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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1992-09-21 Regular Meeting ~ MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, SEPTEMBER 21, 1992 PAGE 143 . ASSEMBLY The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners met in Regular Session on Monday, September 21, 1992, at 9:00 A.M. in the Assembly Room of the New Hanover County Courthouse, 24 North Third Street, Wilmington, North Carolina. Members present were: Commissioners Jonathan Barfield, Sr.; Fred Retchin; William H. Sutton; Vice-Chairman Robert G. Greer; Chairman E. L. Mathews, Jr.; County Manager, Allen O'Neal; County Attorney, Wanda M. Copley; and Clerk to the Board, Lucie F. Harrell. Chairman Mathews called the meeting to order and welcomed all persons present. INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG Reverend Lawrence F. Meyer, Pastor of the Lutheran Church of Reconciliation, gave the invocation. commissioner Sutton led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. NON-AGENDA ITEMS Chairman Mathews asked if anyone from the general public would like to present an item not listed on the Regular Agenda or comment on an item listed on the Consent Agenda. No items or comments were received. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA Chairman Mathews requested removal of Item #13 for discussion at the end of the meeting. . Approval of Minutes Commissioner Retchin requested approval of the minutes with the proposed correction to Page 21 including insertion of the clause "to distribute the cost"; a correction in the spelling of the name Wallace Henry to Wallace Hendry on Page 5; and correction of the word "difference" to "different" on Page 11. Motion: Commissioner Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by Chairman Mathews, to approve the minutes of the Regular Meeting of September 8, 1992, with the corrections as presented. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Motion: Chairman Mathews MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Greer to approve the Consent Agenda with removal of Item #13 to be discussed at the end of the meeting. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. CONSENT AGENDA . Approval of Budget Amendment #93-0041 - Ogden Volunteer Fire Department The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment: 93-0041 Special Fire District/Fire Departments Debit Credit Special Fire District/Fire Departments Appropriated Fund Balance $17,500 Ogden Volunteer Fire Department $17,500 Purpose: To budget appropriated fund balance in the amount of $17,500"which was mistakenly omitted from the Ogden Volunteer Fire Department's FY 1992-93 Budget due to confusion related to dry hydrants and underground fuel tank removal in last year's budget. This request was approved by the Board of Fire Commissioners on July 1, 1992. j (~ I MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, SEPTEMBER 21, 1,992 PAGE ~4,4, Approval of Budget Amendment #93-0036 - Cape Fear Museum The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment: 93-0036 Cape Fear Museum Debit Credit Museum N. C. Humanities Grant $18,929 Contracted Services $18,929 () Purpose: To rollover FY 1989-90; FY 1990-91; and FY 1991-92 Humanities grant funds to FY 1992-93 for completion of projects funded by the grant. Approval of Clerical Assistant position for the New Hanover County Health Department The Commissioners approved eliminating the Vector Control Technician position in order to transfer funds to create a Clerical Assistant position in the Health Department to serve as a switchboard Operator/Receptionist. The pay range is from $16,252 to $22,753. No additional funding is required. Approval of Two New Public Health Nurse II positions in Home Health - New Hanover county Health Department The Commissioners approved two new Public Health Nurse II positions in Home Health to assist with increased caseloads and home visits. Funds in the amount of $61,804 will be transferred from contracted services to salaries to cover the cost. No County funds are required. Approval of Installment Payment Master Agreement (Contract #93- 0123) with IBM corporation The Commissioners approved an Installment Payment Master Agreement for the IBM computer equipment purchased for the Department of Social Services. In the past, all equipment has been financed through First Union Bank for a period of three years; however, IBM will finance the equipment for five years. This contract is a Master Agreement and will apply to this purchase as well as future IBM purchases if the County desires to use the installment purchase method of financing. The interest rates for this particular project are 5.65% for the hardware and 5.85% for the software. The Chairman was authorized to execute the contract documents. () A copy of the contract is on file in the Legal Department. Approval of Interlocal Agreement (Contract #93-0122) with the Town of wrightsville Beach for Fire Code Enforcement The Commissioners approved an Interlocal Agreement with the Town of Wrightsville Beach to provide fire code enforcement retroactive to July 1, 1992. Under the terms of the contract, the County retains all permit fees and the Town of Wrightsville Beach reimburses the County for expenses not covered by fees up to a maximum of $5,500. The contract has a renewal clause which provides for continuing inspections unless either party cancels. The Chairman was authorized to execute the contract documents. A copy of the contract is on file in the Legal Department. o Release of Value - New Hanover county Tax Department The Commissioners approved the releases of value as recommended by the Tax Administrator. A list of the releases is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XX, Page 10. Acceptance of Tax Collection Reports Through August 31, 1992 The Commissioners accepted the following Tax Collection l t '...../ . . - .... ~ MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, SEPTEMBER 21, 1992 PAGE 145 Reports through August 31, 1992, as submitted by the Collector of Revenue: New Hanover County Tax Collections New Hanover County Fire District Tax Collections Copies of the reports are hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and are contained in Exhibit Book XX, Page 10. Ratification of Appointment of John Keith as the Extraterritorial Member of the Carolina Beach Planning and zoning Commission The Commissioners ratified the appointment of John Keith as the extraterritorial member of the Carolina Beach Planning and Zoning Commission as requested by the Carolina Beach Town Council. Adoption of Resolution Awarding Bid #93-0117 (Contract #93-0117) to Atlantic computer corporation for IBM Terminals and Control Unit for the Department of Social services The Commissioners adopted a resolution awarding the bid to Atlantic Computer Corporation, the lowest responsible bidder, in the amount of $58,350 for the purchase of IBM Terminals and a Control Unit for the Department of Social Services. The Chairman was authorized to execute the contract documents. The following bids were received: Atlantic Computer Corporation IBM Corporation $58,350.00 $58,411. 80 A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XX, Page 10. Acceptance of Arts Council Grassroots Grant for the Cape Fear Museum and Approval of Budget Amendment #93-0045 The Commissioners accepted the Arts Council Grassroots Grant in the amount of $1,000 to produce a series of programs complimenting the exhibit "Time. Talent and Tradition: The Cultural Heritaqe of the Lower Cape Fear". The grant will pay for artistic fees and the current match is included in the 1992-93 Museum operating budget. The County Manager was authorized to execute the grant documents. The following Budget Amendment was approved: 93-0045 Museum Debit Credit Museum Arts Council Grant $1,000 Contracted Services $1,000 Purpose: To budget an Arts Council of the Lower Cape Fear Grant in the amount of $1,000 to the Museum. The funds are to be used for artistic fees for a special presentation focusing on the performing arts of a racial or ethnic minority in the region. RECOGNITION OF NEW COUNTY EMPLOYEES County Manager Allen O'Neal introduced the following new County employees: Mary Ann Eisenstein Christopher Ward Kathy Wright Terell Parlatore Gene vinson Judith Smith Donna Poole Donald Howard Francine Moore Marie Warren Legal Department Emergency Medical Services Social Services Sheriff's Department Sheriff's Department Sheriff's Department Sheriff's Department Sheriff's Department Health Department Health Department ~ (// MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, SEPTEMBER 21, 1992 PAGE 146 Judith Suggs Blanche Chisum Ernie Williams Board of Elections Cooperative Extension Service Cooperative Extension Service Chairman Mathews, on behalf of the Board, welcomed the new employees and wished them well in their public service jobs. Emphasis was placed on the importance of treating the general public in a courteous and professional manner at all times. ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE GRANTING A FRANCHISE TO MEDICAL TRANSPORTATION SPECIALISTS, INC. TO PROVIDE SCHEDULED NON..,EMERGENCY AMBULANCE SERVICE (CATEGORY II) WITHIN NEW HANOVER COUNTY AND SCHEDULED NON-EMERGENCY (CATEGORY II) AND EMERGENCY (CATEGORY I) SERVICE ORIGINATING WITHIN NEW HANOVER COUNTY WITH AN OUT-OF-COUNTY DESTINATION Director of Emergency Management, Larry Ray, commented on the application for renewal of the Ambulance Franchise with Medical Transportation Specialist, Inc. (MTS) and stated since the franchise was issued in 1987, MTS has advanced their level of certification to EMT-intermediate. This certification has allowed the company to provide a broader base of service previously not available to non-emergency patients; therefore, staff recommends renewal of the franchise as requested feeling that the quality of service has been satisfactory and most beneficial to the community. Motion: After discussion of the valuable service rendered to the community, commissioner Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Greer to adopt the ordinance renewing the five-year franchise to Medical Transportation Specialist, Inc. The Chairman was authorized to execute the contract documents. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. A copy of the ordinance is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XX, Page 10. ACCEPTANCE OF "DRAFT POLICIES FOR GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT" AND A "DRAFT LAND CLASSIFICATION MAP" - PLANNING DEPARTMENT County Manager O'Neal requested acceptance of the draft Land Use Plan Update since this document must be submitted to the State by September 30, 1992, in order to comply to grant deadlines. Motion: After discussion of this being a very well prepared document, Commissioner Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Greer to accept the "Draft Policies for Growth and Development" and "Draft Land Classification Map" as part of the CAMA Land Use Plan and authorize the Chairman to sign the letter of transmittal to the N. C. Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources, Division of Coastal Management for review and comment. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. County Manager O'Neal complimented the Planning Department for publishing an informative Land Use Plan Update that can be easily read and comprehended by the general public. PRESENTATION ON DISPOSITION OF PROPERTY JOINTLY OWNED BY NEW HANOVER AND PENDER COUNTIES Sheriff McQueen presented background information on property confiscated by the federal government during a drug raid in Pender County and later transferred to New Hanover and Pender Counties. Several months ago, the Sheriff's Department was approached by former Parks Director, Mike Waters, representing the volunteer firemen, to see if New Hanover County would relinquish its share of the property for construction of a fire training facility to be used by both Pender and New Hanover Counties. After discussion with the U. S. Attorney, the Sheriff's Department was informed that the property could not be relinquished unless the new facility provided some form of training or participation by law enforcement. A few months later the Sheriff's Department was informed that the Commissioners wanted to sell the property, and the U. S. Attorney l n \ ' o n ......... _/ o . . . ~ MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, SEPTEMBER 21, 1992 PAGE 147 was contacted again with the Sheriff's Department being informed that the property could not be sold until October 23, 1992, in order to comply with federal regulations. After further discussion, the Sheriff's Department was then informed that the Commissioners did not desire to sell the property. Regardless of what the Commissioners wish to do with the property, the Sheriff's Department has no problem with relinquishing its share for construction of a fire training facility contingent upon a member of the Board of the new facility being a representative of law enforcement and some form of training being available for law enforcement personnel. Chairman Mathews inquired as to whether a driver's training program for deputies could be conducted at the proposed facility? Sheriff McQueen stated a skid pad is being constructed and the Sheriff's Department will be able to utilize a training program of this type. Mr. Dan Stall, representing the New Hanover County Firemen's Association, stated the New Hanover and Pender County Firemen's Associations are working together to raise funds for construction of the proposed training facility. The funds for development of the land will come from federal and state grants as well as from private donations; however, approval for use of the land must be obtained. Also, the Board of Directors of the facility will consist of a Chairman and 12 members, 6 members from New Hanover County and 6 members from Pender County. Each county will appoint 2 representatives from the following categories: law enforcement, volunteer firemen, and Emergency Medical Services; therefore, law enforcement will have representation on the Board of Directors. Motion: After further discussion, Commissioner Sutton MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Barfield to favorably endorse the proposal for construction of a training facility to be used by the volunteer fire departments and law enforcement. The County Attorney was requested to thoroughly investigate any possible liability to New Hanover County with preparation of a recommendation to allow for the proposed use if all legal requirements can be met. This item is to be presented to the Commissioners at a later date. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Chairman Mathews complimented Sheriff McQueen for the professionalism of the bailiffs carrying out the daily Flag Raising Ceremony, and also expressed appreciation for arranging to provide a Deputy to attend evening meetings. APPROVAL OF REVISION TO THE CONTRACT WITH TAX MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATES, INC. TO ALLOW FOR FEE-BASED AUDITS Tax Administrator Roland Register presented a revision to the contract with Tax Management Associates, Inc. (TMA) to contract for a minimum of 200 fee based audits by TMA over the next 12 months to be supplemented with audits by personnel in the Tax Department. The flat fee basis will apply to future audits, and prior audits will require payment as previously agreed. If the Tax Department . finds that contract audits are no longer cost-effective, the County can exercise the cancellation provisions in the proposed revision and alter the audit program at a suitable level. After study of the best method to use for auditing business accounts, staff feels the combined effort of TMA and Tax Department employees will be the most effective way to perform these audits. Vice-Chairman Greer disagreed with hiring an outside group to perform audits and stated if audits are to be performed they should be performed in-house. He inquired as to whether the County has generated any additional revenue after payment to TMA? Tax Administrator Register stated the County has paid TMA approximately $250,000 with the City of Wilmington, New Hanover j ( , l MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, SEPTEMBER 21, 1992 PAGE 148 County and the beach communities gaining revenues in the amount of $1,200,000. commissioner Retchin stated the flat fee plan as proposed is certainly reasonable and inquired as to the length of the present contract with TMA? Tax Administrator Register stated the contract will expire in less than two years; however, the County can contract on an annual basis. Discussion was held on the audit procedure and the possibility of performing this service in-house. Tax Administrator Register stated within approximately 18 months, the Tax Department will be in a better position to perform in-house audits with a reduced amount of assistance from an outside auditing firm since machinery and equipment have been listed during the audit reviews already performed by TMA. () Commissioner sutton commented on the importance of approaching businesses with an employee from the Tax Department and recommended using a County employee to make the initial contact introducing the members of the aUditing firm before beginning the aUditing process. County Manager O'Neal stated most corporate headquarters are located outside of New Hanover County; therefore, it would be difficult for the County to send an employee for the initial contact. Also, he expressed concern for the amount of time involved with scheduling audits. Motion: After further discuss ion, Commiss ioner Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner sutton to approve the proposed revision to the contract with Tax Management Associates, Inc. which reflects that audits are to be performed on a flat fee basis. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS: () Voting Aye: Commissioner Barfield Commissioner Retchin commissioner Sutton Chairman Mathews Voting Nay: Vice-Chairman Greer ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION ACCEPTING A GRANT AWARD FROM THE NORTH CAROLINA COASTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM FOR DEVELOPMENT OF A TIDAL CREEK AND ESTUARINE WATERSHED MANAGEMENT PROGRAM PLANNING DEPARTMENT Assistant Planning Director, Patrick Lowe, requested adoption of a resolution accepting a grant award in the amount of $9,717 through the North Carolina Coastal Management Program for development of a Tidal Creek and Estuarine Watershed Management Program to reduce pollution and improve water quality in New Hanover County's creeks and sounds. The program will be administered as follows (1) creation of mapping and database utilizing the County's GeoVision Geographic Information System; (2) coordination of water quality/pollution studies by various agencies and groups including UNC-W; (3) establishment of environmental/ecological baseline data; (4) creation of an information clearinghouse through New Hanover County; and (5) development of Watershed Management Plan and implementation measures. The Commissioners were requested to accept the grant and adopt the resolution authorizing this action. No additional funds are required. I~ Motion: commissioner Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by Chairman Mathews to accept the grant, authorize the Chairman to execute the contract documents and adopt a resolution authorizing establishment of a Tidal Creek and Estuarine Watershed Management Program in New Hanover County. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XX, Page 10. . . . ~ MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, SEPTEMBER 21, 1992 PAGE 149 A copy of the contract is on file in the Legal Department. ACCEPTANCE OF FAA GRANTS FOR NEW HANOVER INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT County Manager O'Neal reported that the Airport Authority has applied for two FAA grants to finance construction of the following facilities: (1) a new mid-field complex to house the Airport's aircraft rescue firefighting equipment and serve as a terminal ramp surveillance facility; and .(2) construct additional Airport security improvements. The project is consistent with the Airport's Master Plan and the Airport's Business Plan. It is necessary to improve the Airport's aircraft rescue firefighting efficiency and to remain in compliance with mandated FAA security requirements. Total cost of. the two-phase project will be $1,894,695 of which $1,598,985 will be funded by FAA. The balance of $295,710 will be financed from the Airport's current budget. Under the Airport Authority'S lease, the Commissioners must co- sponsor FAA grants. Motion: Commissioner Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Barfield to authorize acceptance of the FAA grants, if and when offered, and authorize the Chairman to execute the necessary documents. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. DISCUSSION OF CENTER LINE LIGHTS ON AIRPORT RUNWAYS Commissioner Sutton commented on receiving a compliant from a commercial pilot with reference to no center line lights on runways at the Airport and requested Staff to check into this matter County Manager O'Neal stated he would be glad to check with the Airport Director and respond to the Board. COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS Appointment of William B. Harris to Fill an Unexpired Term on the New Hanover County Planning commission Chairman Mathews reported that two nominees, william B. Harris, and J. Clark Hipp, were selected by the Commissioners at the September 8, 1992, meeting to be considered to fill the unexpired term of C. Richard Boisky on the New Hanover County Planning Commission. The floor was opened to receive a motion for appointment. Motion: Commissioner Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Sutton to appoint william B. Harris to fill the unexpired term of C. Richard Boisky on the New Hanover County Planning Commission. The term is to expire July 31, 1994. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Appointment of Mark A. Veenstra to Fill an Unexpired Term on the New Hanover county Board of Health Chairman Mathews reported that due to the resignation of W. Leslie Hall, Jr., an unexpired term in the category of professional engineer is now vacant on the New Hanover County Board of Health. After advertising, one application has been received from a professional engineer in the name of Mark A. Veenstra. Motion:. After discussion, Commissioner Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Greer. to appoint Mark A. Veenstra to fill the unexpired term of W. Leslie Hall, Jr. in the category of professional engineer on the New Hanover County Board of Health. The term will expire December 31, 1993. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Nominations for Appointments to the New Hanover Regional Medio:.:....:!. Center Board of Trustees Chairman Mathews reported that two vacancies exist on the Hospi tal Board of Trustees. Ms. Germaine F. Brewington is eligible for reappointment to serve another term since she is filling an unexpired term. Eight applications have been received and the j (- I 1 i I I I I ) I I i I I l MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, SEPTEMBER 21, 1992 PAGE.150 Hospital Board has recommended the reappointment of Ms. Brewington and appointment of Henry M. von Oesen. Chairman Mathews opened the floor to receive nominations. commissioner Barfield nominated Germaine F. Brewington for reappointment. commissioner Retchin nominated Stanley House. (j Vice-Chairman Greer nominated Dr. Dennis B. Nicks. commissioner Retchin nominated Justin Raphael. There being no further nominations, Chairman Mathews declared the nominations closed. Discussion was held on conflicts of interest, particularly with reference to the nomination of Dr. Dennis B. Nicks, a member of the Board of Directors of SurgCare, a competitive surgical facility. commissioner Sutton, a member of the Hospital Board of Trustees, reported that the Trustees are very opposed to appointing a member who solicits other surgeons to perform their services in another facility. He expressed concern for this conflict of interest and cautioned appointing a person who is a stockholder in a facility that is in direct competition with the hospital. Discussion was held on the letter recently received from Dr. Nicks stating he is willing to resign from the Board of Directors of SurgCare to resolve the conflict of interest issue. Vice- Chairman Greer stated since Dr. Nicks is volunteering to resign from the SurgCare Board of Directors and also has stated he is willing to place any SurgCare stock in a blind trust, the conflict of interest matter should be resolved. He also commented on the need to have diversification of members on various boards without all members thinking exactly alike and stated, in his opinion, the problem involved is the fact that Dr. Nicks is outspoken and will stand up for what he feels is right, not necessarily the opinion of other board members or the administrative staff. () commissioner Sutton, again, reiterated the concerns expressed by the Hospital Board of Trustees, which should be carefully considered when filling the vacant positions. After further discussion of the need for the Legal Department to review any conflicts of interest concerns and the importance of appointing a well qualified person to serve on the Hospital Board of Trustees, Chairman Mathews stated the nominees will be placed on the agenda for the regular meeting of October 5, 1992, at which time appointments will be made by the Board of County Commissioners. Appointment of Dan Eller to Fill an Unexpired Term on the Lower Cape Fear Water , Sewer Authority Chairman Mathews reported that due to the resignation of Robert Blake one vacancy exists on the Lower Cape Fear Water & Sewer Authority. Three applications have been received,' 'and a member of the Water & Sewer Authority has recommended appointment of Dan Eller. () Chairman Mathews opened the floor to receive nominations. commissioner Sutton nominated Dan Eller. There being no further nominations, Chairman Mathews declared the nominations closed. ~ MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, SEPTEMBER 21,1992 PAGE 151 Motion: Commissioner Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Greer to appoint Dan Eller to fill the unexpired term on the Lower Cape Fear Water & Sewer Authority. The term is to expire March 31, 1995. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. MEETING RECESSED TO HOLD A REGULAR MEETING OF THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY WATER , SEWER DISTRICT . Motion: Commissioner Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Greer to recess from Regular Session to hold a meeting of the Water & Sewer District. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Chairman Mathews convened from Regular Session at 9:45 A.M. Motion: Commissioner Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Sutton to reconvene to Regular Session. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Chairman Mathews reconvened to Regular Session at 10:53 A.M. ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION AWARDING RFP #93-0098 (CONTRACT 93-0098) TO SPRINGER-EUBANK FOR THE PROVISION OF FUEL FOR COUNTY USE The Commissioners were requested to adopt a resolution awarding a bid to Springer-Eubank oil Company, the lowest responsible bidder at the discounts listed in the proposal, for the provision of fuel for County Use. . The following bids were received: Springer-Eubank W. K. Hobbs, Inc. oil Company Unleaded Regular .02 per gallon .03 per gallon Midgrade Unleaded .02 per gallon .07 per gallon Premium Unleaded .04 per gallon .09 per gallon Highway Diesel .04 per gallon .04 per gallon Non-Highway Diesel .05 per gallon .08 per gallon Chairman Mathews inquired as to the source of fuel during an emergency? Purchasing Agent, Amy Akin, stated ten tanker trucks are available on a regular basis. In the event of an emergency Springer-Eubank would strategically locate these fuel trucks throughout the County as requested by the Emergency Management Director. County Manager O'Neal commented on the following features of the proposal submitted by Springer-Eubank: (1) the bid was cheaper; (2) Springer-Eubank has more service stations located throughout the County, including one in the Monkey Junction area which will save time and fuel for many County employees; and (3) the proposal did not require the County to pay for a new card system which will more accurately record mileage and allow for better records to be maintained on the operation of County vehicles. . Motion: After further discussion of this being the most competitive bid and the improved internal control system, Commissioner Barfield MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Retchin to adopt the resolution awarding the lowest responsible bid to Springer-Eubank as recommended by staff. The Chairman was authorized to execute the contract documents. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contaihed in Exhibit Book XX, Page 10. Commissioner Sutton stated he is not opposed to accepting the proposal; however, he would like for staff to accurately keep records on the cost of fuel under this contract since he does not feel money will be saved. j I r I I , l I~ MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, SEPTEMBER 21, 1992 PAGE 152 EXECUTIVE SESSION Chairman Mathews requested a motion to convene to Executive Session to discuss personnel and property matters. Motion: Commissioner Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Barfield to convene to Executive Session. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Chairman Mathews convened to Executive Session at 11:10 A.M. n Motion: Commissioner Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Greer to reconvene to Regular Session. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Chairman Mathews reconvened to Regular Session at 1:00 P.M. AUTHORIZATION TO PROCEED WITH THE PURCHASE OF PARK LAND ON U. S. HIGHWAY 421 SOUTH Chairman Mathews reported that during Executive Session the Commissioners discussed the acquisition of property located on U. S. Highway 421 South from the Cameron Corporation for development of a park in the southern part of the County. He requested the County Manager to comment on current negotiations. County Manager O'Neal stated negotiations have been reached with the Cameron Corporation for purchase of 44 acres of park land on U. S. Highway 421 South in the amount of $470,000 to be funded from the 1989 bond issue for development of park land. Ball fields and green space will be developed on this land to supply a park for residents living in this area. Staff recommends proceeding with the purchase of the property. Motion: After discussion of this property being an ideal location for development of a park as well as being reasonably priced, commissioner Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Sutton to authorize Staff to proceed with acquiring the property located on the east side of U. S. 421 South of Manassas Drive and west of Shiloh Drive from the Cameron Corporation in the amount of $470,000 for development of a park contingent upon all legal requirements being met. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. () MEETING RECESSED FOR LUNCH Chairman Mathews recessed the meeting for lunch from 1:13 P.M. until 1:45 P.M. after which a Work Session is to be held in Room 501 of the County Administration Building to discuss the activities of the Animal Control Center. MEETING RECONVENED TO HOLD A WORK SESSION ON THE ACTIVITIES AND OPERATION OF THE ANIMAL CONTROL CENTER Chairman Mathews reconvened to Regular Session at 1:51 P.M. and welcomed Health Director, Robert S. Parker, Animal Control Director, Ron Currie; Chairman of the Animal Control Advisory Board, Donna B. Neal; and Director of the Humane Society, Mary Ann Waldron. PRESENTATION ON ACTIVITIES OF THE ANIMAL CONTROL CENTER Ms. Donna Neal, Chairman of the Animal Control Advisory Board, presented background information on the formation of Animal Control and stated this service was originally subcontracted to a private individual in the mid 70's until Ms. Isabelle Holmes and Ms. Chris Evans become distraught about the conditions of the center. Being members of the New Hanover Kennel Club, they began involving all members of the club and from that point forward the following goals were accomplished: (1) acti vation of the Humane Society; (2) Animal Control was removed from the private contractor and placed under the New Hanover County Board of Health; and (3) the Animal Control Advisory Board was formed. () During the past 15 years, the Animal Control Center has made great strides. The County now has five Animal Control Officers and . . . ~ MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, SEPTEMBER 21, 1992 PAGE 153 the office is opened Monday through Friday from 8:00 A.M. until 4:30 P.M. Saturday and Sunday coverage is rotated with utilization of one Animal Control Officer from 8:00 A.M. until 3:30 P.M. For example, if weekend service is provided on Saturday of this week, service will be provided on Sunday of next week. Two to three officers are routinely in the field with the remaining officers performing administrative work, euthanasia, shelter inventory, dangerous dog investigation or court work. Calls received are prioritized as follows: Priority #1, an injured animal; Priority #2, a bite; and Priority #3, all other complaints. Discussion was held on the additional work imposed by enactment of the Dangerous Dog Law and the responsibilities of personnel. Further discussion was held on space needs and the construction of a new Animal Control building. The Animal Control Advisory Board is in the process of being sure that the proposed design of a new building will adequately handle the current capacity needs as well as future space needs. Animal Control Director, Ron Currie, expressed appreciation to the Commissioners for funding the Animal Control Center and allowing the County to develop an excellent animal control program. with the present fee schedules and Animal Control Officers, the County has an excellent program; however, in order to maintain this level of service, additional space is needed immediately. Ms. Jean McNeil commented on the rabies epidemic in North Carolina and stated this disease is being spread by wild animals, particularly raccoons. Emphasis was placed on the importance of educating the general public to ensure that all dogs and cats are vaccinated against rabies. Chairman Mathews inquired as to the most significant problem other than space needs at the center? Animal Control Director Currie stated the County will need to consider operating another shift in order to handle the volume of calls received. Discussion was held on the need for personnel to be courteous when receiving calls in the Animal Control Center. Further discussion was held on the abusive attitude of angry pet owners and the amount of patience required by all personnel in the department. Director Currie stated courtesy has been stressed many times at staff meetings; however, he will be glad to re-emphasize this point at the next staff meeting. In summary, space is the primary need. After visiting various facilities throughout the State, the design of the Craven County facility is the most desirable. The Animal Control Advisory Committee will be working with the County Manager and Building Committee for development of a building plan that will meet current and future space needs. Funds have been allocated in the FY 1992- 93 Budget for architectural services. Chairman Mathews expressed appreciation for an excellent presentation. EXECUTIVE SESSION Chairman Mathews requested an Executive Session to evaluate the performance of the County Manager, County Attorney, and Clerk to the Board. Motion: Commissioner Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Sutton to convene to Executive Session. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Chairman Mathews convened to Executive Session at 2:45 P.M. Motion: Commissioner Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Sutton to reconvene to Regular Session. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. j ------ / ( I I l .MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, .SEPTEMBER 21, ,1992 PAGE .15.4 Chairman Mathews reconvened to Regular Session 4:36 P.M. ADJOURNMENT Motion: Commissioner Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Barfield to adjourn. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Chairman Mathews adjourned the meeting at 4:37 P.M. qrt~~ Lucie F. Harrell Clerk to the Board () () ()