1989-02-20 Regular Meeting
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, FEBRUARY 20, 1989
ASSEMBLY
The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners met in Regular
Session on Monday, February 20, 1989, at 9:00 o'clock A.M. in the
General Assembly Room of the County Administration Building, 24
North Third Street, Wilmington, North Carolina.
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Members present were: Commissioners Jonathan Barfield, Sr.;
W. Albert Corbett, Jr.; E. L. Mathews, Jr.; Vice-Chairman, Nolan
O'Neal; Chairman, Fred Retchin; County Manager, G. Felix Cooper;
County Attorney, Robert W. Pope; and Clerk to the Board, Lucie F.
Harrell.
Chairman Retchin called the meeting to order.
INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Reverend Jesse Bone, Pastor of Trinity United Methodist
Church, gave the invocation.
County Attorney, Robert W. Pope, led the audience in the
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
NON-AGENDA ITEMS
Chairman Retchin asked if anyone from the general public
would like to speak on an item not listed on the Regular Agenda
or an item listed on the Consent Agenda. No one commented.
APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA
Commissioner Corbett asked to be excused from voting on Item
#10 on the Consent Agenda due to a conflict of interest. It was
the consensus of the Board to excuse Commissioner Corbett from
voting on Item #10 as requested.
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Commissioner
O'Neal to remove
Consent Agenda as
UNANIMOUSLY.
Barfield MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman
Item #10 and approve the remainder of the
presented. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
Commissioner Barfield MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman
O'Neal to approve Consent Agenda Item #10 accepting the
recommendations of the Tax Administrator for tax abatements and
refunds. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS:
Voting Aye: Commissioner Barfield
Commissioner Mathews
Vice-Chairman O'Neal
Chairman Retchin
Excused: Commissioner Corbett
A copy of the list of abatements and refunds is contained in
Exhibit Book XVII, Page 1.
CONSENT AGENDA
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Approval of Budget Amendment #89-0160 for Legislative Function in
Raleigh
The Commissioners adopted the following Budget Amendment to
cover costs of the legislative function scheduled for March 15,
1989, in Raleigh, North Carolina. Brunswick, Columbus, and
Pender counties have agreed to reimburse the County based upon
actual costs and percentage of populations.
89-0160 Non-Departmental/Administration,
Debit
Credit
Non-Departmental
Contingency
$15,000
Administration
Travel, Meetings and Schools
$15,000
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40mNUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, FEBRUARY 20, 1989 (CONTINUED)
Purpose: Transfer of funds for
Function. (Participating counties
following the event.)
total
will
cost of
reimburse
Legislative
the County
Approval of Budget Amendment #89-0161 to Cover Volunteer
Reception
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
89-0161 Non-Departmental
Debit
Credit
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Non-Departmental
Contingency
$4,600
Non-Departmental
Volunteer Recognition
$4,600
Purpose: Additional funding for Volunteer Reception scheduled
for April 30, 1989.
Approval of Budget Amendment #89-0164 to Allocate Additional
State Funds Received for Day Care - Department of Social Services
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
89-0164 Social Services/Child Day Care
Debit
Credit
Office of Day Care
$78,122
Day Care Services
$78,122
Purpose: To allocate additional funds received from the State
for Day Care.
Approval of Budget Amendment #89-0171 Reported by Budget Officer
for Entry Into the Record
The Commissioners accepted the report of the following
Budget Amendment as presented by the Budget Officer for entry
into the minutes:
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89-0171 Outside Agencies - Human Services
(Flow Thru Grants) Debit
Credit
Youth Restitution
$1,520
Youth Restitution
$1,520
Purpose: Budgeting additional funds received for Youth
Restitution Program which is administered by the Child Advocacy
Commission.
Approval of Budget Amendment #89-0173 as Reported by the Budget
Officer for Entry Into the Record
The Commissioners accepted the report of the following
Budget Amendment as presented by the Budget Officer for entry
into the minutes:
89-0173 New Hanover County Airport Customs Facility
Debit
Credit
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Airport Customs Facility
General Contract
Interest
$41,132
1,048
Airport Customs Facility
Engineering
Electrical
HVAC
Plumbing
$ 3,059
19,155
7,145
12,821
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, FEBRUARY 20, 1989 (CONTINUED)
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Purpose:
items in
Facility.
To transfer funds in the amount of $42,000
the amount of actual bids received for the
to line
Customs
Approval of Budget Amendment #89-0175 to Allocate Funds Received
from CP&L - Department of Social Services
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendment:
89-0175 Social Services/CP&L Project Share
Debit
Credit
DSS Administrative Grant
$31,967
Assistance Payments
$31,967
Purpose: To allocate funds received from CP&L for the Energy
Assistance Payments.
Adoption of Resolution to Add Unnamed Road to State Secondary
Road System
The Commissioners adopted a resolution adding an unnamed
road off to the right of Myrtle Garden Trailer Park (Division
File #585-N) to the State Secondary Road System.
A copy of the resolution is contained in Exhibit Book XVII,
Page 1.
Acceptance of Tax Collection Reports Thru January 31, 1989
The Commissioners accepted the New Hanover County Tax
Collection Report and New Hanover County Fire District Tax
Collection Report thru January 31, 1989.
Copies of the reports are contained in Exhibit Book XVII,
Page 1.
Release of 1978 Taxes Barred by G. S. 105-378
The Commissioners released the following 1978 taxes barred
by G. S. 105-378 as submitted by the Collector of Revenue:
New Hanover County
City of Wilmington
Wrightsville Beach
Carolina Beach
Kure Beach
$49,520.01
30,711,91
1,852.16
684.34
154.66
A list of individual accounts is available for review in the
Collector of Revenue's office.
Authorization for Advertisement of Tax Liens
The Commissioners authorized the Collector of Revenue to
advertise tax liens on real property for publication on March 11,
1989. The outstanding real estate taxes for 1988 are as follows:
New Hanover County
New Hanover County Fire District
City of Wilmington
Town of Wrightsville Beach
Town of Carolina Beach
Town of Kure Beach
Total - All Jurisdictions
$1,884,722.17
43,587.85
711,724.51
113,561. 28
148,647.53
22,419.52
$2,924,662.86
Budget Amendments Reported for Entry Into the Record
The Commissioners approved the following Budget Amendments
as requested by the Finance Officer.
89-0178 Resource Recovery
Debit
Credit
Landfill
Installment Loan Proceeds
$1,286,293
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4 (]I~ES OF REGULAR MEETING, FEBRUARY 20, 1989 (CONTINUED)
Budget Amendment (Continued)
Debit
Credit
Landfill
Transfer ,to other funds
(Fund 701 - Landfill Cell #3 Capital Project)
Landfill Cell #3
Operating transfers in
(Fund 700 Resource Recovery Fund)
$1,286,293
$1,286,293
Landfill Cell #3
Installment Loan Proceeds
$1,286,293
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Purpose: To correct Installment Loan Proceeds accounts in
Landfill and Landfill Cell #3 Funds.
89-0180 Management Information Systems
Debit
Credit
Management Information Systems
Installment Loan Proceeds
$162,640
Management Information Systems
Capital Outlay
$162,640
Purpose: To set up accounts for items purchased through
installment loans.
89-0179 - Airport
Debit
Credit
Airport
Installment Loan Proceeds
$10,816
Airport
Capital Outlay
$ 10,816
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Purpose: To set up accounts for leased vehicle. (For accounting
purposes only.)
89-0177 Administration
Debit
Credit
Administration
Installment Loan Proceeds
$11,688
Administration
Capital Outlay
$ 11,688
Purpose: To set up accounts for leased vehicle. (For accounting
purposes only.)
Approval of Cape Fear Community College's Request to Transfer
Funds
The Commissioners approved a request from Cape Fear
Community College to transfer funds for use of the unappropriated
fund balance for instructional salaries in order to make up a
shortfall.
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UPDATE ON IMPLEMENTATION OF NEW HANOVER COUNTY HUMAN SERVICES
TRANSPORTATION PLAN
Ms. Susan Dohrmann, Chairman of the New Hanover County
Transportation Plan, presented Articles of Incorporation and
By-Laws for New Hanover County Transportation Services, Inc., the
non-profit organization established to plan, set policy and
implement the New Hanover County Transportation Development Plan.
She stated the non-profit organization will have a Board of
Directors composed of representatives from agencies participating
in the coordinated transportation system, a County Commissioner,
and two at-large members appointed by the County Commissioners
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, FEBRUARY 20, 1989 ( CONTINUED)
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representing the handicapped/disabled population and over-age 60
population.
Ms. Dohrmann commented on developing arrangements for the
one-year transition system stating after clarification from the
North Carolina Department of Transportation this system can be
operated through interagency agreements which will alleviate
participating agencies from initially turning over titles to the
non-profit organization before anyone knows how the plan will
progress. She also commented on the immediate need for a
Transportation Coordinator position to implement the plan stating
the annual salary of the coordinator will be $20,000 which will
require funding of $5,000 for the remainder of the current fiscal
year. Ms. Dohrmann stated 50% match funds are available from the
State for funding of this position.
Commissioner Barfield stated he supports the plan; however,
an overall budget should be presented before approving County
funding for a Transportation Coordinator position.
County Manager Cooper stated the County Staff will prepare a
recommended budget and present a recommendation on the proposed
Transportation Coordinator position and its role within the
County Administration before final action is taken by the Board.
After further discussion, Vice-Chairman O'Neal MOVED,
SECONDED by Commissioner Corbett to direct the County Manager and
Personnel Director to review the position and pay classification
of the proposed Transportation Coordinator and recommend its role
within the structure of the County Administration. Upon vote,
the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Commissioner Barfield MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner
Corbett to appoint Commissioner E. L. Mathews, Jr. to serve on
the Board of Directors of New Hanover County Transportation
Services, Inc. and direct the Clerk to advertise for the two
at-large positions representing the handicapped/disabled
population and over-age 60 population. Upon vote, the MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Chairman Retchin expressed appreciation to Ms. Dohrmann for
an excellent job in preparation of the Transportation Development
Plan.
AUTHORIZATION FOR ESTABLISHMENT OF AD HOC DAY CARE TASK FORCE
Chairman Retchin stated the purpose of the Day Care Task
Force is to involve business, industry, and the private sector in
developing a plan to address child care needs in New Hanover
County. He presented the following goals:
1. To enlist the private sector, business and industry to
promote the benefits of employer-supported child care services.
2. To identify the barriers which inhibit the quality and
supply of child care and to explore the creation of both
financial and non-financial' incentives to overcome these
barriers.
3. To identify and promote effective means of educating the
public about benefits of quality child care.
4. To advocate for increased funding at the state and
national level of governments and to identify private resources
to ensure that affordable day care is available for all citizens.
5.
adequate
needs.
To ensure that citizens of New Hanover County have
information on child care options for their specific
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, FEBRUARY 20, 1989 ( CONTINUED)
6. To encourage child care providers to voluntarily meet
higher quality standards than those required by the minimal
licensing law.
The Task Force will prepare quarterly reports with a final
plan of action being presented at the end of twelve (12) months
or sooner if the task is completed. The committee will be
composed of twelve (12) members representing the following
categories:
2 day care providers
2 parents
2 community leaders
2 public officials
2 human service representatives
2 members at-large
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After discussion, Commissioner Corbett MOVED, SECONDED by
Vice-Chairman O'Neal to establish an Ad Hoc Day Care Task Force
composed of twelve (12) members as presented by Chairman Retchin.
Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
The Clerk was requested to advertise the vacancies in the
categories as listed.
PRESENTATION AND DISCUSSION OF 1988-89 ANTICIPATED FUNDING
SHORTFALLS FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
Director of the Department of Social Services, F. Wayne
Morris, presented an outline of the entire DSS Budget. He
discussed the following projected shortfalls for the current
year's budget stating these are estimates; however, the
Commissioners need to be aware of anticipated funding shortages.
1. Day Care will require $70,000 to maintain the current
level of services. On October 17, 1988, the Board of
Commissioners voted unanimously to appropriate up to $150,000 to
maintain day care; however, this figure has been reduced by the
receipt of additional State day care funds on January 30, 1989,
in the amount of $70,000.
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2. AFDC and the Foster Care and Adoption Assistance
Payments are mandated public assistance programs which will
require additional funding in the amount of approximately
$150,000. The current AFDC budget is approximately $50,000 below
last year's expenditures. Based on the first six months of
benefits provided to needy families, expenditures have increased
approximately 10% which will create a shortfall of approximately
$130,000. The remaining $20,000 will be required in the Foster
Care and Adoption Assistance Payments due to increased reports of
child abuse and child neglect.
3. Court ordered treatment of one teenager will require
additional funds in the amount of $30,000.
Director Morris stated to summarize the projected
shortfalls, additional funding will be needed in the amount of
$250,000 to provide the following services through June 30, 1989:
Total
$ 70,000
130,000
20,000
30,000
$250,000
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Day Care
AFDC
Foster Care & Adoption Assistance Payments
Court Ordered Treatment
Commissioner Corbett expressed concern for court ordered
treatment of one child in the amount of $30,000 with no state
funds provided for costs involved. He stated counties cannot
continue to pick up the burden of state mandated orders without
some form of reimbursement.
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, FEBRUARY 20, 1989 ( CONTINUED)
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County Manager Cooper stated the County Staff will review
the requests for additional funding as the shortfalls occur and
present recommendations and budget amendments to the Board as
needed.
Chairman Retchin expressed appreciation to Director Morris
for the presentation and information provided.
APPROVAL OF COUNTY FUNDING FOR DSS MANAGEMENT STUDY
Commissioner Corbett stated since no definite response has
been received from the State with reference to participating in
funding of the Management Study for the Department of Social
Services, he would like to recommend that the County fund the
study. He expressed concern for not having the study completed
in time to address budget issues.
County Manager Cooper stated the cost of the study is
approximately $52,000 and that he would check with the
consultant, Maximus, Inc., to see if the report can be prepared
in time to address administrative budgets.
After discussion of the importance of the study,
Commissioner Corbett MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Barfield for
New Hanover County to fund the Management Study for the
Department of Social Services and direct the County Manager to
instruct Maximus, Inc. to proceed immediately with the study.
Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
APPROVAL FOR LEASE OF PARKING LOT AT THE CORNER OF THIRD AND
MARKET STREETS TO CAPE FEAR COAST CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU
Commissioner Mathews, the County Commissioners'
representative on the Cape Fear Coast Convention and Visitors
Bureau (CVB), commented on the need to provide parking spaces for
tourists when visiting the center, and the need to enhance the
parking lot which has been an eyesore on this corner for years.
He recommended approval of leasing the parking lot to CVB and
accepting their plan as presented to upgrade the parking lot into
an aesthetically attractive site.
Commissioner Barfield asked if the County Commissioners will
have designated parking spaces. He commented on the
inconvenience of walking to the Courthouse in inclement weather
and recommended designating spaces on meeting dates.
County Manager Cooper stated designated days for use by the
County Commissioners could be negotiated when preparing the lease
agreement.
Ms. Joan Fogler, Chairman of the Cape Fear Coast Convention
and Visitors Bureau, commented on plans for the parking lot
emphasizing the importance of providing adequate parking for
visitors coming by the Bureau to obtain tourism information.
After further discussion, Commissioner Corbett MOVED,
SECONDED by Commissioner Mathews to approve the concept of a
lease and accept the site plan as presented. The County Manager
was directed to prepare a lease agreement for final approval by
the Board. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
STATUS REPORT BY OWNER OF MEDICAL TRANSPORTATION SPECIALIST, INC.
Ms. Babs Hubbard, owner of Medical Transportation
Specialist, Inc., presented a status report on the company,
stating the ownership of management has changed; however, the
same excellent quality of services is being provided. She stated
a new billing system has been instituted which has enabled
Medical Transportation Specialist, Inc. to forward all current
and back billings to the County.
commissioner Corbett questioned the change in management
stating when the franchise was awarded, the Commissioners were
qui te pleased wi th the ambulance experience and knowledge of
Thomas E. Wright and H. Douglas White who were thought to be the
owners of Medical Transportation Specialist, Inc.
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4 0 ~INUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, FEBRUARY 20, 1989 ( CONTINUED)
Ms. Hubbard stated she was majority owner of the company the
day Medical Transportation Specialist, Inc. went into business,
and the reason for moving to this area and becoming manager of
the company was to improve management and billing procedures.
She assured the Commissioners that the company is currently
rendering the same level of quality services to the citizens with
plans to improve this service by hiring additional technicians.
Vice-Chairman O'Neal commented on the responsibility of the
Commissioners to see that the level of services being provided
under the new ownership is adequate, and he recommended I,(]
requesting the County Manager to investigate the quality of
services being rendered and report back to the Board.
Commissioner Barfield
contract, readvertise for
accordingly.
stated he would rather cancel
proposals, and select a
the
firm
County Attorney Pope stated the contract is between New
Hanover County and Medical Transportation Specialist, Inc. as the
legal entity with whom the County has been performing business.
He stated in 1987 Medical Transportation Specialist, Inc. was
granted a franchise for a term of five (5) years with the
responsibility of the corporation to operate under the terms and
conditions of the County Ordinance and State law. The franchise
does not provide for termination other than for cause; however,
the contract executed between New Hanover County and Medical
Transportation Specialist, Inc. on December 15, 1988, does
provide for termination of the contract by either party upon 120
days written notice to the other party. He stated in order for
the County to terminate the franchise "cause" must be established
stating the County is dealing with the corporation, not the
individuals.
After further discussion, Commissioner 0' Neal MOVED,
SECONDED by Commissioner Corbett to direct the County Manager to
assign the County Staff and Legal Department to review the change
in management and monitor the level of services being rendered,
reporting back to the Board within thirty (30) days. The floor
was opened for discussion.
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County Manager
contract with the
recommended honoring
services rendered.
Cooper stated the County has executed a
corporation to deliver services. He
the terms of the contract and monitoring the
Commissioner Barfield requested investigation of the
situation by persons other than County Staff in order to receive
an objective report. He stressed the importance of checking into
this matter stating the individuals providing this type of
ambulance service should be qualified and experienced in this
line of work.
Mr. Thomas E. Wright, representing H. Douglas White and
himself, the founders of Medical Transportation Specialist, Inc.,
commented on the letter forwarded to the Commissioners explaining
circumstances that led to the change of ownership. He stated
when Ms. Hubbard decided to manage the corporation she dismissed
he and Mr. White for inept billing; however, he felt the real
reason for the dismissal was for discipline action taken against "':1,]'
certain employees which have been reinstated by Ms. Hubbard. Mr.
Wright stated the quality of service will decline based on the
fact that the new management has less than five years of
experience in the ambulance business, and due to the inept
ability of the employees that were rehired.
After further discussion, Chairman Retchin called for a vote
on the MOTION by Vice-Chairman O'Neal to direct the County
Manager and County Attorney to check into the situation and
monitor the level of services being rendered to the citizens of
the County. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS:
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, FEBRUARY 20, 1989 (CONTINUED)
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Voting Aye: Commissioner Corbett
Commissioner Mathews
Vice-Chairman O'Neal
Chairman Retchin
Voting Nay: Commissioner Barfield
County Manager Cooper expressed concern for developing a
method to monitor the level of services being rendered stating
services can be excellent one week and poor the next. He stated
an initial report will be prepared within thirty (30) days
identifying the level of services being provided in accordance
with the contract which will include the level of personnel,
equipment, organizational structure, billing, and the
coordination between Medical Transportation Specialist, Inc. and
the Finance Department. He also recommended continued monitoring
of services being rendered with reports being forwarded to the
Commissioners periodically.
DISCUSSION OF REQUEST TO APPROVE A NO-WAKE ZONE FOR A PORTION OF
MOORE'S INLET, WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH, NORTH CAROLINA
Mr. Phillip Andrews, representing the petitioner, Mr. M. J.
Andrews, presented a map and petition signed by property owners
requesting establishment of a No-Wake Zone for a portion of
Moore's Inlet. He commented on the importance of establishing a
No-Wake Zone since this portion of the inlet is a dead end and
has been experiencing severe wash problems. Mr. Andrews stated
the property owners are willing to assume the financial
responsibility which is the purchase of signs and pilings.
County Attorney Pope stated the following items must be
addressed before establishing a No-Wake Zone.
1. Check with the Town of Wrightsville Beach to see
wherein the boundary lies between Wrightsville
Beach's jurisdiction and New Hanover County's
jurisdiction.
2. Who will bear the costs of the markers and
maintenance of such markers after installation?
3. The County must give Public Notice that the County
is submitting application to the N. C. Wildlife
Commission for establishment of the No-Wake Zone.
After further discussion, Commissioner Corbett MOVED,
SECONDED by Commissioner Mathews to authorize the County Attorney
to initiate procedures with various agencies to establish a
No-Wake Zone in a portion of Moore's Inlet as presented. Upon
vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
A copy of the petition and map are contained in Exhibit Book
XVII, Page 1.
BREAK
Chairman Retchin recessed the meeting for a break from 10:50
o'clock A. M. to 11:07 o'clock A.M.
APPROVAL OF FUNDING REQUEST FOR LEGAL SERVICES OF THE LOWER CAPE
FEAR
Attorney Marcus W. Williams, Executive Director of Legal
Services of the Lower Cape Fear, presented a one-time funding
request in the amount of $15,000 for purchase of a computer. He
stated Legal Services provides free, comprehensive civil legal
assistance to the low-income residents of New Hanover County and
six other counties in Southeastern North Carolina. He commented
on the urgent need to install a computer system in order to
efficiently handle the present workload stating the current
equipment is beyond repair.
Commissioner Corbett asked if the other counties have been
approached for funding? Attorney Williams stated the surrounding
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4 (}:gnrrES OF REGULAR MEETING, FEBRUARY 20, 1989 ( CONTINUED)
counties will be approached; however, New Hanover County does
receive the largest share of funds available.
Discussion was held on approving a funding request before
the budgetary process. Commissioner Corbett recommended delaying
a decision and channelling this request through the normal budget
procedure.
Vice-Chairman 0' Neal expressed concern for the urgency of
the request stating people in need of legal assistance cannot
wait.
After discussion of this being a one-time funding request
and the immediate need for a computer system, Commissioner
Corbett MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Barfield to approve the
$15,000 funding request subject to the County Manager reviewing
the County's inventory to see if any equipment is available that
can be utilized by Legal Services. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
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AWARD OF BID TO SOUTHERN ROADBUILDERS FOR APRON PAVING PROJECT
1-B AT THE AIRPORT TERMINAL COMPLEX
Director of Engineering & Facilities, Ed Hilton, presented
background information on the bid award for the Airport Apron
Paving Project 1-B requesting the Commissioners to award the bid
to Southern Roadbuilders.
After discussion, Vice-Chairman 0' Neal MOVED, SECONDED by
Commissioner Barfield to award the bid to Southern Roadbuilders
and authorize the County Manager to execute the contract subject
to approval by the County Attorney and FAA. Upon vote, the
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
APPROVAL FOR INTRODUCTION OF LOCAL BILL FOR ESTABLISHMENT OF AN
AIRPORT AUTHORITY
Chairman Retchin stated the deadline for receiving local
bills to be introduced to the General Assembly is March 16, 1989;
therefore, he feels action should be taken at this meeting to
request our local legislators to introduce the local bill since
the Board will not meet again until March 13, 1989. Chairman
Retchin stated requesting introduction of the bill will only set
up the process for establishing an Airport Authority which will
not become effective until members have been appointed and
agreements executed for the lease of the property.
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Commissioner Corbett MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner E. L.
Mathews, Jr. to request our local legislators to introduce the
bill for passage by the General Assembly. Upon vote, the MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
A copy of the local bill is contained in Exhibit Book XVII,
Page 2.
JOINT MEETING SCHEDULED WITH AIRPORT COMMISSION
Chairman Retchin stated Mr. Jack Ashby, Chairman of the
Airport Commission, has requested scheduling a Work Session with
the County Commissioners for presentation and discussion of the
Airport Master Plan Study and Airport Authority Business Plan.
County Manager Cooper recommended scheduling a j oint Work
Session with the Airport Commission on March 13, 1989, at 4:00
P.M. stating the Budget Session could be delayed. He stressed
the importance of discussing airport issues.
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After discussion, it was the
schedule a joint Work Session with
Monday, March 13, 1989, at 4:00 P.M.
consensus of
the Airport
the Board
Commission
to
on
APPROVAL OF MERIT INCREASES FOR COUNTY MANAGER, COUNTY ATTORNEY,
AND CLERK TO THE BOARD
Chairman Retchin stated when the Board approved a cost of
living raise during Fiscal Year 1988-89, merit increases were
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, FEBRUARY 20, 1989 ( CONTINUED)
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limited to 2 1/2% for all eligible employees. He recommended
consideration of this point when approving increments for the
County Manager, County Attorney, and Clerk to the Board.
Discussion was held on car allowances. County Manager
Cooper stated he does not receive a car allowance but is
furnished a county car for business purposes with reimbursement
to the County for personal use. He stated the County Attorney
and Clerk to the Board receive a $50 per month car allowance.
Vice-Chairman O'Neal asked when was the County Manager's car
allowance included in his salary? County Manager Cooper stated
several years ago he did receive a car allowance; however,
adjustments were made by the Board a few years ago without
indicating what portion was salary or car allowance.
Vice-Chairman O'Neal stated for clarification everyone should
understand that when a car allowance is included in an overall
salary, the percentage of the merit increase also applies to the
car allowance which provides a larger increase.
Discussion was held on whether to approve merit increases
effective July 1, 1988, or January 1, 1989. County Manager
Cooper stated in 1987, merit increases granted to the County
Manager, County Attorney, and Clerk to the Board were effective
on the date of the evaluation instead of July 1, 1987, while
other department heads received merit increments effective July
1, 1987.
Commissioner Corbett MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Mathews
to approve 2 1/2% merit increases for the County Manager, County
Attorney, and Clerk to the Board effective January 1, 1989. The
floor was opened for discussion.
Commissioner O'Neal recommended that merit increases be
retroactive to July 1, 1988, since other department heads are
eligible to receive retroactive merit increases.
After further discussion, Chairman
on the motion to grant 2 1/2% merit
Manager, County Attorney, and Clerk
January 1, 1989. Upon vote, the MOTION
Retchin called for a vote
increases to the County
to the Board effective
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
APPROVAL OF GUIDELINES FOR PRESENTATION OF PLAQUES AND
CERTIFICATES
Clerk to the Board, Lucie F. Harrell, presented guidelines
for presentation of plaques and certificates. Samples of
certificates were displayed with a list of costs involved.
After discussion, Commissioner Mathews MOVED, SECONDED by
Commissioner Corbett to approve the guidelines as presented and
select the certificate prepared in-house by utilization of the
desk top publisher. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
A copy of the guidelines is contained in Exhibit Book XVII,
Page 2.
COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS
Appointments to the New Hanover County Human Services Allocation
Advisory Committee
Chairman Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman O'Neal to
appoint Iva D. Boslough and Julie B. MacAllister to fill the
unexpired terms of Henri L. Brown and Jeanette M. Johnston on the
New Hanover County Human Services Allocation Advisory Committee.
The terms will expire October 18, 1991. Upon vote, the MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Appointments to New Hanover County Industrial Facilities and
Pollution Control Financing Authority
Chairman Retchin nominated William H. Cameron, P. E.
Davenport, Jr., and Bruce E. Moskowitz to serve on the Industrial
Facilities and Pollution Control Financing Authority.
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41~ES OF REGULAR MEETING, FEBRUARY 20, 1989 (CONTINUED)
'Commissioner Mathews nominated Ernest J. Sewell, P. E.
Davenport, Jr., and W. Lee Williams to serve on the Industrial
Facilities and Pollution Control Financing Authority.
After discussion, Commissioner
Vice-Chairman O'Neal to appoint
Davenport, Jr., and W. Lee Williams
the New Hanover County Industrial
Control Financing Authority expiring
vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Ma thews MOVED, SECONDED by
Ernest J. Sewell, P. E.
to serve a six-year term on
Facilities and Pollution
February 22, 1995. Upon
Appointment of Vivian B. Skipper to Serve on the Nursing Home
Advisory Committee
Vice-Chairman O'Neal MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Mathews
to appoint Vivian B. Skipper to serve a three-year term on the
Nursing Home Advisory Committee. The term will expire April 1,
1992. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
o
Appointment of William H. Grathwol to Serve on New Hanover County
Planning Commission
Commissioner Mathews commented on the qualifications of
William H. Grathwol and MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman O'Neal
to appoint William H. Grathwol to fill the unexpired term of C.
Thomas DuVall. The term will expire July 31, 1990. Upon vote,
the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Reappointment of Alex McEachern Efird to Serve on Wilmington/New
Hanover County Port, Waterway & Beach Commission
Vice-Chairman O'Neal nominated Penny Craver to serve on the
Port, Waterway and Beach Commission stating she is highly
competent and qualified in this area.
Commissioner Corbett stated Ms. Craver is highly qualified;
however, after serving with Alex Efird on the Commission, he
feels Alex has served well and deserves to be reappointed.
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After discussion, Commissioner Corbett MOVED, SECONDED
Commissioner Mathews to reappoint Alex McEachern Efird to serve a
three-year term in the category of Terminals and Industry on the
Wilmington/New Hanover County Port, Waterway and Beach
Commission. The term will expire February 28, 1992.
After further discussion, it was the consensus of the Board
to consider appointing Penny Craver to serve on this commission
when the next vacancy occurs.
ADDITIONAL ITEMS - COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Discussion of North Carolina Association of County Commissioners
Legislative Briefing
Chairman Retchin stated the North Carolina Association of
County Commissioners Legislative Briefing will be held in
Raleigh, North Carolina, on April 13, 1989. He requested the
Commissioners to decide if they desire to host a dinner for the
local legislators.
After discussion of holding the Legislative Seafood Function
on March 15, 1989, it was the consensus of the Board to host
dinner for the local legislators at Legislative Briefings held
during the short sessions of the General Assembly, and to host
the Legislative Seafood Function during the long sessions of the
General Assembly.
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Discussion of Offer by New Hanover School System for Purchase of
Sunset Park Junior High School
Chairman Retchin stated the New Hanover School System has
offered the County an offer to purchase Sunset Park Junior High
School before appropriate disposal of the facility. Chairman
Retchin stated the City of Wilmington is interested in procuring
the property for possible use by their non-profit housing
organization.
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, FEBRUARY 20, 1989 ( CONTINUED)
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411 .,
Commissi ner Mathews nominated Ernest J. Sewell, P. E.
Davenport, Jr. and W. Lee Williams to serve on the Industrial
Facilities and ollution Control Financing Authority.
After disc ssion, Commissioner Mathews MOVED, SECONDED by
Vice-Chairman 0 Neal to appoint Ernest J. Sewell, P. E.
Davenport, Jr., nd W. Lee Williams to serve a six-year term on
the New Hanover County Industrial Facilities and Pollution
Control Financing Authority expiring February 22/ 1995. Upon
vote, the MOTION C RRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Appointment of Vi vi n B. Skipper to Serve on the Nursing Home
Advisory Committee
Vice-Chairman 0' eal MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Mathews
to appoint Vivian B. Skipper to serve a three-year term on the
Nursing Home Advisory Committee. The term will expire April 1/
1992. Upon vote, the M ION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Appointment of William Serve on New Hanover County
Planning Commission
Commissioner Mathew commented on the qualifications of
William H. Grathwol and VED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman O'Neal
to appoint William H. Grat wol to fill the unexpired term of C.
Thomas DuVall. The term w~}l e~re July 31, 1990. Upon vote,
the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUS~Y. ~
Reappointment of Alex MCEaCh\~ EfjLrd to Serve on Wi~ington/New
Hanover County Port, Waterway & Be~,Commission
Vice-Chairman O'Neal nomi ate~nny Craver to serve on the
Port, Waterway and Beach Commission stating she is highly
competent and qualified in this~rea.
Commissioner Corbett stated Ms. Craver is highly qualified;
however, after serving with Ale Efird on the Commission, he
feels Alex has served well and des~ves to be reappointed.
After discussion, commissionXr Corbett MOVED, SECONDED
Commissioner Mathews to reappoint Al x McEachern Efird to serve a
three-year term in the category of T rminals and Industry on the
Wilmington/New Hanover County P rt, Waterway and Beach
Commission. The term will expire Feb uary 28, 1992.
After further discussion, it was he consensus of the Board
to consider appointing Penny Craver to serve on this commission
when the next vacancy occurs.
ADDITIONAL ITEMS - COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Discussion of North Carolina Association \f County Commissioners
Legislative Briefing \
Chairman Retchin stated the North Ca."tolina Association of
County Commissioners Legislative Briefin will be held in
Raleigh, North Carolina, on April 13, 198. He requested the
Commissioners to decide if they desire to h st a dinner for the
local legislators.
After discussion of holding the Legislati e Seafood Function
on March 15 , 1989 , it was the consensus of the Board to hos t
dinner for the local legislators at Legislati~e Briefings held
during the short sessions of the General Asse bly / and to host
the Legislative Seafood Function during the Ion sessions of the
General Assembly. \
Discussion of Offer by New Hanover School System or Purchase of
Sunset Park Junior High School
Chairman Retchin stated the New Hanover School System has
offered the County an offer to purchase Sunset par~ Junior High
School before appropriate disposal of the facili tW. Chairman
Retchin stated the City of Wilmington is interested un procuring
the property for possible use by their non-profit housing
. . \
organlzatlon. \
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41M~UTES OF REGULAR MEETING, FEBRUARY 20, 1989 (CONTINUED)
County Manager Cooper stated if the County would like to
protect the property for the City, the County would have to
negotiate with the school system for purchase of the property.
He stated any funds derived from the sale of the facility do not
belong to the school system but must be applied to the debt
service of the County since New Hanover County funds schools. He
also recommended a contractual commitment for upkeep and
enhancement of the property from any party wishing to purchase
the property in order to avoid a deteriorated area.
Vice-Chairman 0' Neal commented on the possible use of this [j
property for a collection point to accommodate the recycling l .
program. He urged the Board to begin considering surplus
property sites for this purpose.
After further discussion, it was the consensus of the Board
to delay action on this request and direct the County Manager to
contact the City of Wilmington to appear before the Commissioners
with a presentation on the proposed use for the site.
Discussion of Proposed Joint Meeting With the City of Wilmington
Commissioner Corbett asked if another date has been
scheduled to meet jointly with the City of Wilmington for further
discussion of recommendations by City/County subcommittees.
Clerk to the Board, Lucie F. Harrell, stated the City was to
select an appropriate date for rescheduling a joint meeting after
their retreat in February; however, the office has not been
contacted.
It was the consensus of the Board for another meeting to be
scheduled at a date convenient to the Wilmington City Council.
Discussion of Third Party Review by R. W. Beck & Associates for
Financial Plan of the Steam Plant
Commissioner Corbett requested an update on the Third Party n
Review by R. W. Beck & Associates for the financial plan of the
Stearn Plant expansion. ,-
Director of Engineering & Facilities, Ed Hilton, stated R.
W. Beck & Associates have submitted a large number of requests
for information which has been furnished as of this week. He
complimented Dr. Stanton Peters for the many hours of work given
in furnishing this data stating the review should be completed
within the next thirty (30) days.
Status Report on Hiring of Solid Waste Planning Director
Commissioner Corbett requested an update on the status of
hiring a Solid Waste Planning Director. Director of Engineering
& Facilities, Ed Hilton, stated the last interview is scheduled
for Saturday; therefore, a decision will be made within the next
two weeks.
Award of Bid to Henry von Oesen for Performance of Survey Work at
the Steam Plant
Director of Engineering & Facilities, Ed Hilton, stated the
following bids received for performance of survey work at the
Steam Plant:
Henry von Oesen
Stuart Benson
Robert Goslee
McKim & Creed
Jack Stocks
$3,965
$4,000
$4,985
$5,377
$6,400
lJ
commissioner Barfield MOVED, SECONDED by commissioner
Corbett to award the low bid in the amount of $3,965 to Henry von
Oesen to perform survey work at the Steam Plant, and authorize
the County Manager to execute the contract. Upon vote, the
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
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'e-'
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, FEBRUARY 20, 1989 (CONTINUED)
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Scheduling of Appointments for Individual Pictures of County
conunissioners
Chairman Retchin reminded the Commissioners to schedule
appointments with Ed Browning Photography, located at 131 North
Front Street, for individual pictures to be made for use in the
County's Financial Report and at the Airport.
ADJOURNMENT
Vice-Chairman O'Neal MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Mathews
to adjourn. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Chairman Retchin adjourned the meeting at 12:31 o'clock P.M.
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Lucie F. Harrell
Clerk to the Board
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