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2004-05-17 Regular Meeting NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 30 REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 2004 PAGE 36 ASSEMBLY The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners met in Regular Session on Monday, May 17, 2004, 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 Julia Boseman; Commissioner William A. Caster; Commissioner Ted Davis, Jr.; Commissioner Nancy H. Pritchett; County Manager, Allen O’Neal; County Attorney, Wanda M. Copley; and Clerk to the Board, Sheila L. Schult. Chairman Greer called the meeting to order and welcomed everyone present. INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Assistant County Manager Patricia Melvin gave the invocation. Craig Conley, Harrison Grim, and Patrick Ledbetter, members of St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church Boy Scout Troop 274 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. Commissioner Caster requested removal of Consent Agenda Items 3, 9, 14, and 17 for further discussion. Chairman Greer requested removal of Consent Agenda Item 8 for further discussion. Chairman Greer called for a motion to approve the remaining items on the Consent Agenda. Motion: Vice-Chairman Boseman MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Caster to remove Consent Agenda Items 3, 8, 9, 14, and 17 for further discussion and approve the remaining items as presented. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Discussion of Consent Agenda Item 3 - Department of Aging as Lead Agency for Aging Services Commissioner Caster requested clarification from Aging Services Director Annette Crumptonon the connection of funding between the Senior Center Outreach Program and the Council of Government Office. Aging Services Director Crumpton reported that the funds received for the Senior Center Outreach program is allocated by the Council of Government Office which oversees the disbursement. Discussion of Consent Agenda Item 8 -Water Treatment for the WASTEC Facility Chairman Greer requested clarification from County Attorney Copley if the contract included a termination clause. County Attorney Copley stated that a termination clause could be added to the contract stating that if WASTEC ceased operations the contract would be terminated. Chairman Greer asked for direction from the Board; the Board responded in favor of adding the termination clause to the contract. Discussion of Consent Agenda Item 9 - Community Waste Reduction and Recycling Grant Commissioner Caster requested clarification over the terms of the grant. County Manager O’Neal and Assistant County Manager Weaver requested this item be pulled to allow Staff more time to gather information. Discussion of Consent Agenda Item 14 - Animal Control Services Trust Fund Commissioner Caster requested clarification on the legalities of transferring monies from the Animal Control Services Trust Fund into operating expenses. County Attorney Copley stated there was no problem transferring monies from the trust fund as long as the funds being transferred were used in compliance with the terms of the trust fund. Discussion of Consent Agenda Item 17 - Castle Hayne Community Revitalization Project Commissioner Caster requested an update concerning drainage issues at one of the entrances to Castle Hayne. Assistant County Manager Weaver replied that the drainage problem that Commissioner Caster was referring to had been taken care of. After hearing no further comments, Chairman Greer called for direction from the Board. Motion : Vice-Chairman Boseman MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Caster to remove Consent Agenda Item 9 and approve Consent Agenda Items 3, 14, and 17 as presented and approve Consent Agenda Item 8 with the addition of a termination clause to the contract. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. CONSENT AGENDA NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 30 REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 2004 PAGE 37 Approval of Minutes The Commissioners approved minutes of the following meetings as presented by the Clerk to the Board: Special Meeting April 29, 2004 Regular Meeting May 3, 2004 Board of Equalization and Review May 3, 2004 Adoption of Resolution to Add Roads in the Lambs Bluff Subdivision to the State Road System The Commissioners adopted a resolution to add Lipscomb Drive, Colquitt Drive, Lambs Court, Colquitt Court and Pennypacker Court in the Lambs Bluff Subdivision (Div. File No. 1030-N) to the State Road System. A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXVIII, Page 28.1. Approval to Designate the Department of Aging as Lead Agency for Aging Services in New Hanover County FY 2004-2005 - Department of Aging The Commissioners approved a request from the Department of Aging to designate the New Hanover County Department of Aging as Lead Agency for Aging Services for FY 2004-2005 and accept: 1) Home and Community Care Block Grant funds in the amount of $763,081 and the Advisory Board's recommended distribution of funds; 2) Senior Center Outreach funds in the amount of $1,471; 3) Title III-D Health Promotion/Medication Management funds in the amount of $10,269; and 4) Family Care Giver Support Funds in the amount of $28,500. The County Manager was authorized to sign the necessary documents. Authorization for the Emergency Management Department to Submit a Grant Application to the State Homeland Security Program and Authorization to Apply to the Governor’s Crime Commission for Funding The Commissioners authorized the Emergency Management Department to submit a grant application to the State Homeland Security Program in the amount of $327,731 and apply to the Governor’s Crime Commission for funding in the amount of $3,780,000. If the grant is awarded, these funds will be used to upgrade the County’s 800 MHz radio system. If funds are received from the Governor’s Crime Commission, they will be used to upgrade the County’s 800MHz radio system to a 25-channel simulcast system. Authorization for the Emergency Management Department to Submit a Grant Application to the North Carolina Division of Emergency Management Eastern Branch Office The Commissioners authorized the Emergency Management Department to submit a grant application to the North Carolina Division of Emergency Management Eastern Branch Office in the amount of $11,313. If the grant is awarded, these funds will be used to upgrade equipment in the Emergency Operation Center. Approval to Award Contract to the Hatfield and Dawson Company and Associated Budget Amendment # 04-0208 - Emergency Management Department The Commissioners awarded a contract in the amount of $45,700 to the Hatfield and Dawson Company and approved the associated budget amendment #04-0208 for the Emergency Management Department. These funds will be used for engineering services to assist with the United States Coast Guard permit process to enable the County to use the River Road LORAN tower for the County's 800MHz Radio System. Staff also requested a 10% contingency of $4,500 to cover any unforeseen cost. Budget Amendment #: 04-0208 - Emergency Management Department AdjustmentDebitCredit Non-Departmental/Contingencies: Contingencies $50,200 Communications Tower: Contracted Services$50,200 Explanation: To budget for engineering services to assist the County with the U.S. Coast Guard permit process to enable the County to use the River Road LORAN tower for the County's 800MHz Radio System. A copy of the contract is on file in the Legal Department. Authorization for the Department of Environmental Management to Submit a Grant Application to the Clean Water Management Trust Fund The Commissioners authorized a request from the Department of Environmental Management to submit a grant application to the Clean Water Management Trust Fund in the amount of $155,000. If the grant is awarded, the funds willto be used for the installation of a pivot point irrigation system for the land application of treated landfill leachate. Matching funds in the amount of $44,700 are available in the Environmental Management Fund Balance. Adoption of Resolution Awarding BID#04-0268 and Approving Contract #04-0268 for Water Treatment for the WASTEC Facility to the Nalco Company - Department of Environmental Management The Commissioners adopted a resolution awarding the lowest responsible bid to Nalco Company in the amount of $345,433.05 for water treatment for the WASTEC Facility with a termination clause added to the contract. Nalco Company, the current provider, was the only bidder that met all the requirements of the RFP. A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXVIII, Page 28.2. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 30 REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 2004 PAGE 38 A copy of the contract is on file in the Legal Department. Adoption of Resolution Authorizing the Disposal of Surplus Equipment and Vehicles Through County Auction - Finance Department The Commissioners adopted a resolution authorizing the disposal of surplus equipment and vehicles through County auction to be held June 19, 2004. A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXVIII, Page 28.3 Adoption of Resolution Establishing Waiver of Tipping Fees Procedure The Commissioners adopted a resolution establishing the Waiver of Tipping Fees Procedure effective May 17, 2004. Each year the County’s Auditing Firm prepares a management letter containing recommendations to the County to consider for implementation; one of the recommendations received this year was to have a written procedure for the waiving of tipping fees. Staff has written a procedure to follow when a request is made for a waiver of the tipping fees which includes an application form with directions. A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXVIII, Page 28.4. Adoption of Resolution Approving Contract #04-0325 and Approval of Associated Budget Amendment #04-0206 for Installment Financing Agreement from Bank of America Leasing and Capital Group - Finance Department The Commissioners adopted a resolution approving contract #04-0325 with Bank of America Leasing and Capital Group for installment financing to reimburse the County for funds spent in FY04 budget for the purchase of a bulldozer for the Landfill. Funds to make the installment debt payments have been budgeted in 700-480-4191-5940, however, budget amendment #04-0206 has been prepared for accounting purposes to record and budget the proceeds from the financing. A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXVIII, Page 28.5. Acceptance of Additional Revenue Earned in Epidemiology Program for FY 03-04 and Associated Budget Amendment#04-0210 Health Department - The Commissioners accepted additional revenues earned in the Epidemiology Program (Communicable Disease Program) in the amount of $13,600 and approved associated budget amendment #04-0210. The funds will be used for department supplies to support current program needs. Budget Amendment # 04-0210 - Health Department Adjustment Debit Credit Epidemiology: Health Fees$13,600 Departmental Supplies$13,600 Explanation: To budget additional revenues earned in the Epidemiology Program for FY 03-04. Approval to Transfer Funds from the Animal Control Services Trust Fund into the Current FY 03-04 Animal Control Services Operating Budget and Related Budget Amendment #04-0209 - Health Department The Commissioners approved the following budget amendment: Budget Amendment #04-0209- Health Department Adjustment Debit Credit Animal Control Services: Other$13,500 Other Improvements$13,500 Explanation: Transfer of funds from the Animal Control Services Trust Fund are needed to cover actual costs of the architect and completion of construction of the Animal Control Services Spay/Neuter facility. The original amount transferred from Animal Control Services Trust fund was based on projected need; actual costs have surpassed the projection. Authorization for the Health Department to Submit a Grant Application to the Cape Fear Memorial Foundation and to the Kate B. Reynolds Charitable Trust Fund for a School Based Transportable Dental Unit The Commissioners authorized the Health Department to submit a grant application to the Cape Fear Memorial Foundation in the amount of $185,000 and to Kate B. Reynolds Charitable Trust Fund in the amount of $375,000. If the grant is awarded, these funds will be used for a “dental office on wheels” in a collaborative effort to serve school children ages three through eighteen in New Hanover and Brunswick Counties on North Carolina Health Choice, Medicaid or uninsured. The dental unit will be self sustaining through fee for service; Medicaid will be billed for services rendered. Brunswick County has requested to participate in this project and has agreed to provide the truck for the trailer. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 30 REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 2004 PAGE 39 Approval of Interlocal Agreement Between the City of Wilmington and New Hanover County for Funding Participation for Construction of an Emergency Operations Services Facility Located at the County Annex at Marketplace Mall and Contract #04-0220 The Commissioners approved the Interlocal Agreement between the City of Wilmington and the County and Contract #04-0220 for funding participation for construction of an Emergency Operations Services Facility at the County Annex. The City of Wilmington will provide funding in the amount of $257,428.12 for construction cost of a conference room to be designated for City use, at the Emergency Operations Services facilities location. This arrangement seeks to minimize total construction costs while promoting integration of facility services. The interlocal agreement is on file in the County Attorney’s Office. Approval of Castle Hayne Community Revitalization Project, Phase I, NCDOT Enhancement Program Application - Planning Department The Commissioners authorized the Planning Department to submit an application to the NCDOT Enhancement Program in the amount of $5,600. If the application is approved, these funds will be used for Phase I of the Castle Hayne Community Revitalization Project. Phase 1of the revitalization project is the first of three phases that will focus on creating a cohesive community and revitalization of the Castle Hayne commercial corridor along US 117. Phase I will create visually distinctive gateways into Castle Hayne so that visitors will know that they are entering a unique and distinctive community in the County. The County is required to match federal funding by providing 20% of the entire cost of Phase I. The total cost is estimated at $7,000; the County portion is approximately $1,400. Authorization for the Sheriff’s Office to Submit a Grant Application to the Governor’s Crime Commission for Project Homeland Security 2004 The Commissioners authorized the Sheriff’s Office to submit a grant application to the Governor’s Crime Commission for Project Homeland Security 2004 in the amount of $232,231. If the grant is awarded, these funds will be used for emergency equipment to perform specialized functions relating to Water Rescue/Recovery assignments as well as response to Weapons of Mass Destruction Incidents and Explosive Ordinance Disposal Incidents; the travel funds will be used for training and certification of deputies who respond to the above listed incidents. Authorization for the Sheriff’s Office to Submit a Grant Application to the Governor’s Crime Commission Project Safe Neighborhoods The Commissioners authorized the Sheriff’s Office to submit a grant application to the Governor’s Crime Commission for Project Safe Neighborhoods in the amount of $247,424.32. If the grant is awarded, these funds will be used to continue programs relating to the reduction of gun violence and allow implementation of new law enforcement strategies to reduce violence, as well as allowing the purchase of additional equipment to aid this endeavor. Release of Values - Tax Department The Commissioners granted a correction as presented at the November 17, 2003, meeting to a Senior Citizen/Disability Exclusion for the following taxpayer: Freeman, Corine$51,087 The Commissioners released the following taxpayer from payment of late listing penalties since this was their first offense: Southern Water Conditioning$412.62 Acceptance of Tax Collection Reports Through April 30, 2004 - Tax Department The Commissioners accepted the following Tax Collection Reports through April 30, 2004, as submitted by the Collector of the Revenue, Patricia J. Raynor: New Hanover County Fire District New Hanover County Copies of the Tax Collection Reports are hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and are contained in Exhibit Book XXVIII, Page 28.6. Approval of Budget Amendment #2002-49 - Orthophoto Project The Commissioners approved the following budget amendment: Budget Amendment #2004-49- Orthophoto Project AdjustmentDebitCredit Interest on Investments$ 4,562 Capital Project Expense$36,612 Transfer to Other Funds$41,174 (Wireless 911 Fund) Explanation: For accounting purposes only, to close fund. 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: NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 30 REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 2004 PAGE 40 Five YearsRegina K. Grigg - Library Maisha A. James - Sheriff’s Office Ten YearsPamela S. Nelson - Social Services Cindy W. Reed - Social Services Nikki J. Todd - Health Department Fifteen YearsCeleste E. Chadwick - Social Services Mark J. Francolini - Human Resources Anna V. Franzitta - Tax Department Sharon H. Terrell - Tax Department Twenty YearsMichael E. Gray, Sr. - Sheriff’s Office Twenty-five YearsJeffery H. Tripp - Sheriff’s Office 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: Gail Oliver - Museum Wayne Pierce - Emergency Management Coleen Cornell - 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 MAY 22-28, 2004, AS SAFE BOATING WEEK IN NEW HANOVER COUNTY Chairman Greer reported that Bill Payne, Commander of the Cape Fear Power Squadron, requested that the Commissioners proclaim May 22-28, 2004, as Safe Boating Week in New Hanover County. Commissioner Caster read the proclamation into the record. Chairman Greer requested a motion for adoption. Motion: Commissioner Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Boseman to adopt the proclamation declaring May 22-28, 2004, as Safe Boating Week in New Hanover County. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Chairman Greer, on behalf of the Board, presented the proclamation to Mr. Payne. A copy of the proclamation is hereby incorporated as part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXVIII, Page 28.7. CONSIDERATION OF PROCLAMATION DECLARING MAY 22, 2004, AS NATIONAL MARITIME DAY IN NEW HANOVER COUNTY Chairman Greer reported that Richard Eisenman, Co-Chairman of Maritime Day Festival 2004, requested that the Commissioners proclaim May 22, 2004, as National Maritime Day in New Hanover County. Vice-Chairman Boseman read the proclamation into the record. Chairman Greer requested a motion for adoption. Motion: Vice-Chairman Boseman MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Caster to adopt the proclamation declaring May 22, 2004, as National Maritime Day in New Hanover County. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Chairman Greer, on behalf of the Board, presented the proclamation to Mr. Eisenman. A copy of the proclamation is hereby incorporated as part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXVIII, Page 28.8. PRESENTATION OF THE DISTINGUISHED BUDGET PRESENTATION AWARD TO THE BUDGET DEPARTMENT FOR FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING JULY 1, 2003 Chairman Greer reported that the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada notified New Hanover County that they had qualified to receive the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for the thirteenth consecutive year. The award is for New Hanover County’s budget submitted for fiscal year beginning July 1, 2003. This award is the highest form of recognition in governmental budgeting. The budget is reviewed by a panel of independent budget experts who use extensive criteria to evaluate the effectiveness of the budget as a policy document, a financial plan, an operations guide, and a communication device. Award-winning documents must be rated “proficient” in all four categories. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 30 REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 2004 PAGE 41 Chairman Greer, on behalf of the Board congratulated Budget Director Cam Griffin; Senior Budget Analyst Norma Troutman; Budget Analyst Donna Seal, and Administrative Support Specialist Karen Wagner. PRESENTATION OF THE COUNTY MANAGER’S FISCAL YEAR 2004-2005 RECOMMENDED BUDGET Chairman Greer asked County Manager O’Neal to present the Fiscal Year 2004-2005Recommended Budget. County Manager O’Neal reported that in accordance with the Commissioners directive to prepare a budget with no tax increase and after completing the budget review process, the $216.3 million FY 04-05 Recommended Budget was proposed with a tax rate of 68 cents, representing no increase from the tax rate for FY 03-04. This was a challenging budget to prepare. Budgets continue to be held constant, which becomes more difficult with each successive year, as the population of the County increases, County facilities and services expand and inflation increases costs to the County. He continued with highlights from the recommended budget: Significant Increases in Anticipated County Expenditures : •The General Fund Transfer to the Schools is recommended to increase $1 million. •The Sheriff’s Office budget is recommended to increase $1.2 million, primarily due to the opening of the new Detention Facility. •Funds in the amount of $2.1 million are included for salary adjustments for County employees. •The Department of Social Services budget increase is estimated to be $.9 million primarily due to increases in Medicaid. General Fund: •Public Schools: A transfer of $68.7 million from the General Fund is recommended for the Schools. Of this amount, $5.7 million is funded by the portion of the sales tax designated for the Schools. •Cape Fear Community College: Funding of $4.7 million is recommended for CFCC. This is an increase of $600,000. •Personnel Issues: Five new positions are recommended with the budget. •Two additional Grounds Maintenance Workers for the Parks Department due to the expansion that has taken place in the number of acres maintained by the department. •One Landscape Technician position at Airlie Gardens to assist with the continued development of the gardens. •One additional Custodian recommended for Property Management to help maintain the expanded County facilities. •One Administrative Support Specialist position to assist with the efficient operation of the Emergency Management Department. •Employee Issues: •Funding is included for a 2 percent market adjustment and 1 percent merit adjustment for deserving employees. •Funding is included for a 1 percent contribution of a 401(k) or 457 plan for those employees who do not currently receive a state-mandated contribution. •Fire Services District Fund: •The tax rate of 6 cents is recommended for the Fire Service District, no increase from the tax rate for FY 03-04. •Water and Sewer District Fund: •The Water and Sewer District currently provides service to approximately 30,000 water and sewer customers. The District’s current operation and future expansion is funded by user fees, a $1.9 million transfer funded by sales tax revenue from the General Fund, and approximately $2 million in Water and Sewer Fund Balance. The fund balance will fund the anticipated debt service on the Northside Wastewater Treatment and Water Treatment Well Field. No ad valorem property taxes are used to fund the district. In conclusion, County Manager O’Neal thanked the County’s department heads and staff for their help in preparing the budget and noted that the department heads have done as requested by not increasing their departmental budgets over the previous year’s adopted amount and requested direction from the Board. Chairman Greer thanked County Manager O’Neal for the presentation and requested direction from the Board concerning the need for an additional budget work session prior to the public hearing on June 7, 2004. County Manager O’Neal suggested conducting the public hearings at the June 7, 2004, meeting, and at that time determine if an additional budget work session will be needed before adopting the FY 2004-2005 Budget on June 21, 2004. Chairman Greer requested comments from the Board. Commissioner Caster stated that after studying the County’s budgets since FY 94-95, the CPI Index, inflation rates, and the 3% expected increase in population growth he would be in support of a one cent property tax reduction. County Manager O’Neal stated that growth in the County’s budget since the FY 94-95 budget have been in the areas of expanded programming and services; the administrative core has remained stable or in some cases been reduced. If the Board is considering a tax reduction, he would need directive from the Board of which currently offered services to cut. Vice-Chairman Boseman advised she was in favor of an increase in the Homestead exemption in the amount NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 30 REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 2004 PAGE 42 of $14,000; an additional $500,000 added to the budget for the schools; an additional $16,000 be added to the Library’s budget to update the children’s book inventory; and, funds set aside to address drainage problems in the County. County Manager O’Neal responded that in order to properly address the drainage problems in the County that a Drainage District would need to be established. Vice-Chairman Boseman responded that funds could be set aside to address current drainage problems. Commissioner Caster responded that it would take millions of dollars in funding to make the difference needed and agreed a Drainage District would need to be established. Commissioner Pritchett suggested possible additional funding could be found in the Soil and Water Conservation District as an educational adjunct in an attempt to address the problem. County Manager O’Neal stated that he would have Staff look into that suggestion. Discussion continued on the reduction of the State’s funding to the County without a reduction in the requirements from the State. Commissioner Davis advised he was in favor of providing $1 million in additional funds to the schools and a one cent reduction in the property tax rate. Although in favor of the increase in the Homestead exemption, he felt this exemption needs to be addressed through the General Assembly. Chairman Greer reminded the Board that the recommended budget currently includes using $3 million from the fund balance; a tax reduction would mean a reduction in expenditures so as not to further deplete the fund balance. County Manager O’Neal reminded the Board that the Health Department has requested five additional positions for Environmental Health Specialists and the Museum has requested one additional position; these positions are not included in the recommended budget. Commissioner Davis advised he was in favor of the additional Environmental Health Specialist positions to help support the safety of the community and the tourism industry if the need could be verified. Commissioner Caster requested County Manager O’Neal to provide the Board with background on the request from the Health Department for the additional positions at the next meeting. Commissioner Pritchett advised that she had previously discussed her budget concerns with County Manager O’Neal. Hearing no further comments, Chairman Greer closed the budget discussion. BREAK: Chairman Greer called for a ten minute break. PRESENTATION OF PUBLIC BEACH AND COAST WATERFRONT ACCESS FUNDS AND CONSIDERATION OF AUTHORIZATION TO SUBMIT PRELIMINARY APPLICATIONS TO NC DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES Chairman Greer requested Senior Planner Chris O’Keefe to make the Staff presentation. Senior Planner O’Keefe reported that the NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources has announced the availability of funds to provide pedestrian access to public beaches and public trust waters in the twenty coastal counties. These funds may be used for land acquisition and site improvement projects that are consistent with the State guidelines for public access in the coastal area. The Planning Department and the Parks Department have several potential projects which would enhance access to the coast for New Hanover County residents. The State requires submittal of a preliminary application for these funds; a final application will be requested for those projects which meet the guidelines. The Board of Commissioners will be given the opportunity to review and approve the final application which will require a public hearing and dedication of matching funds for the selected projects. Motion: Commissioner Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Pritchett to authorize the Planning Department to submit a preliminary application for funds to the NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. PRESENTATION OF UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT WILMINGTON WATER QUALITY MONITORING PROGRAM ANNUAL REPORT Chairman Greer introduced Dr. Mike Mallin, with the Center for Marine Science, University of North Carolina at Wilmington, and asked him to give the presentation. Dr. Mallin stated that the report represents the combined results of Year 10 of the New Hanover County Tidal Creeks Project. The program samples twelve of the County's watersheds at fifty-two sampling stations. The presentation included a summary of water quality from August 2002-July 2003 for each watershed and the key results of special studies conducted over the past two years. The most widespread pollutant is fecal coliform bacteria with 72% of the stations sampled being impaired. The second most important water quality problem for the watersheds was low dissolved oxygen with 46% of the stations sampled being impaired. Report findings show that Futch Creek and Pages Creek are in the best condition; Hewletts Creek is in good condition; Barnards Creek, Howe Creek and Motts Creek NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 30 REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 2004 PAGE 43 need the most improvement. Oyster reef research is continuing with reports showing a reduction in fecal coliform and algae counts. Chairman Greer thanked Dr. Mallin for the information. PRESENTATION OF 2007 TAX REVALUATION Chairman Greer requested Tax Director Bob Glasgow give the Staff presentation. Tax Director Glasgow reported that North Carolina General Statutes requires all counties to conduct a revaluation of all real property every eight years. January 1, 2007, will be the eighth year since the last countywide revaluation in New Hanover County. The purpose of a revaluation is to identify market value for properties and to equalize the tax burden. A taxpayer who has seen their property value decrease should not have to pay more of the tax burden than the taxpayer whose property has increased in value since the last revaluation. N.C.G.S. 105-283 requires revaluation values to be 100% of market value the effective date of the revaluation. The Tax Department will have six appraisal teams canvassing all real property in the County during the next two years. These appraisers are state certified and can be identified in official County vehicles and wearing New Hanover County employee identification badges. Field reviews will be conducted from July 2004 thru August 2006. The Schedule of Values will be presented to the Board for approval in July 2006. Revaluation notices will be sent out in October 2006. Informal appeal hearings will be conducted from October 2006 until April 2007. The 2007 Board of Equalization and Review will convene the first Monday in May 2007 to accept and enter into the record those property owners who wish to be heard by the 2007 Board of Equalization and Review. Chairman Greer thanked Tax Director Glasgow for the information. COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS Appointment of Sara L. Burrows to Serve on the Bicycle Advisory Committee Chairman Greer announced that one vacancy needed to be filled on the Bicycle Advisory Committee. He reported that three applications were received with one applicant, Sara L. Burrows, being eligible for re-appointment. Chairman Greer opened the floor to receive nominations. Vice-Chairman Boseman nominated Sara L. Burrows. The nomination was seconded by Commissioner Caster. Hearing no further nominations, Chairman Greer declared the nominations closed. Chairman Greer called for a vote on the re-appointment of Sara L. Burrows. Vote: The Board voted unanimously to re-appoint Sara L. Burrows to serve a 3 year term on the Bicycle Advisory Committee with the term to expire May 31, 2007. Appointment of Bob Jamieson to Serve on the CAMA Land Use Plan Advisory Panel Chairman Greer announced that the Commissioners previously appointed Commissioner Caster as one of its representatives on the CAMA Land Use Plan Advisory Panel and they need to appoint one more representative. He reported that five applications were received, and requested nominations from the Board. Commissioner Pritchett nominated Sue Y. Hayes. The nomination was seconded by Commissioner Davis. Commissioner Caster nominated Bob Jamieson. The nomination was seconded by Chairman Greer. Hearing no further nominations, Chairman Greer declared the nominations closed. Chairman Greer called for a vote on the appointment of Sue Y. Hayes. Vote: The Board voted 2 to 3 for the appointment of Sue Y. Hayes. Commissioner Pritchett and Commissioner Davis voted in favor. Chairman Greer called for a vote on the appointment of Bob Jamieson. Vote: The Board voted 3 to 2 to appoint Bob Jamieson to serve on the CAMA Land Use Plan Advisory Panel. Reappointment of Iris Swain Saboor and Karen L. Simmons and Appointment of Donna Hurdle and Amanda Stanley to Serve on the Commission for Women Chairman Greer announced that four vacancies needed to be filled on the Commission for Women. He reported that six applications were received with two applicants, Iris Saboor and Karen Simmons being eligible for reappointment. Chairman Greer requested nominations from the Board. Commissioner Caster nominated Iris Swain Saboor. The nomination was seconded by Vice-Chairman NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 30 REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 2004 PAGE 44 Boseman. Commissioner Caster nominated Karen L. Simmons. The nomination was seconded by Vice-Chairman Boseman. Commissioner Pritchett nominated Donna Hurdle. The nomination was seconded by Commissioner Davis. Vice-Chairman Boseman nominated Amanda Stanley. The nomination was seconded by Commissioner Caster. Hearing no further nominations, Chairman Greer declared the nominations closed. Chairman Greer called for a vote on the reappointment of Iris Swain Saboor. Vote: The Board voted unanimously to reappoint Iris Swain Saboor to serve a 3 year term on the Commission for Women, with the term to expire May 31, 2007. Chairman Greer called for a vote on the reappointment of Karen L. Simmons. Vote: The Board voted unanimously to reappoint Karen L. Simmons to serve a 3 year term on the Commission for Women, with the term to expire May 31, 2007. Chairman Greer called for a vote on the appointment of Donna Hurdle. Vote: The Board voted unanimously to appoint Donna Hurdle to serve a 3 year term on the Commission for Women, with the term to expire May 31, 2007. Chairman Greer called for a vote on the appointment of Amanda Stanley. Vote: The Board voted unanimously to appoint Amanda Stanley to serve a 3 year term on the Commission for Women, with the term to expire May 31, 2007. MEETING RECESSED TO HOLD A REGULAR MEETING OF THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY WATER AND SEWER DISTRICT Chairman Greer convened from Regular Session at 11:00 a.m. to hold a meeting of the New Hanover County Water and Sewer District. Chairman Greer reconvened to Regular Session at 11:10 a.m. ADDITIONAL ITEMS CONSIDERATION OF PARK LAND SUITABILITY Chairman Greer requested Planning Director Dexter Hayes to make the Staff presentation. Planning Director Dexter Hayes reported on the consideration of park land suitability. In order to gain both Federal and State funding for the proposed extension of Military Cut-off through Ogden Park to the outer loop, it is necessary to evaluate the suitability of the central portion of Ogden Park for recreational use. After analysis of the extent and type of wetland in the area and the Park Master Plan, it has been determined by staff that the central area of the park is unsuitable for recreational use and requested the Board adopt a resolution clarifying this issue. Chairman Greer read the proclamation into the record. Motion: Commissioner Caster MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Boseman, to adopt the resolution designating the center section of Ogden Park as unsuitable for active or passive park use and available for other uses, including road construction. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XXVIII, Page 28.9. Additional Items from County Manager O’Neal •County Manager O’Neal informed the Board that Northampton County has adopted a resolution stating concern about proposed medicaid legislation and asked if the Board would like to adopt a similar resolution. The Board consensus was that they would discuss this issue with the legislative delegation at the meeting in Raleigh. •County Manager O’Neal informed the Board that the FY2004-2005 Recommended Budget would be posted on the County’s website for public review. Additional Item from Chairman Greer th •Chairman Greer commented on the success of the Hugh MacRae 50 Anniversary Celebration and complimented Park Director Neal Lewis and Staff. Additional Items from Commissioner Caster •Commissioner Caster informed the Board that he attended the North Carolina Association of Resource Conservation and Development Councils Annual Meeting in Ocracoke, North Carolina, and would continue to attend the meetings and update the Board. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 30 REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 2004 PAGE 45 •Commissioner Caster informed the Board that he and Commissioner Pritchett attended the New Hanover County Senior Service Corps’ 2004 Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon and were pleased to see the hundreds of volunteers that were honored. •Commissioner Caster informed the Board that he had attended the dedication ceremony for the Lower Cape Fear Water and Sewer Authority Kings Bluff Generator Project. The King Bluff Generator Project is designed to provide standby power at the Kings Bluff Pumping Station. The Authority’s customers depend on the Kings Bluff Pumping Station to deliver up to 45 million gallons of raw water per day. •Commissioner Caster commented that he had enjoyed participating as a judge for Senior Projects at Ashley High School. •Commissioner Caster reported to the Board that he attended the meeting of the North Carolina Shore and Beach Preservation Association in Raleigh. One of the issues discussed was the lack of federal government funding for beach re-nourishment. th •Commissioner Caster informed the Board that he attended the 15 Pastoral Anniversary Service and reception honoring New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office Chief Chaplain Bo Baker. th •Commissioner Caster also commented on the success of the Huge MacRae Park 50 Anniversary Celebration and thanked Park Director Neal Lewis and Staff. Additional Items from Vice-Chairman Boseman Vice-Chairman Boseman requested information on the process for informing the public concerning the upcoming tax evaluation. County Manager O’Neal responded that the Chamber of Commerce was preparing a presentation that would be shared with the Board. Vice-Chairman Boseman requested information on the policy for trash and debris burning. County Manager O’Neal responded that he would have that information placed on the June meeting agenda. Additional Items from Commissioner Pritchett •Commissioner Pritchett informed the Board that Community Development Planner Wanda Coston has received recognition from the NC Division of Coastal Assistance for her excellent work in the CDBG Scattered Site Housing Rehabilitation Program. •Commissioner Pritchett informed the Board that NHC-TV has been recognized for a segment on the New Hanover County Drug Court by the National Association of County Information Officers and congratulated Public Information Officer Mark Boyer on being elected as Vice-Chairman of the UNC Public Television Board of Trustees. •Commissioner Pritchett informed the Board that she attended graduation ceremonies at Cape Fear Community College and UNCW; Congressman Mike McIntyre received an honorary doctorate degree from UNCW. •Commissioner Pritchett commented that she had enjoyed participating as a judge for Senior Projects at Ashley High School. 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. No items were presented. ADJOURNMENT Chairman Greer adjourned the meeting at 11:25 a.m. Respectfully submitted, Sheila L. Schult Clerk to the Board