1998-03-23 Regular Meeting
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERSBOOK 26
REGULAR MEETING, MARCH 23, 1998PAGE 369
ASSEMBLY
The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners met in Regular Session on Monday,
March 23, 1998, at 9:00 a.m. in the Assembly Room of the New Hanover County Courthouse, 24
North Third Street, Wilmington, North Carolina.
Members present were: Commissioners Buzz Birzenieks; Ted Davis, Jr.; Charles R. Howell;
Vice-Chairman Robert G. Greer; Chairman William A. Caster; Deputy County Manager, Andrew J.
Atkinson; County Attorney, Wanda M. Copley; and Clerk to the Board, Lucie F. Harrell.
Chairman Caster called the meeting to order and welcomed everyone present.
INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Assistant to the County Manager, Patricia Melvin, 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.
No items were presented.
APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA
Vice-Chairman Greer requested removal of Consent Agenda Items 6, 7, 9, 10, and 13 for
further discussion.
Commissioner Davis requested removal of Consent Agenda Item 5 for further discussion.
Motion:
Commissioner Howell MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Birzenieks to remove
Consent Agenda Items 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, and 13 as requested and approve the remaining items as
presented. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
CONSENT AGENDA
Approval of Minutes
The Commissioners approved the following sets of minutes as presented by the Clerk to the
Board:
Retreat January 23 & 24, 1998
Special Meeting March 5, 1998
Regular Meeting March 9, 1998
Authorization to File a Criminal Justice Partnership Program (CJPP) Targeting Grant
Application
The Commissioners authorized the filing of a grant in the amount of $12,500 to the State
Criminal Justice Partnership Program. The funds will be used to continue the services of a consultant
to review the “targeting” process for the Criminal Justice Partnership Program to insure the proper
offenders are being sentenced to the Day Reporting Center. It was anticipated the review would be
completed by the end of FY 1997-98. In order to be sure the County has funding to complete the
review by the end of the current fiscal year, the State Criminal Partnership Program Director has
requested the County to apply for $12,500. If all of the money is not needed, it will revert to the
State. The total amount of the grant cannot exceed the original $25,000.
Acceptance of Community Meeting Space Grant for Northeast Branch Library and Approval
of Budget Amendment #98-36
The Commissioners approved the budget amendment and accepted a grant in the amount of
$20,000 from the State of North Carolina to be used for the renovation of the Northeast Branch
Library building. The funds will be used to provide meeting space within the building for use by
community groups.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERSBOOK 26
REGULAR MEETING, MARCH 23, 1998PAGE 370
Budget Amendment #98-36 - Library - Northeast Branch Capital Project
DebitCredit
State Grant $20,000
Capital Project Expense$20,000
Purpose:
To budget a State grant for the Library’s Northeast Branch renovation.
Acceptance of Hazard Mitigation Planning Grant and Approval of Budget Amendment #98-
0135
The Commissioners accepted a grant in the amount of $266,668 awarded by the Federal
Emergency Management Agency and the N. C. Division of Emergency Management and approved
the associated budget amendment. The funding is to be used to establish a partnership of
governmental, business and public interests, and initiate an on-going process for preparation of a
mitigation and post-disaster redevelopment plan. The length of the project is 24 months. Federal
funding was received in the amount of $200,000 and State funding in the amount of $66,668. No
County match was required.
Budget Amendment #98-0135
DebitCredit
Hazard Mitigation Grant-Federal$206,333
Hazard Mitigation Grant-State 66,668
Contracted Services$145,000
Supplies 68,001
Advertising 30,000
Capital Outlay 30,000
Purpose
: To establish a budget for the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program awarded to Emergency
Management.
Approval of Amendments to the New Hanover County Personnel Policy
The Commissioners approved amendments to Articles I, III, VI, VII and IX of the New
Hanover County Personnel Policy. The changes are primarily for clarification and consistency.
A copy of the amendments are on file in the Human Resources Department.
Release of Value - Tax Department
The Commissioners released the following late listing penalty since the taxpayer listed this
property on time in another county:
Centura Leasing$60.79
Acceptance of Tax Collection Reports - Tax Department
The Commissioners accepted the following Tax Collection Reports through February 28,
1998, as submitted by the Collector of 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 XXIV, Page 18.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERSBOOK 26
REGULAR MEETING, MARCH 23, 1998PAGE 371
Approval of Budget Amendment #98-0130 - Health Department
The Commissioners approved the following budget amendment:
#98-0130 Health/Maternal Health
DebitCredit
MCC/CSC Mini Grant $1,000
Contracted Services $750
Departmental Supplies 250
Purpose:
To budget a one time mini-grant from the State to assist Maternity Care Coordination/Child
Service Coordination families in obtaining their GED/high school education.
Approval of Budget Amendment #98-0138 - Health Department/Animal Control/Jail Health
The Commissioners approved the following budget amendment:
#98-0138 Health Department/Animal Control/Jail Health
DebitCredit
Animal Control
Dog and Cat Tags $75,000
Jail Health
Contracted Services$56,000
Departmental Supplies 19,000
Purpose:
To budget funds for the projected Jail Health budget deficit. Due to over crowding at the
Jail, a $99,000 deficit is projected in the Jail health budget. The budgeted funds for medications and
required medical services have been expended. The Health Department will fund $24,000 of the
shortfall through available salary funds. The remaining $75,000 will be funded by increasing the
revenue estimated for Animal Control fees, which should exceed the budgeted amount by $75,000.
Note:
The County has an arrangement with New Hanover Regional Medical Center to accept the
Medicaid rate for provided treatment. Without this arrangement, an additional $14,000 would be
needed for treatment costs.
DISCUSSION AND APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEM 5, APPROVAL OF
CONTRACT #98-0306 WITH POST, BUCKLEY, SCHUH & JERRNIGAN, INC.
Commissioner Davis inquired as to the length of time the firm of Post, Buckley, Schuh &
Jerrnigan had been used by the County, and he asked if a local firm could perform the work? He also
asked if FEMA would reimburse the County for closure of Landfill Cell No. 1?
Director of Environmental Management, Ray Church, responded notification has been
received from FEMA that New Hanover County will be reimbursed 90% of engineering and
construction costs. The reimbursement will not be received until expenditures have been made for
closing Cell No. 1, which will probably be next fall. He advised the County had used the firm of Post,
Buckley, Schuh and Jerrnigan since 1978, and the service received had been excellent. Other firms
have been considered, but a decision was made several years ago to continue with this firm until
construction has been completed for Landfill Cells 1-6. During this period of time, the Environmental
Department has performed a cost analysis for certain projects, and it was found that Post, Buckley,
Schuh & Jerrnigan have remained very competitive.
Commissioner Birzenieks expressed concern for using the same firm for such a long period
of time, and he recommended providing an opportunity to local firms when seeking proposals for
projects of this type. He stressed the importance of everyone understanding that fresh ideas and new
approaches are healthy when bidding large projects.
Vice-Chairman Greer asked how many cells had been constructed and requested an
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERSBOOK 26
REGULAR MEETING, MARCH 23, 1998PAGE 372
explanation on when the decision was made to continue to use the firm of Post, Buckley, Schuh and
Jerrnigan?
Director Church responded discussion occurred two years ago regarding the completion of
the one large cell, which is comprised of 1-6 contiguous cells, and it was determined that Post,
Buckley, Schuh and Jerrnigan should be used until the project was completed.
Chairman Caster requested Director Church to provide the Board with a report explaining
when Cells 1-6 will be completed and when local firms will be provided an opportunity to bid on
projects of this type.
Vice-Chairman Greer asked which figure was correct, $66,510 or $65,510, since the amount
was listed differently on the agenda sheet and resolution?
Director Church advised the contract price was $66,510.
Motion:
Commissioner Howell MOVED, SECONDED by Chairman Caster to adopt a resolution
awarding a contract in the amount of $66,510 to Post, Buckley, Schuh and Jerrnigan for closure of
Landfill Cell No. 1. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contained in
Exhibit Book XXIV, Page 18.
A copy of the contract is on file in the Legal Department.
DENIAL OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEM 6, BID #98-0621 TO EASTERN TECHNOLOGY
ASSOCIATES, L.L.C. FOR AN UPGRADE TO THE COMPUTER SYSTEMS FOR THE
DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
Vice-Chairman Greer reported that no action was taken on the computer upgrade for the
Department of Social Services at the March 9, 1998, meeting because of concern about additional
funding for the new child welfare positions required by the State of North Carolina. He advised that
Mr. Kevin M. FitzGerald, the Director of the N. C. Division of Social Services, was requested to see
if New Hanover County would be required to provide a local match of 25%.
Deputy County Manager Atkinson advised that $780,714 was required to hire the additional
child welfare positions. Under Senate Bill 352 (the Appropriations Bill from the 1997 General
Assembly) New Hanover County was allocated $59,080 from the $1.3 million Social Services Block
Grant with no county match required. After deducting the $59,080 from $780,714, the County is
required to pay a 25% match on $721,634, which equals to $180,409.
The following break down of funding was presented:
Total funds required for additional staff$780,714
SSBG allocation for this purpose (59,080)
Additional funds required, net of SSBG 721,634
Required county match @ 25% of $721,634 $180,409
Additional State and Federal IV-E allocation 541,225
Vice-Chairman Greer asked why the 25% was not removed from the $780,714 minus the
$59,080, since this method of calculation would have reduced the county match.
Deputy County Manager Atkinson advised since there were two different sources of funding,
he felt the Division of Social Services was required to use the formula listed above, particularly since
New Hanover County is not a low wealth county.
Vice-Chairman Greer advised the legislation does not refer to low wealth counties; therefore,
this was an interpretation from another source.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERSBOOK 26
REGULAR MEETING, MARCH 23, 1998PAGE 373
Commissioner Birzenieks agreed with Vice-Chairman Greer and stressed the importance of
knowing the intent of the General Assembly when the legislation was enacted, not the bureaucratic
interpretation by state agencies. He stated since the low wealth formula was not mentioned in the
legislation, he would recommend requesting staff to check into this matter and report back to the
Board.
Deputy County Manager Atkinson advised he would be glad to investigate the matter and
report back to the Board.
Discussion followed on the need for the computer upgrade at the Department of Social
Services. Deputy County Manager Atkinson reported the computer system at the Department of
Social Services was not performing up to its capacity because of increased utilization of the system.
He advised that in order to speed up the system and maintain efficiency of the department, the
computer upgrade was needed.
Vice-Chairman Greer objected to using a portion of salary lag in the Department of Social
Services to fund the computer upgrade. He advised that normally this money would be rolled over
into the Fund Balance at the end of the fiscal year.
After further discussion, the Board agreed and requested staff, in the future, to include all
equipment needs as part of the budget review so these requests could go through the normal budget
process.
Chairman Caster called for a motion on the computer upgrade. Due to the lack of a motion,
the REQUEST WAS DENIED.
DISCUSSION AND DEFERRAL OF ACTION ON CONSENT AGENDA ITEM 7, REQUEST
FOR A PROPERTY EXCHANGE WITH LANDFALL ASSOCIATES
Vice-Chairman Greer reported when Landfall was developed, the Board of County
Commissioners required inclusion of a bike path. A few years later, Landfall Associates decided to
give a part of the bike path to New Hanover County. Now, Landfall Associates have made an offer
to obtain a parcel of land that is part of the bike path property owned by New Hanover County. In
exchange for this land (Tract A), Landfall Associates will deed approximately 1.1 acres of land
adjacent to the bike path (Tracts B and C) to New Hanover County.
Vice-Chairman Greer requested the Board to consider requesting Landfall Associates to assist
with maintaining the area.
Assistant County Manager, Dave Weaver, reported he had not been able to contact Landfall
Associates about the proposed maintenance of the area. He advised that maintenance of the bike path
was minimal with grass and weeds having to be cut every two weeks during the summer. A hurricane
could create a maintenance problem; however, the County should be reimbursed for hurricane debris
removal costs.
DEFERRED
After discussion of the need to contact Landfall Associates, the Board
ACTION
on the request.
DISCUSSION AND APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEM 9, A CONTRACT #98-
0323 WITH STATE LINE SCRAP & DEMOLITION FOR REMOVAL OF METALS FROM
WASTECASH - ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
Vice-Chairman Greer commented on the agenda sheet referencing the contract and stated
the Board had not received a copy of the contract.
Assistant County Manager, Dave Weaver, passed out the draft contract.
Vice-Chairman Greer questioned a 7-year contract and stated if the Citizens Solid Waste
Advisory Board should decide to terminate the operation of the incinerator, could the County
terminate the contract?
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERSBOOK 26
REGULAR MEETING, MARCH 23, 1998PAGE 374
Mr. Geof Little, Recycling Manager, responded there is a 30-day cancellation clause which
allows either party to terminate the contract with cause. He advised that State Line Scrap Metal &
Demolition will remove metals from the WASTEC ash at the Landfill, manage and purchase the
appliances received at the Landfill including recovering freon from refrigeration units, and purchase
scrap metal collected at the Landfill and WASTEC. State Line Scrap Metal & Demolition will not
pay for metal removed from the ash because of the heavy investment required in processing
equipment and the costs associated with daily operation, maintenance and transportation. State Line
Scrap Metal & Demolition will pay $12 per ton for appliances (including freon removal) and scrap
metal.
Motion:
Vice-Chairman Greer MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Howell to approve the
contract as presented with State Line Scrap Metal & Demolition for removal of metals from
WASTEC ash. The Chairman was authorized to execute the necessary contract documents. Upon
vote, MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
A copy of the contract is on file in the Legal Department.
DISCUSSION AND APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEM 10, CONTRACT #98-0234
WITH SOUTHEASTERN EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT COMPANY FOR THE PURCHASE
OF AUTOMATIC EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATORS
Deputy County Manager, Andrew J. Atkinson, advised the original bid proposal was for the
purchase of 33 units; however, the County decided to buy only 31 units which represents a cost of
$99,913. Twenty of the defibrillators will be placed in County buildings and eleven defibrillators will
be assigned to the Fire Services District.
Commissioner Birzenieks spoke in favor of purchasing the units because human lives could
be saved in an emergency.
Vice-Chairman Greer inquired as to why the Medical Center was not making this decision
since the hospital would be operating Emergency Medical Services?
Deputy County Manager Atkinson advised these were not sophisticated defibrillators that
have to be used by experts. The defibrillators can be used by anyone without training nor bodily
harm.
Motion:
Commissioner Birzenieks MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Davis to adopt a
resolution awarding the bid to Southeastern Emergency Equipment Company in the amount $99,913
for the purchase of 31 automatic external defibrillators for the Emergency Medical Services
Department and the Fire Services District. The Chairman was authorized to execute the necessary
contract documents. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS:
Voting Aye:Commissioner Birzenieks
Commissioner Davis
Commissioner Howell
Chairman Caster
Voting Nay:Vice-Chairman Greer
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contained in
Exhibit Book XXIV, Page 18.
A copy of the contract is on file in the Legal Department.
DISCUSSION OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEM 13, BUDGET AMENDMENT #98-35 FOR
NEW HANOVER COUNTY SCHOOLS
Vice-Chairman Greer commented on the additional bond funds received for New Hanover
County Schools in the amount of $2,890,392 that must be spent on capital projects, and he
recommended appropriating the funds for development of a vocational education program.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERSBOOK 26
REGULAR MEETING, MARCH 23, 1998PAGE 375
Finance Director, Bruce Shell, reported the budget amendment was placed on the agenda to
increase the budget for receipt of the funds; however, the Board has authority to stipulate a specific
line item as to how the funds can be spent.
Commissioner Davis commented on the use of Certificates of Participation to acquire the land
for the Pilots Ridge project and stated this action freed up an additional $3,276,000 previously
earmarked for land that can be used for a capital project. He recommended using these funds for a
vocational education program.
Finance Director Shell stated the Commissioners have not made a decision on how the
$3,276,000 should be spent. He reported the money was part of the $125,000,000 bond issue.
Vice-Chairman Greer advised his intent was to place the additional funding that was not
expected to be received by the County for New Hanover County Schools in a line item contingency
account so the money could be used at a later date for a vocational education school.
Commissioner Birzenieks advised he felt it was the intent of the Board to develop a strong
vocational education school and recommended setting aside both sources of money for vocational
education.
Chairman Caster cautioned the Board about becoming involved with trying to run the school
system. He stated he was not elected to serve on the Board of Education.
Motion:
Vice-Chairman Greer MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Birzenieks to place the
$2,890,392 and $3,276,000 in a line item designated as a vocational education capital expense and
to approve Budget Amendment #98-35 to reflect receipt of additional bond revenue. Upon vote, the
MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS:
Voting Aye:Commissioner Birzenieks
Commissioner Davis
Commissioner Howell
Vice-Chairman Greer
Voting Nay: Chairman Caster
Chairman Caster stated, for the record, he voted in opposition to the motion because he was
not sure that a vocational education high school was needed.
#98-35 - 1996 State School Bond Expense Plan
Debit Credit
1996 State School Bond Expense Plan
Bond Proceeds$2,890,392
Capital Project Expense$2,890,392
Purpose:
To increase budget for additional bond funds available.
PRESENTATION OF NEW HANOVER COUNTY SERVICE AWARDS
Deputy County Manager Atkinson requested the following employees to step forward to
receive service awards:
Jan G. Kavanaugh MIS10 Years
Ruby M. CromartieProperty Management10 Years
Chairman Caster, on behalf of the Board presented the service awards and expressed
appreciation to each employee for their years of dedicated service.
RECOGNITION OF NEW COUNTY EMPLOYEES
Deputy County Manager Atkinson requested the following new employees to stand and be
recognized:
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERSBOOK 26
REGULAR MEETING, MARCH 23, 1998PAGE 376
George Wright, Environmental Management
Patricia McGinley, Engineering
Mary Ann Metcalf, Cooperative Extension Service
Monica Roberson, Health Department
Brenda Hunt, Health Department
Sheila Foery, Health Department
Virginia Clegg, Health Department
Rhonda Howell, Health Department
W. E. Eslick, Inspections Department
Flo Sellards, Register of Deeds
Meghan McDonald, Department of Social Services
Michelle Fann, Department of Social Services
Mary Phenicie, Department of Social Services
Penny Funai, Department of Social Services
Chairman Caster, on behalf of the Board, welcomed the new employees to County
government and wished them well in their new positions.
PRESENTATION ON VETERANS, MILITARY RETIREES, AND THEIR DEPENDENTS
IN NEW HANOVER COUNTY
Mr. Bob Angeli, Director of Veteran Services, reported the veteran population in New
Hanover County is 15,600, which does not include the veterans from the Korean and Vietnam War.
Last year, the Veteran Services Office received 6,212 inquires pertaining to compensation and
pension, medical services, education, loans, burial, insurance, and miscellaneous items. Compensation
and pension cases are the heaviest workload in the office. Compensation is a disability for veterans
that is rated from 0% to 100% on increments of 10 for any injuries or illnesses incurred while serving
in active duty. Pension is for wartime veterans that have injuries or illnesses not connected to the
service and can no longer work because they are disabled. This is an income based program that is
means tested. There are approximately 300 to 400 of these cases in New Hanover County.
Figures were presented on VA expenditures in New Hanover County for Fiscal Year 1996.
New Hanover County received $16,359,241 broken down into compensation and pension;
readjustment and vocational rehabilitation; insurance and indemnities; construction and related costs;
and medical services and administration.
The total expenditures for military retirees in New Hanover County for FY 1996 was
$2,738,803, and the annual Department of Defense benefit for the Survivors Benefit Plan was
$2,068,434. The new tri-care health benefits program for military retirees is $1,199,307.
In closing, Mr. Angeli expressed appreciation to the Board for providing him an opportunity
to present the report.
Commissioner Birzenieks inquired as to the method used to determine the number of veterans
in New Hanover County?
Mr. Angeli responded the figures are based on the latest census. The VA upgrades figures
annually; however, in his opinion, there are more veterans in North Carolina than listed.
Chairman Caster, on behalf of the Board, expressed appreciation to Mr. Angeli for the
informative report.
WITHDRAWAL OF ITEM 4, A PRESENTATION BY PATSY MILLER CONCERNING A
DRAINAGE PROBLEM ON CANADY ROAD NEAR PAGES CREEK
Chairman Caster asked if Ms. Patsy Miller or any other person was present to report on the
drainage problems being experienced on Canady Road? No one responded.
The item was withdrawn from the agenda.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERSBOOK 26
REGULAR MEETING, MARCH 23, 1998PAGE 377
PROCLAMATION DESIGNATING MARCH 1998 AS PROFESSIONAL SOCIAL WORK
MONTH IN NEW HANOVER
Chairman Caster read a proclamation designating March 1998 as Professional Social Work
Month in New Hanover County. He requested the Board to adopt the proclamation.
Motion:
Vice-Chairman Greer MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Birzenieks to adopt a
Professional Social Work Month
proclamation designating March 1998 as in New Hanover County.
Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Chairman Caster, on behalf of the Board, presented the proclamation to Ms. Deborah
Maxwell, and he expressed appreciation to the social workers at the Department of Social Services
for the excellent job being performed in New Hanover County.
A copy of the proclamation is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contained
in Exhibit Book XXIV, Page 18.
BREAK
: Chairman Caster called a break from 10:05 a.m. until 10:15 a.m.
PRESENTATION ON WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT EDUCATION PROGRAM IN
NEW HANOVER COUNTY SCHOOLS
Mr. Macy McRae, Director of the Workforce Development Education Program, expressed
appreciation to the Board for providing him an opportunity to present the program which was
formerly known as vocational technical education.
The purpose of Workforce Development Education is to prepare students for life-long
learning and to teach students skills that will allow them to move in the following directions:
?
Employment after graduating from high school
?
Attend a two-year college
?
Attend a four-year college
The vocational education program is offered in Grades 6-12. In Grades 9-12, there are more
than 3,000 students enrolled in the program. In Grades 6-8, there are 4,000 students enrolled in the
program. There are nine program areas within the schools with 55 course offerings.
One of the components of the vocational education program is work base learning, which
focuses on allowing students to demonstrate skills while taking a course. The students interact with
the business community to earn money and learn skills in a cooperative experience. Last year, there
were 289 students that earned over $800,000 in wages from employers in New Hanover County.
These students contributed $124,000 of revenue back into the community as a result of this
employment.
Another component of the program is apprenticeship which allows the student, the employer,
and the N. C. Department of Labor to collaborate to see how a student can be made employable after
leaving high school. Upon graduation, this student receives an Apprenticeship Certificate from the
N. C. Department of Labor and high school diploma.
Another component of the program is internship which allows a student to explore job
opportunities through receiving wages to determine if a career is suitable for that person.
All of the programs have a comprehensive training plan for the student that involves the
teacher, the employer, and parents of the students. The Vocational Competency Achievement
Tracking System provides the teacher with a course blue print outlining courses for each student, the
competencies within the course, and a test item bank. The teachers are allowed to perform a pre-
post test to determine the level of the student at the beginning of the program and the gain that has
occurred. The system serves as curriculum guide and resource for the teachers. The tests are State
generated, and the results are reviewed with the Board of Education, the Superintendent of Schools,
teachers, and other persons to determine the areas that need more focus and areas of high
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERSBOOK 26
REGULAR MEETING, MARCH 23, 1998PAGE 378
performance.
In the middle schools the following exploratory courses are offered to provide students with
an idea of their strongest interests and aptitudes:
?
Business, which focuses on key boarding and business skills.
?
Family Consumer Science, formerly known as Home Economics.
?
Technology Education, formerly known as industrial arts or shop.
Commissioner Howell asked if this type of guidance was provided for every student?
Mr. McRae advised that every student in the middle schools was assessed. There are two
employees on staff that work with the principals of the schools and work with the English Department
or another department to provide an assessment of each student. Once the assessment occurs, the
staff employees review the information with the students and parents. The assessment provides a
breakdown on the areas of strength, weaknesses, and interests as related to a student’s aptitude to
pursue the interest. The assessment process is a form of testing that is computer generated.
Mr. McRae explained and presented the following program areas offered in the Workforce
Development Education Program:
Business Education
Marketing Education
Allied Health Occupations Education
Family and Consumer Science Education
Trade and Industrial Education
Technology Education
Agriculture Education
Marine Studies
Career Development Education
Discussion followed on the number of students that complete the vocational programs. Mr.
McRae reported a student must complete Level I and Level II to complete the program, which is
usually 1,000 students. Approximately 66% of the students that have completed the vocational
program attend two or four year colleges. The program provides theory and the practical application
of skills.
In closing, Mr. McRae presented a notebook outlining the entire Workforce Development
Program in New Hanover County. He, again, stressed the importance of providing life-long learning
for students that will prepare them for a job, two-year college or four-year college after high school.
Chairman Caster reported on the cooperation between Cape Fear Community College and
New Hanover County Schools in offering these programs to students with available resources. He
expressed appreciation to Mr. McRae for the informative report.
COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS
Appointment of Darryl T. Langley to Serve on the Lower Cape Fear Water and Sewer
Authority
Chairman Caster reported there was one vacancy on the Lower Cape Fear Water and Sewer
Authority, and he advised that two applications had been received.
Chairman Caster opened the floor to receive nominations.
Vice Chairman Greer nominated Darryl Langley. Commissioner Birzenieks seconded the
nomination.
There being no further nominations, Chairman Caster declared the nominations closed.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERSBOOK 26
REGULAR MEETING, MARCH 23, 1998PAGE 379
Vote:
Upon vote, Darryl T. Langley was UNANIMOUSLY appointed to serve a three-year term
on the Lower Cape Fear Water and Sewer Authority. The term will expire May 13, 2001.
Reappointment of Lawrence Saunders to Serve on the Port, Waterway and Beach Commission
Chairman Caster reported there was one vacancy on the Port, Waterway and Beach
Commission, and he advised that two applications had been received with one of the applicants,
Lawrence Saunders, being eligible for reappointment.
Chairman Caster opened the floor to receive nominations.
Chairman Caster nominated Lawrence Saunders. Commissioner Birzenieks seconded the
nomination.
There being no further nominations, Chairman Caster declared the nominations closed.
Vote:
Upon vote, Lawrence Saunders was UNANIMOUSLY reappointed to serve a three-year term
on the Port, Waterway and Beach Commission. The term is to expire February 28, 2001.
MEETING CONVENED FROM REGULAR SESSION TO HOLD A MEETING OF THE
NEW HANOVER COUNTY WATER AND SEWER DISTRICT
Chairman Caster convened from Regular Session from 10:50 a.m. until 11:06 a.m. to hold
a regular meeting of the New Hanover County Water and Sewer District.
DISCUSSION AND APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEM 7, PROPERTY
EXCHANGE WITH LANDFALL ASSOCIATES REGARDING THE BIKE PATH
Chairman Caster advised that Attorney Joe Taylor was present and would like to discuss the
property exchange with Landfall Associates regarding the bike path.
Attorney Taylor reported two neighbors living behind the bike path were having a dispute
over a drainage issue. In order to resolve the matter, Landfall Associates agreed to relocate the
easement line at the back of the lots. As part of the settlement, it was assumed by the parties involved
that the privacy fence was the boundary line of the lots. This was not correct. The fence is located
on 653 square feet of property that has already been conveyed to New Hanover County.
Landfall Associates is requesting the County to deed the 653 square feet to Landfall
Associates. In turn, the property will be deeded to the two property owners to settle the dispute and
resolve the drainage problem. In exchange for the 653 square feet, the County will be given 1.1 acres
as shown on the map. The fence will not have to be removed, and the exchange of property will not
negatively impact the bike path.
Vice-Chairman Greer noted that Landfall Associates agreed to include the bike path when the
original plan of development was approved. At a later date, Landfall Associates requested the
County to maintain the property. The County has been performing maintenance of the property,
which has to be cleaned and mowed every two weeks. He advised that he was not interested in the
County accepting additional property; however, he would like for Landfall Associates to assume the
responsibility of maintenance on both sides of the bike path in exchange for the property.
Commissioner Howell expressed concern for the developer being forced to provide the bike
path when the original plan was approved; therefore, he would not be in favor of requiring Landfall
Associates to maintain the property.
Motion:
Vice-Chairman Greer MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Birzenieks to give Landfall
Associates the 653 square feet of property in exchange for maintenance of the property.
Assistant County Manager, Dave Weaver, asked the County Attorney if an agreement would
be needed for Landfall Associates to maintain the property.
County Attorney Copley advised a contract could be prepared to require Landfall Associates
to maintain the property.
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REGULAR MEETING, MARCH 23, 1998PAGE 380
Vice-Chairman Greer asked if a contract was necessary?
County Attorney Copley stated a contract should be drawn to protect the County in the
future.
Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS and the County Attorney was
authorized to prepare a contract:
Voting Aye:Commissioner Birzenieks
Commissioner Davis
Vice-Chairman Greer
Chairman Caster
Voting Nay: Commissioner Howell
ADDITIONAL ITEMS - COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Announcement of Meeting Scheduled with Residents of Avenel Regarding Drainage Problems
Chairman Caster announced he would be meeting with residents of Avenel at 7:00 P.M.
tonight on the Sun Porch at the New Hanover County Courthouse to discuss drainage problems in
the subdivision. He invited another Commissioner to attend, and he stated a report of the meeting
would be forwarded to the Board.
Discussion of Buffer next to the Powell Property on Carolina Beach Road
Chairman Caster spoke on visiting the site and the buffer between the Junction Pub and the
Powell property.
Vice-Chairman Greer stated if an opaque buffer was required when the rezoning was
approved, the ordinance should be enforced.
Commissioner Howell agreed and stated when the property was rezoned, it was not felt that
a pub would be located next door to Mr. Powell’s residence.
Consensus:
After further discussion, it was the consensus of the Board for staff to meet with Mr.
Powell and Mr. Saffo to see if the issue can be resolved. Staff was requested to report back to the
Board.
Reminder of North Carolina Association of County Commissioners District Meeting on April
21, 1998, in Fayetteville, North Carolina
Chairman Caster reminded the Board of the District Meeting of April 21, 1998, in the
Cumberland County Coliseum Complex Hospitality Room, Fayetteville, N. C. to discuss issues that
will be discussed during the short session of the legislature. He requested the Commissioners to
notify the Clerk to the Board, if they plan to attend.
Discussion for Development of Web Site for the Courts
Chairman Caster advised that a letter was received from Terry Gootee, Judicial District
Manager of Adult Probation and Parole, requesting MIS to assist with setting up a web page for the
Probation and Parole office in New Hanover County. He requested direction from the Board.
Consensus:
After discussion, it was the consensus of the Board to request the Deputy County
Manger to see if the MIS Department can be of assistance. If so, this item should be placed on the
April 7, 1998 agenda.
Discussion of Resolution Adopted by Bladen County Regarding the Possibility of the U. S.
Army Corps of Engineers Removing Locks and Dams from the Cape Fear River
Chairman Caster advised that a letter had been received from Mr. Herbert Johnson, Chairman
of the Bladen County Board of Commissioners, requesting the Board to adopt a resolution expressing
opposition to the possibility of the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers removing locks and dams from
the Cape Fear River. It is the opinion of the Bladen County Board of Commissioners that
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERSBOOK 26
REGULAR MEETING, MARCH 23, 1998PAGE 381
removal of the locks and dams could have a negative impact on the economy and the environment
of Southeastern North Carolina.
Consensus:
After discussion of needing more time to study and review the request, it was the
consensus of the Board to place this item on the April 7, 1998 agenda.
ADJOURNMENT
Motion:
Commissioner Birzenieks MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Greer to adjourn.
Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Chairman Caster adjourned the meeting at 11:45 A.M.
Respectfully submitted,
Lucie F. Harrell
Clerk to the Board