1987-11-02 Regular Meeting
78
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, NOVEMBER 2, 1987
ASSEMBLY
The New Hanover County Board of Corrunissioners met in
Regular Session on Monday, November 2, 1987, at 5:00 o'clock
P.M. in the Assembly Room of the County Administration
Building, 320 Chestnut Street, Wilmington, North Carolina.
Members present were: Corrunissioners W. Albert Corbett,
Jr.; Fred Retchin; Vice-Chairman, John Dolan; Chairman,
Nolan O'Neal; County Manager, G. Felix Cooper; County
Attorney, Robert W. Pope; and Clerk to the Board, Lucie F.
Harrell.
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Corrunissioner Jonathan Barfield, Sr. arrived at 5: 10
o'clock P.M.
JOINT MEETING WITH NEW HANOVER MEMORIAL HOSPITAL BOARD OF
TRUSTEES
Chairman O'Neal welcomed the Hospital Board of Trustees
stating the purpose of the joint meeting was to discuss the
overall financial condition of New Hanover Memorial
Hospital. He introduced Mr. James M. Parker, Chairman of
the Hospital Board.
Mr. Parker expressed appreciation to the Corrunissioners
for the opportunity to discuss the overall financial
condi tion of the hospital and address issues such as the
recent overall rate increase and the much discussed, but
seldom understood, cash reserves maintained by the hospital.
He introduced the following Hospital Board Trustees asking
each member to stand:
Mr. Peter R. Davis; Mr. F. P. Fensel, Sr.; Dr. I. A.
Roseman, D.S.S.; corrunissioner Nolan O'Neal; Ms. Linda
Pearce; Dr. James B. Sloan; Mr. J. W. Surruney, III; Mr.
William H. Sutton; Mr. Earl Swinson; Mrs. Elizabeth Teachey;
Reverend W. Prince Vaughn; Dr. Norman Robinson, M. D.; Mr.
Michael G. Haas; Mr. H. J. Quinn; and Dr. Kenny Morris.
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Presentation of Medical Perspective of the New Hanover
Memorial Hospital Budget
Dr. Lucien Wilkins, irrunediate Past Chief of Staff,
corrunented on the medical perspective of the hospital bUdget
stating the budget is the tool used to provide the excellent
health care that is now available and affordable to all in
New Hanover County. He stated room rates are well in line
with comparable hospitals, the reserve funds are well within
industry guidelines, and hospital services are available to
all. He also emphasized the fact that New Hanover Memorial
Hospital expended $6,000,000 of free care in 1987.
Dr. Wilkins corrunented on two disturbing trends that
have developed in the eighties: ( 1) hospitals are failing
and closing; and (2) entrepreneur ism , in the interest of
economics, is shutting down unprofitable services in spite
of medical need for these services. He stated when budget
cuts occur, the first to suffer are the poor, the uninsured,
the underinsured, infants, the elderly and the helpless. He
emphasized the importance of a healthy budget which will
allow New Hanover Memorial Hospital to prepare for future
challenges without additional taxation or issuance of costly
revenue bonds.
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Presentation of New Hanover Memorial Hospital Budget
Mr. Earl Swinson corrunented on the budgetary process.
He stated the annual budget is based upon the needs of
southeastern North Carolina as identified by department
heads, administrative staff, medical staff and the Hospital
Board of Trustees. He stated department heads and medical
staff estimate the number and types of services to be
offered to patients during the coming year with
identification of equipment, personnel, and supplies needed
to provide these services. Salary scales are evaluated
against surveys of wages paid by local industry for certain
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, NOVEMBER 2, 1987 (CONTINUED)
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jobs and by hospitals that recruit in the same markets. The
Medical Staff Equipment Evaluation Corrunittee establishes
priorities for the purchase of medical equipment based on
patient needs, condition of existing equipment, and
availability of funds.
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Mr. Swinson stated the impact of above mentioned
expenditures on the reserves of the hospital is determined
and then a required net operating margin is calculated to
meet operating capital needs and to maintain appropriate
reserves. Price changes, if any, are made, at this time.
He stated in order to meet capital needs and maintain
appropriate reserves for Fiscal Year 1987/88 charges were
increased overall by an average of 10.4%. Mr. Swinson
stated the new charges have been approved by Blue Cross Blue
Shield of North Carolina and stressed the importance of
providing a sound budget to maintain the high quality of
service now provided to citizens of our County and
surrounding counties.
Discussion of Cash Reserve position
Mr. James Parker stated in order to determine whether
the hospital's cash reserves are appropriate, the Accounting
Firm of Ernst and Whinney were hired to review the reserve
position and presented the following evaluation:
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"The results of the analysis of the reserve position
indicate that New Hanover Memorial Hospital is in sound
financial position, but its depreciation funds are
approximately two million dollars below the level suggested
by the methodology. In addition, its funds for future
development are approximately five million dollars below a
level that would be sufficient. The combination of the
depreciation deficit and the future funds deficit would mean
that the Hospital is approximately six to seven million
dollars below the recorrunended reserve position. While this
deficit in reserve position may not impair the hospital, it
will hinder the future ability to provide needed capital for
additions and replacements.
The operating reserves should equal 60 days cash
expenses ($181,000 per day in 1987-88 x 60). The amount
expected to be available for this purpose at September 30,
1988, is $6.1 million as compared with the stated need of
$10.8 million."
Mr. Parker stated with a plan to slightly add to
reserves this fiscal year, the hospital will only have
approximately 55 days of operating expenses on hand as of
September 30, 1988. He corrunented on the daily operational
cost of $181,000 emphasizing the importance of providing
sound, fiscal pOlicy that will allow New Hanover Memorial
Hospital to continue to provide the quality of service now
given to the citizens of our County.
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Discussion of Services Provided by New Hanover Memorial
Hospital
Mr. Peter R. Davis corrunented on expansion of services
now provided by the hospital such as the cardiac
catheterization and cardiac surgery unit, trauma service,
preventive medicine, and the psychiatric center stating New
Hanover County has a first-class hospital facility. He
stressed the importance of maintaining and providing
long-range budgeting and planning that will allow the
hospital to continue to grow and expand services.
Vice-Chairman Dolan stated New Hanover Memorial
Hospital does administer an excellent quality of care;
however, the question to be answered is whether or not an
overall increase was absolutely necessary. Discussion was
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, NOVEMBER 2, 1987 (CONTINUED)
held on revenues generated, expenditures, and cash reserves.
Vice-Chairman Dolan requested figures of projected revenues
for the coming fiscal year. Mr. Frank Pritchett, Finance
Director of the Hospital, stated projected net collectable
revenues will be $73,238,000 with projected operating
expenses of $69,567,000 with a projected growth in cash
reserves of $1,200,000 due to funds corrunitted to major
projects and a drop in interest rates.
Vice-Chairman Dolan corrunented on expansion of services
stating he thought these projects were profitable ventures
and should generate additional revenue. Mr. pritchett
stated many of the new services are break-even projects,
such as cardiac catheterization and open heart surgery which
should break even this year. He corrunented on start-up costs
of these projects and the period of time involved before
they become profit making ventures.
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Vice-Chairman Dolan asked if overall fees had not been
increased, what revenues would have been generated as
opposed to the expected operating expenses. Mr. Pritchett
stated the hospital would have suffered an operating loss of
approximately $142,000, which represents the working
capital, and would have been deducted directly from cash
reserves.
Discussion was held on indigent care. Mr. Pritchett
stated this figure is currently running from 4-6 million
dollars per year, and pointed out that charges for all
services must be the same for every patient, whether they
can or cannot pay.
Corrunissioner Corbett corrunented on the increase in
supplies asking if inventory was on a computerized system.
Mr. Pritchett stated supplies have increased due to needs
for the cardiac catheterization unit. He stated the hospital
does not presently have computerized inventory control but
maintains a central supply system.
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Vice-Chairman Dolan corrunented on reimbursement from
Medicare and Medicaid stating two years ago, it was
predicted by the hospital that these reimbursements would be
drastically reduced, but instead the program was not cut and
the hopsital benefited greatly. He asked why should we
believe the program will be cut now or in the future. Mr.
Pritchett corrunented on the DRG Prospective Payment System
instituted by Medicare in 1983 stating the hospital does not
know what reimbursements will be for a given year until
several months after the year begins. He stated as of now,
the hospital does not know what reimbursements will be for
services rendered in october 1987, and will not know until
the the Budget Reconciliation package is passed by Congress
or the Grarrun-Rudman provisions are instituted on November
20, 1987. He corrunented on a massive shifting of money from
a high cost hospital to a low cost hospital in the Medicare
Program for the years 1983 and 1984 stating as a low cost
hospital, New Hanover Memorial Hospital did benefit.
However, other adjustments were made in 1985 and 1986 which
changed the formula for a conversion of the national payment
rate to fit the "local" situation which will create a 4%
loss of cash income to New Hanover Memorial Hospital
effective october 1, 1987, unless other adjustments are
enacted in the Budget Reconciliation Act.
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Vice-Chairman Dolan corrunented on the recently enacted
comprehensive catastrophic illness program under Medicare
asking if this program would have a direct impact on the
hospital. Mr. Pritchett stated the impact would be minimal
because the difference between costs and services provided
is not collectable from the patient.
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, NOVEMBER 2, 1987 (CONTINUED)
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He stated catastrophic coverage
costs of physical care,
pharmaceuticals.
is primarily to cover
outpatient care,
the
and
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Corrunissioner Barfield asked if the hospital
administration presented quarterly or semi-annual budget
reports to the Hospital Board of Trustees. Mr. Pritchett
stated a monthly financial statement, which includes a
Statement of Operations and Balance Sheet, and a quarterly
report reflecting Medicare figures are forwarded to the
Board of Trustees. After discussion, corrunissioner Corbett
requested Mr. Pritchett to furnish the corrunissioners copies
of the monthly and quarterly financial statements.
Mr. Pritchett, in closing, stated services provided by
the hospital are not predicated upon making money, but on
breaking even in order to sustain themselves.
vice-Chairman Dolan corrunented on the importance of
informing the public when needs arise that will necessitate
an overall increase stating the public feels they have no
way to corrununicate with the Board of Trustees. He
recorrunended a more aggressive public relations policy when
addressing future increases, and thanked the Hospital Board
of Trustees and Hospital Administration for a very
informative report.
Chairman O'Neal asked if anyone from the general public
wished to corrunent. The following person corrunented:
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Ms. Sylvia Rountree expressed concern for a statement
by Vice-Chairman Dolan printed in the newspaper which
stated, "no one on the Board of Trustees cares anything
about the average person," stating she felt corrunents of this
type promote a poor and negative image of the hospital in
the eyes of the general public.
Vice-Chairman Dolan stated his purpose in corrunenting on
the overall increase of fees was to promote a method,
whether in a joint meeting as being held today or by some
other means, which would properly inform and explain to the
public and Board of Corrunissioners the reasons that
necessitated an overall increase. He stated he had no
intention of presenting a poor image of the hospital to the
general public, but that he did feel the public should be
better informed.
corrunissioner Corbett complimented the Board of Trustees
and Hospital Administration for an excellent presentation
and recorrunended scheduling a joint meeting at least once or
twice a year.
corrunissioner Retchin expressed appreciation to the
current and previous Boards of Trustees and to the Hospital
Administration for providing excellent leadership through
the years in developing a first rate hospital facility.
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Chairman O'Neal expressed appreciation to the Board of
Trustees for attending the meeting and thanked each member
for the many hours of time given in serving on this board.
Mr. Parker, on behalf of the Board of Trustees,
expressed appreciation to the Corrunissioners for an
opportunity to present a financial overview of the hospital.
He complimented Chairman O'Neal for his outstanding work as
a Hospital Trustee.
MEETING RECESSED FOR DINNER
Chairman O'Neal recessed the meeting for dinner from
6:15 o'clock P.M. to 7:00 o'clock P.M.
CONTINUANCE OF REGULAR MEETING
Chairman O'Neal called the meeting order.
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, NOVEMBER 2, 1987 (CONTINUED)
Reverend Wayne Spangenberg, Pastor of Seventh-day
Adventist Church, gave the invocation.
ADOPTION OF PROCLAMATION DESIGNATING THE WEEK OF NOVEMBER
15-21, 1987 AS GEOGRAPHY AWARENESS WEEK
Corrunissioner Corbett MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman
Dolan to adopt a proclamation designating the week of
November 15-21, 1987, as Geography Awareness Week in New
Hanover County. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Chairman O'Neal, on behalf of the Board, presented the
proclamation to Ms. Richelle R. Bragg and students of her
8th Grade Civics Class from Willison Junior High School. He
complimented Ms. Bragg for her interest shown in geography
and for being selected as one of five teachers from North
Carolina to attend the National Geographic's Surruner
Geography Institute.
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A copy of the proclamation is contained in Exhibit Book
XV, Page 42.
NON-AGENDA ITEMS
Chairman O'Neal asked if anyone present wished to speak
on an item not listed on the Regular Agenda or an item
listed on the Consent Agenda. No one corrunented.
CONTINUANCE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER A SPECIAL USE
PERMIT TO LOCATE A CONVENIENCE FOOD STORE AT THE NORTHWEST
CORNER OF U. S. 421 AND SILVA TERRA DRIVE
Mr. George Rountree, Attorney representing the
petitioner, McCauley and McDonald Investments, respectfully
requested continuance of this Public Hearing in order to
perform additional title work.
Corrunissioner Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman
Dolan to continue the Public Hearing to consider a Special
Use Permit to locate a Convenience Food Store at the
Northwest Corner of U. S. 421 and Silva Terra Drive until
December 7, 1987, as requested by Attorney Rountree. Upon
vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
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PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER AN APPEAL OF THE PLANNING BOARD'S
DENIAL TO REZONE 73.5 ACRES AT THE NORTHEAST, NORTHWEST AND
SOUTHWEST CORNERS OF EASTWOOD ROAD AND MILITARY CUTOFF TO A
PLANNED DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT (COMMERCIAL, OFFICE AND
INSTITUTIONAL) FROM R-15 RESIDENTIAL - LANDFALL ASSOCIATES
Chairman O'Neal opened the Public Hearing.
Planning Director Hayes gave background information on
the appeal stating the Planning Board denied the request to
expand the Planned Development District boundary due to the
following reasons:
1. corrunercial uses of Planned Development districts
were designed to serve the residential portion of
the district itself. The Planning Board argued
the proposed uses exceeded this neighborhood
service level and entered into the realm of
regional corrunercialism.
2. The Planning Board felt Military Cutoff Road
should serve as the property perimeter boundary for
corrunercial expansion and that expansion west of
that corridor should be discouraged.
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Chairman O'Neal asked if anyone present wished to speak
on the rezoning request. The following persons corrunented:
Mr. John McAdams, a Consulting Engineer of
Associates, corrunented on expansion of the
Development District. He stated the proposed
would consist of the following tracts:
Landfall
Planned
expansion
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, NOVEMBER 2, 1987 (CONTINUED)
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Tract #1 - Northwest Corner 40.5 acres of which
24.57 is designated for corrunercial uses
and the balance of the tract for Office
and Institutional.
Tract #2 - Northeast Corner - 12.12 acres to remain to
PD Residential (which is modification of the
original request).
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Tract #3 - 21 acres on Southwest corner of
intersection of Eastwood Road
Military Cutoff for a mixture
Office Uses and Corrunercial Uses.
the
and
of
Mr. McAdams corrunented on the intersection of Eastwood
Road and Military Cutoff as the focal point when approaching
Landfall stating aesthetics are of primary importance,
particularly ln landscaping, road improvements, and
architectural design of corrunercial and office structures.
Mr. Laurence J. Meisner, representing Kimley Horn &
Associates, gave background information on a traffic survey
performed at the intersection of Eastwood Road and Military
Cutoff. He stated a one-day survey was performed from 7:00
A.M. to 9:00 A.M. and from 4:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M. with the
conclusion that the proposed road improvements by Landfall
will be more than adequate to handle the increased traffic
flow.
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Discussion was held on the number of accidents that
have occurred at this intersection and the impact of
additional traffic. Corrunissioner Barfield expressed concern
for a one-day survey being performed on September 15,
stating in order to obtain an accurate projection, the
survey should be performed for a number of weeks.
Vice-Chairman Dolan corrunented on the County's current
pOlicy to limit corrunercial development west of the Military
Cut-Off Road expressing concern for rezoning of the
southwest corner.
Mr. Richard Wetherill, Jr., an adjacent property owner,
stated he was not opposed to the PD District expansion since
Tract #2 would remain residential.
Mr. Stanley Patelos, an adjacent property owner, stated
he was comfortable with the plan as now proposed.
Chairman O'Neal asked if anyone present wished to
in opposition to the proposed PD District expansion.
following person corrunented:
speak
The
Mr. William Funderburg, a resident of Castle Hayne,
expressed concern for expansion of a Planned Development
District which will have a direct impact on the present
water and sewer system. He also corrunented on the traffic
survey performed for one day stating these figures could not
be accurate.
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Chairman O'Neal closed the Public Hearing.
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Vice-Chairman Dolan MOVED, SECONDED by Corrunissioner
Barfield to approve expansion of the Planned Development
District to the Northeast Corner as presented by the
petitioner, the Northwest Corner for residential use only as
presented by the petitioner, and to deny the request to
develop the southwest corner for corrunercial use due to
encroachment into a residential neighborhoOd. The floor was
opened for discussion.
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, NOVEMBER 2, 1987 (CONTINUED)
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After discussion of corrunercial use on the southwest
corner of the intersection and access points, corrunissioner
Retchin made a SUBSTITUTE MOTION, SECONDED by Chairman
0' Neal to approve all master plan changes as submitted and
approve rezoning of 73.5 acres at the northeast, northwest
and southwest corners of Military Cut-off and Eastwood Road
to Planned Development District from R-15 Residential, with
the following conditions:
1. The northeast corner shall be designated for
residential development only.
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2. The two (2) curb cuts at the irrunediate southwest
corner of the intersection shall be eliminated to
reduce the number of turning movements.
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3. Concomitant with the construction of corrunercial
uses in the northeast corner, a connecting road
from Military Cut-off to Landfall's pembroke Jones
Drive shall be built. No occupancy permits for any
of the corrunercial uses will be issued until this
road has been completed.
The floor was opened for discussion. Corrunents were
made with reference to the County's policy not to encourage
corrunercial development southwest of the Military Cut-off
Road.
Chairman 0' Neal called for a vote on the SUBSTITUTE
MOTION. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED AS FOLLOWS:
Voting Aye: Corrunissioner Corbett
Corrunissioner Retchin
Chairman O'Neal
,.,
Voting Noe: Corrunissioner Barfield
Vice-Chairman Dolan
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A copy of an "AN ORDINANCE OF THE COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER
AMENDING THE ZONING MAP OF ZONING AREA NO. 2 OF NEW HANOVER
COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA, ADOPTED DECEMBER 15, 1986, is
contained in Zoning Ordinance Book I, Section 2, Page 25.
CONTINUANCE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER AN APPEAL OF
PLANNING BOARD'S DENIAL TO REZONE APPROXIMATELY TWO
ACRES ON THE WEST SIDE OF VICTORY GARDENS DRIVE TO
BUSINESS FROM R-15 RESIDENTIAL
Clerk to the Board, Lucie F. Harrell,
Davis, Jr., Attorney representing the
written a letter requesting continuance
Hearing until the 2nd meeting in November.
THE
(2)
B-2
stated Robert T.
petitioner, had
of the Public
Chairman O'Neal asked if anyone present would like to
speak on the request for continuance. The following person
corrunented:
Mr. Larry Sneeden, an adjacent property owner, stated
he did not object to continuance of the Public Hearing as
requested.
corrunissioner Corbett MOVED, SECONDED by corrunissioner
Retchin to continue the Public Hearing to November 16, 1987,
as requested by Attorney Davis. Upon vote, the MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
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PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER REZONING 5.0 ACRES AT 5918 MARKET
STREET TO B-2 BUSINESS FROM R-15 RESIDENTIAL
Chairman O'Neal opened the Public Hearing.
Planning Director Hayes gave background information on
the rezoning of 5.0 acres at 5918 Market Street to B-2
Business from R-15 Residential stating the Planning Board
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, NOVEMBER 2, 1987 (CONTINUED)
6:
voted unanimously to approve the request and recorrunended
approval if no one present wished to speak in opposition.
Chairman O'Neal asked if anyone present wished to speak
in opposition to the rezoning request. No one corrunented.
Chairman O'Neal closed the Public Hearing.
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Corrunissioner Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by Corrunissioner
Corbett to approve the rezoning request as presented by the
Planning Board. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
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A copy of AN ORDINANCE OF THE COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER
AMENDING THE ZONING MAP OF ZONING AREA NO. 9B OF NEW HANOVER
COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA, ADOPTED JULY 1, 1972," is contained
in Zoning Ordinance Book II, Section 9B, Page 64.
PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER REZONING 25.0
NORTHWEST SIDE OF MARKET STREET, SOUTH
VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT TO B-2 BUSINESS
1,000 FEET FROM R-15
Chairman O'Neal opened the Public Hearing.
ACRES ON THE
OF THE OGDEN
TO A DEPTH OF
Planning Director Hayes gave background information on
the rezoning request stating the Planning Board unanimously
voted to approve the rezoning and recorrunended approval if no
one present wished to speak in opposition.
Chairman O'Neal asked if anyone present wished to speak
in opposition to the rezoning request. No one corrunented.
Chairman O'Neal closed the Public Hearing.
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Corrunissioner Corbett MOVED, SECONDED by Corrunissioner
Retchin to approve rezoning 25.0 acres on the northwest side
of Market Street, south of the Ogden Volunteer Fire
Department to B- 2 Business to a depth of 1,000 feet from
R-15. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
A copy of "AN ORDINANCE OF THE COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER
AMENDING THE ZONING MAP OF ZONING AREA NO. 8B OF NEW HANOVER
COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA ADOPTED JULY 7, 1972," is contained
in Zoning Ordinance Book II, Section 8B, Page 25.
PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER REZONING APPROXIMATELY 85 ACRES
NORTHEAST OF WILDFLOWER AND KINGS GRANT SUBDIVISIONS TO R-10
FROM R-15 RESIDENTIAL
Chairman O'Neal opened the Public Hearing.
Planning Director Hayes gave background information on
the rezoning request stating the Planning Board voted
unanimously to approve the request and recorrunended approval
if no one present wished to speak in opposition.
Chairman O'Neal asked if anyone present wished to speak
in opposition to the rezoning request. No one corrunented.
Chairman O'Neal closed the Public Hearing.
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Corrunissioner Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by Corrunissioner
Barfield to approve rezoning approximately 85 acres
northeast of Wildflower and Kings Grant Subdivisions to R-10
from R-15 Residential as presented by the Planning Board.
Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
A copy of "AN ORDINANCE OF THE COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER
AMENDING THE ZONING MAP OF ZONING AREA 8B OF NEW HANOVER
COUNTY NORTH CAROLINA, ADOPTED JULY 7, 1972," is contained
in Zoning Book II, Section 8B, Page 26.
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86 MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, NOVEMBER 2, 1987 (CONTINUED)
PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER A MODIFICATION OF REQUEST TO
REZONE APPROXIMATELY NINE (9) ACRES AT 6738 MARKET STREET TO
B-2 BUSINESS FROM R-15 RESIDENTIAL
Chairman O'Neal opened the Public Hearing.
Planning Director Hayes gave background information on
the rezoning request stating considerable interest had been
generated from residents of Northwood Subdivision expressing
concern for corrunercial encroachment along the southwest
boundary of the property. He stated the residents agreed
that corrunercial development would be generally acceptable if
adequate buffering and setback design criteria were used to
visually separate the proposed corrunercial use from existing
residential uses. Planning Director Hayes stated the
Planning Board unanimously approved the request with the
exception of a 70-foot strip at the back of the property
which will remain residentially zoned.
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Chairman O'Neal
speak in favor of
person corrunented:
asked if anyone present would like to
the rezoning request. The following
Mr. Bennie Griffith, a resident of Northwood
Subdivision, stated the neighborhood would be comfortable
with a 70-foot strip along the back of the property
remaining residentially zoned.
Chairman O'Neal asked if anyone present wished to speak
in opposition to the rezoning request. No one corrunented.
Chairman O'Neal closed the Public Hearing.
After discussion, corrunissioner Barfield MOVED, SECONDED
by Corrunissioner Retchin to approve the rezoning as
recorrunended by the Planning Board which provides for a
70-foot residentially zoned strip on the back of the
property. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
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A copy of an "AN ORDINANCE OF THE COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER
AMENDING THE ZONING MAP OF ZONING AREA NO. 6 OF NEW HANOVER
COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA, ADOPTED AUGUST 18, 1971," is
contained in Zoning Ordinance Book I, Section 6, Page 36.
PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER REZONING .89 ACRE ON THE WEST
SIDE OF DICK AVENUE TO B-2 BUSINESS FROM R-15 RESIDENTIAL
AND TO CONSIDER REZONING .83 ACRE AT THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF
DICK AVENUE AND WRIGHTSVILLE AVENUE TO B-2 BUSINESS FROM
R-15 RESIDENTIAL
Chairman O'Neal opened the Public Hearing.
Planning Director Hayes stated the rezoning requests
were unanimously approved by the Planning Board due to
recent corrunercial rezonings and annexation of nearby
properties by Wrightsville Beach. He stated the Planning
Board and Planning Staff recorrunend approval of the rezoning
requests.
Chairman 0' Neal asked if anyone present would like to
speak in favor of or in opposition to the rezoning requests.
No one corrunented.
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Chairman O'Neal closed the Public Hearing.
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After discussion, Corrunissioner Retchin MOVED, SECONDED
by corrunissioner Barfield to approve rezoning Case Z-324 and
S-328 as presented by the Planning Board and Planning Staff.
Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, NOVEMBER 2, 1987 (CONTINUED)
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Copies of "ORDINANCES OF THE COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER
AMENDING THE ZONING MAP OF ZONING AREA NO. 2 OF NEW HANOVER
COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA, ADOPTED DECEMBER 15, 1969," are
contained in Zoning Ordinance Book II, Section 2, Page 26
and Page 27.
PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER MODIFICATION OF REQUEST TO REZONE
APPROXIMATELY 29 ACRES AT SOUTHEASTERN CORNER OF U. S 421
AND PINER ROAD TO B-2 BUSINESS FROM R-15 RESIDENTIAL
Chairman O'Neal opened the Public Hearing.
Planning Director Hayes gave background information on
the rezoning request stating many residents supported the
concept of constructing a shopping center but were concerned
about traffic circulation along Piner Road and the overall
drainage system in the area. He stated the Planning Board
recorrunended parcels #16 and #17 as indicated on the site
plan map retain a 50-foot residential strip along Piner Road
and that the balance of the parcels in the petition be
rezoned to B-2 Business.
Chairman O'Neal asked if anyone present wished to speak
in favor of the rezoning request. The following persons
corrunented:
Mr. David Barefoot, Attorney representing the
petitioner, corrunented on the highest and best use of the
property for corrunercial development stating the petitioner
would work with the Department of Transportation in widening
piner Road with placement of a traffic light. He also
corrunented on the buffer area which would be planted with
shade trees.
Chairman O'Neal asked if anyone present wished to speak
in opposition to the rezoning request. The fOllowing person
corrunented:
Mr. Burris Bender, an adj acent property, owner
corrunented on the buffer area and requested the corrunissioners
to require heavy planting along the buffer strip if the
rezoning request is approved. He expressed concern for
privacy and noise to surrounding property owners.
Chairman O'Neal closed the Public Hearing.
After discussion of the buffer area, corrunissioner
Corbett MOVED, SECONDED by Corrunissioner Barfield to approve
the rezoning request as recorrunended by the Planning Board
which will require a 50-foot residential strip along piner
Road on parcels #16 and #17 (Neal and Gurganous tracts).
Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
A copy of "AN ORDINANCE OF THE COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER
AMENDING THE ZONING MAP OF ZONING AREA NO. 4 OF NEW HANOVER
COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA, ADOPTED APRIL 7, 1971," is contained
in Zoning Ordinance Book I, Section 4, Page 24.
PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER A MODIFICATION OF REQUEST TO
REZONE APPROXIMATELY 12 ACRES ON THE WEST SIDE OF N. C. 132,
NORTH OF MONKEY JUNCTION TO B-2 BUSINESS FROM R-15
RESIDENTIAL
Chairman O'Neal opened the Public Hearing.
Planning Director Hayes gave background information on
the rezoning request stating the Planning Board unanimously
approved the request with exception of a 50-foot strip along
the properties' northwestern boundary which will retain its
current residential classification.
Chairman
in favor of
corrunented:
O'Neal asked if anyone present wished to speak
the rezoning request. The following person
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MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, NOVEMBER 2, 1987 (CONTINUED)
Mr. Alton Lennon, Attorney representing the petitioner,
corrunented on the use of the property stating the petitioner
had recorrunended retaining the 50-foot buffer along parcels
# 1, # 2, # 3 , and # 4 in order to protect the surrounding
neighborhood.
Chairman O'Neal asked if anyone present wished to speak
in opposition to the rezoning request. No one corrunented.
Chairman O'Neal closed the Public Hearing.
Corrunissioner Corbett MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chairman
Dolan to rezone the property as recorrunended by the Planning
Board which will retain a 50-foot residential strip along
the northwestern property line. Upon vote, the MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
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A copy of "AN ORDINANCE OF THE COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER
AMENDING THE ZONING MAP OF ZONING AREA 4 AND MASONBORO OF
NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA, ADOPTED APRIL 7, 1971
AND OCTOBER 15, 1969," is contained in Zoning Ordinance Book
I, Section 4, Page 25.
PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER TEXT AMENDMENT TO SECTIONS 23,
100, AND 108 OF THE ZONING ORDINANCE TO CLARIFY THE
DELEGATION OF ENFORCEMENT AUTHORITY
Chairman O'Neal opened the Public Hearing.
Planning Director Hayes stated the proposed Zoning Text
Amendment seeks to further classify and clarify enforcement
authority for the Zoning Ordinance. He corrunented on a
recent court case in which testimony of the Enforcement
Officer was limited due to a lack of delegation or
assignment of authority for zoning matters.
Chairman O'Neal asked if anyone present wished to speak
in favor of or in opposition to the proposed Zoning Text
Amendment. No one corrunented.
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Discussion was held
recorrunendation to replace
"director" in the beginning
on Section 100-1 with
the word "he" with the
of the second sentence.
the
word
Chairman O'Neal closed the Public Hearing.
Corrunissioner Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by Corrunissioner
Corbett to approve the Zoning Text Amendment as presented by
the Planning Staff with replacement of the word "director"
for "he" in the beginning of the second sentence in Section
100-1. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Corrunissioner Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by Corrunissioner
Barfield to approve the minutes of the Regular Meeting of
October 19, 1987, as presented. Upon vote, the MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA
Vice-Chairman Dolan MOVED, SECONDED by corrunissioner
Corbett to approve the following Consent Agenda items. Upon
vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
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CONSENT AGENDA
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Adoption of Resolution to Add Roads to N. C. State Secondary
Road System
The corrunissioners adopted a resolution to add the
following roads to the N. C. State Secondary Road System:
Banbury Lane and Gregory Road
Windemere Subdivision, Section 10
(Division File #568-N)
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, NOVEMBER 2, 1987 (CONTINUED)
6~
A copy of the resolution is contained in Exhibit Book
XV, Page 42.
Approval of Airport Master Plan Study Contract
The Corrunissioners approved the contract with
Talbert-Cox and Associates, Inc. providing professional
services for development of a new Airport Master Plan. The
Chairman was authorized to execute the documents subject to
approval by the County Attorney and FAA.
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A copy of the contract is on file in the County
Manager's office.
Approval of Contract for Audio/Visual Equipment
Corrunissioners' Assembly Room - Courthouse Renovation
The Corrunissioners approved a contract with Omni
Electronics, Inc. in the amount of $37,946 for audio/visual
equipment for the Assembly Room in the Courthouse. The
Chairman was authorized to execute the documents.
A copy of the contract is on file in the County
Manager's office.
Adoption of Resolution Requesting the State of North
Carolina to Release New Hanover County's Share of Economic
Community Development Planning Funds to Region "0"
The corrunissioners adopted a resolution requesting the
State to release New Hanover County's share of Economic
Corrununity Development Planning funds to Region "0" Cape Fear
Council of Governments in the amount of $19,812.85.
A copy of the resolution is contained in Exhibit Book
XV, Page 42.
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Approval of Contracts for Detoxification Building and Health
Department Expansion
The Corrunissioners approved contracts with Synthesis,
Inc. for architectural services for the Detoxification
Building in the amount of $58,000 and the Health Department
Expansion in the amount of $104,885.
Copies of the contracts are on file in the County
Manager's office.
Adoption of Resolutions Accepting Offers to Purchase Surplus
Real Property
The corrunissioners adopted resolutions accepting offers
to purchase surplus real property as follows:
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Rear 600 Block, Smith Terrace
700 Block of South 10th Street
922 South 7th Street
801 Anderson Street
715 North 6th Street
915 Grace Street
911 Grace Street
818 South 11th Street
801 Campbell Street
914 South 4th Street
600 Block, Campbell Alley
108 Meares Street
Copies of the resolutions are contained in Exhibit Book
XV, Page 42.
Change Orders Reported for Entry Into Record
The corrunissioners approved Change Order Report #3 as
presented by the Director of Engineer and Facilities for
entry into the record.
A copy of the report is contained in Exhibit Book XV,
Page 43.
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90
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, NOVEMBER 2, 1987 (CONTINUED)
Approval of Budget Amendments
The County Corrunissioners approved the following Budget
Amendments:
88-0111 Library
Debit
Credit
Contributions
State Aid to Public Libraries
$4,526
7,575
Supplies (Books)
Capital Outlay - Equipment
$4,526
7,575
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Proceeds from
Library, and
appropriation
Friends Book Sale, Contributions to
an increase of the State Aid
to New Hanover County.
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88-0108 Fire Departments
Debit
Credit
State Grant
$4,000
Castle Hayne Volunteer Fire Department
Federal Point Volunteer Fire Department
Ogden Volunteer Fire Department
Seagate Volunteer Fire Department
Myrtle Grove Volunteer Fire Department
Wrightsboro Volunteer Fire Department
Winter Park Volunteer Fire Department
South Wilmington Volunteer Fire Department
$500
$500
$500
$500
$500
$500
$500
$500
State contribution of $500 to each of the County's
volunteer fire departments.
Budget Amendment Approved by Budget Officer and Reported for
Entry Into the Record
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88-0098 Library
Debit
Credit
Contributions
$1,000
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Supplies (books)
$1,000
Anonymous gift from the Foundation for the Carolinas.
SECOND READING AND ADOPTION OF AN ORDINANCE GRANTING AN
AMBULANCE SERVICE FRANCHISE TO MEDICAL TRANSPORTATION
SPECIALISTS, INC. - SECOND READING
Corrunissioner Barfield MOVED, SECONDED by Corrunissioner
Corbett to adopt an ordinance granting an Ambulance Service
Franchise to Medical Transportation Specialists, Inc. Upon
vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
A copy of the ordinance is contained in Exhibit Book
XV, Page 43.
Vice-Chairman Dolan asked if questions with reference
to the contract between New Hanover County and Medical
Transportation Specialists, Inc. had been resolved. County
Attorney Pope stated the contract was in order and would be
presented for final approval on November 16, 1987.
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APPROVAL OF NEW POSITION PHYSICIAN EXTENDER II - NEW
HANOVER COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT
Mr. Robert S. Parker, Director of the Heal th
Department, gave background information on the irrunediate
need to increase medical coverage for the inmate population
of the Jail and Jail Annex. He requested approval of one
(1) Physician Extender II position in order to adequately
provide medical coverage to both the Jail and Jail Annex.
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After discussion, corrunissioner Barfield MOVED, SECONDED
by Chairman O'Neal to approve a Physician Extender II
position as requested by the Health Director with approval
of the following Budget Amendment:
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, NOVEMBER 2, 1987 (CONTINUED)
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88-0105 Health Department/Jail Health Program
Debit
Credit
Contingencies
$18,194
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Health Department/Jail Health Program
Salaries and Wages
Social Security Taxes
Retirement - Local Government
Medical Insurance Expense
$15,459
1,133
370
1,232
Establishment of Physician Extender II in Jail Health
Program for Jail Annex.
APPROVAL OF BY-LAWS FOR THE BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS
Mr. Aubrey Rivenbark, Chairman of the New Hanover
County Board of Fire Corrunissioners, presented and requested
approval of By-Laws for the Board of Fire Corrunissioners.
After discussion, Vice-Chairman Dolan MOVED, SECONDED
by Corrunissioner Retchin to approve the By-Laws as presented.
Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Mr. Chris Elrod, Fire Marshal, presented and requested
adoption of By-Laws for the Fire Board of Appeals.
After discussion, Corrunissioner Retchin MOVED, SECONDED
by Vice-Chairman Dolan to approve the By-Laws as presented
for Fire Board of Appeals.
Copies of the By-Laws are contained in Exhibit Book XV,
Page 43.
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DISCUSSION OF EASEMENT IN SEAGATE AREA - FIRE MARSHAL
Discussion was held on opening an easement in the
Seagate area in order to provide an additional route for
fire fighting equipment. It was the consensus of the Board
to request the County Attorney and Fire Marshal to check
into this matter and report their findings to the
Corrunissioners at a later date.
DISCUSSION OF INSURANCE SERVICES ORGANIZATION RATING SYSTEM
corrunissioner Corbett asked if anything was being done
to reduce the ISO rating.
Fire Marshal Elrod stated he would be making a
presentation within a few weeks which will address the
SUbject of fire hydrant placement in the County as it
relates to the ISO rating.
DISCUSSION OF RATING FOR SOUTH WILMINGTON VOLUNTEER FIRE
DEPARTMENT
Fire Marshal Elrod stated he was forwarding ISO a
current map of the fire districts which includes the north
expansion of the South Wilmington Volunteer Fire Department.
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Discussion was held on liability and insurance coverage
until the ISO rating is obtained for the newly constructed
South Wilmington Volunteer Fire Station. Fire Marshal Elrod
stated volunteer firemen are currently covered for any
injury or accident occurring while in the performance of
duty.
Discussion was held on amending the Charter of the
South Wilmington Volunteer Fire Department to include U. S.
Highway 421 North. Fire Marshall Elrod stated an amendment
would be prepared and presented to the Corrunissioners for
final approval.
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92
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, NOVEMBER 2, 1987 (CONTINUED)
DISCUSSION OF PERFORMANCE EVALUATIONS FOR COUNTY MANAGER,
COUNTY ATTORNEY, AND CLERK TO THE BOARD
Commissioner Barfield expressed concern for evaluation
forms used in the past and recorrunended that the Personnel
Director prepare shorter forms.
After further discussion, it was the consensus of the
Board to request the Chairman to work with the Personnel
Director on procedures and forms to be used in the
evaluation process.
"
ADDITIONAL ITEMS - COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
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Presentation of Proposals for Exhibit Design Services
Museum Expansion
Corrunissioner Corbett stated the Museum Building
Committee had selected five firms to present proposals for
exhibit design services for the Museum Expansion. He stated
the presentations will be held in the 5th Floor Conference
Room of the County Administration Building on the following
dates:
Monday, November 30, 1987
2:00 P.M. - Miles Fridberg Molinaroli
3:00 P.M. - Ralph Appelbaum Associates
Tuesday, December 1, 1987
9:00 A.M. - Design & Production Inc.
10:00 A.M. - Gerard Hilferty & Associates
11:00 A.M. - Vincent Ciulla Design
DISCUSSION OF TRANSPORTATION DEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR HUMAN
SERVICES - DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
corrunissioner Retchin corrunented on the Transportation
Development Plan for Human Services needs which is being
studied and prepared by the Department of Social Services.
He stated as a representative of the County Commissioners on
the Social Services Board, he had been requested by the
Social Services Board to ask if the County will be
interested in participating in the funding of the plan when
completed, and if the County would like for the Department
of Social Services to continue development of the plan. He
stated a memorandum and progress report on the plan had been
forwarded to each Commissioner and that he would appreciate
a response.
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DISCUSSION OF MOBILE HOME DEVELOPMENTS
Vice-Chairman Dolan corrunented on the various mobile
home developments and parks throughout the County. He
expressed concern for the size of proposed developments and
suggested that the Planning Staff review the current
ordinance regulating placement of mobile homes and land use.
After discussion, it was the consensus of the Board to
request the Planning Department to review the current
ordinance and present recommendations for future development
of mobile homes in the County.
ADDITIONAL ITEMS - COUNTY MANAGER
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ANNOUNCEMENT OF AIRPORT COMMISSION MEETING
County Manager Cooper announced an organizational
meeting of the Airport Commission was scheduled for November
5, 1987, at 4:00 P.M. in the 2nd Floor Conference Room of
the New Hanover County Airport. He stated the purpose of
the meeting was to elect a Chairman and Vice-Chairman and to
present items that need irrunediate attention by the Airport
corrunission.
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Vice-Chairman Dolan stated three members of the Airport
Commission had contacted him aSking for clarification of the
memorandum received pertaining to the purpose of the first
meeting. They had anticipated an informal meeting would be
held for introduction of the Airport Corrunissioners to the
new Airport Manager, Public Safety Director, County Staff
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING, NOVEMBER 2, 1987 (CONTINUED)
6S
and Board of Corrunissioners with another date being
scheduled for an organizational meeting to elect the
Chairman, Vice-Chairman, and discuss issues of irrunediate
concern. Vice-Chairman Dolan stressed the importance of the
County Commissioners attending the first meeting in order to
meet the new Airport Commissioners stating, frankly, he was
surprised that an informal meeting had not be scheduled.
County Manager Cooper stated the Commissioners are
invited to attend all meetings.
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ADJOURNMENT
Corrunissioner Barfield MOVED, SECONDED by Corrunissioner
Retchin to adjourn. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
Chairman 0' Neal adjourned the meeting at 9: 38 0' clock
A.M.
Respectfully submitted,
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Lucie F. Harrell
Clerk
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