1994-12-19 Regular Meeting
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~M~NUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 19, 1994
PAGE '4'1'9
ASSEMBLY
The New Hanover County Board of commissioners met in Regular
Session on Monday, December 19, 1994, at 9:00 A.M. in the Assembly
Room of the New Hanover County Courthouse, 24 North Third Street,
Wilmington, North Carolina.
Members present were: Commissioners 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 called the meeting to order and welcomed
everyone present.
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INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG
Reverend Bob Bardin, Pastor of st. Andrews Covenant
Presbyterian Church, gave the invocation.
commissioner Barone led the audience in the Pledge of
Allegiance to the Flag.
NON-AGENDA ITEMS
Chairman Greer 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 comments were received.
commissioner Caster, a resident of New Hanover County and a
voter, reported on a letter sent to the Wilmington Star-News from
a friend of his about a visit to New Hanover County that was
erroneously reported by the newspaper last year. In order for this
error to be corrected, he would like to read the following letter
received from his friend:
Dear Editor:
Last year just about this time I was making a pre-Christmas
visit to several world-wide sites. New Hanover County
happened to be one of these sites. Kind of like the beach
renourishment cycle of every three to four years, I like to
get out and around prior to Christmas to personally check upon
who has been naughty or nice.
After my visit to the Board of Commissioners meeting, your
newspaper erroneously reported that Commissioner Caster was
Santa Claus.
Tsk, tsk! I am disappointed in your reporting. Another
reporter simply did not get the story straight. Mr. Caster
could not HO, HO his way out of a wet paper bag. Besides
anyone who gave his wife a waffle iron and a scale ( when she
was pregnant) on their first Christmas just does not have the
Christmas spirit. (He also gave her a softball glove on one
Mother's Day).
Wasn't it a newspaper editor that wrote, "Yes, Virginia, there
is a Santa C.1aus?" You better correct this egregious error
before Christmas or there just might be a lump of coal (from
Venezuela) iil'your sock!
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Merry Christmas,
Santa Claus
Commissioner ~aster wished everyone a Merry Christmas!
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 19, 1994
PAGE 420
APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA
Chairman Greer requested removal of Items 2, 3-B, 6, and 7 for
further discussion.
Motion: Commissioner Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Sisson
to remove Items 2, 3-B, 6, and 7 and approve the remaining items on
the Consent Agenda. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
CONSENT AGENDA
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Approval of Minutes
The Commissioners approved the minutes of the Work Session
held on December 1, 1994, as presented by the Clerk to the Board.
Approval of Budget Amendment 95-0091 - Sheriff/Emergency Telephone
Fund
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
Debit
Credit
Sheriff/Emerqencv Telephone Fund
911 Surcharge
$496,000
Transfer to CAD Capital Project
$496,000
Purpose:
transfer
Project.
To budget the 911 Surcharge receipts for FY 1994-95 and
these funds to the Computer Aided Dispatch Capital
Approval of Budget Amendment #95-0093 - Project Assist - Health
Department
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
95-0093 Health/project Assist 0
Debit Credit
Health/Proiect Assist
Project Assist $1,000
Departmental Supplies $1,000
Purpose: To budget additional State funds for supplies needed in
Project Assist.
Approval of Budget Amendment 95-0094 - Child Health - Health
Department
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
95-0094 - Health/Child Health
Health/Child Health
Childhood Lead poisoning State Grant
Debit
Credit
$7,345
Salaries & Wages
Departmental Supplies
Capital Outlay
$2,680
$1,978
$2,687
Purpose: To budget State funding for additional salary and
supplies for childhood lead poisoning prevention.
Acceptance of EEOC Grant fQr FY 1994-95 - The Human Relations
Department
The Commissioners accepted the FY 1994-95 EEOC grant in the
amount of $58,250 for the Human Relations Department and authorized
the County Manager to execute the necessary grant documents.
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Authorization for the cape Fear Museum to Submit a Grant
Application to the Institute of Museum Services
The Commissioners authorized the cape Fear Museum to submit a
grant application to the Institute of Museum Services in the amount
of $112,500 for operating funds. The grant would be matched by the
funds already expended in the 1993-94 Fiscal Year Operating Budget.
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 19, 1994
PAGE 421
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No additional funds are needed. The grant funds will be used for
the following purposes: (1) to pay for the consultants and
temporary positions associated with accessioning, cataloguing,
researching and appraising the artifact collection in accordance
with the recommendation of the Conservation Assessment Program
reports; (2) for consultants and temporary positions to develop
teacher packets and printed materials for educational programs in
concert with the school curriculum; and (3) for evaluating the
long-term exhibition. The County Manager was authorized to execute
the necessary grant documents.
Release of Value - New Hanover County Tax Department
The Commissioners released the following late
penalties as the taxpayers certified they had mailed their
during the regular listing period:
listing
listings
American Geographic Data, Inc.
Pediatric Center
united Beach Vacations, Inc.
$89.49
$ 9.41
$17.09
The Commissioners released the following certification penalty
as this was the taxpayer's first offense:
Donnally, Brian Clifford
$100.00
Acceptance of Tax Collection Reports through November 30, 1994
The Commissioners accepted the following Tax Collection
Reports through November 30, 1994, as presented by the Collector of
Revenue:
New Hanover County Tax Collections
New Hanover County Fire District Tax Collections
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Copies of the reports are hereby incorporated as a part of the
minutes and are contained in Exhibit Book XXII, Page 25.
Acceptance of Voter Registration Grant for the Elections Department
and Approval of Budget Amendment '#95-0089
The Commissioners accepted the Voter Registration grant in the
amount of $9,500 to implement the National Voters Registration Act
and approved the following Budget Amendment. This is a one-time
grant, and at the request of Staff, the Commissioners waived the
25% contribution to other County agencies with the entire grant
award to be used by the Elections Department to purchase a
Kardveyer for storing master files. No County funds are required.
Commissioner Barone agreed with acceptance of the grant and
approval of the Budget Amendment, but requested the County Manager
to contact the Supervisor of Elections, Len Chamblee, to be sure
that a procedure is in place to avoid duplicate registrations. For
ex~mple, what type of calling mechanism is in place and what
happens if someone registers under their initials and then
registers under their full name? She requested that a report be
forwarded to the Commissioners.
Budget Amendment #95-0089 - Elections
Debit
Credit
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Elections
Voter Registration Grant
$9,500
Elections
Capital Outl'ay
,
$9,500
,Purpose: To establish a budget for the Voter Registration grant
'awarded to the Elections Department.
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,,:' Ad~p~~on of Re.solution of Intent to Close a PUblic Road, Jeanelle
Moore Blvd. (SR 1499)
, The Commissioners adopted a Resolution of Intent to close
Jeanelle Moore Blvd. (SR 1499) and schedule a Public Hearing on
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 19, 1994
PAGE 42 2
February 6, 1995, to consider the road closing.
A copy of the Resolution of Intent is hereby incorporated as
a part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXII, Page
25.
ACTION DEFERRED ON CONSENT AGENDA ITEM 2, FUNDING REQUEST SUBMITTED
BY KEYS, INC.
Chairman Greer expressed concern for appropriating funds
during the middle of the fiscal year and requested an explanation
as to why this request should be considered at this time?
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County Manager O'Neal reported Keys, Inc. was without an
Executive Director during last year's budget review by the Human
Services Allocation Advisory Committee; therefore, the budget
request was withdrawn. As to what would have been decided by the
Human Services Allocation Advisory Committee relative to the
funding request is not known; however, in his opinion, funding for
this program would have been recommended to the Board of County
commissioners. After considering the request in the amount of
$25,000, he felt funding the Adult Development Activities Sheltered
Workshop Program for six months in the amount of $12,500 would be
appropriate and would allow the 23 clients now being served to
continue to receive services until the next budget year.
Chairman Greer referenced a letter from the Budget Director on
Page 134 of the agenda packet and reported in FY 1992-93, the Human
Services Allocation Advisory Committee recommended funding in the
amount of $25,980 to assist the program with purchasing the
necessary equipment to implement a recycling program that should
help the program to become self-sufficient. Chairman Greer asked
if the recycling program had been successful, and if this was the
reason a funding request was not submitted last year?
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County Manager O'Neal reported he could not respond to this
question without additional information; however, he would be glad
to check into the matter.
commissioner Barone expressed concern for only 23 people being
served by the program, which is $3,000 per person per year, and
stated, in her opinion, this program should be privately funded.
After further discussion,
deferring action until further
sufficiency of the program.
commissioner Caster recommended
information is received on self-
Chairman Greer strongly objected to appointing a Human
Services Allocation Advisory Committee to review funding requests
for outside agencies each fiscal year, and then funding an agency
during the middle of the year without going before this committee.
County Manager O'Neal responded that Chairman Greer was
correct; however, the clients being served would be without funds
for the remainder of the fiscal year because the organization was
without an Executive Director and a budget request was not
submitted.
Consensus: After further discussion, it was the consensus of the
Board to defer action on this funding request until additional
information has been received relative to the functions of the
program and its capability of becoming self-sufficient.
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DISCUSSION OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEM 3-B, BUDGET AMENDMENT #95-0092 TO
BUDGET ADDITIONAL FUNDS FOR ADDITIONAL OFFICE SPACE FOR THE ADULT
PROBATION AND PAROLE OFFICE
Chairman Greer inquired as to whether the effective date of
the lease with Adult Probation and Parole is retro-active to March
1, 1994?
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 19, 1994
PAGE 423
Deputy County Manager, Andrew J. Atkinson, responded
effective date of the lease is March 1, 1995, instead of
1994, as incorrectly listed on the agenda cover sheet.
that the
March 1,
Motion:
approve
Consent
Chairman Greer MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Caster to
the following Budget Amendment listed as Item 3-B on the
Agenda. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
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Non-Departmental/outside Agencies/Human Services
Debit
Credit
Non-Departmental
Contingencies
$3,840
Outside Aqencies/Human Services
probation Monitoring Rent
$3,840
Purpose: To budget a $960 per month increase in rent for
additional office space for the Adult Probation and Parole office.
DISCUSSION OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEM 6, REVISED STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
FOR THE CAPE FEAR MUSEUM
Chairman Greer expressed concern for the revised Statement of
Purpose indicating that the purpose of the Cape Fear Museum is to
educate, the public, and stated, in his opinion, this wording should
be changed to reflect that the Museum is there for educational
purposes, but not to educate the public.
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commissioner Barone expressed concern for the words, "cultural
diversity" and stated if everyone continues to concentrate on
cultural diversity this country will end up like Bosnia and
Hl?r'zeg6vina. 'Everyone should concentrate on being "Americans"
first.
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commissioner Sisson disagreed with commissioner Barone's
remarks about cultural diversit~ and reported most people do not
understand how this country began. Just because Irish Americans or
other diverse cultures celebrate various events in their community
, does not mean the country will be divided. In his opinion, this is
the rich tapestry of cultures that has come together to create the
'fabric of this great country; therefore, there is nothing wrong
with the wording used in the statement of Purpose.
commissioner Barone agreed with people having a knowledge of
their backgrounds and the right to celebrate various holidays, but
emphasized the fact that we are Americans first and that constant
"talk about our differences will only divide people and ,create
racial problems. In her opinion to focus on cultural diversity is
a mistake because twenty years from now, people will be living in
their own cultures and forget that we are all Americans.
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Commissioner sisson reported before there was an America,
there were separate cultures that were existing and, in his
op'inion, there is nothing wrong with bringing out this fact.
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Vice-Chairman Mathews read the previous statement of Purpose
and inquired as to why the word, diversity, was added to the
statement and'why the Museum Board of Trustees felt the document
should be revised?
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I Museum Director, Janet Seapker, reported the previous
'statement of Purpose did cover everyone by inclusion, but this
<',,",statement has: been criticized by persons reviewing grant
applications for the Museum because the statement was being
. interpreted as, exclusive instead of inclusive; therefore, the
words, cultura:l diversity" were added to the statement. As to
,'~, concern for the purpose of the Museum being to educate the public,
'museums are truly educational facilities. At the Cape Fear Museum,
. remarks;" are always presented that refer to the Museum as an
, educational institution, not in the classroom setting, but through
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 19, 1994
PAGE 424
exhibits
culture.
the area
and programs that utilize the tangible objects of our
The history of the Cape Fear is based upon representing
as a unit inclusive of all cultures.
Consensus: After discussion, it was the consensus of the Board to
request the Museum Board of Directors to review the revised
statement of Purpose noting the concerns that have been expressed
by the Board of County Commissioners.
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DISCUSSION OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEM 7, RATIFICATION OF APPOINTMENTS
TO THE HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION
Chairman Greer expressed concern for the request including the
name of an applicant that is to be considered as a regular
appointment to the Human Relations commission.
Deputy County Manager, Andrew J. Atkinson, reported the agenda
item was presented incorrectly and requested ratification of only
one member, Carol Foltz as the YWCA representative. The other
names should be removed from the list.
Motion: Commissioner sisson MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman
Mathews to ratify the appointment of Carol Foltz as the YWCA
representative on the Human Relations Commission.
PRESENTATION OF EMPLOYEE SERVICE AWARDS
County Manager O'Neal requested the following persons to step
forward to receive service awards:
Name Years of Service
Kenneth R. Sholar - Health Department
William D. Shiver - Tax Department
William C. Clontz - MIS
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Chairman Greer, on behalf of the Board,
to each County employee for their years
County and presented them service awards.
expressed appreciation
service to New Hanover
RESOLUTION PRESENTED TO SAM BURGESS FOR DIRECTING A RECORD BREAKING
COUNTY GOVERNMENT UNITED WAY PROGRAM
Chairman Greer, on behalf of the Board, read and presented a
resolution to recognize Sam Burgess for his exemplary service and
leadership of the New Hanover County Government United Way Campaign
for 1994.
RESOLUTION PRESENTED TO JANET SEAPKER, DIRECTOR OF THE CAPE FEAR
MUSEUM, FOR RECEIVING THE YWCA'S CAPE FEAR WOMEN OF ACHIEVEMENT
AWARD FOR GOVERNMENT
Chairman Greer read and presented a resolution to recognize
Ms. Janet K. Seapker, Director of the Cape Fear Museum, in honor of
being selected to receive the YWCA Cape Fear Women of Achievement
Award for Government.
AUTHORIZATION TO PROCEED WITH REQUESTING PROPOSALS FROM GROUNDWATER
CONSULTANTS TO STUDY THE COUNTY'S GROUNDWATER
Mr. Hank Lyon, Chairman of the Groundwater Task Force,
reported after months of study, the New Hanover County Groundwater
Task Force had reached a consensus regarding the need to conduct a
groundwater study for the purpose of groundwater. resource
characterization. At the December 1, 1994, meeting of the Task
Force it was the consensus of the Task Force to recommend that the
County Commissioners proceed with requesting proposals for the
performance of a Groundwater Study.
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The following Scope of Work was presented:
The purpose of the ground water evaluation in the north and
central portion of New Hanover County is to define the variables
needed to predict the quantity of usable groundwater available for
withdrawal in that area. Decision makers need the following
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 19, 1994
PAGE 425
information to evaluate the feasibility of such a well-field: (1)
a reasonable estimate of the quantity of groundwater that can be
safely withdrawn from the study area without permanently reducing
available resources, including sinkhole collapse, or causing water
quality to diminish; (2) a characterization of the existing water
quality in the production zones of the Castle Hayne and Pee Dee
units; and (3) scientific and land use data needed to input into
the Well-head Protection Area model.
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Work Elements:
1. within the study area, select up to five study sites that
can best provide the information described above.
2. Drill a stratigraphic borehole to a maximum depth of 200
feet at each site to define the lithologic and hydrologic
units.
3. Conduct hydraulic testing to define the characteristics
of each production zone to include leakage, recharge,
transmissivity, and storativity. This should include an
evaluation of the capacity of the unconfined aquifer to
recharge the semi-confined Castle Hayne unit and also the
capacity of the semi-confined Castle Hayne unit to
recharge the confined Pee Dee unit.
4. Characterize the water quality in each production unit.
5. Perform appropriate modeling to predict a safe yield,
presumably using MODFLOW, and an appropriate model to
predict saltwater intrusion.
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6.
Develop a well-head protection plan to protect the
groundwater resources within the well-field area.
7. Design a well-field to meet the water demands for the
project area to the year 2020.
8. Prepare a report of findings that is understandable to
its users.
Coordination:
Specific well-field planning will be coordinated with the New
Hanover County Planning Department and the selected professional
engineer to determine the feasibility of selected sites,
distribution plans, proposed land uses, and otherwise unusable
area.
Time of Completion:
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Phase I shall be an evaluation of all existing information,
with a report defining an area of investigation. The model matrix
shall be ,established based on preliminary information gathered from
New'Hanover County, the N. C. Division of Environmental Management
(NCDEM), the Division of Water Resources and the U. S. Geological
Survey. A letter report shall be submitted to the County for
review before beginning Phase II. The time of completion for Phase
I is 90 days.
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Phase II ~ill'be a field investigation to evaluate the Castle ~ayne
and' Pee Dee Aquifers in the area of investigation. Prior to
construction, well construction permits will be obtained from the
N. C. Division of Environmental Management. Water samples will be
collected' to det'ermine characteristics. The four-inch diameter
wells will be sampled for chlorides, fluorides, manganese, iron,
color, :' turbidity, Ph, semi-volatile organics, total dissolved
solids ,and -hydrogen sulfides. All field testing shall be completed
wifJ:lin j,80days.
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 19, 1994
PAGE 426
Phase III, using the coefficients and water quality data collected
in Phase II, will be the formation of a development and management
plan. A strategy of groundwater development shall include
necessary computer modeling relative to well spacing, recharge
conditions, aquifer interdependence, and water quality projections.
Specific model application shall include MODFLOW to determine
hydrogeologic relationships and SWGUAM to determine the fate of the
fresh-water salt-water interface. A management plan shall be based
on all of the factors modeled; the water resource needs of New
Hanover County, wastewater management, conjunctive use and well-
head protection. A discussion of possible engineered solutions to
limitations such as recharge, salt-water intrusion, water quality
problems, well maintenance, and seasonal demand/supply fluctuations
will be included. Well~head protection and capacity use control
management of the groundwater sources of New Hanover County shall
be investigated as an option for the County. This analysis should
be completed in 90 days.
In summary, the Task Force would like to request the Board of
County Commissioners to proceed with requesting proposals for
performance of a groundwater study.
Chairman Greer inquired as to the cost of the proposed
groundwater study?
Mr. Lyon reported approximately $120,000, which is much less
than the U. S. Geological Survey estimate at $500,000 a few years
ago.
Motion: After discussion of the Task Force working for one and
one-half years and the need to identify the quality of groundwater
in New Hanover County, Vice-Chairman Mathews MOVED, SECONDED by
commissioner Sisson to authorize Staff to proceed with a request
for proposals for performance of a Groundwater Study in New Hanover
County. The floor was opened for discussion.
Chairman Greer inquired as to how the study will be funded and
if this should item should be included in the motion?
Vice-Chairman Mathews stressed the importance of performing
the Groundwater Study and stated, in his opinion, funds will have
to be found for this project. He inquired as to whether grant
funds are available for a study of this nature?
Assistant County Manager, Dave Weaver, reported
are presently available; however, the City at
interested in funding a portion of the study.
no grant funds
one time was
Commissioner Sisson requested Vice-Chairman Mathews to amend
the motion to state the study will not exceed $120,000.
County Manager O'Neal commented on funding and recommended
amending the motion to request the City to participate in funding
the study. Also, the funds should come from the Water &.Sewer
District with a Budget Amendment prepared to allocate the funds for
the project, or the Board may wish to wait and budget the project
in the. next budget cycle.
city Councilman, Hamilton E. Hicks, Jr., a member of the New
Hanover County Groundwater Task Force Committee, reported the city
is very supportive of this effort. As a member of the Task Force,
he is quite concerned about the future safety of the surface water
that is coming down the river because of the development occurring
upstream with industry. Any type of major upset could hamper the
safety of the water; therefore, the study is needed and should be
performed as soon as possible. In his opinion, the city and county
should jointly support the study, and he feels the City will do its
fair part.
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 19, 1994
PAGE 427
Chairman Greer inquired as to whether this statement should be
considered a joint effort between the City and County?
Councilman Hicks concurred with a joint effort and stated the
Task Force is the responsibility of the County Commissioners;
therefore, the County should take the lead role. The city should be
willing to participate in whatever manner is determined to be
necessary to achieve this study.
Chairman Greer recommended that the MOTION BE AMENDED to
include the City's participation.
Amended Motion: Vice-Chairman Mathews AMENDED THE MOTION, SECONDED
by Commissioner Sisson to authorize Staff to proceed with a request
for proposals to hire a firm to perform a Groundwater Study in New
Hanover County and work jointly with the city of Wilmington to find
funding resources for the study not to exceed $120,000. This
action is to be recorded in the minutes of the regular meeting of
the New Hanover County Water & Sewer District to be held on
.December 19, 1994, since District funds will be involved. Upon
vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Commissioner Barone commented on the hard work and effort
given by the members of the New Hanover County Groundwater Task
.,Force and requested each member to stand.
,
A round of applause was given in appreciation for these
efforts.
commissioner Sisson commented on an error in the agenda packet
and reported he was listed as an at-large member of the Task Force
instead of a County Commissioner.
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commissioner Barone reported this was not an error because she
was appointed to serve on the Task Force as a County Commissioner
representative. When Commissioner Sisson expressed a desire to
serve on to the Task Force, Commissioner Caster appointed
commissioner Sisson to serve in the at-large category.
commissioner Sisson reported, for the record, he stands
corrected.
PRESENTATION OF ANNUAL REPORT BY THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY NURSING
HOME COMMUNITY ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Mr. Edward V. Grace, Chairman of the New Hanover County
Nursing Home Community Advisory Committee presented the Annual
Report on the activities of the Nursing Home Community Advisory
Committee.
The following topics were presented:
There are five Nursing Homes with 549 beds visited by the
Nursing Home community Advisory Committee as mandated on a
quarterly basis. In November, a single 100 bed facility was opened
to bring the total to six nursing facilities in New Hanover county
with a total of 649 beds. All of these facilities are served by
the Nursing Home Community Advisory Committee. The Committee
focused on the quarterly visits and the sharing of information to
insure compliance to the patient Bill of Rights as defined and
established in the North Carolina General Statutes. The shortage
of Committee members during the past year restricted many
educational efforts. with the addition of two committee members at
the end of the year, the Committee was able to expand off icial
visits to bi-monthly. '
The following strengths were found through Committee visits:
A. The facilities were able to correct long-term appearance
questions.
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 19, 1994
PAGE 42 8
B. Resident programs have become more active.
C.
Administrator
responses.
resulted
in
positive
changes
have
D. visitors have a positive impact on the patients and
should occur more frequently.
E.
New facilities and personnel are willing to improve
current operations.
The following weaknesses were found through committee visits:
A. A general lack of visitors at facilities.
B. The need to have more volunteers to serve on the New
Hanover County Nursing Home Community Advisory Committee.
C. The inability of facilities to keep staffing at
satisfactory levels.
D. Even with improved facilities, the workload presented
,housekeeping deficiencies.
E. A lack of training for both paid staff and volunteers at
the facilities.
The Nursing Home Advisory Committee received excellent support
from the Ombudsman. Program of the Cape Fear Council of Governments,
Area Agency on Aging, and Region o. without this support, this
committee would have a difficult time accomplishing its mandate.
Discussion was held on the need to recruit volunteers to serve
on the Nursing Home Community Advisory Committee. Further
discussion was held on the importance of at least six weeks of
training for new members to enable them to enforce the Patient Bill
of Rights.
vice-Chairman Mathews inquired as to whether the new home has
been opened?
Mr. Grace reported the new nursing home is called Liberty
Commons and is located on Racine Drive. It is not fully
operational, but patients are being accepted each day. By the end
of February, 1995, an eighth member will be needed to serve on the
Nursing Home Community Advisory Committee.
Chairman Greer, on behalf of the Board, expressed appreciation
to Mr. Grace and the members of the Nursing Home Community Advisory
Committee for the report and the time given to serve on this
Committee.
STATUS REPORT ON THE SOUTHEASTERN CENTER
Dr. Arthur Costantini, the newly hired Director of the
Southeastern center, commented on the extreme difficulties
experienced by the Center in the past and presented the following
goals that have been established for the coming year:
1. Implement a Management Information System with an organized
data base that can be used to make financial and other critical
decisions. The current system has not been used effectively, and
the Center is in the process of correcting this problem as well as
recruiting for a Systems Manager.
2. Operate in a sound financial condition. The Center has
operated in a deficit condition for one and one-half years. This
deficit operation will be changed, and the Center will operate in
a solvent condition with implementation of sound business practices
that will generate the revenue needed to provide services.
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 19, 1994
PAGE 429
3. with increased revenues, the Center will provide the critical
services needed to meet specific community needs. The Center is
working with other community agencies to provide a high quality of
service to the clients of the Southeastern Center.
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4. Develop a happy, competent, competitively paid staff.
Currently, salaries are 25% less than similar positions in New
Hanover County and other areas, which has created morale problems
and a high turnover rate.
In summary, Dr. Costantini reported the Southeastern Center
Board and Staff have made a commitment to accomplish these goals
and move this agency forward in a positive manner.
commissioner Sisson requested Dr. Costantini to explain the
50% productivity salary policy.
e
Dr. Costantini reported in order to improve the Center, the
Center must provide quality services, bill for the services, and
collect the billings; therefore, a 50% productivity schedule has
been developed. This means that Staff members working 40 hours per
week with 20 of these hours used to see clients, will break even on
their salaries because the 20 hours are billable. Therefore, the
50% productivity rate has been met and the remaining time can be
used to perform paperwork. If staff members see clients more than
20 hours a week, they are more than earning their salaries. Each
.staff member will be individually plotted in terms of the
percentage of billable hours so that the Center will know where
funds are being generated and the productivity of each staff
member. A 50% productivity rate is minimum and Staff members under
this level will be in trouble. It is felt that the first step must
be a high productivity rate in order to improve the quality of
services. The billing and collection systems should improve with
implementation of the Management Information System.
coinmissioner sisson commented on recent media reports and
stated, in his opinion, Dr. Costantini and the Staff Members are
making outstanding efforts to correct the problems that have been
experienc~d in the past and will move forward with a productive and
"responsi ve agency.
Chairman Greer, on behalf of the Board, expressed appreciation
for the informative report.
FIRST READING OF AMENDMENT TO THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY CODE CHAPTER
6, ARTICLE IX, MONTHLY 911 CHARGE
County Attorney Copley commented on problems being experienced
with the col'lection of the monthly 911 charge and reported to
require persons to go to court to collect fifty cents is time
consuming and costly for the County. After a review by the Legal
Department, it is felt that a civil citation issued for non-payment
of the 9'11 charge will serve as a deterrent and reduce the cost of
legal action. She requested approval of the following ordinance:
Add Section 6-171, Penalties
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Pursuant to G. S. 153A-123, New Hanover County may issue a
civil citation in the amount of fifty dollars to any
subscriber who, in violation of this Article, refuses to pay
the 911 charge billed to them. This citation may be issued
once a subscriber has failed to pay for a total of three
months. Each month's continuing violation "following the
initial three'-month period shall constitute a separate offense
under this article. These penalties may be recovered by the
County in a civil action in the nature of debt if the offender
does not'pay'the penalty within twenty (20) days after being
cited. ' "
.....
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 19, 1994
PAGE 430
Motion: Vice-Chairman Mathews MOVED,
Sisson to adopt the proposed amendment
New Hanover County Code as presented by
floor was opened for discussion.
SECONDED by Commissioner
to the 911 section of the
the Legal Department. The
Chairman Greer inquired as to whether $50 is a sufficient
penalty?
County Attorney Copley reported after three months of non-
payment, the subscriber is notified that he or she will have to
appear in court. If payment is not received, each month of non-
payment after the initial three months is considered a separate
offense and the subscriber will be charged $50 per month until
payment is received.
o
Discussion was held on how long the County would continue to
charge the 911 charge. county Manager O'Neal reported the 911
charge will no longer be required to fund the 911 Computer Aided
Dispatch System after January 1996; however, eliminating this
charge will require County funding for on-going maintenance and
upgrades to the system, which will come from the ad valorem tax or
grants.
commissioner Caster reported he would like to thoroughly
review the 911 charge during the budget process for FY 1995-96.
Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS:
Voting Aye: Commissioner Caster
commissioner Sisson
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Voting Nay: Commissioner Barone
Chairman Greer
o
commissioner Barone reported, for the record, she voted no
because she feels the public should be given another opportunity to
comment on the proposed ordinance.
Since the ordinance did not receive a majority vote, a second
reading of the ordinance will be held on January 3, 1995.
PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER APPROVAL OF INSTALLMENT FINANCING WITH
FIRST CITIZENS BANK AND TRUST AS REQUIRED BY N. C. GENERAL
STATUTES, SECTION 160A-20 FOR THE PURCHASE OF 700 FRONT STREET
ASSOCIATES PROPERTY FOR CAPE FEAR COMMUNITY COLLEGE
County Attorney. Copley requested approval of an installment
financing contract with First citizens Bank and Trust to purchase
the 700 Front Street Associates property for Cape Fear community
College.
Chairman Greer inquired as to whether the resolution should be
amended under Paragraph 2 on the first page of the document to
reflect that the proj ect total should not exceed $465,000 as
referenced in the last Paragraph on this page.
Assistant County Attorney, Kemp Burpeau, reported this
document was prepared from language submitted by First citizens
Bank and Trust; therefore, he will need to contact the bank to be
sure that changing the language will not create a problem.
o
Motion: commissioner Barone MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Caster
to open the Public Hearing. Upon vote, the. MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
. ,
Chairman Greer opened the Public Hearing and inquired as to
whether anyone from the general public would like to comment.
Dr. Eric MCKeithan, President of Cape Fear Community College,
presented a sketch and map of the proposed expansion of the College
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 19, 1994
PAGE 431
that reflected the use of the 700 North Front street property. He
expressed appreciation to the Board of Commissioners and County
Staff for the cooperation shown in moving forward with this
purchase.
Motion: Commissioner Barone, MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner
Caster to close the Public Hearing. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
e
Chairman Greer closed the Public Hearing.
Motion: Commissioner Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Sisson
to adopt the resolution for the installment financing contract with
First citizens Bank and Trust in an amount not to exceed $465,000
for the purchase of 700 Front Street Associates Property for
expansion of Cape Fear Community College. 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 XXII, Page 25.
, ,
BREAK
Chairman Greer called a break from 10:11 A.M. until 10:31 A.M.
APPROVAL OF RATE INCREASES FOR MEDICAL TRANSPORTATION SPECIALISTS,
INC. AND NEW HANOVER COUNTY EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES
.' Financ~ Director, Bruce Shell, presented rate increases for
Medical Transportation Specialists, Inc. (MTS) and the New Hanover
co~nty ,Emergency.~edical Services (EMS). MTS has operated a non-
emergency ambulance transportation service for the County since
199\1 without a rate increase. After a complete review of the
,icui::rent rates, Staff feels the rates should be increased and
'reco~ends approval of the following rates due to changes that have
occurred in Medicare regulations:
e
(1) The MTS rate would increase from $100 to $135.
(2) The EMS rate would increase from $200 to $225 for basic
life support and $250 for advanced life support.
currently, one rate is charged for all transports. The
rate for non-transports would remain unchanged at $100.
Discussion was held on the history of contracting with MTS and
the value of this service to New Hanover County. Deputy County
Manager, Andrew J. Atkinson, reported there is a $40,000 cap that
is paid to MTS as a supplement to cover indigent costs. At one
time, the funds necessary to provide this service were much higher
t~an the $40,000 cap.
commissioner Barone inquired as to the amount paid by private
fnsurance companies for non-emergency transports?
e
Mr. Paul Hubbard, owner of MTS, reported the payment for non-
emergency ambulance service varies among private insurance
companies depending on the type of plan and coverage. Blue
crqss/Blue Shield pays based upon the Medicare rates; whereas, a
few private companies pay 100% of the cost. The bulk of non-
emergency transports are Medicare and Medicaid patients. Many
clients have Medicare and co-insurance which will sometimes pay
100% of the bill. If not, the remaining amount due is written off.
The ambulance industry as a whole collects approximately 50 cents
on" the dollar; however, New Hanover County has an exceptional
collection rate of 54%.
.'
Motion: Commissioner Sisson MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman
Mathews to approve the rate increases as presented by the Finance
Dii'ector to become effective January 1, 1995. Upon vote, the
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
....
,MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 19, 1994 PAGE '4'-32
COMMISSION SISSON EXCUSED FROM THE MEETING
Commissioner sisson was excused from meeting at 10:40 A.M. due
to not feeling well.
DISCUSSION OF COUNTY UTILIZATION OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACCESS CHANNEL
Assistant to the County Manager, Pat Melvin, reported the
County has an opportunity to increase public awareness of Board
meetings, agendas, and upcoming bid opportunities through use of
the Government Access Channel. The cost of utilizing this service
is $10 per hour for technician services. The city of Wilmington
pays approximately $30 for each agenda placed on the network.
staff recommends considering the use of the local Government Access
Channel.
o
Discussion was held on the cost of publishing the agenda in
the Neighbors section of the Star-News and the cost that would be
involved with placing the agenda on the Government Access Channel.
The Clerk to the Board reported the cost for publishing the agenda
in the Star-News is approximately $150 per agenda.
Chairman Greer reported since the agenda is being published as
a public service, he cannot support using both services.
County Manager O'Neal reported using both the newspaper and
local Government Access Channel would be ideal; however, if a
choice had to be made, he would publish the agenda in the newspaper
because many residents of the County do not have access to cable
television.
commissioner Barone inquired as to whether the agenda can be
keyed into the Government Access Channel when being typed in the
Manager's Office?
County Manager O'Neal reported Staff will be glad to see if
the scroll can be prepared in-house and forward a report to the
Board.
o
Consensus: After further discussion of cost involved with
publishing the agenda in the newspaper and the fact that all County
residents do not have accessibility to cable television, it was the
consensus of the Board not to use the local Government Access
Channel at this time.
ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION TO CHANGE SECTION II OF THE NEW HANOVER
COUNTY ACCOUNTING MANUAL
Finance Director, Bruce Shell, reported under the current
purchasing, policy, a purchase order is required on all purchases
and services that amount to $150 or more, and an item-is classified'
as a fixed asset if the cost is more than $500. Staff recommends
increasing these limits to require a purchase order for an item or
service that. is $500 or more and classify an item as a fixed asset
if the cost is $1,000 or more. Raising these limits will save a
great deal of time for Staff and reduce the -postage expenditure.
After checking with other counties, the proposed figures are
appropriate and would be a positive move for the county in saving
time and money.
Discussion was held on the security of the purchasing system
with the proposed increase in limits. County Manager O'Neal
reported all Department Heads are held responsible for adhering to
the purchasing policy and the established limits for purchase
orders and fixed assets.
o
Motion: commissioner Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman
Mathews to adopt the resolution increasing the $150 limit for
purchase orders to $500 and increasing the $500 limit on fixed
assets to $1,000 to become effective January 1, 1995. The floor
was opened for discussion.
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 19, 1994
PAGE :&33
Chairman Greer agreed with increasing the limit for fixed
assets, but disagreed with increasing the purchasing limit from
$150 to $500, which, in his opinion, would encourage people to
spend more money.
e
Substitute Motion: After further discussion, Chairman Greer made
a SUBSTITUTE MOTION, SECONDED by Commissioner Barone to increase
the limit for purchase orders from $150 to $250 and increase the
fixed asset limit from $500 to $1,000 to become effective January
1, 1995.
Upon vote, the SUBSTITUTE MOTION RECEIVED A TIE VOTE and no
action was taken.
Voting Aye: Commissioner Barone
Chairman Greer
voting Nay: Commissioner Caster
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Excused: Commissioner Sisson
Further discussion was held on the purchase order procedure
and the security of this policy. Finance Director Shell reported
the purchasing approval process will still be in place through a
payment voucher or purchase order; therefore, raising the limit
should not encourage unnecessary spending.
Chairman Greer reported
the item has been purchased,
created by the $150 rate
unnecessary items.
payment vouchers are presented after
and in his opinion, the paper trail
will deter people from purchasing
e
County Manager O'Neal reported the Department Heads must work
within the constraints of their budgets and cannot overspend the
amount appropriated during the fiscal year.
Deputy County Manager, Andrew J. Atkinson, reported while
serving as Finance Director for 15 years, only one department has
over spent on its budget, which was because of salaries. In his
opinion, the current purchase order limit of $150 has created a
real burden on the employees in the Finance Department. Increasing
this limit will save both time and money for the County.
Commissioner Barone reported after hearing this explanation
she would change her vote to support the original motion to approve
an increase in the limits since employee time and money will be
saved.
Chairman Greer called for a vote on the original MOTION to
adopt the resolution presented which will increase the limits for
purchase orders to $500 and fixed assets to $1,000 to become
effective January 1, 1995. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS
FOLLOWS:
Voting Aye:
commissioner Barone
Commissioner Caster
Vice-Chairman Mathews
e
voting Nay: Chairman Greer
Excused:
commissioner Sisson
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXII, Page 25.
, .
MEETING CONVENED FROM REGULAR SESSION TO HOLD A REGULAR MEETING OF
THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY WATER , SEWER DISTRICT
I" Chairman Greer convened from Regular Session to hold a meeting
of the New Hanover county Water & Sewer District from 11:09 A.M.
.-. . ...
uj1eil 11:12 A.M.
....
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 19, 1994
PAGE .434'
APPOINTMENTS OF COMMISSIONERS TO SERVE ON VARIOUS BOARDS AND
COMMITTEES
Motion: After discussion, Vice-Chairman Mathews MOVED, SECONDED by
Commissioner Caster to allow the Commissioners to continue to serve
on the same boards and committees. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
AS FOLLOWS:
Voting Aye: Commissioner Barone
Commissioner Caster
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Chairman Greer
Excused:
Commissioner Sisson
commissioner Barone requested that the Water & Sewer Strategic
Planning Task Force be removed from the list since its mission has
been completed. It was agreed to remove this committee from the
list.
The following commissioners were reappointed to serve on the
following boards:
Bellamy Mansion Board of Directors
Cape Fear River Program Advisory Board
Chamber of Commerce
Convention & Visitors Bureau
Council of Governments
COG/Aging Advisory Council
COG/Executive Committee
COG/Region "0" EMS
COG/Solid Waste Task Force
COG/Water Quality Task Force
Criminal Justice Partnership Advisory Bd.
Dare Board of Directors
DSS Building Committee
Fire Commission
Groundwater Task Force
Health Board
Hospital Board of Trustees
Human Services Transportation Advisory Bd.
Human Relations Commission
Keep America Beautiful
Military Affairs Committee
NHC Alcohol & Drug Task Force
Parks & Recreation Advisory Board
Port, Waterway & Beach Commission
Southeastern Center
Transportation Advisory Committee
WASTEC commission
Wilmington Industrial Commission
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Commissioner Caster
Chairman Greer
Commissioner Barone
commissioner Sisson
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Commissioner Caster
commissioner Barone
Commissioner Barone
Commissioner Barone
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Commissioner Sisson
commissioner Barone
Commissioner Sisson
Chairman Greer
commissioner Caster
commissioner Sisson
commissioner Sisson
Chairman Greer
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Commissioner Caster
Chairman Greer
commissioner Caster
commissioner Sisson
commissioner Barone
Commissioner Caster
Vice-Chairman Mathews
DISCUSSION OF ALTERNATE MEMBERS ATTENDING THE ZONING BOARD OF
ADJUSTMENT MEETINGS
Commissioner Barone reported on it being unreasonable to
expect alternate members to attend all the meetings of the Zoning
Board of Adjustment, and she requested the Board to reconsider the
consensus that was taken at the November 21, 1994, meeting,
particularly when she thought this matter was discussed and not
approved by consensus.
Chairman Greer reported the action was by consensus and the
minutes were correctly recorded; however, he feels this item should
be reconsidered.
Discussion was held on the training provided to new and
alternate members appointed to serve on the Zoning Board of
Adjustment. Assistant County Attorney, Kemp Burpeau, reported
periodically the Planning Department and Legal Department invite
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, .DECEMBER 19, 1994
PAGE 435
representatives from the Institute of Government to conduct
Workshops on the functions of the Zoning Board of Adjustment.
Also, an informational pamphlet is provided to each new member and
the Legal Department is available at all times to assist members if
they do not understand an issue. Alternate members are notified in
advance when they are needed to fill in for a regular member;
however, most of the alternate members attend various meetings
throughout the year to become more familiar with the process.
Motion: After further discussion, commissioner Barone, MOVED,
,SECONDED by Commissioner Caster to allow the policy to remain
unchanged prior to the regular meeting of November 21, 1994, which
did not require alternates to attend all meetings of the Zoning
Board of Adjustment. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS:
Voting Aye: Commissioner Barone
Commissioner Caster
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Chairman Greer
Excused: Commissioner Sisson
COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS
Reappointment of Mary King Dean, Mary Lou Alford, and W. Keith
Elmore to Serve on the New Hanover County Board of Health and
Appointment of Estelle Grady Whitted to Fill the Unexpired Term of
Laura pitts Maness
Chairman Greer announced that four vacancies exist on the
Board of Health: (1) two vacancies in the general public category
with one 3-year term and one unexpired term. Seven applications
have been received and Mary K. Dean desires to be reappointed; (2)
one 3-year term in the nursing category with eight applications
received and Mary Lou Alford desires to be reappointed; and (3) one
3-year term in the pharmacist category with only one application
recei ved in the name of W. Keith Elmore, who desires to be
reappointed.
Motion:
Barone to
the Board
Vice-Chairman Mathews MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner
reappoint the following persons to serve 3-year terms on
of Health to expire December 31, 1997:
Mary King Dean,
Mary Lou Alford,
W. Keith Elmore,
representing the general public
representing the nurs~ng category
representing the pharmacist category
Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS:
Voting Aye: Commissioner Barone
Commissioner Caster
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Chairman Greer
Excused: Commissioner Sisson
Chairman Greer opened the floor to receive nominations to fill
the unexpired term of Laura pitts Maness.
commissioner Barone nominated Alonzo M. Layton to fill the
u~expired term. NO SECOND WAS RECEIVED.
vice~Chairman Mathews nominated Estelle Grady Whitted. The
nomination was seconded by Chairman Greer.
There being no further nominations, Chairman Greer declared
the nominations closed.
,vote: Upon vote, Estelle Grady Whitted was appointed to fill the
'unexpired term of Laura pitts Maness in the general public category
'to expire December 31, 1995, by the following vote:
.....
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 19, 1994
PAGE 436
voting Aye: Commissioner Caster
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Chairman Greer
voting Nay: Commissioner Barone
Excused: Commissioner sisson
Appointment of Archie Shaw and Reappointment of John J. Manock to
Serve on the Human Relations Commission
Chairman Greer reported two vacancies exist on the Human
Relations Commission and that 12 applications have been received
with John J. Manock and James C. Moore desiring to be reappointed.
o
Chairman Greer opened the floor to receive nominations.
Chairman Greer nominated Archie Shaw.
seconded by Commissioner Barone.
The nomination was
Vice-Chairman Mathews nominated John Manock for reappointment.
commissioner Caster seconded the nomination.
There being no further nominations, Chairman Greer declared
the nominations closed.
Vote: Upon vote, Archie Shaw was appointed to serve a 3-year term
on the Human Relations Commission to expire December 31, 1997, by
the following vote:
Voting Aye: Commissioner Barone
Commissioner Caster
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Chairman Greer
Excused:
commissioner Sisson
o
Vote: Upon vote, John Manock was reappointed to serve a 3-year
term on the Human Relations Commission to expire December 31, 1997,
by the following vote:
Voting Aye: Commissioner Caster
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Chairman Greer
,Voting Nay: Commissioner Barone
Excused: Commissioner Sisson
Appointment of Helena J. Lee to Serve as an At-Large Member on the
Southeastern Center Board of Directors
Chairman Greer .reported that one at-large vacancy exists on
the Southeastern Center Board of Directors with two applications
received.
Commissioner Barone inquired as to whether Commissioner
Sisson, the County's representative on the Southeastern Center
Board, had recommended anyone for appointment.
Chairman Greer reported Commissioner Sisson had recommended
Helena J. Lee.
o
Chairman Greer opened the floor to receive nominations.
Chairman Greer nominated Helena J. Lee. Vice-Chairman Mathews
seconded the nomination.
There being no further nominations, Chairman Greer declared
the nominations closed.
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 19, 1994
PAGE 43 7
Vote: Upon vote, Helena J. Lee was appointed to serve a 3-year
term on the Southeastern Center Board of Directors as an at-large
member with the term to expire December 31, 1997, by the following
vote:
voting Aye: Commissioner Barone
Commissioner Caster
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Chairman Greer
e
Excused:
commissioner Sisson
DISCUSSION OF LEGISLATIVE GOALS AS PROPOSED BY THE NORTH CAROLINA
ASSOCIATION OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Commissioner Caster reported on the importance of these goals
and requested the Chairman to present background information on the
proposed goals since he had co-chaired the Legislative Goals
Committee during the past year.
Chairman Greer expressed concern for the entire legislative
goals process because he thought that Commissioners throughout the
state would present legislative concerns about education, public
health, general government, etc., but instead the goals were
prepared by the various associations, such as the N. C. Association
of Public Health. If the General Assembly adopted all of the goals
submitted, the cost for implementing these goals would be in excess
of $100 million. As a Co-Chairman of this committee, he is opposed
to many of the recommended goals; therefore, he would like for each
Commissioner to thoroughly review each goal and inform the County's
voting delegate, Vice-Chairman Mathews, which goals should' or
should not be supported so he can vote accordingly at the
Legislativ.e Goals Conference to be held on January 5-6, 1995.
e
Vice-Chairman Mathews expressed concern for the Commissioners
throughout the state not having more input into the process and
requested Chairman Greer to express these concerns at the
conference.
,.,
commissioner Caster referred to the Health Care Reform goal
which states that a reformed health care system must guarantee
every citizen quality comprehensive health care services that
emphasize disease prevention, health promotion and improved health
'status., He stated this goal is totally unrealistic. He also
expressed concern for not seeing any goals pertaining to allowing
residents to vote on annexation or the need for local governments
to implement flow control ordinances.
County Attorney Copley reported that flow control is regulated
by the federal government; however, it would not be inappropriate
to let the ,state Legislators know the need for counties to have
authority to implement a flow control ordinance. As to annexation,
these regulations are governed by the N. C. Legislature.
Commissioner Barone inquired as to whether a brief Work
Session,should be scheduled to discuss these goals before attending
the conference.
, '
e
Consensus: After further discussion, it was the consensus of the
Board to hold a brief Work Session after the staff Meeting on
Thursday, December 29, 1994, to discuss the proposed Legisl'ative
Goals.
t,
ADDITIONAL ITEMS - COUNTY MANAGER
"
"
,-" .~
Announcement of~Meetlnq to be Held by the Board of Education to
.- ....,
Pr~~ent a Status Report on Activities Related to the School Bond
Issue
County Manager O'Neal announced the Board of Education will
'" ho!? a meeting on ",Tuesday, December 20, 1994, at 12:00 Noon to
, present a status report on activities related to the school bond
)issue. sincejhe w~ll be out-of-town, the Deputy County Manager,
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 19, 1994
PAGE 438
Andrew J. Atkinson, will be attending the meeting.
County commissioners are invited to attend.
All of the
Discussion of Retreat
County Manager O'Neal commented on trying to find a place to
hold the retreat scheduled for January 26, 1995, and reported the
Blockade Runner and Holiday Inn at Wrightsville Beach were not
available. After further contacts, it appears the retreat will be
held in the Coast Line Inn. Once a final decision is made, the
Board will be informed.
Discussion of County Tour Scheduled for January 18, 1994
County Manager O'Neal reported the Chairman of the Board of
Education and Superintendent of Schools will not be able to join
the Commissioners on the County tour scheduled for January 18,
1995.
Annual Conference of the School Board Association, county
Commissioners, county Managers, and Superintendents of Schools to
be held on January 23-24, 1995
County Manager O'Neal announced the annual meeting of the
School Board Association, County Commissioners, County Managers,
and Superintendents of Schools will be held at the Research
Triangle on January 23-24, 1995, in Raleigh, N. C. ~
Discussion of Revisions to the Subdivision Ordinance
County Manager O'Neal reported the Planning Board held a
Public Hearing to receive public input on the proposed revisions to
the Subdivision Ordinance with very few comments received. The
P~anning Board would like to schedule a Work Session with the Board
of County Commissioners and the Fire Commission to discuss the
proposed revisions. He informed the Board that since commissioner
sisson was not present, he would discuss this item at the regular
meeting scheduled for January 3, 1995.
Chairman Greer inquired as to why the Fire Commission is
involved with the revisions to the Subdivision Ordinance?
County Manager O'Neal reported the members of the Fire
Commission are concerned about the location of fire hydrants, the
required turn around radius, and other technical issues that need
to be addressed to prepare new development for adequate fire
protection.
Chairman Greer reported the commissioners did not ask for the
Subdivision Ordinance to be revised and stated, in his opinion,
this entire process is out of hand. It appears that someone wants
the County to require fire hydrants; however, the Board of County
Commissioners directed the Planning Board to work out a plan and
bring it back to the Commissioners for Board action. Now, the Fire
Commission wants to become involved again, and the entire process
will begin allover.
Assistant County Manager, Dave Weaver commented on attending
the Public Hearing held by the Planning Board and reported there
was agreement on most of the revisions to the Subdivision
Ordinance; however, some concerns were expressed about fire
protection and fire hydrants. The Planning Board felt that
specifications should be required for fire hydrants, but did not
know to what extent the County would be willing to commit to the
drinking water business. For example, when a subdivider installs
a drinking water system, should the County require the water system
to be constructed to certain specifications so that future fire
hydrants can be installed in the subdivision? The Planning Board
did not know how to address this issue without knowing how the
Board of county Commissioners felt about the matter.
Chairman Greer reported drinking water and water used to fight
fires are two different types of water. The County's water systems
are for drinking purposes without the capability of putting out
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, DECEMBER 19, 1994
PAGE 43'9
fires. The County does
regulations in place, and in
any regulations are needed.
not currently have any rules and
his opinion, he does not know whether
Assistant County Manager Weaver reported there are not two
different kinds of drinking water. Basically, the criteria to
determine if a drinking water system can support fire hydrants
depends upon the amount of pressure and water that can be delivered
over a given period of time, which relates back to the size of the
water mains installed in the subdivision and capacity of the water
storage tank.
After further discussion, it was agreed to discuss this matter
on January 3, 1995.
Status Report on WASTEC to be Scheduled at a Regular Meeting in
January or February, 1995
County Manager O'Neal reported in January or February, he will
request Mr. Peter Pattinson to present a status report on WASTEC
and inform the Board of the positive things that are occurring at
the plant.
Discussion of Heating and Cooling of County Buildings
Vice-Chairman Mathews expressed concern for Property
Manage~ent turning off the heating and cooling units during
weekends and reported County employees arrive on Monday mornings
with no heat. He requested the County Manager to check into this
matter and be sure that County buildings are comfortable for the
employees.
County Manager O'Neal reported there is a mech&nical problem
with the heating unit in the Assembly Room; however, Staff has
probably been over zealous with trying to save money and he will
~check into the matter.
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Discussion of Changes that Could Occur after the November 8, 1994,
Election
. , ~ Chairman Greer reported since the November election, he feels
the people have spoken and that many things will change and not go
on as usual. He urged the County Manager and Staff to be prepared
for these changes, particularly with the possible elimination of
grants and other monies. He also urged the Commissioners to be
aware of this fact and be very frugal with County dollars and the
expansion of government services.
County Manager O'Neal agreed and reported the County will be
prepared. He expressed concern for the elimination of revenues on
the state and federal level with the local governments having to
figure out how to provide funds for programs.
Chairman Greer responded that programs will have to be cut.
Many programs are funded by grants and if the grant funds are not
ayailable" ;these programs will have to be eliminated.
. ~:. .'
Change in Meeting Room for Agenda Staff Meetings
C~erk to the Board, Lucie F. Harrell, requested authorization
to schedule future Staff Meetings in Room 501 of the County
Adminis~ration Building instead of Room 318.
e<'. It'" was'\~agi~'ed to meet in Room 501 of the County Administration
\for all, future Agenda Staff Meetings.
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ADJOURNMENT"',~ ,0,
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~." Chairman Gre'er adjourned
everyon~a Merry Christmas.
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the meeting at 12:00 noon and wished
~es ectfully submitted,
.~/~.
Lu' F. Harrell
Clerk to the Board
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