1995-04-18 Regular Meeting
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,MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, APRIL 18, 1995
PAGE..:631
ASSEMBLY
The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners met in Regular
Session on Tuesday, 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.
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 0' Neal; County _
Attorney, Wanda M. Copley; and Deputy Clerk to the Board, Teresa P. ~
Elmore.
Chairman Greer called the meeting to order and welcomed
everyone present.
INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG
Minister Michael Hall of Bethesda Christian Life 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.
No comments were received.
APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA
Chairman Greer requested removal of Item #14 for further
discussion.
Motion: Commissioner Caster MOVED, SECONDED by commissioner
Sisson, to approve the items on the Consent Agenda as presented
wi th the exception of Consent Item #14. Upon vote, the MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
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CONSENT AGENDA
Approval of Minutes
The Commissioners approved the minutes of the Regular Meeting
of April 3, 1995, as presented by the Clerk to the Board.
Approval of RSVP Augmentation Grant Application
The Commissioners approved the application for the RSVP
Augmentation grant and acceptance of the grant if awarded. The
grant is for a program that will allow the senior games athletes to
work with fourth graders in physical fitness activities. The
funding of $15,527 will support one part-time staff member.
Award of Bid #95-0236 to Eastern Technology Associates for AS/400
Printers at the Department of Social Services
The Commissioners adopted a resolution awarding a bid to
Eastern Technology Associates, the lowest responsible bidder, in
the amount of $58,486, for the purchase of fourteen AS/400
printers.
A copy of the resolution is hereby. incorporated as a
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXII, Page 33.
of the contract is on file in the Legal Department.
part of
A copy
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Adoption of Resolutions requesting the Addition of Roads to the
State Highway System
The Commissioners adopted resolutions requesting the addition
of the following roads to the State Highway System:
Roads in Fox Run Farm Subdivision, section 4
Hermitage Drive
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~,MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, APRIL 18, 1995
PAGE .632
Copies of the resolutions are hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and are contained in Exhibit Book XXII, Page 33.
Approval of 1995-96 Consolidated Contract #95-0291 with the
Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources
The Commissioners approved the annual 1995-96 Consolidated
_Contract for the Health Department with the N. C. Department of
Environment, Health, and Natural Resources. The contract
establishes the terms and conditions of the activities to be
carried out by the Health Department. The funding is $1,838,716.
A,copy of the contract is on file in the Legal Department.
Approval for Waiver of Tipping Fee for Construction Debris from
cape Fear Habitat for Humanity
The Commissioners approved the continuation of a waiver of the
tipping fee for construction debris from home construction by the
Cape Fear Habitat for Humanity. The tipping fee has been waived
since 1991.
Authorization for the Sale of Surplus Property Jointly Owned by the
City of Wilmington and New Hanover county
The Commissioners authorized the sale of surplus property
owned by the city of Wilmington and New Hanover County, identified
as follows:
Parcel Number
R0054-13-012-015.000
Address
1012 South Fifth Street
Amount of Offer
$15,290.98
The property was acquired through tax foreclosure from Mr.
William L. Robinson; he has offered to purchase the property for an
amount equal to the back taxes and expenses.
A copy of the contract is on file in the Legal Department.
Award of Bid #95-0271 to Cost Containment, Inc. for Food stamp
Distribution services
The Commissioners adopted a resolution awarding a bid to Cost
Containment, Inc., the lowest responsible bidder, at the unit price
of $.33/regular and certified mail plus reimbursement of actual
postage and $1.15 for personal delivery for Food Stamp Distribution
Services.
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXII, Page 33.
of the contract is on file in the Legal Department.
part of
A copy
Release of Value
The Commissioners
penalty, as the taxpayer
released the following certification
listed on time in another county:
Valarie Hardison Pearsall
$100.00
The Commissioners released a value adjustment on the following
property because of conditions brought to the attention of the Tax
Department:
Bill Mewborn
$17,200
Acceptance of Tax Collection Reports through March 31, 1995
The Commissioners accepted the following Tax Collection
Reports through March 31, 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 33.
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rMINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, APRIL 18, 1995
PAGE.633
Approval of Contract #95-0281 with Post, Buckley, Schuh & Jernigan,
Inc. for Closure of Cell No. 3-A/3-B at County Landfill
The Commissioners approved the contract with Post, Buckley,
Schuh & Jernigan, Inc., in the amount of $35,091.00, for
construction services associated with the closure of Cell 3-A/3-B
at the County Landfill. The firm is currently designing the
closure cap.
A copy of the contract is on file in the Legal Department.
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Award of Contract #95-0286 to BMS Architects, P.C. to Design the
Outdoor Exhibit Area at the Cape Fear Museum
The Commissioners adopted a resolution awarding a contract to
BMS Architects, P.C., in the amount of $11,500, to design the
additions to the Outdoor Exhibit Area of the Cape Fear Museum.
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXII, Page 33.
of the contract is on file in the Legal Department.
part of
A copy
Approval of Budget Amendment 95-38 A and B - steam Plant Expansion
to the General Fund
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
95-38A and B steam Plant Expansion to General Fund
Debit
Credit
steam Plant Expansion
Interest
$43,721
steam Plant Expansion
Transfer to Other Fund (Fund 700)
$43,721
Waste to Enerqy Facility
Transfer in from Steam Plant Exp.
$43,721
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Wastec Administration
Contracted Services
$43,721
Non-Departmental Transfers
Transfer to Env. Management Fund
$43,721
commissioners' Office
Appropriated Fund Balance
$43,721
Wastec Administration
Contracted Services
$43,721
Waste to Enerqv Facility
Transfers In - Steam Plant
$43,721
Purpose: For accounting purposes only, to close Fund 715. Excess
funds left in Fund 715 will be transferred to the General Fund.
Approval of Budget Amendment 95-39 - Library capital Project
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
95-39 Library Capital project
Debit
Credit
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Library Capital pro4ect
Sales Tax Refund
Interest
$11,171
3,347
Librarv Capital pro4ect
Transfer to General Fund
General Contract
Contingency
$14,800
$ 57
225
Purpose: For accounting purposes only, to close Fund 320. Excess
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, APRIL 18, 1995
PAGE .634
funds left in Fund 320 will be transferred to the General Fund.
Approval of Budget
Transportation
The Commissioners
Amendment
Human
Services
95-0163
approved the following Budget Amendment:
95-0163 - Human Services Transportation
Debit
Credit
Human Services Transportation
DOT 18-B 2 Vans (Federal)
DOT Vans-18 (State)
$60,756
16,150
Human Services Transportation
TOP Match $9,889
Motor Vehicles
$86,795
Purpose: To increase budget for cost of three vans for the
Transportation System.
Approval of Budget Amendment 95-0164 - Sheriff's Department
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
95-0164 - Sheriff's Department
Debit
Credit
Sheriff's Department
Other Revenue
$11,195
Sheriff's Department
Motor Vehicles
$11,195
Purpose: To increase the budget for money received from gambling
(illegal lottery).
Approval of Budget Amendment #95-0165 To Budget Insurance Proceeds
from the Leader Construction Company Lawsuit
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
95-0165 - Finance Department/Outside Agencies Economic and Physical
Development
Debit
Credit
Finance Department
Other
$50,000
outside Aoencies - Economic
and Phvsical Development
Airport
$50,000
Purpose: To budget insurance proceeds from the final settlement of
t~e Leader Construction Company lawsuit to the Airport for
necessary repairs.
Approval of Budget Amendment #95-0166 to Transfer Funds from
contingencies to Begin an Account for Expenses of the Consolidation
Study Commission
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
95-0166 - Non-Departmental
Debit
Credit
Non-Departmental
Contingencies $10,000
Consolidation Study Committee $10,000
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Purpose: To transfer funds from contingencies to the Consolidation
Study Commission for related expenses.
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, APRIL 18, 1995
PAGE.:635
Approval of Budget Amendment #95-0167 for Health Department/vector
Control
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
95-0167 - Health Department/vector Control
Debit
Credit
Health Dept./Vector Control
other
$1,931
Departmental Supplies
$1,931
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Purpose: To budget additional insurance payments for items stolen
from truck on November 7, 1994.
Approval of Budget Amendment 95-45 - Sheriff's Department
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
95-45 - Federal Forfeited property/Sheriff's Department
Debit
Credit
Federal Forfeited Property
Federal Forfeited Property
$8,725
Capital Outlay
$8,725
Purpose: To increase the budget for revenue received on March 16,
1995, in the amount of $8,725. Federal Forfeited Property funds
are budgeted as received and must be used for law enforcement
activities as the Sheriff deems necessary.
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APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEM 1,4 A AND B, AUTHORIZATION TO
WITHHOLD FUNDS FROM GROUP III (GENERAL CONTRACTOR FOR THE ANIMAL
CONTROL FACILITY) AND TO INCREASE CONTRACT AMOUNT TO BMS
ARCHITECTS, P.C.
Chairman Greer asked if all contracts have a clause to impose
a penalty if a project is not completed by a specified date.
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Attorney Copley responded that all project contracts have a
liquidated damages clause with the amount ranging from $100 to $500
per day.
Project Engineer George Shaw responded the liquidated damages
on the Group III contract was set at $500 per day. Instead of
imposing the full amount of liquidated damages, which is about $60-
70,000, the County assessed the damages at $6,000. If excessive
liquidated damages are assessed, a contractor generally files a
lawsuit in order to get the remainder of his money.
Attorney Copley stated the County can prove the actual damage
of $6,000, because the architect has charged the County for
additional services due to the delay in the project. The County
needs to withhold $6,000 to expend for architectural expenses
charged by BMS Architect.
Chairman Greer asked what caused the delay in the completion
of the facility.
Mr. Shaw answered the pre-engineered building was mis- 0
fabricated and Group III did not staff the job adequately with
competent personnel.
Commissioner Sisson commented that many subcontractors are not
qualified to do a job; however, they receive the contract because
they have the low bid. The result is faulty work.
Chairman Greer stated the County should not release the
contractors from the liquidated damages. If the clause is in the
contract, the contractor should be forced to live up to that
obligation. The new facility should have opened in October;
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.MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, APRIL 18, 1995
PAGE 636
however,
expenses
pay.
it opened in April. The old location incurred extra
because of the delay and the contractor should have to
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County Manager O'Neal stated in the past, this type situation
may have gone unchecked. However, with a project engineer looking
after the County's interest, there will be more assessments made on
future projects. The $6,000 assessment is an equitable amount for
which the County was wronged or damaged. Counties do not normally
assess the full amount ,of liquidated damages unless it is for a
short period of time or if there is a critical reason for a new
facility to open on a certain date.
Mr. Shaw reported a utility project was delayed for 6 months
and the County assessed the total liquidated damages of $300 per
day. The contractor sued successfully because the County was
unable to prove that there were actual damages because of the
delay. If the County was actually losing income, then damages
could be proven. Since the old animal control facility was still
in operation, the County was not significantly damaged. If we
could prove an unsafe or unsanitary condition, the County may have
a case.
Mr. Shaw reported the work project at the 911 Center will have
to be completed by the end of June or the County will be liable for
damages to Intergraph. The electrical contractor will be held
accountable even if he is 3 days late and he will be assessed the
liquidated damages.
Motion: Chairman Greer MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Caster, to
authorize withholding $6,000 from the payment to Group III, and to
approve the payment of $6,000 to BMS Architects for expenses
incurred. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. -
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PRESENTATION OF NEW HANOVER COUNTY RETIREMENT PLAQUES
Chairman Greer, on behalf of the Board, presented retirement
plaques of appreciation to the rollowing former County employees
and wished them a happy retirement:
Name
Years of Service
Adley A. Bass
Peggy S. Beasley
Tax Department
Sheriff's Department
13 years, 8 months
10 years
PRESENTATION OF NEW HANOVER COUNTY EMPLOYEE SERVICE AWARDS
County Manager O'Neal requested the following employees to
step forward to receive service awards:
Patrick M. CUdicio, Tax Department
Karen H. Smith, Sheriff's Department
Jean P. McNeil, Health Department
Carolyn K. Clontz, DSS
Marla L. Hubbard, DSS
Phyllis R. Reynolds, DSS
Donna N. Willetts, DSS
5 years
5 years
5 years
5 years
5 years
5 years
5 years
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Timothy R. Karp, Sheriff's Department
Tony P. Roberts, Inspections Department
Jeffrey Olson, DSS
10 years
10 years
10 years'
Sandra E. Cyphers, Tax Department
Phyllis T. Yow, Register of Deeds
. Dexter Hayes, Planning Department
Linda D.. Berry, Department of Aging
Amelia Sidbury, Library
15 years
15 years
15 years
15 years
15 years
>
Eleanor T. Callum, Law Library
-
20 years_,
Chairman Greer, on behalf of the Board, expressed appreciation
to these employees for their dedicated years of service.
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IMINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, APRIL 18, 1995
PAGE..637
CONSIDERATION OF A REQUEST TO PROCLAIM APRIL 22, 1995 AS "EARTH
DAY" IN NEW HANOVER COUNTY
Nancy Pritchett, Director of Keep America Beautiful, requested
the Commissioners to proclaim April 22, 1995, as "Earth Day" in New
Hanover County. She invited the Commissioners to join in the
special activities planned for the 25th anniversary of celebrating
"Earth Day."
Motion: Commissioner Sisson MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman 0
Mathews, to adopt the Resolution proclaiming April 22, 1995, as
"Earth Day" in New Hanover County. 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 33.
CONSIDERATION OF A REQUEST TO PROCLAIM MAY 14-20, 1995, AS
"EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES WEEK" IN NEW HANOVER COUNTY
Motion: Commissioner Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner
Sisson, to adopt the proclamation declaring May 14-20, 1995, as
"Emergency Medical Services Week" in New Hanover county. Upon
vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
A copy of the proclamation is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXII, Page 33.
CONSIDERATION OF A REQUEST TO ADOPT
GREGORY CONGREGATIONAL UNITED CHURCH
ANNIVERSARY
A RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING
OF CHRIST ON ITS 125TH
Motion: Commissioner Barone
Sisson, to adopt the resolution
United Church of Christ on its
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner
recognizing Gregory Congregational
125th Anniversary. Upon vote, the
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Chairman Greer expressed congratulations and presented the
resolution to Mrs. Avery Jones, representing Gregory Congregational
united Church. Mrs. Jones extended an invitation to the
Commissioners to join their celebration at a church picnic on April
29, 1995.
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXII, Page 33.
CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION IN OPPOSITION TO THE PROPOSED CHANGE IN
PUBLIC RECORDS LAWS
Mr. Bill Clontz, M.I.S. Director, stated New Hanover County
has always strived to provide data information upon request to the
public; computer terminals are available for use and staff provides
assistance. In 1990, the Commissioners adopted a reasonable policy
that balances confidentiality of data and the pUblic's right to
know. Of the many requests received, the County has had one
individual taking exception to the policy, which resulted in a law
suit. The case was dismissed by the courts.
Mr. Clontz reported a bill has been introduced by Senator Sam
Cooper of Nash County that would impose a heavy workload and
substantial costs to New Hanover County. The bill would require 0
counties to perform expensive services without the opportunity of
full cost recovery. The County would be forced to prepare data in
various formats for any agency or business, which would put limits
on our system. Confidential and non-confidential data would need
to be separated, which would require a substantial amount of time.
Since there is no way to recover the cost, the proposed bill
creates an unfunded mandate because of the financial burden and
workload placed on the county. It is estimated that the initial
cost to the County will be $298,000, with an annual cost of
$410,000.
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, APRIL 18, 1995
PAGE 638
He urged the Commissioners to adopt
proposed legislation and to request
delegation to vote against the bill.
a resolution opposing the
the local legislative
Motion: Commissioner Barone stated that the resolution opposing
the bill should be revised to include a statement that the bill
would impose an unfunded mandate on counties. She, therefore
MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Caster, to amend the proposed
resolution by including "Whereas, the proposed legislation is an
unfunded mandate imposed on the County," and to adopt the
resolution opposing Senate Bill 426. Upon vote, the MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
In further discussion, the commissioners decided to discuss
the matter with the local legislators at the Legislative
Coordinating Council meeting on April 24, 1995.
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXII, Page 33.
CONSIDERATION OF ENDORSEMENT OF LIMITED HOUSEHOLD WASTE COLLECTION
DAY ON MAY 13, 1995
Phil Ricks, Cooperative Extension Service Director and member
of the Emergency Planning Committee, requested the Commissioners to
allow County staff to conduct a limited Collection Day for Special
Household Waste in New Hanover County on May 13, 1995. The plan is
to collect waste motor oils, tires, anti-freeze, paints, unbroken
automobile batteries, dry cell alkaline batteries, and cardboard.
Collections will be conducted by volunteer personnel and vendors at
no expense to the County. The collection day will be very
significant in removing a portion of the hazardous materials from
the wastestream. The committee has worked for four years in
developing the program that is similar to programs in other
communities of the state. Liability and safety issues have been
adequately addressed.
Vice-Chairman Mathews inqui~ed if the one day collection would
be sufficient in collecting all of the household hazardous waste in
the County.
Mr. Ricks responded that the scheduled collection day will
allow staff the opportunity to gauge future plans. Hopefully,
subsequent activities will be planned.
commissioner Barone commented on the outrageous amount of
paperwork and staff time required because of the federal
regulations. It is disgusting that the government imposes this
type of constraint on volunteers before they can work with the
communitYcin protecting the environment.
Motion: Commissioner Sisson MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman
Mathews, to endorse the Limited Collection Day for Special
Household Waste on May 13, 1995, and for the Emergency Planning
Committee to explore other opportunities to remove hazardous waste
from the wastestream. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
CONSIDERATION OF REQUEST BY THE BOARD OF EDUCATION TO CHANGE THE
METHOD OF FINANCING ON THE PURCHASE OF THE SEIMENS PROPERTY
County Manager O'Neal reported the attorneys for the Board of
Education felt uneasy with expending funds on the seimens Property
when the Board of Education does not own the facility. Therefore,
the School Board has approved using the School's Fund Balance to
purchase the Seimens property rather than the County financing the
purchase through a third party. The County will reimburse the
Board of Education, in the amount of $200,000 per year for five
years, with a savings to the County of $188,394.60 in interest
payments. The County has received notification that no
environmental problems exist on the property. The County budget
will have a special line item to indicate the payment to the school
system.
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, APRIL 18, 1995
PAGE. :639
commissioner sisson stated the County budget should clearly
indicate the additional money the County will provide to the school
system. The School Board tends to blame the County for all of
their building problems when the County has always been supportive
and willing to work with the School Board on land purchases and
capital needs.
Motion: Commissioner Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner
Barone, to approve reimbursement of $200,000 per year for five
years to the Board of Education on the purchase of the Seimens
property. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
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MEETING CONVENED FROM REGULAR SESSION TO HOLD A MEETING OF THE NEW
HANOVER COUNTY WATER & SEWER DISTRICT
Chairman Greer convened from Regular Session at 9:55 A.M.
until 10:04 A.M. to hold a Regular Meeting of the Water & Sewer
District.
BREAK
Chairman Greer called a break from 10:05 A.M. until 10:25
A.M.
MEETING CONVENED FROM REGULAR SESSION TO HOLD A MEETING OF THE
BOARD OF EQUALIZATION AND REVIEW
Chairman Greer convened from Regular Session at 10:25 A.M.
until 10:35 A.M. to hold a meeting of the 1995 Board of
Equalization and Review.
COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS
Appointment of Vernon Hicks and Reappointment of Raymond L.
Ballard, Jeffrey R. Bellows, Nello Filippini and Larry Flowers to
Serve on the New Hanover County Building Committee
Chairman Greer announced there were five vacancies on the
Building Committee with four applicants eligible for reappointment.
He opened the floor to receive nominations.
o
commissioner Barone MOVED, SECONDED BY Commissioner caster, to
reappoint Raymond L. Ballard, Jeffrey R. Bellows, Nello Filippini,
and Larry Flowers to serve another three years on the Building
Committee, with the terms to expire on April 30, 1998. Upon vote,
the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Vice-Chairman Mathews nominated Vernon Hicks. The nomination
was seconded by Commissioner sisson.
There being no further nominations, Chairman Greer declared
the nominations closed.
Vote: Chairman Greer called for a vote on the appointment of
Vernon Hicks. Upon vote, Vernon Hicks was unanimously appointed to
serve a three-year term on the Building Committee with the term to
expire on April 30, 1998.
Appointment of Nora B.
Advisory Committee
Chairman Greer reported there was one vacancy on
Home Advisory Committee. The current member does
reappointment and one application has been received.
Bednarczyk to Serve on the Nursing Home
the Nursing
not desire
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Motion: Commissioner Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner
Barone, to appoint Nora B. Bednarczyk to serve on the Nursing Home
Advisory Committee for an initial term of one year to expire April
30, 1996. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. .. .
ADDITIONAL ITEMS
ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING THE 117TH ANNIVERSARY OF MT.
ARARAT A.M.E. CHURCH
Chairman Greer announced a resolution had been prepared to
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.MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, .APRIL 18, 1995
PAGE 6'40
recognize the 117th anniversary of Mt. Ararat A.M.E. Church.
Motion: Commissioner sisson MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner
Caster, to adopt a resolution recognizing the 117th Anniversary of
Mt. Ararat A.M.E. Church. 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 33.
CONSIDERATION OF REQUEST TO AWARD CONTRACT TO HARRIS ELECTRIC
COMPANY FOR THE ELECTRICAL UPGRADE AT THE 911 CENTER
Project Engineer George Shaw reported in order to get the
Computer Aided Dispatch System on line at the 911 Center, the
Uninterrupted Power Supply System (UPS) will need to be replaced
with a larger system. The system needs to be in operation by the
end of June because of commitments with Intergraph. The plans and
specifications were completed in late March; the job had been
advertised and five competitive bids were received. He recommended
to award the bid to Harris Electric, the lowest responsible bidder,
in the amount of $238,670.
Mr. Shaw reported the other work projects for the capital
project include: replacing an existing 2,000 gallon fuel tank with
a double-wall tank; removing an existing L.P. gas generator;
replacing an existing tank with a 3,000 gallon double-wall, fuel-
storage tank; and installing a 200 KW generator, which will provide
power to the new UPS system and the air conditioning system for the
dispatch area and emergency operations area.
Chairman Greer commented he had voted to approve the CAD
system because he thought the Sheriff's Department had money
available for the project.
County Manager O'Neal responded that the CAD System receives
funding from the $.50 - 911 surcharge fee.
commissioner Barone stated the commissioners had requested an
update on the collection of 911 surcharge fees from the Budget
Director. Previously, the commissioners were told that the County
received $38,000 a month from the surcharge. with the increase in
the number of cellular phones, fax machines and regular telephones,
the monthly collection should be larger. The Commissioners need to
know how much money is collected in order to determine how much
longer the fee needs to be assessed.
Chairman Greer asked what other cost will be incurred with the
project that the Commissioners do not know about.
Mr. Shaw answered that whoever ordered the equipment would
have known that the CAD system would require a new UPS system. The
current UPS system, rated at 12KBA, barely handles the existing
load of 7KBA. The new computer system requires 54KBA; however,
the new UPS system is designed for 80KBA.
Chairman Greer asked if there are plans to move the 911
Center.
County Manager O'Neal stated the modifications made to the Law
Enforcement Center were to accommodate the CAD system. It would be
too expensive to move the equipment.
Vice-Chairman Mathews stated the security of the 911 Center
should be examined to see if it is sufficient. He expressed
concern about safety and security with the windows.
County Manager O'Neal replied that he would meet with Mr. Shaw
to discuss the matter.
Chairman Greer asked if the project has to be completed during
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, APRIL 18, 1995
PAGE :6'41
this fiscal year, why is the budget amendment for $50,000.
County Manager O'Neal reported that $198,000 is in the project
budget; however, an additional $50,000 is needed to complete the
proj ect and for contingency. Any unexpended funds will be
returned.
Chairman Greer asked if the new generator will support all of
the building.
o
Mr. Shaw responded that there will be two generators. One
generator will backup the jail's functions, and the new generator
will backup the new UPS system and the new air conditioning system.
The old generator will be used by Emergency Management.
Motion: Vice-Chairman Mathews MOVED, SECONDED by commissioner
sisson, to award the bid for the electrical upgrade to Harris
Electric Company, the lowest responsible bidder, in the amount of
$238,670, and to approve the budget amendment for additional funds.
Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Budget Amendment #95-43 - computer Aided Dispatch system Capital
Project
Debit
Credit
Computer Aided Dispatch System
Transfer in From Fund 140
(Emergency Telephone Fund)
$50,000
Capital Project Expense
$50,000
Emerqency Telephone Fund
911 Surcharge
$50,000
Transfer out to CAD Fund
$50,000
o
Purpose: To increase budget for anticipated costs to complete the
Uninterrupted Power Supply upgrade.
DISCUSSION OF TELEVISING THE COMMISSIONERS MEETING
Commissioner Barone asked the status of televising the
Commissioners' meetings.
county Manager O'Neal reported the Commissioners had an
opportunity several months ago to become a part of the system the
city uses to televise their meetings; however, the Commissioners
rejected the offer.
commissioner Barone requested the County Manager to resubmit
the item for reconsideration.
DISCUSSION OF PROPOSED RESOLUTION ON EARTHQUAKE PLANNING. AND
PREPAREDNESS TRAINING
Vice-Chairman Mathews commented on the memo from Dan Summers,
Director of Emergency Management, requesting the Commissioners to
adopt a resolution in support of earthquake planning and
preparedness training. Also, Mr. Summers requested the
Commissioners to direct him to investigate the placement of seismic
equipment in the Wilmington Area.
o
Motion: Vice-Chairman Mathews felt the citizens would like to have
the equipment because of their concerns with the number of
rumblings and tremors experienced in the area. He, therefore,
MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Sisson, to place a resolution
concerning earthquake planning on the agenda for consideration.
Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS:
Voting Aye:
commissioner Barone
Commissioner Caster
commissioner Sisson
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, APRIL 18, 1995
PAGE 642
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Voting Nay:
Chairman Greer
Chairman Greer stated he would not be in favor of spending tax
dollars on equipment that would not be of real benefit to the
taxpayers.
DISCUSSION OF REQUESTING THE AIRPORT AUTHORITY AND THE FAA TO
RECONSIDER ALLOWING THE WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT TO BE LOCATED ON
AIRPORT PROPERTY
Vice-Chairman Mathews stated the Commissioners need to approve
a site for the wastewater treatment plant in the near future. One
of the sites under consideration is off of Twenty-third street on
Airport property. The property had been surveyed and the engineers
stated the site was acceptable. To use the site for the wastewater
treatment plant, the Commissioners will need to amend the lease
with the Airport Authority to remove the sixteen acres from the
lease and to request the Airport Authority to assist the County in
getting approval from the FAA.
Motion: Vice-Chairman Mathews MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner
Sisson, to request the Airport Authority to remove the sixteen-acre
site from the Airport lease and to assist the County in persuading
FAA to approve the site for the location of the wastewater
treatment plant. The floor was opened to discussion.
Chairman Greer stated he was not in favor of pursuing the site
for the wastewater treatment plant because the Airport Authority
did not want the plant located on Airport property and the FAA had
rejected the site.
Vice-Chairman Mathews stated the FAA rejected the site because
of some contention that birds were a problem in the area of the
proposed site. The USDA had surveyed the site and found that birds
were not a problem. In the past two years, there have been four
bird strikes and none have been in the vicinity of the proposed
site. If the FAA approves the site, the County would save a lot of
money. If the FAA director in Atlanta will not change the ruling,
then the County should contact the FAA director in Washington. The
County has a reasonable argument to request the FAA to reconsider.
commissioner Barone commented if we can save money by using
County property, we owe it to the taxpayers to make every effort to
use the site. If we are unable to use the site, then the County
can pursue purchasing other property.
commissioner Sisson commented that part of the original
objection from FAA was based on information from the Airport
Authority. Because of the potential cost savings to the County,
the Commissioners need to enlist the cooperation of the Airport
Authority to persuade the FAA to change their ruling. Recently,
the County was cooperative with the Airport Authority in providing
money for a helicopter repair facility and he felt the Airport
should cooperate with the County.
Commissioner Caster commented that the
explicit and it appeared that their minds were
if the FAA had received the USDA findings.
Vice-Chairman Mathews stated the FAA received the USDA letter
a year ago; but had not responded to the County.
FAA letters were
made up. He asked
Chairman Greer asked Mr. Blanchard how should the County
pursue FAA.
Mr. Blanchard responded that Mr. Walter Bauer, the FAA Program
Manager in Atlanta, will be visiting our area in two weeks. The
Airport Authority and the County need to meet with him at that
time.
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:MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, APRIL 18, 1995
PAGEl', 6'43
County Manager O'Neal stated the Commissioners should meet
with the Airport Authority to discuss the Board's concerns and
intentions. The Airport Authority may need to make a formal
lamendment to the FAA on their Airport Master Plan. He suggested
staff work with the Airport Director to see how the county's plan
would effect the Airport.
Chairman Greer stated since this is a Water and Sewer District
issue and that he is not in favor of approaching the Airport
Authority or the FAA in this matter, the Chairman of the Water and
Sewer District may want to take the lead in the negotiations.
o
Vice-Chairman Mathews stated he would be glad to take the
lead; however, the Board of Commissioners will have to approve any
land transactions or lease agreements.
Vice-Chairman Mathews asked Mr. Blanchard how much will it
cost to purchase other property in that area.
Mr. Blanchard answered that the cost would be over $200,000.
Vice-Chairman Mathews responded that $200,000 will connect a
lot of sewer lines. He felt the County should not spend money to
purchase property when property is available at the Airport.
Vote: Chairman Greer called for a vote.
CARRIED AS FOLLOWS:
Upon vote, the MOTION
Voting Aye:
commissioner Barone
Commissioner Sisson
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Voting Nay:
commissioner Caster
Chairman Greer
o
County Manager O'Neal asked if Vice-Chairman Mathews will be
the contact person for the negotiating.
Vice-Chairman Mathews asked the County Attorney to respond on
the legal concerns.
Attorney Copley responded that whatever the Commissioners
desire will be acceptable; however, the lease agreement will need
to be approved by the Commissioners and the Airport Authority.
Vice-Chairman Mathews can take the lead on behalf of the Water and
Sewer District.
DISCUSSION OF PURCHASING PROPERTIES FOR SCHOOL FACILITIES
Commissioner Sisson reported he had recently learned that
school boards are allowed to receive a 20% tax break if they
purchase property adjacent to existing schools for expansions. He
would like to encourage the school board to consider the tax break
when purchasing property. Currently, there is property available
adjacent to the Snipes School. It would be more cost effective and
truly a benefit to the school and community to purchase the
property for a school expansion.
DISCUSSION OF CONSOLIDATION ISSUES
Dr. Sisson reported on consolidation efforts by the Public
Safety Committee on integrating the City and County fire
departments. The group is examining the cost effectiveness of both
systems. It was pointed out to the Council members that the
volunteer fire departments save the county $10 million a year. It
may not be cost effective to have fire stations every 1.5 miles as
in the city. Hopefully, the Committee can provide enough cost
figures to the Budget and Finance Committee to enable them to
calculate budget estimates.
o.
Vice-Chairman Mathews commented that City Fire Chief Hill and
Mr. Pinho, Fire Commissioner, have been very helpful to the
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, APRIL 18, 1995
PAGE 644
Committee with their ideas and comments.
commissioner sisson stated the volunteer fire departments are
speaking as one voice instead of seven separate voices.
Chairman Greer reported at the meeting on May 1, 1995, the
Charter Committee will give a report and important decisions will
need to be made by the joint board at that time. Prior to voting,
the Boards will need to decide a fair method of voting since the
city Council has a seven member board and the Board of
Commissioners has a five member board. Either the City Council
should have five votes or the Commissioners have seven votes to
make the voting equitable. We do not want the consolidation
efforts to end because of a standoff between the Boards.
County Manager O'Neal stated that the County will talk with
Jake Wicker, with the Institute of Government, to see if he has a
suggestion. Mr. O'Neal suggested that the Commissioners could have
a weighted vote; however, that may be cumbersome.
commissioner sisson commented that the Commissioners could
insist on having a majority vote since the Commissioners were
elected by the beach communities and the residents of the city of
Wilmington. If the Boards agree to equal voting, the Commissioners
are still making a concession.
Chairman Greer requested the County Manager to discuss the
matter with city staff to let the Council members know that the
Board is trying to resolve the inequity in voting and to receive
their input as well.
County Manager O'Neal reported Staff will discuss the matter
with City Staff when they meet on the Charter Committee's directive
regarding recommendations for the two boards transition period.
ADJOURNMENT
Chairman Greer adjourned the meeting at 11:30 A.M.
Respectfully submitted,
J~P~
Teresa P. Elmore
Deputy Clerk to the Board
J