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1994-07-18 Regular Meeting "IIIl MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, JULY 18, 1994 PAGE 195 ASSEMBLY The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners met in Regular Session on Monday, July 18, 1994, at 9:00 A.M. in the Assembly Room of the New Hanover County Courthouse, 24 North Third street, Wilmington, North Carolina. e Members present were: commissioners Sandra Barone; William A. Caster; William E. Sisson, Jr.; Vice-Chairman E. L. Mathews, Jr.; County Manager, Allen O'Neal; County Attorney, Wanda M. Copley; and Clerk to the Board, Lucie F. Harrell. Chairman Robert G. Greer was absent due to his mother being scheduled for surgery. Vice-Chairman Mathews called the meeting to order and welcomed all persons present. INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG Reverend Bruce Miller, Pastor of The Lord's Church, gave the invocation. Vice-Chairman Mathews led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. NON-AGENDA ITEMS Vice-Chairman Mathews inquired as to whether anyone from the general public would like to present an item not listed on the Regular Agenda or comment on an item listed on the Consent Agenda. The following item was presented: e Parks Director, Neal Lewis, reported the County is assisting the winter Park Optimist Club of Wilmington with hosting the 1994 Eastern North Carolina Bambino Baseball Tournament (children ages 11-12) at Hugh MacRae Park. On behalf of the winter Park optimist Club, he presented a T-shirt to each County Commissioner and invited them to attend the semi-final games to be held this evening at 5:45 P.M. and on July 19, 1994. Vice-Chairman Mathews, on behalf of the Board, expressed appreciation to the winter Park Optimist Club of Wilmington for the T-shirts and for the effort given by this club to promote baseball for the youth of the County. commissioner Barone recognized the Mayor of Kure Beach, Betty Medlin, and welcomed her to the meeting. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA County Manager O'Neal presented a corrected schedule of payments on Consent Agenda #4 relative to the study of the quality of water in the major estuarine creeks as requested at the Staff Meeting on Thursday. commissioner Barone expressed appreciation to the County Manager for presenting the corrected figures. e commissioner Sisson commented on the contract with UNC~W and reported past studies of the estuarine creeks have been limited to coliform studies; however, this study will include pesticides and heavy metal as well as looking at the organisms that live in the silt at the bottom of the creek, which will greatly enhance identifying specific sources. of pollution. Motion: Commissioner Barone MOVED, SECONDED to approve the Consent Agenda as presented. CARRIED AS FOLLOWS: by Commissioner Sisson Upon vote, the MOTION Voting Aye: Commissioner Barone commissioner Caster commissioner Sisson Vice-Chairman Mathews I j / M~NUTES OF REGULAR MEETING; JULY 18, 1994 PAGE ,196 Absent: Chairman Greer CONSENT AGENDA Approval of Change in Computer Loan Program The Commissioners approved the following revision to the Computer Loan Program in order for employees to be eligible for computer upgrades: An employee will be eligible for additional computer purchases four years after previous purchase date. ,0 Adoption of Resolution Awarding Bid #94-0383 (contract #94-0383) to Gregory Poole Equipment Company for the Purchase of One (1) sanitary Landfill Compactor and Approval of Budget Amendment #95-02 The Commissioners approved the following action: (1) adopted a resolution awarding the bid to Gregory Poole Equipment Company for the purchase of one Sanitary Landfill Compactor by the Total Cost Method in the amount of $218,398 for the New Hanover County Landfill; (2) approved the sale of one 1986 Caterpillar 8l6B Compactor as a trade-in on the purchase of the new compactor; (3) approved the following Budget Amendment; and (4) authorized the Chairman to execute the contract documents. Budget Amendment #95-02 - Solid Waste Construction Project Debit Credit Solid Waste Construction proiect Transfer in from Fund 700 Capital Project Expense $22,000 $22,000 Environmental Manaqement - Landfill Sale of Fixed Asset Transfer to other funds (720) $22,000 o $22,000 Purpose: To establish budget to record the trade-in-value of a trash compactor that was originally purchased from Fund 700. The new compactor is being purchased from the Solid Waste Special obligation Bonds Construction Fund. I I A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXII, Page 15. Adoption of Resolution Requesting the Addition of Beresford Court South in Barton Oaks Subdivision to the State Highway system The Commissioners adopted a resolution requesting the addition of Beresford Court South in Barton Oaks Subdivision to the State Highway system. A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXII, Page 15. Approval of contract #95-0035 with the University of North Carolina at wilmington for continuation of a Water Quality Study of Major Estuarine Creeks of New Hanover County The Commissioners approved a contract with the University of North Carolina at wilmington for continuation of a water quality study of the major estuarine creeks in New Hanover County. The contract is for the second phase of a four-year study and funds have been budgeted in FY 1994-95. The County Manager was authorized to execute the contract documents. o A copy of the contract is'on file in the Legal Department."" Adoption of Resolution Accepting an Offer from Mr. Mike Alan Maxwell for Purchase of property Jointly owned by the City of wilmington and New Hanover county The Commissioners adopted a resolution accepting an offer from Mr. Mike Alan Maxwell for the following parcel of land jointly e e e : ~l;~(!J~~lf'i',i~~~\1:H'I":;'j,~,~i,~.k~~~;~~';~, . I' . "'1'. " """III i ~;.'~1.:r' ~,.': ,MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, JULY '18, 1994 PAGE 197 owned by the city of Wilmington and New Hanover County. The property has an ad valorem tax value as of 1989 of $1,017 and the offer will be duly advertised for upset bid. Parcel Number R0054-05-028-010.000 Address 603 Church street Amount of Offer $611 A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of the'minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXII, Page 15. Release of Value The Commissioners released the following certification penalties as this was the taxpayer's first offense; the vehicle had been listed on time in another county; or the vehicle was charged twice: Pearson, Alexander Wilson, Anthony Lynn Wynne, Sarah Willer $150 $100 $100 Acceptance of Tax Collection Reports Through June 30, 1994 The Commissioners accepted the following Tax Collection Reports through June 30, 1994, 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 XXII, .Page 15. Authorization for the Inspections Department to Provide Fire Code Enforcement for Xure Beach The Commissioners authorized the Chairman to execute an Interlocal Agreement with the Town of Kure Beach to allow the New Hanover County Inspections Department to provide Fire Code Enforcement for Kure Beach. The Chairman was authorized to execute the Interlocal Agreement, and the County will receive payment of $1,200 per year. A copy of the contract is on file in the Legal Department. Approval of Budget Transportation The Commissioners #94-0282 Amendment Human services approved the following Budget Amendment: #94-0282 - Human Services Transportation Debit Credit Human Services Transportation DOT 18-B-2 Vans (Federal) DOT Vans~18 (state) $13,208 2,831 Human. Services Transportation Motor Vehicles TDP Match $19,409 $ 3.,370 Purpose: To record one 1994 Dodge van received in FY 1994 from the FY 1994 Transportation Grant. Acceptance of Retired Senior Volunteer Program Action Grant for FY 1994-95 The Commissioners accepted the Retired Senior Volunteer Program Action Grant for FY 1994-95 in the amount of $47,542. The County's contribution is $42,871 which is budgeted in the RSVP's 1995 budget. This grant supports funding for 600 volunteers to work in 60 stations throughout the County. The County Manager was authorized to execute the grant documents. RECOGNITION OF NEW EMPLOYEES . County Manager O'Neal recognized the following new' C,ounty: employees: . 1 , ~ / I MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING',> JULY' 18, 1994 PAGE 198' Barbara McClure, Budget Department Michael smith, Inspections Department Bradley Lehman, Property Management Teresa Hewett, Finance Department Charles May, Library Lilly Robinson, Department of Aging Harold Kelly, Health Department Teresa Stark, Health Department 0 Nikki Todd, Health Department Susan Auten, Health Department cindy Reed, Department of Social Services Erica Jennings, Department of Social Services Raquel Cox, Department of Social Services Kara Chafin, Department of Social Services Cheryl Humphrey, Department of Social Services Pamela Sporrer, Department of Social Services Betty Bamforth, Department of Social Services Elizabeth Warren, Library Edwina Batson, Sheriff's Department Vice-Chairman Mathews, on behalf of the Board, welcomed the new employees to county government and wished them well in their new positions. PRESENTATION OF NEW HANOVER COUNTY EMPLOYEE SERVICE AWARDS County Manager O'Neal requested the following employees to step forward to receive service awards: Name Renee M. Peglow, MIS Rhonda F. Willett, MIS Pamela R. Harrell, Finance victoria H. Benn, Tax Department Duane T. Ward, Sheriff's Department Debora G. Cottle, Sheriff's Department Arena F. Everett, Social Services Myra M. Porter, Social Services Claire C. sintoni, Social Services Leigh A. Vaughn, Social Services Donna R. LeSane, Health Department Years of Service 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 o Frances S. Chamblee, Elections 10 John A. Terrell, III, Inspections Department 10 Jocelyn B. wilson, Social Services 10 Nancy R. Fowler, Engineering Department 15 Nancy M. Canada, Sheriff's Department 15 Patricia B. Wright, Environmental Management 15 Gary M. Hutson,> Sheriff's Department Barbara R. DeBose, Social Services 20 20 vice-Chairman Mathews, on behalf of the Board, appreciation to these county employees for their years of service to New Hanover County. expressed dedicated PRESENTATION OF DISTINGUISHED BUDGET PRESENTATION AWARD County Manager O'Neal announced the County has received notification from the Government Finance Officers Association of the united States and Canada that New Hanover county has qualified to receive the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for the third consecutive year. He complimented Budget Director, Cam Griffin, for receiving this honor and reported the vice-Chairman will present the award. o Vice-Chairman Mathews, on behalf of the Board, presented the plaque received by New Hanover county to Budget Director, Cam Griffin, and expressed appreciation to the entire Budget Department for receiving this outstanding award. l ':'; ~H!~ii f;~ni"'\\~~\'~~'~Jt:.'\:~)tt-~~ ~r1::t ~ ""Ill .:,. ;4;$,';"1~' i j-' ,..',.. MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, JULY 18, 1994 PAGE 199 e PRESENTATION OF "CERTIFICATE OF ACHIEVEMENT FOR EXCELLENCE IN FINANCIAL REPORTING" FOR FISCAL YEAR JUNE 30, 1993 County Manager O'Neal announced the County has received notification from the Government Finance Officers Association of the united states and Canada Awards certificates of Excellence that New Hanover County has complied with the rigorous standards to receive the "Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Fi.nancial Reporting" for the Fiscal Year ending June 30, 1993. This is the 13th consecutive year that New Hanover County has received this award. He complimented the Deputy County Manager, Andrew J. Atkinson (former Finance Director), and Deputy Finance Director, Julie Griffin, CPA for receiving this award. vice~Chairman Mathews, on behalf of the Board, presented the "Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting" to Deputy County Manager Atkinson and Deputy Finance Director, Griffin and congratulated them along with the employees of the Finance Department for receiving this outstanding accomplishment for the last 13 years. PRESENTATION OF NEW HANOVER COUNTY EMPLOYEE "CLASS ACT AWARD" TO CYNDI MEREDITH County Manager O'Neal reported on the many contributions made by Cyndi Meredith in the Maternity Clinic and Family Planning Education Program. Because of this outstanding performance, she has been selected to receive the New Hanover County Employee "Class Act Award". e Vice-Chairman Mathews, on behalf of the Board, presented the Class Act Award certificate, a $100 United states Savings Bond, and a cup to Ms. Meredith in recognition of excellence in job performance. He expressed appreciation to Ms. Meredith for the team effort and inspiration given all employees who work with her and reported the County is most fortunate to have employees of this caliber. Ms. Meredith expressed appreciation to her co-workers and stated without their help, dedication, and hard work, which has greatly inspired her, she would not be receiving this award. ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION SUPPORTING PERFORMANCE OF AN "ASSESSMENT OF COMMUNITY HEALTH NEEDS" BY NEW HANOVER REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER AND CAPE FEAR MEMORIAL HOSPITAL Commissioner Caster reported New Hanover Regional Medical Center and Cape Fear Memorial Hospital have agreed to jointly fund a full assessment of the community health needs as well as seek grant funds. As to concerns expressed by Commissioner sisson at the Staff Meeting on Thursday, Mr. Jim Hobbs, President of New Hanover Regional Medical Center, has assured him that all health care providers will be included in the study. e Motion: Commissioner Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Barone to adopt the resolution of support for the performance of a fu~l assessment of community health needs by New Hanover Regional Medical Center and Cape Fear Memorial Hospital with authorization for the Chairman to write a letter requesting the inclusion of all health care providers in the study. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS: Voting Aye: Commissioner Barone Commissioner Caster commissioner Sisson Vice-Chairman Mathews Absent: Chairman Greer A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXII, Page 15. ..... MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, JULY 18, 1994 PAGE 2()O AUTHORIZATION TO ESTABLISH AN EMS AUXILIARY Deputy County Manager, Andrew J. Atkinson, reported at a Work Session held on June 30, 1994, discussion was held on establishing an EMS Auxiliary in order to operate more efficiently and provide better. services to the citizens of New Hanover County. No additional funds are requested to establish the auxiliary and staff feels the following issues can be addressed more efficiently: -Job related injuries and non-job related injuries have resulted in long-term personnel shortages. o -More flexibility in scheduling personal leave for. staff. Many employees have reached the maximum vacation level and will lose vacation time. -The additional auxiliary staff would allow ambulances to have three staff members on some calls, which would provide better patient care. -Provide a pool of trained applicants for openings within the department. -Provide training and experience for auxiliary members. This training and experience would enable them to provide better care during their regular job, if required. -Save on the cost of overtime. Deputy County Manager Atkinson reported auxiliary members would be treated the same as regular EMS staff. They would have the same operating procedures, the same uniforms, and operate under the supervision of the EMS Department. The County would pay for required physicals, drug tests, uniforms, turn-out gear, personal protective equipment, and insurance at approximately $1,600 for each auxiliary member. Schedules would be established for members to work each month. o commissioner Barone commented on the money required for physicals and additional equipment and inquired as to whether this money was included in the EMS Budget for FY 1994-95, and if so, how much money would be required for FY 1995-96? Deputy County Manager Atkinson reported no specific money was budgeted for FY 1994-95 because funds are available for this additional expense in the current budget. The EMS Director plans to move slowly with establisl1ing the auxiliary; therefore, the budget for the EMS Department will be adequate to operate the auxiliary since a large number of members will not be hired at one time. commissioner Sisson commented on a statement by the EMS Director during a Work session relative to persons from Brunswick County desiring to serve on the EMS Auxiliary to augment their training program, and recommended approval of establishing the auxiliary with residents frOm New Hanover county being given the first option for membership before considering persons from surrounding counties. Many members of the Volunteer Fire. Departments and Rescue Squads already have the required physicals and drug tests, which will save money. Motion: Commissioner Sisson MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Barone to authorize establishment of an EMS Auxiliary contingent upon the residents of New Hanover county being given the first option for membership before considering persons from surrounding counties. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS: o voting Aye: Commissioner Barone Commissioner Caster commissioner Sisson Vice-Chairman Mathews ." . e e e '/'. Il ~':;-'''J:''"''''':f~~ ')'W\"~;"':' ~~'-~..". :;, "'IIIl r;.;.;;\oJ .' MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, JULY 18, 1994 PAGE 201 Absent: Chairman Greer APPOINTMENT OF VOTING DELEGATE TO THE ANNUAL CONFERENCE OF THE NORTH CAROLINA ASSOCIATION OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Vice-Chairman Mathews reported the Board must select the Voting Delegate for the Annual Conference of the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners to be held in Asheville, North Carolina, on August 25-28, 1994. Commissioner Barone nominated Vice-Chairman Mathews. nomination was seconded by Commissioner Caster. The Vote: Upon vote, Vice-Chairman Mathews was selected to serve as the voting Delegate for the Annual Conference of the N. C. Association of County Commissioners BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE: Voting Aye: Commissioner Barone Commissioner Caster commissioner sisson Vice-Chairman Mathews Absent: Chairman Greer MEETING RECESSED TO HOLD A REGULAR MEETING OF THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY WATER , SEWER DISTRICT Motion: Commissioner Barone MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Caster to convene from Regular Session to hold a meeting of the New Hanover County Water & Sewer District. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS: Voting Aye: Commissioner Barone Commissioner Caster commissioner Sisson Vice-Chairman Mathews Absent: Chairman Greer Vice-Chairman Mathews convened from Regular Session at 9:45 A.M. Motion: Commissioner Baron~ MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Caster to reconvene to Regular Session. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS: voting Aye: Commissioner Barone Commissioner Caster Commissioner Sisson Vice-Chairman Mathews Absent: Chairman Greer Vice-Chairman Mathews reconvened to Regular Session at 10:15 A.M. COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS Motion: Commissioner Barone commented on the Chairman being absent and MOVED to postpone appointments until August 8, 1994, when all members of the Board are present. THE MOTION FAILED DUE TO NOT RECEIVING A SECOND. Appointment of Richard L. Archilles, Alberto Sanchez Rodriquez and Reappointment of _ Aida Toplin to Serve on the Human Services Allocation Advisory Committee Vice-Chairman Mathews reported three vacancies need to be filled on the Human Services Allocation.Advisory Committee. Five ~ MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, JULY 18, 1994 . .' PAGE 202 applications have been received and Aida Toplin is eligible for reappointment and desires to be reappointed. Vice-Chairman Mathews opened the floor to receive nominations. commissioner sisson nominated Aida Toplin for reappointment. The nomination was seconded by Commissioner Caster. Vice-Chairman Mathews nominated Richard commissioner Barone seconded the nomination. L. Achilles. o commissioner Barone nominated Alberto Sanchez Rodriguez. The nomination was seconded by Vice-Chairman Mathews. commissioner Caster nominated Michael Zentmeyer. The nomination was seconded by Vice-Chairman Mathews. Vote: Vice-Chairman Mathews called for a vote on the reappoint of Aida Toplin to serve a three-year term on the Human Services Allocation Advisory Committee with the term to expire June 30, 1997. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS: Voting Aye: Commissioner Barone Commissioner Caster commissioner Sisson Vice-Chairman Mathews Absent: Chairman Greer Vote: Vice-Chairman Mathews called for a vote on the appointment of Richard L. Achilles to serve a three-year term on the Human Services Allocation Advisory Committee with the term to expire June 30, 1997. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS: Voting Aye: Commissioner Barone Commissioner Caster commissioner Sisson Vice-Chairman Mathews o Absent: Chairman Greer Vice-Chairman Mathews called for a vote on the appointment of Alberto Sanchez Rodriguez. Upon vote, only two votes were received. Vice-Chairman Mathews called for a vote on the appointment of Michael Zentmeyer. Upon vote, only two votes were received. Vice-Chairman Mathews reported since a majority vote was not received on the appointment of Alberto Sanchez Rodriguez or Michael Zentmeyer, he would recall the vote on these two nominations. Vote: Vice-Chairman Mathews called for a vote on the appointment Alberto Sanchez Rodriguez to serve a three-year term on the Human Services Allocation Advisory Committee with the term to expire June 30, 1997. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS: Voting Aye: Commissioner Barone Commissioner Caster Commissioner Sisson Vice-Chairman Mathews o Absent: Chairman Greer Appointment of John D. May to the Industrial Faci1iti,es and POllution Control Financing Authority Vice-Chairman Mathews reported an unexpired term needs to be filled on the Industrial Facilities and Pollution Control Financing Authority due to the death of Neal Hall. . One application has been received in the name of john'D.' May. . "l'\'?^.}f;:Vt.. ',,-.' -'1', """'lIIII :i}.;tJI' f'" .Of, ~ MINUTES OP REGULAR MEETING, JULY 18, 1994 PAGE 203 Motion: Commissioner Barone MOVED, to appoint John D. May to fill the the Industrial Facilities and Authority. The term will expire MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS: SECONDED by Commissioner Sisson unexpired term of Neal Hall on Pollution Control Financing May 22, 1997. Upon vote, the e voting Aye: Commissioner Barone Commissioner Caster commissioner Sisson Vice-Chairman Mathews Absent: Chairman Greer Reappointment of Edward V. Grace, Anne Hardaway, and William C. Morine to Serve on the Nursing Home Advisory Committee Vice-Chairman Mathews reported three vacancies exist on the Nursing Home Advisory Committee and three members are eligible for reappointment and desire to be reappointed. No other applications have been received. Motion: Commissioner Barone MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Sisson to reappoint Edward V. Grace, Anne Hardaway, and William C. Morine to serve three-year terms on the Nursing Home Advisory Committee with the terms to expire July 31, 1997. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS: Voting Aye: Commissioner Barone Commissioner Caster commissioner Sisson Voting Nay: Vice-Chairman Mathews e Absent: Chairman Greer Appointment of John E. Galardeand Reappointment of Charles R. Howell and Wesley o. Nixon to Serve on the New Hanover County Planning Board County Attorney Copley reported one applicant, Glen T. Ivey, is an elected official of the Kure Beach Town Council; therefore, the Commissioners must determine if Mr. Ivey is eligible to serve on the Planning Board as outlined in N.C.G.S. Chapter 128, which states that any person holding an elective office in State or local government can hold concurrently one other appointive office. Vice-Chairman Mathews asked Mr. Ivey if he serves on another appointed board or committee? Mr. Ivey reported he was appointed by the State to serve on the N. C. Keep America Beautiful Board in New Hanover County. county Attorney Copley reported, unfortunately, Mr. Ivey is not. eligible to be appointed to serve on the Planning Board. J e Vice-Chairman Mathews reported three vacancies exist on the Planning Board and all three members are eligible for reappointment, however, only Charles R. Howell and Wesley o. Nixon desire to be reappointed. Fifteen applications have been received but Mr. Ivey's application will have to be eliminated. He opened the floor to receive nominations. Motion: Commissioner Barone MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Sisson to reappoint Charles R. Howell and Wesley o. Nixon to serve three- year terms on the Planning Board to expire July 31, 1997. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS: Voting Aye: Commissioner Barone Commissioner Caster Commissioner Sisson Vice-Chairman Mathews ...4 MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, JULY 18, 1994 PAGE 204 Absent: Chairman Greer Vice-Chairman Mathews opened the floor to receive nominations for the remaining vacancy. commissioner Barone nominated James L. Quinn, III. The nomination DID NOT RECEIVE A SECOND. Vice-Chairman Mathews nominated John E. Galarde. nomination was seconded by Commissioner Caster. The o commissioner Sisson nominated Robert P. Hoffman. The nomination was seconded by Commissioner Barone. Vote: Vice-Chairman Mathews called for of John Galarde and Robert Hoffman receiving a majority vote. a vote on the appointment with neither nomination Commissioner Sisson stressed the need to maintain a balance on the Planning Board with professionals and reported with the persons just reappointed there will be three members serving on this board associated with the real estate industry; therefore, when re-voting on the nominations, this should be considered. commissioner Barone commented on Commissioner Sisson making this statement at previous meetings and expressed concern for the insinuation that members of the real estate industry do not make good members on the Planning Board. In her opinion, this is not true. commissioner Sisson repo~ted he is not insinuating these are bad people; however, he does feel a balance is needed on the Planning Board. o Vote: Vice-Chairman Mathews called for a vote on the appointment of John E. Galarde to serve a three-year term on the Planning Board to expire July 31, 1997. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS: " ~oting Aye: Commissioner Barone Commissioner Caster Vice-Chairman Mathews voting Nay: Commissioner Sisson Absent: Chairman Greer ADDITIONAL ITEMS - COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Acceptance of strategic Plan Vice-Chairman Mathews reported at the Work Session on July 14, 1994, he informed the CQunty Commissioners that he would move to accept the strategic Plan for New Hanover County. However, he would like for it to be understood that the Board is accepting the document, not agreeing to implement all of its recommendations. Motion: Vice-Chairman Mathews MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Caster to accept the Strategic Plan for New Hanover County. The floor was opened for discussion. o commissioner Barone asked if the motion is saying, thank you for the report, we will look into it and use it as a guideline, but we are not accepting all of the recommendations. Vice-Chairman Mathews stated this is correct. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS: Voting Aye: Commissioner Barone Commissioner Caster e e e ,,....-. ;''f' ""Ill .~. ~, ,~ ;;'1 MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, JULY 18, 1994 PAGE 205 commissioner sisson Vice-Chairman Mathews Absent: Chairman Greer Commissioner sisson reported by accepting the report, it should be used and not placed on a shelf. Vice-Chairman Mathews agreed and stated the document contains valuable information. The County is most appreciative of the time and effort given by the members of the strategic Planning Council in the preparation of the plan. Commissioner sisson commented on the various comments pertaining to Cape Fear Community College and the New Hanover County Schools working more closely together and recommended forwarding reports to the Cape Fear Community College Board of Trustees and New Hanover County Board of Education. commissioner Barone reported this is fine as long as board members do not get the impression that the Commissioners are in favor of every recommendation in the these County plan. Discussion of Consolidation of New Hanover county and t~e City of Wilmington Commissioner Caster reported on the numerous committees that recommended consolidating the governments of New Hanover County and the City of wilmington in the Strategic Plan. In his opinion, this matter should be re-visited because of the growth and changes that have occurred since the study performed in 1987. commissioner Barone requested postponing discussion on this item until all five County Commissioners are present. Commissioner Caster stressed the importance of proceeding with this issue and requested the County Manager to prepare the mechanisms that should be followed in pursuing a consolidation study. Also, the Commissioners may wish to consider using the group who served on the Strategic Planing Council as the persons who will study the consolidation issue since they are familiar with the many changes that have occurred in the County and have fully examined the needs of the County until the year 2000. commissioner sisson agreed with Commissioner Caster and stated consolidation should be re-studied, particularly with the proposed annexation by the city of Wilmington. In his opinion, the system of double taxation should not continue because of a lack of consolidation when the city will own most of the County. Since the City Council has not chosen to proceed with discussion of consolidation and the Strategic Plan recommends re-visiting consolidation, the Commissioners should be proactive rather than reactive on this important issue. Commissioner Barone, again, reiterated the importance of having the full Board present when discussing this matter and recommended holding a Work Session on the old Consolidation Plan before assigning a committee to prepare a study. County Manager O'Neal asked if the Board would like for consolidation to be presented as an agenda item for discussion with the preparation of steps to be followed in proceeding with another study, or would the Board like for this topic to be an additional item? Consensus: After discussion, it was the consensus of the Board for the County Manager to present the consolidation issue as a discussion item on the agenda for August 8, 1994., . Commissioner sisson requested the press inform the general public that the County and is news media to not ready to ....4 / I MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, JULY lS,! 1994 PAGE,2o.~ consolidate the two governments but would like to discuss this matter. In his opinion, the County has drastically changed within the past ten years. Status Report on Installation of Fire Hydrants in Subdivisions commissioner sisson reported the Chairman of the Fire Commission will discuss this matter with the Fire Inspections Committee and this issue will be addressed in the near future. Status Report on the Hiring of a Director for the Southeastern Center Commissioner sisson reported six final applicants will be selected tomorrow evening and interviews will be scheduled in mid- July. It is anticipated that a new director of the Southeastern Center will be hired by September. Report on Transportation Advisory Committee commissioner Barone, the .County's representative on the Transportation Advisory Committee (TAC), reported this committee met and voted unanimously to accept the Wilmington Urbanized Area Transportation Improvement Program for Fiscal Years 1995-1999. She informed the Commissioners that a final copy of the plan in a bright pink cover will be forwarded to each Commissioner with an explanation of three minor changes. Also, at the last meeting discussion was held on the environmental concerns of the proposed Northern Outer Loop. The consultant hired has determined that the best route cost wise and environmentally is a more southerly Northern Outer Loop. The TAC voted unanimously to accept this route. This project is already funded and is moving forward; therefore, it is imperative that the rights-of-way be saved. After discussion with Chairman Greer, County Manager O'Neal, and Planning Director Hayes, the Planning Department is in the process of preparing the necessary ordinances to save the rights-of-way and prohibit developers from building along this corridor because there is no other place to construct the road. Discussion was held on the membership of the TAC. Commissioner Sisson commented on the County now paying a proportionate share of funds for the TAC and inquired as to whether the committee would allow another County representative to serve on the committee? commissioner Barone reported the TAC membership is established by State Statute and cannot be increased. Discussion of Emergency Lighting for the Assembly Room in the New Hanover County Courthouse Vice-Chairman Mathews inquired as to whether there is an emergency lighting system in the Assembly Room of the New Hanover County Courthouse? County Manager O'Neal reported there is no emergency lighting in the Assembly Room; however, there is an emergency lighting system in the hallway, lobby outside the Assembly Room, and the stairway. The Director of Property Management is in the process of considering emergency lighting for the Assembly Room. Also, the Property Management Department is in the process of providing lighting for the flag pole and a free configuration of exterior night lighting for the entire Courthouse. Discussion of Construction Problems at the senior' Center commissioner Sisson commented on receiving calls about unfinished work at the Senior Center and stated after checking with the County Manager and County Attorney, staff is in the process of resolving this matter; therefore, if any other commissioners receive complaints, the calls can be referred to the County Manager. o o o e e 'e ""'Ill "M ;~ ,j ,-.' M~NUTES\OP REGULAR MEETING, JULY 18, 1994, PAGE 207: Assistant County Manager, Dave Weaver, reported the major problem is water running off of the concrete down' into the Senior Center. In order to correct this problem, a specially made grate must be received to divert the water. Once the grate is ordered and installed, hopefully this problem will be resolved. County Attorney Copley reported the County is addressing through litigation the concerns about Leader Construction Company relative to the Senior Center. ADDITIONAL ITEMS - COUNTY MANAGER Authorization for the safety Committee to Hold a Poster Contest on safety Awareness County Manager O'Neal reported on the activities of the Safety Committee and because of this committee's involvement, employees have become much more safety conscious. In order to create an additional awareness of safety among County employees, the Safety Committee would like to sponsor a Poster Contest on safety awareness and invite the County Commissioners to serve as judges in selecting the winner of the contest. commissioner Barone inquired as to the cost involved and the length of the contest? County Manager O'Neal reported the posters will be printed in the County Print Shop at a minimal fee, and the contest will begin within a few weeks and end on September 1, 1994. Ms. Toni Leeuwenburg of the Budget Department will coordinate the poster contest. Consensus: It was the consensus of the Board to authorize the Safety Committee to hold the Safety Awareness Poster Contest. Reception Tentatively Scheduled on August 17, 1994, to Meet and Welcome the New Superintendent of Schools and New President of cape Pear community college County Manager O'Neal ,reported on holding a reception to meet and welcome the new Superintendent of Schools and new President of Cape Fear Community College. The County Commissioners, Cape Fear Community College Board of Trustees, Board of Education, and appropriate administrative staff from each entity will be invited to attend the reception. Consensus: After discussion, it was the consensus of the Board to tentatively schedule a reception on Wednesday, August 17, 1994, at 5:30 P.M. in the Assembly Room located in the New Hanover County Courthouse. ' ADJOURNMENT Motion: Commissioner Sisson MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Barone to adjourn. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS: Voting Aye: Commissioner Barone Commissioner Caster commissioner Sisson Vice-Chairman Mathews Absent: Chairman Greer Vice-Chairman Mathews adjourned the meeting at 10:59 A.M. Respectfully submitted, ~~~~ Clerk to the Board ~