1993-02-15 Regular Meeting
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING AND MAPS WORK SESSION
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PAGE 317
ASSEMBLY
The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners met in Regular
Session on Monday, February 15, 1993, at 9:00 A.M. in the Assembly
Room of the New Hanover County Courthouse, 24 North Third Street,
Wilmington, North Carolina.
Members present were: Commissioners Sandra Barone; William A.
Caster; William E. Sisson, Jr.; Vice-Chairman E. L. Mathews, Jr.;
Chairman Robert G. Greer; County Manager, Allen O'Neal; County
Attorney, Wanda M. Copley; and Clerk to the Board, Lucie F.
Harrell.
Chairman Greer called. the meeting to order and welcomed
everyone present.
INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Canon Edwin E. Smith, Rector of st. Marks Episcopal Church,
gave the invocation.
Chairman Greer led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance to
the Flag.
NON-AGENDA ITEMS
Chairman Greer inquired as to whether anyone from the general
public would like to comment on an item not listed on the Regular
Agenda or an item listed on the Consent Agenda.
No comments were received.
Water & Sewer District Meeting Moved to the End of the Agenda
Vice-Chairman Mathews requested moving the Water & Sewer
District meeting to the end of the agenda since an Executi ve
Session is being requested for discussion of property acquisition.
Consensus: It was the consensus of the Board to move the Water &
Sewer District Meeting to the end of the agenda as requested by
Vice-Chairman Mathews.
APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA
Motion: Vice-Chairman Mathews MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner
Sisson to approve the Consent Agenda as presented. Upon vote, the
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
CONSENT AGENDA
Approval of Minutes
The Commissioners approved the minutes of the Regular Meeting
of February 1, 1993, and Work Sessions of January 15, 1993, and
January 29, 1993, as presented by the Clerk to the Board.
Award of Bid #93-0193-1 (Contract #93-0193-1) to RDS of canton,
North Carolina, and Award of Bid #93-0193-2 (Contract #93-0193-2)
to Carolina Office Equipment Company for Interior Furnishings for
Myrtle Grove Library
The Commissioners adopted a resolution awarding the lowest
responsible bids for interior furnishings of the Myrtle Grove
Branch Library as follows:
RDS. canton. North Carolina
Library shelving & millwork for
the interior furnishings
$33,331.00
Carolina Office Equipment Company
Seating, office furniture, and
accessories of interior furnishings
$41,913.66
The Chairman was authorized to execute the contract documents.
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING AND MAPS WORK SESSION
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PAGE 318
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XX, Page 20.
Copies of the contract are on file in the Legal Department.
Board of Equalization and Review Scheduled for April 19, 1993
The Board of County Commissioners will sit as the Board of
Equalization and Review with a meeting scheduled for Monday, April
19, 1993, at 9:00 A.M. in the New Hanover County Courthouse for the ()
purpose of hearing property owners or representatives who wish to _
present appeals.
Approval of Tax Collection Reports Through January 31, 1993
The Commissioners approv~d the following Tax Collection
Reports through January 31, 1993, 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 20.
Release of Taxes Barred by N.C.G.S. 105-378
The Commissioners approved release of the following 1982
charges since the state statute prohibits force collection of any
taxes after ten years:
Total
$102,425.14
45,357.17
5,455.10
2,924.95
992.01
$157.154.37
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New Hanover County
City of Wilmington
Wrightsville Beach
Carolina Beach
Kure Beach
These uncollected amounts represent .55% of the combined tax
levies for the County and the municipalities charged in 1982 in the
amount of $28,428,746.07. This total is composed of 312 accounts
amounting to $100 or more.
Authorization to Advertise Tax Liens on Real Property
The Commissioners authorized the Collector of Revenue to
advertise tax liens on real property to be published on March 6,
1993. The outstanding amounts as of January 31, 1993, are as
follows:
General Jurisdiction
Delinquent Tax
New Hanover County
New Hanover County Fire District
city of Wilmington
Town of Wrightsville Beach
Town of Carolina Beach
Town of Kure Beach
Total - All Jurisdictions
$2,430,135.64
46,475.24
936,967.90
49,775.64
147,842.24
27.510.86
$3.638.707.52
civil Penalty Upheld for Vehicle Listing Appeal Submitted by Linda
Sue Leadman
The Commissioners upheld the recommendation of the Tax
Administrator to assess a $100 civil penalty to Linda Sue Leadman
for failure to list a vehicle in 1991 and 1992. The penalty was
imposed on the 1992 failure to list and for false certification to
the state that the listing had been made.
Approval of Budget Amendment #93-0130 - Library
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
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PAGE 319
Library 93-0130
Debit
Credit
Librarv
Gifts and contributions
$2,000
Departmental Supplies
$2,000
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purpose: To budget a donation from the Town of Wrightsville Beach
for the Plaza East Branch Library. The funds will be used to
purchase supplies for the new branch.
Release of Value - Tax Department
The Commissioners approved releases of value as recommended by
the Tax Administrator for the following purposes: (1) taxpayers
certifying they listed on time in another county; (2) taxpayers
certifying they listed during the listing period; (3) taxpayers
requesting value adjustments on property because of conditions that
have not been brought to the attention of the Tax Department; and
(4) delinquent applications for exemption from property tax.
A list of the tax releases is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XX, Page 20.
Reclassification of Library Assistant Position to Librarian I
The Commissioners approved reclassification of the Library
Assistant position to Librarian I as recommended by the Human
Resources Department due to changes within the Library's
organization and use of new technology.
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RECOGNITION OF COUNTY EMPLOYEES AS ONE OF THE TOP 25 CONTRIBUTING
ORGANIZATIONS TO THE CAPE FEAR AREA UNITED WAY
Chairman Greer reported on the excellent job performed by Joe
Judkins as the Chairman of the County's United Way Drive, and
presented a certificate of Appreciation from the United Way in
recognition of County employees who so generously contributed to
the united Way during difficult economic times, which allowed New
Hanover County to become one of the top 25 accounts.
PRESENTATION OF NEW HANOVER COUNTY EMPLOYEE SERVICE AWARDS
County Manager 0' Neal reported on presenting service awards as
anniversary dates occur and requested the following persons to step
forward to receive service award pins:
Martin Adams - Sheriff's Department
Dorothy Colson - Health Department
William Register - Sheriff's Department
Ruth Roethlinger - Health Department
John Davis - Human Relations
Mikell Kent-Guy - DSS
Mamie Nixon - Health Department
Michael Braswell - Tax Department
Janice Woodbury - Health Department
James Watts, Jr. - Sheriff's Dept.
5 year award
5 year award
5 year award
5 year award
10 year award
10 year award
10 year award
15 year award
15 year award
20 year award
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Chairman Greer, on behalf of the Board, expressed appreciation
to these employees for their dedicated service to New Hanover
County.
RECOGNITION OF NEW EMPLOYEES
County Manager O'Neal introduced the following new County
employees:
Daisy Brown
Candace Sancilio
Carolyn Jackson-smith
victoria Overton
Debbie Lanier
Christina Ham
Lewis Porter
Health Department
Health Department
Social Services
Social Services
Social Services
Social Services
Environmental Management
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Billy Rich
James Jones
Property Management
Property Management
Chairman Greer, on behalf of the Commissioners, welcomed the
new employees and wished them well in their new positions.
RULES OF PROCEDURE FOR MEETINGS OF THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF
COMMISSIONERS
Chairman Greer presented the following amendments to the
proposed Rules of Procedure:
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Paqe 13. Rule 29. Committee Appointments:
Amend the committee appointment procedure to allow
appointments to be made at one meeting instead of
receiving nominations at one meeting with appointments
being made at the next meeting.
Amend the committee appointment procedure to require a
second on all nominations.
other Amendments:
The word, Chair, is to be changed to Chairman throughout
the entire document.
Amend Rule 9. Aqenda. All agenda items for a regular
meeting must be received 12 (twelve) calendar days
instead of 10 (ten) calendar days before the meeting.
Vice-Chairman Mathews expressed appreciation to the former
County Attorney, Robert W. Pope, and to County Attorney, Wanda M.
Copley, for preparing the Rules of Procedure.
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Motion: Commissioner Barone MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman
Mathews to approve the Rules of Procedure as amended. Upon vote,
the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
A copy of the policy is hereby incorporated as a part of the
minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XX, Page 20.
AUTHORIZATION FOR FILING OF REHABILITATION INCENTIVE PROGRAM GRANT
APPLICATION THROUGH THE NORTH CAROLINA HOUSING TRUST FUND
Staff Planner, Wanda Coston, reported on the Rehabilitation
Incentive Program funded through the N. C. Housing Trust Fund which
encourages the rehabilitation of housing occupied by very low, low
and moderate income persons. Previous grants were administered
through the Wilmington Housing Finance & Development Corporation
with rehabilitation of 29 homes in the unincorporated areas of the
county. The County is now ready to administer the program and
apply for a grant in the amount of $90,000 with a County match of
up to $5,000 per house.
Chairman Greer inquired as to the source of revenue for the
County's match?
Planner Coston stated funds are available in the Plumbing
Improvements/Sewer Connection Assistance Program.
Motion: After discussion of this being a worthwhile program,
Commissioner Sisson MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Barone to
authorize the Planning Staff to submit the grant application in the
amount of $90,000 with the County committing up to $5,000 per
dwelling for rehabilitation of 12 dwellings in the unincorporated
areas of the County and to authorize the County Manager to sign the
grant application. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
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APPROVAL OF ONE ADDITIONAL MECHANICAL INSPECTOR POSITION FOR THE
INSPECTIONS DEPARTMENT AND APPROVAL OF BUDGET AMENDMENT #93-0131
Inspections Director, Sky Conklin, reported on the number of
new permits issued and presented the following figures:
PAGE 321
1988-89 12,400 permits 10.7 inspections per day
1989-90 17,000 permits 14.66 inspections per day
. 1990-91 15,548 permit 11. 21 inspections per day
1991-92 18,200 permit 15.8 inspections per day
*projections for 1993-94: If the current rate continues,
18,600 permits will be issued at 16.04 inspections
per day.
Mechanical Inspectors are averaging over 14 inspections per
day, while the generally accepted maximum allowable is 10 to 12.
Allowing this overload to exist will ultimately impact public
safety and hinder the department's ability to provide timely
inspections. Actual permit fee revenues for the fiscal year to
date are more than $150,000 higher than projected; therefore,
adequate funds are available to cover the cost of hiring a new
Mechanical Inspector. Emphasis was placed on the importance of
properly inspecting building structures and the need to hire the
additional Mechanical Inspector to perform satisfactory
inspections. The Commissioners were requested to approve the new
position and associated Budget Amendment.
Motion: After discussion of the need to properly inspect buildings,
Commissioner Sisson MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Mathews to
approve a new Mechanical Inspector position for the Inspections
Department contingent upon the position being eliminated if permit
fees should decrease and no longer cover the costs of the position
and to approve the following Budget Amendment:
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93-0131 Inspections Department
Debit
Credit
Inspections
Inspection Fees
$11,091
Salaries & Wages
FICA
Medical Insurance
$9,474
$ 743
$ 874
Purpose: To budget Inspection fees for additional Mechanical
Inspector position.
Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
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AUTHORIZATION FOR SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT TO SEEK BIDS FOR COMPUTER
AIDED DISPATCH SYSTEM
Sheriff Joe McQueen reported on implementation of a 50-cent
surcharge in October 1991 for the purpose of generating sufficient
revenues to establish a Centralized Emergency 911 Center through
the purchase of a Computer Aided Dispatch System for the Sheriff's
Department. This system will provide the 911 dispatchers with
newly developed capabilities that will decrease the response time
of all emergency services by providing a graphical representation
(mapping) of the emergency location. The rate of survival for
emergency responses will be improved through the use of Emergency
Medical Dispatch procedures and Pre-Arrival Instructions.
Sufficient funds have accumulated in the surcharge account to
seek bid specifications, and it is anticipated that the remaining
funds will have accumulated by the time the system is acquired and
installed. The Commissioners were requested to authorize the
Sheriff's Department to seek public bid specifications for the
proposed Computer Aided Dispatch System. Once the cost of the
system is finalized, a funding request will be made from the
surcharge appropriation.
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Discussion was held on the annual operating cost of $180,000
for the CAD System. Sheriff McQueen reported that $36,000 is
collected per month from the 911 surcharge, which will pay for the
system within two years as well as cover the operational cost. At
the end of two years, the surcharge could be reduced; however, the
department would like to evaluate the system to see if additional
functions should be added.
Further discussion was held on eliminating the surcharge. ()
County Manager O'Neal stated after two years, the Commissioners may
desire to reduce the surcharge; however, he would recommend that
the surcharge remain in effect to cover operational costs.
commissioner Caster commented on the need to monitor the
surcharge and recommended a review of the fee after two years.
Further discussion was held on the need to better inform and
educate the public on the purpose of the 911 surcharge. Sheriff
McQueen reported staff is working on opening the facility to the
general public two or three days a week in order for the public to
actually see the equipment and operation of the 911 Center.
commissioner Barone recommended usage of the sewer billing
system as a vehicle for forwarding information to the public.
Flyers could be forwarded with the billing explaining the 911
surcharge and the availability of tours. Commissioner Barone
emphasized the importance of informing the public as to how County
funds are being expended and stated she is opened to any
suggestions for better public relations.
County Manager O'Neal reported on the sewer billing being a
computerized billing with usage of a portion of the bill for the
return envelope and stated staff will check into some other method ()
for distribution of information.
After further discussion, County Manager O'Neal recommended
bid specifications being written so that bids for the Computer
Aided Dispatch System will be valid through mid-July 1993 in order
for this item to be considered with the regular budget process.
The $180,000 yearly operational costs must be considered;
therefore, with many unknowns for the FY 1993-94 Budget, it is
difficult to conclude that final approval should be granted for
purchase of the system. At the present time sufficient capital
does not exist; however, if the surcharge remains in place through
FY 1993-94, sufficient funds will be available.
Motion: Commissioner Sisson MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Caster
to approve the County Manager's recommendation. The floor was
opened for discussion.
Chairman Greer inquired as to whether voting on this issue
will increase next year's budget by $180,000?
county Manager O'Neal stated authorizing the Sheriff to seek
bids will allow staff to know the exact capital cost and allow the
Commissioners to consider this bid as part of the budgetary
process.
Chairman Greer reminded the Board that use of the 911 funds ()
through 1995 could delay other projects.
Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
BREAK
Chairman Greer called for a break from 9:58 A.M. until 10:25
A.M.
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NO ACTION NECESSARY ON PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE
AFFECTING EMPLOYEES SUBJECT TO THE STATE PERSONNEL ACT
County Manager O'Neal reported on receiving word as of this
morning that the proposed amendment to the state Personnel Act was
defeated at the committee level; therefore, no action will be
required. Also, it was felt by the North Carolina Association of
County Commissioners that defeat of this amendment was due to the
letter of opposition forwarded by County Attorney, Wanda Copley,
which very amply defined the negative impact upon local
governments.
Consensus: Discussion was held on future legislative issues. It
was the consensus of the Board to direct the County Manager to
place legislative issues on future agendas as discussion items.
PRESENTATION OF PROPOSED BOND ISSUES BY THE CAPE FEAR COMMUNITY
COLLEGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES AND THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF
EDUCATION
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Presentation of Proposed $13,900,000 Bond Referendum for Cape Fear
community College
Dr. Richard Conrath, President of ' Cape Fear Community College,
expressed appreciation to the Board of County Commissioners for
past support of the Community College and introduced the following
members the Cape Fear Community College Board of Trustees:
Connie O'Dell
Mary Elizabeth Hood
Barbara Schwartz
Bill Taylor
Franklin Williams
Dr. Conrath reported on this being the first bond issue to be
presented to the Board of County Commissioners since 1972 and
stated the purpose of the proposed bond issue is to construct new
buildings and renovate old buildings to accommodate the number of
students and programs being administered by Cape Fear Community
College. The enrollment has continually increased since 1958 at a
rate of 3-5% per year with a growth of 12-13% this fall. The space
needs have become critical and funds are needed to provide
facilities.
Dr. Conrath introduced Ms. Connie 0' Dell and Mr. Franklin
Williams to explain the proposed bond issue.
Ms. Connie O'Dell, Vice-Chairman of the Board of Trustees,
expressed appreciation for past support and reported on the
desperate need for space. The Commissioners were requested to
approve a voter bond referendum for issuance of general obligation
bonds in the amount of $13,900,000 for expansion of the college.
Mr. Franklin Williams, a member of the Cape Fear Community
College Board of Trustees, commented on educational needs and
stressed the importance of providing the necessary skills for a
well trained work force. The original plan identified 350,000 sq.
ft. of needed space at a projected cost of $18,000,000; however,
due to the present economy and budgetary constraints, this figure
has been reduced to 95,500 sq. ft. at a projected cost of
$13,900,000. This plan will allow for construction of the Allied
Health Building and Work Force Preparedness Training Center.
Commissioner Caster inquired as to the number of out-of-county
students who attend Cape Fear Community College? Dr. Conrath
reported that from an enrollment of 7,000 to 8,000 students
approximately 1,000 students are from Pender County and 700 from
other counties.
commissioner Caster inquired as to why the Community College
continues to accept more students with inadequate space?
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Dr. Conrath reported that state law requires Community
Colleges to be open door institutions; however, the law does not
address the issue of space. with the University System upgrading
admission standards, the Community College has become the only
other institution that provides access to higher education. Under
emergency circumstances, the College could abide by an enrollment
figure, but this would erode the entire purpose of the Community
college System.
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Mr. Ronald Blickhahn, Finance Director of Cape Fear community
College, reported on the process of developing a Master Plan for
identifying space needs and stated being sensitive to the recent
economic climate, the $13,900,000 bond issue is a bare bones
proposal. This plan will provide $13,000,000 for new construction"
and $900,000 for renovation of existing facilities to cover space'
needs for the next five years.
commissioner Barone inquired as to whether the College will
remain downtown and if the Trustees have considered use of vacant
buildings in the vicinity?
Mr. Williams reported that Cape Fear Community College will
remain in the downtown area and that buildings have been toured
within a two-block area with the conclusion that renovation costs
would be too costly because the structures are not suitable for
classroom purposes.
commissioner Barone inquired as to whether the
acquisition cost is included in the $13,900,000 and if
philanthropic citizen has volunteered to donate land?
land
any
Mr. Williams stated land acquisition is not included in the
bond issue and that no land donations have been received.
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commissioner Barone inquired as whether the community College
will be requesting funds for other items?
Dr. Conrath stated the funds in the bond issue will
accommodate identified needs for the next five years, but will not
meet the needs until the year 2000 as outlined in the Master Plan.
commissioner Sisson inquired as to the flexibility of the May
date for the bond referendum?
Dr. Conrath stated deferral of the May date will not be a
problem for the community College:
Discussion was held on cooperation between the Board of
Education and the Cape Fear community College Board of Trustees
with reference to the Technology Center. Vice-Chairman Mathews
inquired as to whether better communications can be achieved
between the two boards?
Mr. Williams reported on a cooperative working relationship
with the Board of Education and stated when the high tech center
was proposed, there was disagreement. It is the opinion of the
Board of Trustees that Cape Fear community College has greater f\
needs in other areas. ~~~
Chairman Greer inquired as to whether each bond issue will be
voted upon separately and also asked if the bond issue should fail,
what route will the College pursue? Concern was expressed for the
County being requested to fund these space needs when the voters
have decided against the bond issue.
Mr. Williams stated each bond issue will be voted upon
separately; however, if the bond issue should fail, the Community
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College will continue to operate. It is hoped that the citizens
will recognize the need for space and approve the bond issue.
Chairman Greer, on behalf of the Board, expressed appreciation
to Dr. Conrath and the Cape Fear Community College Board of
Trustees for the presentation.
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Presentation of Proposed $39,909,729 Bond Referendum for New
Hanover County Schools
Superintendent of Schools, Tom McNeel, expressed appreciation
for the cooperative working relationship among the Board of County
Commissioners, Board of Education, School Officials, and County
Staff. He introduced Ms. Janice Cavenaugh, Chairman of the Board
of Education, to present the proposed bond issue.
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Ms. Janice Cavenaugh reported on development of a facilities
plan for the past four years. The North Carolina Department of
Public Instruction was requested to provide an intensive evaluation
of school facilities and future needs. After receipt of this
report, a Community Advisory Committee was formed to make
recommendations to the Board of Education. The members of the
Committee and Board of Education visited every school facility.
Using the data collected, the Board of Education developed a
Facilities Plan. After the new Board of Education members took
office in December, it was determined that more recent demographic
information necessitated further review of space needs. At this
time, the County Commissioners were contacted with the
understanding that a bond referendum could be held in the spring.
Once the bond figure was compiled and the County Commissioners were
informed of the amount, it was determined that the bond issue would
have to be reduced. After holding a meeting this morning, the
Board of Education has reluctantly decided by unanimous vote to
reduce the bond issue by $15,000,000 which will temporarily delay
construction of a fourth high school and add small additions to
Laney High School and Hoggard High School. Emphasis was placed on
the word, "temporary" since the proposed bond issue will currently
address overcrowding in the high schools and elementary schools for
a very short period of time.
The Commissioners were requested to support the bond issue in
the amount of $39,909,729 to be presented to the voters of New
Hanover County in the spring, not in the 'fall. A delay of the bond
referendum will cause construction to be deferred for a year with
the inability to occupy any new elementary schools for at least
three years. The needs of the County schools are critical with
schools being overcrowded, obsolete, and in disrepair. Due to
economic conditions, the Board of Education has held off as long as
possible, and it is imperative that these space needs are met.
Ms. Cavenaugh expressed appreciation to the Commissioners for
hearing the presentation and introduced the following members of
the Board of Education who voted unanimously to reduce the bond
issue as presented:
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Allene C. Keith
James R. pierce
Lori Stephenson
Rachel Freeman
Edward Wayne Mayorga
Lucille Shaffer
Chairman Greer opened the floor to receive questions. The
following remarks were presented and discussed.
Vice-Chairman Mathews expressed concern for the implication
that the proposed funding will be temporary and requested an
explanation of this statement.
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Ms. Cavenaugh stated the proposed bond issue will only address
facilities needs for the next four years; therefore, the Board of
Education will be requesting another bond referendum or some form
of funding to handle overcrowding in the high schools and
elementary schools.
commissioner Caster expressed appreciation to the Board of
Education for the time and effort given to prepare the bond issue
and stated when campaigning to serve as a County Commissioner, he
ran on the platform that the New Hanover County educational system
should be second to none in the state of North Carolina or the
nation. After being elected as a County Commissioner and having
the responsibility of levying the tax rate, with all county needs
being examined, he is concerned that the proposed bond issue
pertains only to bricks and mortar. The proposed bond issue does
not address the action occurring in the classroom. The citizens
have been informed that improvement of the facilities will
encourage students to learn more and teachers to teach better;
however, during his military career, his children moved around the
country attending small schools with no frill facilities that
provided an excellent quality of education because of the quality
of teachers. Commissioner Caster expressed concern for new
facilities not really sOlving the problem and stated somehow the
action in the classroom must be addressed. Also, he expressed
concern for both bond proposals not fulfilling future needs for
more than five years and stated until further study, he cannot make
a decision. Time was requested to discuss this matter with the
County's financial advisors to. see if 10-year goals can be
accomplished by spreading out construction projects and, if
necessary, hold a referendum that will carry both institutions into
21st Century and fulfill the identified needs. Emphasis was placed
on the need to know the financial impact on the County before
making a decision.
Ms. Cavenaugh commented on the Board of Education not being
required to seek approval from the Board of County Commissioners
for changes in educational programs and stated the Board of
Education and Dr. McNeel are diligently searching to find the
answers to social problems that are negatively impacting on
education in the classrooms. As to information on the bond issue,
she feels the Board has been fully informed.
commissioner Caster inquired as to the amount of funds
recommended by the N. C. Department of Public Instruction?
Ms. Cavenaugh reported $100 million dollars. The Community
Advisory Committee, approximately two years ago, recommended
establishment of a Technology Center instead of constructing a
fourth high school at a projected figure of $32,000,000. This
figure did not include architectural/engineering fees, land cost,
furnishings, and contingencies which would have increased the
figure to $36,000,000.
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commissioner sisson reported on trying to follow the process
and stated at one time the Technology Center was to be a part of
the bond issue; however, he was informed that due to
undercapitalized projected expenditures and a lack of participation
by the business community for equipment and furnishings, the center ~
was removed from the bond issue. Disappointment was expressed for ~ ~
this item being removed, and concern was expressed for the private ~
sector not participating as anticipated with a recommendation that
everyone should work together in creating a cooperative
relationship for pUblic/private projects which relieves a portion
of the burden placed upon the taxpayers.
commissioner sisson commented on the cost of maintenance and
inquired as to why new schools are being constructed before
replacement of older schools which require larger sums of money for
maintenance?
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d
Ms. Cavenaugh stated space is needed immediately and that
replacement of older schools does not provide additional
classrooms.
Chairman Greer inquired as to why the Board of Education is so
intent on holding the bond referendum in the spring?
.
Ms. Cavenaugh stated the bond issue should be held when the
schools are in session with parents acti ve and Parent Teacher
Organizations being in full force; therefore, in her opinion, a
successful bond issue cannot be held in the summer when students
and parents are out of town on vacation. Also, in the early fall,
school is just beginning with no officers elected for the Parent
Teacher Organizations or the support structure being in place for
a bond referendum.
Discussion was held on the financial impact on New Hanover
County. County Finance Director, Andrew J. Atkinson, reported that
the construction period can be spread out over the authorization
period in order to avoid the overall financial impact at one time.
When bonds are sold, the first interest payment is due six months
from the date of sale with the first principal and interest payment
due one year from the date of sale; therefore, the first full
principal and interest payment would not be due until FY 1995-96.
Chairman Greer, on behalf of the Board, expressed appreciation
to the members of the Board of Education for the work performed in
preparing the bond proposal.
Chairman Greer requested direction from the Commissioners.
.
commissioner Caster requested more time to further study the
financial impact on the tax rate.
Consensus: After further discussion, it was the consensus of the
Board to delay making a decision until further study of the
financial impact upon the County with more discussion to be held at
the end of the meeting.
Chairman Greer also reported on the need for the Board of
Education to round off the dollar amount of the bond issue to
either $39,900,000 or $40,000,000 in order to comply to bond
regulations.
BREAK
Chairman Greer called for a break from 11:40 A.M. until 12:04
P.M.
MEETING CONVENED FROM REGULAR SESSION TO HOLD A MEETING OF THE NEW
HANOVER COUNTY WATER , SEWER DISTRICT
Motion: Commissioner Barone MOVED, SECONDED by Chairman Greer to
convene from Regular Session to hold a meeting of the New Hanover
County Water & Sewer District. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
. Chairman Greer convened from Regular Session at 12:05 P.M.
Motion: Commissioner Sisson MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Barone
to reconvene to Regular Session. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
Chairman Greer reconvened to Regular Session at 12:41 P.M.
COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS
Chairman Greer commented on the newly adopted
Procedure and stated any nominations presented will
second in order to be considered for a vote.
Rules of
require a
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APPOINTMENT OF LEROY D. MARSHBURN TO SERVE ON THE DOMICILIARY HOME
ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Chairman Greer reported that one vacancy exists on the
Domiciliary Home Advisory Committee due to the resignation of Donna
Irwin. Two applications have been received in the names of Joanne
Arntsen and Leroy D. Marshburn.
Chairman Greer opened the floor to receive nominations.
The 0
Vice-Chairman Mathews nominated Leroy D. Marshburn.
nomination was seconded by Commissioner sisson.
There being no further nominations, Chairman Greer declared
the nominations closed.
Vote: Upon vote, Leroy D. Marshburn was UNANIMOUSLY appointed to
fill the unexpired term of Donna Irwin on the Domiciliary Home
Advisory Committee. The term will expire on February 15, 1994.
APPOINTMENT OF ROBERT F. RUFFNER, JR. AND REAPPOINTMENT OF WILLIAM
H. CAMERON TO SERVE ON THE INDUSTRIAL FACILITIES AND POLLUTION
CONTROL FINANCING AUTHORITY
Chairman Greer reported that two vacancies exist on the
Industrial Facilities and Pollution Control Financing Authority.
Mr. William H. Cameron and Mr. Don Stanley Cooke are eligible for
reappointment and desire to be reappointed.
The following applications have been received:
william H. Cameron
Don Stanley Cooke
Robert F. Ruffner, Jr.
Chairman Greer opened the floor to receive nominations.
o
Commissioner Barone nominated Robert F. Ruffner, Jr. The
nomination was seconded by Vice-Chairman Mathews.
Commissioner sisson nominated Don Stanley Cooke for
reappointment. The nomination DID NOT RECEIVE A SECOND and was not
considered.
commissioner Caster nominated william H. Cameron for
reappointment. The nomination was seconded by Commissioner Barone
There being no further nominations, Chairman Greer declared
the nominations closed.
Vote: Upon vote, Robert F. Ruffner, Jr. was appointed to serve a
six year term on the New Hanover Industrial Facilities and
Pollution Control Financing Authority. The term is to expire
February 22, 1999. The MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS:
voting Aye: Commissioner Barone
Commissioner Caster
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Chairman Greer
voting Nay: commissioner sisson
o
Vote: Upon vote, william H. Cameron was UNANIMOUSLY reappointed to
serve a six year term on the New Hanover Industrial Facilities and
Pollution Control Financing Authority. The term is to expire
February 22, 1999.
REAPPOINTMENT OF ESTELL LEE AND RICHARD G. CATLIN TO SERVE ON THE
PORT, WATERWAY AND BEACH COMMISSION
Chairman Greer reported that two vacancies exist on the Port,
Waterway, and Beach Commission in the shipping industry and
.
.
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING AND MAPS WORK SESSION
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PAGE 329
environmental categories. The following applications have been
received with Estell Lee and Richard G. Catlin expressing a desire
to be reappointed:
APPLICANTS:
Shipping Industrv Representative
Estell Lee
Melvin W. Rollins
Environmental Representative
Richard G. Catlin
Non-Cateqorized Applicants
Walter Hickey
John Watkins, Sr.
Chairman Greer opened the floor to receive nominations.
vice-Chairman Mathews, nominated Estell Lee for reappointment.
The nomination was seconded by Commissioner Barone.
commissioner Sisson nominated Richard G. Catlin for
reappointment. The nomination was seconded by Chairman Greer.
There being no further nominations, Chairman Greer declared
the nominations closed.
Vote: Upon vote, Estell Lee was UNANIMOUSLY reappointed to serve
a three year term on the Wilmington/New Hanover Port, Waterway &
Beach Commission as a shipping industry representative. The term
will expire February 28, 1996.
Vote: Upon vote, Richard G. Catlin was UNANIMOUSLY reappointed to
serve a three year term on the Wilmington/New Hanover Port,
Waterway & Beach Commission as an environmental representative.
The term will expire February 28, 1996.
APPOINTMENT OF CANON EDWIN SMITH TO SERVE AS THE RELIGIOUS
REPRESENTATIVE ON THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY STRATEGIC PLANNING COUNCIL
Chairman Greer reported on the consensus of the Board at the
February 1, 1993, meeting to appoint a religious representative
from the following applicants:
Harold B. Cloud
Barren E. Nobles
Edwin E. Smith
Commissioner Barone reported on a conversation with Jonathan
Alper, Chairman of the Strategic Planning Council, and stated he is
interested in an applicant with an educational and religious
background.
Chairman Greer stated Mr. Alper has also requested that the
Board consider appointment of a minority to fill the vacancy.
Chairman Greer opened the floor to receive nominations.
Commissioner Sisson nominated Cannon Edwin Smith. The
nomination was seconded by Vice-Chairman Mathews.
Commissioner Barone nominated Barren E. Nobles. The
NOMINATION DID NOT RECEIVE A SECOND and was not considered.
There being no further nominations, Chairman Greer declared
the nominations closed.
Vote: Upon vote, Canon Edwin E. Smith was appointed to serve on
the Strategic Planning Team as follows:
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING AND MAPS WORK SESSION
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PAGE 330
voting Aye: Commissioner Caster
commissioner sisson
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Chairman Greer
voting Nay: Commissioner Barone
REAPPOINTMENT OF WILLIAM A. RANEY, JR., GENE RENZAGLIA, AND CHARLES
WALL TO SERVE ON THE WASTE-TO-ENERGY FACILITY COMMISSION 0
Chairman Greer reported that three vacancies exist on the
Waste-to-Energy Facility Commission. Thirteen applications have
been received and three of the current members are eligible for
reappointment and desire to be reappointed as follows:
MEMBERS ELIGIBLE FOR REAPPOINTMENT:
william A. Raney, Jr.
Gene Renzaglia
Charles Wall
APPLICATION ON FILE:
D. Bouton Baldridge
Nello Fillippini
Irving E. Fogler
Edgar C. Fox
Ralph L. Harding
Donna N. Humphrey
Mary Farmer Johnson
Thomas Ray McKay, Jr.
Harry L. Mahl
Larry E. Myles
Dana E. Page
Roger Spurbeck
John Watkins, Sr.
commissioner Caster, serving as the Commissioners'
representative on the WTE Facility Commission, commented on the
expertise of the applicants who have applied and stated even though
these individuals are highly skilled, it would be advantageous to ()
the WTE Facility Commission to reappoint the persons now serving ~
since they are familiar with the problems of the facility and the
major issues currently being addressed.
Motion: Commissioner Barone MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Caster
to reappoint William A. Raney, Jr.; Gene Renzaglia; and Charles
Wall to serve three year terms on the WTE Facility commission. The
terms are to expire March 1, 1996. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
commissioner sisson commented on the need for citizens to feel
they have input on the WTE Facility Commission and recommended
establishing an at-large member to serve on the Commission.
commissioner Caster inquired as to whether this is a permanent
committee?
Clerk to the Board, Lucie F. Harrell, stated the intent of the
former Board was for this to be a permanent Advisory Commission.
Assistant County Manager, Dave Weaver, reported the by-laws
allow for appointment of a community at-large member.
Consensus: After further discussion, it was the consensus of the 0
Board to consider adding an at-large member in the future.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
Chairman Greer reported the County Manager
Executive Session to discuss a property
consultation with the County Attorney.
has requested an
acquisition and
Motion: Commissioner Barone MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman
Mathews to convene from Regular Session to Executive Session for
the purpose of discussing a property acquisition and consultation
with the County Attorney. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING AND MAPS WORK SESSION
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PAGE 331
Chairman Greer convened from Regular Session at 1:30 P.M.
Motion: Commissioner Barone MOVED, SECONDED by Chairman Greer to
reconvene to Regular Session. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
.
Chairman Greer reconvened to Regular Session at 2:20 P.M.
MEETING RECESSED FOR LUNCH
Chairman Greer recessed the meeting for lunch from 2:21 P.M.
until 2:45 P.M. and stated a Work Session to hear a presentation on
the Management & Planning Systems (MAPS) will be held in Room 501
of the New Hanover County Administration Building, 320 Chestnut
Street, Wilmington, North Carolina, with continuation of the
regular meeting after the Work Session.
COMMISSIONER SISSON EXCUSED FROM WORK SESSION
Commissioner Sisson was excused from the meeting at 2:20 P.M.
due to a prior commitment.
Chairman Greer reconvened to Special Session and requested the
Planning Director to present an update on the Management & Planning
Systems.
PRESENTATION ON MANAGEMENT , PLANNING SYSTEMS (MAPS)
Planning Director, Dexter Hayes, reported on the development
of the City/County MAPS Program in August 1984 and stated a joint
interlocal agreement was adopted by the City and County in 1985
with establishment of a MAPS Advisory Task Force composed as
follows:
-Three County Staff Members
.
-Three City Staff Members
-One full time Senior Analyst position funded jointly by
the City and County. (This position is currently vacant.)
-One half-time position funded by the County.
-One half-time position funded by the city.
Requests for Proposals were submitted in 1984 with a firm now
know as GeoVision Systems, Inc. being awarded the bid for the
software program. Projected MAPS expenditures and location of work
stations were presented. Work stations are currently located as
follows: (1) County Tax Office; (2) County Planning Department;
(3) City Engineering Department; (4) County Building & Engineering
Office; and (5) City WLI Building.
After review and study, the MAPS Advisory Task Force
recommends the following action to provide use of MAPS to all
City/County agencies and the general public:
I. Brina the existing MAPS data base UP to the level of accuracy
necessary to operate MAPS and make MAPS usable for functions
demanding a hiah level of accuracv. such as sewer design and
enaineering:
.
The present MAPS tax parcel data base was digitized by an
outside firm using the existing tax maps (hand-drawn maps on
mylar). Although these existing tax maps serve the functions
required by the Tax Department to generally locate parcels for
tax appraisal and listing requirements, they contain numerous
inaccuracies, such as parcel lines not being exactly matched.
These inaccuracies cannot be tolerated either by the MAPS
system or by users that require survey-quality accuracy, such
as sewer design. In order to accomplish the correction of the
existing data base, it will be necessary to take the following
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING AND MAPS WORK SESSION
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steps, which will cost several hundreds of thousands of
dollars to implement:
Contract to develop orthophotos of the County (1 inch by
100 feet). The air photography can be flown in January
1994 with the actual orthophotos being provided over
several budget years in order to even out the costs. It
is important to note that these orthophotos will also be
valuable in future sewer design and that the cost will be ()
partially recouped through user fees from developers and
the general public.
Contract with a firm to correct the existinq MAPS data
base. An outside digitizing firm would be hired to
digitize and correct the existing MAPS tax parcel maps as
necessary, using the orthophotography, deeds, and other
information. The firm could begin work the spring of
1994.
II. Update the MAPS data base by diqitizinq new subdivisions and
other parcel chanqes that have been placed into the MAPS data base:
The Land Records Division is approximately 5.5 man years
behind in this task and is falling further behind every month. It
is important to note that the Tax Department, through Land Records,
is required to provide a readily available tax map system to the
public. In an effort to update and correct the MAPS data base, the
Tax Department has been forced to neglect its set of hand-drawn
maps. This neglect is seriously hindering the Tax Department's
ability to serve the public; therefore, it is recommended that Land
Records be authorized to hire one or two additional mappers in
1993-94 and possibly one GIS hardware operator to work on the MAPS
System. In addition, another work station will be required.
()
III. Improve the effectiveness of the MAPS hardware and software
system:
The County is currently two versions behind in available
Geovision software. The most recent version has features that will
provide a much faster and efficient method of updating and using
the MAPS database. To use the most recent version, the County and
city work stations as well as the shared central computing facility
will have to be updated. This will require cooperation with the
City because both the city and County are required to use the same
software version since both presently share the same database and
central processing unit. The County could develop its own central
computing systems if the city chooses not to participate.
In order to explore the feasibility of updating the hardware
and software, the County should take the following actions as soon
as practical:
1) In cooperation with the city, hire a new MAPS Coordinator.
A firm offer has been made to an applicant.
2) Once a new Coordinator is hired, bring in a Geovision
representative to assess the hardware needs of the County and
ci ty in order to implement the transi tion to the latest ()
software.
3) Contact the State Land Records staff to see if they can
offer technical expertise.
4) Develop a new cooperati ve agreement with the city to
upgrade hardware as needed.
5) Purchase the new hardware, hopefully at a cost of less
than $100,000.
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The following applications were presented for use of the MAPS
System:
.
Urban Planning/Land Use Analysis
Public Works Infrastructure Management
Tax Assessment
Land Development
Cadastral and Topographic Mapping
Network Facility Management
Base Map Maintenance
Permitting and Licensing
Demographic and Census Studies
Service Requests and Complaint Tracking
Incident Analysis
Transportation Analysis and Planning
Facility siting
Building Permitting and Inspection
Safety Inspection and Code Enforcement
Environmental Monitoring
Emergency Dispatch
Property Management
In summary, it will take a period of several years to
establish MAPS as a valuable geographic information system that
will justify the considerable funds invested to serve County and
City agencies. The Tax Department should be commended for its
continued commitment to MAPS. The Planning Department has been
invaluable in its role of coordinating and promoting the use of
MAPS, while MIS has been most helpful in its technical support of
MAPS.
".
Tax Administrator, Roland Register, commented on the
importance of accurately updating MAPS and stated hiring a firm to
perform digitizing will enable the job to be performed in a timely
manner. Emphasis was placed on the fact that additional staff
would have to be hired in order to perform this task in-house.
Once the system is updated, staff will be capable of maintaining
the system.
County Manager O'Neal reported that no decision is needed at
this time; however, when the budget is presented a breakdown of
funds required for updating the MAPS System will be presented.
Chairman Greer expressed appreciation to staff for an
excellent presentation.
The Work Session was adjourned at 4:25 P.M.
MEETING RECONVENED TO REGULAR SESSION
Chairman Greer reconvened to Regular Session at 4:26 P.M.
ADDITIONAL ITEMS - COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
.
Scheduling of Global Transpark, Inc. Foundation Presentation for
March 15, 1993
Discussion was held on New Hanover County being one of the
counties requested to provide $10,000 seed money and possible
implementation of a 1/2 cent sales tax to secure the Global
TransPark for Eastern North Carolina.
Chairman Greer expressed concern for investing government
funds and stated the idea of a 1/2 cent sales tax is certainly
questionable at this time.
County Manager O'Neal commented on the importance of this
facility to the State Ports Authority and recommended that this
item be placed on a future agenda.
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PAGE 334
Consensus: After further discussion, it was the consensus of the
Board to place this item on the agenda for March 15, 1993, to hear
a presentation from the Global TransPark Task Force.
Discussion of Bond Issues for Cape Fear community College and New
Hanover County Public Schools
Discussion was held on the proposed bond issues. Chairman
Greer requested the County Manager to prepare figures that will
reflect how the repayment of bonds will impact New Hanover County.
Commissioner Caster requested a spread sheet showing the
direct financial impact upon the County from the date of sale into
the upcoming years. Emphasis was placed on the need to support the
bond issues with facts and figures.
C)
Discussion was held on the possibility of the bond issue being
rej ected by the voters of New Hanover County. Chairman Greer
expressed concern for the issue failing and at a later date being
asked by the Board of Education and Cape Fear Community College to
fund space needs which have been rej ected by the voters. He
inquired as to whether the Commissioners should inform both boards
that if the bond referendum should fail, the Board of County
Commissioners will have a difficult time going against the decision
rendered by the voters.
Further discussion was held on the need to have more financial
data. It was generally agreed that if the Board is going to
support the bond issues, it must have accurate and documented
information to present to the public.
Consensus: After further discussion, it was the consensus of the
Board for these figures to be prepared and placed on the agenda for
the meeting of March 8, 1993, with a decision being made at this
time.
o
Request for Purchase of Fax Machines Denied
Discussion was held on the purchase of fax machines for the
County Commissioners. Vice-Chairman Mathews recommended usage of
a beeper instead of fax machines which would be less costly.
County Manager O'Neal commented on the amount of time that
could be saved for Clerk to the Board, County Attorney, and County
Manager's office through usage of a fax machine and stressed the
importance of disseminating information accurately and timely..
commissioner Barone stated, for the record, she would vote for
the purchase of fax machines.
Consensus: After a lengthy discussion of fax machines, beepers,
and usage of the phone mail system, it was the consensus of the
Board to use beepers connected to the County's telemetry system for
the Chairman and Vice-Chairman and to utilize the voice mail
system, through a personal distribution system, instead of
purchasing fax machines.
ADJOURNMENT
Chairman Greer adjourned the meeting at 5:15 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
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Lucie F. Harrell
Clerk to the Board
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