1995-03-20 Regular Meeting
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, MARCH 20, 1995
PAGE 579
ASSEMBLY
The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners met in Regular
Session on Monday, March 20, 1995, 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.
INVOCATION AND PLEDGE
Reverend W. M.
Holiness Church, gave
OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG
Wooten, Pastor of the First
the invocation.
Pentecostal
Vice-Chairman Mathews 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 followipg items were received:
Discussion on Involvement of The Wilmington cape Fear Homebuilders
Association in Future Development of the county Sewer system
Mr. Dean Potter, President of the Wilmington Cape Fear
Homebuilders Association, reported the Association would like to be
included in future expansion of the County Sewer System and take a
proactive stance in developing the system instead of having to
react to a plan already established. Also, the Homebuilders
Association is concerned about increasing. impact fees as a way to
generate additional revenue, and the Association feels this option
should not be considered.
Chairman Greer expressed appreciation to Mr. Potter for the
remarks and reported the County will try to include the
Homebuilders Association in the sewer expansion process.
Request by Tim Sharp for Waiver of Sewer Impact Fee
Mr. Tim S~arp expressed concern for having to pay a $375
impact fee to locate a mobile home on his lot along Creek Wood Road
in the northern end of New Hanover County. He commented on needing
the money to pay for installing a septic system and requested the
Commissioners to waive the fee since sewer would not be available
in this area for 10-15 years.
After a brief discussion, no action was taken.
Discussion of Room Occupancy Tax
'Captain Dave Sheu, Secretary of the Cape Fear Coast Convention
and Visitors Bureau (CVB) Board of Directors, commented on tourism
being the number one industry in North Carolina and reported the
CVB desperately needs additional funds to promote tourism in New
Hanover County in order to remain competitive with other areas.
Figures were presented on the funds received and the effectiveness
of the CVB in bringing tourism dollars to the County. In 'order to
obtain more funds, the ('VB Board has prepared a resdlution to
change the current distribution of receipts from the Room Occupancy
Tax from 75% for beach renourishment and 25% for tourism to "601;"
for beach renourishment and "40%" for tourism (the Cape Fear Coast
Convention and Visitors Bureau). The Commissioners were requested
to adopt a resolution of support to present a local bill to the
legislature to change the funding distribution. Captain Sheu
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, MARCH 20" 1995
PAGE 580
reported N. C. House Representative Danny McComas had volunteered
to introduce the local bill.
commissioner sisson inquired as to whether the beach
communities had been notified of the proposed change?
Captain Sheu reported Carolina Beach had no problem with the
proposed change; however, Kure Beach and Wrightsville Beach have
not responded in support of the resolution:
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commissioner Barone inquired as to whether the City of
Wilmington had adopted the proposed resolution.
captain Sheu reported the City of Wilmington has not adopted
a similar resolution.
Motion: After discussion of the value of tourism dollars to the
County and the March 22, 1995, deadline for the introduction of
local bills in the N. C. House of Representatives, Commissioner
Barone MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner sisson to adopt the
resolution in support of changing the distribution formula of
receipts from the Room Occupancy Tax to 60% for beach renourishment
and 40% for tourism (the Cape Fear Coast Convention and Visitors
Bureau). 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 31.
APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA
Motion: Vice-Chairman Mathews MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner
sisson to approve the items on the Consent Agenda as presented.
Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
CONSENT AGENDA
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Approval
The
meetings
of Minutes
Commissioners approved the minutes of
as presented by the Clerk to the Board:
the
following
Solid Waste Special Meeting
Airport Authority Work Session
Consolidation Work Session
Regular Meeting
February
February
February
March 9,
9, 1995
24, 1995
28, 199'5
1995
Approval of Budget Amendment #95-0141 and Establishment of a
Pretrial Screener position for the criminal Justice partnership
Program
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment and
established a Pretrial Screener position for the Criminal Justice
Partnership Program:
95-0141 - Criminal Justice Partnership Program
Debit
Credit
Grants
criminal Justice Partnership Program
$19,479
Salaries & Wages
FICA
Contracted Services
Departmental Supplies
Training & Travel
Capital Outlay
$6,500
$ 700
$1,500
$4,779
$1,000
$5,000
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Purpose: To budget funds received for the Criminal Justice
Partnership Program - N.C. Department of correction.
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, MARCH 20, 1995
PAGE 581
Approval of Budget Amendment #95-0145 to Budget Funding From the
Department of Environment, Health , Natural Resources (DEHNR) for
the New Hanover county Year 2000 Committee - New Hanover County
Health Department
The Commiss~oners approved the following Budget Amendment to
budget funds received from the Department of Environment, Health
and Natural Resources to fund a prenatal care project of the New
Hanover County Year 2000 Committee:
#94-0145 - Health Department/Maternal
Debit
Credit
Health Department/Maternal
state Grant
$11,686
Contracted Services
$11,686
Approval of 1994 Exemption of Parcel #R04917-004-020-000 for the
willow Pond Limited partnership
The Commissioners approved a 1994 exemption for the willow
Pond Limited Partnership with a refund of taxes paid in 1994 on the
following property:
Parcel .Number
R04917-004-020-000
Address
South of the intersection of Broad Street
and Darlington Avenue and adjacent to the
southern boundary of the Market North
Apartments
After a review of the appeal, it was determined by the
Assistant County Attorney and Tax Administrator that the
information received was adequate to exempt the property for 1994.
Substantiating documents are available in the Tax Office.
Acceptance of Tax Collection Reports through February 28, 1995
The Commissioners accepted the following Tax Collection
Reports through February 28, 1995, 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 31.
Adoption of Resolution Authorizing the Sale of Surplus Property
Jointly OWned by the city of wilmington and New Hanover County
The Commissioners adopted a resolution authorizing the sale of
surplus property owned by the City of Wilmington and New Hanover
County, identified as follows:
Parcel Number
R0054-14-004-011.000
Address
1022 South 13th Street
Amount of Offer
$1,670.00
Offeror: Rhonda Karen Marshall
1020 South 13th Street
Wilmington, N.C. 28401
This property represents ad valorem tax values as of 1989
totalling $1,544.00.
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXII, Page 31.
Adoption of Resolution Authorizing the Sale of surplus property
Jointly OWned by the city of Wilmington and New Hanover county
The Commissioners adopted a resolution authorizing the sale of
surplus property owned by the City of Wilmington and New Hanover
County, identified as follows:
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, MARCH 20, 1995
PAGE 582
Parcel Number
R0054-10-002-004.000
Address
905 Castle street
Amount of Offer
$4,280.00
Offeror: Lewis A. Hines, Jr.
813 Red Cross street
Wilmington, N. C.
This property represents ad valorem tax values as of 1989
totalling $5,796.00
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A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXII, Page 31.
Approval for Establishment of Income Maintenance Caseworker II
position - Department of Social Services
The Commissioners approved the establishment of an Income
Maintenance Caseworker II position as a Medicaid worker for the
Department of Social Services. The County's cost will be paid by
the New Hanover Community Health Center.
Approval of Budget Amendment 95-37 - Sheriff's Department .
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
95-37 - Controlled Substance TaX/Sheriff's Department
Debit
Credit
Controlled Substance Tax
Controlled Substance Tax
$6,286
Controlled Substance Tax
supplies
$6,286
Purpose: To increase the budget for revenue received on February
2, 1995 in the amount of $6,286.05. Controlled Substance Tax funds
are budgeted as received and must be used for law enforcement
activities as the Sheriff deems necessary.
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Approval of Budget Amendment 95-0131 - Social services/Child Day
care/Administration/Title xx/county Commissioners' Office
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
95-0131 - Social services/child Day care/Administration/Title xx
County Commissioners' Office
Debit
Credit
Social Services!
Child Dav Care
Day Care Services
$ 44,863
$ 44,863
social Services!
Administration
Administration Grants
$300,000
Contracted Services
Training & Travel
Motor Vehicle Purchase
$ 53,000
$ 15,000
$ 15,000
Social Services!Title XX
Miscellaneous Client Cost
Out-Of-County SW Travel
$ 22,500
$ 15,000
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Countv Commissioners' Office
Appropriated Fund Balance
$179,500
Purpose: A.
To budget $44,863 in additional State funding
received for day care services.
B. To budget a new revenue source that was established
to lower the County dollars required for
administration costs. This will decrease the
amount of fund balance appropriated by $179,500 and
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, MARCH 20, 1995
P1\.GE 583
provide DSS with a vehicle to transport clients
that require out-of-county placement.-
Approval of Budget Amendment #95-0142 To Budget contributions For
The "Commit to Quit" Program - Health Department project Assist
The-Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
95-0142 - Health Department/project Assist
Debit
Credit
Health Department!
proiect Assist
Contribution
$1,500
Printing
Miscellaneous
$ 500
$1,000
Purpose: To budget contributions for the "Commit to Quit" program.
Approval of Budget Amendment #95-0143 To Budget Additional state
lAP Funds for Additional Supplies - Health Department Epidemiology
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
95-0143 - Health Department/Epidemiology
Debit
credit
Health Dept.!Epidemioloqy
lAP state
$6,954
Departmental Supplies
$6,954
Purpose: To budget additional State lAP funds for additional
supplies.
Approval of Budget Amendment #95-0144 To Transfer Funds From
contingencies To Provide Partial Funding for Removal of Asphalt and
Grading Services/Installation of Lights/New Hanover High School
Tennis Courts - Parks Department
The Commissioners approved ~he following Budget Amendment:
95-0144 - Non-Departmental/parks Department
Debit
Credit
Non-Departmental
contingencies,
$4,000
Parks Department
Contracted Services
$4,000
Purpose: To transfer funds from contingencies. The remaining cost
of the project will be funded by private contributions.
Adoption of Resolution to Support the candidacy of Betty Lou Ward
for NACo THIRD VICE-PRESIDENT
The Commissioners adopted a resolution to support the
'candidacy of Betty Lou Ward for NACo Third Vice-President.
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXII, Page 31.
Adoption of Proclamation Declaring Friday, March 24, 1995, as "Earl
Jackson Day"in New Hanover County
The Commissioners adopted a proclamation declaring Friday,
March 24, 1995., as "Earl Jackson Day" in New Hanover County.
A copy of the proclamation is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXII, 'Page 31.
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, MARCH 20, 1995
. PAGE 584
PRESENTATION OF NEW HANOVER COUNTY EMPLOYEE SERVICE AWARDS
county Manager O'Neal requested the following employees to
step forward to receive service awards:
Allen O'Neal, County Manager
Linell Joesy, Property Management
Joseph R. Sigman, Sheriff's Department
Wanda J. Rivenbark, Health Department
Jerome Fennell, Property Management
Peggy S. Beasley, Sheriff's Department
James Parker, Sheriff's Department
5 years
5 years
5 years
5 years
10 years 0
10 years
10 years
15 years
Bernadine G. Buffer, Tax Department
Chairman Greer, on behalf of the Board, expressed appreciation
to these employees for their dedicated years of service.
RECOGNITION OF NEW COUNTY EMPLOYEES
County Manager O'Neal introduced the following new County
employees:
Lloyd Prince, Inspections Department
Robert Glasgow, Tax Department
Anne Lawrence, Health Department
Kimberleigh Crowell, Legal Department
Donna Horne, Register of Deeds
Tammy Donahue, Register of Deeds
Tina Freeman, Register of Deeds
Mike Marcelli, N. C. Cooperative Extension Service
Shawn Ledbury, Management Information Systems
,Paul Majkut, Property Management
Henry Green, Property Management
Cheryl Creech, Department of Social Services
Mary Brown, Department of Social Services
.Kathleen Parnell, Department of Social Services
_Ed~ard R?binson, Parks Department
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_ . ,Chairman Greer, on behalf of the Board, welcomed the new
County employees to County Government and wished them well in their
new, positions.
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CONSIDERATION OF A REQUEST BY THE CAPE FEAR RIVER PROGRAM FOR NEW
HANOVER COUNTY TO ADOPT A RESOLUTION OF SUPPORT FOR A $200,000
FUNDING REQUEST FROM THE STATE LEGISLATURE
Dr. James Merritt, representing the UNC-W Center for the
Marine Science Reserve, reported the Cape Fear River is a vital
natural resource to the area which affects industry and the quality
of life in New Hanover county. The cape Fear River is th~ largest
river basin in North Carolina with 27% of the State's population
living in the basin with a projected population growth of over
2,000,000 by the year 2010. The demand on the river for'public use
and general. services will increase as well as its importance to
industrial and transportation activities throughout the State. He
stressed the importance of properly managing the river and
presented the following overview of the Cape Fear ,River Program: .
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Formation of the cape Fear River Program: In 1989, a group wa~
formed by the' Committee of 100 to study the impact of more
stringent water regulations on the Cape Fear River Basin issued by
the N. C. Department of Environmental Management. Four years
later, the cape Fear River Program was officially established with
a membership composed of private citizens representing industry,
governmental officials, representatives from regulatory agencies,
and two members from UNC-W. After meeting and reviewing the
necessary structure, it was decided to request the UNC-W Found?tion
to be the official organization to establish and control the
budget, 'and request UNC-W to control the program so specific tasks
could be achieved.
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MINUTES 'OF REGULAR MEETING, MARCH 20, 1995
PAGE 585
Mission of the Cape Fear River Program. The mission of the Cape
Fear River Program is to develop an understanding of processes
which control and influence the Cape Fear River and to provide a
mechanism for 'information exchange and public education, The
following objectives were established:
(1) Develop, implement, and manage a basin-wide coordinated
physical, chemical, and biological water quality
monitoring program. Point, non,..point, and naturally
occurring sources would be considered in developing the
monitoring plan.
(2) Interact with regulatory agencies, academic institutions,
local governments, local industries, and other groups to
determine additional studies and analysis needed to
develop an effective and successful management plan.
Initiate the studies and assist in securing funding to
conduct the research.
(3) Develop scientific information to provide environmental
education about the basin targeting point and non-point
source contributors, and produce reports to identify
changes or trends.
(4) Develop, consolidate, and maintain a data base on the
Cape Fear River Basin, including historical' and current
data, and make data available to public and private
requestors including regulatory agencies.
In summary, the Commissioners were requested to adopt a
resolution of support for a one-time funding request from the state
Legislature in the amount of $200,000 to begin monitoring the lower
Cape Fear River Basin.
Mr. Kurt Taube, Executi ve Director of the LOwer Cape Fear
Water and Sewer Authority, requested the Commissioners to adopt the
proposed resolution, and he .presented a list of other counties and
organizations that had adopted similar resolutions.. He reported
The Lower Cape Fear Water and Sewer Authority had accomplished its
original mission, which was to make available 45,000,000 gallons of
water per day to southeastern Nor.th Carolina. The Authority became
involved in the Cape Fear River Program to preserve the quality of
the water supply in the river while identifying the best potential
uses to meet economic development needs.
Mr. Gene Renzaglia, the industry representative on the Cape
Fear River Program Advisory Board and the Plant Manager of
Occidental Chemical, reported he had been involved with the quality
of water ~n the Cape River for the past six years. He noted the
plan of action proposed for monitoring and managing the river was
a viable solution and would provide a long-range plan for
protecting the quality of water. Currently, 85% of pollutants that
occui in the river are from non-point sources. This program would
provide the necessary data to make sound scientific decisions as to
what industrial uses can be added to the river without damage, such
as expansion of the County's Wastewater Treatment Systemj the
existing hog plantsj and new industries. He commented on industry
b!,!ing supportive of the Cape Fear River Program and urged the
Commissioners to adopt a resolution of support for the one-time
St?te funding request in the amount of $200,000.
Chairman Greer commented on the various groups, such as the
Cape F€ar River Assembly, and requested an explanation of whether
there was a duplication of services among the organizations.
Mr. Kurt Taube reported there was no duplication of services
between the Cape Fear River Assembly and the Cape Fear River
Program. The purpose of The Cape Fear River Program is to provide
one organization for all functions.
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, MARCH 20, 1995
PAGE 586
Mr. Renzaglia responded the Cape Fear River Program will be a
combined effort with the Cape Fear River Assembly, which has been
involved with monitoring the upper part of the river for a number
of years. The state of North Carolina would like to manage the
river system on a basin-wide program, which means a distance of 120
miles up the river. The Cape Fear River Assembly will assist with
development of the program further upstream.
Chairman Greer inquired as to how the program had been funded
during the past?
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Mr. Kurt Taube responded through private funds.
Mr. Renzaglia reported the original program was funded by
industry in an amount of $125,000. As of this date, industry has
donated an additional $115,000 because these companies feel the
Cape Fear River should be monitored and managed.
Chairman Greer agreed with the need for the program, but
expressed concern for the government being requested to foot the
bill when industry will be the primary benefactor of the program.
Mr. Renzaglia reported the program must be a combined effort
of industry, government, and the local citizenry. The Cape Fear
River Program is not industry driven because industry could slant
or taint the data produced in the water sampling and monitoring
process.
Chairman Greer commented on the $200,000 and asked how the
state funds would be managed?
Mr. Taube reported a contractual arrangement would be
developed between UNC-W and the Lower Cape Fear Water and Sewer
Authority for the funds to be forwarded to the Cape Fear River
Program. Also, the contract would specifically state how the, funds
should be used.
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Discussion was held on the Chancellor at UNC-W being
authorized to appoint the members to the Cape Fear River Program.
Dr. Merritt reported since the program is sponsored by UNC-W, the
Chancellor must approve appointmepts and other activities of the
program., Normally, persons recommended for appointment by. the
various organizations are accepted and ratified by the Chancellor.
Motion: After discussion of the program not being a duplication of
efforts and the need to identify the non-point sources of
pollution, Vice-Chairman Mathews MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner
sisson to adopt the resolution as presented. The floor was opened
for discussion. -
commissioner Barone expressed concern for UNC-W being. the lead
agency and stated she felt the program should be funded. from
private sources.
Dr. Merritt responded that UNC-W was sponsoring the program,
not creating the program.
Chairman Greer inquired as to whether future funding would be
requested?
Dr. Merritt responded the state funds are needed to begin the
monitoring of the'river; however, he could not say that additional
funds would not be requested in the future.
commissioner Barone commented on the budget outlined on Page
31 and inquired as to whether Dr. Merritt would receive the $70,000
salary for the first year, $162,000' salary for the second year; and
$167~000 salary for the third year. . .
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, MARCH 20, 1995
PAGE 587
Dr. Merritt reported the salaries are budgeted for research
technicians to collect and analyze the data. The $70,000 for the
current year will be used to pay the salaries of two (2) research
technicians who will begin the data collection process.
Commissioner Barone reported this type of work should be given
to the private sector of the community, not UNC-W.
commissioner sisson reported the private sector does not have
the academic personnel or proper equipment to provide the services
necessary to collect and analyze the data.
Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS:
voting Aye: Commissioner Caster
commissioner sisson
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Chairman Greer
voting Nay: Commissioner Barone
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXII, Page 31.
BREAK
Chairman Greer called a break from 10:15 A.M. until 10:30
A.M.
CONSIDERATION OF A REQUEST FROM FRIENDS OF THE PROGRAMS, INC. FOR
MATCHING FUNDS
Mr. Gary P. Doyle, President/Executive Director of the Friends
of the Programs, Inc., reported the foundation is a non-prOfit
organization composed of approximately 600 members. Events have
been sponsored to raise money, and the First Annual Golf Tournament
held at the Landfall Club raised funds in the amount of $32,000.
The Board of Directors issued commitment letters in the amount of
$32,000 to Laney High School, Trask and Noble Middle Schools, and
Supper and Cape Fear Optimist Clubs. with $1,500 from the Friends
of the Programs, Inc., a $7,500 contribution from the Supper
Optimist Club, and a small amount of funds from New Hanover County,
volunteers worked approximately five weeks to completely renovate
three athletic fields at the Supper Optimist Blair site. The
fields are now ready for use by the Little League Baseball teams
this spring.
After discussion with the Superintendent of schools, Dr. Dale
Martin, and Mrs. Janice Cavenaugh, Chairman of the Board of
Education, a matching program has been established with the schools
to match the $10,000 Noble commitment by the Friends of the
Programs, Inc. for the renovation of the baseball field, soccer
field, and softball field, including the retention ponds and areas
around the fields. The foundation has organized business interests
and individual c~tizens that are committed to a long-term effort to
enhance the land adjacent to the school facilities for development
of athletic fields and parks. The Board of Education has committed
to a match of $10,000 for the program, and the commissioners are
being requested to approve a $10,000 match.
commissioner Barone commented on the Board of Education match
in the amount of $10,000 and inquired as to whether this item wOuld
be pla~ed in the school's continuing budget?
Dr. Martin responded the Board of Education would make every
effort possible to place matChing funds in a continuing budget. He
placed emph~sis' on the amount of money saved by volunteers
performing the work and reported this ,program would greatly improve
outdoor recreational facilities for New Hanover County Schools.
Chairman Greer asked who would be in charge of maintaining the
renovated 'facilities?
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, MARCH 20~ 1995
PAGE 588
Mr. Doyle responded the site would be manage~ by either the
New Hanover County Parks Department or the School System.
Chairman Greer commended Mr. Doyle and the members of the
foundation for initiating the program and reported, in his opinion,
this was an excellent way for the schools and citizens of the
community to become jointly involved with upgrading the athletic
fields and parks throughout the County. He inquired as to whether
the members of the foundation understood that New Hanover County
would have control over County sites through the Parks Department
and the Parks & Recreation Advisory Board?
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Mr. Doyle reported this was understood by the members of the
foundation.
Motion: Commissioner Sisson MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Caster
to approve a match of $10,000 allocated to the New Hanover County
Board of Education under a separate line item for monitoring and
auditing of the funds, and approve the associated Budget Amendment
as listed below contingent upon the funds being used to develop a
Comprehensive Master Plan; future request for funds coinciding with
the budget process; and future facility development meeting County
standards for maintenance and operation. Upon vote, the MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Budget Amendment #95-0153
Agencies/Cultural , Recreation
Non-Department/Outside
Debit
Credit"
Non-Departmental
contingencies
$10,000
Outside Aqencies/Cultural & Recreation
New Hanover County Board of Education
$10,000
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THE 1995 BOARD OF EQUALIZATION AND REVIEW SCHEDULED TO CONVENE ON
APRIL 18, 1995
Motion: commissioner Sisson MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Caster
for the Board of County Commissioners to convene as the 1995 Board
of Equalization and Review on April 18, 1995, at 9:00 A.M. in the
Assembly Room of the New Hanover County Courthouse, 24 North Third
Street, Wilmington, North Carolina. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
Chairman Greer requested the Tax Administrator to update the
Board on plans for the revaluation process.
, Tax Administrator, Roland Register, reported Staff is in the
process of going out in the field and collecting data. Once the
field work has been completed, temporary clerical staff will be
hired in. July to begin keying in the data collected. The standards
will b~ constructed and presented for approval to the Board of
County Commissioners in July 1996. The January 1, 1997, tax b~lls
will reflect the new figures, and notices will be mailed in
November 1996 to give taxpayers time to hold informal hearings with
the Tax Department through the end of March 1997 in preparation for
the April 1997 Board of Equalization and Review meeting.
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MEETING RECESSED TO HOLD A MEETING OF THE WATER , SEWER DISTRICT
Chairman Greer convened from Regular Session at 10:50 A.M.
until 11:16 A.M. to hold a meeting of the Water & Sewer District.
COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS
Appointment of Thomas L. Dodson to Serve on - the Industrial
Facilities and Pollution Control Financing Authority
Chairman Greer "announced there was one vacancy on the
Industrial Facilities and Pollution Control Financing Authority
with five applications received. He opened the floor to receive
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M~NUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, MARCH 20, 1995
PAGE 589
nominations.
Commissioner Barone nominated vinson E. Fountain, III. The
nomination was seconded by Commissioner Caster.
vice-Chairman Mathews nominated Thomas L. Dodson. The
nomination was seconded by Commissioner sisson.
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There being no further nominations, Chairman Greer declared
the nominations closed.
Vote: Chairman Greer called for a vote on the appointment of
vinson E. Fountain, III. Upon vote, the MOTION DID NOT CARRY AS
FOLLOWS:
voting Aye: Commissioner Barone
Commissioner Caster
voting Nay: commissioner Sisson
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Chairman Greer
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Vote: Chairman Greer called for a vote on the appointment of
Thomas L., Dodson. Upon vote, Thomas L. Dodson was unanimously
appointed to serve a three-year term on the Industrial Facilities
and Pollution Control Financing Authority with the term to expire
on February 22, 2001.
Appointment of Commissioner Barone and Reappointment of Dan W.
Eller to Serve on the Lower Cape Fear Water and Sewer Authority
Commissioner Barone reported the Clerk to the Board had
furnished 'a list of current members on the Lower Cape Fear Water
and Sewer Authority, and she explained that New Hanover County was
the only County without an elected official serving on the
Authority. Commissioner Barone stressed the importance of better
communication between the Authority and County and recommended
appointing a County commissioner to serve on the Lower Cape Fear
Water and Sewer Authority..
After discussion, both Commission~r Barone and Commissioner
Sisson expressed a desire to serve on the Lower Cape Fear Water and
Sewer Authority.
Consensus: After further discussion, Commissioner Sisson withdrew
his name, and the Board by consensus appointed Commissioner Barone
to serve on the Lower cape Fear Water and Sewer Authority. The
Clerk to the Board was directed to add the Lower Cape Fear Water
and Sewer Authority to the list of boards and committees that
require the annual appointment of a County Commissioner at the
second meeting in December.
Motion: After further discussion, Chairman Greer MOVED, SECONDED
by Commissioner Barone to reappoint Dan W. Eller to serve another
three-year term on the Lower Cape Fear Water and Sewer Authority to
expire March 31, 1998. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED' UNANIMOUSLY.
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Discussion was held on the need to adhere to 'the Committee
Appointment Policy which declares a person ineligible to serve more
than two 3-year terms. It was agreed this rule should apply to all
committee appointments, other than committees with stipulated terms
under North Carolina General Statutes.
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ADDITIONAL ITEMS
ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION TO OPPOSE STATE LEGISLATION REGARDING PUBLIC
TRUST WATERS
Chairman Greer presented and requested adoption of a
resolution to oppose State Legisla"tion regarding public trust
waters. The legislation would place additional burdens on
commercial/private marina and dock facilities with the
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~INUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, MARCH ~O, 1995
PAGE 590
implementation of easement fees for existing and future marinas,
docks, piers and other structures located over public trust waters.
He reported the Town of Wrightsville Beach and many other coastal
communities had adopted similar resolutions in opposition to the
proposed legislation.
Motion: Chairman Greer MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Barone-to
adopt the resolution as presented. The flool:: was opened for
discussion.
commissioner Sisson inquired as
addressed the issue of pumping stations
these facilities not being available to
to whether marinas have
and expressed concern for
boaters?
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Mr. George Bond, representing Seapath Marina, reported the
State had established a grant program to assist marinas with
installing pumping stations. He informed the Board that Seapath
Marina had received a grant and installed a new pumping station
with 80% of the cost paid by the State. He stated with the grant
program most marinas will install pumping stations, and with the $5
cap per pump-out enacted by the State, people should use the
pumping stations.
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 31.
APPROVAL FOR THE PURCHASE OF TEN (10) VEHICLES FOR THE SHERIFF'S
DEPARTMENT
County Manager O'Neal reported on a delay in the delivery of
ten (10) vehicles for the Patrol Division of the Sheriff's
Department and informed the Board that 100 patrol cars were
available in Raleigh because the Highway Patrol Department had
ordered the cars and was not satisfied with the color. He informed
the Board that Sheriff McQueen has requested authorization to use
recent lottery receipts for the purchase of ten (10) vehicles that
will not be used by the Highway Patrol Department.
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Motion: After discussion of the money that would be saved,
Commissioner Barone MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Mathews to
approve the following Budget Amendment to allow the Sheriff to
purchas~- ten (10) vehicles. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
Budget Amendment #95-0155 - Sheriff's Department/Administration
Debit
Credit
Sheriff's Dept./Administration
Other
$180,968
Motor Vehicle Purchases
$180,968
Purpose: To budget lottery receipts for purchase of ten (10)
vehicles for the Patrol Division of the Sheriff's Department.
DISCUSSION OF LOCAL REVENUE BILLS PROPOSED BY JOHNSTON COUNTY AND
N. C. HOUSE REPRESENTATIVE BILL OWENS
County Manager O'Neal commented on the local revenue bill
requested by Johnston County and the bill introduced by former
County Commissioner, N. C. House Representative Bill Owens. The
bill proposed by Representative Owens would provide for an
additional one percent sales tax upon voter approval with the
proceeds being used for school construction, school renovation, or
debt service.
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The Johnston county bill is composed of three components: (1)
a land transfer tax with counties authorized to levy up to a
maximum of 2%; (2) a $750 impact fee on all new construction; and
(.3) a one percent sales tax for school facility needs without voter
.
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, MARCH 20, 1995
PAGE 591
approval. New Hanover County would generate $15,299,320 from a 2
percent land transfer tax; $2,231,250 from a $750 impact fee on new
construction; and $11,000,000 from a one percent sales tax.
County Manager O'Neal inquired as to whether the Board would
like to sign-on to the proposed local revenue bill introduced by
Johnston County (which would become a state-wide bill with support
from fifteen other counties), or the bill introduced by
Representative Owens?
Chairman Greer reported he did not have a problem with the
bill introduced by Representative Owens because the voters wou~d
have to approve the additional one percent sales tax for funding
school facility needs.
After further discussion of the bills introduced, no action
was taken. The members of the Board decided to contact the
legislators individually if they were supportive of either bill.
DISCUSSION OF FRpPOSED FLOW CONTROL LEGISLATION
County Attorney Copley reported a letter had been prepared for
the Chairman to oppose the flow control legislation introduced by
U. S. Senator Robert C. smith.
Consensus: It was the consensus of the Board for the Chairman to
forward a letter to the members of the Superfund, Waste Control and
Risk Assessment Subcommittee.
DISCUSSION OF QUALIFIED EXCEPTION FOR NEW HANOVER COUNTY FROM THE
PUBL!C RECORDS ACT FOR CERTAIN DATA ON THE GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION
SYSTEM
County Attorney Copley reported a local act had been prepared
to make a qualified exception for New Hanover County from the
Public Records Act for certain information on the geographical
information system. This act would allow the County to charge a
reasonable cost for making copies of geographical records and maps
as well as restrict the commercial resale of such information.
Motion: After discussion of the City and County funds invested in
the geographical information system, Commissioner Sisson MOVED,
SECONDED by Commissioner Barone to have the local act introduced
for New HanoVer County to receive a qualified exception from the
Public Records Act. The floor was opened for discussion. .
Chairman Greer reported he could not vote on the motion
because he had not been properly informed about the proposed bill.
Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS:
Voting Aye: Commissioner Barone
Commissioner Caster
commissioner Sisson
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Voting Nay: Chairman Greer
APPOINTMENT OF NEW MEMBERS TO SERVE ON THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE
PARTNERSHIP BOARD
Deputy County Manager, Andrew J. Atkinson, requested
appointment of Sherri Yelton and Jo Ann Zerella to serve on the
Criminal Justice Partnership Board.
Motion: commissioner Sisson MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman
Math~ws to appoint Sherri Yelton and Jo Ann Zerella to serve on the
Criminal Justice Partnership Board. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, ~CH 20, 1995 PAGE 592
ADJOURNMENT
Chairman Greer adjourned the meeting ,at 11:50 A.M.
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Respectfully submitted,
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Lucl.e F. Harrell
Clerk to the Board
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