2005-01-24 Regular Meeting
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 30
REGULAR MEETING, JANUARY 24, 2005 PAGE 223
ASSEMBLY
The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners met in Regular Session on Monday, January 24, 2005,
at 9:00 a.m. in the Assembly Room of the New Hanover County Courthouse, 24 North Third Street, Wilmington,
NC.
Members present were: Chairman Robert G. Greer; Vice-Chairman William A. Caster; Commissioner Ted
Davis, Jr.; Commissioner Nancy H. Pritchett; County Manager Allen O’Neal; County Attorney, Wanda M. Copley;
and Deputy Clerk to the Board, Teresa P. Elmore.
Commissioner William A. Kopp, Jr. was absent.
Chairman Greer called the meeting to order and welcomed everyone present.
INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mr. Carl Byrd, Sr., Director of Human Relations, gave the invocation.
Vice-Chairman Caster led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA
Chairman Greer asked if any member of the Board would like to discuss or remove an item from the
Consent Agenda.
Vice-Chairman Caster requested to remove Items 4, 6, and 10 for discussion.
In discussion of Item 4, Vice-Chairman Caster questioned whether it was appropriate to call one of the
awards a medal of honor. Fire Marshal Matt Davis and Fire Fighter Mike Efferson responded that the wording is
used by other police and fire departments across the nation to recognize those who have performed bravely and
given at the highest sacrifice above and beyond the call of duty. Chairman Greer asked whether money was
available in next year’s budget for the award, and the response was that funding was available.
In discussion of Item 6, Vice-Chairman Caster commented on receiving favorable reports on the new
sidewalks at Hugh MacRae Park. Chairman Greer questioned whether funds should be taken from this year’s budget
or be included in next year’s budget since the Veterans Park Capital Project had been closed. He believed that
normal review procedures should be followed for new projects after a capital project has been closed.
County Manager O’Neal responded that the contract was ready to be signed and he hoped the project would
be completed in this fiscal year. Funds remaining in the Veterans Park Capital Project were transferred to the
General Fund and he suggested that the $23,600 should come from this year’s budget.
In discussion of Item 10, Vice-Chairman Caster requested further explanation on the funding of the project.
Steve Smith, Director of the Public Safety Communications Center, responded that 911 Surcharge funds would be
used to pay for the software program and two lines to the Sheriff’s office. Chairman Greer asked whether the
equipment will be used at the new 911 Center. Director Smith responded that equipment will be installed
immediately to run with the emergency medical dispatch and will be used at the new facility.
Hearing no other comments, Chairman Greer called for a motion.
Motion:
Vice-Chairman Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Pritchett, to approve the items on the
Consent Agenda as presented. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED 4 to 0.
CONSENT AGENDA
Approval of Minutes
The Commissioners approved the minutes of the following meeting as presented by the Clerk to the Board:
Regular Meeting, January 10, 2005
Closed Session Meeting , January 10, 2005
Approval to Host a Luncheon for the Marshall Fellows
The Commissioners approved hosting a luncheon at the Historic Courthouse in honor of the Marshall
Fellows’ visit to New Hanover County on Monday, February 28, 2005,in an amount not to exceed $300. This year's
group includes seven fellows from Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, Bulgaria, Portugal and Belgium.
Authorization for New Hanover County on Behalf of New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC)
Emergency Medical Services (EMS) to Submit a Grant Application to Health Resources and Services
Administration, Department of Health and Human Services
The Commissioners authorized New Hanover County on behalf of New Hanover Regional Medical Center
(NHRMC) Emergency Medical Services (EMS) to submit a grant application in the amount of $27,210 to Health
Resources and Services Administration, Department of Health and Human Services, authorized the County Manager
to sign the grant document and the Finance Director to serve as fiscal officer, and authorized acceptance of the grant,
if awarded. It is a requirement of the State of North Carolina that New Hanover County receive the funds, not
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 30
REGULAR MEETING, JANUARY 24, 2005 PAGE 224
NHRMC. If the grant is awarded the funds will be used to purchase decontamination equipment. This will not
impact New Hanover County's budget since it is a "flow-through" grant.
Approval of Fire Fighter and Citizens Recognition Program
The Commissioners approved the Fire Fighter and Citizens Recognition Program. This program will
provide a structured process for recognizing members of the Fire Service or community who perform acts of distinct
heroism or provide an outstanding service to the safety of our community. This program will provide a structured
system for determining the Volunteer Fire Fighter of the year award and offer a wider range of recognition of
volunteers and career members alike. Similar programs have been used in other public service organizations as a
tool for volunteer retention, which is needed. There is no anticipated increase in cost this current FY but that will be
determined in the budget process for FY 2005-2006. It is estimated that annual expenditures for the awards will not
.
exceed $3,000This program has been reviewed and is recommended by the NHC Fire Commission.
Approval for the Juvenile Day Treatment Center to Submit a Grant Application to Cape Fear Memorial
Foundation
The Commissioners approved the Juvenile Day Treatment Center request to apply for a grant in the amount
of$85,200 from the Cape Fear Memorial Foundation. If approved, grant funds will be used to implement a
Communication Apprehension Program and America’s Rising Stars. The Communication Apprehension Program
assesses and enhances one’s oral communication skills, thereby increasing positive interpersonal interactions and the
America’s Rising Stars Program enhances basic life skills and prepares one for a successful future. The grant will
fund the cost of contracting with appropriate professional service providers to train center staff so that program
implementation will be ongoing.
Approval of Contract for Veterans Park Sidewalk Improvements to Johnson Grading Company and Budget
Amendment #05-0125 – Parks Department
The Commissioners awarded a contract for the addition of sidewalks to Veterans Park to Johnson Grading
Company in the amount of $23,638 and approved the associated budget amendment #05-0125. The original plans
for the development of Veterans Park called for several sidewalks connecting the park to adjacent neighborhoods.
The sidewalks were not built because of drainage and encroachment issues. The original capital project fund was
closed out before these issues could be resolved and the remaining funds in the amount of $67,955 were transferred
back to the general fund. The drainage and encroachment issues have been resolved and a bid in the amount of
$23,638 has been received by Johnson Grading Company to complete the work.
Budget Amendment #05-0125– Governing Body/Parks Department
AdjustmentDebitCredit
General Fund:
Appropriated Fund Balance:
Appropriated Fund Balance$23,638
Parks:
Other Improvements$23,638
Explanation: To appropriate fund balance for sidewalks at Veteran’s Park.
Acceptance of Tax Collection Reports Through December 31, 2004 – Tax Department
The Commissioners accepted the following Tax Collection Reports through December 31, 2004, as
submitted by the Collector of Revenue, Patricia J. Raynor:
New Hanover County Fire District
New Hanover County
Copies of the Tax Collection Reports are hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and are contained in
Exhibit Book XXIX, Page 14.1.
Release of Tax Value
The Commissioners granted Senior Citizen/Disability Exclusions to the following taxpayers.
Baker, Betty S.$53,301
Benson, Carson M. 49,582
Bordeaux, Winnie 21,520
Cliver, Carl Edward 38,579
Ellis, Kathleen 44,067
Ewing, Eleanor 53,218
Faulk, Jack D. 1,000
Faw, Mark R. 27,011
Fields, Lillian W. 26,583
Howard, Viola H. 48,764
Johnson, Salome W. 54,728
Jones, Joseph E. Viola P. 36,437
Murry, Delores V. 25,796
O'Leary, Daniel B. 56,834
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 30
REGULAR MEETING, JANUARY 24, 2005 PAGE 225
Ripley, Carol Ann 35,808
Roberts, Magdalene Goff 3,290
Twigg, Marion 12,729
Wall, Esther 27,533
Watkins, Irene S. 43,865
The Commissioners released the following taxpayers from payment of late listing penalties as the taxpayers
certify that they listed during the regular listing period:
Charlton, James A.$20.25
Econocom USA, Inc. 2.49
Fleet Capital Leasing - Global 83.91
The Commissioners approved the following delinquent applications for exemption from property tax for the
following organizations:
Mission BD/NC State Assn FWBR06120-007-043-000
NC Coastal Land TrustR04417-005-012-000
R04413-003-032-000
Seagate Pentecostal MissionR06207-009-004-000
Wilmington Central Church of ChristR05407-004-001-000
Acknowledgment of Budget Amendment from New Hanover County Schools
The Commissioners acknowledged the budget amendment approved by the New Hanover County Board of
Education on January 3, 2005. The amendment establishes the budget for the school bus lease financed by the state
and transfers funds from the completed Laney Roof Replacement Project to the College Park Roof Replacement.
Approval of Budget Amendment - #05-0133 for Purchase of Fire Priority Dispatch System and Two
Additional Phone Lines with Associated Hardware to the Plant 911 Phone System – Public Safety
Communications Center
The Commissioners approved the purchase of Fire Priority Dispatch System and two additional phone lines
with the associated hardware to the Plant 911 Phone System and the associated budget amendment #05-0133.
Budget Amendment #05-0133 – Emergency Telephone System Fund/Public Safety Communication Center
AdjustmentDebitCredit
Emergency Telephone System Fund:
911 Surcharge$76,995
Transfer to General Fund$76,995
Public Safety Communication Center$76,995
Transfer In/Emer. Telephone System
Departmental Supplies$43,510
Contracted Services$26,150
M&R – Equipment$ 7,335
Explanation: To budget funds from the Wire Line Surcharge for eligible charges.
Approval of Budget Amendments #05-0130, #2005,29, #2005-30 – Sheriff’s Office
The Commissioners approved the following budget amendments:
Budget Amendment #2005-30 – Sheriff
AdjustmentDebitCredit
Federal Forfeited Property:
Federal Forfeited Property$42,613
Capital Project Expense$42,613
Explanation: To increase budget for additional funds received on December 16 and 17, 2004 and January
6, 2005. Federal Forfeited Property revenues are budgeted as received and must be used for law enforcement as the
Sheriff deems necessary.
Budget Amendment #2005-29 – Sheriff
AdjustmentDebitCredit
Controlled Substance Tax:
Controlled Substance Tax$1,661
Capital Project Expense$1,661
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 30
REGULAR MEETING, JANUARY 24, 2005 PAGE 226
Explanation: To increase budget for additional revenue received on December 22, 2004. Controlled
Substance Tax funds are budgeted as received and must be used for law enforcement as the Sheriff deems necessary.
Budget Amendment #05-0130 – Sheriff’s Office
AdjustmentDebitCredit
Sheriff/Administration:
Other$510
Sheriff/Uniform Patrol:
Make A Child Smile Program$510
Explanation: To budget the remainder of contributions received for the 2004 Make A Child Smile
Program.
Approval of Budget Amendment #05-0126 – Social Services
The Commissioners approved the following budget amendment:
Budget Amendment #05-0126 – Social Services
AdjustmentDebitCredit
DSS/Administration:
DSS/Administration Grants$52,007
Energy Assistance:
Assistance Payments$52,007
Explanation: To budget additional federal funds for the Crisis Intervention Program.
Approval of Budget Amendment #05-0127– Juvenile Services
The Commissioners approved the following budget amendment:
Budget Amendment #05-0127 – Juvenile Services
AdjustmentDebitCredit
JDTC/Medicaid:
Title XIX Fees$34,500
Juvenile Day Treatment Center:
Salaries and Wages$13,745
Professional Services$ 1,000
Contracted Services$ 500
M&R Building and Grounds$ 8,000
Vehicle Rental$ 7,200
Departmental Supplies$ 2,600
Food Purchases$ 1,000
Training and Travel$ 7,145
Building Modification$25,000
Explanation: To adjust budget amounts of Juvenile Crime Prevention Council funding for FY 04-05.
REGULAR ITEMS OF BUSINESS
PRESENTATION OF NEW HANOVER COUNTY SERVICE AWARDS
County Manager O’Neal requested the following employees to step forward to receive service awards:
Five-Year: Ricky Gibbs, Health Department
Donald W. Hoffsher, Parks Department
Glendora D. Slappy, Health Department
Ten-Year:Michael R. Malone, Information Technology
Arthur G. Malpass, Inspections Department
Cynthia L. Stevens, Human Relations Commission
Fifteen-Year: Beverly F. Thomas, Finance Department
Miranda J. Pearce, Social Services
William F. Oakes, Tax Department
Twenty-Year: E. Fran Caldwell, Sheriff's Office
Ronnie L. Anderson, Environmental Management
Gerald McDuffie, Environmental Management
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 30
REGULAR MEETING, JANUARY 24, 2005 PAGE 227
On behalf of the Board, Chairman Greer presented a service award to each employee, expressed
appreciation, and thanked them for their dedicated years of service.
RECOGNITION OF NEW EMPLOYEES
County Manager O’Neal requested the following new employees to stand and be introduced:
Regina Bradley, Health Department
Marie Hemmen, Health Department
Garret Winkler, Inspections Department
Barbara Branch, Museum
Jared Taylor, Property Management
Kari Cline, Department of Social Services
On behalf of the Board, Chairman Greer welcomed the new employees to County Government and wished
them success with their new positions.
CONSIDERATION OF PROCLAMATION DECLARING FEBRUARY 2005, AS HUMAN RELATIONS
MONTH IN NEW HANOVER COUNTY
Carl Byrd, Director of the Human Relations Commission, requested the Board to declare February 2005, as
Human Relations Month in New Hanover County. He recognized members Lethia Hankins, Chairman of the
Commission, and Marla D. Rice-Evans, staff member Cynthia Stevens, and former board members Commissioner
Pritchett and Board of Education member Janice Cavenaugh in attendance.
Chairman Greer read the proclamation into the record and requested a motion for adoption.
Motion
: Commissioner Pritchett MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Caster, to adopt the proclamation
declaring February 2005, as Human Relations Month in New Hanover County. Upon vote, the MOTION
CARRIED 4 to 0.
A copy of the proclamation is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book
XXIX, Page 14.2.
Mrs. Hankins accepted the proclamation and urged all citizens to practice good human relations every day.
She announced the scheduled events for Human Relations Month and invited the Board and the public to attend.
PRESENTATION OF CERTIFICATE OF ACHIEVEMENT FOR EXCELLENCE IN FINANCIAL
REPORTING TO THE FINANCE DEPARTMENT
County Manager O’Neal announced that the New Hanover County Finance Department has received a
Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting. This certificate is presented by the Government
Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada to government units and public employee retirement
systems whose comprehensive annual financial reports achieve the highest standards in government accounting and
financial reporting. This is the 23rd consecutive year the New Hanover County Finance Department has received
this award.
On behalf of the Board, Chairman Greer presented the certificate to Bruce Shell, Finance Director, and
congratulated him and his staff for a job well done.
RECOGNITION OF OUTSTANDING SERVICE AWARD PRESENTED TO JAY GRAHAM,
INSPECTIONS DEPARTMENT
County Manager O’Neal announced that Jay Graham, Director of the Inspections Department, was honored
recently by the North Carolina Chapter of the American Institute of Architects for his outstanding service in
developing legislation for the construction industries.
On behalf of the Board, Chairman Greer congratulated Jay Graham for this award and commended the
excellent service he provides to New Hanover County.
RECOGNITION OF AWARD PRESENTED TO COOPERATIVE EXTENSION SERVICE
County Manager O’Neal announced that the New Hanover County Cooperative Extension Service recently
received a Performance Award from the professional organization Epsilon Sigma Phi. The Award is given in
recognition of outstanding team performance for programming and special events.
On behalf of the Board, Chairman Greer commended Director Melissa Hight and staff of the Cooperative
Extension Service for the award recognition and congratulated them on a job well done.
CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION REGARDING A POSSIBLE PUBLIC DEFENDER’S OFFICE IN
NEW HANOVER AND PENDER COUNTIES
Chairman Greer reported that the Board directed staff to contact the Office of Indigent Defense Services
(IDS) to express the Board’s concerns and request clarification of costs involved in setting up an office in New
Hanover County. Malcolm Hunter, the Executive Director of the IDS, has responded to the County Manager on the
projected cost.
Commissioner Davis informed the Board that the attorneys of the local Criminal Bar Association, not the
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 30
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entire Bar Association, have recommended support for the public defenders office (PDO), as he had reported at the
last meeting. The criminal attorneys support a PDO because it would provide a better quality of legal representation
for indigent clients and streamline the court process.
County Manager O’Neal reported that Judge Fullwood and Judge Carroll have informed him that they are
in support of a PDO saying it would be more efficient and a better system to operate with the courts.
The Commissioners discussed the high cost of operating the office and believed that County taxpayers
should not have to pay for it. State law allows the collection of fees to pay for court expenses, but the fees do not
cover all costs. It was suggested that the County should request an increase in court fees to cover some of the cost or
to ask the State for funds to open the local office.
The Commissioners discussed their objection to yet another non-funded mandate and felt the State should
provide the funding if the State IDS Office wants to open the office. Although the State may be saving money by
opening the office, the County will incur the costs.
Consensus
: After further discussion, the Board directed the County Manager to write letters to the State OIDS and
the local legislative delegation stating the Board’s opposition to opening a PDO in New Hanover County at the
expense of County taxpayers, and if the legislators approve the public defender positions, State funds should be
provided to the County for its operation.
CONSIDERATION OF REQUEST BY THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION FOR
A $210 MILLION SCHOOL BOND REFERENDUM IN MAY, 2005
Don Hayes, Chairman of the Board of Education, spoke on behalf of the School Board’s request for a $210
million school bond referendum in May, 2005. He recognized other board members present: Vice-Chairman
Jeannette Nichols, Janice Cavenaugh, Steve Bilzi and George Cox. He briefly updated the Board on the school
needs based on projected enrollment, changes in educational programs, and the State’s requirement for reductions in
class size.
Eddie Anderson, Director of Facility Planning and Construction, spoke on the accomplishments of the
$208,532,948 capital improvement projects that were funded in part by the previous school bond referendums. A
recently revised Facility Needs Assessment shows the School District is needing $400 million for construction of
facilities. The most critical needs were identified for the proposed $210 million bond referendum to be implemented
over the next five years.
The scope of the bond referendum includes:
•New Construction Projects: Ogden Elementary School building replacement, a new elementary school, a
new middle school, land acquisition, and site infrastructure
•Major Building Reconstruction and Renovation Projects: Carolina Beach Elementary School (constructed
in 1938), Forest Hills Elementary School (constructed in 1926), Gregory Elementary School (constructed in
1937), Lakeside High School (constructed in 1942), Snipes Elementary School (constructed in 1942),
Winter Park Elementary School (constructed in 1912), and Wrightsboro Elementary (constructed in 1926)
•Additions and Renovations: Hoggard High School, New Hanover High School, Laney High School,
Spencer Complex and Sunset Park Elementary School
Mr. Anderson said that it will be important to coordinate the bond referendum with the completion of
Murrayville and Anderson Elementary Schools. These schools will be ready for students in August 2005 and can be
used as temporary sites for students at Ogden and Carolina Beach Schools during construction. The plan is to
minimize redistricting and relocation of students and to save money by maximizing the available space.
Dr. D. John Morris, Superintendent of New Hanover County Schools, spoke on the Commissioners’ recent
tour of school facilities which showed the overcrowding problem and the need for more space. He explained that
some of the school programs make tremendous demands on space in the schools. The program for exceptional
children now has 550 students and the number of autistic children has increased from 14 to 140 students in four
years. The Schools are handling more students who have emotional problems and those who speak English as a
second language. Other demands for space include offices for school nurses, enforcement officers, social workers,
and resource officers. It is projected that enrollment will increase by 714 students next year.
Vice-Chairman Caster expressed disappointment that the School Board did not discuss the $210 million
bond issue with the Commissioners before making the announcement. He suggested that the Boards have a joint
meeting to discuss the significant cost of construction since the Commissioners will need to respond to the public’s
concerns. A delay in making a decision would also give Commissioner Kopp an opportunity to hear the
presentation.
Commissioner Davis expressed support for the Schools’ request for a bond referendum and he requested
information on the ramifications to the County’s budget for maintenance and operations of the additional facilities.
It will be important that the public and the County know all the costs and have correct information.
Commissioner Pritchett expressed her concern for the cost of the school bonds that would be placed on
property owners, in particular senior citizens on fixed incomes, and the need for other renovations not covered by the
presentation for Roland Grise and Wrightsville Beach Schools. She urged the School Board to make a more
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 30
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reasonable presentation for adequate schools instead of luxurious schools and for auditoriums instead of performing
arts centers. She said she was not prepared to go forward at this time and requested to table the issue.
Finance Director Bruce Shell presented charts showing the County’s debt service on the existing debt plus a
$210 million bond to determine the impact on taxpayers. The accumulative increase in the tax rate would be 8 1/4
cents at its highest point in FY 2011.
Chairman Greer expressed concern that if the School Board asks for too much money and the bond issue
fails, it will be difficult for the Commissioners to vote against the will of the people for future needs of schools.
Dr. Morris responded that the School Board and staff will work to inform the public at the PTAs and other
civic groups of the community. The School District wants to provide more than the basic education for students who
deserve advanced courses, orchestra and bands for middle school, more foreign language instruction, pre-k centers,
and all the needed special education classes. He expressed appreciation for the Commissioners’ support and their
being good stewards of tax dollars, but the students deserve the very best that the School District can get.
In discussion of the date of the referendum, County Manager O’Neal said that a special election could be
held in May, but the City will have a general election in October and a possible runoff in November. The cost for an
election is about $100,000.
Dr. Morris explained that it will be imperative to hold the bond referendum in May so that plans could be
made to open Murrayville School in the fall for students attending Ogden School.
Consensus:
The Commissioners agreed to hold a special meeting with the School Board and staff on Saturday,
January 29, 2005 at 8:00 a.m. in the executive conference room of the Wilmington International Airport. A
breakfast will be served.
BREAK
: Chairman Greer called for a break at 11:10 a.m. until 11:30 a.m.
CONSIDERATION OF PAYMENT FOR ADDITIONAL LEGAL FEES FOR BEACH TOWNS
Finance Director Bruce Shell reported that $9,000 was previously approved by the Board to cover legal fees
for the beach renourishment lawsuit initiated by the Towns of Carolina Beach, Wrightsville Beach and Kure Beach.
The legal expense was more than anticipated and he requested an additional payment of $8,386.46 from the Room
Occupancy Tax Fund (ROT).
Richard G. Catlin, Chairman of the Port, Waterway, and Beach Commission, explained that the beach
towns had filed an intent to sue the Corps of Engineers, who had announced a policy change to stop all federal
participation in periodic beach renourishment programs. The County was well represented by Holland and Knight
who had prepared a case against the Corps. However, Congress stopped the policy change and the programs are still
in effect.
Motion:
Vice-Chairman Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Pritchett, to approve the payment of
additional legal fees in the amount of $8,386.46 from the ROT Funds. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED 4 to 0.
Vice-Chairman Caster spoke on the Coast Guard’s announcement of removing buoys from Carolina Beach
Inlet and other inlets due to the Corps of Engineers’ decision to not dredge some of the inlets anymore. He
expressed concern for the safety of boaters navigating through the inlet and the economic impact to boaters in the
area and said Congressman McIntyre is working on getting funds for the projects.
Mr. Catlin said that the NC Shore & Beach Preservation Association will lobby for funding of dredging
projects at the Resource Congress in Washington on March 3 and Governor Easley will be requested to support the
effort. Mr. Catlin said that he will report back to the Board on the funding for the beach renourishment projects and
he would like to present an update to the Board on other issues concerning the Port, Waterway and Beach
Commission in February.
COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS
Appointments to the Adult Care Home Community Advisory Committee
Chairman Greer announced that five vacancies needed to be filled on the Adult Care Home Community
Advisory Committee. He reported that three applications were received and requested nominations from the Board.
Motion
: Vice-Chairman Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Pritchett, to appoint Donna M. Cote,
Bradford C. Martin, and Clara Mays to serve one year terms on the Adult Care Home Community Advisory
Committee with the terms to expire January 31, 2006. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED 4 to 0.
Appointment to the Bicycle Advisory Committee
Chairman Greer announced that one un-expired term vacancy needed to be filled on the Bicycle Advisory
Committee. He reported that three applications were received and asked for nominations from the Board.
Vice-Chairman Caster noted that the County has four representatives serving on the BAC, one of whom is a
representative from the Planning Department and another from the Parks Department. He requested to postpone the
appointment until it could be determine if another at-large representative could serve instead of a staff member. He
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 30
REGULAR MEETING, JANUARY 24, 2005 PAGE 230
knew two of the applicants and believed both would make good members on the committee.
Consensus
: The Board agreed to postpone the appointment until the matter could be determined.
Appointment to the Cape Fear Museum Advisory Board
Chairman Greer announced that one un-expired term vacancy needed to be filled on the Cape Fear Museum
Advisory Board. He reported that six applications were received and asked for nominations from the Board.
Commissioner Pritchett nominated Dr. John Haley. Commissioner Davis seconded the nomination.
Chairman Greer nominated Donald Patience. Vice-Chairman Caster seconded the nomination.
Commissioner Pritchett suggested that since Ms. Clinton, a minority on the board, had to resign due to a
health concern, Dr. Haley, another minority, would provide that balance. She noted that other vacancies will be
coming up in June.
Chairman Greer and Vice-Chairman Caster withdrew their nomination of Mr. Patience.
Vote:
The Board voted 4 to 0 to appoint Dr. John Haley to serve an un-expired term on the Cape Fear Museum
Advisory Board with the term to expire June 30, 2006.
Appointments to the Criminal Justice Partnership Advisory Board
Chairman Greer announced that vacancies needed to be filled on the Criminal Justice Partnership Advisory
Board. Members are needed from the following categories: criminal defense attorney, public defender, community
service coordinator, employee training professional, community-based corrections program manager, victim services
representative, business community, individual recovering from chemical dependency, and a previous consumer of
substance abuse treatment services. He reported that four applications were received and asked for nominations
from the Board.
Motion
: Vice-Chairman Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Pritchett, to appoint Ray Blake, David
Miller, Brucie L. Pope, and Gregory Stone to three-year terms on the Criminal Justice Partnership Advisory Board
with the terms to expire September 30, 2008. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED 4 to 0.
Appointments to the Juvenile Crime Prevention Council
Chairman Greer announced that three vacancies needed to be filled on the Juvenile Crime Prevention
Council. Members are needed from the following categories: juvenile defense attorney and at-large. He reported
that six applications were received with three of the applicants being appointed to the Criminal Justice Partnership
Advisory Board.
Motion
: Vice-Chairman Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Pritchett, to appoint Consweulo Davis,
Walter Engle, and Michelle Lynch to three-year terms on the Juvenile Crime Prevention Council with the terms to
expire September 30, 2008. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED 4 to 0.
Appointments to the Nursing Home Community Advisory Committee
Chairman Greer announced that two vacancies needed to be filled on the Nursing Home Community
Advisory Committee. He reported that three applications were received with one applicant, Dorothy L. Grime,
desiring to be reappointed.
Motion
: Vice-Chairman Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Pritchett, to reappoint Dorothy L. Grime
to a three year term expiring January 31, 2008, and to appoint Judith P. Tagert to serve a one-year term expiring on
January 31, 2006 on the Nursing Home Community Advisory Committee. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED 4 to
0.
MEETING RECESSED TO HOLD A REGULAR MEETING OF THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY
WATER AND SEWER DISTRICT
Chairman Greer convened from Regular Session at 11:50 a.m. to hold a meeting of the New Hanover
County Water and Sewer District.
Chairman Greer reconvened to Regular Session at 12:20 p.m.
ADDITIONAL ITEMS
Consideration of Changes to the Airlie Gardens Admission Fee
County Manager O’Neal reported that the Airlie Gardens Foundation Board voted to recommend changes
to the Airlie Gardens admission fee structure at its January 19, 2005 meeting. Staff agreed with the proposed fee
changes that will simplify the admissions process.
Motion
: Vice-Chairman Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Pritchett, to approve the changes in the
fee schedule with changes to be $5.00 for all adults and $3.00 for all children under 12. Upon vote, the MOTION
CARRIED 4 to 0.
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County Manager O’Neal expressed appreciation to Albert Corbett, Chairman of the Foundation, and Dr.
Jim Lanier, Acting Director, for their efforts in leading Airlie Gardens.
Consideration of Resolution in Support of Joint Summits to Discuss Interstate Connections
County Manager O’Neal reported that at a Chamber of Commerce committee meeting with the New
Hanover County delegation on January 4, 2005, Lanny Wilson, member of the NC Board of Transportation, brought
to the committee's attention a letter he received inviting him to join the South Carolina Department of Transportation
on February 10-11, 2005 in Myrtle Beach for a "Carolinas I-73 Summit" hosted by several regional SC Chambers of
Commerce. The purpose of the summit will be to discuss the construction of the I-73 route. The Chamber's
delegates expressed concern over having a meeting with South Carolina that only had I-73 on the agenda. Since I-
73, I-74 and I-20 are all important projects to the Wilmington urban area and have statewide significance, they felt
the importance of discussing all the projects needed to be expressed to the SC Department of Transportation.
Congressman McIntyre spoke at the Chamber in March 2004, to build regional support for the completion of I-74
and I-20 and has recently formed an I-74/I-20 Advisory Committee to develop further plans to ensure success of
those projects.
The Wilmington City Council adopted a resolution at its January 18, 2005 meeting in support of the other
two interstates being included in the summit. The Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce is currently
considering a similar resolution.
Chairman Greer suggested removing wording in the resolution that states the Board “does not endorse nor
support participation...” and changing it to read that the Board encourages the inclusion of the entire package of
improvements of I-74, I-20 and I-73.
Motion
: Chairman Greer MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Caster, to adopt the revised resolution in
support of holding joint summits to discuss I-74, I-20, and I-73 road construction projects. Upon vote, the MOTION
CARRIED 4 to 0.
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book
XXIX, Page 14.3.
Non-Agenda Items
Chairman Greer announced that time had been reserved to allow the public to present an item that was not
listed on the regular agenda. He requested all persons speaking to limit their remarks to three minutes.
William (Bill) Hart, member of the New Hanover County Soil and Water Conservation District Board of
Supervisors, spoke on attending the 61 st Annual Meeting of the NC Association of Soil and Conservation Districts.
He expressed appreciation to Vice-Chairman Caster for serving on a panel discussion at the conference. He said the
County was recognized as the Outstanding Watershed District in the State for its involvement with the Hewletts
Creek project. Additionally, the District sponsored five resolutions. One dealt with requesting the State to treat
water runoff from highways and roadways going into creeks. Another resolution requested funding for implementing
best management practices on urban lots. He reported that $17,000 of Farm Bill money was allocated to property
owners in connection with the Hewlett’s Creek Watershed project to establish habitat improvements. It is hoped that
the State will implement a similar program since North Carolina is becoming more of a suburban-urban state. He
complimented Shelly Miller, director of the local office, for her leadership in efforts toward community
conservation.
Items Presented by Vice-Chairman Caster
Vice-Chairman Caster reported he attended the following meetings and events:
CAMA Panel Committee meeting, a luncheon meeting with Senator Boseman, Wilmington Downtown’s
Elected Officials Breakfast Meeting, Convention Center Task Force Leadership Team meeting, lunch on
USCG Diligence
the, Chamber’s Leadership Training, kick off meeting for Martin Luther King celebration,
meeting with Airport officials, meetings on the Darden Road sewer project, YWCA Annual meeting,
Convention Center Task Force meeting, Domestic Violence Shelter Annual Awards Banquet, grand
opening at the Mayfaire movie theater, and the Port, Waterway and Beach Commission meeting.
Vice-Chairman Caster said that he received an e-mail from a citizen who was complaining about traffic
noise in a subdivision and he asked the County Attorney to respond.
County Attorney Copley responded that she has forwarded to Sheriff Causey a copy of the noise ordinance
which allows deputies to issue citations to offenders.
Items Presented by Commissioner Pritchett
Commissioner Pritchett requested a recycling container be provided for the Commissioners to use during
Board meetings.
Commissioner Pritchett reported that she attended the funeral of Sheriff Deputy George E. Clemens who
died on January 17, 2005, the opening of the Cape Fear Museum exhibit Let’s Play, and a meeting of the Cape Fear
Breeze Committee. And she reminded everyone that she is still selling bracelets to raise money for the American
Cancer Society, Relay for Life.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 30
REGULAR MEETING, JANUARY 24, 2005 PAGE 232
Appointment to the Juvenile Crime Prevention Council
Assistant County Manager Melvin reported that John Ranalli is no longer eligible to serve on the JCPC in
the at-large category. One of the at-large members appointed earlier in the meeting could fill his unexpired term.
She requested the Board to assign Ms. Davis or Mr. Engle to the unexpired term.
The Board selected Ms. Consweulo Davis to serve the unexpired term expiring on September 30, 2005.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, Chairman Greer adjourn the meeting at 12:45 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Teresa P. Elmore
Deputy Clerk to the Board