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2021-04-19 RM ExhibitsNEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS Exhibit Book Page NATIONAL SAFE BOATING WEEK PROCLAMATION WHEREAS, for nearly 90 million Americans, boating continues to be a popular recreational activity. In North Carolina, boating, fishing and sailing are a few of the most popular year round activities; and WHEREAS, New Hanover County is committed to ensuring the safety and security of all those living in and visiting our county; and WHEREAS, on average, 650 people die each year in boating - related accidents in the U.S.; approximately three - fourths of these fatalities are caused by drowning; and WHEREAS, the vast majority of these accidents are caused by human error or poor judgement and not by the boat, equipment, or environmental factors; and WHEREAS, every boater should wear a U.S. Coast Guard - approved life jacket at all times while boating. A significant number of boaters who lost their lives by drowning each year would be alive today had they worn their life jackets. Drowning remains the number one cause of death for recreational boaters each year, and the majority of drowning victims in recreational boating accidents are not wearing a life jacket; and WHEREAS, today's life jackets are more comfortable, more attractive, and more wearable than styles of years past and deserve a fresh look by today's boating public; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED that the New Hanover County Board of Commissioners does hereby support the goals of the North American Safe Boating Campaign and that May 22- 28, 2021 will be recognized as "National Safe Boating Week" in New Hanover County, and the start of the year -round effort to promote safe boating. ADOPTED this the 19th day of April, 2021. NEW OVER COON u i son- os man, Chair ATTE T: il Qa'j JA KyrrWerleigh G. Crowell, Clerk to the Board Exhibit Book '(Ill Page. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS SEXUAL ASSAULT AWARENESS MONTH PROCLAMATION WHEREAS, April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), a time to draw attention to the prevalence of sexual assault and educate individuals and communities about how to prevent it; and WHEREAS, sexual harassment, abuse, and assault are widespread problems. In the United States, nearly one in five women and one in 67 men have been raped at some time in their lives, and one in six boys and one in four girls is sexually abused before the age of 18; and WHEREAS, sexual harassment, assault, and abuse happen in all communities, and that includes online spaces. People are spending more and more of our lives online whether that is for work, school, or entertainment. Unfortunately, with this increase in virtual connection comes an increase in online abuse and harassment. Consent and boundaries can be violated online in a number of ways, and the trauma of online abuse is all too real for many survivors. But each person has the power to change that. Everyone can make a difference to ensure that our online communities are safe and respectful for everyone; and WHEREAS, 2021 marks the twentieth anniversary of SAAM, and the theme of this year's campaign is "We Can Build Safe Online Spaces." The campaign calls on everyone to create online spaces that are built on the foundational values of practicing consent, keeping kids safe, and supporting survivors. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED by the New Hanover County Board of Commissioners that April 2021 will be recognized as "Sexual Assault Awareness Month" in New Hanover County. ADOPTED this the 19th day of April, 2021. NEW H PER ulia son -B ATTEST: 0 • 00 Ky erleigh G. Cr a ell, Clerk to the Board Exhibit AGENDA: April 19, 2021 Book YkA l I Page -a NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE FISCAL YEAR 2021 BUDGET BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of County Commissioners of New Hanover County, North Carolina, that the following Budget Amendment(s) be made to the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2021. Section 1: Details of Budget Amendment Strategic Focus Area: Superior Public Health & Safety Strategic Objective(s): Sustain the community capacity to prepare for and respond to public safety demands Fund: General Department: Department of Social Services Expenditure: Decrease Increase Total BA 21 -055 Crisis Intervention Pro CIP $ 253 664 $ $ (253,664) BA 21 -057 CFPUA Water Assistance Pro $ $ 1 74 $ 1,374 BA 21 -0 58 LIEAP S 75 000 $ $ 75 000 Tatty ^r r $j000 Revenue: r n T 1 BA 21 -055 Crisis Intervention Pro CIP $ (253,664) S W $ (253,664) BA 21 -057 CFPUA Water Assistance Pro $ $ 1,374 $ 1,374 BA 21 -058 LIEAP $ (75,000) $ $ $j000 Prior to =7 Actions L +3 Departmental Budget Total if Actions Taken 1 , ti Section 2: Explanation BA 21 -055 reduces the budgeted amount for the Crisis Intervention Payment (CIP) program. The amount budgeted is based on estimates from the state. The allocation for the fiscal year was less than anticipated. This energy assistance program assists low income persons with heating or cooling related crises. The CIP program is part of the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program block grant. Households apply for the benefits at their local social services agency. Each county receives an allocation to fiord the CIP program based on the poverty level in the county and the county food and nutrition services caseload numbers. Counties have the option to set an annual minimum allowable assistance amount up to a maximum of $600. Payment amounts vary based on the crisis and the amount needed to alleviate the energy crisis. The program fiords the CIP benefit payments and are intended to cover all administrative costs. The state did a spending/allocation survey and based on the survey results from the county didn't think the county would use all the money allocated and thought other counties would benefit from the money. There were no unserved households. There is no county match for CIP payments. BA 21 -057 budgets three contributions received from community partners for the Cape Fear Public Utility Authority ( CFPUA) Assistance Program which assists citizens with past due accounts to avoid disruption of services. The program is 100% funded by community parser contributions along with contributions from the city and county. The maximum benefit per eligible household is $500 per fiscal year. These fiords may not be used for deposits. Eligibility is based on need and funds available. Funds remaining at the end of the fiscal year are carried over to the next fiscal year. No county match is required. BA 21 -058 decreases the budgeted amount for the Low Income Energy Assistance Program ( LIEAP). The amount budgeted is based on estimates from the state. The state has executed a reallocation for the fiscal year. This program assists low income households with the cost of heating expenses. Eligible households receive a one -time LIEAP heating assistance payment made directly to their heating vendor. The target population is persons age 60 and over, or disabled persons receiving a state service through the Division of Aging and Adult Services. Household income must be at or below 130% of poverty. County departments of social services take applications during the specified time period of December 1 through March 31, or until funds are exhausted. The program finds the LIEAP benefit payments and are intended to cover all administrative costs. There were no unserved households. This program ended on March 31, 2021. There is no county match for LIEAP payments. Section 3: Documentation of Adoption This ordinance shall be effective upon its adoption. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of County Commissioners of New Hanover County, North Carolina, that the Ordinance for Budget Amendment(s) 21 -055, 21 -057 & 21 -058 amending the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2021, is adopted. wil, 2021. Exhibit Book xuI t Page &3 b AGENDA: April 19, 2021 NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE FISCAL YEAR 2021 BUDGET BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of County Commissioners of New Hanover County, North Carolina, that the following Budget Amendment(s) be made to the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2021. Section 1: Details of Budget Amendment Strategic Focus Area: Superior Public Health & Safety Strategic Objective(s): Sustain the community capacity to prepare for and respond to public safety demands Fund: Controlled Substance Tax ( CSTAX) Department: Sheriffs Office Ex enditure: Decrease Increase Total BA 21 -059 Supplies $ - $ 16,000 $ 16,000 BA 21 -059 Training & Travel $ - $ 12,022 $ 12,022 Thal. AiW Revenue: Decrease Increase Total BA 21 -059 Controlled Substance Tax $ - $ 27,927 $ 27,927 BA 21 -059 Interest Earnings $ - $ 95 $ 95 3 ;16", ,.� *fin -10221 : Prior to Total if Actions Actions Toda Taken CSTAX Budget $'; 143 497 1 1 s' -'; .1111;519 Section 2: Explanation BA 21 -059 budgets Controlled Substance Tax receipts dated 2/18/21 and 3/18/21 and interest income for November 2020 through February 2021. Funds will be used for supplies and training for law enforcement purposes only. Section 3: Documentation of Adoption This ordinance shall be effective upon its adoption. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of County Commissioners of New Hanover County, North Carolina, that the Ordinance for Budget Amendment(s) 21 -059 amending the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2021, is adopted. Adopted, this 19th day of April, 2021. (SEA K ) ellf Julia on- oseman, Chair I ES . A. gn. K b rle ijfi G. Crowt Clerk to the Board Exhibit Book JtAkk Page � 3G AGENDA: April 19, 2021 NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE FISCAL YEAR 2021 BUDGET BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of County Commissioners of New Hanover County, North Carolina, that the following Budget Amendment(s) be made to the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2021. Section 1: Details of Budget Amendment Strategic Focus Area: Superior Public Health & Safety Strategic Objective(s): Sustain the community capacity to prepare for and respond to public safety demands Fund: Federal Forfeited Property Department: Sheriffs Office Ex enditure: Decrease Increase Total BA 21 -060 Supplies $ - $ 30,839 $ 30,839 BA 21 -060 Training & Travel $ - $ 15,000 $ 15,000 Total :. ... 54 y1 < 4 39 4. Revenue: Decrease Increase Total BA 21 -060 Federal Forfeited Pr $ - $ 45,414 $ 45,414 BA 21 -060 Interest Earnings - $ 425 $ 425 Total" �$ i7,.'::''. ,;. y1 < 4 39 4. Prior to Total if Actions Actions T a Taken Federal Forfeited Prop Budget LS 600.093 1 Is, 645`932 Section 2: Explanation BA 21 -060 budgets Federal Forfeited Property receipts dated 2/23/21, and interest income from November 2020 through February 2021. Funds will be used for supplies and training for law enforcement purposes only. Section 3: Documentation of Adoption This ordinance shall be effective upon its adoption. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of County Commissioners of New Hanover County, North Carolina, that the Ordinance for Budget Amendment(s) 21 -060 amending the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2021, is adopted. Adopted, this 19th day of April, 2021. (SFAi.I a O oseman, air ATT ST• J-(WWV- Kyrnb6oigh G. Crowell, V&k to the Board Exhibit DUI% Page 3 3cl AGENDA: April 19, 2021 Book NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE FISCAL YEAR 2021 BUDGET BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of County Commissioners of New Hanover County, North Carolina, that the following Budget Amendment(s) be made to the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2021. Section 1: Details of Budget Amendment Strategic Focus Area: Superior Public Health & Safety Strategic Objective(s): Sustain the community capacity to prepare for and respond to public safety demands Fund: General Department: Health & Human Services Agency /Public Health Ex enditure: Decrease Increase Total BA 21 -061 COVID -19 $ - $ 575,339 $ 575,339 T4tal 11 - -57"19 Revenue: Decrease Increase Total BA 21 -061 COVID -19 $ - $ 575,339 $ 575,339 Tot1 ... - -57"19 Prior to Total if Actions Actions Toda Taken Departmental Budget $ 1� b93 250 $ ' 1 9 Section 2: Explanation BA 21 -061 budgets funds allocated by the NC Department of Health & Human Services, Division of Public Health in support of strengthening vaccination efforts during the COVID -19 pandemic. Allowable uses for these funds include support and expansion of vaccination clinics, training of providers, and equipping staff with needed supplies and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Contract workers will be utilized to assist county staff with these efforts. No new positions are being requested and no county match is required. The deadline to use this money is May 31, 2021. Section 3: Documentation of Adoption This ordinance shall be effective upon its adoption. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of County Commissioners of New Hanover County, North Carolina, that the Ordinance for Budget Amendment(s) 21 -061 amending the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2021, is adopted. Adopted, this 19th day of April, 2021. /,.*, IW�Z Ju is O n- oseman, thair ATT SrT: Kymb eigh G. Crowell erk to the Board AGENDA: April 19, 2021 NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE FISCAL YEAR 2021 BUDGET Exhibit Book) L Page •3e, BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of County Commissioners of New Hanover County, North Carolina, that the following Budget Amendment(s) be made to the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2021. Section 1: Details of Budget Amendment Strategic Focus Area: Superior Public Health & Safety Strategic Objective(s): Sustain the community capacity to prepare for and respond to public safety demands Fund: General Department: Sheriff's Office Ex enditure: Decrease Increase I Total BA 21 -062 Overtime $ - $ 6,581 $ 6,581 BA 21 -064 Sheriffs Office Pass - Through Grant $ - $ 10,000 $ 10,000 T Revenue: Decrease Increase Total BA 21 -062 Miscellaneous Revenue $ - $ 6,581 $ 6,581 BA 21 -064 NC Spay/Neuter Program $ - $ 10,000 $ 10,000 Prior to Total if Actions Taken Actions Tda Departmental Budget $ 50.040, 577 137 59,'9b6,15,8 Section 2: Explanation BA 21 -062 budgets overtime reimbursement from the FBI and US Marshal's Service for December 2020 and January 2021. BA 21 -064 establishes a budget for the county to act as a pass - through agent for the Wilmington Animal Centrix (WAC), a NC 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation, spay and neuter program utilizing funding from the NC Department of Agriculture's Spay/Neuter Program. The North Carolina program will reimburse the county for direct costs of spay /neuter procedures performed on dogs and cats owned by low- income individuals. WAC currently operates a low income spay /neuter program and requested the county to act as the pass - through agent. There is no match or cost to the county for this program. Section 3: Documentation of Adoption This ordinance shall be effective upon its adoption. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of County Commissioners of New Hanover County, North Carolina, that the Ordinance for Budget Amendment(s) 21 -062 & 21 -064 amending the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2021, is adopted. Adopted, this 19th day of April, 2021. (SEAL) / 2AV1__T Julia son -Boseln hair ATTES ` � /] Kym eigh G. Crowel lerk to the Board Exhibit AGENDA: April 19, 2021 Book U l( Page 3 .3 NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE FISCAL YEAR 2021 BUDGET BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of County Commissioners of New Hanover County, North Carolina, that the following Budget Amendment(s) be made to the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2021. Section 1: Details of Budget Amendment Strategic Focus Area: Superior Public Health & Safety Strategic Objective(s): Sustain the community capacity to prepare for and respond to public safety demands Fund: General Department: Senior Resource Center Ez enditure: Decrease Decrease Total Increase Total BA 21 -063 Senior Resource Center Expenditures S 2,000 $ $ 2,000 $ 2,000 BA 21 -065 Senior Resource Center Expenditures $ - $ - $ 5,306 $ 5,306 BA 21 -068 Senior Resource Center Ex ditures $ - $ 8,000 $ 8,000 Revenue: Decrease Increase Total BA 21 -063 Meals on Wheels Humana Grant $ - $ 2,000 S 2,000 BA 21 -065 MIPPA Grant $ - $ 5,306 $ 5,306 BA 21 -068 VITA Federal Grant $ - $ 8,000 S 8,000 Total b Prior to Total if Actions Actions Toda Taken Departmental Budget S 3999 1; 0 5197 ` Section 2: Explanation BA 21-063 appropriates a grant awarded to the Senior Resource Center from Meals on Wheels. Humana Mid - Atlantic made a donation to the Meals on Wheels COVID-19 Response Fund and the Senior Resource Center is one of the recipients of the funding. The funding will provide approximately 576 congregate meals to seniors in New Hanover County. There is no county match required. BA 21 -065 increases the budget for a federal Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act ( MIPPA) grant passed through the NC Department of Insurance to the Senior Resource Center. This is a recurring grant that was included in the adopted budget, however, the amount has been increased by $5,306. There is no county match required. BA 21-068 appropriates a federal grant awarded to the Senior Resource Center from Reinvestment Partners for the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. The funding will be used to operate a VITA free income tax preparation program in conformity with IRS requirements, including community outreach activities. On average VITA volunteers assist approximately 2,300 taxpayers each year with their tax preparation and filing. The total refunds claimed on these returns average $2.4 million per year. The VITA program is a free service to residents and it is estimated the VITA program saves residents around $700,000 a year in tax preparation fees. There is no county match required. These funds must be used to supplement existing county funds from program activities and may not replace county funds that have been appropriated for the same purpose. Section 3: Documentation of Adoption This ordinance shall be effective upon its adoption. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of County Commissioners of New Hanover County, North Carolina, that the Ordinance for Budget Amendment(s) 21 -063, 21 -065 & 21 -068 amending the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2021, is adopted. Adopted, this 19th day of April, 2021. Exhibit AGENDA: April 19, 2021 Book 20—M Page 3.3 G NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE FISCAL YEAR 2021 BUDGET BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of County Commissioners of New Hanover County, North Carolina, that the following Budget Amendment(s) be made to the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2021. Section 1: Details of Budget Amendment Strategic Focus Area: Strong Financial Performance Strategic Objective(s): Proactively manage the county budget Fund: General Ex enditure: Decrease Increase Total BA 21 -066 Transfer to Special Revenue Fund $ - $ 16 794 $ 16 794 dotal $'. 16794 °1 Revenue: I Decrease Increase Total 21 -066 Appropriated Fund Balance is - $ 116 794 $ 1y6�' 7/94 qBA $ tl 6 794 Prior to Actions Toda Appropriated Fund Balance .S .909 606 Fund: Public School Fund Total if Actions Taken $ - ". 9AI34b0' Revenue: Decrease Increase Total BA 21 -066 Transfer in from General Fund $ - $ 16,794 $ 16,794 BA 21 -066 Appropriated Fund Balance $ tl 6 794 $ - $ Q6,794) Total " . $ " 1 'i94 S 4: "S ` Prior to Actions Toda Appropriated Fund Balance $ 16,794 Total if Actions Taken $ 16 794 Section 2: Explanation BA 21 -066 will appropriate General Fund Appropriated Fund Balance to transfer to the Public School Fund. This budget amendment is for accounting purposes only to close the Public School Fund. For approximately 10 years, the Public School Fund was used to account for all public school sales tax revenues, debt payments and county contributions. With the creation of the Debt Service Fund in recent years, the Public School Fund is no longer needed. Adoption of this budget amendment will close the Public School Fund and increase the General Fund Appropriated Fund Balance to $16,794. Section 3: Documentation of Adoption This ordinance shall be effective upon its adoption. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of County Commissioners of New Hanover County, North Carolina, that the Ordinance for Budget Amendment(s) 21 -066 amending the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2021, is adopted. >f April, 2021. os , Chair ATTE 0'4-�Sw� Kyn&eigh G. Crowell, lerk to the Board Exhibit AGENDA: April 19, 2021 B H k X —k k k Page NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE FISCAL YEAR 2021 BUDGET BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of County Commissioners of New Hanover County, North Carolina, that the following Budget Amendment(s) be made to the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2021. Section 1: Details of Budget Amendment Strategic Focus Area: Effective County Management Strategic Objective(s): Deliver quality service at the right time Fund: General Department: Board of Elections Ex enditure: Decrease Increase Total BA 21 -067 Board of Elections Expenditures $ - $ 66 426 $ 66,426 AM Revenue: Decrease I Increase 11 Total BA 21 -067 NC Board of Elections Grant 1 $ 66,42611$ 66,426 AM Prior to Actions To Departmental Budget 1 $ 1973' 99 Total if Actions Taken Is '771E9,725 Section 2: Explanation BA 21 -067 appropriates grant funds from the NC State Board of Elections for the sole purpose of providing a daily bonus to each individual who previously worked at one -stop early voting sites. The Center for Tech and Civic Life, a nonprofit organization tax - exempt under Internal Revenue Code section 501(c)(3), awarded a grant to the State Board of Elections, which is being distributed to all 100 counties for the one -stop bonuses. There is no county match required. These funds must be used to supplement existing county funds for program activities and may not replace county funds that have been appropriated for the same purpose. Section 3: Documentation of Adoption This ordinance shall be effective upon its adoption. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of County Commissioners of New Hanover County, North Carolina, that the Ordinance for Budget Amendment(s) 21 -067 amending the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2021, is adopted. Adopted, this 19th day of April, 2021. rqfso - Bosema , Chair A n K b leigh G. Crow O, Clerk to the Board Exhibit E aOk XUt i page 3 3 AGENDA: April 19, 2021 NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE FISCAL YEAR 2021 BUDGET BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of County Commissioners of New Hanover County, North Carolina, that the following Budget Amendment(s) be made to the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2021. Section 1: Details of Budget Amendment Strategic Focus Area: Superior Public Health & Safety Strategic Objective(s): Sustain the community capacity to prepare for and respond to public safety demands Fund: Justice Assistance Grant Department: Sheriffs Office Ex enditure: Decrease Increase Total BA 21 -069 Supplies $ - $ 38,553 $ 38,553 Total - 73 Revenue: Decrease Increase Total BA 21 -069 2020 Justice Assistance Grant $ - $ 38,553 $ 38,553 Total - ' - - <$ >. :.3&03 S S Prior to Total if Actions Actions Today Taken Departmental Budget 1 $ 75,6921 $ i14 235 Section 2: Explanation BA21 -069 budgets the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant in the amount of $38,553 by the Department of Justice. The City of Wilmington is also funded in the amount of $38,552. The Sheriffs Office will use it's portion to purchase additional Project Lifesaver transmitters, rapid response shields and headset communication devices. No county match is required. Section 3: Documentation of Adoption This ordinance shall be effective upon its adoption. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of County Commissioners of New Hanover County, North Carolina, that the Ordinance for Budget Amendment(s) 21 -069 amending the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2021, is adopted. Adopted, this 19th day of April, 2021. (S ��Y • NORTti > u n- Boseman, Chair O Z r > ATT • esrAe' >s�" Kym leigh G. Crowell Jerk to the Board Fxhihit �t `r NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS Rook Xutl page 3, YWCA STAND AGAINST RACISM PROCLAMATION WHEREAS, all residents regardless of race, creed, or ethnicity deserve to be treated with dignity, respect, compassion, and justice; and WHEREAS, New Hanover County, North Carolina residents value initiatives that will end race -based disparities and make the world a more equitable, inclusive, and dignified place for all to live; and WHEREAS, the New Hanover County Board of Commissioners supports the YWCA in its praiseworthy mission to eliminate racism, empower women, stand up for social justice, help families, and strengthen communities; and WHEREAS, the elimination of racism can be achieved only with the participation of all residents in dialogue, reflection, and action; and WHEREAS, the New Hanover County Board of Commissioners proudly supports the YWCA Lower Cape Fear in celebration of Stand Against Racism, a signature campaign of YWCA USA to build community among those who work for racial justice and to raise awareness about the negative impact of institutional and structural racism in our communities. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED by the New Hanover County Board of Commissioners that April 22 -25, 2021 will be recognized as "YWCA Stand Against Racism Weekend" in New Hanover County. Residents, local businesses, educators, and community and faith -based organizations are encouraged to celebrate diversity and advocate for the elimination of racism. ADOPTED this the 19th day of April, 2021. NEW VER COUN Olson - o sCman, Chair ATTEST: ig kLItAAIA iQn oe Ky b rleigh G. Cr ell, Clerk to the Board Exhibit Book xut 1 page 3' 5 Good morning, and welcome to New Hanover County's State�o the County address. appreciate everyone for tuning in virtually to hear this year's address, as well as those in person. And a special thanks to my wife Angie for being here with me today — Angie, thank you for being my rock, for your sound advice, and your constant encouragement. The world is a better place, and so am I, because of you! <<pause>> As chair of the Board of Commissioners, I am honored to stand before you today with the support of each of my fellow Commissioners, to reflect on the past year — which has been different than any year we have ever experienced. We typically share our State of the County in early February, but we postponed this year's a bit because we were in the height of our vaccination efforts and planning, and April felt like a great month to highlight the work of the county since it is National County Government Month. The theme for this month through the National Association of Counties is "Counties Matter" and that couldn't be more true. <<pause>> New Hanover County delivers vital services to our residents every single day. And COVID -19 has really highlighted the importance of our county government — because we have been on the front lines protecting our community and helping to aid in the recovery of our residents and businesses — since the beginning of the pandemic. <<pause>> Thirteen months ago — on March 18 — we had our first positive case of COVID-19 and the virus was beginning to spread in our community. We quickly declared a state of emergency for New Hanover County on March 20 to ensure we had the resources needed to fight this virus. Now — more than one year later — 18,536 people have tested positive for COVID -19 and 164 of our residents have lost their lives from the virus. We grieve the loss of these loved ones, neighbors, and friends. And I ask that you join me now in a moment of silence to honor and remember them. MOMENT OF SILENCE Over this past year, New Hanover County residents came together as a community to support one another and persevere through the incredible challenges we faced. And your county government has been there every step of the way, continuing to serve and protect you in new and innovative ways. <<pause>> Our Health and Human Services departments have actively provided support and guidance to long -term care facilities, restaurants, and businesses to help keep residents safe and healthy. They've performed contact tracing to help slow the spread of the virus, offered education and guidance for the community, and operated COVID testing sites. <<pause>> County services continued and were offered in new ways. Our museum and library changed their programming to reach students and families at home — offering virtual field trips, interactive online programming, and curbside service. Our parks and attractions pivoted with each new restriction and change, to continue offering important programming and outdoor escapes. New Hanover County 911, Fire Rescue and Sheriff's Office teams continued to keep our community safe and protected, putting their own safety in harm's way at times, but never batting an eye because they are committed and called to serve. <<pause>> We also helped facilitate donations of personal protective equipment for our frontline healthcare heroes, as well as other essential items like food and hygiene products in response to an increased need in the community. The Senior Resource Center expanded nutrition services for seniors and offered drive -thru meals to keep our older adults safe but still connected. Through this effort, 800 meals have been provided each day for our older adults and homebound seniors... And this work continues. <<pause>> New Hanover County helped our community navigate through the Stay at Home orders and other protective measures. We utilized CARES funding to provide a much - needed lifeline for so many in our community, including $1.3 million to assist residents with housing and childcare needs because of the pandemic. And another $1.3 million in grants to 130 locally -owned small businesses — 82 of which were minority and women -owned — so they could retain employees and get through the pandemic. And currently underway is a $7 million emergency rental assistance program that our Social Services Department is administering to support households having trouble paying their rent or utilities. <<pause>> More help is also on the way through the American Rescue Plan, which the county plans to invest in broadband access for families, homeowner assistance, mental health services, and so much more. We are here —for every single person. And I am so proud of that commitment. <<pause>> And when New Hanover County received its first shipment of the COVID -19 vaccine on December 22, we administered our first doses that same day and then our incredible team worked through the holidays to begin our vaccination efforts... and they haven't stopped since. They have worked countless hours to vaccinate our community, beginning with long -term care facilities, healthcare staff, and our older adults — to frontline essential workers, like teachers, childcare staff, law enforcement officers, and more. They have gone into communities, met people where they are, vaccinated hundreds of our homebound seniors, signed residents up for an appointment one -by -one over the phone, partnered with local churches and community organizations — all to ensure our vaccination efforts are equitable and reach every single person in our county. It has been a true collaboration among our departments to do this work, and I am grateful to each and every person who has been involved and made this happen. You are heroes! I want to extend a special thanks to Vice -Chair Hays who advocated for increased supply of the vaccine in our community when those supplies were scarce. I also appreciate your strong support to get our teachers and school staff vaccinated so that we could get kids back in classrooms and ensure teachers were protected. <<pause>> So far, New Hanover County Public Health has administered 49,623 total doses of the vaccine. And through this work and the collaboration with other healthcare partners like the hospital, more than 79,000 people are partially vaccinated and 63,000 are now fully vaccinated. We still have more work to do, and I encourage everyone in our community over the age of 16 to get the vaccine as soon as you can. The vaccines prevent against serious illness and death, and are providing hope that we can return to the people and places we love... that we can move past this pandemic and get back to a sense of normalcy. And most importantly: save lives. <<pause>> While we have faced a lot of challenges over the past year, I believe we have even more to be proud of. In October, the Board of Commissioners made one of the most significant and impactful decisions our community has ever seen, and secured healthcare for generations to come — by joining our county - owned hospital, New Hanover Regional Medical Center, with Novant Health. We conducted an in- depth, transparent exploration process over the course of a year that involved the tremendous work of the Partnership Advisory Group to lead to our decision. I cannot thank them enough for their level of care, thorough research and unanimous recommendations to the Commissioners and hospital Trustees. <<pause>> The hospital partnership became official on February 1st of this year, and our community now has a 1.25- billion - dollar Endowment that will truly change lives. It's going to help our most vulnerable and underserved, and bring significant resources and support to local organizations. I am so excited to see the Endowment begin its work and change our community forever. <<pause>> From the hospital sale, the county created a mental and behavioral health fund that will help expand access to mental health services throughout the county. And also established a county revenue stabilization fund to ensure we can respond to any emergency and remain financially sound. I think our county is poised for a lot of incredible things to come from this partnership and the community -based investments that are to come. <<pause>> We also moved several very important board priorities forward over the past year... We created a diversity and equity office that works directly with our employees and our residents to promote equity and inclusion in all that we do. The work of this team is incredibly important so we can move forward together, and I am proud of the county for taking this initiative. We also: Added and extended free Wi -Fi to many county buildings to increase the public's internet access; Began revamping WAVE transit, in partnership with the city, to become a more on- demand model that serves our residents' needs; Approved the county's Unified Development Ordinance that added new zoning districts to allow for more diversity in development; Began working on a Master Aging Plan to serve our older adults even better; And partnered with the City of Wilmington —through our joint workforce housing committee — on a workforce housing study and action plan — to take real and meaningful steps to improve access to affordable housing in our community. Commissioner Barfield: thank you for helping to keep us focused on the importance of affordable housing. I appreciate you being a strong advocate to keep this as a board priority, and I thank you for your passion and your desire to make a true difference. <<pause>> We are also on our way to further transforming downtown Wilmington through Project Grace, with a redefined vision for the county -owned block. I am excited to see a new design for the site that will allow our public library and Cape Fear Museum to be community- centered with other welcoming amenities and opportunities in the heart of our vibrant downtown. This past year, we broke ground on the Healing Place — a desperately - needed peer -led substance use recovery facility, completed improvements at Echo Farms Park in our joint partnership with the City of Wilmington, finished renovations at the Senior Resource Center, built a new Juvenile Justice Facility, and broke ground on a new Government Center. So even with our keen focus on the health and safety of our community through the pandemic, we have accomplished so much. <<pause>> We are also seeing our county's unemployment rate decreasing — currently at 5.5 percent — after hitting a record high during the pandemic. Job opportunities are growing, and business licenses are increasing with entrepreneurs launching new small businesses. And the county will be doing even more for economic and workforce development through the American Rescue Plan, by investing in local businesses, expanding sewer and water infrastructure, and creating job training opportunities — with a special emphasis on our minority community as well as job training in our local film industry. I believe this will lead to cool and high - paying jobs that will benefit our residents well into the future. And I appreciate the work of all of our business and economic development partners who are doing so much to help us continue these positive trends. <<pause>> I also appreciate the incredible work of our education partners. Cape Fear Community College and UNCW have had a continued focus and perseverance to make sure their students have a top -rate education and are prepared to enter the workforce. And we have enhanced our relationship with New Hanover County Schools over the past year, supporting school staff with bonuses, providing mental health support for students, and increasing our funding to public schools for a total of $116 million. Commissioner Rivenbark: thank you for enhancing this board's focus on the schools. You have helped to reinforce the importance of partnership and the funding opportunities that will help make our schools the best they can be. I appreciate your unwavering support of our students and teachers. We know this year has been incredibly hard for many, and our students and schools have had to adapt and learn in new and different ways. And having students back in school full time is a great accomplishment that we have finally reached! I'm so glad to say that, and to stand in support of our school board for the work they continue to do on behalf of our children. «pause» There is still much to do. So this coming fiscal year, the Board of Commissioners plans to increase funding for our schools even more and will be specifically funding an increase for teacher supplements so that New Hanover County will rank among the very top in the state for teacher supplements. The board feels like this is an important investment, to ensure our students receive the very best education possible and our teachers are appropriately compensated for the work they do each day. We also plan to double the county's allocation for Pre -K in our public schools, to increase the number of county- funded classrooms from three to six — because we know how important Kindergarten readiness is and we want to ensure children have free and equitable access to quality Pre -K. Commissioner Zapple: thank you for your leadership and passion for early education. I appreciate your work in helping this Pre -K expansion happen and ensuring children have every opportunity for success. We are committed to our students, our teachers, and our schools — and that will continue to be a leading priority for this board in the coming yea r. <<pause>> I want to truly thank each of my fellow Commissioners for their tireless dedication to this community. Vice -Chair Deb Hays, Commissioner Jonathan Barfield, Commissioner Bill Rivenbark and Commissioner Rob Zapple: Thank you all for caring so much about the people we serve, for putting your words into action, and for being true servant leaders. I would also like to thank our municipalities — the City of Wilmington, and the towns of Carolina, Kure and Wrightsville beaches, along with the many elected officials and organizations across New Hanover County for your willingness to collaborate with us and improve the lives of our residents. Working together we have been able to address critical issues and move our community and our region forward. And I also want to extend a special thanks to our County Manager Chris Coudriet, County Attorney Wanda Copley, Clerk to the Board Kym Crowell, and every single one of our New Hanover County employees for what you do each and every day. Your commitment, your innovation, and your public service are second to none. You are why Counties Matter, and how we are able to accomplish all that we do. <<pause>> And, finally, thank you to our residents. You have been resilient, supportive, and done so much to protect one another during one of the most challenging years any of us have ever faced. You make New Hanover County what it is, and I am grateful for you. We have so much to be proud of over the past year, and so much to look forward to in the coming year. And I believe as we work together, we will recover, we will help those who need it most, and we will be even stronger and healthier than before. Thank you.