1991-06-03 Regular Meeting
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-MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 3, 1991
ASSEMBLY
The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners met in Regular
Session on Monday, June 3, 1991, at 7:30 P.M. in the Council
Chambers of the City Hall, 18 North Third Street, Wilmington,
North Carolina.
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Chairman Retchin called the meeting to order and apologized
for any inconvenience experienced in moving from the Assembly
Room to the Council Chambers due to a malfunctioning air
conditioner.
INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG
Finance Director, Andrew J. Atkinson, gave the invocation.
Chairman Retchin led the audience
Allegiance to the Flag.
in the Pledge of
NON-AGENDA ITEMS
Chairman Retchin asked if anyone present would like to
present an item not listed on the agenda or comment on an item
listed on the Consent Agenda. The following items were
presented:
Request for Funding New Hanover County Veterans Service Office
Mr. Harold Davis, a member of the American Legion Post 10
representing the 14,300 veterans in New Hanover County, requested
the County to re-establish a Veterans Service Office or fund a
Veterans Service Officer to work in the local District office to
assist veterans with receiving benefits and services. He stated
ninety counties in North Carolina provide a Veterans Service
Officer; therefore, the Board should appropriate funds in the FY
1991-92 Budget to meet these needs.
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Chairman Retchin expressed appreciation to Mr. Davis for
bringing this matter to the attention of the Board and stated
this request will be reviewed. .
Concern for Protection of Eastwind Subdivision
Mr. Richard R. Williams, 5406 Eastwind Road, expressed
displeasure with the New Hanover County Zoning Ordinance and
stated building permits recently issued to Jet Partnership on two
adjoining lots in Eastwind Subdivision should not have been
issued under the definition of "Single Family Dwellings".
Presently, the Zoning Ordinance defines a "single family
dwelling" as a detached residential dwelling unit designed for
and occupied by only one family; however, Jet Partnership plans
to construct structures with three separate entrances and/or
exits, common areas, three individual compartmentalized units,
and one common driveway to be rented to college students. He
stated the integrity of the subdivision will be destroyed with
traffic, noise, litter, ~tc. and requested the Commissioners to
revoke the building permits and amend the Zoning Ordinance.
Discussion was held with reference to the covenants in the
deed restrictions, and Chairman Retchin recommended that the
citizens of Eastwind file a civil suit if this type of dwelling
violates the deed restrictions.
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Dr. Charles Lewis, a resident of 5447 Eastwind Road,
expressed concern for encroachment into this subdivision by
permitting of such a dwelling and encouraged the Commissioners to
amend the current Zoning Ordinance to protect neighborhoods from
this type of invasion.
Mr. James Le Croy, owner of lot #41, expressed concern for
drainage problems being experienced and stat~ed before approving
additional building permits, this problem snould be addressed by
the County Engineering Department.
Discussion was
Assistant County
held
Manager,
on the
Dave
dedicated retention pond.
Weaver I stated when the
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( 4QS MINUTES OF REGULAR
MEETING, JUNE 3, 1991
subdivision was plated in 1979, a retention pond was located on
the site; however, the pond was not required under the drainage
plans for subdivisions at that time.
commissioner Greer expressed concern for a building permit
being approved for this type of housing which he feels should not
be interpreted as a single family dwelling. Assistant County
Manager Weaver stated the Inspections Department issues building
permits based upon the Subdivision Ordinance as currently
written.
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Mr. Bruce Shell, a residemt of Eastwind Subdivision,
expressed concern for subdivision regulations governing
stormwater run-off and drainage and stated he has received no
assistance from the Engineering Office for enforcement of the
regulations. He stated issuance of the building permits has
clearly violated the spirit of the Zoning Ordinance; therefore,
he would urge the Commissioners to recognize that a mistake has
occurred and require the structure to be torn down.
Discussion was held on interpretation of the Subdivision
Ordinance and the request to revoke the building permits. County
Attorney Pope commented on a letter from the attorney
representing the residents of Eastw,ind Subdivision and stated
after reviewing the reason~ listed in the letter for revoking the
building permits, he could find no legal gr:)Unds for pursuing
this type of action.
After further discussion, Staff was requested to review the
current Zoning Ordinance and the permits issued in Eastwind
Subdivision with a written report prepared and forwarded to the
Commissioners, and to review the present definition of a "single
family dwelling" unit as currently written in the Zoning
Ordinance with a recommendation on whether or not this definition
should be refined.
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APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA
Commissioner Greer requested removal of Item #3 in order to
discuss the possibility of establishing an hourly rate in the
proposed contract between New Hanover County and the Southeastern
Center.
Motion: Chairman Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman
Mathews to approve the Consent Agenda with removal of Item #3 as
requested by Commissioner Greer. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
CONSENT AGENDA
Approval of Minutes
The Commissioners
Meeting ~f May 6, 1991,
approved the
as presented.
minute~;
of
the
Regular
Approval of Capital Project Ordinance and Budget Amendment
191-0256 for the Jail Expansion
The Commissioners approved the Capital Project Ordinance in
the amount of $1,350,000 and the following Budget Amendment for
the jail expansion:
#91-0256 Capital Project/Jail Expansion
Jail Expansion
Federal Grant
Installment Financing
Debit
Credit
')
$650,000
$700,000
Engineering
General Contractor
Capital Outlay - Equipment
Contingency
$ 45,000
$888,000
$352,000
$ 65,000
Purpose: To establish the project budget according to the
Capital Project Ordinance for the Jail Expansion Project.
A copy of the Capital proj ect Ordi.nance is hereby
incorporated as a part of the minutes and is ccntained in Exhibit
Book XIX, Page 8.
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 3, 1991
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Adoption of Resolution Adding Roads in
Subdivision to the State Highway System
The Commissioners adopted a resolution
Woodberry Forest Subdivision (Division File
the State Highway System.
Woodberry
Forest
adding the roads in
#652-N & 653-N) to
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XIX, Page 8.
Ratification of Seagate Volunteer Fire Department's Appointment
to the Board of Fire Commissioners
The Commissioners ratified the appointment of Mr. Michael C.
Milliken to fill the unexpired term of Harry Bennett on the Board
of Fire Commissioners. The term will expire July 1, 1992.
Approval of Budget Amendment #91-0257 for Fwlding Contribution to
Wilmington Housing Finance Development, Inc. for Payment of
County Property Taxes - Summer Oaks
The Commissioners approved the following budget amendment to
allocate funds to Wilmington Housing Finance Development, Inc.
for payment of the County's share of property taxes owed on the
Summer Oaks Property (R04814-015-001-000):
91-0257 Non-Departmenta~/Outside Agencies
Economic & Physical Development/
city of Wilmington
Debit
Credit
Non-Departmental
Contingency
$7,327
Outside Aqencies/Economic &
Physical Development
City of Wilmington
$7,327
Purpose: To budget funds
Housing Finance Development,
taxes.
for
Inc.
a contribution to Wilmington
for payment of County property
Award of Bid #9J..-0039 and Approval of Contract #91-0039-1 and
Contract #91-0039-2 for the Purchase of a Computer System for the
New Hanover County Health Department
The Commissioners adopted a resolution awarding the bid
jointly to IBM Corporation and Q.S., Incorporated, the only
responsible bidder for the purchase of a computer system for the
Health Department in the amount of $239,376 and approved separate
contracts with each vendor as follows: Contract #91-0039-1 with
Q. S., Incorporated in the amount of ~;79,905 and Contract
#91-0039-2 with IBM Corporation in the amount of $159,471. The
Chairman was authorized the execute the necessary documents.
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XIX, Page 8.
Award of Bid 191-0131 to Ester Communications, Inc. d/b/a Teleco
for Telephone System for the Senior Center
The following bids were received and the Commissioners
awarded the bid to Ester Communications, Inc. d/b/ a as Teleco,
the lowest responsible bidder, in the amount of $22,439.50. The
Chairman was authorized to execute the necessary documents.
Ester Communications, Inc. d/b/a/ Teleco
Carolina Telephone & Telegraph Company
Commercial Community Systems of
Wilmington, Inc. T/A
Sound & Telephone Systems
Southern Bell - Proposal #1
Southern Bell - Proposal #2
$22,439.50
$25,722.00
$29,000.00
$29,802.77
$32,776.29
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XIX, Page 8.
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NINU'rES OF REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 3, 1991
Approval of Budget Amendment #91-0255 Department of Social
services
The commissipners approved the following Budget Amendment:
#91-0255 Social Services/Foster Care/Child Day Care
Debit
Credit
social Services/Foster Care
AFDC Foster Care
$75,405
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social Services/Day Care
Day Care
$15,000
Social Services/Foster Care
IV-E (AFDC) Foster Care
$90,405
Purpose: To budget additional State alloca-tion for the Foster
Care Program. Due to additional State fundin~ being received for
day care, county funds budgeted are not needed and are being
transferred to the Foster Care Program.
Approval of Budget Amendment #91-0252 to Budget various Health
Department Revenues
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
#91-0252 Health Departmept/Various
Debit
Credit
Health/Family Planning
Family Planning Grant
$ 545
Departmental Supplies
$ 545
Health/Cancer
Contribution
$2,145
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Contracted Services
$2,145
Health/Neurology
Neurology
$ 809
Contracted Services
$ 809
Purpose: To budget the following:
1. A $2,145 contribution to the Cancer Program for
additional expenses related to the clinic scre-
ening expenses.
2. Additional State revenue in the amount of $545
for clinic supplies and education materials in
the Family Planning Program.
3. Additional State revenue in the amount of $809
for contracted services in the Neurology
Program.
Approval of Budget Amendment #91-0251 - Fire Service District/
Fire Departments
The Commissioners approved the followinq Budget Amendment:
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91-0251 Fire Service District/Fire Departmen1:s
Debi-t
Credit
Fire Service District/
Fire Departments
Appropriated Fund Balance
$91,819
Wrightsboro Vol. Fire Dept.
Federal Point Vol. Fire Dept.
Castle Hayne Vol. Fire Dept.
Ogden Vol. Fire Dept.
North Wilmington Vol. Fire Dept.
$19,050
$18,635
$17,781
$18,394
$17,959
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 3, 1991
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Purpose: To appropriate funds from the Fire District I s fund
balance to purchase standby emergency generators for the
following volunteer fire departments: Wrightsboro, Federal
Point, Castle Hayne, Ogden, and North Wilmington as approved by
the Board of Fire Commissioners on March 13, 1991.
Acceptance of FAA Grant Offer for Phase II Airport Improvement
Program Project #3-37-0084-12 and Approval of Amendment #1 for
the Phase I Grant Airport Improvement Project #3-37-0084-11
The Commissioners accepted the FAA grant offer for the Phase
II Airport Improvement Program Project #3-37-0084-12 in the
amount of $1,917,287 with the cond~tions as stipulated by FAA in
the grant agreement and approved Amendment #1 for the Phase I
Grant Airport Improvement Project #3-37-0084-11 to add a Letter
of Credit to the provisions of the grant to insure adequate cash
flow~ The Chairman was authorized to execute the necessary
documents.
Approval of Proposed Revisions to the
Receivable Write-off Procedures
The Commissioners approved revisions
Accounts Receivable Write-off Procedures as
Director of Finance.
Existing Accounts
to the existing
recommended by the
A copy of the revisions is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XIX, Page 8.
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Adoption of Resolution Accepting an Offer to Purchase Surplus
Real Property OWned Jointly by New Hanover COllilty and the City of
Wilmington - 1306 Castle street
The Commissioners adopted a resolution accepting the
following offer to purchase surplus real property owned jointly
by the County and City with ad valorem tax values as of 1989
totaling $5,453. The offer to purchase has been duly advertised
for upset bid.
Offeror:
Address:
Tax Map. No:
Tax Value:
Amount of Offer:
James B. and Patsy A. steven
1306 Castle street (vacant lot)
054-10-009-022.000
$5,453
$4,530
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XIX, Page 8.
APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEM #3 WITH AN AMENDMENT TO THE
CONTRACT BETWEEN NEW HANOVER COUNTY AND THE SOUTHEASTERN CENTER
FOR MENTAL HEALTH, DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES & SUBSTANCE ABUSE
SERVICES
Commissioner Greer recommended establishing an hourly rate
with a not to exceed figure of $27,116 in the contract with the
Southeastern Center for the services to be n~ndered to inmates
housed in the County Jail.
Motion: After discussion, Commissioner Greer MOVED, SECONDED by
Vice-Chairman Mathews to approve the proposed contract based on
an hourly rate with a cap not to exceed $27,116 for services
rendered by the Southeastern Center to inmates housed in the
County Jail. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UlTANIMOUSLY.
ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION FOR PERFORMING A HEWLET'I' r S CREEK WATERSHED
, LAND USE STUDY
Ms. Besty W. Talley, representing the Hewlett's Creek
Watershed Association, commented on the importance of protecting
Hewlett's Creek and expressed concern for current federal, state,
and local regulations not being sufficient to protect this
watershed. Concern was also expressed for the contaminated mud
flowing into the upper part of the creek from the pine Valley
Golf Course and Holly Tree road work as well as increasing
development of waterfront lots and tracts- being subdivided, such
as the Cove Point Subdivision where the developer has applied for
a 479 ft. pier with a 120 ft. floating dock projecting 10 feet
into a 30 ft. channel, which greatly impacts upon the creek and
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 3, 1991
seriously impairs navigation in this part of the channel. rhe
Commissioners were requested to perform a Hewlett's Creek
Watershed Land study to ensure protection of this primary nursery
area.
Motion: After discussion of the need to protect this primary
nursery area in New Hanover County, Commiss ioner Sutton MOVED,
SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Mathews to adopt a resolution directing
the New Hanover County Planning Department to conduct a Hewlett's
Creek Watershed Land Use Study which will include review of the
County's Land Use Plan and Policies. Upon vote, the MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
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A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XIX, Page 8.
commissioner Sutton expressed concern for zoning regulations
governing community boating facilities and private piers and
recommended a review of the existing ordinance.
Motion: After further discussion, Chairman Retchin MOVED,
SECONDED by Commissioner Sutton to instruct the Planning
Commission to review the present Zoning Ordinance and prepare a
recommendation to determine if community piE!rS in R-20 zoning
areas should be placed in the special use category and/or any
other changes that would better control private boating
facilities throughout the County. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
PRESENTATION OF PAY AND CLASSIFICATION STUDY
Ms. Carolyn Long, a partner of Long & Associates, presented
an overview of the methodology utilized in preparing the Pay and
Classification Plan for New Hanover County. The following items
were presented:
Phase I: Compensation Methodoloqy
-Initiated Policy Issue Discussion
-Conducted Initial Management Meetings
-Identified compensation Philosophy
-Developed Detailed Work Plan
-Identified Compensation Committee
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Phase II: Job Analysis and Training
-Conducted Job Analysis through Point Factor System
-Workshop Setting Developed Factor Points for Bench-
mark positions
-Modified and Weighted "a priori" system
-Computer Modeled Impact of Changes through E-Z PACT
-Provided Manuals and Models for Each Area
-On-site Training in the Use of E-Z PACK and E-Z PAY
-Developed Survey and Benefits Document
Phase III: Validation of Compensation Results
-Integrated of Factor Points with Labor Market Survey
using E-Z PACT
-Developed Pay Line for Balance of positions Using E-Z
PACT
-Developed Draft Report, Class Specifications with FLSA
status, etc.
-Report and Class Specification Reviewed by Department
Heads and Key Staff
-Responded to Review
-Developed Final Report
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Phase IV: Additional Assistance
-E-Z PACT and E-Z PAY Software
-customized Factor Manual, Interview Guide, Guidecharts,
Job Content Questionnaire, Complete Documentation for
E-Z PACT
-E-Z PACT and E-Z PAY installed on your PC compatible
equ~pment
-Follow-up Technical Assistance for One Year at no
Additional charge
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 3, 1991
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A lengthy discus,sion was held on the need to upgrade the
present pay plan, particularly many of the entry levels. Further
discussion was held on the cost for implementation of the plan
with the following methods presented:
Method #1: Place employees in their new range at their current
dollar amount. For those below the Hiring Range, increase them
to the Hiring Range. Estimated cost to implement this option
effective January, 1992 would be $685,800.
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Method #2: This option would utilize the same rules as exist in
Method #1, except that regular emp+oyees below the Hiring Range,
would be moved to the Minimum Salary Rate. Probationary
employees would be placed at the Hiring Rate. The estimated cost
to implement this option effective January, 1992 would be
$807,611.
Method #3: This option would utilize the same rules as exist in
Method #1, except that regular employees would have their salqry
on the new salary schedule adjusted, by a percentage, based on
the amount of difference there is between the starting salary of
their current salary range, and the starting salary of their
assigned salary range on the new salary schedule. Listed below
are the rates for determining the amount of increase:
0-5%
5-10%
11-15%
16-20%
21-25%
No Change
2.5%
3.5%
4.5%
5.5%
Estimated cost to implement this option effective
January, 1992 would be $1,140,428.
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After further discussion, Ms. Long expressed appreciation to
the Commissioners for authorizing the study and complimented the
County staff and employees for working so cooperatively with Long
& Associates in developing the proposed plan.
Chairman Retchin, on behalf of the Board, expressed
appreciation to Long & Associates for the report on the proposed
Pay and Classification Plan.
PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER A REQUEST TO RENAME RAILROAD ROAD (SR
1351) TO KIRKLAND ROAD; NAME TWO PRIVATE ACCESS EASEMENTS,
MCINTYRE TRAIL AND FOY I S TRAIL; AND ASSIGN HOUSE NUMBERS LOCATED
IN HARNETT TOWNSHIP IN NORTHEASTERN NEW HANOVER COUNTY (SN-GO)
Chairman Retchin opened the Public Hearing.
Planning Director, Dexter Hayes, presented background
information on the proposed road names and stated the property
owners on each road being named or renamed were polled and given
an opportunity to select an unduplicated name. After reviewing
the survey, the property owners selected the names of McIntyre
~rail and Foy's Trail for the two private access easements, and
recommended renaming Railroad Road (SR 1351) to Kirkland Road.
He emphasized the importance of avoiding road name duplications
and the assignment of house numbers in order to allow emergency
personnel to promptly respond to calls as well as provide for
better delivery of county services.
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Chairman Retchin asked if anyone present would like to speak
in favor of or in opposition to the proposed road renaming and
road names. The following persons commented:
Reverend David Fay expressed concern for the name of
Kirkland Road since the name Kirkland represents a historic
communi ty further down the highway. He also expressed concern
for McIntyre Road which is not compatible with the neighborhood.
Ms. Eugene Hansley, a property owner, expressed opposition
to the name of Kirkland Road and recommended st. Stephens Road,
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 3, 1991
which in his opinion, is more compatible with the st. Stephens
AME Church and neighborhood.
Ms. Brenda Hewett, representing the 911 Center at the
Sheriff's Department, expressed concern for a duplication of road
names and stated a road is presently named st. Stephens which
could create difficulty in emergency responses.
Ms. Joan Johnson,
opposed renaming the
Stephens Church Road.
a property on Railroad Road, strongly
road to Kirkland Road and recommended
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Ms. Ismaila Abdul-Ghani, a resident of the area, expressed
concern for Foy's Road showing ownership and recommended the road
be named Foys Road.
Chairman Retchin closed the Public Hearing.
Motion: After discussion of the survey, Vice-Chairman Mathews
MOVED to rename Railroad Road (SR 1351) to Kirkland Road. The
MOTION FAILED DUE TO NOT RECEIVING A SECOND.
Motion: After further discussion, Commissioner Greer MOVED,
SECONDED BY CommissIoner sutton to rename Railroad Road (SR 1351)
to Stephens Church Road contingent upon confirmation by the N. C.
Department of Transportation and to reassign house numbers as
recommended by the Planning staff. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
AS FOLLOWS:
Voting Aye: Commissioner Barfield
Commissioner Greer
Commissioner Sutton
Chairman Retchin
Voting Nay: Commissioner Mathews
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Motion: After discussion of Foy' s Road reflecting ownership,
Commissioner Greer MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Sutton to name
the private access easement commencing at its intersection with
Stephens Church Road/west side of st. Stephen's AME Church to
McIntyre Trail; to name the private easement 300 feet southwest
of the Market street/Creekwood Road intersection to Foys Trail
and to approve the assignment of house numbers as recommended by
the Planning staff. Upon vote, the MOTION CAHRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Copies of the orders are hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and are contained in Exhibit Book XIX, Page 8.
ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION OF INTENT TO SCHEDULE A PUBLIC HEARING ON
JULY 1,-1991, TO CONSIDER CLOSING AN UNNAMED W)AD LOCATED ON THE
EAST SIDE OF CASTLE HAYNE ROAD, 200 F:EET SOUTH OF ITS
INTERSECTION WITH GORDON ROAD, CAPE FEAR TOWN~;HIP (SC-53,7/91)
Motion: commissioner Sutton MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner
Barfield to adopt the Resolution of Intent to schedule a Public
Hearing on July 1, 1991, at 7:30 P.M. in the Assembly Room of the
New Hanover County Courthouse to consider closing an unnamed road
located on the east side of Castle Hayne Road, 200 feet south of
its intersection with Gordon Road in Cape Fea.r Township. Upon
vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
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A copy of the Resolution of Intent lS hereby incorporated as
a part of the minutes and is contained In Exhibit Book XIX, Page
8.
RECOGNITION OF FINANCE DIRECTOR FOR RECEIVING A CERTIFICATE OF
ACHIEVEMENT FOR EXCELLENCE IN FINANCIAL REPOR'I'ING
Chairman Retchin, on behalf of the Board, recognized Finance
Director, Andrew J. Atkinson, for receiving a Certificate of
Achievement for Excellence in Financial Repor-c.ing for FY 1990.
He congratulated Director Atkinson for receiving this certificate
for the past 10 years and requested a round of applause for this
outstanding accomplishment.
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 3, 1991
500
PRESENTATION OF CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION FOR PARTICIPATION IN
THE COMMUNITY RATING SYSTEM
Chairman Retchin, on behalf of the Board, recognized the
following departments for receiving a "Certificate of
Recogni tion" as a participant in the Community Rating System
established by the Federal Emergency Management Agency:
Planning Department
Inspections Department
Engineering Department
Vector Control Division of the Health Dept.
Department of Eme~gency Management
New Hanover County Library
Assistant County Manager, Dave Weaver, stated participating
in this system will result in an improved floodplain management
program and reduce floodplain insurance premiums for County
residents. He accepted the certificate and stated it was a
uni ted effort among the departments that allowed the County to
receive this recognition. ~
BREAK
Chairman Retchin called for a break from 9:20 P.M. until
9:40 P.M.
PRESENTATION OF THE COUNTY MANl\GEH.'S FY 1991-92 RECOMMENDED
BUDGET !
County Manager O'Neal presented the recommended FY 1991-92
Budget totaling $76.8 million with a tax rate of 61 cents. The
budget includes a 13.2% increase in the County's contribution to
schools, rebuilding the fund balance by $700,000 with no
appropriation utilized to balance the proposed budget; a 4% cost
of living adjustment for all County employees; implementation of
the Pay & Classification Plan effective January, 1992; approval
of 13 new positions; a funding appropriation of $76,700 in
computer equipment to enhance the MAPS program; increase of
county funding to the Health Department by 8%; increase of county
funding to the Department of Social Services by 8%; increase of
county funding for the Department of Aging by 14%; increase of
county funding to the Southeastern Center by 10%; and an overall
recommendation that all outside agencies be funded in the same
amount as last year. Under capital projects, $715,000 is
budgeted to cover installment payments for the expansion of the
County jail. Funding is also included in the amount of $175,000
to continue the cleanup of the burn pit and $150,000 for
development of the Downtown Park.
County Manager O'Neal stated the revenue forecasting process
was particularly diff icul t due to the uncertainty of the State
reimbursements to the County as well as to the uncertainty in
State funding for human service programs and schools. An effort
was made to review the fees that the County charges for services
in order to allow the individuals receiving the benefits to pay
for those services whenever practical. An increase in inspection
fees, health fees, and library fines is included in the
recommended 'budget.
The tipping fee has been increased to $60jton to cover the
costs of operating the landfill, waste-to-Energy Facility,
improve the recycling program, meet the increased environmental
regulations, and pay debt service. The name of the Resource
Recovery Fund has been changed to the Environmental Management
Fund to more accurately reflect the activities of the fund. The
Waste-to-Energy Facility is a more accurate name for what has
been historically referred to as the Steam Plant.
A tax rate of 2 cents is recommended for the Fire Service
District, which will allow for the continued fire protection in
the unincorporated portion of the County as well as allow the
volunteer fire departments to plan for long term fire protection
needs. It is recommended that $150,000 from the Fire Service
District Tax be used to fund the Fire Inspection Division.
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 3, 1991
County Manager O'Neal stated when reviewing and meeting with
County department heads, departmental requests from the general
fund were reduced by $4,907,839 from $81,388,952 to $76,481,113.
He expressed appreciation to staff for their cooperation in
presenting reduced budget requests and stressed the importance of
remaining financially solvent and stable in order to continue to
provide the level of services as currently provided. Emphasis
was placed on rebuilding the fund balance in order to avoid
future cash flow problems as being incurred by the state of North
Carolina.
The following presentations w~re presented by staff on the
proposed FY 1991-92 Budget:
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1. Requests not Recommended
2. Personnel Cost & Associated Matters
3. Presentation of Other Funds
4. Fund Balance
A lengthy discussion wcl's held on the importance of
rebuilding the fund balance in order to maintain the County IS
present bond rating. Further discussion was held on the $150,000
allocated for the Downtown Park as well as the 4% cost of living
increase and implementation of the Pay and Classification Plan.
After further discussion, staff was requested to prepare the
following items for the Budget Hearings to be held on June 5 & 6,
1991: (1) Cost for implementing the Pay and Classification Plan
without the 4% cost of living increase; (2) cost to absorb the
employees I increase of premiums for Blue Cross jBlue Shield; (3)
cost for implementing the Pay and Classification Plan effective
the last quar:.ter of the fiscal year; and (4) the amount of
funding over and above mandated programs for the schools.
Chairman Retchin stated Budget Hearings will be held on June
5 & 6, 1991, to hear outside agencies and discuss all items of
concern.
()
AUTHORIZATION TO SUBMIT A )GRANT PROPOSAL TO THE OFFICE OF WASTE
REDUCTION FOR PILOT BAG-BASED CO-COLLECTION PR(~RAM
Director of Environmental Management, Ray Church, stated the
N. C. Office of Waste Reduction is soliciting demonstration
projects to receive grants funded from the Solid Waste Management
Trust Fund. Project applicants may request up to $25,000 from
the trust fund with exceptional proj ects receiving grants of
$25,000 or more. He requested authorization to submit a grant
proposal for the pilot demonstration of a bag-based co-collection
program for New Hanover County. If grant funds are awarded, the
money would be budgeted for equipment lease and operation costs.
Motion: After discussion, Chairman Retchin NOVED, SECONDED by
'Commissioner Greer to authorize staff to submit a grant proposal
to the Office of Waste Reduction for the pilot bag-based
co-collection program as recommended by the Director of
Environmental Management. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
MEETING CONVENED FROM REGULAR SESSION TO HOLD A REGULAR MEETING
OF THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY WATER & SEWER DISTRICT
Chairman Retchin convened from Regular Session to hold a
meeting of the New Hanover County Water & Sewer District from
11:30 o'clock P.M. until 11:35 o'clock P.M.
()
APPROVAL FOR ESTABLISHMENT OF A STRATEGIC PLNlNING TASK FORCE
Assistant County Manager, Dave Weaver, presented the
following recommendations for establishing a strategic Planning
Task Force to develop a plan and funding sourCE for expanding the
county sewer system.
,
1. Develop a plan to govern the timing and locations of the
continued expansion of the sewer system. This plan
should consider such factors as development needs,
availability of revenues, and land-use planning.
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 3, 1991
602...
..,
d
2 .
Establish revdnue
expansion of the
revenue sources
characteristics:
sources to fund the
sewer system. Selection
should balance the
continued
of these
following
-Generation of revenue amounts adequate to finance
the expansion of the sewer system in a timely
manner consistent with the first mission;
.
-Creation of minimum impact to the County's economy;
-Generation of revenu~s from those sectors of the
County's economy that will gain the greatest direct
benefit from expansion of the County's sewer system;
-Minimization of
population least
benefit.
the burden on those groups of the
able to payor most unlikely to
The County Task Force should be.composed of representatives
from the following groups:
-Board of County Commissioners
-Wilmington Board of Realtors
-Wilmington-Cape Fear Homebuilders Association
-League of Women Voters (local chapter)
-American Society of civil Engineers (local chapter)
-Wilmington Excellence
-Wilmington Industrial Development Corporation
.
commissioner Barfield expressed concern for establishing a
Task Force to identify sources of revenue when the land transfer
tax and/or increasing the property tax have been identified as
revenue sources, but have not been supported or approved by the
Board of County Commissioners.
Chairman Retchin stated at the Special Meeting with the
realtors and home builders, the persons present were opposed to
implementing a land transfer tax; however, they did feel the
sewer system should be completed, therefore, appointing
representatives from these groups could provide a funding
mechanism that would be acceptable to all persons involved.
commissioner Greer expressed concern for moving forward with
this proj ect until funds are available, particularly when the
County is experiencing a recession and both the state and local
governments are struggling to maintain the level of services
being provided.
Motion: After further discussion, Chairman Retchin MOVED,
SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Mathews to establish the Task Force as
recommended with the addition of two (2) at-large members. Upon
vote, the CARRIED AS FOLLOWS:
Voting Aye: Commissioner Sutton
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Chairman Retchin
.
voting Nay: Commissioner Barfleld
Commissioner Greer
COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS
Reappointment of. Allen Cobb to Serve on the ABC Board and
Appointment of Chairman for the Ensuing Year
Motion: After discussion, Commissioner Sutton MOVED, SECONDED by
Vice-Chairman Mathews to reappoint Allen Cobb to serve a 3-year
term on the ABC Board to expire June 30, 1991, and to C\ppoint
Allen Cobb as Chairman of the ABC Board for the next fiscal year.
Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
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503'
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, JUNE 3, 1991
Appointment of Denise A. Lascar and Dr. Daniel Y. Patterson to
Serve on the Southeastern Board of Mental:- Health, Developmental
Disabilities and Transfer of Category for Reverend James Gray
Motion: Commissioner Barfield MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman
Mathews to transfer Reverend James Gray from Category 4 to
Category 3 (as a representative of the religious community) and
to appoint Denise A. Lascar to fill the unexpired term in
Category 4 (a representative from a group working with the
mentally ill) with an expiration date of June 31, 1992.
()
Motion: After further discuss~on, Chairman Retchin MOVED,
SECONDED by Commissioner Sutton to establish Category 2 (licensed
doctor of psychiatry) and appoint Dr. Daniel Young Patterson to
serve a 4-year term expiring May 20, 1995. Upon vote, the MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOqSLY.
Discussion of Representative on the "Keep America Beautiful"
Program Board of Directors
After discussion, it was generally agreed that Commissioner
Greer had been appointed to serve on this Board; however, he was
not sure that this action had occurred. The Clerk was requested
to check the official record and report to Commissioner Greer.
Discussion of the Need for a County Commissioner to Serve on the
Board of Directors of the Department of Social Services
commissioner Barfield commented on being requested to apply
to serve on the Board of Directors of the Department of Social
Services as an appointee by that Board, and stated for some
unknown reason things did not work out; however, he strongly
feels that a Commissioner should be appointed to serve on the DSS
Board.
ADDITIONAL ITEMS - COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Appointment of Commissioner Jonathan Barfield, Sr. as the Voting ()
Delegate to the Annual Conference of the National Association of
Counties
Motion: Vice-Chairman Mathews MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner
Sutton to appoint Commis!sioner Barfield to serve as the Voting
Delegate to the Annual Conference of the National Association of
Counties on July 13-17, 1991, in Salt LaJ<.e City, utah. Upon
vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Authorization to Establish 30-Minute Time Limit on Visitors
Parking Spaces in the County Administr~tion Parking Lot
Motion: After discussion of the need to provide parking space
for as many visitors as possible, Vice-Chairman Mathews MOVED,
SECO~DED by Chairman Retchin to establish a :lO-minute time limit
on visitors parking spaces in the County Administration Building
parking lot. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
ADDITIONAL ITEMS ~ COUNTY MANAGER
Approval of an Amendment to the Contract ,vi th Tax Management
Associates, Inc.
County Manager O'Neal stated due to the recent ruling with
reference to being paid on a contingency percentage, the Legal (\
Department has rewritten the contract with Tax Management ~)
Associates, Inc. on a hourly basis which will be more acceptable
to the N. C. Property Tax Division.
Motion: After discussion, commissioner Sutton MOVED, SECONDED by
Vice-Chairman Mathews to approve an amendment to the contract
with Tax Management Associates, Inc. as recommended by the County
Manager. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANII10USLY.
ADJOURNMENT
Motion: Commissioner Barfield MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman
Mathews to adjourn. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
.
.
.
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETIN4, JUNE 3, 1991
~
504
Chairman Retchin adjourned the meeting at 12:10 o'clock A.M.
~~ec~l~ su~~itted,
"-/~ F. ~~
Clerk to the Board
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