1991-09-16 Regular Meeting
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, SEPTEMBER 16, 1991
Page '621
ASSEMBLY
The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners met in Regular
Session on Monday, September 16, 1991, at 9:00 o'clock A.M. in
the Assembly Room of the New Hanover Courthouse, 24 North Third
Street, Wilmington, North Carolina.
.
Members present were: Commissioners Jonathan Barfield, Sr.;
Robert G. Greer; William H. Sutton; Vice-Chairman E. L. Mathews,
Jr.; Chairman Fred Retchin; County Manager, Allen O'Neal;
Assistant County Attorney, Wanda M. Copley; and Clerk to the
Board, Lucie F. Harrell.
Chairman Retchin called the meeting to order and welcomed
all persons present.
INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
County Manager, Allen O'Neal, gave the invocation.
Chairman Retchin led the audience in the Pledge of
Allegiance to the Flag.
NON-AGENDA ITEMS
Chairman Retchin asked if anyone present would like to
present an item not listed on the Regular Agenda or speak on an
item listed on the Consent Agenda.
No items or comments were received.
APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA
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Discussion of Consent Agenda Item #9 - New Hanover County Board
of Education 1991-92 Budget Resolution
Chairman Retchin stated Dr. Tom McNeel, Superintendent of
Schools, is present and will be glad to answer any questions
pertaining to the 1991-92 Board of Education Budget Resolution.
Discussion was held on fringe benefits. Commissioner Sutton
commented on fringe benefits and inquired as to what is covered
under this item?
Dr. McNeel stated the fringe benefits as defined in the
budget resolution, include social security, teachers' retirement,
and supplemental salaries for instructional and classified staff.
Commissioner Sutton inquired as to what amount of the
$4,090,000 represents supplemental salaries over and above the
state wage? Dr. McNeel stated one million dollars is
appropriated for instructional and administrative staff.
Benefits for Certified staff varies depending upon college
degrees, experience, and certifications with an average amount of
$700 - $1,800 per person.
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Further discussion was held on the North Carolina General
Statutes and the fact that the Board of Equcation does not have
to present the Budget Resolution to the Board of County
Commissioners for acceptance; however, Dr. McNeel emphasized the
importance of keeping the Commissioners informed and stated he
has no problem with the review process.
Chairman Retchin recommended when approving the Consent
Agenda Item for the School Budget Resolution, action should be
recorded as receiving an informational report.
Discussion of Consent Agenda Item #12 - Contract #92-0060 for
Purchase of Bulldozer and Sale of Old Bulldozer as Trade-in -
New Hanover County Landfill
Commissioner Greer requested an explanation of the repair
and maintenance cost guarantee on the purchase of the equipment?
Director of Environmental Management, Ray Church, stated the
County requested a total cost method bid for purchase of the
bulldozer with a guarantee that the County will not exceed
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, SEPTEMBER 16, 1.991
Page 622
$77,200 for repair and maintenance of the equipment over a 5-year
period. Any costs above this figure annually will be absorbed by
the vendor.
commissioner Greer requested that the revised resolution be
adopted showing the correct amount of the bid instead of the
resolution presented in the agenda packet.
Correction to Consent Agenda Item #1 - Minutes of September 3,
1991
Chairman Retchin requested the Clerk to add the word
"additional" in the last sentence of Paragraph 1 under approval
of the lease agreement with Motorola and to correct the word,
band to ban, under Item 3 on Page 7 of the minutes of September
3, 1991.
()
Motion: After further discussion, Chairman Retchin MOVED,
SECONDED by Commissioner Greer to approve the Consent Agenda as
amended. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA
Approval of Minutes
The Commissioners approved
presented with the corrections to
1991, as requested by the Chairman:
the following minutes
the minutes of September
as
3,
Work Session
Special Meeting
Regular Meeting
August 19, 1991
August 26, 1991
September 3, 1991
Approval of Budget Amendment #92-0042 - Meter Readers - Water and
Sewer Fund
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
()
92-0042 Water and Sewer Fund
Debit
credit
Water & Sewer Operatinq Fund
Sale of Fixed Assets
$4,800
Water & Sewer Finance
Capital Outlay - Equipment
$4,800
Purpose: To budget revenue received from the trade-in of
equipment for the purchase of new meter readers.
Authorization to Exceed the Energy Conservation Housing
Rehabilitation Program Grant Limit - Planning Department
The Commissioners authorized the Planning Department to
exceed the Energy Conservation Housing Rehabilitation Program
grant limit by $2,057 and $1,862 for two households occupied by
elderly persons in the Seabreeze Community. The additional funds
will be used to bring the dwellings into compliance with the
North Carolina Building Code.
Adoption of Resolution Allowing New Hanover County to Remain a
Member of the Cape Fear Service Delivery Area Job Training
Consortium
The Commissioners adopted a resolution allowing New Hanover
County to remain a member of the Cape Fear Service Delivery Area
Job Training Consortium with the Cape Fear Council of Governments
serving as the grant recipient and administrative entity.
()
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XIX, Page 17.
Acceptance of Tax Collection Reports
The Commissioners accepted the following Tax Collection
Reports through August 31, 1991, as submitted by the Collector of
Revenue:
New Hanover County Tax Collections
New Hanover County Fire District Tax Collections
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, SEPTEMBER 16, 1991
Page 623
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Copies of the reports are hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and are contained in Exhibit Book XIX, Page 17.
Release of Values - Tax Department
The Commissioners released the following penalties as the
taxpayer listed the incorrect vehicle; was sick or there was a
death in the family during the listing period; the taxpayer was
deployed to Saudi Arabia; or the taxpayer has certif ied the
listing form was mailed during the listing period:
Amick, Carol M.
Cales, Richard Kenneth
Connolly, Maura K.
Cozart, Gretchen J.
Daoud, Kamal Patricia
Delta Maintenance Company
Foster, Gene Gretchen Cozart
Kelly, William Jasper Violet
McLean, David Alexander III
Mordy, Margaret
Nigro, Magdalena
O'Keefe, Paul J. & Rita G.
Peterson, Joseph P.
- Richards, Clyde I. & Laverne
Sarda, Peter J. & Patricia T.
Saucier, Ronald E.
Smith, Irving L., Jr. & Linda A.
Smith, James E.
Sorg, Michael C. & Deborah S.
Stallings, Patricia K, Etal.
Tilghman, Edward R. & Catherine
Ullrich, Reginald Thomas
$ 4.25
$ 2.00
$ 13.68
$ 6.44
$ 14.38
$ 46.37
$ 6.44
$ 4.93
$ 3.17
$ 7.28
$ 3.17
$ 30.79
$ 7.36
$ 4.16
$ 2.82
$204.50
$ 4.85
$ 8.23
$ 2.34
$ 2.82
$ 3.18
$ 6.62
The Commissioners granted the following Senior
Citizen/Disability Exclusions as the taxpayers submitted late
applications. Letters explaining the late filing are available
in the office of the Collector of Revenue:
Darden, Ethel H.
David, Rebecca Herring, Etal.
Gainey, Russell D. & Mary H.
Grimsley, Carrie D.
Horne, Erna Anna
Pettiford, Corine V.
Whitfield, Mary L.
$12,000
$12,000
$12,000
$12,000
$12,000
$12,000
$12,000
The Commissioners approved the following value adjustments
as recommended by the Collector of Revenue based upon conditions
brought to the attention of the Tax Department:
Leonard, Ernest L.
Lloyd~ Milby William
Purifoy, Sanford & Ada Lou C.
Smith, Victoria M.
$ 1,064
$ 5,737
$ 2,100
$ 2,450
The Commissioners released the following certification
penalty due to the taxpayer's prior listing record:
Howard, Arthur Riley
$
200
Approval of Delinquent Tax Exemption Request for Katie B. Hines
Senior Center
The Commissioners approved the delinquent exemption request
as provided by NCGS 105-282.1 for the Katie B. Hines Senior
Center regarding a 1986 Ford Van (VIN #1FBHS3L6GHB46829) as
recommended by the Tax Administrator. The Secretary did not
realize an application was required until time to renew the
license in 1991.
Report on New Hanover County Board of Education 1991-92 Budget
Resolution
The Commissioners were presented a report on the New Hanover
County Board of Education 1991-92 Budget Resolution. The
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, SEPTEMBER 16, 1991
Page, 624
resolution was discussed and accepted by the Commissioners as an
informational report.
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XIX, Page 17.
Adoption of Resolution Awarding Bids to Provide Furnishings for
the Senior Center
The Commissioners adopted resolutions awarding bids to the
following lowest responsible bidders for furnishings for the
Senior Center:
Group 1 - Dininq Room and Game Room
(Contract #92-0043-1)
Bids Received:
Med-Care
Carolina Office & Equipment Company
The Office Showcase
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$15,486.00
$16,829.66
$18,156.80
Bid awarded to Med-Care of Hickory, North Carolina, in the
amount of $15,486.00.
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XIX, Page 17.
Group 2 - Conference Room
(Contract #92-0043-2)
Bids Received:
Med-Care
Carolina Office & Equipment Company
The Office Showcase
$1,950.00*
$9,381. 00**
$9,778.78
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* Did not bid on all items in grouping.
** Conference chairs submitted were not equivalent to the
chair specified.
Group 5 - Reception/Lobbv Office and Health/Intake
(Contract #92-0043-2)
Bids Received:
Med-Care
The Office Showcase
Carolina Office & Equipment Company
* Did not bid on all items in grouping.
$12,884.00*
$31,584.93
$37,039.35
Bids awarded for Group 2 and Group 5 to The Office Show-
case in the amount of $41,363.71 (Group 2 - $9,778.78
and Group 5 - $31,584.93).
copies of the resolutions are hereby incorporated as a part
of the minutes and are contained in Exhibit Book XIX, Page 17.
Group 3 - Lounqe
(contract #92-0043-3)
Bids Received:
Carolina Office & Equipment Company
Interior Management, Inc.
The Office Showcase
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$10,404.03
$11,378.00
$11,616.51
Group 4 - Classroom/Craft & Multipurpose Room
(Contract #92-0043-3)
Bids Received:
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, SEPTEMBER 16, 1991
Page 625
Carolina Office & Equipment Company
The Office Showcase
Med-Care
$32,468.25
$34,633.79
$43,601. 75
Bids awarded for Group 3 and Group 4 to Carolina Office and
Equipment Company in the amount of $42,872.28 (Group 3-
$10,404.03 and Group 4 - $32,468.25).
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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 17.
Group 6 - Window Treatments
(Contract #92-0043-4)
Bids Received:
vertical Blinds and More
The Office Showcase
The Dize Company
The Blind spot, Inc.
Drapery World Interiors
LL & L Designs
$ 2,351.08
$ 2,719.02
$ 2,739.00
$ 3,231.71
$ 3,399.82
$13,363.00
Bid awarded for Group 6 to vertical Blinds and More in the
amount of $2,351.08.
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XIX, Page 17.
Award of Joint Bid for the Public Library Automation System
After advertising bids, the Finance Department received one
joint bid as follows:
Joint Bid Received:
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IBM Corporation
VTLS, Inc.
TOTAL
$169,128.06
79,350.00
$248,478.06
After allowing for additions or deletions of quantities at
the unit price quoted in the bid proposal the requested award
amount has been revised as follows:
Revised Bid:
IBM Corporation
VTLS, Inc.
TOTAL
$138,199.54
117,135.00
$255,334.54
The Commissioners
Corporation and VTLS,
authorization for the
contracts:
awarded
Inc. in
Chairman
the revised joint bid to IBM
the amount $255,334.54 with
to execute the following
Contract #91-0039 an existing contract with IBM will
be utilized to cover the delivery and installation of
IBM Hardware and System Software in the amount of
$138,199.54.
.
Contract #92-0044 with VTLS for licensing, delivery,
installation, performance testing, and personnel
training for the Application Software in the amount
of $117,135.00.
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XIX, Page 17.
Adoption of Resolution and Approval of Contract #92-0060 for the
Purchase of Bulldozer for the Landfill and Sale of Old Bulldozer
as Trade-In to Gregory Poole Equipment Company
Since the bid opening, Fiat Allis has experienced complete
engine failure and Gregory Poole Equipment Company has amended
their trade-in allowance from $14,089.00 to $7,000.00. The bid
package states that goods listed for the trade-in will be
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, SEPTEMBER 16, 1991
Page .626 ''''
released to the successful bidder in the same condition as when
examined, except for normal wear and tear; therefore, the total
cost method as originally bid has been amended as follows:
Total Cost Method as Oriqinally Bid - Greqory Pool Equipment
Company
$246,469.50
14,089.00
$232,380.50
77,200.00
51.125.00
$258,455.50
Gross Price
Trade-In
Net Cost
Repair and Maintenance Cost Guarantee
Buy Back Price
TOTAL COST
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Amended Total Cost Method with Trade-In Amount - Greqorv Pool
Equipment Company
$246,469.50
7,000.00
$239,469.50
77,200.00
51.125.00
$265,544.50
Gross Price
Trade-In
Net Cost
Repair and Maintenance Cost Guarantee
Buy Back Price
TOTAL COST
The Commissioners adopted a resolution awarding
bid to Gregory Pool Equipment Company in the
$265,544.50 with authorization for the Chairman to
contract documents.
the revised
amount of
execute the
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XIX, Page 17.
Approval for Change of Part-time Public Health Nurse II position
to Full-time Public Health Nurse II position Home Health
Division - Health Department
The Commissioners approved changing a part-time Public
Health Nurse II position to a full-time Public Health Nurse II
position in the Home Health Division of the Health Department.
No cost to the County will be incurred with this change.
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Endorsement of Financial Arrangement for Purchase of Computer
Equipment for New Hanover County Board of Education High School
Computer Labs
The Commissioners endorsed a financial arrangement for
purchase of IBM computers to be used in three high school
computer labs as recommended by the County Manager. The County
will arrange for acquisition of the computers through a County
installment purchasing agreement with First Union Bank, and the
county's contribution to the current expense school budget will
be used to cover the County's cost of financing the equipment.
Acceptance of LSCA Youth Mini-Grant for the New Hanover County
Library _
The Commissioners accepted the LSCA grant in the amount of
$500 for presenting a book discussion program entitled "Kids Talk
About It" for middle school age children to encourage reading.
The grant required a $325 County match which is already included
in the Library'S current operating budget.
RECOGNITION OF NEW COUNTY EMPLOYEES
County Manager O'Neal introduced and welcomed the following
new employees:
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Edna Benson
Debbie wilson
Don George
Van Paxton
Nancy Russ
Jackie Jones
Department of Social
Department of Social
Health Department
Property Management
Health Department
Parks
Services
Services
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Chairman Retchin, on behalf of the Board, welcomed the new
employees and wished them well with their new positions.
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, SEPTEMBER 16, 1991
Page 627
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RECOGNITION OF THE RANKIN COMMUNITY ENRICHMENT PROGRAM
Chairman Retchin, on behalf of the Board, presented the
certificate of Achievement awarded by the North Carolina
Association of County Commissioners to members of the Rankin
Communi ty Enrichment Program for establishing an after school
program which has been most successful in helping school children
to improve their grades and "avoid school failure and dropout. He
commended the Interagency Council for Dropout Prevention, the
County's Department of Social Services, members of the Rankin
Community, Lynn Smithdeal, Cheryl Lofgren, and John Aikens for
their leadership and hard work in implementing this vital and
successful program. He, also, expressed appreciation to
Commissioner Barfield for becoming involved and encouraging the
Commissioners to support and endorse the program.
commissioner Barfield commented on the time and effort given
by Cheryl Lofgren and other members of the Rankin Community
Enrichment organization in implementing the program, and stated
without their willingness to go from door to door in the
community to see that parents became involved, the program would
not be so successful.
APPROVAL OF MODIFICATIONS TO THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY
MULTI-DISCIPLINARY REVIEW TEAM FOR COMPLIANCE TO EXECUTIVE ORDER
#142 ISSUED BY THE GOVERNOR FOR DEVELOPMENT OF COMMUNITY CHILD
PROTECTION TEAMS - DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
Director of Social Services, Wayne Morris, presented
background information on the New Hanover County
Multi-disciplinary Review Team (MDRT) and stated in order to
comply with Executive Order #142, the Board of Governors has
recommended the following modifications to the MDRT to fulfill
the requirements of a Community Child Protection Team:
1.
Amend the "Protocol for MUlti-Disciplinary Team in Physical
and Sexual Child Abuse Cases in New Hanover County, Revised"
to specify a new group of cases to be reviewed: Cases in
which a child died as a result of suspected abuse or neglect
and a report of abuse or neglect had been made to the
Department of Social Services within the previous twelve
months, or the child or his family were recipients of child
protective services within the previous twelve months.
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2. Invi te three new members to participate in the MDRT: A
member of the Board of Social Services appointed by that
Board, the Director of Head Start, and a physician.
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3. Modify the confidentiality requirement in the protocol so
that conditions of the Administrative Rules enacting the
Executive Order may be met.
4. Confirm the CO-Chairmanship by the designees of the District
Attorney and the Director of Social Services.
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Director Morris commented on child abuse and neglect as a
complex community problem and stated the number of severe cases
is increasing daily. The General Assembly has appropriated 4 1/2
million dollars for dealing with child abuse and neglect for the
current fiscal year with 10 million dollars approved for the next
fiscal year. The purpose of the Community Child Protection Team
as outlined in the Governor's Executive Order #142 is to
emphasize the importance of parents and members of the community
becoming involved in addressing this problem.
Director Morris requested adoption
outlining the modifications necessary
MUlti-disciplinary Review Team for compliance
Executive Order.
of the resolution
to the County's
with the Governor's
commissioner Barfield inquired as to how abused children are
cared for when their parents are involved with drugs and asked if
these children are returned to the home? Director Morris stated
a large number of child neglect reports are connected with drug
abuse by the parents; however, funds are not available to place
these children in homes or with foster parents. Presently, the
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, SEPTEMBER 16, 1991
. Page. 628. ..,.
Department of Social Services tries to rebuild the family
structure by providing treatment for every member of the family.
Discussion was held on public assistance funds being used by
the parents for the purchase of drugs instead of providing food
and care for the children. Director Morris stated this problem
does exist, and it is very diff icul t to resolve this issue;
however, in his opinion, efforts like the Rankin Community
Enrichment Program, which involve the parents as well as members
of the community, will prove to be successful in trying to
address problems of this type.
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commissioner Sutton commented on the drastic increase in
foster care for children and inquired as to any specific reason
for the increase? Director Morris stated the problem has been in
existence for a number of years with little public awareness;
however, drugs and the deterioration of the family structure have
contributed significantly to the increase and need for foster
care. He stated the entire nation is in a crisis situation and
every local government is trying to address this problem without
the availability of the necessary funding.
Motion: After further discussion, Chairman Retchin MOVED,
SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Mathews to adopt a resolution approving
the modifications to the County's Multi-disciplinary Review Team
as recommended by Staff in order to comply with Executive Order
#142. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XIX, Page 17.
APPROVAL OF INSTITUTING SUGGESTED DONATION AND PROGRAM FEE AT THE
CAPE FEAR MUSEUM
Ms. Frances Y. Trask, Chairman of the Museum Board of
Trustees, presented background information for a Suggested
Donation Policy and Program Fee at the Cape Fear Museum. She
emphasized the importance of generating new revenues and
requested approval of the following programs:
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1. Suqqested Donation Proqram: Post signs at the front desk
listing suggested donation amounts with a receptionist to
collect the donations. Since the Museum Foundation
currently benefits from the proceeds of the voluntary
donation box, and because the Foundation provides services
to the Museum and the public, it is recommended that the
donations collected be split with the Foundation in the
manner prescribed in the agreement.
2.
Proqram Fee: Charge fees to certain groups, principally
out-of-county, which receive programs from staff or docents.
The non-county participation and moral support of the
Museum's educational programs is significant and expected to
increase with the opening of the expanded Museum.
Currently, New Hanover County taxpayers are subsidizing the
non-county school groups through free educational
programming. During 1989-90, school programs were presented
to approximately 7,000 students composed of 288 groups in
the Museum. Of the total students, 50% were from New
Hanover County; the remainder were from North Carolina
Counties. significant numbers of school groups visit from
Brunswick, Pender and Onslow counties.
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Ms. Trask presented the following fee schedules:
Recommended Cateqories of Suqqested Donations:
Adults (18 and over)
Children (5-17)
Family Group of 4 or more
Senior citizens (65 plus) & Active Military
Children under 5 and Museum Foundation Members
$2.00
$1.00
$5.00
$1. 50
Free
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Page 629
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Recommended Cateqories for Proqram Fees:
School qroups from New Hanover County and County Sponsored
Groups: no fee; no donation.
Non-New Hanover County School Groups Program Fee is to be
based on donation schedule and charged per person.
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Group Fee Schedule: Program fee based on donation schedule
and charged per person.
Out-Reach Programs taken to groups generally by a staff
member:
-Schools in New Hanover County and New Hanover County
Sponsored Groups: no fee or mileage charged.
-Non-County Sponsored Groups in New Hanover County:
(for-profit nursing homes) one free program annually;
additional programs, $5.00 charge per visit.
-Non-New Hanover County Schools and sites: round trip
mileage charged at prevailing County rate plus $12.50
hourly.
-Modifications to the donation and fee schedule may be
made as necessary based upon agreement with the County
Manager and the Museum Director.
Commissioner Sutton expressed concern for the wording of the
proposed agreement, particularly section 1 pertaining to the use
of donations, and recommended rewording of this section.
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Discussion was held on the current agreement with the Museum
Foundation and New Hanover County. Deputy County Manager Gornto
stated an agreement was executed approximately 3-4 years ago
which defines and outlines the relationship and functions between
the Museum Foundation to the Museum. The agreement being
proposed today is between New Hanover County and the Museum
Foundation, which states the County will pay a minimum of $8,000
to the Museum Foundation, but if more money is raised, the
Foundation will receive 1/3 of the money donated.
commissioner Greer inquired as to why the $8,000 figure
should be in the agreement since two sentences down, the
agreement states, "In any case, the maximum the County will ever
pay the Foundation will not exceed actual donations collected
during the fiscal year?"
Consensus: After further discussion of the proposed agreement,
it was the consensus of the Board for the agreement to be
rewritten and presented at a later date for final approval.
Motion: After further discussion of endorsing the concept of
charging fees and receiving donations, Commissioner Sutton MOVED,
SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Mathews to approve the suggested
Donation Schedule and Program Fee Schedule as presented. Upon
vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
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APPEAL OF DISCOVERED VALUE FOR COMMERCIAL PARTY BOAT OWNED BY
ROBERT WOLFE TABLED UNTIL OCTOBER 21, 1991
Tax Administrator, Roland Register, stated the Commissioners
have been furnished the information on the appeal and that he and
Mr. Walter Ward, the Listing Supervisor, will be glad to answer
any questions.
Mr. Robert Wolfe, the owner of the boat, commented on the
difference between wooden and plastic boats. He stated letters
from Gene Woodbury, an insurance agent, and George Bond, the
Dockmaster of the Marina, value the boat at no more than $15,000.
After trying to sell the boat, a mortgage could not be obtained
since the boat was uninsurable. He expressed concern for the
Listing Supervisor assessing a $46,000 value without actually
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, SEPTEMBER 16, 1991
.page 630
coming aboard and seeing the condition of the boat.
presented pictures of the boat, marked as Exhibit I.
Mr. Wolfe
After a review of each picture, Mr. Wolfe requested the
Board to allow comparables to be used in valuing the boat as well
as authorizing a member of the Tax Department Appraisal team to
actually come aboard the boat before assessing a value.
Commissioner Greer stated it appears that the Tax Department
has valued the boat at $17,000 from 1985-1990; therefore, he
feels a wooden boat would not suddenly increase in value.
o
Tax Administrator, Roland Register, stated out of seven
years of listing, only one listing actually showed the right age
of the boat. Mr. Wolfe was consistent in stating he paid $17,000
for the boat, but he did not list what was put in the boat after
purchasing the hull. The boat is now used as a commercial party
fishing boat with no record of a business/personal property
listing for equipment that has been purchased. In order to
receive Coast Guard approval for carrying passengers, the boat
must be adequately equipped and maintained. The Tax Department
has comparables of similar boats with purchase prices of $27,600
for a plain "work boat': $35,700 for a 1975 42 ft. boat; and
$42,000 for a 1977 40 ft. boat. As for value of a wooden boat,
there is record in the Tax Department of a 1967 46 ft. Harker's
Island boat purchased August 31, 1954, for $50,000 and sold
January 15, 1988, for $60,000. The boat is wooden and used for
the same purpose as Mr. Wolfe's boat; therefore, he would
recommend that the values be upheld unless a marine surveyor
provides value to refute the discovered values.
Motion: After a lengthy discussion, Vice-Chairman Mathews MOVED,
SECONDED by Chairman Retchin to uphold the values assessed by the
Tax Department unless a marine surveyor can refute the discovered
values. The floor was opened for discussion.
()
commissioner Greer asked Mr. Wolfe what value he would place
on the boat? Mr. Wolfe stated the boat is not worth more than
$17,000.
commissioner Sutton commented on having
appraisal to prove that the assessed value by the
is not correct; therefore, he would recommend that
a marine surveyor to appraise the boat.
no authorized
Tax Department
Mr. Wolfe hire
commissioner Greer asked Mr.. Wolfe if he would be willing to
hire a marine surveyor. Mr. Wolfe stated he would.
Motion Withdrawn: After further discussion, Vice-Chairman
Mathews withdrew the MOTION to uphold the values as assessed by
the Tax Department.
Motion: Commissioner Sutton MOVED, SECONDED by Chairman Retchin
to table a decision on the tax appeal until the regular meeting
of October 21, 1991, in order to allow Mr. Wolfe to secure a
marine surveyor to appraise the boat. Upon vote, the MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
BREAK
Chairman Retchin convened from Regular Session to hold. a
break from 10:15 o'clock A.M. until 10:30 o'clock A.M.
()
APPROVAL OF CHANGE ORDER ISTE-90-0007-05 TO CONTRACT ISTE-90-0007
WITH CLANCY & THEYS CONSTRUCTION COMPANY FOR VARIOUS ITEMS NOT
ADDRESSED IN THE CONTRACT
Engineering Consultant, Dr. Stanton M. Peters, presented a
change order in the amount of $76,111 for the following items and
stated these items could not be included in the original
contract.
-General Plant Cleanup 4/8/91 thru 4/12/91
-Grouting of the Turbine
-Rodent Protection thru 4/3/91
$ 5,566
$ 3,141
$ 7,718
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, SEPTEMBER 16, 1991
Page 631
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-Fabricate & Install steel for vent silencer support
-Additional curb & gutter, stone & asphalt paving
-Lowering of Pipe Guard at new pit and installation
of Pipe Guard at old pit
-Additional Flashing on roof penetrations
-Painting of itemized areas
-Installation of support steel for siding in ash
chute area
$ 9,362
$18,967
$ 9,701
$ 4,498
$ 9,162
TOTAL
$ 7,996
$76,111
.
commissioner Barfield expressed concern for the original
contract not addressing some of the items listed and inquired as
to why these items were not covered under the original contract?
Dr. Peters stated it is impossible to predict all items that are
necessary in the original contract when fast tracking a project.
commissioner Barfield, also, expressed concern for the
amount of money involved with approval of the change order and
stated it is difficult to ascertain if the items could have been
bid and performed cheaper? Dr. Peters commented on the
complications that would be experienced with bidding small items
as well as having too many contractors on site.
Dr. Peters stated in fairness to County staff as well as to
himself, hours of meetings have been held to protect New Hanover
County and as of this date, the project will be completed within
the budgeted figure presented four years ago. Also, in many
instances, stanton Peters & Associates has paid for items not
listed in the consulting contract; however, in order to move
forward with the project and meet time constraints, the firm has
been willing to absorb these costs.
.
commissioner Barfield requested an explanation of why the
general plant cleanup was not a part of the contract. Dr. Peters
stated on construction contracts, each contractor is required to
clean up their specific area; however, many times the area is not
properly cleaned which creates serious safety hazards; therefore,
the areas must be cleaned.
County Manager O'Neal stated many of the items are involved
with connecting the old plant to the new plant and could not have
been anticipated at the beginning of the project.
Chairman Retchin commented on the expansion being an
unusually complicated project and stated, however, the change
orders to date have amounted to more than $358,000, which
represents 21% of the original contract. He inquired as to the
total cost of the project? Dr. Peters stated the total cost of
the project will come within the budgeted figure; however, the
estimated one million dollars will not be left over in
contingencies as projected.
.
Vice-Chairman Mathews commented on an error in installation
of the pipe guard at the new refuse pit, at a cost of $9,100, and
inquired as to why the pipe was installed too high and why should
the County absorb this cost? Dr. Peters stated since the
drawings and installation of the pipe, the City of Wilmington has
purchased trucks with hydraulic cylinders which have a 8-9 inch
ground clearance; therefore, when opening the new refuse pit,
these trucks could not empty garbage into the pit. He stated
when preparing the drawings, he was not aware that the City was
going to purchase these trucks; therefore, the drawings were
incorrectly prepared and the pipe was installed too high.
commissioner Sutton inquired as to whether any more change
orders will be necessary? Dr. Peters stated two more change
orders will be required.
Motion: After further discussion, commissioner Greer MOVED,
SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Mathews to approve Change Order
#STE90-0007-05 in the amount of $76,111 to the contract with
Clancy & Theys Construction Company. Upon vote, the MOTION
CARRIED AS FOLLOWS:
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, SEPTEMBER 16., 1991
Page 632
Voting Aye: Commissioner Greer
Commissioner Sutton
Vice-Chairman Mathews
Chairman Retchin
voting Nay: Commissioner Barfield
ADOPTION OF AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE IV, SMOKING POLLUTION CONTROL
ORDINANCE, CHAPTER 8.5 HEALTH AND SANITATION OF THE NEW HANOVER
COUNTY CODE
Health Director, Robert Parker, commented on legislative
action which prohibited the sale of tobacco products to minors
under the age of 18, and requested the Board to adopt an
amendment to the local Smoking Pollution Control Ordinance to
read as follows
()
Amend section 8.5-30.
change the title
Prohibited.
Sale of Ciqarettes to Minors Prohibited,
to Sale of Tobacco Products to Minors
The text shall be amended to state: Any retail store that
offers tobacco products for sale shall post a conspicuous
sign stating "It's the Law - We Do Not Sell Tobacco Products
to Persons Under 18".
Director Parker expressed appreciation to the
Institute for furnishing 1,000 signs, free of charge,
Health Department to be distributed to local retailers.
Tobacco
to the
Motion: After further discussion, Commissioner Sutton MOVED,
SECONDED by Commissioner Greer to adopt the amendment to Article
IV, Chapter 8.5 section 8.5-30 as recommended by the Director of
Health. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
A copy of the amendment is hereby incorporated as a part of
the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XIX, Page 17. The
ordinance will be codified into the New Hanover County Code.
()
MEETING CONVENED FROM REGULAR SESSION TO HOLD A REGULAR MEETING
OF THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY WATER & SEWER DISTRICT
Motion: Chairman Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman
Mathews to convene from Regular Session to hold a meeting of the
New Hanover County Water & Sewer District. Upon vote, the MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Chairman Retchin convened from Regular Session at 10:55
o'clock A.M.
Motion: Vice-Chairman Mathews MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner
Greer to reconvene to Regular Session. Upon vote, the MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Chairman Retchin reconvened to Regular Session at 11:48
o'clock A.M.
DISCUSSION OF INCREASING CIVIL FINES
Commissioner Sutton inquired
departments will be increasing civil
General Assembly.
as to when the various
fines as authorized by the
()
Assistant County Attorney, Wanda Copley, stated the County
Manager and Legal Department are in the process of working with
department heads who feel fines should be increased. Once
justifications have been received, a report will be prepared and
presented to the Board.
DISCUSSION OF REGULATIONS GOVERNING PRIVATE AND FAMILY CEMETERIES
Commissioner Sutton expressed concern for no State or County
regulations governing private and family cemeteries and asked if
Staff is reviewing this matter?
.
.
.
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, SEPTEMBER 16, 1991
Page 633
.. ~~:t"l~! . ;1,,1 ~ '
County Manager 0 I Neal stated Staff is in the process of
checking into this matter and will present a report to the Board.
COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS
APPOINTMENT OF REVEREND ANTHONY R. WATSON, CHARLES C. WELLS, AUD
DR. BERTRAM WILLIAMS, JR. TO SERVE ON THE NEW HANOVER REGIONAL
MEDICAL CENTER BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Chairman Retchin stated three (3) vacancies are currently
available on the New Hanover Regional Medical Center Board of
Trustees and that nineteen (19) applications have been received.
Chairman Retchin opened the floor to receive nominations:
Chairman Retchin nominated Irving Fogler.
commissioner Greer nominated Sylvia Rountree.
commissioner Barfield nominated Reverend Anthony Watson.
commissioner Sutton, a member of the Board of Trustees,
stated the Trustees recommended the appointment of Dr. Bertram
Williams, Jr., Mr. Charles Wells, and Reverend Anthony Watson;
therefore, he would like to nominate these applicants.
There being no further nominations,
declared the nominations closed.
Chairman Retchin
Recorded Action: Chairman Retchin called for a vote on each
nominee and the following action was taken:
Irving Fogler received one vote cast by Chairman Retchin.
Sylvia Rountree received two votes cast by Commissioner
Greer and Vice-Chairman Mathews.
Appointed: Reverend Anthony Watson received three votes cast by
Chairman Retchin, Commissioner Sutton, and Commissioner Barfield.
He was appointed to serve a 5-year term on the New Hanover
Regional Medical Center Board of Trustees. The term will expire
September 30, 1996.
Appointed: Mr. Charles C. Wells received a UNANIMOUS VOTE and
was appointed to serve a 5-year term on the New Hanover Regional
Medical Center Board of Trustees. The term will expire September
30, 1996.
Appointed: Dr. Bertram Williams, Jr. received a UNANIMOUS VOTE
and was appointed to serve a 5-year term on the New Hanover
Regional Medical Center Board of Trustees. The term will expire
September 30, 1996.
commissioner Sutton commented on the excellent applications
received for appointment to this Board and urged all applications
to remain on file.
APPOINTMENT OF ENNIS BRITT, THOMAS L. CRITTENDEN, JR., JOHNNY
LEWIS ~OORE AND DAVID SIMS TO SERVE ON THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY
BOARD OF MECHANICAL EXAMINERS
Chairman Retchin stated four (4) vacancies are available and
seven (7) applications have been received.
Chairman Retchin opened the floor to receive nominations.
commissioner Greer
Crittenden, Jr. to fill
positions.
nominated
the two
Ennis
vacant
Britt and
Mechanical
Thomas L.
Contractor
Chairman Retchin nominated Larry W. Lisk to fill one of the
vacant Mechanical Contractor positions.
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, SEPTEMBER 16, 1991 Page 634 .'>
There being no further nominations, Chairman Retchin
declared the nominations closed.
Motion: Commissioner Greer MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner
Sutton to appoint Ennis Britt and Thomas L. Crittenden, Jr. to
serve 2-year terms on the New Hanover Board of Mechanical
Examiners in the category of Mechanical Contractors. The term
will expire August 31, 1993. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
Motion: Due to no other applications being received for a N. C.
Registered Mechanical Engineer and Class I Journeyman Mechanic,
the Board by acclamation reappointed David Sims to serve a 2-year
term on the Board of Mechanical Examiners representing the
category of a N. C. Registered Mechanical Engineer, and appointed
Johnny Lewis Moore to serve a 2-year term on the Board of
Mechanical Examiners representing the category of Class I
Journeyman Mechanic. The terms are to expire August 31, 1993.
()
ADDITIONAL ITEMS - COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
APPROVAL OF FUNDING REQUEST FOR THE MILITARY AFFAIRS COMMITTEE
Vice-Chairman Mathews stated the Military Affairs Committee
has not held its annual reception for military dignitaries in the
region and has requested funding in the amount of $750 from the
County and $750 from the City of Wilmington to assist with
sponsoring this event.
Motion: After discussion of the importance of maintaining an
on-going relationship with the military, Vice-Chairman Mathews
MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Sutton to fund $750 from the
general fund contingency to the Military Affairs Committee for
sponsoring an annual Military Affairs reception. Upon vote, the
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
ADOPTION OF CODE OF ETHICS FOR NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF
COMMISSIONERS
()
Motion: Vice-Chairman Mathews commented on the Code of Ethics
presented at the previous meeting and MOVED, SECONDED by
Commissioner Sutton for the New Hanover County Board of
Commissioners to adopt the Code of Ethics as presented. Upon
vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
A copy of the Code of Ethics is hereby incorporated as - a
part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XIX, Page
17.
ADJOURNMENT
Motion: Commissioner Barfield MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner
Greer to adjourn. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Chairman Retchin adjourned the meeting at 12:05 o'clock P.M.
q;:e ~ctfully :Jbmitted,
V/V~
Lu ie F. Harrell
Clerk to the Board
()
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MINUTES OF WORK SESSION, SEPTEMBER 16, 1991
Page 635
~'~:~'''.,
ASSEMBLY
The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners held a Work
Session on Monday, September 16, 1991, at 1:00 o'clock P.M. in
Room 501 of the New Hanover County Administration Building, 320
Chestnut Street, Wilmington, North Carolina.
.
Members present were: Commissioners Jonathan Barfield, Sr.;
Robert G. Greer; William H. Sutton; Vice-Chairman E. L. Mathews,
Jr.; Chairman Fred Retchin; County Manager, Allen O'Neal;
Assistant County Attorney, Wanda Copley; and Clerk to the Board,
Lucie F. Harrell.
Chairman Retchin called the meeting to order and stated the
Work Session has been scheduled to hear an overview on the duties
and activities of Emergency Medical Services.
OVERVIEW OF EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES
Director of Emergency Medical Services, Larry Ray, presented
background information on the formation of the Emergency Medical
Services (EMS) Department in April 1986 as the result of a Task
Force recommendation. The major reason for formation of the
department was the poor pre-hospital cardiac arrests rate. Prior
to 1986, the cardiac arrests save rate was zero. By December
1986, the EMS Department had reached the national average save
rate of 21% for out-of-hospital cardiac arrests. This was, in
part, due to the implementation of the EMT-Advanced Intermediate
level of care that coincided with the formation of the
consolidated system. New Hanover County EMS was the first
county-wide system in the state to implement this level of care.
Prior to the organized EMS Department, service had been provided
by the Wilmington Fire Department, Ogden/New Hanover Volunteer
Rescue Squad, and Pleasure Island Volunteer Rescue Squad.
.
The EMS Department assumed responsibility for the City of
Wilmington on July 1, 1986, and for the unincorporated areas of
the County, including the beaches, on September 1, 1986. The
county-wide consolidated system was established to handle a call
volume of approximately 7,500 responses.
Although being successful with the EMT-Advanced Intermediate
Program, it was decided in 1989 to upgrade the service to the
EMT-Paramedic level of care. The entire year of 1989 was devoted
to training and in March, 1991 the EMT-Paramedic program was
implemented. New Hanover County EMS was recognized as "EMS of
the Year" in 1990 by the N. C. Association of EMT's.
.
The Wilmington Fire Department continues to provide
crash/rescue response. The Ogden/New Hanover Volunteer Rescue
Squad continues to provide minimal ambulance backup, as well as
night and weekend crash/rescue response. Pleasure Island
Volunteer Rescue Squad ceased to be a provider of EMS service
during FY 1987-88. The County contracts with Medical
Transportation Specialists, Inc. to handle non-emergency routine
transports and out-of-county transports. In addition, the
Wrightsville Beach Fire Department functions as a first responder
agency for the incorporated areas of Wrightsville Beach due to
the possibility of a lengthy EMS response if the drawbridge is
drawn.
New Hanover County EMS presently operates from the following
locations:
Station 1: Military Cut-Off Road - Ogden/New Hanover
Volunteer Rescue Squad
station 2 : County Facility - North Second Street
station 3 : Empie Park Fire station
station 4 : Carolina Beach Road
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MINUTES OF WORK SESSION,. SEPTEMBER 16, 1991 -
Page 636.. .-.
station 5:
Pleasure Island
Medic One:
Castle Hayne station located next to the
Juvenile Center
From the six locations, EMS operates six ambulances, one
Advanced Life Support First Response unit in the Castle Hayne
area, and one Crash-Rescue unit. with the exception of the
Crash-Rescue unit, the service is provided 24 hours a day. The
Crash-Rescue unit is operated by EMS from 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.
Monday through Friday.
The following chart was presented on increased call volume:
Call Volume 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991
EMS Volume 10,267 11,084 11,451 11,053 3,962*
ONH Volume 1,252 1, 170 1.234 1.236 **
TOTAL 11,519 12,254 12,685 12,289
Avg. Response 7.2 8.0 7.2 6.1 6.0
Time (min. )
* January to April 1991
** Current figures unavailable
Discussion was held on the number of calls that are not
legitimate and cannot be billed. Director Ray stated 50% of the
calls received are responses that generate transport, not
emergency medical treatment; therefore, no fee is charged.
The following recommendations were presented for future
consideration:
1.
Call Screeninq: At the present time, anyone who dials 911
and requests an ambulance receives one in an emergency mode.
Implementation of an effective, medically supervised,
emergency medical dispatch program could significantly
decrease the number of emergency responses. Risks could be
involved with this program; therefore, before enacting this
type of system, it must be thoroughly analyzed from the
liability point of view.
2. Operation Procedures: The current EMS system was developed
based on tradition rather than a comprehensive analysis of
needed services and procedures, i.e., ambulances are
dispatched based on predetermined response areas,
predetermined districts, certain vehicles will never leave
areas, etc. The current configuration of fleet and vehicle
placement is largely the same as in 1986. Some
modifications have taken place, such as system status
management and closest vehicle response. A comprehensive
study needs to be performed to determine the most
cost-effective procedures to use in administering EMS
services through districts and placement of vehicles
throughout the County in order to provide the best response
time possible.
3.
Automatic Dispatchinq: We are seriously looking at
implementing a system of simultaneous agency response to
specific incidents. This can best be illustrated by a fire
at a nursing home, where the potential for injury is high.
At present, the need for EMS response is determined by the
fire departments once they have arrived on the scene. Too
often this results in delayed medical response.
Implementing simultaneous dispatching will eliminate delayed
medical response, however, this system will increase annual
call volume and expenses.
4. Public Awareness: Typically EMS is a service that no one
thinks about until they need it. At that point, the
individual's expectations are somewhat distorted ranging
from transportation only to what they have been exposed to
through the media. Due to the public's lack of education
()
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MINUTES OF WORK SESSION, SEPTEMBER 16, 1991
Page 637
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about services rendered, there is a tremendous number of
calls that can be categorized as "taxi service" or system
abuse. By implementing a system of call screening and an
aggressive public educational program, much of the abuse
could be curtailed.
5.
Volunteer Support: The recent ruling by the U. S.
Department of Labor effecting County EMS personnel
volunteering with the Ogden/New Hanover Volunteer Rescue
Squad has placed the squad in a position to provide very
limited service. Efforts have been made by the County to
give the squad every opportunity to return to a level of
service previously provided. The existing contract is to be
reviewed at the end of the first quarter of FY 1991-92.
.
6. Response Time: As previously stated, the system was
designed to accommodate a call volume of 7,500 responses per
year. At present, the call volume exceeds 12,000. In
assessing the effectiveness of the EMS system, one important
factor is response time or the time from when the call is
received at the 911 Center to when the ambulance arrives on
the scene. Although the call volume has significantly
increased, EMS has maintained a very admirable average
county-wide response of approximately six minutes. The
importance of this factor in patient outcome, alone, must
continue to be considered when addressing the provision of
service.
COST OF EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES OPERATION
Finance Director Atkinson presented the budget and revenue
report and stated when initiating the EMS operation and billing
procedures, the following options were presented to the
Commissioners:
.
1.
Should the County recover the entire costs of the EMS
operation through the billing?
Should the County recover the cost of the billing only?
Should the County provide the best quality of service and
recover as much as possible through the billing?
Should the County provide the best quality of service and
totally absorb this cost as a part of the tax base?
2.
3.
4.
Director Atkinson stated the Commissioners, at that time,
selected the option to provide the best quality of EMS service
and recover as much as possible through billing. The decision
was, also, made to accept Medicare assignments and not report
persons to a collection agency as long as an effort was being
made to pay for the service rendered. These guidelines are still
being followed today with a change in an ALS call fee from $75 to
$200 per call effective July 1, 1990. The per call cost has been
calculated based upon non-emergency responses which are
uncollectible and create an actual cost per call of $310;
however, due to this fee being too high, a $200 fee per call was
established.
Director Atkinson presented
information for EMS responses:
the
following
billing
.
PATIENT WITH MEDICAID ONLY:
Amount Billed
MEDICAID Payment
Required writedown
ALS
$200.00
45.00
155.00
ALS02
$200.00
40.00
150.00
PATIENT WITH MEDICARE ONLY:
Amount Billed
MEDICARE Payment
Required Writedown
Patient Responsible: Accept Assignment
$200.00
108.89
63.89
27.22
$200.00
108.89
63.89
27.22
PATIENT WITH BOTH MEDICAID/MEDICARE:
Amount Billed
$200.00
$200.00
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MINUTES OF WORK SESSION, SEPTEMBER 16, 1991
Page 638
.\
MEDICARE Payment
MEDICAID Payment
Patient Responsible
Required writedown
ALS
$108.89
27.22
-0-
63.89
ALS02
$108.89
27.22
-0-
63.89
PATIENT WITH OTHER INSURANCE:
Amount Billed
Insurance Payment
Patient Responsible
$200.00
160.00
40.00
$200.00
160.00
40.00
()
Director Atkinson commented on charges and receipts and
stated when the new rate of $200 was approved in July 1, 1990, it
required eight months for Medicare to accept and process the new
rate; therefore, for the past eight months, the County has
received only $62.00 Medicare reimbursement per $200 call instead
of the $108.89. This has greatly impacted on the 1990-91
collection rate. The following collection rates and factors
affecting collections were presented:
COLLECTION RATES:
1987 - Collection Rate 41.99%
1988 - Collection Rate 51.54
1989 - Collection Rate 51.25%
1990 - Collection Rate 49.87%
1991 - Collection Rate 34.20%
FACTORS AFFECTING COLLECTIONS:
1. Over 50% of billable calls have no insurance coverage.
There are many transient people with no permanent addresses.
2.
By accepting Medicare and Medicaid at current rates, all ALS
calls have an automatic writedown of approximately 35%.
()
3. Over 4,000 calls come to the 911 Center that are not
billable.
4.
Approximately 10-15%
delivered due to
information.
of bills are returned without being
incomplete or incorrect address
5. Since the amounts due are small, the Legal Department has
not had adequate Staff to aggressively pursue past .due
accounts. wi th the new position approved in this year's
budget more time will be spent on collection of EMS
accounts.
PROCEDURES FOR IMPROVING THE COLLECTIONS RATE
1. Garnish wages. An additional person will be needed to
perform this function.
2. Employ a collection agency and turn over accounts after a
certain number of days.
3.
Continue to pursue acquiring a provider number from Blue
Cross Blue Shield to enable the County to file directly with
the insurance company.
o
4. More accurate billing information needs to be collected by
the EMT's, remembering that the situation may not always be
conducive to collecting the information.
5. stop accepting assignment on medicare calls. Patients must
pay in full before the County will file insurance for them.
commissioner Sutton commented on the billing procedure and
inquired as to how information is obtained from the patient when
responding to the call? Finance Director Atkinson stated
difficulty has been experienced by EMT's in completing the
necessary forms under emergency conditions; therefore, many times
.
.
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MINUTES OF WORK SESSION, SEPTEMBER 16, 1991
Page 639
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the necessary information is not obtained and no payment is
received.
commissioner Sutton recommended working with the local
hospitals to share the information received from patients when
being admitted to the hospital. Finance Director Atkinson stated
the new Finance Director at New Hanover Regional Medical Center
is in the process of checking out legal issues involved with
providing the County billing information. In the past, the
hospital staff felt this information could not be released due to
violating the Client/patient relationship with the hospital.
commissioner Sutton inquired as to why Blue Cross Blue
Shield will not provide the County a provider number? Finance
Director Atkinson stated Blue Cross Blue Shield has not been
willing to issue a provider number since the County is not
affiliated with a medical institution; however, a letter has
recently been written to Blue Cross requesting a provider number.
Hopefully they will respond favorably.
Further discussion was held on the high percentage of
collection rates in counties affiliated with medical institutions
who have been issued a provider number and who have adopted the
the policy of garnishing wages for collection of EMS services.
commissioner Sutton recommended turning over delinquent
accounts to the Credit Bureau stating this procedure has proven
to be quite successful in collecting unpaid bills.
After further discussion of the excellent services being
rendered by the County's EMS Department, Chairman Retchin, on
behalf of the Board, expressed appreciation to Director Larry Ray
for an excellent presentation.
County Manager 0' Neal stated Staff will be contacting the
hospital with reference to billing information as well as
pursuing issuance of a provider number from Blue Cross Blue
Shield. The Commissioners will be informed of any results that
occur from these efforts.
STRATEGIC PLANNING WORK SESSION PLANNED FOR OCTOBER 21, 1991
County Manager 0' Neal announced that the Work Session for
October 21, 1991, will be devoted to Strategic Planning.
ADJOURNMENT
Motion: Vice-Chairman Mathews MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner
Sutton to adjourn. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Chairman Retchin adjourned the Work Session at 2:15 o'clock
P.M.
r2"~CVJZ:d.
~~ F. Harrell
Clerk to the Board
.....1