1988-10-17 Regular Meeting
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, OCTOBER 17, 1988
ASSEMBLY
The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners met in Regular
Session on Monday, October 17, 1988, at 9:00 o'clock A.M. in the
General Assembly Room of the New Hanover County Courthouse, 24
North Third Street, Wilmington, North Carolina.
Members present were: Commissioners Jonathan Barfield, Sr.;
W. Albert Corbett, Jr.; Robert G. Greer; Vice-Chairman Fred
Retchin; Chairman Nolan O'Neal; County Manager, G. Felix Cooper;
County Attorney, Robert W. Pope; and Clerk to the Board, Lucie F.
Harrell.
Chairman O'Neal called the meeting to order.
INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Reverend Duane Cook, Pastor of the Cape Fear Gospel Rescue
Mission, gave the invocation.
County Attorney, Robert W. Pope, led the audience in the
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
NON-AGENDA ITEMS
Chairman 0' Neal asked if anyone from the general public
would like to comment on an item not listed on the Regular Agenda
or an item listed on the Consent Agenda. The following item was
presented and discussed:
Proposed Revisions to New Hanover County Ordinance, Article VII,
"Regulations of Mechanical Work"
Mr. David Moore, representing the Cape Fear Heating and Air
Conditioning Contractors Association, presented proposed
revisions to Article VII of the New Hanover County Ordinance
pertaining to the journeymen's program. He requested the
Commissioners to review the proposed revisions and place this
item on a future agenda for further discussion and consideration.
After discussion, it was the consensus of the Board to
accept the proposed revisions for review by the Director of
Inspections and direct the County Manager to place this item on
the agenda for the first or second meeting in November.
APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA
Commissioner Corbett requested Item #11 be removed from the
Consent Agenda for discussion at the end of the meeting in order
to decide if a consultant is needed for design and inspection of
the water tank on U. S. Highway 421 when cleaning and repainting.
After discussion, Commissioner Corbett MOVED, SECONDED by
Commissioner Greer to remove Item #11 from the Consent Agenda and
approve the remainder of the Consent Agenda as presented. Upon
vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS
Approval of Amendment to Talbert-Cox Work Authorization 86-2 -
New Hanover County Airport
The Commissioners approved an amendment to Work
Authorization 86-2 in the amount of $4,470 for consulting
services provided by Talbert-Cox & Associates for design of
pavement repairs and special services for subsurface
investigations and engineering surveys for Run 16-34 pavement
repairs. The County Manager was authorized to execute the
document.
Designation of New Hanover County Department of Aging as Focal
Point on Aging for 1988-89
The Commissioners designated the New Hanover County
Department of Aging as Focal Point on ~ging for 1988-89 and
assigned the Aging Case Manager as requested.
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3 ~s OF REGULAR MEETING, OCTOBER 17, 1988 (CONTINUED)
Approval of Budget Amendment - Domestic Violence Shelter Services
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment to
accept pass through funds for the Domestic Violence grant. No
county funds are involved.
89-0066 Outside Agencies/Domestic Violence-Shelter Services
Debit
Credit
Outside Agencies/Flow Through Grants
Victim Assistance Grant $20,000
Outside Agencies/Domestic Violence/
Shelter & ,Services
Contributions to other Agencies/
Victim Assistance
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$20,000
Approval of Budget Amendment - Airport Apron Paving Project
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment to
set up the budget for the Airport Apron Paving Grant accepted by
the Board on September 18, 1988:
89-0063 Airport
Debit
Credit
Airport/Airside Construction
Federal Grant
State Grant
Transfer In (from Airport
Operating Funds)
$2,177,484
139,310
17,568
Airport/Improvement Project - 03
Transfer In (from Airport
Operating Funds)
1,182,432
Airport/Airside Construction
General Contract
Engineering
$2,062,231
272,131
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Airport/Improvement Project - 03
Contingency
1,182,432
Waiver of Tap Fee for Plumbing/Sewer Connection Assistance
Program
The Commissioners waived the tap fee for the County's
Plumbing/Sewer Connection Assistance Program for low-income
households. Contracts will stipulate that plumbing contractors
will comply with all regulations related to the plumbing and
sewer connections.
Approval of Amendments to New Hanover County Museum Board of
Trustees By-Laws
The Commissioners approved amendments to the New Hanover
County Museum Board of Trustees by-laws as presented. The
amendments provide for language consistency throughout the
by-laws and revise the committee structure to meet the needs of
the Museum and Board of Trustees.
A copy of the amendments is contained in Exhibit Book XVI,
Page 33.
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Reclassification of Home Health Public Nurse I Positions - New
Hanover County Health Department
The Commissioners approved the reclassification of positions
from Public Health Nurse I (Salary Grade 68) to Public Health
Nurse II (Salary Grade 70) as recommended by the Eastern Regional
Office of State Personnel.
Reclassification
Department
The Commissioners approved
Real Estate Officer (currently
of
Real
Estate
Position
Engineering
the reclassification of Assistant
vacant) to Assistant to Utility
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, OCTOBER 17, 1988 ( CONTINUED)
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Maintenance Supervisor at the same salary
additional funds required. The reclassification
the Engineering Department based on future
operation of the Sewer System.
range with no
was requested by
needs for the
Acceptance of Change Order Report #7 - Engineering Department
The Commissioners accepted Change Order Report #7 for the
period ending September 30, 1988, as presented by the Engineering
Department.
A copy of the report is contained in Exhibit Book XVI, Page
33.
waiver of Tip Fees for Destruction of Confidential Court Records
- Engineering Department
The Commissioners waived tip fees for destruction of court
records as requested by the Administrative Office of the Courts
contingent upon the release of witness responsibility and
coordination with the Steam Plant Operation.
Acceptance of Reports for New Hanover County Tax Collections
The Commissioners accepted reports as submitted by the
Collector of Revenue for Tax Collections through September 30,
1988, for New Hanover County and the New Hanover County Fire
District.
Copies of the reports are contained in Exhibit Book XVI,
Page 33.
Approval of Abatements and Refunds - Tax Department
The Commissioners approved the abatements and refunds as
submitted by the Tax Administrator.
A copy of the report is contained in Exhibit Book XVI, Page
33.
Approval of Delinquent Application to Exempt One Parcel of
Property for St. Stanislaus Church - R017-00-003-004-000
The Commissioners approved an application to exempt one
parcel of property inherited by St. Stanislaus Church for the tax
year 1988 since the property is not being used for religious
purposes or is not being used to derive income.
Exemptions
Assembly
Conference
Approval of Delinquent Application for Property Tax
and Release of Tax for Independent Baptist
(R050-07-002-006-001) and Advent Christian
(R079-11-001-001-000)
The Commissioners approved the following applications for
property tax exemptions for the year 1988 and released taxes as
recommended by the Tax Administrator:
Name
Independent Baptist Assembly
Advent Christian Conference
Amount of Tax Released
$139.65
$ 63.75
Release of Room Occupancy Tax Penalties
The Commissioners released the following room occupancy tax
penalties as recommended by the Collector of Revenue:
Name Amount
Century 21 Prime, Inc. (Acct. #1283)
Joe Priest Realty, Inc. (Acct. #0780)
Lexington Apts. (Acct. #0939)
of Tax Released
$313.56
$ 20.00
$470.84
Adoption of Resolution to Add Roads to the State Maintained
Secondary Road System
The Commissioners adopted a resolution to add the following
roads to the State Maintained Secondary Road System:
A portion of Musevale Drive and Manteo Court
in Sunpointe Subdivision (Div. File #594-NH)
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3 ~NUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, OCTOBER 17, 1988 ( CONTINUED)
A copy of the resolution is contained in Exhibit Book XVI,
Page 33.
Renewal of Contract with Attorney Louis K. Newton for Tax
Collections and Foreclosures - Legal Department
The Commissioners approved renewal of the contract with
Attorney Louis K. Newton for tax collections and foreclosures.
The contract will be renewed under the same terms as in the
existing contract.
Adoption of Resolution to Accept an Offer of Purchase for ~
Property OWned by the City of Wilmington and New Hanover County I I
The Commissioners adopted a resolution accepting an offer ~ J
from Queen C. Cokley and Daisy C. Williams to purchase the
following surplus property owned by the City of Wilmington and
New Hanover County. The property represents an ad valorem tax
value of $1,310 as of 1983.
Parcel Number
R04813-013-034.000
Address
705 N. 6th Street
Amount of Offer
$786.00
A copy of the resolution is contained in Exhibit Book XVI,
Page 33.
AUTHORIZATION TO PROCEED WITH CONCEPT OF EXPANDING THE NEW
HANOVER COUNTY JAIL
Sheriff Joe McQueen commented on the need to expand the New
Hanover County Jail stating overcrowding has occurred 35 times
out of the past 44 months. He stated in order to meet the
current and future jail needs, 120 new cells should be added to
the existing facility. Partial funding may be secured through
negotiations with the U. S. Marshal Service; however, in order to
secure the grant it will be necessary for the Commissioners to
approve the concept of expanding the jail and provide an estimate
of costs involved. Sheriff McQueen requested approval of the
concept with selection of an architect to design and provide a n
projected cost for expansion of the jail. lJ
Commissioner Corbett commented on a recent visit to the jail
expressing concern for housing of female DWI's along with other
convicted felons. He emphasized the importance of providing
safety for Law Enforcement Officers working in the jail,
particularly under overcrowded conditions. Commissioner Corbett
complimented Sheriff McQueen and the Jail Staff for operating an
efficient and well maintained facility.
After discussion on the need to expand the j ail and the
importance of obtaining state and federal funding for the
expansion, Commissioner Barfield MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner
Corbett to approve the concept of expanding the jail authorizing
the Sheriff to apply for a federal grant. Upon vote, the MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Discussion was held on the selection of an architect.
Vice-Chairman Retchin asked if the original plan for the Law
Enforcement Building included recommendations for expansion of
the jail. After discussion of consulting with the original
architect, Commissioner Barfield MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman
Retchin to direct the County Manager to consult with Ballard
McKim and Sawyer and report back to the Board with a
recommendation on the cost and feasibility of expanding the jail.
Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
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DISCUSSION OF FUNDING FOR DAY CARE SERVICES PROVIDED BY THE
DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
Ms. Julie Jackson, Supervisor of the Day Care Work Program,
discussed the Department of Social Services' operation of the
mandated Day Care Program for low income parents. She presented
figures comparing 1987-88 funding to 1988-89 funding stating if
additional funds are not received in the current fiscal year, the
remaining balance of $258,510 will allow the program to continue
for approximately four months. Figures were presented comparing
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, OCTOBER 17, 1988 ( CONTINUED)
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DSS assistance provided to a working mother receiving Day Care
benefits versus a non-working mother receiving DSS assistance as
follows:
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Working Mother Receiving
Day Care Services
4 Months Period of Time
Non-working Mother
Receiving DSS Benefits
4 Months Period of Time
$1,200
$3,500
Ms. Jackson commented on the benefits derived by providing
day care to working mothers such as breaking the cycle of
poverty, building self-esteem, and becoming a tax paying member
of the community. She stated children receiving day care are
provided a head start in life by building self-confidence, a
better retention capability when beginning school, reduction in
special education programs, reduction of delinquency, less
pregnancy, and increased lifetime earnings. She stressed the
importance of maintaining the present level of day care services
in New Hanover County and requested the Commissioners to join the
Board of Social Services in lobbying the State Legislators for
addi tional funds to continue this program through the current
year.
Discussion was held on Day Care funding. Commissioner
Corbett recommended encouraging employers to set up day care
programs asking if the Department of Social Services is promoting
this idea. Director of Social Services, Wayne Morris, stated a
Day Care Forum is being planned with presentations by a
representative from a fast food company in Raleigh who has hired
a Day Care Director, and a representative from a consortium in
Charlotte composed of private and public agencies working
together to address day care needs. He stated the Commissioners
will be informed of the date and are invited to attend.
Vice-Chairman Retchin commented on the recommendation of the
Budget Officer to maintain the level of service as provided last
year and MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Barfield to join the
Board of Social Services in lobbying for increased funding from
the state and federal government for provision of day care
services, and to go on record, as a Board, to commit to funding
this shortfall when and if it occurs. The floor was opened for
discussion.
Commissioner Barfield requested Vice-Chairman Retchin to
amend the motion to commit to funding not to exceed $150,000 (the
same amount funded last year) if a shortfall occurs.
Commissioner Greer stated day care is a sensitive issue
being discussed locally and nationally. He expressed concern for
the government funding day care recommending industries becoming
involved and supporting this program instead of government.
Ms. Jackson stated fast food industries and other businesses
of this type are not "non-profit companies" and do not receive
tax credits for providing day care programs; therefore, these
companies have no incentive to provide this service.
After discussion of involving businesses and the community
in meeting day care needs, Vice-Chairman Retchin amended his
original MOTION to state the Commissioners will attend the Day
Care Forum being planned by the Department of Social Services and
commit to funding not to exceed $150,000 when and if a shortfall
occurs in the DSS Day Care Program. The floor was opened for
discussion.
Commissioner Corbett stated -every member of the Board
understands the need for providing day care; however, the entire
community should be involved in addressing' this issue. He
recommended waiting on a funding decision until the Day Care
Forum has been held and businesses have had an opportunity to
become involved.
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30 ll.INUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, OCTOBER 17, 1988 ( CONTINUED)
Chairman O'Neal called for a vote on the AMENDED MOTION to
attend the Day Care Forum being sponsored by the Department of
Social Services and commit to funding the Day Care Program in an
amount not to exceed $150,000 when and if a shortfall occurs in
Fiscal Year 1988-89. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS:
Voting Aye: Commissioner Barfield
Commissioner Greer
Vice-Chairman Retchin
Chairman O'Neal
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Voting Nay: Commissioner Corbett
DEFERRED ACTION ON REQUEST TO RECLASSIFY TWO POSITIONS IN THE
CHILDREN'S PROTECTIVE SERVICES UNIT OF THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL
SERVICES
Director of Social Services, Wayne Morris, stated during the
year October 1, 1986, through September 30, 1987, the New Hanover
County Department of Social Services investigated 630 reports of
child abuse and child neglect. From October 1, 1987, through
September 28, 1988, the Department of Social Services
investigated 1,056 reports of child abuse representing a 68%
increase. He requested the Commissioners to consider
reclassification of the following unfilled positions in order to
strengthen the Children's Protective Services Unit:
Social Worker II (P.G. 66) to Social Worker III (P.G. 68)
Administrative Officer I (P.G. 67) to Social Worker III (P.G. 68)
Director Morris stated this is a mandated program and under
normal circumstances, he would request approval of two or three
positions; however, in view of the Management Review Study to be
performed, reclassification of the proposed positions would
provide enough staff to work in the Children's Protective Service
Unit until the study has been completed.
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Chairman 0' Neal stated the Budget Officer has recommended
deferring a decision on the reclassification request until the
Management Review Study has been completed.
After further discussion, Chairman O'Neal MOVED, SECONDED by
Commissioner Corbett to delay reclassifying the positions until
the Management Review Study has been performed. The floor was
opened for discussion.
Vice-Chairman Retchin made a SUBSTITUTE MOTION, SECONDED by
Commissioner Greer to accept the need as indicated by the
increase in reports of child abuse and child neglect and approve
the reclassifications as requested by the Director of Social
Services. Upon vote, the MOTION DID NOT CARRY AS FOLLOWS:
Voting Aye: Commissioner Greer
Vice-Chairman Retchin
Voting Nay: Commissioner Barfield
Commissioner Corbett
Chairman O'Neal
Chairman O'Neal called for a vote on the original MOTION to
defer reclassifying these positions until the Management Review li.J
Study has been performed. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS .
FOLLOWS: l_
Voting Aye: Commissioner Barfield
Commissioner Corbett
Chairman O'Neal
Voting Nay: Commissioner Greer
Vice-Chairman Retchin
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, OCTOBER 17, 1988 (CONTINUED)
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APPROVAL OF COUNTY FUNDING FOR MANAGEMENT REVIEW STUDY FOR
DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
Commissioner Corbett expressed concern for delay in
obtaining approval from the State to participate in funding the
Management Review Study and MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner
Barfield to approve County funding for the study if no response
has been received from the federal or state agencies within the
next thirty (30) days. The floor was opened for discussion.
Vice-Chairman Retchin and Commissioner Greer recommended
waiting for a longer period of time before committing to this
funding.
Commissioner Barfield stressed the importance of expediting
the study as quickly as possible in order to address needs of the
Department of Social Services.
Chairman O'Neal called for a vote on the MOTION to fund the
Management Review Study if no response is received within thirty
(30) days. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS:
Voting Aye: Commissioner Barfield
Commissioner Corbett
Chairman O'Neal
Voting Nay: Commissioner Greer
Vice-Chairman Retchin
RELEASE OF FUNDS FOR RECEIVING HOME DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL
SERVICES
Mr. William Hobbs, Chairman of the Board of Social Services,
introduced Ms. Alice von Oesen and Mr. Matt Mathews, members of
the Board, giving background information on the work of the
Junior League and Ms. von Oesen in determining the need for a
Receiving Home. He stated the Receiving Home is urgently needed
and will not be in competition with the YAHWEH Center.
Mr. Hobbs stated in May 1988 the Board of Social Services
requested funding for a Receiving Home at which time the
Commissioners allocated funds in the amount of $40,000 for FY
1988-89 with no funds being released until the Management Review
Study has been completed. He stated the Board of Social Services
and DSS Administrative Staff are not opposed to the Management
Review Study; however, they are concerned about deferring action
on important issues due to the study not being completed which
was originally scheduled to be performed in August, 1988.
Vice-Chairman Retchin commented on the need for a Receiving
Home with the dramatic increase in child abuse reports and MOVED,
SECONDED by Commissioner Greer to release the $40,000 already
budgeted for FY 1988-89 in order for the Department of Social
Services to proceed with establishing a Receiving Home. Upon
vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS:
Voting Aye: Commissioner Greer
Vice-Chairman Retchin
Chairman O'Neal
Voting Nay: Commissioner Barfield
Commissioner Corbett
**Vote later changed to unanimous vote as requested by
Commissioner Barfield and Commissioner Corbett.
PREVIOUS ACTION RESCINDED WITH ACTION TAKEN APPROVING
RECLASSIFICATION OF TWO POSITIONS IN THE CHILDREN'S PROTECTIVE
SERVICES UNIT OF THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
Mr. Hobbs requested the Commissioners to reconsider action
previously taken with reference to reclassifying the two
positions previously deferred.
Commissioner Barfield stated since
release funds for establishing a
a motion has passed to
Receiving Home before
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3 0 ~INUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, OCTOBER 17, ;Jt~'8.8. (CONTINUED)
performance of the study, the Board should reconsider
reclassification of the two positions requested. He stated, for
the record, since the Commissioners have granted all requests
before the study has been performed, he will no longer support
the performance or funding of the Management Review Study.
After further discussion, Vice-Chairman Retchin MOVED,
SECONDED by Commissioner Greer to rescind the previous MOTION to
defer reclassification of the two positions until the Management
Review Study has been completed and to approve the
reclassifications of two positions in the Children's Protective n
Services Unit as requested by the Department of Social Services. 'l
Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
**Commissioner Barfield and Commissioner Corbett requested
the Clerk to record the vote on establishing a Receiving Home as
a unanimous vote since the previous action has been taken.
Discussion was held on performing the Management Review
Study. Mr. Hobbs commented on the importance of the study to the
Department of Social Services and New Hanover County requesting
the Commissioners to proceed with the study. After further
discussion, it was the consensus of the Board to wait thirty (30)
days as previously acted upon at which time a final decision will
be made.
BREAK
Chairman O'Neal recessed the meeting for a break from 11:00
o'clock A.M. to 11:25 o'clock A.M.
APPROVAL OF FOUR NEW POSITIONS FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF MEDICARE
CATASTROPHIC COVERAGE ACT - DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
Ms. Elizabeth Schulz, Public Assistance Chief with the
Department of Social Services, gave background information on
implementation of the Medicare Catastrophic Coverage Act by
January 1, 1989. She stated approximately 900 Medicare 0
recipients in New Hanover County will be eligible for this new
coverage with inquires and applications having to be processed L
through the local Department of Social Services within the
court-ordered 45-day period. Failure to comply with this
deadline will deprive clients of rightful benefits as well as
expose the County to fiscal sanction. Ms. Schulz stated the
State has requested four (4) Income Maintenance Caseworker I
positions at Pay Grade 61 to meet this deadline at a cost of
$40,000 with a county match of 50% (or $20,000). She
respectfully requested approval of the new positions.
Discussion was held on the use of temporary personnel to
meet this workload. Ms. Schultz stated the use of temporary
personnel was considered; however, with the complexity of the
program and the constant rate of turnover among temporary
personnel, it was the consensus of staff that four permanent
positions are needed. She emphasized the importance of accuracy
in administering the program stating a mistake could cost
thousands of dollars.
Discussion was held on the recommendation by the County
Budget Officer to utilize temporary personnel and overtime pay to
meet the deadline since the Management Review Study has not been
performed.
After discussion of the complexity of the program along with
the federal mandate, Vice-Chairman Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by
Chairman O'Neal to approve the four Income Maintenance Caseworker
I positions as requested by the Department of Social Services.
Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
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APPROVAL OF AGREEMENT BETWEEN NEW HANOVER COUNTY AND AERONAUTICS,
INC. FOR RENOVATION AND USE OF OLD CONTROL TOWER AT AIRPORT
Assistant Airport Manager, Jack Nolan, presented the
agreement between the County and Aeronautics, Inc. for renovation
and use of the old control tower stating the Commissioners
approved the concept at the previous meeting with the request
that the final document be prepared by the Legal Department.
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEET~G, OCTOBER 17, 1988 ( CONTINUED)
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Commissioner Corbett requested an amendment to the note
requiring personal endorsements by Wilmington General Aviation
Industries, Inc.
Mr. William Cherry stated Aeronautics is owned by his father
Mr. Harry W. Cherry who is satisfied with the agreement as
presented; however, he did not feel his father would have a
problem with a personal endorsement. Mr. Cherry commented on the
importance of establishing a Customs facility at the Airport
stating as owner of Air Wilmington, he would be glad to endorse
the note to ensure payment to the County.
After further discussion, Commissioner Corbett MOVED,
SECONDED Commissioner Greer to authorize the Chairman to execute
the amended agreement which will require personal endorsements.
Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
APPROVAL OF AMENDMENTS TO THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY PERSONNEL POLICY
Ms. Mary Ann Walton, Personnel Analyst II, gave background
information on the following amendments to the New Hanover County
Personnel Policy stating the reason for the proposed changes is
to clarify the existing policy and ensure consistency in the
application of personnel policies:
1.
Amend Article III, Section 4(b) and (e)
the County's policy of granting salary step
based on meritorious performance.
to reflect
increases
2. Amend Article VII, Section 1, 12, 18, 27, 28 involving
leave time provisions. Amend Sections 19 and 32 to
enhance the benefits currently offered employees.
3. Amend Article VIII, Section 4, Grievance Procedures
to be consistent with Appeal Procedures and ensure
an efficient disposition of related matters.
4.
Amend Article
clarifying that
employer.
XI, Section 1 - to include the clause
New Hanover County is an "At-Will"
After discussion, Commissioner Corbett MOVED, SECONDED by
Vice-Chairman Retchin to approve amendments to the New Hanover
County Personnel Policy as presented. Upon vote, the MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
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APPROVAL OF RESOLUTION WAIVING REQUIREMENTS FOR BID BONDS ON
CERTAIN PURCHASES IN AMOUNTS LESS THAN $100,000
Commissioner Barfield MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner
Corbett to adopt the resolution waiving requirements for bid
bonds on purchases less than $100,000. Upon vote, the MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
A copy of the resolution is contained in Exhibit Book XVI,
Page 33.
DISCUSSION OF BUILDING EXPANSION COSTS FOR HEALTH AND MENTAL
HEALTH DEPARTMENTS
Director of Engineering & Facilities, Ed Hilton, stated
Synthesis was hired to develop plans and specifications for
expansion of the Health Department and Mental Health Center. The
design work has been completed with bids received above the
budgeted amount for both projects; however, the consultant has
received revised figures from the contractors reducing the cost
but not materially altering the project function or scope. The
revised plans have been reviewed and accepted by the Health
Director and Director of the Mental Health Center.
Director Hilton stated combining the projects would reduce
the shortfall for expansion of the Health Department from
$507,726 to $325,901.
Commissioner Corbett expressed concern for the architect not
being able to deliver figures at the estimated cost. Mr. Kent
Harmon, the architect, commented on changing the scope of the
project and the fact that a 5% contingency and inflation figure
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3 O~INUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, OCTOBER 17, 1988 ( CONTINUED)
'HAS not included in the preliminary figures when preparing the
budget.
Mr. Mel Martin, Director of the Mental Health Center, gave
background information on the proposed expansion commenting on
the closing of various institutions and the immediate need to
establish a Detox Center. He stated New Hanover Memorial
Hospital recognized this need at the beginning of the project and
agreed to loan $500,000 interest free to the Mental Health Center
with repayment over a period of ten (10) years. Once the project
begins, the hospital will transfer $500,000 to the County for (l
construction of the facility with the Mental Health Center being
responsible for repayment. Mr. Martin stated the Mental Health l_
Center has raised an additional $262,000 through negotiations
with State Mental Health officials out of which $40,300 has been
converted to the County to pay for consulting services leaving a
total of $722,000 for construction of the Detox Center. Mr.
Martin stated after meeting with the State Mental Health Regional
Director, he is optimistic that the $325,000 shortfall can be
raised to complete the funding.
Commissioner Barfield complimented Director Martin and the
Mental Health Board for raising the funds needed to construct a
Detox Center and encouraged the Commissioners to support this
project.
After discussion of the need for both expansions and money
saved by combining the projects, Commissioner Corbett MOVED,
SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Retchin to proceed with both projects
and award the revised contracts as submitted by the Director of
Engineering & Facilities. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
APPROVAL OF OFFICE SPACE LEASE BETWEEN NEW HANOVER COUNTY HEALTH
DEPARTMENT AND GLEN MEADE SHOPPING CENTER ASSOCIATES FOR
TEMPORARY RELOCATION OF HEALTH DEPARTMENT STAFF DURING 0
CONSTRUCTION
Commissioner Barfield MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-ChairmanJ
Retchin to approve the office space lease between the New Hanover
County Health Department and Glen Meade Shopping Center
Associates for temporary relocation of the Health Department
Staff during construction. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
MEETING RECESS FOR A REGULAR MEETING OF THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY
WATER AND SEWER DISTRICT
Commissioner Corbett MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman
Retchin to convene from Regular Session to hold a meeting of the
District Board of Commissioners of the New Hanover County Water
and Sewer District. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Chairman O'Neal convened from Regular Session at 12:23
o'clock P.M.
Commissioner Corbett MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman
Retchin to reconvene to Regular Session. Upon vote, the MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Chairman O'Neal reconvened to Regular Session at 12:59
o'clock P.M.
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APPROVAL OF CA-JARS AND CA-JARS/CICS COMPUTER SOFTWARE PACKAGES
FOR MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEMS
Mr. Steve Arrants, Director of Management Information
Systems, gave background information on the purchase of computer
software packages that will provide capability to allocate cost
back to the various user departments and analyze use of the
computer for future capacity planning. He requested the
Commissioners to approve purchase of the packages in the amount
of $19,110.
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, OCTOBER 17, 1988 (CONTINUED)
3Q9
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Vice-Chairman Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner
Corbett to approve purchase of the computer software packages as
requested. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
MEETING RECESSED FOR LUNCH
Chairman 0' Neal recessed the meeting for lunch from 1: 10
o'clock P.M. to 1:40 o'clock P.M.
COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS
Appointment of Members to Serve on the Human Services Allocation
Advisory Committee
Chairman O'Neal MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman Retchin to
appoint the following persons to serve on the Human Services
Allocation Advisory Committee:
Name
Term
Expiration of Term
Paul D. Campbell
Phyllis V. Roebuck
Henri Lynn Brown
G. Geoffrey Moore
LeRoy D. Marshburn, Jr.
Jeanette M. Johnston
First
First
First
First
First
First
10/18/91
10/18/91
10/18/91
10/18/91
10/18/91
10/18/91
Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Reappointment of Jack Bragg and Appointment of Marsha R. Harris
and Nello Filippini to Serve on the New Hanover County Zoning
Board of Adjustment
Commissioner Corbett MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman
Retchin to reappoint Jack Bragg to serve a three-year term on the
New Hanover County Zoning Board of Adjustment. The term will
expire November 15, 1991. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
Vice-Chairman Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner
Corbett to appoint Marsha R. Harris, an Alternate Member of the
New Hanover County Zoning Board of Adjustment, to fill the
unexpired term of Carlton Plott. The term will expire November
15, 1990. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Commissioner Barfield MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman
R.etchin to appoint Nello Filippini to serve as an Alternate
Member of the New Hanover County Zoning Board of Adjustment. The
term will expire November 15, 1990. Upon vote, the MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
DISCUSSION OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEM #11, ENGINEERING CONTRACT FOR
DESIGN AND INSPECTION SERVICES OF ELEVATED WATER TANK ON U. S.
HIGHWAY 421
Commissioner Corbett stated the reason for removing this
item from the Consent Agenda was for further discussion and
clarification as to why the County should hire a consultant to
perform this work.
County Engineer, Wyatt Blanchard, stated the County can
perform the specifications, but does not have the personnel or
equipment to climb and inspect the tank.
Vice-Chairman Retchin recommended contracting to clean and
paint the tank without inspection.
After further discussion, Commissioner Corbett MOVED,
SECONDED by commissioner Greer to contract to clean and paint the
tank without inspection. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
.AMENDMENT TO NEW HANOVER COUNTY WATER AND SEWER ORDINANCE,
SECTION 15-122(c), METER INSTALLATION AND BILLING
Mr. Bill Dobo, owner of Cape Fear Utilities, commented on
the County's ordinance requiring installation of a single 6-inch
meter in multi-family complexes. He listed the following
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31 ~ES OF REGULAR MEETING, OCTOBER 17, 1988 (CONTINUED)
disadvantages of this requirement to customers being served by a
public utility company:
1.
When flushing lines, all
the single meter with
the cost.
water passes through
customers absorbing
2. When fire hydrants are used, Cape Fear Utilities
has to absorb the cost, which in turn is charged
to the customer, due to no method of separating
the use of water.
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3. Without individual meters, all customers served by
Cape Fear Utilities absorb an increased rate since
the State Utilities Commission adjusts rates
according to the individual customer with a minimum
on each meter. One group pays the minimum rate
with the remaining customers paying higher rates to
compensate for the slack.
Mr. Dobo stated in order to adjust rates for Bradley View
Subdivision, he would have to appear before the N. C. State
Public Utilities Commission and request a rate hearing for his
company's tariff which would involved a period of time from 60
days to one year depending on the Commission I s workload. He
stated the utility system in Bradley View Subdivision is complete
with individual meters installed; however, if he is required to
install a single meter, which he has just learned about, a state
licensed engineer would have to be hired, modifications drawn,
approval obtained from the Sanitary Board of Health, and line
changes which will require digging up of asphalt and curbing in
the subdivision. Mr. Dobo requested the Commissioners to amend
the Water and Sewer Ordinance which requires installation of a
single meter in multi-family complexes.
Vice-Chairman Retchin requested the County Engineer to
explain the reason for this requirement as stated in the
ordinance. County Engineer Blanchard, stated this requirement
was placed in the ordinance to avoid reading meters and billing
for multi-family apartment complexes, particularly rental units.
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After discussion of the difference between individually
owned units and rental units, Vice-Chairman Retchin MOVED,
SECONDED by Commissioner Barfield to amend the present Water and
Sewer Ordinance, Section 15-122(c) by adding the following
statement to the last sentence: "which are not individually
owned". Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
A copy of the amended ordinance is on file in the Clerk's
office for codification into the New Hanover County Code.
RATIFICATION OF RATE INCREASE FOR CAPE FEAR UTILITIES AS APPROVED
BY THE DISTRICT COMMISSIONERS OF THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY WATER AND
SEWER DISTRICT
Commissioner Barfield MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner
Corbett to ratify approval of the rate increase to Cape Fear
Utilities from $.87/1,000 gallons to $1.15/1,000 gallons for
transport and treatment of wastewater at the Souths ide Treatment
Plant. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
ADDITIONAL ITEMS - COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
o
Status of Zoning Text Amendment for Operation of Recycling Points
Throughout the County ".
Commissioner Corbett stated while making a presentation on
the bond referendum for expansion of the Steam Plant, members of
the Sierra Club had questioned the status of the recycling plant
located on Paraham Road asking if a Zoning Text Amendment had
been prepared to allow location of recycling points throughout
the County. He stated the Planning Staff and Planning Board are
in the process of preparing the Text Amendment and requested the
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, OCTOBER 17, 1988 (CONTINUED)
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County Manager to place this item on the agenda for the first
meeting in December, if possible.
Discussion of Variance to No Smoking Policy for the Judicial and
Annex Buildings
Commissioner Corbett commented on the letter written by the
County Manager to Judge Napoleon B. Barefoot extending smoking
rights to the Clerk of Court and Magistrate of Small Claims Court
stating the Commissioners voted to allow judges to smoke in their
chambers but did not extend this privilege to other offices. He
requested the County Manager to clarify the issue.
County Manager Cooper stated since he is authorized to issue
variances to the No Smoking Policy he felt it was unfair to allow
smoking in the Judges chambers and limit smoking in other
offices.
Discussion was held on ventilation systems and exhaust fans.
Mr. Carl Durham, a resident of the County and former member of
the Board of Health, commented on the danger of smoke inhalation
to non-smokers emphasizing the importance of enforcing the No
Smoking Policy in all County buildings.
Discussion was held on designated smoking areas in County
buildings, and the unpleasant appearance of employees smoking
outside of County buildings. County Manager Cooper stated
unfortunately space is not available in County buildings to
designate smoking areas; therefore, there are no easy answers.
After further discussion, it was the consensus of the Board to
leave the No Smoking Policy as enacted and to request the County
Manager to handle the variance presented by employees at the
County Garage.
Report of Joint City/County Stormwater Management Subcommittee
Commissioner Greer commented on the first meeting of the
Stormwater Management Subcommittee stating it was an informative
session and interesting to learn what the City and County are now
doing to address this importance issue.
ADDITIONAL ITEMS - COUNTY MANAGER
SCHEDULING OF JOINT MEETING WITH AIRPORT COMMISSION
County Manager Cooper stated a joint meeting has been
scheduled for Monday, November 14, 1988, at 8:30 o'clock A.M. to
discuss funding alternatives for completion of the Airport
Terminal.
Commissioner Corbett stated he may be out-of-town and asked
if the date could be changed. After further discussion, it was
the consensus of the Board to schedule the meeting as planned.
ADJOURNMENT
Commissioner Barfield MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman
Retchin to adjourn. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Chairman O'Neal adjourned the meeting at 2:25 o'clock P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
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Lucie F. Harrell
Clerk to the Board
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