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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1999-09-14 Emergency Meetings NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27 MINUTES OF EMERGENCY MEETINGS FOR HURRICANE FLOYDPAGE 505 SEPTEMBER 14, 15,16, 17, AND 18, 1999 ASSEMBLY The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners held an Emergency Session on Tuesday, September 14, 1999, at 12:00 noon in Room 501 of the County Administration Building, 320 Chestnut Street, Wilmington, North Carolina. 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 Clerk to the Board, Lucie F. Harrell. Others present were: Mayor Hamilton E. Hicks, Jr, City of Wilmington.; Mayor Ray Rothrock, Town of Carolina Beach; Mayor Betty Medlin, Town of Kure Beach; and Mayor Avery Roberts, Jr., Town of Wrightsville Beach. Chairman Caster called the meeting to order and requested Emergency Management Director, Dan Summers, to present a briefing on Hurricane Floyd. HURRICANE BRIEFING Director Summers reported that Hurricane Floyd was a large dangerous storm event and he presented the following report: ? Arrival of gale force winds is expected by 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 15, 1999. ? Estimated time for decision to evacuate should be made no later than 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 15, 1999. ? Evacuation should start at 12:00 noon on Wednesday, September 15, 1999, with completion no later than 7:00 p.m. that evening. ? The Joint Information Center will open today at 12:00 noon and remain open until 11:00 p.m. tonight. Continuous operation of the center will begin at 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 15, 1999. ? The Emergency Operations Center will be activated on Wednesday, September 15, 1999, at 7:00 a.m. and remain open as long as needed. ? The Special Needs Emergency Operations Center was activated this morning at 8:00 a.m. and will operate until 5:00 p.m. Continuous operation will begin on Wednesday, September 15, 1999, at 8:00 a.m. and remain open as long as needed. ? Court and School closings will be recommended on Wednesday, September 15, 1999. ? The process of setting up the equipment for shelters began at 12:00 p.m. today. ? Shelters will be opened at 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, September 15, 1999. ? The generator contract will be activated. ? The beach communities will have to decide if the sale of alcoholic beverages should be terminated at 12:00 noon on Wednesday, September 15, 1999. ? Other Issues: Discourage sight-seeing during the storm. Continue preparedness actions. Encourage out-of-area evacuation with the use of local shelters as the last resort. Encourage people going to shelters to bring personal evacuation items. Monitor events very closely for rapid changes in the characteristics of Hurricane Floyd. The possible storm surge is 6 to 10 feet. Do not call the 911 Center unless it is an actual emergency, and keep cellular calls short. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27 MINUTES OF EMERGENCY MEETINGS FOR HURRICANE FLOYDPAGE 506 SEPTEMBER 14, 15,16, 17, AND 18, 1999 ? Be prepared for sudden changes in the track of Hurricane Floyd. At the present time the strike probability is as follows: Charleston, South Carolina 31%; Myrtle Beach 37%; Wilmington 23%, and Morehead City 28%. The storm is running parallel to the coast and Wilmington is on the worst side. In concluding the report, Director Summers recommended adopting a State of Emergency Declaration because of sudden changes that could occur in the movement of Hurricane Floyd that would create danger to persons living near the water and in low-lying areas. Chairman Caster asked if any of the elected officials would like to comment. Dr. John Morris, Superintendent of Schools, announced that schools will be closed on Wednesday, September 15, 1999. Judge Cobb announced that the courts will be closed on Wednesday, September 15, 1999. Discussion followed on scheduling the next briefing. It was the consensus of the elected officials to schedule a Hurricane Floyd briefing on Wednesday, September 15, 1999, at 9:00 a.m. in Room 501 of the County Administration Building, 320 Chestnut Street, Wilmington, North Carolina. ADOPTION OF PROCLAMATION DECLARING A STATE OF EMERGENCY IN NEW HANOVER COUNTY Motion: Vice-Chairman Greer MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Birzenieks to adopt a proclamation declaring a State of Emergency in New Hanover County. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. A copy of the proclamation is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXV, Page 20. HURRICANE BRIEFING SCHEDULED FOR SEPTEMBER 15, 1999 After discussion of the size and threat of the hurricane, the elected officials agreed to schedule another briefing on Wednesday, September 15, 1999, at 9:00 a.m. in Room 501 of the County Administration Building, 320 Chestnut Street, Wilmington, North Carolina. ADJOURNMENT Chairman Caster expressed appreciation to all persons attending the Emergency Session, and he adjourned the meeting at 12:45 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Lucie F. Harrell Clerk to the Board MINUTES OF EMERGENCY MEETING, SEPTEMBER 15, 1999 ASSEMBLY The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners held an Emergency Meeting on Wednesday, September 15, 1999, at 9:00 a.m. in Room 501 of the County Administration Building, 320 Chestnut Street, Wilmington, North Carolina. 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 Clerk to Board, Lucie F. Harrell. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27 MINUTES OF EMERGENCY MEETINGS FOR HURRICANE FLOYDPAGE 507 SEPTEMBER 14, 15,16, 17, AND 18, 1999 Others present were: Mayor Hamilton E. Hicks, Jr., City of Wilmington; Mayor Ray Rothrock, Town of Carolina Beach; Mayor Betty Medlin, Town of Kure Beach; and Mayor Avery Roberts, Jr., Town of Wrightsville Beach. Chairman Caster called the meeting to order and requested Director of Emergency Management, Dan Summers, to present a briefing on Hurricane Floyd. HURRICANE BRIEFING Director Summers stressed the importance of realizing this is a dangerous hurricane and he recommended the evacuation of beaches, sounds, areas along the Intracoastal Waterway, areas near River Road and River Oaks, and low-lying areas along the Cape Rear River. Residents living in mobile homes or sub-standard housing should seek hardened structures. He presented the following report: ? Begin evacuation at 9:00 a.m. today, Wednesday, September 15, 1999. The evacuation is to be completed no later than 2:00 p.m. ? The Joint Information Center will be open until further notice. ? The Emergency Operations Center will be open until further notice. ? The Special Needs Emergency Operations Center will be open until further notice. Director Summers reported that two large generators are on line at the two shelters. The Trask and Dorothy B. Johnson shelters will be opened to the public at 11:30 a.m. Once these shelters are filled, the Laney and Codington shelters will be opened as needed. Mayor Rothrock recommended completion of the beach evacuations by 2:00 p.m. instead of 1:00 p.m. in order to provide more time to carry out the process. Director Summers noted that he was comfortable with the 2:00 p.m. evacuation. The major concern is rainfall, which was heavy last night. High clearance vehicles have been requested from the State so some flooded areas can be accessed. Dr. Bill Atkinson, CEO/President of New Hanover Regional Medical Center, reported the patient count in the hospital is high; therefore, hospitals in outlying areas should carry patients inland instead of to the Medical Center. Storm crews are in place and Staff will be doubled until the storm event is over. Hurricane injuries, such as falling when putting up shutters or slipping on a wet ladder, are being seen in the Emergency Room. He urged the media to warn people about being cautious when preparing for the hurricane. Mayor Hicks reported the City Manager is holding a staff meeting at 10:00 a.m. to insure all policies have been coordinated. The City is ready for the storm. Director Summers recommended amending the State of Emergency Declaration as follows: ? Order a mandatory evacuation at 9:45 a.m. on Wednesday, September 15, 1999 for the beaches, sounds, areas adjacent to the Intracoastal Waterway, areas on River Road, River Oaks, and low-lying areas along the Cape Fear River. The evacuation is to be completed no later than 2:00 p.m. Mobile home residents and residents in sub-standard housing should seek hardened structures. ? Order a curfew in the County to become effective at 10:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 15, 1999 until further notice and prohibit the sale of alcoholic beverages until further notice. Motion: After agreement of the curfew by the municipalities, Commissioner Birzenieks MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Davis to amend the State of Emergency Proclamation to order a mandatory evacuation at 9:45 a.m. as stated by the Emergency Management Director and order that NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27 MINUTES OF EMERGENCY MEETINGS FOR HURRICANE FLOYDPAGE 508 SEPTEMBER 14, 15,16, 17, AND 18, 1999 no alcoholic beverages can be sold until further notice. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. A copy of the amended proclamation is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXV, Page 20. ADJOURNMENT Motion: Commissioner Birzenieks MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Davis to adjourn. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Chairman Caster adjourned the meeting at 9:30 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Lucie F. Harrell Clerk to the Board. MINUTES OF EMERGENCY MEETING, SEPTEMBER 16, 1999 ASSEMBLY The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners held an Emergency Session on Thursday, September 16, 1999, at 9:30 a.m. in the Auditorium of the New Hanover County Health Department, 2029 South 17th Street, Wilmington, North Carolina. 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; and Clerk to the Board, Lucie F. Harrell. Others present were: Mayor Hamilton E. Hicks, Jr., City of Wilmington; Mayor Ray Rothrock, Town of Carolina Beach; and Mayor Betty Medlin, Town of Kure Beach. Chairman Caster called the meeting to order. Dr. John Morris, Superintendent of Schools, reported that after meeting with the Senior Staff, it was found that four schools have power and there is water and roof damage in a number of schools. The Wrightsville Beach Elementary School has a foot of water inside the building, and a crew will visit the Carolina Beach Elementary School this afternoon. It appears there will be no school on Monday. Mayor Medlin reported that Kure Beach is without electrical power and the curfew will be reviewed tomorrow morning. Mayor Rothrock reported that Carolina Beach does not have electrical power and the curfew will be reviewed tomorrow morning. There was a great deal of overwash on the northern end of Carolina Beach and water is being pumped from the lake into the ocean. The lack of power is a problem; however, generators are operating the water and sewer system. The bridge is closed except to emergency vehicles and crucial service personnel, such as CP&L, natural gas, etc. The curfew will remain in effect until tomorrow morning. Mayor Hicks reported a curfew will be invoked from sunset until sunrise because of the lack of electrical power. As the power returns, the curfew will be reviewed. Water and sewer services are being provided, including the Dobo systems. Greenfield Lake did overflow and there is no damage to the dam. Police were on routine patrol as of 9:30 a.m. today. There will be no traffic coordination by police officers at intersections, and persons have been informed to use the 4-signal stop regulation, which worked well as of this date. The police will remain focused on 911 calls. The NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27 MINUTES OF EMERGENCY MEETINGS FOR HURRICANE FLOYDPAGE 509 SEPTEMBER 14, 15,16, 17, AND 18, 1999 debris is estimated to be slightly more than Hurricane Bonnie because of recently annexed areas. Mayor Hicks commented on the Duplin County two-million gallon hog waste spill that is moving toward the Cape Fear River, and he advised that he had spoken to Mr. Wayne McDevitt to request a complete analysis by the State regarding the assessment of drinking water for the City of Wilmington. It is imperative for the City to know if pumping from the Cape Fear River should be stopped until this assessment has been completed by the State. Mayor Hicks said while talking to Mr. McDevitt, he was informed that the Tar River would crest 26 feet over flood stage on Sunday. There is no estimate for the Cape Fear River, but there could be some serious problems in downtown Wilmington along the waterfront. In closing, Mayor Hicks stated he had just been informed by the City Manager that a curfew would remain in effect from 8:00 p.m. Friday until 7:00 a.m. Saturday with no sale of alcoholic beverages. Motion: Commissioner Birzenieks MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Davis to amend the State of Emergency Proclamation to change the curfew in New Hanover County from 8:00 p.m. Friday until 7:00 a.m. Saturday. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. A copy of the amended proclamation is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXV, Page 20. Mayor Rothrock reported that he and Mayor Medlin will review the curfew in the morning and coordinate a curfew. Dr. Bill Atkinson, President/CEO reported the Medical Center had electrical power and was functioning well. The Emergency Medical Services had been busy, but things have been under control. The hospital should be back to full operation by Saturday morning. Mr. John Elliott, representing Carolina Power & Light Company, reported that as of 4:00 p.m., there were 71,472 customers without power, which represents 66% of total customers. Problems are being experienced with crews reaching the area because of rising water and the flooding of I-40, which is now closed. Assessments are being performed and power is being restored at substations that are not under water. In Wallace, North Carolina, the power substation is five feet under water and the water continues to rise. CP&L is in the process of trying to locate wide-track vehicles that can get in the marsh area. In the Morehead City area, 90% of the customers do not have power. County Manager O’Neal reported that Laney and Codington shelters are in the process of being closed. Trask and Dorothy B. Johnson shelters will remain open until further notice. Due to the amount of water damage to the county administrative building and the judicial building, all County offices will be closed and court will not be held. The emergency personnel will be expected to perform in their designated position. A walk through of the buildings revealed that roofs and carpeting will have to be replaced. County Manager O’Neal advised that several lift stations are down because of tree damage and water intrusion. Residents living in Brickstone, Prince George, and Flemington cannot drink their water unless it is boiled. There is a force main problem at Rockhill Road, which has washed away and created an exposed main. Engineering crews are working on several sewer spills, and downtown Castle Hayne is under three feet of water. County Manager O’Neal requested Mr. Allen Golden, Assistant Inspections Supervisor, to present the damage assessment at this point. Mr. Golden commented on the number of inaccessible roads, particularly in Castle Hayne and on Figure Eight Island. He presented the following figures based on 15% of the County survey: NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27 MINUTES OF EMERGENCY MEETINGS FOR HURRICANE FLOYDPAGE 510 SEPTEMBER 14, 15,16, 17, AND 18, 1999 Housing Losses $1,700,000 Business Losses $ 406,000 Debris Removal 51,000 cubic yards of vegetative debris 309 cubic yards of building debris Mr. Golden reported it will take three days to complete the survey. Inspections in crawl spaces under residences, showed water standing over many electrical components. Residents will not be aware of this fact and some of these components will catch on fire when the power is returned. All residents in low-lying areas should check their crawl spaces and cut off the power if electrical components are wet or in standing water. Also, there is concern for property owners not being able to access Figure Eight Island or other low-lying areas because the roads are flooded. In concluding the report, Mr. Golden advised that no figures have been received from Carolina Beach or Wrightsville Beach; however, approximately 30 minutes ago a call was received from Carolina Beach informing him that the northern end of the beach was not accessible. County Manager O’Neal reported that Staff would keep the Board informed as the assessments are received. Captain Smith reported the Sheriff’s Department has returned to normal operation with the exception of augmented patrols. Calls have been received from persons concerned about looting occurring in empty houses. More patrols are out and the deputies will watch for looters and vandals. Director of Environmental Management, Ray Church, reported the debris removal should be between 35,000 and 55,000 tons of debris. The following sites will be open on Friday, September 17, 1999, to accept vegetative debris: Big Cypress Farm Land located on Myrtle Grove Road Blue Clay Recycling located on Blue Clay Road north of Kerr Avenue Wilmington Materials located on Highway 421 North. Director Church advised that a contract was in place with Phillips & Jordan, the firm that cleaned up debris after Hurricane Bonnie, and the subcontractors are working at this hour. DRC was awarded the contract to clean up the construction and demolition materials, and this company is on standby to determine the amount of construction and demolition materials. The WASTEC Facility operated through Hurricane Floyd with minimal damage. The Landfill will be opened on Friday, September 17, 1999. Approximately 11 acres of Landfill Cell 5 have been constructed, and no permit has been received to operate the cell. After Mr. Bill Meyer with the State was contacted, he authorized use of Cell 5. In concluding the report, Director Church requested the Board to adopt a resolution to allow the contractors on the private properties and to implement a burning ban. After a lengthy discussion of debris removal, the following actions were taken by the Board: Motion: Commissioner Birzenieks MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Davis to adopt a 30- day burning ban with revisiting these issues if necessary, and adopt a resolution to allow contractors to access private roads and private communities for collection of vegetative debris as a result of Hurricane Floyd. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Copies of the resolutions are hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and are contained in Exhibit Book XXV, Page 20. Motion: Commissioner Birzenieks MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Greer to authorize Staff to continue the contract with Phillips & Jordan, contingent upon clarification with FEMA, for disposal of vegetative debris as a result of Hurricane Floyd, and to contract with DRC, if necessary, for disposal of construction and demolition materials as a result of Hurricane Floyd. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27 MINUTES OF EMERGENCY MEETINGS FOR HURRICANE FLOYDPAGE 511 SEPTEMBER 14, 15,16, 17, AND 18, 1999 Copies of the contracts are on file in the Legal Department. Motion: Commissioner Howell MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Birzenieks to contract with Wilmington Materials, Blue Clay Recycling, and the Big Cypress Landfill to allow private citizens to access these facilities for free disposal of vegetative debris as a result of Hurricane Floyd. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Copies of the contracts are on file in the Legal Department. Director Summers reported that BellSouth had restored service to 80% of the customers in New Hanover County. Coinless units will be set up in various locations for free local calls. The closing of I-40 will continue to be monitored. It appears the road will remain closed for a few days. The U. S. Coast Guard has responded to pollution response incidents. Two barges ran a ground at Ft. Fisher across from Sunny Point. There was a slight generator interruption at the Southside Wastewater Treatment Plant, and a 450KW generator was loaned to the City. Calls to the 911 Center and Emergency Operations Center are at an all time high. They are processing numerous requests and the good news is that 70 to 80 percent of emergency response needs are being handled within New Hanover County. There have been a number of responses where boats had to be used to rescue people from flooded areas. The Seagate Fire Department has been relocated off Oleander Drive. The Salvation Army has provided canteen services to public safety operations in the field. Five mobile feeding stations are in operation with eight more expected to arrive from Florida. Many of the local companies are furnishing ice and water to the community. Director Summers advised that all centers were operated efficiently, and he praised the manner in which the Special Needs Emergency Operations Center was operated. Director of Social Services, Wayne Morris, expressed appreciation to the Board for furnishing generators to the shelters. With ample electricity, there was a significant improvement in the overall operation. County Manager O’Neal reported the County Offices will be closed on Friday, September 17, 1999, because of water damage to buildings. EMERGENCY MEETING SCHEDULED FOR FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 1999 After discussion of the need to hold another meeting, the public officials agreed to schedule a meeting on Friday, September 17, 1999, at 4:00 p.m. in the Auditorium of the Health Department. ADJOURNMENT Motion: Commissioner Birzenieks MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Davis to adjourn. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Chairman Caster adjourned the meeting at 5:00 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Lucie F. Harrell Clerk to the Board MINUTES OF EMERGENCY SESSION, SEPTEMBER 17, 1999 ASSEMBLY The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners held an Emergency Session on Friday, September 17, 1999, at 4:00 p.m. in the Auditorium of the New Hanover County Health Department, 2029 South 17th Street, Wilmington, North Carolina. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27 MINUTES OF EMERGENCY MEETINGS FOR HURRICANE FLOYDPAGE 512 SEPTEMBER 14, 15,16, 17, AND 18, 1999 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; and Clerk to the Board, Lucie F. Harrell. Others present were: Wilmington Mayor Hamilton E. Hicks, Jr.; Carolina Beach Mayor Ray Rothrock; Kure Beach Mayor Betty Medlin; and Wrightsville Beach Mayor Avery Roberts, Jr. Chairman Caster called the meeting to order, and he requested Emergency Management Director, Dan Summers, to present a briefing on the Hurricane Floyd. HURRICANE BRIEFING Director Summers reported that the Emergency Operations Center was processing 15 to 20 missions per hour. Approximately 80% of emergency responses are being handled with County resources and 20% with State support. There are 63 counties in North Carolina under major emergency operations. The State is completely out of air assets with 68 aircraft in operation statewide. Discussion is being held on federal deployment of aircraft to be assigned to local governments. All major medical emergencies must be flown from Brunswick County. One helicopter is assigned to Brunswick County. It appears an aircraft will be assigned to the New Hanover County Emergency Operations Center. The Dorothy B. Johnson shelter remains in operation through tonight. This the only shelter open. The shelter is needed to accommodate a transient population that cannot return to their homes. The United Way has activated its unmet needs task force to coordinate cash donations and supplies to persons in need. The U. S. Environmental Protection Agency, at the request of FEMA, has provided a technical support team to Emergency Management for pollution incidents. There have been a few incidents where fuel tanks have surfaced because of water in the ground. The Coast Guard and HAZMAT Team have responded to these incidents. Director Summers reported the 800MHZ communication system functioned well through the entire hurricane event. A rain gage at the location of the 800MHZ tower recorded 19.5 inches of rain in less than an 8-hour period. The building and system performed well, but the hydraulic pressure from surrounding water caused the water to go under the building creating enough pressure to break the 4-inch concrete floor. As a result the water went into the 800MHZ radio system and covered the generator, primary controller, and repeaters. It was felt the water could be pumped down and the system salvaged. Contact has been made with Motorola and this company has built a new system that will be flown in from Illinois on a lease rental basis with an existing contract, which will be addressed as an emergency response issue under FEMA. Also, an alternate tower site had already been selected in the Seabreeze area in the contingency plan. The tower and antenna will be relocated. Currently, the 800MHZ backup system with the General Electric Nuclear Fuel Facility is being used to transmit and receive calls. The system was down approximately 20 minutes. This backup system has proven to be successful in light of a catastrophic event. The tower withstood a wind gust of 133 mph. This means the tower is substantial, but the building is too low. The building will be elevated and Emergency Management will proceed with completing other tower projects. The support given by Motorola was excellent. County Manager O’Neal reported that a road washed out at the County Landfill and WASTEC received minimal damage. The Museum has experienced water in the basement, but it will open on Saturday. The County Property Management Department will continue to work on water damage in the administration building, and County Offices will be opened on Monday, September 20, 1999. County Manager O’Neal reported that bottles are being handed out by the Health Department to take samples of well drinking water so residents can have the water tested for contamination. The actual testing will begin on Monday, September 20, 1999. In concluding his remarks, County Manager O’Neal reported the Governor’s Office had been contacted to request the media to announce the condition of roads throughout the State. Staff was NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27 MINUTES OF EMERGENCY MEETINGS FOR HURRICANE FLOYDPAGE 513 SEPTEMBER 14, 15,16, 17, AND 18, 1999 informed that this request would be granted, and the media will begin listing roads that are closed and alternate routes. Sheriff McQueen said that he would forward any information received on road conditions to the Joint Information Center. Chairman Caster reported that Senator Edwards and Representative McIntyre visited the Emergency Operations Center and took a tour of New Hanover County. Governor Hunt, Secretary Richard Moore and Mr. Jim Whit from FEMA visited the area and held a press conference. N. C. Representative McComas, Representative Wright, and N. C. Senator Ballantine were present and were complimentary of New Hanover County, the success of Project Impact, and the excellent job being performed by Emergency Management Director Summers. Senator Ballantine addressed the poor condition of Emergency Operations Center and hearing that a regional Emergency Operations Center could be developed, it appeared that Governor Hunt and Secretary Moore were interested in funding this type of facility. In closing, Chairman Caster said that the people of New Hanover County were fortunate because after the storm more than 300 people were stranded on top of roofs in the Tarboro area waiting to be rescued. Also, it has been reported that seven people have been found dead in cars. The number of fatalities from the storm will probably increase as the water recedes. Mr. Allen Golden presented a report on the damage assessment reflecting the following figures: Housing Losses:$16,560,240 Business Losses:$ 5,466,300 Debris:Building Debris 21,542 cubic yards Vegetative Debris 268,309 cubic yards In concluding the report, he advised the estimated total damage figure is $23,765,646 with 95% of the assessment completed. EMERGENCY MEETING SCHEDULED FOR SEPTEMBER 18, 1999 After discussion, the public officials agreed to schedule an Emergency Meeting on Saturday, September 18, 1999, at 4:00 p.m. in the Auditorium at the Health Department. ADJOURNMENT Motion: Commissioner Birzenieks MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Davis to adjourn. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Chairman Caster adjourned the meeting at 5:20 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Lucie F. Harrell Clerk to the Board EMERGENCY MEETING, SEPTEMBER 18, 1999 ASSEMBLY The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners held an Emergency Session on Saturday, September 18, 1999, at 4:00 p.m. in the Auditorium at the New Hanover County Health Department, 2029 South 17th Street, Wilmington, North Carolina. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27 MINUTES OF EMERGENCY MEETINGS FOR HURRICANE FLOYDPAGE 514 SEPTEMBER 14, 15,16, 17, AND 18, 1999 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; and Clerk to the Board, Lucie F. Harrell. Others present were: Mayor Hamilton E. Hicks, Jr., City of Wilmington. Chairman Caster called the meeting to order and requested Director of Emergency Management, Dan Summers, to present a briefing on Hurricane Floyd. HURRICANE BRIEFING Director Summers reported that the Emergency Operations Center was still operating at a high volume of response in the recovery effort. The following information was presented: ? The U. S. Coast Guard has reported that 13 diesel tanks have floated up in the water, and these incidents will be investigated. ? The Sheriff’s Department is routing all calls regarding road conditions to the Joint Information Center to keep the public better informed. ? The New Hanover County Fire Services Department has reported that most power line situations have been cleared. ? Wrightsville Beach is having some telephone problems. ? The Salvation Army has 14 canteens activated and 12 more are on the way. ? Red Cross is hoping that the request for water and ice will be met today. ? The Department of Social Services is planning to close the Dorothy B. Johnson shelter this afternoon. Lunch will be served today. ? The Health Department reported that Animal Control will open from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. today so people can pick up their animals that were left at the shelter. ? The Schools have not made a decision about opening schools on Monday, September 20, 1999. Ogden Elementary School, Trask Middle School, and Laney High School are without power. ? Carolina Power & Light Company has 28,794 customers without power. The company hopes to have the power of 90% of these customers restored by midnight on Sunday, September 19, 1999. Some of the transformers in the Ogden area are under sand and must be dug out. The roads in the Castle Hayne area are not passable. ? The Wilmington Fire Department reported that the Cotton Exchange might be electrically condemned. The front of one building has collapsed. ? EMS has a steady call volume. They are continuing coverage of the northern part of Brunswick County. Eight units are on the road in New Hanover County. No word has been received about assignment of a helicopter to the area. ? No word has been received from the State Emergency Response Team about the Black Hawk. Forty-two requests have been made for assistance with twenty-two completed, ten canceled and eight pending. ? The Engineering Department has contractors activated to assist with Edgewater Club Road. Water is standing in the road and people are trapped in their homes. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27 MINUTES OF EMERGENCY MEETINGS FOR HURRICANE FLOYDPAGE 515 SEPTEMBER 14, 15,16, 17, AND 18, 1999 ? The Highway Patrol reported that 701 South has been closed. Highway 74 is open and 210 North in Onslow County is closed. ? BellSouth reported that phone lines at Carolina Power & Light Company are working. Ten lines have been installed at the National Guard Armory on Carolina Beach Road. ? The New Hanover County Public Information Officer has just returned from damage assessment. It appears that Kure Beach faired well, and Wrightsville Beach is already open to homeowners and businesses. The downtown area of Carolina Beach is open to everyone, but the northern end is covered with sand. ? The 3-day weather forecast is 1.5 to 2.5 inches of rain. This could require the Emergency Operations Center to activate. In concluding the report, Director Summers advised that Mr. Allen Golden would present revised damage assessment figure. He introduced Mr. Gene Gladden, a representative of the State Emergency Response Team, and said that he would like to make a few comments. Mr. Gladden complimented Director Summers and his Staff for performing an excellent job in carrying out the emergency response plan. The State Emergency Response Team has begun to set up four logistical staging areas throughout the State. Currently there are three activated staging areas in the State located in Wilmington, Elizabeth City, and Kinston. These staging areas serve as the resource allocators for the individual counties. The staging area in Wilmington is at the old Guard Station at the Airport and is responding to 26 counties. With the size of this emergency, it is difficult to assign aircraft to individual counties. It is almost unbelievable that flooding would occur in Greenville, Rocky Mount, and Kinston. The State Emergency Response Team has responded to 145 mission requests since 12:00 noon today. Mayor Hicks requested Mr. Gladden to define a typical mission request. Mr. Gladden responded that a typical mission request would be a need for personnel, vehicles, search and rescue, etc. In Wilmington, the main request has been for Guard support to move equipment. Director Summers advised that 1,300 mission deployments were performed out of the New Hanover County Emergency Operations Center in 11 days after Hurricane Fran. The good news is that 80% of mission requests have been met with local resources within the community, which is a credit to the community. Mr. Gladden again complimented Director Summers for the extraordinary manner in which he has developed the emergency response plan for New Hanover County. He explained that the concept of the system is to utilize local resources as much as possible to allow the State to spread out its resources to provide assistance to all areas. Vice-Chairman Greer advised that Project Impact played a significant role in communicating the need for residents living in New Hanover County to be prepared for hurricanes. This preparedness does avoid the loss of life and lessens the damage to structures. Mr. Gladden agreed with Vice-Chairman Greer and stated when residents are prepared to deal with a crisis, they deal with the storm and it does not become a crisis management situation. Other areas have not been as successful as New Hanover County in preparedness. County Manager O’Neal presented the following information: ? Schools will be closed on Monday, September 20, 1999, but it will be a workday for teachers and staff who are able to report. ? The Emergency Operations Center will close tonight at 11:00 p.m., and will open on Sunday, NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27 MINUTES OF EMERGENCY MEETINGS FOR HURRICANE FLOYDPAGE 516 SEPTEMBER 14, 15,16, 17, AND 18, 1999 September 19, 1999, between 7:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m. ? The Joint Information Center will open on Sunday, September 19, 1999, at 10:00 a.m. and close at 6:00 p.m. ? FEMA public affairs officials will arrive on Sunday, September 19, 1999, around 1:00 p.m. ? The Carolina Beach Information Center is closed and information was forwarded that the town officials would not be attending the briefing. ? The Health Department will begin mosquito spraying this afternoon and spray until 7:00 a.m. Sunday morning. Inspections Director, Jay Graham, reported that Carolina Beach received the most damage with some structures that need to be condemned. He said the Inspections Department will be opened, but electrical and building personnel will have to be dedicated to the assessment effort. Mr. Allen Golden reported that damage assessment in the unincorporated area of New Hanover County was completed. He advised that the door-to-door assessment was going well; however, no one has not been able to get to the northern end of Carolina Beach. The following figures were presented: Housing Losses:$19,824,900 Business Losses: 8,054,400 DebrisBuilding Debris 129,342 cubic years Vegetative Debris 276,050 cubic yards The total damages are $30,311,652 with 98% of the assessment completed. The project total damage figure is $37,000,000. Assistant City Manager Bill Whisnant reported that all utilities have been operational during the storm. The Police Department had an average to moderate evening, and restoration of the power to the Creekwood South area should improve the situation. Approximately 5 to 6 extra police officers will be on duty to provide response to the public. All traffic signals will be in operation by noon on Sunday, September 19, 1999. Road signs and damaged portions of roads in the City have been barricaded and identified. The N. C. Department of Transportation will assess the condition of the culverts under Carolina Beach Road near Greenfield Lake by tomorrow evening. The water has receded and temporary sheet pilings have been installed to further examine the berm that holds the water in Greenfield Lake. This area has been barricaded and alternate routes have been provided to the public. The School System, County Parks Department, and City Parks and Recreation Department have developed a schedule to re-open athletic fields sometime next week. The City golf course is open for play today without carts. The County and City contractor for debris removal began with 5 crews today and 15 crews will be in place by next week. The City is most appreciative to the County for arranging to use prison labor to clean up public areas. Wrightsville Beach Manager, Tony Caudle, reported that Wrightsville Beach would be closed to the public tomorrow with access limited to residents, contractors, and people with businesses on the island. The N. C. Department of Transportation has worked on the western embankment of the bridge, and all roads are now passable. Police events have been minimal, and Carolina Power & Light Company has restored most of the power on the beach. U. S. Coast Guard Captain, John E. Williams, reported the Port of Wilmington has reopened the Intracoastal Waterway from New River Inlet South to Little River Inlet for all recreational and commercial vessels with drafts less than 10 feet. The Cape Fear River has been reopened to commercial and recreational vessels with drafts less than 33 feet. He advised the Marine Safety Office of Wilmington has returned to its building. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 27 MINUTES OF EMERGENCY MEETINGS FOR HURRICANE FLOYDPAGE 517 SEPTEMBER 14, 15,16, 17, AND 18, 1999 Mr. John Elliott, representing Carolina Power & Light Company, reported that 225,000 customers were without power in the eastern region. As of this date, fewer than 100,000 customers are without power. In New Hanover County, 75,000 customers were without power and as of this date, 24,000 are still without power. Crews will work through the night to restore with 80% to be restored by Sunday night. Director Summers reported that radios arrived and it is hoped that a 5-channel repeater system will be operational by late tonight or the first thing in the morning. This means that public safety will have first priority on the system. Other non-public safety agencies may receive a busy signal until more repeaters are received. Also, the engineering system will be operational by tomorrow morning. ADJOURNMENT Motion: Commissioner Birzenieks MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Davis to adjourn. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Chairman Caster expressed appreciation to the public officials for their cooperation during the storm event, and he complimented Director Summers, Staff, County and City Employees and all agencies for the team work demonstrated in successfully dealing with Hurricane Floyd. Chairman Caster adjourned the meeting at 4:40 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Lucie F. Harrell Clerk to the Board