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Home My WebLink About1989-02-20 Regular Meeting 3 9~9 " 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. I 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. I 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 I 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 ~ 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 n 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: r L_J 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 ~ 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 \ I I I MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, FEBRUARY 20, 1989 (CONTINUED) 4[J1 " 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 ~ 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 n 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 n 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. o 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 ~. - ~ .- ,~ >> ~ MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, FEBRUARY 20, 1989 ( CONTINUED) ,.., .</0..3 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 ~ (;0 "I 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 0: o 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. cr , --.J,. 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 G ~r;'" 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. I I I MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, FEBRUARY 20, 1989 ( CONTINUED) ~ 405 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. ~ 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. n 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: \ \ ~ I I I MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, FEBRUARY 20, 1989 (CONTINUED) 407 ~ 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 ~ 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. n 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. n 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. [J 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 \ ~ I I I, MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, FEBRUARY 20, 1989 ( CONTINUED) ,., :40.9 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. ~ 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. n ,-- 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. fl 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. \~ I I I MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, FEBRUARY 20, 1989 ( CONTINUED) \ \ 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. \ ~ 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. \ \ \ ~ /"..-"" -~ " ~.f' \.. ~", ~ II 'e-' MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, FEBRUARY 20, 1989 (CONTINUED) ~/.3 ~ 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. ~tf;; ~ Lucie F. Harrell Clerk to the Board ~