1996-06-17 Regular Meeting
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 25
REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 17, 1996PAGE 441
ASSEMBLY
The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners met in Regular
Session on Monday, June 17, 1996, at 9:00 A.M. in the Assembly Room
of the New Hanover County Administration Building, 320 Chestnut
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 all
persons present.
INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG
Deputy County Manager, Andrew J. Atkinson, gave the
invocation.
Chairman Greer led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance to
the Flag.
NON-AGENDA ITEMS
Chairman Greer announced that time was reserved to allow
anyone from the public to introduce an item not listed on the
Regular Agenda or comment on an item listed on the Consent Agenda.
He requested all persons speaking to limit their remarks to three
minutes.
The following item was presented:
Discussion of Blackmon Construction Company Site
Ms. Vaness Brown Middleton requested the Board to discuss the
Blackmon Construction Company site located off of Carolina Beach
Road as an agenda item for July 1, 1996. She advised the Board
that Blackmon Construction Company had operated a dump site in a
residentially zoned area for a period of six years under a State
permit issued for highway construction. Due to this operation,
trucks have become a nuisance and created a traffic hazard to the
residents living along this section of Carolina Beach Road. Many
of the residents are concerned about the problems being created
from this operation and would like for the Board to assist them
with terminating this operation in a residentially zoned area.
Mr. Alfred Middleton expressed concern for not receiving State
maintenance of the road. He advised that his parents' home had
nearly been destroyed because of the dust created by the trucks
passing by the residence. At the beginning of the operation, the
local N. C. Department of Transportation had agreed to water down
the road; however, this has not occurred. When contacting the
local Department of Transportation office to request proper
maintenance, no response has been received.
Chairman Greer expressed appreciation to Mr. & Mrs. Middleton
for bringing this matter to the attention of the Board, and he
requested Staff to check into this matter and report their findings
to Mr. and Mrs. Middleton and the Board of County Commissioners.
If any Board action is required, then this item will be placed on
the agenda for consideration at a future meeting.
INTRODUCTION OF NEW FIRE SERVICES ADMINISTRATOR
County Manager, Allen O'Neal, introduced Mr. Phil Kouwe, the
new Fire Services Administrator.
Chairman Greer, on behalf of the Board, welcomed Mr. Kouwe to
New Hanover County and wished him well in his new position.
PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER CLOSING WATERCREST STREET IN BRANDYWINE
SUBDIVISION CONTINUED TO JULY 1, 1996
Chairman Greer announced that Item 3, Continuance of a Public
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 25
REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 17, 1996PAGE 442
Hearing to consider closing Watercrest Street in Brandywine
Subdivision, had been postponed until July 1, 1996, at 7:30 P.M. in
order to provide a better opportunity for the public to attend and
comment on the road closing.
POSTPONEMENT OF APPOINTMENTS TO THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF
FIRE COMMISSIONERS UNTIL JULY 1, 1996
Chairman Greer announced that due to some revisions in the By-
Laws for the New Hanover County Board of Fire Commissioners, the
committee appointments had been postponed until July 1, 1996.
APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA
Chairman Greer announced that a revision to Budget Amendment
#96-0237 (Consent Agenda 10-I) had been presented and requested the
Board to adopt the Budget Amendment as revised when approving the
Consent Agenda.
Chairman Greer requested removal of Consent Agenda Item #8 for
further discussion.
Motion: Commissioner Sisson MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Caster
to approve the Consent Agenda as presented with approval of the
revision to Budget Amendment #96-0237 and removal of Item #8 as
requested by Chairman Greer. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
CONSENT AGENDA
Approval of Minutes
The Commissioners approved the following sets of minutes as
presented by the Clerk to the Board:
Regular Meeting, May 6, 1996
Work Session with Airport Authority, May 10, 1996
Work Session on Hospital Bond Issue, May 16, 1996
Work Session on Internet, May 20, 1996
Work Session with Cape Fear Community College, May 23, 1996
Budget Work Session, May 30, 1996
Acceptance of Tax Collection Reports Through May 31, 1996
The Commissioners accepted the following Tax Collection
Reports through May 31, 1996, as submitted by the Collector of
Revenue:
New Hanover County Tax Collections
New Hanover County Fire District Tax Collections
Copies of the Tax Collection Reports are hereby incorporated
as a part of the minutes and are contained in Exhibit Book XXIII,
Page 20.
Approval of Change Order 95-0281-01 with Post, Buckley, Schuh, &
Jernigan, Inc. for Landfill Cell 3A Inspection Services
The Commissioners approved a change order to Post, Buckley,
Schuh, & Jernigan, Inc. in the amount of $3,750 to pay for four (4)
additional days of inspection services during completion of the
liner installation. The cost for the additional services will be
recovered through liquidated damages assessed against the
contractor at the completion of the work.
A copy of the change order is on file in the Legal Department.
Adoption of Resolution for the Sale of Surplus Property Owned by
New Hanover County
The Commissioners adopted a resolution accepting an offer for
the sale of surplus property owned by New Hanover County identified
as follows:
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 25
REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 17, 1996PAGE 443
Parcel Number Tax Market
Value Value
RO5409-028-003.000 805 South 4th Street $1,863 $1,815
Amount of Offer: $1,815
Offerer:
Linwood Nesbitt & Wife, Eria W. Nesbitt
Tommy Lee Nesbitt & Wife, Phyllis Nesbitt
612 Bracken Fern Road
Wilmington, N. C. 28405
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXIII, Page 20.
Adoption of Resolution Conveying Jointly Owned City and County
Property to Wilmington Housing Finance and Development, Inc.
The Commissioners adopted a resolution conveying jointly owned
City and County property to Wilmington Housing Finance and
Development, Inc., for the construction of an owner-occupied,
single-family residence. The property is identified as follows:
Parcel Number Address Tax Value
048-09-038-022.000 911 North Fifth Street $2,051
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXIII, Page 20.
Award of Bid #96-0445 (Contract #96-0445) to Eastern Technology
Associates, Inc. for the Purchase of Printers for the Department of
Social Services
The Commissioners adopted a resolution awarding a bid in the
amount of $92,295 to Eastern Technology Associates, Inc., the
lowest responsible bidder, for the purchase of twenty-one AS/400
printers for the Department of Social Services. The Chairman was
authorized to execute the contract documents.
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXIII, Page 20.
A copy of the contract is on file in the Legal Department.
Adoption of Resolution Approving the Filing of a Grant Application
for a Drainage/Mosquito Control Project at Hamby Beach
The Commissioners adopted a resolution approving the filing of
a grant application and acceptance of the grant if awarded by the
Department of Environmental Health and Natural Resources Division
of Water Resources for a Drainage/Mosquito Control Project at Hamby
Beach. The drainage project is needed in the Hamby Beach area and
matching funds will be provided through in-kind services in the
amount of $43,785. No additional County funds are required. The
Chairman was authorized to execute the grant application.
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXIII, Page 20.
Reappointment of Teresa Goldston to Serve on the Nursing Home
Community Advisory Committee
The Commissioners reappointed Teresa Goldston to serve a
three-year term on the Nursing Home Community Advisory Committee
the representative for the Nursing Home Administrators. The term
will expire June 1, 1999.
Approval of Budget Amendment #96-51 - Sheriff's Department
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 25
REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 17, 1996PAGE 444
#96-51 Controlled Substance Tax
Debit Credit
Controlled Substance Tax
Controlled Substance Tax $8,575
Controlled Substance Tax
Supplies $8,575
Purpose: To increase the budget for additional revenue received.
Controlled Substance Tax funds are budgeted as received and must be
used for law enforcement activities as the Sheriff deems necessary.
Approval of Budget Amendment #96-52 - Parks Department
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
Parks Capital Project
Debit Credit
Parks Capital Project
LWCF - Castle Hayne Park Grant $14,213
Parks Capital Project
Other Improvements $14,213
Purpose: To increase the budget as a result of an amendment to the
grant.
Approval of Budget Amendment #96-53 - Sheriff's Department
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
#96-53 Federal Forfeited Property
Debit Credit
Federal Forfeited Property
Federal Forfeited Property $3,863
Federal Forfeited Property
Supplies $3,863
Purpose: To increase the budget for additional revenue received.
Federal Forfeited Property funds are budgeted as received and must
be used for law enforcement activities as the Sheriff deems
necessary.
Approval of Budget Amendment #96-0233 - Various Departments
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
#96-0233
Debit Credit
MIS
Installment Loan Proceeds $188,109
Sales of Fixed Assets 6,154
Capital Outlay/Equipment $194,263
EMS
Installment Loan Proceeds $145,544
Capital Outlay/Equipment $145,544
Health
Installment Loan Proceeds $ 46,548
Capital Outlay/Equipment $ 46,548
Social Services
Installment Loan Proceeds $ 45,437
Sales of Fixed Assets 6,154
Capital Outlay/Equipment $ 51,591
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 25
REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 17, 1996PAGE 445
(Budget Amendment #96-0233 continued)
Debit Credit
Water & Sewer
Installment Loan Proceeds $ 11,837
Capital Outlay/Equipment $ 11,837
Purpose: To record the remaining installment debt purchases for FY
1995-96 as follows (for accounting purposes only):
MIS:The purchase of the ROLM Telephone System upgrade and
equipment trade-in.
EMS:The purchase of Cardiac monitor/defibrillators.
Health:The purchase of the ROLM Telephone System upgrade.
DSS:The purchase of the ROLM Telephone System upgrade and
equipment trade-in.
W&S:The purchase of a pump.
Approval of Budget Amendment #96-0229 - Sheriff's Department
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
#96-0229 - Sheriff's Department Administration
Debit Credit
Sheriff's Department/Administration
Other $2,746
Fuel & Supplies $ 421
Salaries & Wages 2,325
Purpose: To budget a reimbursement from the Department of Justice
for overtime and fuel expenses incurred by the Sheriff's Department
during investigations.
Approval of Budget Amendment #96-0234 - Property Management
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
#96-0234 - Property Management
Debit Credit
Property Management
Other $12,700
Maintenance & Repair/Buildings & Grounds $12,700
Purpose: To budget insurance proceeds and receipts from selling
scrap metal.
Approval of Budget Amendment #96-0235 - Library
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
#96-0235 - Library
Debit Credit
Library
Contribution $8,275
Lost Books 3,525
Books & Periodicals $11,800
Purpose: To budget proceeds from the Friends of the Library book
sale and reimbursements from lost books.
Approval of Budget Amendment #96-0236 - New Hanover County Schools
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 25
REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 17, 1996PAGE 446
#96-0236 - New Hanover County Schools
Debit Credit
New Hanover County Schools
School Capital Outlay/Cat. I - Technology $4,653
School Capital Outlay/Cat. I - Partitions $4,653
Purpose: To transfer funds from Partitions to School Construction
for Technology (within School Capital Outlay Category I) as
requested by New Hanover County Schools from CATV System at New
Hanover High School (original appropriation changed more than 25
percent).
Approval of Revised Budget Amendment #96-0237 - 1/2 Cent Sales Tax
Fund
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
#96-0237 - 1/2 Cent Sales Tax Fund
Debit Credit
1/2 Cent Sales Tax Fund
1/2 Cent Article 40 Tax - Unrestricted $290,000
1/2 Cent Article 40 Tax - Schools 125,000
1/2 Cent Article 42 Tax - Unrestricted 162,000
1/2 Cent Article 42 Tax - Schools 245,000
Transfer to Public Schools Fund $370,000
Transfer to Other Funds - Sewer $452,000
Public Schools Fund
Transfer In - 1/2 Cent Sales Tax Fund $370,000
Appropriated Fund Balance $370,000
Sewer Operating Fund
Operating Transfer In $452,000
Appropriated Fund Balance $452,000
Purpose: To budget greater than anticipated One-Half Cent Sales
Tax revenue.
Approval of Budget Amendment #96-0238 - Tax Department/Outside
Agencies/Economic & Physical
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
#96-0238 - Tax Department Outside Agencies/Economic & Physical
Debit Credit
Tax Department
Room Occupancy Tax - Tourism $200,000
Outside Agencies/Economic & Physical
Convention & Visitors Bureau $200,000
Purpose: To budget an increase in the Room Occupancy Tax/Tourism
distribution to the Convention & Visitors Bureau. Additional
revenue is due to allocation change and greater than anticipated
tourism in the area.
Approval of Budget Amendment #96-0239 - Inspections Department
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
#96-0239 - Inspections
Debit Credit
Inspections
Inspection Fees $261,836
Capital Outlay $261,836
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 25
REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 17, 1996PAGE 447
Purpose: To budget greater than anticipated inspection fees to
begin the automation process in the Inspections Department. This
was approved in concept by the Board of County Commissioners in
February, 1996. (A portion of the funds may need to be part of the
carry-over to FY 1996-97.)
ACTION DEFERRED ON ADDING ROADS TO THE STATE HIGHWAY SYSTEM IN
QUAIL WOODS SUBDIVISION, SECTIONS 9 AND 10, AND AN UNNAMED ROAD OFF
OF ROCK HILL ROAD TO THE N. C. HIGHWAY SYSTEM
Chairman Greer commented on the memorandum received from Staff
Planner, Sam Burgess, relative to an unnamed road known as Whitted
Circle and roads in Quail Woods Subdivision and requested
postponement of action on the resolutions until a report has been
received from Staff.
Consensus: It was the consensus of the Board to postpone action on
the resolution until a report has been received from the Planning
Department.
PRESENTATION OF NEW HANOVER COUNTY SERVICE AWARDS
County Manager O'Neal requested the following County employees
to step forward to receive service awards:
Name Number of Years
Elizabeth B. Potter, Tax Department 15
Elinda P. Crowningshield, Sheriff's Dept. 15
Chairman Greer, on behalf of the Board, presented a service
award to each employee and expressed appreciation to them for their
years of dedicated service to New Hanover County.
RECOGNITION OF AWARD OF FINANCIAL REPORTING ACHIEVEMENT TO THE
FINANCE DEPARTMENT FOR FISCAL YEAR ENDING JUNE 30, 1995
Chairman Greer announced that official notification has been
received from the Government Finance Officers Association of the
United States and Canada that New Hanover County has qualified to
receive the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial
Reporting for the fifteenth consecutive year. He advised this was
the highest form of recognition in governmental and financial
reporting, and he requested the Director of Finance, Bruce Shell,
to step forward to receive the certificate and plaque.
Chairman Greer, on behalf of the Board, presented the
certificate and plaque and congratulated Finance Director, Bruce
Shell, and Assistant Finance Director, Julie Griffin, for this
outstanding record. He expressed appreciation to the Finance
Director and employees in the Finance Department for the dedicated
work given to accomplish this annual recognition.
CONSIDERATION OF THE FISCAL YEAR 1996-97 BUDGET ORDINANCES FOR NEW
HANOVER COUNTY AND THE SPECIAL FIRE DISTRICT
County Manager O'Neal reported at the Budget Work Sessions
held by the Board the following items were discussed and
recommended:
(1)Reduce funding for the Friends of Public Radio by $1,290 from
$7,290 to $6,000.
(2)Approve funding in the amount of $5,000 for the Bellamy
Mansion. No funding was recommended in the proposed budget.
(3)Approve funding in the amount of $10,000 to the Lower Cape
Fear Hospice. No funding was recommended in the proposed
budget.
(4)Approve funding in the amount of $13,500 to the Community
Penalties Program. No funding was recommended in the proposed
budget.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 25
REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 17, 1996PAGE 448
(5)Approve an additional $5,000 to the Big Buddy Program for a
total funding of $15,000.
(6)Approve funding in the amount of $100 to the New Hanover
Commission for Women. No funding was recommended in the
proposed budget.
(7)Approve funding in the amount of $10,000 to the Cape Fear
River Program.
(8)Appropriated $35,000 in the budget for hiring a Public
Information Officer for the last six months of FY 1996-97.
County Manager O'Neal advised that if the funding
recommendations for the outside agencies were approved as
presented, the total increase would be $42,310 plus the $35,000 for
establishment of a Public Information Officer for a total increase
of $77,310, not including schools. Also, discussion has occurred
about funding CAD eligible costs from the 911 Surcharge with a
transfer of these general funds to the schools.
At the June 13, 1996, Budget Work Session, it was agreed to
approve the following new positions for the Health Department and
Sheriff's Department with cost of the positions being absorbed in
the FY 1996-97 department budgets:
Health/Environmental Health - Program Specialist
Health/Animal Control - Clerical Specialist I
Sheriff/911 - Clerical Assistant I
Sheriff/Administration - One Deputy Sheriff (Desk)
Sheriff/Patrol - One Sergeant and three Deputy Sheriffs for
patrolling high crime areas.
Sheriff/Jail - Clerical Assistant from part-time to full-time
position.
Chairman Greer asked if the Health Director had been contacted
about absorbing the two new positions in the FY 1996-97 Budget?
Budget Director, Cam Griffin, advised that the two new
positions could be funded from the salary lag and additional
unanticipated revenues that will be received by the Health
Department. She stated that discussion had been held with the
Sheriff but not the Health Director because he has been out-of-
town.
Commissioner Barone commented on the volunteer program
established by the Animal Control Center and asked why there was a
need for the Clerical Specialist I position?
Budget Director Griffin advised that problems had been
experienced with the volunteers in the performance of office work
because the volunteers preferred to work directly with the animals
in lieu of answering telephones or performing data entry work.
County Manager O'Neal reported a lengthy discussion was held
on funding for the schools at the Budget Work Session held on June
13, 1996, with no final agreement reached. The following items
were suggested:
(1)Transfer the $300,000 budgeted for the Castle Hayne Branch
Library land acquisition to the schools.
(2)Increase the tax rate by an additional one-half cent or two
cents to provide more funding to the schools and assist with
payment of the debt service. This increase would be in
addition to the one cent tax increase recommended by the
County Manager.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 25
REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 17, 1996PAGE 449
(3)Transfer General Fund dollars not required to fund the 911
Center to the schools.
County Manager O'Neal presented five options to provide
additional funds to the schools. The following option was
discussed:
Option 2
Transfer $300,000 budgeted for the Castle Hayne $ 300,000
Branch Library land to the schools
Transfer funds replaced by budgeting the 911 $ 424,400
Surcharge to schools
Increase the tax rate by an additional half- $ 441,000
cent from 64 cents to 64.5 cents with
proceeds transferred to schools
Additional Contribution to schools $ 1,165,400
Additional increase in tax rate as referenced above .5 cent
Gap between schools' request and recommended budget $ 3,702,120
(without high school funding)
Total Contribution to Schools $33,408,567
Vice-Chairman Mathews expressed concern for using the $300,000
budgeted for land acquisition to construct a branch library in the
Castle Hayne area and inquired as to whether a time table had been
discussed for construction of the branch library? If not, could
some type of creative financing be used to purchase the property
over a period of time.
County Manager O'Neal responded no definite time table had
been established; however, the $192,750 needed to purchase the
property could be financed for five years with an annual payment of
$46,243 for four years and a final payment of $34,682 at the end of
the fifth year.
Commissioner Barone agreed with Vice-Chairman Mathews and
stated funding for the Castle Hayne Branch Library should not be
removed because the citizens in this area are continually promised
items that are never fulfilled by the Board.
Chairman Greer stated he could not remember voting as a Board
to purchase the property in the Castle Hayne area for construction
of a branch library. Also, the Board should consider leasing the
space since this type of an arrangement has worked well for the
Wrightsville Beach area.
County Manager O'Neal responded that he thought the Board had
agreed to move forward with purchasing a site for constructing a
branch library in the Castle Hayne area; however, Staff could
investigate the possibility of leasing space.
Commissioner Sisson reported leasing space at Wrightsville
Beach has worked well; therefore, the Board may wish to consider
selling or trading the property on the Military Cut-Off Road to
purchase property in the Castle Hayne area.
County Manager O'Neal reported the Plaza East Branch Library
was heavily used; therefore, it may not be wise to sell or trade
the land on Military Cut-Off Road because a larger facility will be
needed in the near future.
Commissioner Caster asked if a long-range plan had been
developed for the future location of branch libraries, including
renovations on the downtown building? County Manager O'Neal
responded that a long-range plan had not been developed.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 25
REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 17, 1996PAGE 450
Commissioner Caster stated in his opinion, a long-range plan
should be developed before purchasing any property for branch
libraries. He emphasized the need to provide more funding to the
schools and stated he was supportive of the library, but the school
needs were his first priority.
Ms. Janet Durham, a member of the Library Advisory Board,
reported on the growth in the usage of the library system. She
commented on the problems being experienced with parking at Plaza
East and reported with the continued growth in use of this
facility, the space would not be adequate in the near future. She
reported on the improvements and expansions that need to be made to
the Carolina Beach Branch Library, main Library, and Myrtle Grove
Branch Library and stated in order to meet these needs the Board
may wish to consider a library bond issue. Ms. Durham requested
the Board to consider purchasing the Castle Hayne site at $192,000
without budgeting for the architectural expenses and using creative
financing to pay for the property over a period of time.
Commissioner Barone advised that she felt the Library and
Museum should be privatized over a period of time.
Commissioner Caster recommended increasing the tax rate by an
additional one-half cent to cover the school bond debt and adopt
the FY 1996-97 Budget based upon the tax rate increasing from 63
cents to 64.5 cents along with the other items listed in Option 2.
Discussion was held on expenses that are eligible to be funded
from the proceeds of the 911 Surcharge. Budget Director Griffin
reported the following items are eligible for funding:
Equipment Rent:
Rent on Terminals $ 25,200
Rent on Radio Communications Equipment 169,912
$195,112
Contracted Service:
Contract with Intergraph for Mapping System $ 48,000
Contract with Intergraph for CAD System 66,288
$114,288
Telephone Expense:
Charges for Service $115,000
TOTAL ELIGIBLE CHARGES $424,400
Commissioner Sisson suggested increasing the tax rate by an
additional two cents in order to move forward with catching up on
maintenance needs for the schools that have been neglected for
decades. He placed emphasis on providing environmentally safe
buildings for students.
Commissioner Barone inquired as to the amount of the debt
service on the school bonds for the upcoming year?
County Manager O'Neal responded the debt service was
$1,522,717. Also, there will be an additional operating cost for
the new schools at $764,387 for a total of $2,287,104.
Commissioner Barone stated if the Board of Education had a
Budget Director like New Hanover County, the Commissioners would be
able to determine how basic funds are being spent. She stated, in
her opinion, the school budget is completely out of control and is
submitted without clearly defining the needs for each school or
breaking down the budget so everyone can see exactly where funds
are spent. School funding should be a high priority; however, the
budget process needs to be improved, and the $25 million of County
funding is never mentioned by the school system.
County Manager O'Neal stated with reference to Commissioner
Barone's comments, the following section has been added to the
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 25
REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 17, 1996PAGE 451
New Hanover County Budget Ordinance in an effort to better control
the funds appropriated to the schools:
Section 16: The Board of Education shall notify the County in
writing of any changes made to their planned capital fund
expenditures. The notification should include: (1) nature of
the change; (2) reason for the change; (3) dollar amount of
any expenditure change, by planned project; and (4) plans for,
and estimated cost of, completing planned project in the
future, if completion as originally anticipated will not be
possible.
Commissioner Caster recommended funding the schools under
Option II with the following modifications:
(1)Reduce the Castle Hayne Library appropriation of $300,000 to
$192,000 for purchase of property in the Castle Hayne area
contingent upon development of a Long-Range Plan for the New
Hanover County Library. The remaining $108,000 will be
transferred to the schools.
(2)Transfer funds in the amount of $317,000 of the 911 Surcharge
account to the schools leaving a balance of $107,400.
Commissioner Sisson commented on the desperate needs of the
schools and stated with the mandated State change in classroom
size, he felt at a minimum that Option 3 should be selected with
the changes recommended by Commissioner Caster. This would
increase the tax rate by an additional one cent and provide
additional funding of $1,000,000 to the schools.
Chairman Greer requested the Board to consider Option 2 with
the following modifications:
(1)Transfer $250,000 of the $300,000 budgeted for the Castle
Hayne Branch Library to the schools. The remaining $50,000
should be placed in the County's Contingency Account which
will reserve these funds until a plan is developed for the
branch library.
(2)Increase the tax rate by an additional one-half cent which
will provide $441,000 additional revenue for the schools.
(3)The additional contribution to the schools will be $750,000
without removing $77,000 from the fund balance. The
difference of approximately $80,000 should be transferred from
the 911 Surcharge Account.
Commissioner Caster agreed with Chairman Greer's
recommendation.
County Manager O'Neal presented the following figures based
upon the recommendation of Chairman Greer:
Transfer $250,000 from the $300,000 appropriated $250,000
for the Castle Hayne Branch Library.
Transfer $59,000 from the 911 Surcharge to schools 59,000
Increase the tax rate 1/2 cent to 64.5 cents 441,000
Total Contribution to Schools $750,000
Chairman Greer advised County Manager O'Neal that the
recommendation included transferring $50,000 into the Contingency
Account for the purchase of property in the Castle Hayne area for
a branch library.
County Manager O'Neal advised that a proposed contract has
been prepared for purchase of property in the Castle Hayne area for
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 25
REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 17, 1996PAGE 452
construction of a branch library. The closing date is scheduled
for July 3, 1996; therefore, the $50,000 could be used to begin the
financing of the property.
Chairman Greer expressed concern for moving too quickly with
the purchase of this site and directed Staff to prepare the
necessary figures and facts to discuss this item on July 1, 1996.
Motion: Commissioner Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Chairman Greer to
adopt the New Hanover County Budget Ordinance with acceptance of
Option 2 as recommended by Chairman Greer which will increase the
tax rate by an additional one-half cent and provide additional
funding of $750,000 to the schools for current operating expenses
with the tax rate increasing from 63 cents to 64.5 cents for FY
1996-97. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS:
Voting Aye: Commissioner Caster
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Chairman Greer
Voting Nay: Commissioner Barone
Commissioner Sisson
Commissioner Barone stated, for the record, she could not
support a budget with a tax increase.
Commissioner Sisson stated, for the record, he felt the tax
rate should have been increased by an additional one cent to
provide at least $1,000,000 of additional funding to the schools.
A copy of the Budget Ordinance for New Hanover County is
hereby incorporated as part of the minutes and is contained in
Exhibit Book XXIII, Page 20.
ADOPTION OF FISCAL YEAR 1996-97 BUDGET ORDINANCE FOR THE NEW
HANOVER COUNTY SPECIAL FIRE SERVICE DISTRICT
Chairman Greer reported the recommended budget for the Fire
District is presented with no change in the current tax rate of 2.5
cents; however, funds have been removed from the Fire District fund
balance.
Motion: Vice-Chairman Mathews MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner
Caster to adopt the Fiscal Year 1996-97 Budget Ordinance for the
New Hanover County Special Fire Service District with no change in
the current tax rate of 2.5 cents. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
A copy of the Budget Ordinance for the New Hanover County Fire
Service District is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes
and is contained in Exhibit Book XXIII, Page 20.
ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION FOR FISCAL YEAR 1996-97 OUTSIDE AGENCY
FUNDING
Motion: Commissioner Sisson MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Caster
to adopt the resolution authorizing and directing the County
Manager to enter into appropriate contracts with outside agencies
for the amount of funding approved in the Fiscal Year 1996-97
Budget. 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 XXIII, Page 20.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 25
REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 17, 1996PAGE 453
BREAK
Chairman Greer called a break from 10:35 A.M. until 10:55 A.M.
RECOMMENDATION FOR DISPOSITION OF RECYCLABLE MATERIALS
Director of Environmental Management, Ray Church, reported
requests for proposals were issued for the disposition of
recyclables collected through the county drop-off collection system
in order to reduce recycling costs while achieving greater
collection efficiency. Requests for proposals were forwarded to
eleven (11) companies and agencies locally involved in recycling,
of which four (4) responses were received. In addition, four (4)
companies were informally requested to submit proposals for siting
baling equipment at WASTEC, of which two (2) proposals were
received.
The proposals were evaluated by using the following
approaches:
(1)The use of static prices provided by one of the bidders,
with revenues projected based on those static prices over
the course of one year.
(2)A review of how the proposals would respond to the
various ranges of potential market prices. Charts were
developed to graphically illustrate what the rates of
return would be for each of the proposals.
Director Church reported based on the evaluations shown in the
recommendations, the County should directly market the following
materials: cardboard recovered from the WASTEC wastestream,
newspaper, aluminum, glass, and household batteries collected from
the County drop-off sites. Plastics No. 1, No. 2, and steel cans
should be transported to the Waste Management facility located on
the River Road. The County should continue its existing
relationship with Southern Metals Recycling for the market of metal
and white goods (appliances) collected at WASTEC and the Landfill.
The recommendations were based on siting baling equipment on
the WASTEC tipping floor with the primary intent to recover
corrugated cardboard from the waste that crosses the WASTEC scales.
Cardboard is a major constituent of the WASTEC wastestream that is
readily identifiable and recoverable. The logistics of the
operation are to have rear-loading trucks, which typically haul
residential trash, drop their loads on one side of the tipping
floor, and require front-loading trucks carrying commercial-type
trash to drop their loads on the side nearest the baling equipment.
The cost projections were developed based on using two (2)
temporary employees working five (5) hours per day, five (5) days
per week, to recover cardboard and bale the newspaper and aluminum
from the drop-off sites. Removing cardboard from the WASTEC
wastestream will enable removal of wood waste from the landfill for
energy recovery at WASTEC as well as provide a more efficient use
of the landfill resources.
The availability of baling equipment provides the County with
greater flexibility for marketing the materials currently collected
at the drop-off sites. The following proposal was recommended:
Paper Stock Dealers, a subsidiary of Sonoco Paper Products,
proposed to site a baler and in-feed conveyor on the tipping
floor for the recovery of corrugated cardboard from the
wastestream. This arrangement will provide 720 tons of baled
cardboard per year which equates to about 0.6% of the WASTEC
wastestream. If the recovered cardboard should grow beyond
capacity of the baler, Paper Stock Dealers/Sonoco will upgrade
the baling equipment at no charge. Also, Paper Stock
Dealers/Sonoco will have the "first right of refusal" for
other materials that may be baled. Leasing the equipment will
cost $1 per year with installation costs to be borne by Paper
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 25
REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 17, 1996PAGE 454
Stock Dealers. The contract with Paper Stock Dealers/Sonoco
requires insurance coverage on the baling equipment in the
amount of $200,000, at $200 per year, and the contract is
structured in five-year terms, renewable for four additional
terms for a total of 25 years. Paper Stock Dealers/Sonoco
will pay 60% of the market value for paper fiber during the
first five-year term, and 90% of the market value thereafter.
Director Church reported Operating and Maintenance (O&M) costs
are based on the typical supplies and operating costs of the baler
and two temporary employees recovering the baling cardboard,
newspaper, and aluminum collected from the drop-off sites. The
cost for labor and supplies has been projected at approximately
$30,000 per year. The O&M costs were allocated to each of the
three materials based on the expected time and labor involved to
handle and bale each product. As of Friday, it appears that inmate
labor can be used at a cost of $1 per day, which will reduce the
O&M costs. A member of Staff will be trained by the N. C.
Department of Corrections to properly supervise the inmates.
In summary, Staff is not proposing a dirty MRF concept in
regard to cardboard recovery. Staff is proposing to dispose of
materials presently in the WASTEC wastestream based on the highest
end uses and best economical values available. The cardboard is
readily identifiable and arrives at WASTEC in the dry fraction of
the wastestream. The Board was requested to: (1) accept the bid
proposal by Paper Stock Dealers and Sonoco Paper Products and
directly market cardboard, newsprint, aluminum, and glass; (2)
contract with Waste Management for receipt of plastics and steel
cans; and (3) continue the contract with Southern Metals Recycling
for marketing of metal and white goods.
Mr. Chris McKeithan, President of Waste Management, Inc.,
reported the comparisons on the proposals were received late
Thursday afternoon and upon receipt, were immediately forwarded to
the company headquarters for evaluation. The proposal was just
received back in the Wilmington office this morning; therefore, he
has not had time to review comments from his company. He advised
that a proposal was submitted by Waste Management at the end of
March and in the evaluation presented today by Director Church, the
revenue was based on the figures presented by Waste Management in
the March proposal without a phone call or contact made to Waste
Management during the past three months. Mr. McKeithan expressed
concern for not being contacted and stated he hoped the figures
were accurate.
Mr. McKeithan compared the various proposals submitted for
recyclable cardboard, newsprint, plastics, and steel cans and
reported Waste Management presented the closest proposal to the
requirements of the direct marketing section. In the proposal
submitted by Waste Management, 83% of the market value for paper
fiber was paid to New Hanover County; whereas, in the proposal
submitted by Paper Stock Dealers and Sonoco Paper Products, only
60% of the market value would be paid to New Hanover County. Waste
Management is a worldwide marketer, and the 83% of the market value
would be 83% of the top dollar for recyclable paper stock. This
would create a difference in the cost of operation for the program
even with the use of inmate labor. Waste Management submitted a
proposal for cardboard at $25 per ton and in the proposal being
considered, cardboard is listed at a cost of $12 per ton, which is
not reasonable. In summary Waste Management has presented a
proposal with no risks, and the County will be paid 83% of the
market value for recyclable materials. He requested the Board to
provide more time for a review of the proposal so WASTEC will have
an opportunity to work with the County.
Chairman Greer commented on the 60% and 83% and asked Mr.
McKeithan about the flat cost per ton in the Waste Management
proposal?
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 25
REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 17, 1996PAGE 455
Mr. McKeithan responded there was a flat cost per ton with 80-
90 percent of the market value being paid to the County. The main
difference in the two proposals is the processing cost per ton,
which in his opinion, is too low in the two proposals being
considered. Also, under the Waste Management proposal, the County
will save $56,319 plus the $40,000 paid to the County, not $36,000
as presented in the information presented to the Board by the
Environmental Management Department.
Vice-Chairman Mathews commented on the letter received from
Mr. McKeithan and requested Director Church or a member of Staff to
explain why Waste Management was not contacted for two months.
Mr. Geoff Little reported two meetings were held with Peggy
Stadther and Matt Bryant of Waste Management before the proposals
were presented. On the day that proposals were opened, a meeting
was held with Ms. Stadther for 45 minutes with an evaluation of the
proposals received. Following this meeting, two conversations were
held regarding the baling proposals. Ms. Stadther came to the
office to pick up the proposals with another telephone
conversation. He reported that eight contacts had been made with
Waste Management and were documented in the office files.
Mr. McKeithan reported Peggy Stadther and Matt Bryant attended
the meeting prior to the bid opening to review the bid proposals.
The day the bids were opened, the information was presented on the
bids. He asked Mr. Little if Waste Management was ever contacted
or asked any questions about the bid?
Mr. Little reported the bid document was complete, and he
advised the Board that at no time did Ms. Stadther request an
appointment with Staff.
Chairman Greer advised that Mr. McKeithan had contacted him
about the bidding process; however, at that time he was not aware
that requests for proposals were being submitted. He stated, in
his opinion, Mr. McKeithan was expecting some type of response to
the recycling program that was to be administered by the County.
Mr. McKeithan responded that in a normal bidding process, a
meeting would be held to go over the bid document and discuss the
award of the contract. Waste Management contacted Staff during the
following week and requested an opportunity to explain the
proposal. As a result of contacting Chairman Greer, a letter was
received from Environmental Management indicating that Staff was
comparing the bids.
Commissioner Barone commented on the need to completely
understand the proposal being submitted and asked if a Work Session
could be scheduled for discussion of this matter.
Chairman Greer reported the Board should decide if the program
should be operated by the County or a private company.
Director Church reported the other companies submitting bids
did not have a problem with the procedure used in evaluating
proposals. Staff feels that all proposals were evaluated in a fair
manner.
Commissioner Barone commented on Waste Industries not
responding to the requests for proposals, which in her opinion was
strange, and asked if the reason for no response was to allow the
County to establish a MRF program.
Director Church responded that the department was not
proposing a MRF concept.
Chairman Greer stated at the last Work Session discussion was
held on trying to privatize the entire recycling service and Staff
was informed that the Board was not in favor of the MRF concept.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 25
REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 17, 1996PAGE 456
He expressed concern for Staff recommending a proposal that was
similar to a MRF system.
Commissioner Sisson stated, in his opinion, the proposal was
a public/private partnership and the most efficient way to deal
with the source of collection. As to the bidding process, he feels
this proposal was handled like all other proposals.
Motion: Commissioner Sisson MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman
Mathews to adopt Staff's recommended option for dealing with the
materials delineated in the proposal.
Ms. Marilyn Laufer, President of Southern Metals Recycling,
reported as a citizen and taxpayer of the County, she feels the
County will benefit from the proposal because money and landfill
space will be saved. She requested the Board to consider removing
the "first right of refusal" clause in the contract with Paper
Stock Dealers on the other recyclable materials in order to be fair
to the other companies.
Ms. Cameron Meek, a representative of Sonoco Paper Stock,
reported there would be no problem with removing the "first right
of refusal" clause on the other materials.
Commissioner Barone asked if there was a tonnage requirement
for the baler equipment to be left on the site?
Ms. Meek responded that an average of 60 tons of cardboard
must be maintained per month. She advised that the company
understands the figures can vary from month to month, but it must
average out to the monthly requirement over the term of the
contract.
Commissioner Barone asked if the City's annexation had been
considered when developing the program?
Mr. Little responded that annexation had been considered in
the location of drop-off sites throughout the County.
Commissioner Barone inquired as to whether any private
companies would handle the materials?
Mr. Little advised that Paper Stock Dealers and Sonoco would
receive the newspaper and cardboard with Southern Metals receiving
the aluminum and white goods. The glass would go directly to CRA
in Raleigh with plastics and steel cans going to Waste Management.
Amended Motion: Commissioner Sisson MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-
Chairman Mathews to adopt Staff's recommendation for dealing with
the materials delineated in the proposal and remove the "first
right of refusal" clause on other materials in the contract with
Paper Stock Dealers/Sonoco. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS
FOLLOWS:
Voting Aye: Commissioner Caster
Commissioner Sisson
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Voting Nay: Commissioner Barone
Chairman Greer
A copy of the contract is on file in the Legal Department.
CONSIDERATION OF FUNDING AGREEMENT (CONTRACT #96-0480) WITH SHELL
ISLAND RESORT HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION FOR STABILIZATION OF MASON'S
INLET AND APPROVAL OF ASSOCIATED BUDGET AMENDMENT
Assistant County Manager, Dave Weaver, reported that Staff has
been working with the Shell Island Resort Homeowners Association to
develop a funding agreement to accomplish the following items:
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 25
REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 17, 1996PAGE 457
(1)The Shell Island Resort Homeowners Association will pay for
all costs associated with installing the sandbag structure, or
guarantee repayment to the County.
(2)The County will be responsible for providing upfront funding
and management of the project contingent upon the County being
guaranteed reimbursement of all costs associated with the
sandbag structure.
(3)The Town of Wrightsville Beach has written a letter of support
for the use of Room Occupancy Tax funds for the project.
Assistant County Manager Weaver reported concern has been
expressed about reimbursement to the County for upfront funding,
and he requested the County Attorney to comment on this matter.
County Attorney Copley reported on June 8, 1996, the Shell
Island Homeowners Association voted for a special assessment of
$600,000 paid by the homeowners over the next several months. This
assessment equates to approximately $3,600 per unit. Attorney
Kenneth Shanklin, representing the Shell Island Homeowners
Association, has indicated that the Shell Island Homeowners
Association is willing to pledge the $600,000 with assignment to
New Hanover County. Attorney Shanklin has requested an amendment
to the dates listed in the agreement for the payment schedule to be
extended as follows:
$70,000 no later than July 10, 1996
$300,000 no later than August 10, 1996
$50,000 no later than September 10, 1996
$186,000 no later than July 1, 1997
County Attorney Copley reported as an additional guarantee for
reimbursement to the County, Attorney Shanklin indicated that the
common areas, such as the association office space, restaurant,
pool, parking facilities, etc. could be pledged to the County. Two
items to consider are the fact that Centura Bank holds the first
mortgage to the property, and the County must comply to the N. C.
Statutes that require 80% of the unit owners to adopt the
resolution to encumber the pledge of the common areas. She advised
she was comfortable with the $600,000 pledge through assessment of
each individual unit; however, if the common areas are pledged, the
County would be in a secondary position, and time would be needed
for completion of the legal documents.
Commissioner Sisson advised that he would be more comfortable
with a pledge of the common areas as well as the $600,000 pledge on
the individual units.
Assistant County Manager Weaver reported after meeting with
the homeowners, they were most appreciative of any assistance given
by the County. He reported the homeowners voted unanimously to
pledge the $600,000.
Wrightsville Beach, Mayor Herb McKim, reported the
Wrightsville Beach Board of Aldermen was in favor of the project
and stated, in his opinion, a majority of the residents of
Wrightsville Beach are overwhelmingly in favor of the project. He
advised that Wrightsville Beach contributes 32% of the proceeds
collected through the Room Occupancy Tax with the City of
Wilmington contributing 42%. The remaining contributions are
divided among the Town of Carolina Beach, Town of Kure Beach, and
the unincorporated County. During the last ten years, two to one
projects have been funded out of the Room Occupancy Tax account for
Carolina Beach and Kure Beach compared to the Town of Wrightsville
Beach; therefore, Wrightsville Beach is paying a larger share with
less money returned on beach renourishment projects. There are
approximately 40,000 people from New Hanover County that use the
beaches from the northern end of Wrightsville Beach to the southern
end of Kure Beach.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 25
REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 17, 1996PAGE 458
In closing, Mayor McKim reported New Hanover County does have
the responsibility of maintaining the beaches, and, in his opinion,
the purpose of the Room Occupancy Tax was to provide funding for
projects of this type.
Vice-Chairman Mathews inquired as to why the $180,000 was
being paid in 1997?
Assistant County Manager Weaver responded that $70,000 would
be used to pay for engineering services of the sandbag structure,
$350,000 for the structure itself, and $180,000 would be used to
begin engineering services for the dredging project that will not
begin until after 1997.
Vice-Chairman Mathews inquired as to how long the sandbag
structure would last?
Assistant County Manager Weaver stated there is no actual
guarantee of how long the sandbag structure will last; however,
after discussion with highly qualified engineering firms, it is
felt the structure should last three to five years with some
maintenance required during that period of time.
Assistant County Manager Weaver reported the sandbag structure
would be built on the northside of the beach access sidewalk, which
will place the structure on the Hutaff property. After contacting
the Hutaff family, it appears the family is willing to allow the
County to proceed with a "friendly condemnation of the property" to
provide the necessary easements. He requested the Board to
authorize Staff to proceed with the friendly condemnation of the
Hutaff property.
Motion: Commissioner Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Chairman Greer to
approve the funding agreement with the Shell Island Homeowners
Association, Inc.
County Attorney Copley requested Commissioner Caster to
include the amendment to the payment schedule in the motion.
Commissioner Sisson inquired as to whether the motion could
include authorizing the County Attorney to work with Attorney
Shanklin in obtaining the common areas.
Commissioner Caster inquired as to the reality of pledging the
common areas?
Attorney Ken Shanklin, representing the Shell Island
Homeowners Association, Inc., reported the income stream for the C-
1 Unit, owned by the Homeowners Association, can be immediately
pledged and the special assessment passed two weeks ago by the
Homeowners Association can be pledged; however, to pledge the
common areas will require three to four months because of the
documentation required to obtain approval from 80% of the unit
owners.
Vice-Chairman Mathews asked how the County would recoup its
money if Shell Island Homeowners Association should default on the
contract?
County Attorney Copley responded this would be resolved
through the courts. Once the assignments have been pledged, it
would be extremely difficult for the homeowners to default on the
contract.
Vice-Chairman Mathews inquired as to how funding will be
obtained for dredging the inlet?
Chairman Greer stated no federal funds will be available. The
homeowners will continue to pay $250,000 per year and the
difference will be removed from the Room Occupancy Tax.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 25
REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 17, 1996PAGE 459
Amended Motion: Commissioner Caster AMENDED THE MOTION, SECONDED
by Chairman Greer to approve the funding agreement with the
following revisions to the payment schedule: (1) payment of
$70,000 no later than July 10, 1996, payment of $300,000 no later
than August 10, 1996, payment of $50,000 no later than September
10, 1996, and payment of $186,000 no later than July 1, 1997; and
authorization for the County Attorney to proceed with pledging of
the common areas.
Vice-Chairman Mathews stated as a native of Wilmington, he had
always enjoyed Wrightsville Beach; however, he could not support
the motion because of the financial risks to the County.
Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS:
Voting Aye: Commissioner Barone
Commissioner Caster
Commissioner Sisson
Chairman Greer
Voting Nay: Vice-Chairman Mathews
Chairman Greer requested an explanation as to why the funds
would be transferred from the Room Occupancy Tax in the proposed
Budget Amendment?
Assistant County Manager, Dave Weaver, reported in order to
pay the engineering firm, funds would have to be transferred from
the Room Occupancy Tax fund into the capital project.
Chairman Greer asked if the project could be approved without
approval of the Budget Amendment since $70,000 would be received
this afternoon and another $350,000 within 45 days?
County Attorney Copley reported the first $70,000 will not be
due until July 10, 1996, as listed in the revised schedule.
Chairman Greer expressed concern for being issued one payment
schedule with a set of figures and then voting on a revised
schedule. He stated in order to move forward with the project, he
felt the County should receive some money from the homeowners
before July 10, 1996.
Attorney Shanklin reported the homeowners could pay the County
$7,500 by 5:00 P.M. this afternoon (June 17, 1996) with $27,500 by
July 1, 1996, $35,000 no later than July 10, 1996, with $300,000 by
August 10, 1996, with $50,000 by September 10, 1996, and $186,000
by July 1, 1997.
Amendment to Amended Motion: Commissioner Caster MOVED, SECONDED
by Chairman Greer to AMEND THE AMENDED MOTION TO APPROVE THE
FUNDING AGREEMENT for the Sandbag Structure Project with the
revised payment schedule: (1) collection of $7,500 on June 17,
1996, by 5:00 P.M., (2) collection of $27,500 by July 1, 1996, (3)
collection of $35,000 by July 10, 1996, (4) collection of $300,000
by August 10, 1996; (5) collection of $50,000 by September 10,
1996, and (6) collection of $180,000 by July 1, 1997, and proceed
with the statutory C-1 legal requirements for pledging the common
areas of the resort. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS:
Voting Aye: Commissioner Barone
Commissioner Caster
Commissioner Sisson
Chairman Greer
Voting Nay: Vice-Chairman Mathews
County Attorney Copley stated it was her understanding that
the Hutaff family would probably not charge for the condemnation;
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 25
REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 17, 1996PAGE 460
however, the Board may wish to provide direction if compensation
has to be paid for the necessary easements.
Chairman Greer recommended waiting to see if a charge is made.
He stated if this should occur, the Shell Island Homeowners
Association would be contacted at that time.
Motion: Commissioner Sisson MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Caster
to approve Budget Amendment #96-55 for the Shell Island Capital
Project with removal of the transfer from the Room Occupancy Tax
and adopt the Project Ordinance. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS
FOLLOWS:
Voting Aye: Commissioner Barone
Commissioner Caster
Commissioner Sisson
Chairman Greer
Voting Nay: Vice-Chairman Mathews
A copy of the Project Ordinance is hereby incorporated as a
part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXIII, Page
20.
Budget Amendment #96-55 - Shell Island Capital Project
Debit Credit
Shell Island Capital Project
Contribution from Shell Island Resort Assoc. $600,000
Shell Island Capital Project
Capital Project Expense $600,000
Purpose: To establish the project budget according to the Capital
Project Ordinance.
SELECTION OF ENGINEERING FIRM TO PERFORM ENGINEERING WORK
ASSOCIATED WITH THE SANDBAG STRUCTURE TO STABILIZE MASON'S INLET
Assistant County Manager, Dave Weaver, reported Staff has
moved forward with selecting an engineering firm to provide
engineering services for a sandbag structure to stabilize Mason's
Inlet. He reported Applied Technology and Management, Inc. (ATM)
has been recommended as the coastal engineering firm specializing
in the unique problems within the coastal zone. He reported there
will be an assembled team of engineers with specialized experience
in the design/engineering, permitting and construction of sand bag
container systems. Also, Dan Dawson of Dawson Engineering, a local
firm, will be included on the project team. Mr. Dawson will
provide general civil engineering, surveying, permitting support
(if needed) and construction inspection services on an as-needed
basis to the project.
County Engineer, George Shaw, presented the scope of services
and reported the Project Team was prepared to begin work
immediately to meet the County's fast-track schedule as listed
below:
June 11Submittal of Letter of Qualifications
June 17Presentation to the Board of County Commissioners
June 18Second Field Inspection of Project Site
June 20Initiation of Final Design and Project Specifications
Emergency Permit Application Submitted by County
June 21Preparation of Draft application for Variance
June 25Submit Application for Variance to CRC
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 25
REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 17, 1996PAGE 461
July 9Additional Materials (if needed) to CRC and Develop Final
Design and Draft Technical Specifications
July 25Variance Granted by CRC
July 29Submit Bid Documents and Plans to the County
August 1Advertisement for Bids
August 22 Bid Opening and Contract Award
Sept. 2Contract Signed and Contractor Mobilizes
Nov. 11Substantial Completion
Nov. 18Final Completion and As-Built Drawings
Motion: Commissioner Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Chairman Greer to
award the contract to Applied Technology and Management, Inc. and
authorize the Chairman to execute the necessary contract documents.
Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
TAX APPEAL ON 1995 VALUE OF 1961 CHRIS CRAFT BOAT OWNED BY AVERY
AND KAREN WILES
Tax Administrator, Roland Register, advised that the taxpayers
had elected not to appear before the Board; therefore, he would
recommend reducing the value to $14,400 for the years 1995 and
1996.
Motion: Commissioner Barone MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Caster
to reduce the value of the 1961 Chris Craft boat to $14,400 for the
years 1995 and 1996. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
TAX APPEAL OF 1995 DISCOVERY OF 1967 36-FOOT CUSTOM BUILT STEEL
WORK BOAT OWNED BY ALEX DONALD BORDEAUX
Tax Administrator, Roland Register, reported that Ms. Bordeaux
came in earlier and had agreed to the recommendation submitted by
the Tax Department.
Motion: Commissioner Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Sisson
to assess the value of the boat at $5,000 for the years of the
discovery from 1990 through 1996. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION FOR TECHNICAL CHANGES TO THE DOCUMENTS
RELATED TO SCHEDULED BOND SALE FOR NEW HANOVER REGIONAL MEDICAL
CENTER REVENUE BONDS
Chairman Greer introduced a resolution of the Board of
Commissioners of the County of New Hanover, North Carolina,
authorizing and approving certain amendments to the series
resolution adopted on May 20, 1996, and certain amendments to a
first amendment to the lease agreement approved on May 20, 1996,
and authorizing and approving the form and terms of the preliminary
official statement and the distribution and use thereof and the
form and terms of the official statement and the execution,
delivery, distribution and use thereof.
Motion: Vice-Chairman Mathews MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner
Caster to adopt the resolution as presented. 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 XXIII, Page 20.
DISCUSSION OF PERSONAL COMPUTERS FOR THE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Vice-Chairman Mathews recommended deferring action on the
purchase of personal computers for each County Commissioner until
the new Board is sworn into office in December.
Chairman Greer agreed and reported MIS Director, Bill Clontz,
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 25
REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 17, 1996PAGE 462
has indicated that personal computers will be less expensive at the
beginning of the new year.
Commissioner Barone advised that the reason for the request
was to save time for the County Manager, Staff and the County
Commissioners. She stated she would like to proceed with
installing a personal computer in her home to have access to E-Mail
and other County programs. Commissioner Barone advised that the
equipment would be borrowed until the end of her term in office,
and she asked if this arrangement would be satisfactory with the
Board.
No opposition was expressed by the other members of the Board.
COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS
Reappointment of Howard L. Armistead, Jr. to Serve on the ABC Board
and Reappointment of Howard L. Armistead, Jr. to Serve as Chairman
of the ABC Board for the Ensuing Year
Chairman Greer announced that one vacancy exists on the ABC
Board and reported that four applications have been received with
one applicant, Howard L. Armistead, Jr., being eligible for
reappointment.
Motion: Commissioner Barone MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Caster
to reappoint Howard L. Armistead, Jr. to serve on the ABC Board for
a three-year term to expire June 30, 1999. Upon vote, the MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Motion: Commissioner Barone MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Sisson
to reappoint Howard L. Armistead, Jr. to serve as Chairman of the
ABC Board for the ensuing year. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
Appointment of John S. Coble to Serve on the New Hanover County
Airport Authority
Chairman Greer reported that one vacancy exists on the Airport
Authority with twelve applications received. He stated the list of
applicants were well qualified and stated one of the applicants was
Vice-Chairman Mathews.
Chairman Greer opened the floor to receive nominations.
Commissioner Sisson nominated Vice-Chairman Mathews. The
nomination was seconded by Vice-Chairman Mathews.
Commissioner Barone nominated John S. Coble. Commissioner
Caster seconded the nomination.
There being no further nominations, Chairman Greer declared
the nomination closed.
Vote: Chairman Greer called for a vote on the appointment of Vice-
Chairman Mathews to serve on the Airport Authority. Upon vote, the
MOTION DID NOT CARRY AS FOLLOWS:
Voting Aye: Commissioner Sisson
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Voting Nay: Commissioner Barone
Commissioner Caster
Chairman Greer
Vote: Chairman Greer called for a vote on the appointment of John
S. Coble. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS and Mr. Coble
was appointed to serve a four-year term on the New Hanover County
Airport Authority with the term to expire July 1, 2000.
Voting Aye: Commissioner Barone
Commissioner Caster
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 25
REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 17, 1996PAGE 463
Chairman Greer
Voting Nay: Commissioner Sisson
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Chairman Greer commented on being very supportive of Vice-
Chairman Mathews and stated he hoped that his vote had not offended
him.
Commissioner Barone stated she had made a commitment and could
not break her promise.
Appointments to the Cape Fear Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau
Chairman Greer announced there were two vacancies on the Cape
Fear Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau in the following categories
with the following applications received:
General Public: Applications received from Sharon Kane, Robert
S. Rippy, and Paul E. Ritchie
Lodging Professional: Applications received from Jerry L.
Emerson and Sadie Ann Hood.
Chairman Greer opened the floor to receive nominations.
Vice-Chairman Mathews nominated Robert S. Rippy. The
nomination was seconded by Commissioner Caster.
Commissioner Barone nominated Paul E. Ritchie. The NOMINATION
DID NOT RECEIVE A SECOND.
There being no further nominations, Chairman Greer declared
the nominations closed.
Vote: Chairman Greer called for a vote on the appointment of
Robert S. Rippy to serve as an at-large member from the general
public to serve a three-year term on the Cape Fear Coast Convention
and Visitors Bureau, Inc. with the term to expire May 31, 1999.
Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS:
Voting Aye: Commissioner Caster
Commissioner Sisson
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Chairman Greer
Voting Nay: Commissioner Barone
Commissioner Barone nominated Sadie Ann Hood. The nomination
was seconded by Commissioner Caster.
There being no further nominations, Chairman Greer declared
the nominations closed.
Vote: Chairman Greer called for a vote on the appointment of Sadie
Ann Hood as the Lodging Professional representative on the Cape
Fear Coast Convention and Visitors Bureau, Inc. with the term to
expire May 31, 1999. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Appointment of Robert M. Martenis to Serve on the Cape Fear
Community College Board of Trustees
Chairman Greer announced that one vacancy exists on the Cape
Fear Community College Board of Trustees. He reported that
thirteen applications had been received and James Vann was eligible
for reappointment. He opened the floor to receive nominations:
Vice-Chairman Mathews nominated Robert W. Martenis. The
nomination was seconded by Commissioner Caster.
Commissioner Sisson nominated James Vann to serve another term
on the Cape Fear Community College Board of Trustees. The
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 25
REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 17, 1996PAGE 464
nomination was seconded by Commissioner Barone.
There being no further nominations, Chairman Greer declared
the nominations closed.
Vote: Chairman Greer called for a vote on the appointment of
Robert W. Martenis to serve on the Cape Fear Community College
Board of Trustees for a four-year term with the term to expire June
30, 2000. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS:
Voting Aye: Commissioner Caster
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Chairman Greer
Voting Nay: Commissioner Barone
Commissioner Sisson
Appointments to Museum Board of Trustees
Chairman Greer announced that five vacancies existed on the
Cape Fear Museum Board of Trustees and reported that twelve
applications had been received with four of the applicants being
eligible to be reappointed; however, he had been informed that
Luther Brown does not wish to be reappointed.
Motion: Commissioner Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Barone
to reappoint Byron Beal, John Sifers, and Kent Swaim to serve
three-year terms on the Cape Fear Museum Board of Trustees with the
terms to expire June 30, 1999. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
Chairman Greer opened the floor to receive nominations for the
remaining two vacancies:
Commissioner Sisson nominated Sandy Moskowitz. Commissioner
Barone seconded the nomination.
Vice-Chairman Mathews nominated Louis Burney, Jr. The
nomination was seconded by Commissioner Caster.
Commissioner Caster nominated Fumiko Green. Commissioner
Sisson seconded the nomination.
Chairman Greer nominated Allen P. Hunt, Jr. The nomination
DID NOT RECEIVE A SECOND.
There being no further nominations, Chairman Greer declared
the nominations closed.
Vote: Chairman Greer called a vote on the appointment of Sandy
Moskowitz to serve on the Cape Fear Museum Board of Trustees. Upon
vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS and Ms. Moskowitz was appointed
to serve a three-year term to expire June 30, 1999.
Voting Aye: Commissioner Barone
Commissioner Sisson
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Chairman Greer
Voting Nay: Commissioner Caster
Vote: Chairman Greer called for a vote on the appointment of Louis
Burney, Jr. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS and Mr.
Burney was appointed to serve a three-year term on the Cape Fear
Museum Board of Trustees with the term to expire June 30, 1999.
Voting Aye: Commissioner Caster
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Chairman Greer
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 25
REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 17, 1996PAGE 465
Voting Nay: Commissioner Barone
Commissioner Sisson
Vote: Chairman Greer called for a vote on the appointment of
Fumiko Green. Upon vote, the MOTION DID NOT CARRY AS FOLLOWS:
Voting Aye: Commissioner Caster
Commissioner Sisson
Voting Nay: Commissioner Barone
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Chairman Greer
Appointments to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
Chairman Greer announced that two vacancies exist on the Parks
and Recreation Advisory Board with six applications being received
out of which two applicants, J. Paul Abrams, and Camilla M.
Herlevich are eligible for reappointment. He noted that a letter
had been received from Ms. Herlevich stating she did not desire to
be reappointed because of her busy schedule with the Long-Range
Planning Committee. He opened the floor to receive nominations.
Commissioner Barone nominated J. Paul Abrams for
reappointment. The nomination was seconded by Commissioner Caster.
Vote: Chairman Greer called for a vote on the reappointment of J.
Paul Abrams for reappointment to the Parks and Recreation Advisory
Board. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY and Mr. Abrams
was reappointed to serve a three-year term with the term to expire
June 30, 1999.
Vice-Chairman Mathews nominated Fred Spain. The nomination
was seconded by Commissioner Sisson.
Vote: Chairman Greer called for a vote on the appointment of Fred
Spain to serve on the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board for a
term of three years with the term to expire June 30, 1996. Upon
vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Appointment of Thomas E. Arthur to Serve on the Board of Social
Services
Chairman Greer announced that one vacancy exists on the Board
of Social Services and reported that three applications had been
received. He opened the floor to receive nominations.
Commissioner Caster nominated Thomas E. Arthur. The
nomination was seconded by Commissioner Sisson.
Vice-Chairman Mathews nominated Scott Sammons. The nomination
was seconded by Commissioner Barone.
There being no further nominations, Chairman Greer declared
the nominations closed.
Vote: Chairman Greer called for a vote on the appointment of
Thomas E. Arthur to serve on the Board of Social Services. Upon
vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS to appoint Mr. Arthur to serve
a three-year term on the Board of Social Services with the term to
expire June 30, 1999.
Voting Aye: Commissioner Caster
Commissioner Sisson
Chairman Greer
Voting Nay: Commissioner Barone
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Re-advertisement of the Vacancy on the WASTEC Commission
Commissioner Caster recommended re-advertising this vacancy
since only one application had been received.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 25
REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 17, 1996PAGE 466
Motion: Commissioner Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Sisson
to request the Clerk to the Board to re-advertise the vacant
position on the WASTEC Commission. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
Appointments to the New Hanover Commission for Women
Clerk to the Board, Lucie F. Harrell, reported the Town of
Wrightsville Beach had decided not to appoint a representative to
serve on the Commission for Women and stated the Mayor has
requested the Board of County Commissioners to make this
appointment. According to the By-Laws the Commissioners have this
authority to appoint this representative.
Chairman Greer opened the floor to receive nominations:
Commissioner Barone nominated Louise B. Bland as the
Wrightsville Beach representative. The nomination was seconded by
Chairman Greer.
Commissioner Sisson nominated Teresa Goldston. The nomination
was seconded by Vice-Chairman Mathews.
Commissioner Caster nominated Sandra Morris. The nomination
was seconded by Chairman Greer.
There being no further nominations, Chairman Greer declared
the nominations closed.
Vote: Chairman Greer called for a vote on the appointment of
Louise B. Bland to serve on the Commission for Women. Upon vote,
the MOTION DID NOT CARRY AS FOLLOWS:
Voting Aye: Commissioner Barone
Chairman Greer
Voting Nay: Commissioner Caster
Commissioner Sisson
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Vote: Chairman Greer called for a vote on the appointment of
Teresa Goldston to serve on the Commission for Women. Upon vote,
the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS and Ms. Goldston was appointed to
serve an unexpired term that will expire May 31, 1998.
Voting Aye: Commissioner Caster
Commissioner Sisson
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Voting Nay: Commissioner Barone
Chairman Greer
Vote: Chairman Greer called for a vote on the appointment of
Sandra Morris to serve a three-year term on the Commission for
Women with the term to expire May 31, 1999. Upon vote, the MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
MEETING RECESSED FROM REGULAR SESSION FOR LUNCH AND A MEETING OF
THE BOARD OF EQUALIZATION OF REVIEW
Chairman Greer convened from Regular Session at 1:45 P.M.
until 4:14 P.M.
MEETING RECESSED FROM REGULAR SESSION FOR A REGULAR MEETING OF THE
NEW HANOVER COUNTY WATER & SEWER DISTRICT
Chairman Greer convened from Regular Session at 4:15 P.M.
until 4:38 P.M.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 25
REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 17, 1996PAGE 467
ADDITIONAL ITEMS - COUNTY MANAGER
Authorization for the County Manager to Enter into an Arrangement
for Workers Compensation Coverage
County Manager O'Neal requested authorization for the County
Manager to enter into an agreement for the County to become self-
insured for Workers Compensation Coverage as recommended by the
Wilmington-New Hanover County Insurance Advisory Committee. He
reported the County will save approximately $400,000.
Motion: Commissioner Barone MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Sisson
to authorize the County Manager to enter into an agreement as
recommended by the Wilmington-New Hanover County Insurance Advisory
Committee for the County to become self-insured for Workers
Compensation. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Chairman Greer expressed concern for being requested to vote
on an issue of this importance as an additional item, and he
requested the County Manager to avoid presenting additional items
of this type in the future.
Approval of Interlocal Agreement with the City of Wilmington for
the Provision of Rescue Services
Deputy County Manager, Andrew J. Atkinson, requested approval
of an interlocal agreement with the City of Wilmington for the
provision of rescue response services in place of the Emergency
Medical Services, which currently requires two employees. He
advised the County was currently spending over $40,000 per year for
the two positions and stated under the new agreement, the County
will be required to pay a maximum of $30,000 with a flat fee of
$20,000 per year.
Motion: Commissioner Barone MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Caster
to approve the interlocal agreement as presented. Upon vote, the
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
A copy of the agreement is on file in the Legal Department.
Amendment to By-Laws for the Board of Fire Commissioners
Commissioner Sisson presented amendments to the By-Laws for
the Board of Fire Commissioners and reported the amendments are
being recommended to clarify and administer the appointment
process. He stated the major policy change is that all applicants
must pay the fire district tax in order to be eligible for
appointment to the Board of Fire Commissioners.
Chairman Greer inquired as to whether the Clerk to the Board
was satisfied with the agreement.
Clerk to the Board, Lucie F. Harrell, advised the amendments
were acceptable; however, she would prefer approval contingent upon
review by the Legal Department.
Motion: Commissioner Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Sisson
to approve the amendments as presented contingent upon a review by
the Legal Department. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Adoption of Resolution to Support the Kure Beach Renourishment
Project
Chairman Greer advised that Representative Danny McComas had
contacted the office and requested a resolution of support for the
Kure Beach Renourishment project so funding can be appropriated in
the State budget for the project.
Motion: Commissioner Barone MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Sisson
to adopt a resolution of support for the Kure Beach Renourishment
Project. 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 XXIII, Page 20.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 25
REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 17, 1996PAGE 468
ADJOURNMENT
Chairman Greer adjourned the meeting at 5:53 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
Lucie F. Harrell
Clerk to the Board