1994-05-16 Public Hearing for 1994-95 Budget
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-MINUTES OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR FY 1994-95 BUDGET
MAY 16, 1994
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ASSEMBLY
The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners held a Public
Hearing on May 16, 1994, at 7:00 P.M. in the Assembly Room of New
Hanover County Courthouse, 24 North Third street, Wilmington, North
Carolina, to receive public comments on the proposed FY 1994-95
Budget:
Members present were: Commissioners Sandra Barone; William A.
Caster; William E. sisson, Jr.; Vice-Chairman E. L. Mathews, Jr.;
Chairman Robert G. Greer; County Manager, Allen O'Neal; County
Attorney, Wanda M. Copley; and Clerk to the Board, Lucie F.
Harrell.
Chairman Greer welcomed everyone present and called the
meeting to order. He requested the agencies making presentations
to limit their remarks to ten minutes and members of the general
public to limit their remarks to three minutes.
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COMMENTS FROM THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
Director of Social Services, Wayne Morris, expressed
appreciation for approval of the three Social Worker positions for
the Foster Care Program and reported this budgetary process has
been the most satisfying and productive in his 22 years of
preparing budgets. Due to a review of DSS functions by a team
appointed by the County Manager, a reorganization has been
performed with the elimination of six supervisory positions and
four support positions. This action was accomplished through the
use of computers, which has allowed machines to handle paper
instead of people and has provided eight more direct line positions
in the field, which greatly assists the department in better
fulfilling the needs of our citizens.
The good news is that the AFDC budget has actually decreased
by approximately 5%, which is the first time in many years, and
Medicaid has increased only 8% compared to 25% last year and 20%
for the past five years.
Director Morris requested the commissioners to approve the
County Manager's recommended budget. The new staff positions
recommended are badly needed to assist DSS clients to be, removed
from the welfare role; help the elderly to remain at home instead
of being placed in nursing homes; and provide relief for the Foster.
Care Program.
Chairman Greer complimented Director Morris for
elimination of the six supervisory positions and adding direct
positions to better serve our citizens in need.
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commissioner Barone complimented Director Morris and' his staff
for the excellent job performed in administering and carrying out
the DSS programs even though she did not support the additional
positions for the Foster Care Program. She stressed the importance
of the DSS staff and foster parents 'mderstanding that she is most
appreciative of the fine work being done, but stated she cannot
support continued expansion of DSS programs.
COMMENTS FROM THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT
Mr. Mark A Veenstra, a member of the Health Department Budget
Committee, reported the Board of Health is satisfied with the
County Manager's recommended budget with one exception, deletion of
the requested Animal Control Officer position. The Commissioners
were requested to reconsider including this position in the FY
1994-95 Budget. As a public health agency, the Board of Health is
concerned about animal bites, the increase ih rabies, and the
continued growth of pets in New Hanover bounty. Since the State
enacted the "Dangerous Dog" law, a full time position has been
utilized to administer this legislation, which has reduced the
number of hours in the field. One additional Animal Control
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MINUTES OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR FY 1994-95 BUDGET
MAY 16, 1994
PAGE 94;
Officer will provide better control of the animals which should
reduce the number of animal bites, cut down on the number of
animals running loose in the County, and protect the citizens
against a possible rabies epidemic. This position should pay for
itself through an increase in the collection of tag fees, fines
imposed for the violation of the County ordinance, and a reduction
in overtime pay. The Commissioners were urged to reconsider
including this position in the FY 1994-95 Budget.
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commissioner sisson commented on the frequent calls received
about animal control and stated he is very much in support of
including the Animal Control Officer in the budget for the Health
Department.
Chairman Greer, on behalf of the Board, expressed appreciation
to Mr. Veenstra for an informative presentation.
COMMENTS FROM THE SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT
Sheriff McQueen concurred with the County Manager's
recommended budget and reported overall budget items decreased in
the Sheriff's Department with the exception of food in the Custody
Division, which increased approximately $5,000 due to inflation.,
Also, at the present time, no figure has been determined as to the
exact cost for accepting the city's dispatching system under the
911 Center.
commissioner Barone commented on receiving numerous calls
about dispatcher salaries and training being funded from the 911
Surcharge and requested Sheriff McQueen to explain how the $.50
surcharge funds are used.
Sheriff McQueen reported the 911 surcharge must be used to
purchase equipment, update the equipment, and operate the 911
Center. The surcharge is not used to pay salaries.
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County Manager O'Neal reported funds collected from the 911
Surcharge will be used entirely for the purchase of Computer Aided
Dispatch equipment for the next one and one-half years.
Chairman Greer reminded everyone of the expense incurred by
the County with assuming the 911 duties for the city ,and beach
communities and complimented the Sheriff's Department, for
accomplishing this. tasl<. with only a $100,000 outlay for the
purchase of equipment.
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Sheriff McQueen reported Carolina Beach opted not to come into
the 911 System; however, it is felt the 911 Center can be operated,
in an efficient manner with nine positions from the city. Once the
Computer.Aided Dispatch System is implemented, more positions may
be required.
Discussion was held on the process to Re used when hiring nine,
dispatchers from the city. Sheriff McQueen reported the city
dispatchers will be interviewed and screened. The nine persons
selected will be considered as new employees and will work a'
probationary period of six months. This will allow time for the
employees to adjust to 12-hour shifts and work with more
sophisticated equipment. Also, the employees will have time to
decide if they wish to continue to work in the 911 Center. The
transfer will occur on June '13, 1994, and the City. has. agreed to
pay the' salaries from June 13 through June 30,' 1994.' '.' ..
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Chairman Greer, on behalf of the Board, expressed appreciation
to Sheriff 'McQueen for the informative report.
COMMENTS FROM THE SOUTHEASTERN MENTAL ,HEALTH CENTER
. Ms. vicki Steele, Finance Director for thEr Southeastern
center,Jreported the budget request submitted Ys'the same~as' last'
year; 'liowever, , the 'number' of clients 'and demand"fcii:' services has
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MINUTES OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR FY 1994-95 BUDGET
MAY 16, 1994
PAGE 95
greatly increased. At the present time, the current staff cannot
serve the number of clients that need services. Growth has
occurred in the Child Care services Division because of the
Medicaid wavier, which has been most beneficial; however, any
profits derived from the Medicaid wavier must be used for child
services and cannot be used to provide other badly needed services
to adults.
Another area of concern is the fact that Southeastern
employees are paid 18-22% below the job market rate because of a
lack of funds. This has created vacancies and it is difficult to
fill these vacancies with the present rate of pay. Also, space has
become a critical need. If the County cannot allocate additional
funds, possibly space needs can be provided to relieve two and
three employees from sharing the same office. Also, vans are
needed to transport Southeastern clients. Several meetings have
been held with the County about transportation needs.
Unfortunately, the needs for the Southeastern Center are entirely
different from the manner in which the County's transportation
system is established; therefore, this system cannot be utilized.
Travel needs are sporadic, but these needs are very real and must
be provided at a costly rate.
commissioner Sisson requested Ms. Steele to share with the
Board some requests that were presented to the Southeastern
Center's Finance Committee. No action was taken by the Finance
Committee because of the non-availability of funds.
Ms. Steele reported staff requested the Finance Committee to
approve a 10% pay raise for Southeastern employees with 5%
effective July 1, 1994, and 5% in December contingent upon an
increase in third party reimbursements. This was not accepted by
the Finance Committee because of a lack of funds. The third party
reimbursements continue to increase in all areas, but the funds
received are not adequate to provide the services to the number of
clients in the three-county area. Also, the State is planning to
require more qualified clinicians, which will increase personnel
costs.
Commissioner sisson commented on the shortage of physicians
and reported without an increase in the number of physicians,
referrals from the school system, the Department of Social
Services, and follow-up treatment for persons released from The
Oaks cannot be provided by the Southeastern Center. Due to a lack
of funds, an additional physician cannot be hired, which negatively
impacts on reimbursements from Medicaid. At this time, the funding
shortfall is critical at the Southeastern Center.
commissioner Barone inquired as to the source of funding for
the entire budget?
Ms. Steele reported the Center operates on funds received from
the state, federal government, CBA grants, local funds, and first
and third party insurance reimbursements.
commissioner Barone asked if the Southeastern Center serves a
ciient in need of services without insurance?
Ms. Steele reported a client without insurance is provided
service. Approximately 50% of the clients served do not have any'
third party insurance coverage, but the client is r~quested to pay
an amount toward the treatment. It has been clinically proven that
a client will benefit more from the treatment if some form. of
payment is required. .
commissioner Caster inquired as
Southeastern center, the amount of
Brunswick and Pender Counties, and if
,compared to the number of clients?
to the total budget for the
contributions received from
the shares are proportiqna~~
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MINUTES OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR FY 1994-95 BUDGET
MAY 16, 1994
Ms. Steele responded the total budget is $12,000,000 with
contributions of $317,000 from Brunswick County and $116,000 from
Pender County. There are satellite centers located in Brunswick
and Pender Counties that provide services to the residents living
in each county. The only exception to this rule, is the
Detoxification Unit, which serves clients from all three counties.
Approximately 75% of the clients served are residents of New
Hanover County and are served by the Southeastern Center.
PAGE ,,96
commissioner Sisson reported the $12,000,000 budget figure
includes funds that pass through the Southeastern Center such as
the Willie M and Thomas S programs. These funds must be included
in the Southeaster Center's budget which distorts the amount of
funds available for the delivery of services in this area.
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Discussion was held on the amount of funds that pass through
the Southeastern Center for the Willie M and Thomas S programs.
Ms. Steele reported that $847,000 is appropriated for the Willie M
program and that $630,000 is appropriated for the Thomas S.
program. These funds can only be used to serve these two classes
of clients. A resolution was adopted by the Southeastern Board
last year specifically stating that the State must appropriate the
necessary funds to provide services for the Willie M and Thomas S
programs or the Southeastern Center will not provide the services.
Chairman Greer, on behalf of the Board, expressed appreciation
to Ms. Steele for the informative presentation.
COMMENTS FROM CAPE FEAR COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Mr. Jack Lee, Chairman of the Cape Fear Community College
Board of Trustees, expressed appreciation to the Commissioners for
past support of the College and recent support of the statewide and
local bond issues. He requested the Interim President, Dr. Raymond
Stone, ,to comment on the proposed budget.
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Dr. Stone urged the Commissioners to become lobbyist and use
their influence for passage of a bill in the General Assembly to
provide funds for the College's share of costs involved with
cleaning up the Airport Burn pit site, and for the allocation of
$2,500,000 to Cape Fear Community College from the unallocated
proceeds of the statewide bond is::;ue. The College is in need of
land, buildings, and additional faculty. Receiving funds from the
statewide bond issue will greatly assist the college in expanding
the school and becoming the best community college in North
Carolina.
As to the $350,000 budget request, most of these funds will be
used to assist the College with complying to the Americans
Disabilities Act. It is hoped that the Commissioners will continue
to support the College and provide funds for the necessary teachers
and equipment needed in the classrooms.
In summary, these are exciting times at Cape Fear Community
college, particularly since the people of New Hanover County and
the State of North Carolina have shown support for Cape Fear
Community College. The College is actively pursuing surrounding
land, and hopefully there will be some exciting news in the near
future.
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Vice-Chairman Mathews expressed appreciation to
the cooperative manner in which he has worked with
County commissioners and County staff.
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Dr. Stone for
the Board of
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COMMENTS FROM THE.REGISTER OF DEEDS ,
Registrar of Deeds, Mary Sue Dots, reported the County Manager
did not approve an additional Deputy Trainee position for the
Register of Deeds. Since 1985, recordings in the Register of Deeds
nave increased 76%' with 49% of this increase from 1991 to"1993'.
The'number'of employees has not increased. There is no equipment
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MINUTES OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR FY 1994-95 BUDGET
MAY 16, 1994
PAGE 97
or technology available to record legal documents; therefore, the
different types of documents must be reviewed by a person to
determine if they can be legally recorded and if the notary's
acknowledgement complies with the North Carolina General statutes.
The functions of the office are not discretionary, but mandatory by
the N. C. General Assembly. with-continued growth in New Hanover
County, an additional position is needed to provide the level of
services that have been rendered in the past. The Commissioners
were urged to approve the additional position requested in the FY
1994-95 Budget.
commissioner Barone inquired as to the cost of the new
position?
Ms. Oots reported the beginning salary would be $18,949
annually. This is the standard salary for a Deputy Trainee, which
requires two years of on-the-job training before an employee can
feel comfortable with the recording of legal documents.
County Manager O'Neal reported he did not recommend the
additional position in an effort to hold down costsdur:i;ng the
budget process; however, he has recommended an audi t of the
Register of Deeds Office to see if more automation is needed and if
some form of reorganization will help to alleviate the problems
being experienced. He concurred with Ms. Oots about being behind
because of the increased recordings and stated probably another
positions will be needed; however, he would like to perform an
audit and review of the department before committing to an
additional position.
Ms. Oots reported she, an Assistant, Administrative Assistant,
and Supervisor have been recording documents to keep from falling
further behind. A position was requested in FY 1993-94, but was
denied during the budget process. The office is now in desperate
need for a position, and the employees are extremely concerned
about the functions of the office being behind.
commissioner sisson asked Ms. Oots if the fees collected would
pay for the position? If the revenue generated from the Register
of Deeds office is placed in the general fund, and does she mind
performance of an audit?
Ms. Oots responded that all revenue generated goes directly
into the general fund and that recording fees collected would more
than pay for the requested position. As to an audit, she welcomes
any suggestions or recommendations that would improve the workflow
in the office.
BREAK
Chairman Greer called a break from 8:05 P.M. until 8:15 P.M.
COMMENTS FROM THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY SCHOOLS
Ms. Janice Cavenaugh, Chairman of the Board of Education,
expressed appreciation to the Commissioners for an opportunity to
~iscuss the budget for New Hanover County. She requested Interim
Superintendent, Dr. Marc Sosne, to discuss the upcoming budget.
Dr. Sosne expressed appreciation for the hours involved with
the budgetary process and for past s~pport of New Hanover County
Schools. The ~elationship between the Board of Education and Board
of County Commissioners is unique and very positive. For'the past
ten years, the Commissioners have shouldered the political and
financial burden of increasing the current expense budget 'at an
average of 9% per year. After discussion with the County M~nager,
it appears the schools will be offered a 3.77% increase in the
current expense budget for FY 1994-95. The County Manager
interprets, this increase as 6.8%; however, in his.figure money is
included for the repayment of bonds. The Board of Education does
not consider the bond repayment as an increase in the School Budget
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MINUTES OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR FY 1994-95 BUDGET
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PAGE,98
because this is an obligation of the County and does not allow for
flexibility in spending. The new dollars proposed for the School
System with flexibirity in spending are only 3.77% of the current
expense budget. No increase has been requested in the area of
Capital Outlay. The $2.6 million dollars allocated in the FY 1993-
94 budget for renovations and furniture 'have been used to equip 15
additional classrooms for 15 new groups coming into the school
system. On the current expense side (programs and personnel items)
the Board of Education is asking for 15% additional dollars to
provide choices for parents and students, such as year around
schools, magnet schools, and programs that build a stronger base of
community involvement in the New Hanover County Schools. In order
to continue these programs and implement a good maintenance
program, the Commissioners were requested to listen to the desires
of the citizens as shown with passage of the school bond issue and
increase taxes to fund these needs.
Chairman of the Board of Education, Ms. Janice Cavenaugh,
reported interested parents want to know if adequate funding will
be provided for continuing the magnet school program, the year
around school program, and the fiber optics program. The voters
approved the bond issue and a maintenance program needs to be
implemented in order to properly maintain the school buildings.
The Board .of Education has drastically cut the School Budget and
without additional funds from the County, these programs cannot be
maintained. The Commissioners were urged to make a commitment and
provide the funds requested in the school budget.
Chairman Greer reported the Board of Education is the agency
that is responsible for the use of County funds. In the proposed
FY 1994-95 Budget, funds allocated to New Hanover County Schools
have been increased by $1.2 million, which does not include the
$600,000 estimated for bond debt. He requested all persons present
to keep this in mind when discussing this funding request.
Commissioner Sisson reported he and Vice-Chairman Mathews have
held several discussions on the maintenance of the school
buildings. Since the Commissioners have no control over the. use of
funds, there is no guarantee that a. portion of these funds will be
used to maintain the scho6ls. Discussion has been held on the
possibility of the County's Property Management Department assuming
the responsibility for the maintenance of school buildings. If the
County decides to maintain the school buildings, funds would be
subtracted from the School Budget. This would eliminate the
management, and.operation of a non-educational issue for the Board
of, Education. Also, the Board of Education was requested to
furnish figures on the long-range cost of new schools programs, in
order for the Commissioners to make budget decisions. The'
Commissioners have not received an .answer to this request. If
communication.does not occur between ttie~wo boards,.an alternative
would be to allow for the Board of Education to prepare the entire
budget and automatic?lly increase taxes with the citizens,being
informed that the Board of Education is to be held accountable for
the tax increase.
County Manager O'Neal reported the county Staff and, School
Staff are in disagreement with the figures used to determine the
percentage of increase in the School Budget. From the County's
perspective, the increase in operating and capital outlay combined"
which is general fund money'and a portion of the 1/2' sales tax,
represents a 10.6% increase over the current fu'nding for the
schools.' The operating expense 'alone, which is general 'fund 'money',.
from 'the current' year to Fy'1994':'95 represents an increase of 6.2%:
If you add'the.two percentages together, the schools ate actually
7.ece~ 'iring' over :,a' 10% increase. . , . ...
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MINUTES OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR FY 1994-95 BUDGET
MAY 16, 1994
PAGE 99
COMMENTS FROM SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER, RACHEL FREEMAN
Ms. Rachel Freeman, a member of the Board of Education,
complimented commissioner sisson for his in-depth study and
interest in the school system. In her opinion, the underlying
mission of the Board of Education is to make decisions that are
right for aJ.l children attending New Hanover County Schools. As to
the County performing maintenance of school buildings, she would
recommended allowing time for the new 'Superintendent of Schools and
Board of Education to discuss this matter before the Commissioners
decide or move forward with this idea.
BUDGET REQUEST FROM THE LEGAL SERVICES OF THE LOWER CAPE FEAR
Mr. Marcus W. Williams, Deputy Executive Director of the Legal
Services of the Lower Cape Fear, reported this is a non-prof it
agency that provides legal services to low-income individuals and
indigents for a seven-county area. The number of eligible clients
served from New Hanover County constitutes 50% of the services
provided by this ag~ncy. wi th the increasing number of abused
children, domestic violence, and communicable diseases, services
have increased, and funds in the amount of $7,370 are needed to
purchase computer equipment so Legal Services can continue to
provide legal assistance. The Commissioners were urged to approve
the funding request.
BUDGET REQUEST FROM THE NEW HANOVER/OGDEN VOLUNTEER RESCUE SQUAD
Mr. Alan Tiller, representing the New Hanover/Ogden Volunteer
Rescue Squad, reported on the importance of public safety and
requested an additional $17,000 over the County Manager's
recommended budget request. In the past, the Rescue Squad has
worked with the county in accepting the County Manager's proposed
recommendations; however, due to increased maintenance, insurance
rates, and the need to provide a 5% raise to one employee who has
not received an increase in five years, additional funds are
needed. All ambulances and rescue vehicles are purchased with
donated funds. Also, vehicle and water rescue is being provided by
the New Hanover/Ogden Volunteer Rescue Squad which is not provided
by the County EMS Department. The Commissioners were urged to
approve the additional funds in order to continue the daily
operation of the squad.
COMMENTS FROM THE FOOD BANK OF COASTAL CAROLINA
Ms. Mary Lou Serene, Chairman of the Food Bank of Coastal
Carolina Board, reported this ,agency provides services to 48
agencies who need emergency food. six working committees have been
established to better provide services to the community. An
explanation was presented on the various programs provided by the
Food Bank and the monies raised through donations and award of
grant funds. During the past year, the Food Bank has undergone a
major reconstruction and hired a new Executive Director, Steven
Bagley, who has been trained and is doing an excellent job. Many
obstacles have been overcome and Mr. Bagley is working constantly
'to improve financial constraints. The Commissioners were urged to
provide the $15,000 as requested in order to feed persons in need
of food in New Hanover County.
COMMENTS FROM COMMUNITY PENALTIES PROGRAM
Ms. Debbie Hobbs, representing the Community Penalties
Program, reported this agency's job is to provide alternatives to
incarceration to sentencing judges. C\lrrently, it costs $1.49 per
day to supervise a person on regular probation; $5.65 per day for
intensive probation supervision; and $7.40 per day for electronic
house arrest supervision. The cost of incarceration of one ,inmate
per year is $22,000 at a minimum. During the past year, New
Hanover county saved approximately $638,000 through alternatives to
incarceration with those offenders paying over $153,000 in
restitution to their victims. In order to save the taxpayers money
and continue to provide alternatives to incarceration, the
Commissioners were urged to approve the budget request of $13,000.
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MAY 16," 1994
PAGE 100
Mr. H. G. Grohman, Chairman of the Communities Penalties
Board, reported the Community Penalties Program in New Hanover
County is now re~ognized as a model throughout the state of North
Carolina. The state Legislature has allocated $800,000 for
establishment of 40 new community penalties programs, which
indicates the success of the program. In order to assist with the
overcrowding of jails and continue to save the taxpayers money, the
Commissioners were urged to approve the $13,000 as requested.
COMMENTS FROM CHILD ADVOCACY COMMISSION
Ms. Amy Hamee, Executi ve Director of the child Advocacy
commission, expressed appreciation for the continued support of
this agency by the Board of County Commissioners. Child Advocacy
has fulfilled all of its objectives during the past year, and the
agency plans to apply for grant funds and hold fund raisers to
provide additional funds for the upcoming year. An explanation was
presented on the programs rendered by the Child Advocacy Commission
and emphasis was placed on the need for expansion of this program.
The. number of children needing services has greatly increased.
Appreciation was expressed for the $20,000 received last year, and
the Commissioners were urged to approve the $20,000 recommended for
FY 1994-95.
COMMENTS FROM THE CAPE FEAR LITERACY COUNCIL
Ms. Beth Panco, a member of the Cape Fear Literacy council,
reported 20% of the adults in New Hanover County cannot read. The
Council works with adults on a one-to-one basis and works with DSS
and New Hanover County Public schools to tutor students. A new
program entitled, "Books for Babies", has just been initiated to
locate pregnant mothers and educate them on the value of reading to
their children. Quite 'simply, the Cape Fear Literacy Council
offers a new life to these people. The Commissioners were thanked
for past support and urged to approve the funding recommended for
F;Y 1994-95. .
UNITED CEREBRAL PALSY DEVELOPMENTAL CENTER
Ms. Nancy Cates, Executive Director of the united Cerebral
Palsy Development Center, expressed appreciation to the
Commissioners for the past six years of funding support and urged
the Board to accept the County Manager's funding recommendation for
FY 1994-95. Through past funding, a family consultant position is
in.place which has provided supportive services to families with
pre-school children with developmental disabilities. Approximately
50 families are served by the agency, and through the funds
provided by the County, these children are now better able to
attend and learn in school. Also, the parents are better able to
cope and have the strength to become advocates for these children.,
COMMENTS FROM ELDERHAUS .
Ms. Linda Pearce, Executive Director of Elderhaus, expressed
appreciation to the .Commissioners for continued support of
Elderhaus and stated through these funds, the aging population of
New Hanover County is being better served.
COAST LINE CONVENTION CENTER
Mr. Steve Davenport, Executive Director of the Coast Line
Convention Center, reported with the funds received last year the
Coast Line Convention Center has increased the number of people
using the Center, and if these figures continue to increase, th~
Center will improve financially. The commissioners were urged to
approve the County Manager's funding recommendation. '
COMMENTS FROM THE COMMITTEE OF 100 , .
. Mr."Paul Boney, Chairman of the Committee of 100, expressed,
appreciation to Vice-Chairman Mathews for his service and active
participation on the Committee of 100 Board of Directors., He
reported on the efforts of this committee in .recruitiil<j new;
fndustry 'and economic develCipment' for New" Hanover' ''-county';
Appreciation .J was expressed for' the County Maria'gar" s funding'
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MINUTES OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR FY 1994-95 BUDGET
MAY 16, 1994
PAGE '101
recommendation and Mr. Rob Dunne, the new Executive Director of the
Committee of 100, was introduced to make a few remarks.
Mr. Dunne reported the Committee of 100 did receive less than
requested, but stated the Committee will cut back in expenses and
continue to operate at the excellent level of service as provided
in the past.
Chairman Greer, on behalf of the Board, welcomed Mr. Dunne to
New Hanover County.
COMMENTS FROM THE GENERAL PUBLIC
The following remarks were received from the general public on
the proposed FY 1994-95 County Budget:
Mr. Keith Farmer, a parent of two children attending New
Hanover County Schools, commented on the importance of expanded
programs, such as the year around school, and urged the
Commissioners to provide funding for these programs. In order to
prevent crime and poverty, New Hanover County must provide a
quality education to our children. The Commissioners were urged to
fund these programs and provide a high quality of education to
children attending New Hanover County Schools.
Dr. Heywood Bellamy, a former Superintendent of Schools,
reported during the school bond campaign, many citizens expressed
concern about school maintenance. He stated these citizens are
willing to pay for the provision .of a quality education and the
implementation of a good maintenance program; therefore, the
Commissioners should provide the necessary fund~ even if taxes have
to be raised.
Ms. Lori Stephenson, a member of the Board of Education and
the parent of two school children, reported parents are begging for
the provision of more year around schools in New Hanover County.
The Commissioners were urged to provide a choice for parents and
provide the necessary funds to continue the year around school
program.
Ms. Lea Kinsburg, a parent of two children in the public
schools, commented on the chart presented by Dr. Sosne and urged
the Commissioners to fund the school system as being done in other
urban counties throughout the State of North Carolina.
Mr. Stephen R. Yandle, a New Hanover County taxpayer with
children in the New Hanover County School System, commented on
being a member of the various school PTO's and stated these
organizations have raised funds to provide technical equipment,
safety equipment and other items that were not included in the
budget for schools. He urged the Commissioners to raise taxes if
necessary to provide sufficient school supplies in the classrooms
and a quality education for all children attending New Hanover
County Schools.
Ms. Bertie Clark, a parent and employee of the School System
for eight years, reported on working in 10-12 schools per week and
stated the Board of Education has indicated that new programs will
be cut if additional funds are not acquired. The taxpayers have
made a statement with passage of the bond issue and are willing to
pay additional taxes to provide a quality education to all children
attending schools in New Hanover County.
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Ms. Joanne Crowley commented on being embarrassed about never
attending a meeting of the Board of County Commissioners' or the
Board of Education and stated this year she will have children
leaving home to attend the public schools. She urged the
Commissioners to provide the necessary funds to provide year around
schools and stated the citizens of the New Hanover County are
willing to pay for a quality education. .
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M~NUTE~ OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR FY 1994~9S BUDGET
MAY 16, 1994
PAGE 102
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Mr. John Kolter, a retired citizen, reported on working for
passage of the bond issue and stated the senior citizens are very
concerned about maintenance of the schools. He urged the
Commissioners to provide the funds .necessary for implementation of
a proper maintenance program.
Chairman Greer closed the Public Hearing.
Vice-Chairman Mathews commented on safety, public health, poor
maintenance, and the lack of discipline in the schools and
expressed concern for the condition of restrooms facilities. He
reported that doors are off of hinges, there is no soap, no toilet
tissue or paper towels, and recommended the monitoring of
restrooms, if necessary, to be sure that children have clean and
safe restroom facilities.
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Chairman Greer expressed appreciation to the parents present
and commended them for expressing their concerns about the quality
of education in .New Hanover County. Emphasis was placed on the
fact that New Hanover County has only a certain amount of dollars
to be distributed among the many agencies that provide services to
our citizens. The Commissioners will consider the comments
received tonight and objectively weigh the funding requests from
all agencies including what is best for the children attending New
Hanover County Schools.
ADJOURNMENT .
Chairman Greer adjourned the meeting at 9:31 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
~~t~
Clerk to the Board
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