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1992-03-04 Regular Meeting ~ MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF MARCH 4, 1992 PAGE 827 ASSEMBLY The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners met in Regular Session on Wednesday, March 4, 1992, at 6:30 P.M. in the New Hanover County Courthouse, 24 North Third Street, Wilmington, North Carolina. . Members present were: Commissioners Jonathan Barfield, Sr.; Fred Retchin; William H. Sutton; Vice-Chairman Robert G. Greer; Chairman E. L. Mathews, Jr.; County Manager, Allen O'Neal; County Attorney, Robert W. Pope; and Clerk to the Board, Lucie F. Harrell. Chairman Mathews called the meeting to order and welcomed all persons present. INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Reverend Keith Wiley, Pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Church, gave the invocation. Vice-Chairman Greer led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. NON-AGENDA ITEMS Chairman Mathews asked if anyone from the general public would like to present an item not listed on the Regular Agenda or comment on an item listed on the Consent Agenda. Ms. Elsie Brisson, a representative of Coastal Sash & Door Company (a subcontractor for the Senior Center) inquired as to when Leader Construction Company will be paid in full for completion of the Senior Center and stated it is her understanding that Coastal Sash & Door will not be paid until the County had paid Leader. . County Attorney Pope stated payment to Leader Construction Company by the County has no influence on the legal process established for ensuring that subcontractors are paid. The County requires a bond from all contractors for the sole purpose of protecting subcontractors and suppliers. Ms. Brisson was requested to contact the Legal Department for assistance in filing a complaint to the bonding company for payment of work performed. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA Motion: Commissioner Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Barfield to approve the Consent Agenda as presented. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. CONSENT AGENDA Approval of Minutes The Commissioners approved the minutes of the Regular Meeting and Special Work Session held on February 17, 1992, as presented by the Clerk to the Board. Adoption of Resolutions Adding Roads to the State Highway System The commissioners adopted resolutions adding the following roads to the State Highway System: . Hemlock Rd. (Sec. 1, Maplewood Subdivision) Farm Road (off of Sidbury Road) Crosswinds Dr.; Offshore Dr.; Rushing Dr.; Rushing ct.; Leeward ct.; Northeaster Dr. (Section 1, Cross- winds Subdivision) Copies of the resolutions are hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and are contained in Exhibit Book XIX, Page 30. Ratification of Appointment of Mr. Rex Wayne O'Dell As Extraterritorial Member of Carolina Beach Board of Adjustment The Commissioners ratified the appointment of Rex Wayne O'Dell to serve as the extraterritorial member of the Carolina Beach Board -~ / ( ~ MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF MARCH 4, 1992 PAGE 828 of Adjustment. This appointment fills the unexpired term of William Brown, who is no longer eligible since he lives within a recently annexed area by the Town of Carolina Beach. Acceptance of Personal Property Disposals Report in Accordance with G.S. 160A-266 (C) - Tax Department The Commissioners accepted the Personal Property Disposals Report for the period of July 1, 1991, through December 31, 1991, as submitted by the Finance Director. () A copy of the report is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XIX, Page 30. Award of Bid #92-0235 and Approval of Contract #92-0235 for Purchase of Vehicles - Sheriff's Department The Commissioners adopted a resolution awarding the lowest responsible bid to D & E Car Exchange, Inc. in the amount of $18,500 for purchase of a 1991 Monaco and 1990 Dynasty. The Chairman was authorized to execute the contract documents. A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XIX, Page 30. A copy of the contract is on file in the Legal Department. Authorization for Filing of a Mini-Grant with the N. C. Youth Advisory Council - Health Department The Commissioners authorized the filing of a mini-grant in the amount of $676 with the N. C. Youth Advisory Council to support the activities of the Friends in Health Club, which provides support and student leadership to the New Hanover County Health Dep~rtment's "Teen Guidance and Insight on Health" program. Approval of Budget Amendment #92-0129 - Committee of 100 The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment: o Non-Departmental/Outside Agencies/Economic & Physical Development Debit Credit Non-Departmental Contingencies $10,000 Outside Aqencies/Economic & Physical Development Committee of 100 $10,000 Purpose: To transfer funds from contingencies for an additional contribution of $10,000 to the Committee of 100. Budget Amendment #92-0127 Reported for Entry Into the Minutes The following Budget Amendment was reported for entry into the minutes: 92-0127 Human Services Transportation system Debit Credit Human Services Transportation System Federal - DOT 18-B-2 Vans State - DOT 18-B-2 Vans () $35,091 $11,697 Motor Vehicle Purchases $46,788 Purpose: To budget federal and state grant revenues for the purchase of three vans for the Human Services Transportation System. The grant application was ,qpproved by the Commissioners on February 18, 1992. No additional County funds are required. . . . c\;;.r ;' 4) ~ . :...' i " ::~... "~I.l ~; MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF MARCH 4, 1992 PAGE 829 Approval of Budget Amendment #92-0130 - Social services/Child Day Care The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment: 92-0130 Social services/Child Day Care Debit Credit social Services/Child Dav Care Office of Day Care Services $68,213 Day Care Services $68,213 Purpose: To budget additional State allocation for the Child Day Care Program to purchase day care services. No additional County funds are required. Approval of Budget Amendment #92-0132 - special Fire District The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment: 92-0132 Special Fire District/volunteer Fire Departments Debit Credit Special Fire District/Volunteer Fire Departments Appropriated Fund Balance $149,725 Winter Park Volunteer Fire Dept. $149,725 Purpose: To budget an allocation of $149,725 from the Fire District Fund Balance to purchase pagers for a fully integrated paging system for the volunteer fire departments as recommended by the Board of Fire Commissioners on February 19, 1992. The system will simplify dispatch procedures for the 911 Center and provide a faster and more consistent dispatch for fire calls. provisions have been made in the configuration of the system and equipment to accommodate growth and expansion of fire dispatch functions. winter Park Volunteer Fire Department will coordinate the purchase for all of the volunteer fire departments. Approval of Budget Amendment #92-0131 - Aging Department The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment: 92-0131 Aging Department Debit Credit Aqinq/Administration contributions $1,000 Aqinq/Senior Center Other Improvements Departmental Supplies $ 650 $ 350 Purpose: To budget donations from individuals and groups to the Department of Aging for a sound system at the new Senior Center and other small items that will enhance the new Center. Approval of Request for Closure of Flemington Oak Grove cemetery The Commissioners approved closing of Flemington Oak Grove Cemetery as recommended by Staff. The cemetery, which has occasionallY been used for pauper burials, is in a difficult location for maintenance and supervision. The County will continue to maintain the existing cemetery; however, the cemetery will be closed for future burials. RECOGNITION OF NEW HANOVER COUNTY COOPERATIVE EXTENSION SERVICE FOR RECEIVING THE STATE COUNTY EXTENSION EPSILON SIGMA PHI OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE AWARD Chairman Mathews, on behalf of the Board, presented a certificate of Appreciation to Phil Ricks, the Director of the ~ ( r ~ ~~NUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF MARCH 4, 1992 PAqE 8~.C1 County Cooperative Extension Service and employees of the agency for receiving the state County Extension Epsilon Sigma Phi outstanding Performance Award. Congratulations were extended for bringing this honor to New Hanover County. Director of the Cooperative Extension service, Phil Ricks, introduced the following members of staff: Joy Frauson, Denise Dicks, Susan Boyette, Sandra Hughes and David Barkley; and stated the award is sponsored and presented by the National Epsilon Sigma Phi Fraternity composed of members of Cooperative Extension Services throughout the country; therefore, the honor is quite meaningful since it is chosen by peers. He also commented on being recognized for a food nutrition program entitled, the American Health Association Food Festival, and the fact that Agricultural Extension Agent, David Barkley has been chosen to participate in the "North Carolina in the World Program" and will be spending two weeks in Ecuador to be totally funded by the State. Emphasis was placed on the number of awards received by the County Cooperative Extension Service and the outstanding group of employees. () 100th BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION OF THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY COURTHOUSE The Commissioners were requested to authorize a 100th Birthday Celebration for the County Courthouse located at 24 North Third Street, Wilmington, N. C., at a cost less than $1,000. The County will purchase a plaque and hold a dedication program followed by refreshments and a two-hour open house on April 20, 1992, from 3:0q P.M. until 5:00 P.M. Discussion was held on the fact that the Regular Meeting of the Board is scheduled for Tuesday, April 21 with the suggestion that the celebration be held on the same day. Motion: After discussion, commissioner Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Barfield to authorize Staff to hold a 100th Birthday Celebration of the Courthouse on April 21, 1992, from 3:00 P.M. until 5:00 P.M. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. () PRESENTATION OF THE 1990-91 HUMAN RELATIONS ANNUAL REPORT Mr. Ed Mayorga, Past Chairman of the New Hanover Human Relations Commission, presented the 1990-91 Annual Report and commented on the following accomplishments with emphasis being placed on the dedicated work of the Human Relations Commission, Staff and volunteers: -Receipt of the "David S. Col traine Award" for leadership, commitment, and service. -The Human Relations Month Gala, an event unique to New Hanover County and one of the most successful public gatherings for the recognition of human relations leadership in our community. -The three-part "Past, Present and Future" symposium in which hundreds of persons shared their experiences relative to human relations in New Hanover County and helped set an agenda for the future. -Well attended workshops on the new Federal Fair Housing amendments, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and sexual harassment. () -$69,000 in case settlements, the highest in several years. -103 new charges of employment and housing discrimination filed, the largest number since 1983. -An average case processing time of 87 days, compared to 'a national average of 254 days. It,:., /;',".;}: ~ ...:;:. '\:. ~~~':,f J., MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF MARCH 4, 1992 PAGE 831 Chairman Mathews, on behalf of the Board, expressed appreciation to the Human Relations Commission for an excellent report. . Motion: Commissioner Retchin complimented the Human Relations Commission for outstanding work in the promotion of human relations throughout the community as noted at the Awards Banquet and MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Greer to accept the report as presented. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. A copy of the report is on file in the Human Relations office. DISCUSSION OF SCHEDULING A JOINT MEETING WITH THE WILMINGTON CITY COUNCIL County Manager O'Neal stated after discussion of a meeting date with City officials, the morning of April 15, 1992, at 7:30 A.M. has been selected. The City will host the first meeting with the County hosting another meeting in approximately six months. commissioner Retchin requested that another date be selected due to a conflict of meeting dates, and, also, recommended that discussion of merging the Planning and Parks & Recreation Departments should be placed on the agenda. commissioner Barfield recommended discussing the merging of departments among the Commissioners before discussing this item with the City. Commissioner Retchin stated this issue has been discussed among the commissioners with Staff instructed to work with City officials for preparation of a recommendation; therefore, he feels the City and County should begin to discuss this item. . Consensus: After further discussion, it was the consensus of the Board to direct the County Manager to schedule a joint meeting with the City on April 22, or 29, 1992, at 7:30 A.M. with preparation of an agenda for discussion of joint legislative issues and a Status Report on the progress made by City and County Staff Members on the possibility of merging the Planning and Parks & Recreation Departments. The Board will be informed of the meeting date. DESIGNATION OF THE CAPE FEAR COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS AS THE LEAD AGENCY FOR THE HOME AND COMMUNITY CARE BLOCK GRANT FOR OLDER ADULTS AND ESTABLISHMENT OF THE AGING ADVISORY COUNCIL Deputy County Manager, Mary Gornto, stated legislation was enacted during the 1991 Session of the General Assembly, which established a Home and Community Care Block Grant for Older Adults to combine existing funds currently administered by Aging and Social Services into a "common funding stream" ~ The purpose of the legislation is to improve the management and delivery of services to older adults, and in order to implement the Block Grant, a lead agency must be designated with establishment of an Aging Advisory Council. Staff recommends designating the Cape Fear Council of Governments as the lead agency and appointing the following members to serve on the Aging Advisory Council. No additional County funds are required. . -Dept. of Aging Director (or designee): -Aging Advisory Council: -RSVP Advisory Committee: -VOCAL: -Areas Agency on Aging (COG Committee): -Dept. of Social Services Dir. (or designee) : Annette Crumpton Louise Siler Allen Cobb Bert Kring Bill Hepfinger Wayne Morris Director of Aging, Annette Crumpton, further explained the new plan and stated the Commissioners will have more flexibility in how funds are spent, the level of services rendered, and who the service providers will be. ~ ( MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF MARCH 4, 1992 PAGE .8.32 Motion: Commissioner Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Barfield to designate the Council of Governments as the lead agency responsible for the Home and Community Care Block Grant for Older Adults and to establish an Aging Advisory Council composed of members as recommended by Staff. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. ACTION DEFERRED ON JOINING CAPE FEAR RIVER BASIN ORGANIZATION County Manager O'Neal stated the Fayetteville Area Chamber of Commerce is requesting jurisdictions along the Cape Fear River to establish a Cape Fear River Basin Organization to prevent interbasin transfers. Other such organizations in the state have proven to be instrumental in limiting interbasin transfers; therefore, the County has been requested to join in with this effort. Staff recommends responding positively to the Fayetteville Area Chamber of Commerce based upon the need to prevent further interbasin transfers. The cost to the County would be minimal. Mr. Jack Henriksen commented on the Cape Fear River as being the most valuable resource in New Hanover County and stated an Advisory Task Force composed of representatives from industry, the Department of Environmental Management, and environmental action groups worked with the Committee of 100 in performing a Cape Fear River Water Quality Study specifically showing the ecology of the river. He requested the Commissioners to allow the Advisory Task Force to present the study before deciding to join the Cape Fear River Basin Organization. commissioner Retchin inquired as to whether this group would be in competition with the Cape Fear River Basin Organization. Mr. Kurt Taube, Executive Director of the Lower Cape Fear Water & Sewer Authority, stated the two agencies will not be competitive with each other; however, it is imperative that all agencies work together in limiting interbasin transfers so that the area's water supply will not be effected. Motion: After further discussion, Vice-Chairman Greer MOVED, SECONDED by Chairman Mathews to delay action on this item until the report has been heard from the Advisory Task Force. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. PRESENTATION ON USE OF HUD REFUND MONIES BY THE WILMINGTON HOUSING AUTHORITY Mr. J. Alan Jones, Executive Director of the Housing Authority, commented on the use of HUD refund monies in the amount of $1,620,821 and presented the following plan: -The following funds are available from the sale of houses in Creekwood North: $1,442,485 168,732 $1,620,821 Refund from HUD Held in Housing Authority Reserve Total Proceeds from Sale of Turnkey III Houses $1,774,388 Principal Balance on the Remaining Houses to be Sold As required by HUD the Housing Authority must submit a plan after consultation with resident organizations and local governments. This synopsis is intended to advise residents, Housing Authority Commissioners, and local elected officials of the plan for the use of the refund from the sale of houses in Creekwood North. The plan only budgets for the use of the $1,620,821 received by HUD from houses already sold. As houses are sold in the future, the proceeds from the $1,774,388 may be allocated to one or more of these housing programs. The funds will be used as follows: ~ o () () ~g.}""~' -'!; ,~. -.., ,,~ ......; r n- MtNUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF MARCH 4, 1992 PAGE 83"3 $200,000 - Modernization and Landscaping Improvements to Public Housing Developments '. $500,000 $500,000 $400,000 $20,821 - Development of Apartment Complex - Home Ownership Pool - Homeplace Housing - Down Payment Assistance $1,620,821 - Low Interest Rate Construction Loans The Commissioners were requested to endorse the plan as presented. Commissioner Barfield inquired as to whether the funds will be confined to the City Limits. Mr. Jones stated the proposal as presented is within the corporate limits of the City; however, consideration can be given to using the funds anywhere within the Housing Authority's jurisdiction. commissioner Barfield commented on a recent meeting with HUD officials in Washington, D. C., and stated federal funds may become available for providing ownership of units in projects, such as Jervay. :. Mr. Jones stated the Housing Authority is moving rapidly in developing self-sufficiency programs and expressed appreciation to members of the County Staff for giving of their time to work on the Jervay Project, particularly Law Enforcement, the Department of Social Services, and Administrative Staff. - Motion: After further discussion of the Housing Authority's jurisdiction, Commissioner Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Sutton to endorse the plan as presented with the recommendation that, "where appropriate", funds will be used throughout New Hanover County. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. A copy of the plan is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XIX, Page 30. BREAK Chairman Mathews called for a break from 8:00 P.M. until 8:10 P.M. ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 8, FIRE PROTECTION AND PREVENTION, ARTICLE II AND ARTICLE III OF THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY CODE The Commissioners were requested to adopt amendments to Chapt~r 8 of the Fire Protection and Prevention Ordinance in order to comply to the State's mandatory Fire Code. ~. Motion: After discussion, Commissioner Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Greer to adopt the amendments to Article II and Article III in Chapter 8 of the New Hanover County Code as presented. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. A copy of the ordinance is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XIX, Page 30. The ordinance is will be codified into the New Hanover County Code. REPORT .ON THE ECONOMY OF NEW HANOVER COUNTY AS PART OF THE 1991 WILMINGTON-NEW HANOVER COUNTY LAND USE PLAN UPDATE Planning Director, Dexter Hayes, presented a report entitled, The Economy of New Hanover County, and stated this information plays an important role in the formulation of local development ~ ( , MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF MARCH 4, 1992 PAGE 83.4.. regulations, such as zoning ordinances, as well as providing input for growth policy decisions. The various components of the report also provide useful data to the public and private sectors in considering development proposals. The following topics were discussed: 1. Introductory Summary of the Economy -County's Total Employment -Changes in Manufacturing Employment -Changes in Non-manufacturing Employment -Employment in New Hanover County and the u.S. -Shift Share Analysis Results -Completion of I-40 -Travel and Tourism Expenditures -state Port Impact -Construction Activity -Retail Sales Per Capita -Improvement of Airport Facilities () 2. Assessinq the Economic Data Used -Types of statistics Utilized -Types of Employment categories Used -Handling of Other Economic Data 3. Employment Indicators -Employment by Place of Work -Industry Employment -Manufacturing Employment -Non-manufacturing Employment -New Hanover County and U. S. Employment Compared 4. . shift Share Analvsis of Employment -Explanation of Methods Used a. National Growth Effect b. Industrial Structure Effect c. Competitive Edge Effect {\ \ '- ..-" -Comparison of Results a. Results for Interval 1978-1983 b. Results for Interval 1983-1987 c. Results for Interval 1987-1990 5. Discussion of Additional Economic Factors -Completion of I-40 -Travel and Tourism Impacts -State Port Impacts -Construction Activity -Per Capita Retail Sales -Expansion of Airport Facilities 6. Economic overview: The results of the study show that New Hanover County is the economic trade and service center for southeastern North Carolina. The County's economy is partially dependent on the economic health and growth of surrounding counties. Employment data shows that the County is a maj or generator of jobs for the region. There is a substantially larger number of employees that commute into the county daily than are residents who leave the county daily for employment. The three largest employment sectors are Trade (28.9%), Service (21.3%) and Government (17.2%). The County's employment level in Trade exceeds the national level, whereas Service and Government levels of employment are about the same for the County and nation. Though manufacturing has not grown overall, increases have occurred in many of the smaller sectors that comprise the manufacturing category. with the opening of Interstate 40, the Wilmington area is now tied to the National Interstate System. This should improve regional access and should also be beneficial to the port and air transportation facilities. positive impacts should also be felt in the tourism industry, which accounts for an important part of New (\ \ j ~ ~ MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF MARCH 4, 1992 PAGE 83'S Hanover County's economy. continued growth and expansion in all of southeastern North Carolina will have a positive impact as the County continues to lead the region in trade and service. Motion: Commissioner Sutton MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Retchin to adopt the report as presented. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. . A copy of the report is on file in the Planning Department. PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER ISSUING A SPECIAL USE PERMIT FOR ESTABLISHMENT OF A DAY CARE SERVICE AT 307 DEERFIELD ROAD IN PRINCE GEORGE ESTATES (S-340, 2/92) Chairman Mathews opened the Public Hearing and stated the special use process requires a quasi-judicial hearing; therefore, persons wishing to testify must be sworn in by the Clerk to the Board. The following persons were sworn in: Edith Reason James Washington . Planning Director, Dexter Hayes, stated the Planning Commission voted 4 to 1 to recommend issuance of the Special Use Permit to establish a day care service at 307 Deerfield Road in Prince George Estates. The Planning Commission felt off-street parking arrangements, building setbacks, fencing and external access from the proposed addition to the dwelling could be accommodated on the site. Members of the Prince George Estates Homeowners Association and other property owners objected to the use and advised the Planning Commission that the use is not consistent with restrictive covenants. The following staff findings were presented: General Requirement #1: The proposed use will not materially endanger the public health or safety if located where proposed and developed according to the plan as submitted and approved based upon the following findings: A. The site is located within the Castle Hayne Volunteer Fire Department District. B. The site has direct access to Deerfield Road, a state- maintained street. C. Preliminary inquiries and consultations have been completed with State Day Care Licensing officials, the County Health Department, Building Inspections, and Fire Marshal. General Requirement #2: The proposed use meets all required conditions and specifications,of the Zoning Ordinance based upon the following findings: A. The site is zoned R-10 Residential. Child day care is permitted by special use permit conferment only. . B. Parking is required as follows: One (1) space for each employee, plus four (4) spaces for off-street drive-in and pick-up. Four (4) spaces, in addition to existing off-street spaces for the residence, are planned. C. Drop-offs and pick-ups are required without having to back into the street. The site plan illustrates a drop-off/pick-up area whereby cars would enter the site and turn around before exiting. D. A fenced play area is required. The applicant proposes a 30' by 30' fenced play area at a minimum height of four (4) ~ ( I MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF MARCH 4, 1992 PAGE 836 feet. E. Because the site is not located on a collector or arterial road as identified on the New Hanover County Thoroughfare Classification Plan, the outside signage proposed for the site cannot exceed two square feet. A sign is planned to be placed on a six foot wooden stockade fence located at the rear of the existing residence. General Requirement #3: The proposed use will not substantially injure the value of adjoining or abutting property or that the use is a public necessity based upon the following findings: () A. The center to be developed will consist of a 560 square foot addition to the existing residence. General Requirement #4: The location and character of the proposed use if developed according to the plan as submitted and approved will be in harmony with the area in which it is to be located and in general conformity with the plan of development for New Hanover County based upon the following findings: A. The site is located in Prince George Estates Subdivision. This development is zoned R-10 Residential and developed exclusively with single-family residences. Chairman Mathews asked if the petitioner or anyone from the general public would like to speak in favor of the proposed use. The following person commented: Ms. Edith Reason, the petitioner, commented on the need for child day care in the area and stated the purpose of enlarging her home is to provide ample space to care for toddlers and infants. Chairman Mathews asked Ms. Reason if she agreed with the findings of fact as presented by the Planning Director. Ms. Reason stated she concurred with the findings as presented. () Chairman Mathews asked if anyone from the general public would like to speak in opposition to the proposed use. The following person commented: Mr. James Washington, President of the Prince George Estates Homeowners Association, expressed concern for restrictive covenants being violated through issuance of a Special Use Permit and stated residents of the community are fearful that other business-type ventures will be permitted with devaluation of property in the subdivision. Chairman Mathews closed the Public Hearing. Vice-Chairman Greer expressed concern for the proposed use not being in harmony with the area since it does not comply to the restrictive covenants which specify single-family homes and prohibit non-residential uses in the neighborhood. Motion: After further discussion, commissioner Barfield MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Greer to deny the request based upon the evidence presented not satisfactorily meeting General Requirement #4, specifically that the proposed use would not be in harmony with the area since restrictive covenants for Prince George Subdivision prohibit non-residential uses in the neighborhood. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. () A copy of the Special Use Permit denying the request is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contained in SUP Book II, Page 2. ~ ~ :-~.. '~'"7'..l'- MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF MARCH 4, 1992 PAGE 837 PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER REZONING APPROXIMATELY .68 OF AN ACRE ON THE WEST SIDE OF BLOSSOM STREET NORTH OF HICKORY AVENUE IN CASTLE HAYNE TO B-2 BUSINESS FROM R-15 RESIDENTIAL (Z-445,2/92) Chairman Mathews opened the Public Hearing. . Planning Director, Dexter Hayes, stated the Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of the rezoning request. Discussion focused on the potential impact of the rezoning on Blossom street; however, it was concluded that the land is not appropriate for residential use. In order to relieve concern for commercial road frontage on Blossom street, the Planning Commission voted to expand the B-2 District to within 15 feet of the western right-of-way of Blossom street, leaving a 15 foot wide residential strip to allow the applicant to develop the site commercially, but not promote commercial frontage on a local residential street. It also provides for additional building setbacks for new construction adjacent to Blossom street. The Planning Staff recommends denial of the rezoning request due to concern for erosion of the residential charter of Blossom Street. If approved, the rezoning would set a precedent for similar requests which will irrevocably alter the area's residential character. The only drawback to limiting the B-2 line to its current position is that the properties will remain split by a zoning district boundary. However, in this case, that concern is outweighed by the need to limit commercial encroachment into the local street network. Chairman Mathews asked if the petitioner or anyone from the general public would like to speak in favor of the proposed rezoning. The following person commented: . Mr. Kit Austin, owner of the property and entire block, stated he purchased this land before zoning was established in Castle Hayne. In order for the land to be used in the future, the proposed B-2 rezoning is requested, and the recommendation presented by the Planning Commission is acceptable. , Chairman Mathews asked if anyone from the general public would like to speak in opposition to the proposed rezoning request. No comments were received. Chairman Mathews closed the Public Hearing. Motion: After discussion of the 15 foot buffer, Commissioner Barfield MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Greer to approve the rezoning request as recommended by the Planning Commission. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. A copy of "AN ORDINANCE OF THE COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER AMENDING THE ZONING MAP OF ZONING AREA CASTLE HAYNE OF NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA, ADOPTED JULY 1, 1985" is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contained in Zoning Book II, section entitled, Castle Hayne, Page 16. . PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER CLOSING AN UNNAMED ROAD ON THE WEST SIDE OF BALD EAGLE LANE Chairman Mathews requested to be excused from discussing or voting on the proposed request since he is a resident of the area. Consensus: It was the consensus of the Board to excuse Chairman Mathews from voting on the proposed road closing. Vice-Chairman Greer opened the Public Hearing. Planning Director, Dexter Hayes, stated the petitioner has requested closure of the 20 foot dedicated,.unimproved right-of-way due to potential vehicular, pedestrian and bike traffic from Porters Neck Plantation to the waterfront. Also, the County Engineering Department states no part of the unnamed road is needed ~ ( MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF MARCH 4, 1992 PAGE 838 for utility purposes. Based on County decisions of denying similar petitions and in consideration of adopted County policies of preserving and protecting public shore front access areas, staff recommends denial of the request to close the right-of-way. Vice-Chairman Greer asked if the petitioner or anyone from the general public would like to speak in favor of closing the right- of-way. The following person commented: Mr. John Youngs, representing the residents of Bald Eagle Lane and owner of Lot H, presented a map showing that the road is not used and listed the following reasons for the proposed .road closure: (1) the easement is not needed for utility purposes; (2) the easement is not needed for road access; (3) a 20 foot strip is too narrow for a roadway; (4) the density of the two developments on either side of the road is entirely different with high density for the golf course development; (5) the golf course would like to close the easement due to concern for public safety; (6) both neighborhoods are concerned about the road being used for late night parking creating traffic and noise; and (7) closing the road would add an acre of land to the County tax base. He requested the Board to close the road as petitioned. () Mr. Jack Stuart, representing Porter's Neck Golf Course, expressed concern for the safety of persons when using the road as a walkway with the proximity of the golf course. Vice-Chairman Greer asked if anyone from the general pUblic would like to speak in opposition to closing the right-of-way. The following person commented: Mr. Paul Teachey, owner of Lot I, presented pictures of the road and stated he has maintained and used this portion of the road as a driveway for the past 27 years. He stated if the road is closed, it would create an unnecessary hardship for access to his property. n commissioner Barfield expressed concern for nature trails being used by young people for parking and eventually devaluing surrounding property. Vice-Chairman Greer closed the Public Hearing. Discussion was held on the deeding of land to property owners if the road is closed. County Attorney Pope stated, by law, the title passes to each property owner. In this case 10 additional feet would be deeded to each property owner. Commissioner Sutton recommended closing the western and southern segments of the road with the northern portion remaining open. Motion: After discussion of a satisfactory agreement for all parties involved, commissioner Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Sutton to close the western and southern segments of the road with the northern right-of-way remaining open. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS: voting Aye: Commissioner Barfield Commissioner Retchin commissioner Sutton Vice-Chairman Greer (; Excused: Chairman Mathews A copy of the order is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XIX, Page 30. '~ ,.., . ~.;; ::t~ ~ :~t,,~, . ~..: .- MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF MARCH 4, 1992 PAGE 839 APPROVAL OF CHANGE ORDERS FOR THE WASTE-TO-ENERGY FACILITY EXPANSION Director of Environmental Management, Ray Church, presented the following change orders and stated no other change orders will be submitted for the Waste-To-Energy Expansion project: . Change Order #89-0024-02-COppus Murray Turbomachinery corporation, Contract #89-0024-02, in the amount of $23,475 for additional start-up costs for the steam turbine generator. Motion: After discussion of delays due to cleaning steam lines and lubrication procedures, Commissioner Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Greer to approve the change order in the amount of $23,475 as presented and recommended by Staff. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. A copy of the change order is on file in the Legal Department. Change Order #89-0012-04 - united McGill corporation - Contract #STE-89-0012 in the amount of $8,800 for additional testing as performed by Air Techniques under the supervision of united McGill Corporat:ion. United McGill Corporation provided air pollution control equipment compliance testing as a requirement of the operating permit. Initial testing performed in September 1991 was invalidated due to procedural and operational problems. Testing was rescheduled for December 11-14, 1991, and performed with minimal delays. As the need to retest was due partially to United McGill and New Hanover County, it was agreed that each would share one-half the cost of retesting ($6,200 each) and New Hanover County would be responsible for any delays caused by the County ($2,600). . Motion: After further discussion, Vice-Chairman Greer MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Sutton to approve the change order in the amount of $8,800 as presented and recommended by Staff. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. A copy of the change order is on file in the Legal Department. change Order #90-0008-02 - Forney International, Inc. - Contract #STE-90-0008 in the amount of $80,931 for additional field service work performed during the start-up of three boilers and associated equipment. Forney International, Inc. provided the Distributed Control System (instrumentation control) for plant operations. A portion of the requested funds is due to delays caused by the electrical contractor. A lengthy discussion was held on delays and the responsibility of the electrical contractor. . commissioner Sutton inquired as to whether the controls are hooked up and if the computers are operating properly? Director of Environmental Management, Ray Church, stated the computers are connected; however, they have not been operating automatically. Forney International, Inc. and Volund will fine tune the system and County technicians, which now have been trained, will be responsible for in-house control of the automated system. Emphasis was placed on the importance of decisions made by the crane operator in determining how to utilize the automated computer system based upon the types and mixtures of wastes versus temperature settings. . Commissioner Sutton inquired as to when all punch list items will be completed? Dr. Peters stated the punch list items will be completed by the end of March. Motion: After further discussion, Chairman Mathews MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Sutton to approve the change order in the amount of $80,931 as presented and recommended by Staff. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. ~ ( MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF MARCH 4, 1992 PAGE 84Q A copy of the change order is on file in the Legal Department. ADDITIONAL ITEMS - COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Adoption of Proclamation Designating the Week of March 8-14, 1992, as "Hire the Older Worker Week" in New Hanover County Motion: Commissioner Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Greer to adopt the proclamation designating the week of March 8-14, 1992, as "Hire The Older Worker Week" in New Hanover County. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. (j A copy of the proclamation is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XIX, Page 30. Approval of Temporary Construction Easement As Requested by DOT for 17th Street Improvements During Hospital Expansion project Motion: Commissioner Sutton MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Greer to grant DOT a temporary easement on 17th Street as requested. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. A copy of the easement is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XIX, Page 30. Request for Appointment of Representatives to Serve on Board of Education Task Force Chairman Mathews stated Rachel Freeman, Vice-Chairman of the Board of Education, is establishing a Task Force to determine an appropriate way to honor Dr. Hubert A. Eaton, Sr., and has requested the Board of Commissioners to appoint two members, one an elected official and the other from administrative staff, to serve on the committee. The first meeting is to be held on March 13, 1992, at 8:30 A.M. in the Dale K. Spencer Building. Consensus: After discussion, it was the consensus of the Board to direct the County Manager to solicit volunteers to serve on the Task Force and report back to Rachel Freeman. () Announcement of Public Hearing to be Held by Duplin County for Location of the N. C. Air cargo Airport Facility Chairman Mathews stated he has been requested to attend a Public Hearing for the possible location of the N. C. Air Cargo Airport facility in Duplin County and inquired as to whether the Board would like for him to comment on this issue. commissioner Retchin recommended meeting with members of the Chamber of Commerce, Committee of 100, New Hanover County Airport Authority and other community leaders to discuss this issue before supporting location of the facility in another county. Consensus: It was the consensus of the Board for Chairman Mathews to attend the Public Hearing in Duplin County with no commitment from the New Hanover County Board of Commissioners. Discussion of Fee Charged for Residential Yard Debris at the County Landfill Vice-Chairman Greer stated a citizen called with reference to demolishing a greenhouse and carrying debris to the landfill with a $7 fee charged per load; however, when carrying a load on another day, the citizen was charged a $35 fee due to a commercial license tag on his vehicle. He expressed concern for charging a commercial rate when a person is cleaning up their yard. . () Director of Environmental Management, Ray Church, stated some people do abuse the system, particularly with the increased fee; however, different weighmasters are on duty, and when seeing a person dumping with a commercial tag, the weighmaster will usually charge the commercial rate. He stated it is difficult to identify the difference between a residential carrier and a commercial ~ . . . ~ "" >, 2'1:'. ~~~ j~. MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF MARCH 4, 1992 PAGE 8:4"1 carrier when the vehicle is licensed with a commercial tag. As of this date, no satisfactory policy has been developed to resolve this problem. Mecklenburg County provides boxes at the Recycling Centers and no fee is charged for yard wastes or debris if the individual is willing to sort the wastes. Consensus: After further discussion of the problem, it was the consensus of the Board for the Director of Environmental Management to be as lenient as possible with fees charged to homeowners when bringing debris from their yards to the Landfill. Comments on the Legislative Briefing in Washington, D. C. Chairman Mathews stated the conference was most beneficial, particularly visits to the Department of Health & Human Services and the Department of Housing & Urban Development. Many counties are using innovative ways to reduce public assistance as well as provide programs for home ownership to low income persons. Further discussion will be held on these ideas. ADDITIONAL ITEMS - COUNTY MANAGER Reminder of Budget Work Session County Manager O'Neal reminded the Board of the Budget Work Session scheduled for March 9, 1992, at 1:00 P.M. in Room 501 of the New Hanover County Administration Building. ADJOURNMENT Motion: Commissioner Barfield MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Retchin to adjourn. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Chairman Mathews adjourned the meeting at 10:49 P.M. Respectfully submitted, ~F~~ Clerk to the Board ~