1998-12-21 Regular Meeting
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERSBOOK 26
REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 21, 1998PAGE 845
ASSEMBLY
The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners met in Regular Session on Monday,
December 21, 1998, at 9:00 a.m. in the New Hanover County Courthouse Assembly Room, 24 North
Third 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.
Chairman Caster called the meeting to order and welcomed everyone present.
INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Deputy County Manager, Andrew J. Atkinson, gave the invocation.
Commissioner Birzenieks led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
NON-AGENDA ITEMS
Chairman Caster asked if anyone from the public would like to present an item that was not
listed on the Regular Agenda or comment on an item that was listed on the Consent Agenda. The
following item was presented:
Discussion of City Annexation
Mr. Jack White, a concerned citizen, requested the Board to initiate a lawsuit against the City
of Wilmington based on the unconstitutional manner in which the City plans to carry out Phase I of
the Annexation Plan to be implemented January 31, 1999. He urged the Board to file an injunction
to stop the annexation so the County can seek an attorney to challenge the constitutionality of North
Carolina annexation laws.
Chairman Caster expressed appreciation to Mr. White for the presentation. No further action
was taken by the Board.
APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA
Commissioner Caster announced that Vice-Chairman Greer has requested removal of Consent
Agenda Item 3 for further discussion. Chairman Caster also requested the Board to include the
financing agreement for purchasing the 138 North Fourth Street property as part of the Consent
Agenda.
Motion:
Commissioner Birzenieks MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Howell to remove
Consent Agenda Item 3; add a resolution to the Consent Agenda to authorize the filing of an
application to the Local Government Commission for approval of the financing agreement for the
purchase of the 138 North Fourth Street property pursuant to NCGS 153A-165; and to approve the
remaining items on the Consent Agenda as presented. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
CONSENT AGENDA
Acceptance of Hazard Mitigation Grant Agreement for Preparation of the Hazard Mitigation
Plan
The Commissioners accepted a grant in the amount of $73,247 comprised of $53,858 in
federal funds and $19,389 in state funds for preparation of a Hazard Mitigation Plan. No funding
match is required by New Hanover County. The County Manager was authorized to sign the
agreement, and the Board approved the following budget amendment:
Budget Amendment #99-0071 - Planning Department
DebitCredit
Hazard Mitigation Project$53,858
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERSBOOK 26
REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 21, 1998PAGE 846
(Budget Amendment #99-0071 continued)
DebitCredit
Hazard Mitigation Project - State 19,389
Temporary Salaries$12,000
Contracted Services 38,000
Printing 3,000
Departmental Supplies 12,000
Training & Travel 4,000
Advertising 3,000
Postage 1,247
Purpose:
To budget grant for the Hazard Mitigation Plan.
Acceptance of Additional Home & Community Care Block Grant Funds for Aging Services
and Approval of Budget Amendments #99-0064 and #99-0065
The Commissioners accepted additional Community Care Block Grant funds in the amount
of $72,571 and additional State Senior Center funds in the amount of $13,245 for FY 1998-99. The
Commissioners approved the following budget amendments:
#99-0064 Aging/Various
Debit Credit
Transportation:
Transportation$25,619
Home Delivered Meals:
Nutrition-CCBG-Home Delivered$ 9,947
Congregate Meals:
Nutrition-CCBG-Congregate$ 6,550
In Home Aide:
Nutrition-CCBG-In Home Aide$20,000
Adult Day Care:
CCBG-Adult Day Care$10,455
Transportation:
Temporary Salaries$ 2,969
Contracted Services$22,650
Home-Delivered Meals:
Salaries and Wages$ 3,166
Temporary Salaries$ 3,340
Contracted Services-Meals$ 2,746
Departmental Supplies$ 695
Congregate Meals:
Salaries and Wages$ 3,850
Temporary Salaries$ 1,000
Contracted Services-Meals$ 1,700
In Home Aide:
In Home Aide$20,000
Adult Day Care:
Adult Day Care$10,455
Purpose:
To budget additional Home and Community Care Block Grant funds.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERSBOOK 26
REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 21, 1998PAGE 847
#99-0065 - Aging/Various
DebitCredit
Aging/Senior Center:
State Appropriation/Senior Center Funds$9,420
Aging/Transportation:
State Appropriation/Senior Center Funds$2,000
Home Delivered Meals:
State Appropriation/Senior Center Funds$1,000
Congregate Meals:
State Appropriation/Senior Center Funds$ 825
Aging/Senior Center:
Salaries and Wages$9,420
Aging/Transportation
Contracted Services$2,000
Home Delivered Meals:
Volunteer Mileage$1,000
Congregate Meals:
Contracted Services$ 825
Purpose:
To budget State Senior Center funds.
Authorization for the Cape Fear Museum to Apply for the Institute of Museum and Library
Services (IMLS) 50/50 Matching Conservation Project Support Grant
The Commissioners authorized the Cape Fear Museum to apply to the Institute of Museum
and Library Services (IMLS) for a 50/50 match Conservation Project grant in the amount of $15,500.
The total includes $7,750 of IMLS money matched by $7,750 of County funds that have already been
appropriated in the Museum’s operating budget. The County Manager was authorized to sign the
application, accept the grant if awarded, and approve the necessary budget amendment.
Acceptance of Tax Collection Reports Through November 30, 1998
The Commissioners accepted the following Tax Collection Reports through November 30
1998, as recommended by Patricia J. Raynor, 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 36.
Release of Values - Tax Department
The Commissioners granted Senior Citizen/Disability Exclusions to the following taxpayers.
Letters explaining the late filing are available upon request in the Tax Department.
Caulder, Marie Elizabeth$20,000
Collins, Frances F.$20,000
Delconte, Oneita$20,000
Farnsworth, Betty B.$20,000
Shipp, Coreen$17,200
Worthington, Reba G.$20,000
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERSBOOK 26
REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 21, 1998PAGE 848
Adoption of Resolution to Add Roads in Sentry Oaks Subdivision to the State Maintained
Secondary Road System
The Commissioners adopted a resolution to add roads in Sentry Oaks Subdivision to the State
Maintained Road System.
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contained in
Exhibit Book XXIV, Page 36.
Authorization for the New Hanover County Library to File the 1998 E-Z LSTA Grant
Application
The Commissioners authorized the Library to file the 1998 E-Z LSTA grant in the amount
of $9,635 to the State Library of North Carolina Library Services to purchase PC work stations in
order to provide public access to the Internet. If the grant is awarded, the County Manager was
authorized to accept the grant and approve the associated budget amendment.
Approval of Budget Amendment #99-0066 - Sheriff’s Department
The Commissioners approved the following budget amendment:
#99-0066 - Sheriff’s Department
DebitCredit
Automatic Finger Print System:
AFIS Grant$34,650
Transfer in from Federal Forfeited Property 2,100
Transfer in from General Fund 9,450
Telephone$ 4,800
Supplies 15,000
Equipment 26,400
Commissioners:
Appropriated Fund Balance$ 9,450
Non-Departmental:
Transfer to AFIS Grant$ 9,450
Federal Forfeited Property Capital Project:
Transfer to AFIS Grant$ 2,100
Capital Project Expense$ 2,100
Purpose:
Since the grant has been extended until June 30, 1999, a budget amendment was needed
to carry forward $37,800 from the last fiscal year and budget an additional $8,400 awarded for the
second year of funding.
Approval of Budget Amendment #99-0068 - Museum
The Commissioners approved the following budget amendment:
#99-0068- Cape Fear Museum
DebitCredit
Grassroots Science Grant$131,831
Salaries$45,750
FICA 3,500
Medical Insurance 7,077
Disability Insurance 82
Contracted Services 34,900
Maintenance & Repair-Equip 2,000
Printing 2,776
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERSBOOK 26
REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 21, 1998PAGE 849
(Budget Amendment #99-0068 continued)
Debit Credit
Supplies $18,224
Auto reimbursement 300
Travel, Meetings 5,700
Insurance 800
Flow Through 3,385
Capital Outlay 7,337
Purpose:
To budget additional Grassroots Science Grant received for FY 1998-99. The grant
provides funding for the Museum’s science program, including the monthly Saturday science
workshops.
Adoption of Resolution Authorizing the Filing of an Application with the North Carolina Local
Government Commission for Approval of the Financing Agreement for Acquiring the 138
North Fourth Street Property Pursuant to NCGS 153A-165
The Commissioners adopted a resolution authorizing the County Manager and Finance Officer
to act on behalf of the County of New Hanover in filing an application with the North Carolina Local
Government Commission for approval of the proposed lease purchase agreement for acquiring the
138 North Fourth Street Property.
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contained in
Exhibit Book XXIV, Page 36.
APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEM 3, ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION TO
AWARD RFP #99-0135 (CONTRACT #99-0135) to NATIONSBANK OF WILMINGTON,
NORTH CAROLINA FOR BANKING SERVICES
Vice-Chairman Greer requested to be recused from voting on this issue since he is a member
of the BB&T Board of Directors.
Motion:
Commissioner Birzenieks MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Howell to recuse Vice-
Chairman Greer from voting on this issue.
Motion:
Commissioner Birzenieks MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Howell to adopt a
resolution to award Contract #99-0135 to NationsBank of Wilmington, North Carolina to perform
banking services for New Hanover County effective February 1, 1999.
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contained in
Exhibit XXIV, Page 36.
A copy of the contract is on file in the Legal Department.
PRESENTATION OF CLASS ACT AWARD TO NORMAN W. HANCHEY
Chairman Caster, on behalf of the Board, presented a Class Act Award and $100 U. S.
Savings Bond to Mr. Wade Hanchey for sustained superior performance as an instrumentation
technician at the New Hanover County Waste-to-Energy Conversion Facility. Mr. Hanchey has an
unparalleled ability to troubleshoot complex computerized systems, and he has on many occasions
avoided lengthy boiler outrages by identifying and correcting errors before they cause further
problems. He has saved the County thousands of dollars in completing projects without requiring
outside assistance, and when his services are needed, Mr. Hanchey maintains a positive attitude at
all times, and he does not hesitate to spend the hours necessary to get the job done.
In closing, each member of the Board expressed appreciation to Mr. Hanchey for his
outstanding job performance.
A round of applause was given to Mr. Hanchey.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERSBOOK 26
REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 21, 1998PAGE 850
PRESENTATION OF NEW HANOVER COUNTY SERVICE AWARDS
County Manager O’Neal requested the following employees to step forward to receive service
awards:
Theodora A. Stenson, Social Services 5 years of service
Kimberly A. Carder, Social Services 5 years of service
Sina C. Vereen, Water/Sewer-Finance10 years of service
Amy Akin, Finance Department15 years of service
Ronald L. Currie, Health Department15 years of service
Cynthia Newton, Health Department15 years of service
Charlene Teachey, Finance Department15 years of service
Raymond L. Church, WASTEC15 years of service
Olivia T. Lai, Social Services15 years of service
Beverly B. Shareef, Library20 years of service
Chairman Caster, on behalf of the Board, presented service awards to each employee, and he
expressed appreciation to them for their years of dedicated service to New Hanover County.
A round of applause was given to the employees.
PRESENTATION OF FINANCIAL YEAR END REVIEW
Finance Director, Bruce Shell, presented the financial position of New Hanover County for
the fiscal year ended June 30, 1998. The following economic and demographic information was
presented:
The top eight employers are as follows:
New Hanover Regional Medical Center4,100 employees
New Hanover County Board of Education2,700 employees
General Electric2,500 employees
Corning1,540 employees
New Hanover County1,240 employees
Federal Paper Company1,155 employees
University of North Carolina at Wilmington1,085 employees
City of Wilmington 712 employees
The ten largest taxpayers are Corning, General Electric, Carolina Power & Light Company,
BellSouth, Hoechst Celanese, United Dominion Realty , Landfall Associates, Takeda, Occidental, and
Columbia Cape Fear.
The building activity from 1994-1998 was presented reflecting a continued growth pattern.
The non-residential construction increased with expansions by New Hanover Regional Medical
Center, PPD, the Cornelia Davis Nursing Home, and the Home Stay Hotel.
The Room Occupancy Tax has continued to grow in terms of tourism. There was a slight
decrease in 1998 compared to 1997. During Hurricane Bertha and Hurricane Fran every available
hotel room in the county was utilized during the off season, which caused a substantial increase.
New Hanover County retail sales continue to grow with over $2.8 billion dollars in 1998.
This reflects the strong economy in New Hanover County.
During the economic slow down across the country, the tax values in New Hanover County
have continued to grow. The tax rates have remained relatively small, and the Tax Department has
performed an outstanding job in collecting taxes at a 98% collection rate.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERSBOOK 26
REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 21, 1998PAGE 851
A chart was presented showing general fund revenues. The sales tax and property tax
represent 71% of revenues generated. Grants and intergovernmental activities represent 18.6% of
revenues generated.
A chart was presented showing general fund expenditures for FY 1997-98. More than one-
third of the County budget is allocated to the School System and Cape Fear Community College.
The general fund grew from $37.1 million to $43.8 million. This indicates that New Hanover
County is in a strong financial position.
The Environmental Management Fund and Water and Sewer District Fund are showing
growth in their fund balances, or retained earnings. This is an advantage to the County.
The debt as of June 30, 1998 is as follows:
General Fund
Bonded Debt$59,595,000
Installment Debt 13,010,505
Total$72,605,505
Water & Sewer Fund
Bonded Debt$28,888,685
Installment Debt 14,091,725
Total$42,980,410
Environmental Management Fund
Bonded Debt$20,936,504
Installment Debt 466,400
Total$21,402,904
General Fund
Approved Bond Issues
Schools$111,000,000
Cape Fear Community College$ 28,300,000
Airlie Gardens$ 10,500,000
Administration Building$ 8,060,000
138 North Fourth Street Property$ 1,100,000
Judicial Building$ 8,504,375
Library Renovation$ 2,570,000
Water and Sewer Fund
DOBO Water Systems$ 22,000,000
Middle Sound Collector$ 12,000,000
Wilmington-Hanby Beach$ 2,500,000
Vice-Chairman Greer stressed the importance of the Board understanding that projects
already in process, which total approximately $200,000,000, will greatly increase the County’s debt.
He said this fact should be considered when preparing the budget for FY 1999-2000.
Chairman Caster expressed appreciation to Finance Director Shell for an excellent report.
AWARD OF CONTRACT #99-0153 FOR THE JUDICIAL/COURTHOUSE EXPANSION
County Manager O’Neal advised that three architectural firms had responded to the proposals
submitted for the Judicial/Courthouse expansion project. The Selection Committee has reviewed the
proposals and heard a presentation from each firm. The Committee recommends award of the
contract to BMS Architects at a fee of $530,000 for complete architectural services. This fee
represents 8% of the construction cost at $6,625,000.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERSBOOK 26
REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 21, 1998PAGE 852
Vice-Chairman Greer asked if the 8% fee had been negotiated as indicated on Page 8 of the
contract.
Project Engineer, Craig Thompson, reported that discussion was held with the architect about
the percentage; however, there were other items included in the project such as inspection of the roof
and evaluating how to combine the two heating and cooling systems in the Judicial Building and
Courthouse. He said the average fee for a small project ranges from 10% to 13%.
Vice-Chairman Greer asked Mr. Thompson if the $6,625,000 was a realistic figure for
performing the improvements to the two structures.
Project Engineer Thompson responded that based on preliminary estimates, the number
appears to be realistic.
Deputy County Manager Atkinson explained that since the space study was performed, the
Sheriff has requested some type of security measure to provide one entrance to the Judicial Building.
The existing entrance to the building will have to be moved to provide a single entrance. This cost
was not included in the $6,625,000; therefore, the entrance project will be prepared as an alternate
contract, and the Board can decide on whether to install the security system.
After commenting on the need to protect the public and court personnel, Chairman Caster
recommended installing a better security measure to prevent some tragic incident from occurring in
the courts.
Motion:
Commissioner Birzenieks MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Howell to award
Contract #99-0153 to BMS Architects in the amount of $530,000 to perform complete architectural
services for the Judicial/Courthouse Expansion. The County Manager was authorized to execute the
contract documents. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
A copy of the contract is on file in the Legal Department.
SELECTION PROCESS FOR ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES FOR CONSTRUCTION OF
A NEW COUNTY ADMINISTRATION BUILDING
Deputy County Manager Atkinson requested the Board to form a Selection Committee
comprised of one County Commissioner, the County Manager, Deputy County Manger, Property
Management Director, Deputy County Attorney, IT Director, County Project Engineer; and one
department head to review proposals received from architects for construction of a new County
Administration Building and parking complex between Fourth and Fifth Streets on Chestnut Street.
Preliminary notification has been received from BellSouth stating the company is willing to negotiate
with the County by swapping the adjacent land for parking spaces in the parking complex. Since this
development, it is felt that an additional level should be added to the parking deck to provide 250
parking spaces instead of 200. Staff would like to seek Request for Qualifications from local
architectural firms prior to negotiations with BellSouth.
The new County Administration Building will be four floors, 10,000 square feet per floor with
an attached parking complex. The existing Annex Building will be razed and serve as ground space
for parking until a future date.
Chairman Caster stated during the staff meeting on Thursday, the Board discussed adding one
or two floors to the new County Administration Building. He asked if proceeding to select an
architectural firm at this time would have any negative impact on increasing the number of floors.
Deputy County Manager Atkinson responded there would he no problem with adding
additional floors. The architect can draw the additional floors as part of the design or prepare an
alternate to the plan.
Chairman Caster asked Commissioner Howell if he would consider serving on the Selection
Committee.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERSBOOK 26
REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 21, 1998PAGE 853
Commissioner Howell agreed to serve on the Selection Committee.
Motion:
Commissioner Birzenieks MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Greer to authorize
staff to seek a Request for Qualifications from local architectural firms contingent upon a review of
adding additional floors to the new County Administration Building and to establish a Selection
Committee comprised of Commissioner Howell, the County Manager, Deputy County Manager,
Property Management Director, Deputy County Attorney, IT Director, County Project Engineer, and
one department head to review the RFQ’s and recommend an architectural firm to the Board of
County Commissioners; and approve the Capital Project Ordinance and associated budget amendment
#99-22 contingent upon modifications to the contract. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
A copy of the Project Ordinance is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is
contained in Exhibit Book XXIV, Page 36.
Budget Amendment #99-22 - County Manager
DebitCredit
County Administration Building
Capital Project
Installment Financing (COPS) $8,060,000
Capital Project Expense $8,060,000
Purpose:
To establish the project budget according to the Capital Project Ordinance.
BREAK
Chairman Caster called a break from 9:50 a.m. until 10:05 a.m.
TERMINATION OF CONTRACT WITH VISION SOFTWARE
County Manager O’Neal reported that Vision Software had not met the conditions of the
contract with New Hanover County for the record keeping system in the Sheriff’s Department. He
advised that staff had worked diligently with Vision Software over the past year to make this a
successful project, but for various reasons the software would not function. He requested the Board
to consider terminating the contract with Vision Software.
Sheriff Joe McQueen informed the Board that he and IT Director Bill Clontz had worked with
Vision Software for months in getting the software installed. The contract was approved by the
Board of County Commissioners on February 2, 1998, and as of this date Vision Software has
notified the department that the software will not be installed until February 1999. He expressed
concern for the delay in the provision of the record keeping system, and he requested the Board to
terminate the contract with Vision Software.
Vice-Chairman Greer asked if Vision Software had been informed that termination of the
contract would be discussed today.
IT Director Bill Clontz responded that a letter was written to Vision Software about
terminating the contract, and he stated a call was received from the company on Thursday, December
17, 1998, to discuss the matter. The Sheriff returned the call, but he was not able to reach the person
that had called.
Commissioner Davis asked if the software was compatible.
IT Director Clontz advised that compatibility was not an issue. If the software had worked
as advertised, there would be no problem. After a review of the software package by Microsoft, the
company agreed with the County’s assessment of the problem. The report was forwarded to Vision
Software, and after reading the findings, Vision Software challenged the findings. Vision Software
sent the report back to Microsoft. A few days later, Microsoft responded to Vision Software
upholding the findings of the report.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERSBOOK 26
REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 21, 1998PAGE 854
Commissioner Davis commented on the software being free, and he asked how much the
County will have pay for the software program.
IT Director Clontz responded that preliminary discussion has been held with the same vendor
selected by the City of Wilmington. It appears that New Hanover County will be given favorable
consideration; however, at this time no dollar figure has been determined.
Motion:
After a discussion of the delay and manhours lost, Commissioner Birzenieks MOVED,
SECONDED by Commissioner Howell to terminate the contract with Vision Software based upon
non-performance of the contract. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER APPROVAL OF INSTALLMENT FINANCING FOR
THE ACQUISITION OF AIRLIE GARDENS
Chairman Caster opened the Public Hearing.
Finance Director, Bruce Shell, presented a resolution prepared by the bond attorney for First
Union National Bank authorizing New Hanover County to enter into a short-term installment
agreement with First Union National Bank in an amount not to exceed $12,500,000 to purchase Airlie
Gardens.
Chairman Caster opened the floor to receive public comments.
No comments were received.
Chairman Caster closed the Public Hearing.
Motion:
Commissioner Birzenieks MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Greer to adopt the
resolution to approve installment financing in an amount not to exceed $12,500,000 with First Union
National Bank to purchase Airlie Gardens. 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 36.
ACTION DEFERRED ON AMENDED CONTRACT #99-0172 BETWEEN THE NEW
HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION AND NEW HANOVER COUNTY
Vice-Chairman Greer reported that when the architect decided to place the stadium on the
site as proposed, it displaced two soccer and/or softballs fields that were being used by the New
Hanover County Parks Department. The use of the fields was negotiated through a lease between
the Board of Education and New Hanover County. During the process, discussion was held about
preparing an agreement similar to the Honor Park project, but all parties involved were not ready to
move forward with this idea. It was then decided to allow the Board of Education to amend the lease
with New Hanover County to move the location of the fields.
County Manager O’Neal advised that the amended lease would remain the same with the
exception of where the ballfields will be located.
Vice-Chairman Greer reported that Mr. Edward B. Higgins, Chairman of the Board of
Education, was not ready to deal with this issue. He suggested deferring action on this item to allow
the Board of County Commissioners and Board of Education to review the old lease and amended
lease before rendering a final decision.
Mr. Higgins agreed with Vice-Chairman Greer, and he informed the Board that he was not
part of the planning committee that prepared the lease. Deferring action on this matter will provide
an opportunity for everyone to review the issue.
Mr. Harry Tuchmayer, representing the Cape Fear Youth Soccer Board, explained that he was
glad to know that New Hanover County was going to maintain the lease as stated with no other
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERSBOOK 26
REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 21, 1998PAGE 855
changes. He said the Cape Fear Youth Soccer Board and other softball teams would be supportive
of the proposed amendment to the lease agreement.
Chairman Caster reported on having a breakfast meeting with Mr. Higgins, and he stated it
was agreed that the Board of Education and Board of County Commissioners should schedule a
meeting as soon as possible. He informed the Board that discussion was held about reconvening the
Committee for the Honor Park project to resolve many details that need to be addressed.
Mr. Higgins said the Board of Education was prepared to move forward with the Honor Park
project. He stated that Boney Architects would be making a presentation to the Board of County
Commissioners within the next month. He stressed the importance of beginning the clearing and
grading of the land in March 1999 so the high school and middle school could be completed by
August 2001.
Consensus:
It was the consensus of the Board to DEFER ACTION on this item as requested by
Chairman Higgins, direct the County Manager to place the Boney Architect presentation on an
agenda in January 1999, and schedule a joint meeting with the Board of Education as soon as
possible.
Commissioner Davis requested the County Manager to invite Dr. Eric McKeithan, President
of Cape Fear Community, to attend the joint meeting of the Board of Education and Board of County
Commissioners.
APPOINTMENT OF COMMISSIONERS TO SERVE ON VARIOUS BOARDS AND
COMMITTEES
Chairman Caster asked if each County Commissioner was satisfied with current appointments
to the various boards and committees.
Consensus:
After discussion, it was the consensus of the Board for the each County Commissioner
to remain on the same committees and boards with the exception of the Urban Planning and Growth
Ad Hoc Committee. Chairman Caster will serve on this committee instead of Vice-Chairman Greer.
APPOINTMENTS TO THE JUVENILE CRIME PREVENTION COUNCIL
Deputy County Manager, Andrew J. Atkinson, reported that the new Juvenile Justice Reform
bill recently signed by Governor Hunt calls for the creation of a Juvenile Crime Prevention Council
that will replace the existing CBA Youth Service Advisory Council. The new council must be in
place by January 1, 1999.
Deputy County Manager Atkinson recommended establishing a Juvenile Crime Prevention
Council in New Hanover County by using the current Criminal Justice Partnership Board to serve in
this capacity plus the appointment of Phyllis Roebuck as the Chief Court Counselor and appointment
of one person under age 21 from the local school system.
A lengthy discussion followed on having the members of the Criminal Justice Partnership
Board to serve as members of the Juvenile Crime Prevention Council. Deputy County Manager
Atkinson explained that having the same members to serve on both boards would provide a smoother
operation of the two groups. The Criminal Justice Partnership Board deals with adult issues;
however, a sub-committee had to be appointed to deal with juvenile issues. There are many members
on the Criminal Justice Partnership Board that would want to serve on both boards so adult and
juvenile crime issues can be addressed.
Vice-Chairman Greer asked how much New Hanover County would have to contribute in
matching funds to receive federal and state funding for operating the local Juvenile Crime Prevention
Council.
Deputy County Manager Atkinson responded that over the years many successful programs
have become part of the state funding budgeted to the Governor’s Crime Commission. If the New
Hanover County Juvenile Crime Prevention Council becomes a successful program, there will be
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERSBOOK 26
REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 21, 1998PAGE 856
an opportunity to acquire permanent state funding on an annual basis through the Governor’s Crime
Commission.
Motion:
After a lengthy discussion on the membership of the Council, Commissioner Howell
MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Birzenieks to establish the Juvenile Crime Council as
outlined in NCGS 147-33.30 and to appoint the members of Criminal Justice Partnership Board to
serve on the Juvenile Crime Council with appointment of Phyllis Roebuck as the Chief Court
Counselor and appointment of one member under age 21 from the local school system. The Court
Counselor and school representative under age 21 will serve as at-large members on the Criminal
Justice Partnership Board. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED FOUR TO ONE AS FOLLOWS:
Voting Aye:Commissioner Birzenieks
Commissioner Davis
Commissioner Howell
Chairman Caster
Voting Nay:Vice-Chairman Greer
Vice-Chairman Greer stated, for the record, he could not support establishing another
committee.
ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AN ADDITIONAL REVENUE BOND
AMOUNT FOR NEW HANOVER REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER
Chairman Caster advised that this item was discussed at length during the staff meeting. He
asked if any Commissioner would like to comment.
Commissioner Birzenieks expressed concern about the level of debt incurred by the New
Hanover Regional Medical Center, and he suggested requiring a feasibility study before approving
another bond issue for the hospital.
County Manager O’Neal advised that he would prepare a letter for the Chairman’s signature
to the Chairman of the New Hanover Regional Medical Center Board of Trustees to inform them
about the feasibility study requirement to avoid any future misunderstanding when considering
additional debt for the hospital.
After further discussion, the Board agreed for the County Manager to write a letter for the
Chairman’s signature.
Motion:
Commissioner Birzenieks MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Greer to adopt a
resolution to approve issuance of $130,000,000 in revenue bonds for New Hanover Regional Medical
Center to repay a loan incurred to acquire the assets of Columbia Cape Fear Memorial Hospital and
to finance approximately $18,700,000 in improvements to the facilities operated by the hospital.
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 36.
MEETING CONVENED FROM REGULAR SESSION TO HOLD A MEETING OF THE
NEW HANOVER COUNTY WATER AND SEWER DISTRICT
Chairman Caster convened from Regular Session at 10:55 a.m. to hold a meeting of the Water
and Sewer District.
Chairman Caster reconvened to Regular Session at 11:15 a.m.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERSBOOK 26
REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 21, 1998PAGE 857
COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS
Appointment of Barbara Bradshaw Kidd to Serve on the Cape Fear Coast Convention and
Visitors Bureau
Chairman Caster announced that one vacancy needed to be filled on the Cape Fear Coast
Convention and Visitors Bureau in the category of lodging. He advised that only one application has
been received in the name of Barbara Bradshaw Kidd.
Motion:
Commissioner Birzenieks MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Greer to appoint
Barbara Bradshaw Kidd as a representative of the lodging category to fill the unexpired term of Sadie
Ann Hood on the Cape Fear Coast Convention and Visitors Bureau. The term will expire May 31,
1999. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Appointments to the New Hanover County Board of Health
Chairman Caster announced that four vacancies needed to be filled on the Board of Health
in the following categories:
General Public Category - One Vacancy
Lana Woodbury Corbett
James P. Economou
John W. Rader
Leon John Mavrolas
Estelle Grady Whitted - eligible for reappointment
Optometrist Category - One Vacancy
Dr. Michael Goins - eligible for reappointment
Motion:
Vice-Chairman Greer MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Birzenieks to reappoint
Estelle Grady Whitted as a representative of the general public and reappoint Dr. Michael Goins as
the optometrist representative to serve three-year terms on the Board of Health. The terms will
expire December 31, 2001. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Physician - One Vacancy
Kathleen Jewell, M.D., M.P.H.
Philip Palmer Smith, Sr., M.D.
Veterinarian - One Vacancy
Melody C. Speck
Motion:
Vice-Chairman Greer MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Birzenieks to appoint Philip
Palmer Smith, Sr., M. D. as the physician representative and to appoint Melody C. Speck as the
veterinarian representative to serve three-year terms on the Board of Health. The terms will expire
December 31, 2001. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Appointment of Brandon Macsata to Serve on the Human Services Allocation Advisory
Committee
Chairman Caster announced that one vacancy needed to be filled on the Human Services
Allocation Advisory Committee. He reported that one application had been received in the name of
Brandon Macsata.
Motion:
Commissioner Birzenieks MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Greer to appoint
Brandon Macsata to serve a three-year term on the Human Services Allocation Advisory Committee.
The term will expire December 31, 2001. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Appointments to the Human Relations Commission
Chairman Caster advised that a letter had been received from the Human Relations
Commission requesting the reappointment of Reverend Joseph Z. Whitley for another three-year
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERSBOOK 26
REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 21, 1998PAGE 858
term. He informed the Board that Robert Philpott was eligible for reappointment and Jack Manock
had decided to resign. One application had been received in the name of Brenda Rohena.
Motion:
Commissioner Birzenieks MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Greer to reappoint
Reverend Joseph Z. Windley and Robert Philpott to serve three-year terms on the Human Relations
Commission with the terms to expire December 31, 2001, and to appoint Brenda Rohena to fill an
unexpired term to expire on December 31, 2000. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
ADDITIONAL ITEMS
Discussion of Salt Water Intrusion
After expressing concern for the increase of salt water intrusion in areas along the coast,
Commissioner Howell asked if the County should be reviewing some type of regulations to better
control this problem.
Vice-Chairman Greer responded that when these areas are served by water and sewer, the salt
water intrusion should decrease.
Commissioner Howell requested the Board to think about the problems.
Approval for Release of $35,000 from the Room Occupancy Tax to the Town of Kure Beach
to Replace Beach Grass and Fencing Damaged by Hurricane Bonnie
Assistant County Manager, Dave Weaver, advised that a letter had been received from the
Chairman of the Port, Waterway and Beach Commission requesting the Board to consider releasing
$35,000 from the Room Occupancy Tax to the Town of Kure Beach to replant beach grass and repair
sand fencing damaged by Hurricane Bonnie.
Motion:
After a brief discussion, Commissioner Howell MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman
Greer to approve the release not to exceed $35,000 from the Room Occupancy Tax funds to the
Town of Kure Beach on an actual cost basis for replanting beach grass and repairing the sand fencing
damaged by Hurricane Bonnie as recommended by the Port, Waterway and Beach Commission and
to request Kure Beach to contact RC&D about furnishing sea oats. Upon vote, the MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Discussion of Personal Watercraft
Chairman Caster commented on the letter received from Ms. Lisa Robertson regarding more
regulations on personal watercraft, and he requested direction from the Board.
Consensus:
After discussion of the current regulations and the responsibility of persons operating
personal watercraft, the Board decided that no further regulations were needed at this time.
Report on a Meeting Held to Discuss Consolidation
Chairman Caster advised that a group had been meeting to discuss consolidation of the City
and County governments. He requested each Commissioner to think about this issue and provide
input to home on how this item should be pursued.
ADJOURNMENT
Motion:
Commissioner Birzenieks MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Davis to adjourn.
Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Chairman Caster adjourned the meeting at 11:30 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Lucie F. Harrell
Clerk to the Board