it would be good business to continue the concept of local participation to
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 1999 PAGE 277
improve public opinion on beach projects and to provide local ownership in cost control. After some
consideration, the members felt that 5% of the cost would be a fair amount for the municipalities to
pay. In February, the Commission received a request from the Town of Carolina Beach for
reimbursement of $302,000 from Hurricane Fran damage and requested that the Town have the Corps
of Engineers look over the cost. The Corps found the cost reasonable and necessary. Also, FEMA
had Price Waterhouse to perform a financial audit on the project and they found the costs were
reasonable and consistent with the intent of the ROT Fund. The Commission recommended full
reimbursement of the cost, but felt a policy was needed to address future emergency projects that do
not have Federal sponsorship and professional project oversight. The Town of Carolina Beach was
told that the Commission would recommend reimbursement of 95% of the project before the
emergency project was started.
Chairman Caster stated that since the beginning of his appointment to the Port, Waterway and
Beach Commission, there had been some discussion on whether there should be a local match on all
projects. Colonel Paul Dennison, a former Commission member who had retired from the Corps,
always had advocated that there should be a local match on even the Corps’ sponsored projects. His
feelings were that people outside of New Hanover County objected to federal tax money being used
for beach renourishment. Some local ownership would counteract some of those concerns. Current
members of the Commission are very conservative and want to protect the taxpayers’ interests.
Vice Chairman Greer commented that the Commissioners may want to consider how the 5%
match will affect the County with the $4.2 million project on Mason’s Inlet.
Commissioner Howell asked if each of the reimbursement requests will come before the
Commissioners for their consideration. He felt there may be some circumstances where the Board may
want to waive the 5% local match.
Chairman Caster responded that the Commissioners approve all requests for reimbursements,
but the Port, Waterway and Beach Commission reviews the requests and gives a recommendation to
the Board for approval.
Mayor Ray Rothrock of the Town of Carolina Beach spoke highly of the work performed by
the Port, Waterway and Beach Commission. He explained that costs of scheduled beach
renourishment projects with the Corps of Engineers have been shared with the Federal government
on down to the local level. The reimbursement of the $302,768 that Carolina Beach had requested
for damage by Hurricane Fran was not a scheduled Federally funded project. Five percent of $302,768
is a large amount of money for Carolina Beach, Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, or New Hanover
County to match for beach renourishment when the Room Occupancy Tax Fund has $15 million. The
purpose of the ROT Fund is to renourish the beaches for the natives and tourists to enjoy. He
requested the Commissioners to provide 100% reimbursement on this project and all emergency beach
projects.
Commissioner Davis commented that the Commissioners should not change a policy at the
same time they implement the policy. If 100% reimbursements have been made in the past, it would
not be fair to implement the 5% ruling at this time. The Commissioners should consider the proposed
policy before imposing the 5% ruling on future projects.
Mayor Rothrock replied that representatives from Carolina Beach attended the meeting of the
Port, Waterway and Beach Commission and were told that the Commission was considering the 5%
local match for this particular beach project. He urged the Commissioners to fully reimburse all of
these types of projects. The hotels and motels of the beach communities are collecting the tax for the
purpose of beach renourishment projects.
Motion:
Commissioner Birzenieks MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Howell, to reimburse
the Town of Carolina Beach the full $72,000 from the Room Occupancy Tax Fund for the emergency
beach protection work. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
In further discussion of the need to address the proposed policy, Mr. Catlin spoke of the Port,
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 1999 PAGE 278
Waterway and Beach Commission’s desire to have some project control mechanism for local
emergency projects to protect the $12 million Room Occupancy Tax Fund. The Corps of Engineers
has a project engineer or manager to insure that the regularly scheduled project is reasonable and
necessary, which provides some protection to the County fund. However, on emergency projects
there is nobody protecting the ROT fund. As Federal and State legislators are educated about the
beach renourishment program, it will be important to tell them that local participation is required. If
the county is hit by several hurricanes and there are several emergency projects, the ROT Funds could
be severely impacted. To require the municipalities to pay from their budgets may give some control
of the costs instead of carte blanche. Several requests for reimbursements were considered before
formulating the proposed policy.
Chairman Caster requested the Port, Waterway and Beach Commission to come back to the
Commissioners with a policy recommendation for future projects and he expressed appreciation to the
Commission for its diligence in protecting the beach renourishment funds.
BREAK:
Chairman Caster called a break from 12:10 p.m. to 12:30 p.m.
MEETING RECESS TO HOLD A REGULAR MEETING OF THE NEW HANOVER
COUNTY WATER AND SEWER DISTRICT
Chairman Caster convened from Regular Session at 12:30 p.m. to hold a meeting of the New
Hanover County Water and Sewer District.
Chairman Caster reconvened to Regular Session at 12:45 p.m.
DISCUSSION ON INSTALLATION OF WATER LINES IN THE WILMINGTON/HANBY
BEACH AREA
Assistant County Manager Weaver reported that the County has committed to constructing
a sewer line system in the Wilmington/Hanby Beach area that will be annexed by the Towns of
Carolina Beach and Kure Beach. The County had decided to install the sewer lines in response to a
worsening public health problem caused by failing septic systems. The County has recently been
requested to install the water lines at the same time that sewer lines are installed. The cost of the
water lines could be added to the sewer line assessment for the individual property owners, but a
mandatory assessment for water may not be as critical or justified as the assessment of sewer lines
because of the health issues. Another option would be to bill the Towns of Carolina Beach and Kure
Beach for the additional construction costs when annexation has occurred in those areas. Then the
Towns could assess the property owners for the water lines. Installation of both lines at the same time
could save the beach communities 10-20% of the cost.
County Engineer Wyatt Blanchard reported that the County may be eligible to receive a
wastewater grant for unsewered communities, which can defray some of the costs. The grant could
pay for all of the construction cost in the streets, but not the cost of the hook up from the street to the
house. The grant application is due by July 31, 1999, and could be awarded by late October.
Harry Dale, Engineering Services, spoke on the Rural Center accepting grant applications for
sewer projects in unsewered communities giving priorities to communities with health hazzards. If
approved, the grant will pay 90% of the project or $3 million cap.
Mayor Ray Rothrock of the Town of Carolina Beach spoke on the joint effort between the
County and the Towns to provide the water and sewer services at the best cost for the citizens. If the
grant is approved for the sewer, the money saved will go toward providing the water lines. He
reported that the Town of Carolina Beach is not as far along in the annexation process as the Town
of Kure Beach. Carolina Beach has passed a resolution to consider annexation of the remainder of
the island that is not in Kure Beach. He stated that the Town Council would prefer the County to pay
for the water line installation and assess the property owners. If not, the Town would rather be billed
after the annexation is completed. The Town of Carolina Beach cannot assess property owners in the
extra-territorial jurisdiction area of Wilmington Beach until the annexation has occurred, but the
County can assess them when the project is completed.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 1999 PAGE 279
Mayor Betty Medlin of the Town of Kure Beach reported that the annexation plan for Kure
Beach will be effective January 1, 2000. She expressed appreciation to the Board for considering both
construction jobs at the same time for a cost savings and benefit for everyone. The Town of Kure
Beach was in agreement that the County either assess the property owners or bill the respective towns
for the cost as it desires.
Motion:
Chairman Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Birzenieks, to contract with the
Towns of Carolina Beach and Kure Beach for the installation of water lines at the same time as sewer
lines in Wilmington/Hanby Beach area and to have the County bill the Towns upon the effective dates
of their respective annexations.
In further discussion of when the County should bill the Towns, Vice-Chairman Greer
expressed concern that the Town of Carolina Beach may have problems with its annexation plans if
the property owners do not want to be annexed because the County has already provided them with
water and sewer services. Also, if the Town of Carolina Beach does not proceed with the annexation
plan, the County may not ever get paid.
Mayor Rothrock replied he did not think that would be a problem. Adopting the Resolution
for Consideration of Annexation is the first step, and the Town plans to proceed. The sewer project
is to eliminate the problem of sewage for the area. The water lines are being installed to save
installation costs and to provide water service after annexation has occurred. Two new wells have
been installed and another well is planned at Wilmington Beach. He did not perceive that there would
be a problem providing the water. Currently, the Town has a moratorium on adding connections to
the water system.
Assistant County Manager Weaver pointed out the possibility of changes in the members of
Town Councils or the Mayors with the regularly scheduled elections. To protect the County, it may
be necessary to establish dates when the County should collect from the Towns. If January 1, 2001
is too soon for Carolina Beach, he suggested using another date besides the effective date of the
annexations as an inducement to keep things on schedule.
Mayor Rothrock requested that he go back to his Town Council to determine a schedule for
the annexations and report back to the Commissioners an appropriate date for the billing. The next
Town Council meeting will be May 27, 1999.
Chairman Caster asked Mayor Medlin if the billing date of January 1, 2000 will be satisfactory
for Kure Beach.
Mayor Medlin responded that the annexation will be effective on that date, but the Town of
Kure Beach will need additional time to pay the County.
Chairman Caster stated that approval of the request should be continued until the first meeting
in June to allow Mayor Rothrock to set a billing date.
County Engineer Blanchard stated that the contract with Engineering Services will need to be
amended to designate the starting date of the work.
County Attorney Copley advised that there may be a problem with an annexation effective date
binding one board while the other annexation is not effective. Also, the County may not be able to
contract with the Towns based on a proposed annexation date. If the Town does not annex, they may
not pay the bill if they do not have control over the area.
Vice Chairman Greer suggested that the contract with the Towns of Carolina Beach and Kure
Beach should be paid back on a certain date and not based on annexation.
Consensus:
The Commissioners tabled the approval of the installation of the water lines until the
Town of Carolina Beach has provided an effective date for the billing and staff has time to work out
the details.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 1999 PAGE 280
ADDITIONAL ITEMS
Commissioner Birzenieks commented on the untrue and derogatory remarks made by Mr.
Vosnock about Commissioner Greer during the Water and Sewer District Meeting. He stated that he
found Commissioner Greer to be a man of honor and integrity.
Vice Chairman Greer stated that he did not acknowledge Mr. Vosnock’s comments because
of his disrespect to the Commissioners and the audience and he did not want to argue with the man.
However, he expressed concern that the issue of sewer allocation to Pender County keeps coming up.
Tim Baldwin with McKim and Creed made the original suggestion to provide the service as a regional
economic development tool. Because he had consulted for Dell Labs, Vice-Chairman Greer had
excused himself from the discussions and voting on the issue. He stated that it was not his idea or Dell
Labs for the County to provide the sewer allocation. He wanted to resolve the issue, but he did not
know how to publicly correct it. He stated for the record that he did not do anything wrong and that
he would not do anything wrong. He felt the only person who could clarify the issue is Tim Baldwin.
Chairman Caster apologized for making an issue of Mr. Vosnock wearing the cap in the public
meeting.
Discussion of Additional Funding for the Renovation Project of the Institute of Government
Vice Chairman Greer stated the Institute of Government is requesting money from the counties
to complete improvements of their facilities. The legislators gave some money for the renovations but
an additional $4 million is needed. He asked the County Manager to place the request on the next
agenda.
Presentations by Engineering Firms for the Mason’s Inlet Project
Assistant County Manager Weaver informed the Board that the presentation from engineering
firms for the Mason Inlet project is scheduled for Friday, June 4, 1999, at 9:00 a.m. to noon, in Room
501 of the County Administration Building. A recommendation should be given to the Board at the
Regular Meeting on June 7, 1999. He invited the Commissioners to hear the presentations.
ADJOURNMENT
Motion:
Commissioner Howell MOVED, SECONDED by Vice Chairman Greer, to adjourn the
meeting. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Chairman Caster adjourned the meeting at 1:10 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Teresa P. Elmore
Deputy Clerk to the Board