2021-05-17 Regular Meeting
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 35
REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 2021 PAGE 94
ASSEMBLY
The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners met in Regular Session on May 17, 2021, at 9:00 a.m. in
the Assembly Room of the New Hanover County Courthouse, 24 North Third Street, Wilmington, North Carolina.
Members present: Chair Julia Olson-Boseman; Vice-Chair Deb Hays; Commissioner Jonathan Barfield, Jr.;
Commissioner Bill Rivenbark; and Commissioner Rob Zapple.
Staff present: County Manager Chris Coudriet; County Attorney Wanda M. Copley; and Clerk to the Board
Kymberleigh G. Crowell.
INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Pastor Ron McGee, Rock Church, provided the invocation and Chair Olson-Boseman led the audience in the
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA
Chair Olson-Boseman requested a motion to approve the Consent Agenda as presented.
Commissioner Zapple requested that Consent Agenda Item #6: Adoption of Budget Amendments be
removed from the Consent Agenda for further discussion and consideration.
Hearing no further discussion, Chair Olson-Boseman asked for a motion to approve the remaining items on
the Consent Agenda as presented.
Motion: Commissioner Zapple MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chair Hays, to approve the remaining items on the
Consent Agenda as presented. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
CONSENT AGENDA
Approval of Minutes – Governing Body
The Commissioners approved the minutes of the Special Meeting held on April 27, 2021, Agenda Review
Meeting held on April 29, 2021, and the Regular Meeting held on May 3, 2021.
Approval to Amend the 2021 Schedule of Agenda Review and Regular Board of Commissioners Meetings for June
– Governing Body
The Commissioners approved the amendment of the 2021 Schedule of Agenda Review and Regular Board
of Commissioners Meetings for June to move the Regular Meeting slated for June 21, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. to June 22,
2021 at 9:00 a.m.
A copy of the amended schedule is hereby incorporated as part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit
Book XLIII, Page 5.1.
Approval of the New Hanover County Juvenile Crime Prevention Council Funding Recommendation for Fiscal Year
2021-2022 – County Manager
The Commissioners approved the Fiscal Year 2021-2022 JCPC funding in the amount of $92,345 to
Communities in Schools for Teen Court Mediation Programs.
Adoption of Resolution Approving the Renaming of Battle Park to Hanover Pines Nature Park – Parks & Gardens
The Commissioners adopted the resolution to approve the name change from Battle Park to Hanover Pines
Nature Park.
A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XLIII,
Page 5.2.
Adoption of Building Safety Month Proclamation – Building Safety
The Commissioners adopted the proclamation to recognize May 2021 as Building Safety Month in New
Hanover County.
A copy of the proclamation is hereby incorporated as part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book
XLIII, Page 5.3.
Discussion and Adoption of Budget Amendments – Budget
In response to Commissioner Zapple’s question regarding budget amendment 21-073, Senior Resource
Center (SRC) Director Amber Smith explained that the County receives a grant allocation from the North Carolina
Family Caregiver Support Program. It allows the SRC to provide direct family caregiver support for those caring for a
loved one with a cognitive impairment, such as dementia or Alzheimer's. The SRC is also able to provide a variety of
support services.
Hearing no further discussion, Chair Olson-Boseman asked for direction from the Board.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 35
REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 2021 PAGE 95
Motion: Commissioner Zapple MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chair Hays, to adopt the budget amendments as
presented. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Additional information: The Commissioners adopted the following budget amendments which amend the
annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending June 20, 2021: budget amendment 21-071 for Social Services,
budget amendment 21-072 for Public Health, budget amendment 21-073 for the Senior Resource Center, and budget
amendment 21-074 for Tax.
Copies of the budget amendments are hereby incorporated as part of the minutes and are contained in
Exhibit Book XLIII, Page 5.4.
REGULAR ITEMS OF BUSINESS
COMMUNITY CHILD PROTECTION TEAM ANNUAL REPORT AND APPOINTMENT OF AT-LARGE MEMBERS
Judge J. H. Corpening, II, Chair, and Neesha Allen, Co-Chair, of the Community Child Protection Team
(CCPT) thanked the Board for the opportunity to present the CCPT report as required by state law. The CCPT is a
multidisciplinary organization that is appointed by statute and by the Board to evaluate gaps in services that effect
children. Judge Corpening and Ms. Allen presented the CCPT accomplishments, gaps, and goals for the coming year:
2020 Accomplishments:
Community Education on Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect: Training provided to Sexual Abuse
Response Team, Smart Start, New Hanover County Schools, law enforcement, Coastal Horizons,
and NHC Foster Parent Association on how to recognize, respond, and report child abuse and
neglect
Monthly CCPT case reviews: Despite the Covid-19 pandemic the CCPT team reviewed eleven
complex child welfare involved families to formulate strategies to address gaps in services and
barriers to child protection
Infant safe sleeping tips: Pamphlet updated and distributed to caregivers of infants
Lack of consistent, accessible, effective mental health and developmental disability services:
Difficulty accessing inpatient treatment for stabilization
Limitations for coverage by both Medicaid and private insurance
Need for more school based mental health services
Limited accessible services for caregivers and children with co-occurring mental health and
developmental disabilities
Upon placement of children in DSS custody, parents lose Medicaid coverage, resulting in lack of
access to critical services
Recommendations:
Expand private insurance coverage for mental health services
Expand state funding for mental health and developmental disability services
Improved oversight of Medicaid providers by Trillium
Provide all schools with mental health therapists
Approve Medicaid expansion
Substance Misuse-Involved Families:
Prevalent contributory factor in child maltreatment resulting in:
Child fatalities (including fatalities resulting from unsafe sleep practices)
Parental incarceration
Infants born addicted to controlled substances
Neglected and unsupervised children
Recommendations:
Community awareness through education regarding intervention and safe sleep practices
Continue collaboration with community partners to develop policy and procedures to ensure
child safety
Advocate for legislation mandating improved oversight of medication providers and effective
assessment and treatment services
As Covid-19 impacts are lessened, clinical services should return to face-to-face contact
Advocate for legislation granting child welfare social workers access to the NC Controlled
Substance Reporting System (CSRS) to enable accurate assessment of the extent of a parent’s
use of prescription drugs and the impact of that use on child safety
Lack of Affordable Non-Subsidized Housing:
Working poor are not eligible for housing assistance
Numerous affordable housing complexes damaged by Hurricane Florence resulted in
the displacement of hundreds of families; those units have not been repaired or replaced
Lack of affordable, adequate housing in New Hanover County, results in:
Families forced to live in unsafe neighborhoods
Multiple families residing in a single residence
Homelessness
Recommendations:
Provide funding to community agencies to develop innovative housing initiatives and solutions
that meet the needs of all our populations, particularly the working poor
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 35
REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 2021 PAGE 96
Require strict enforcement of housing regulations
Advocate for increased federal housing subsidies
Service Barriers for Undocumented Families:
Systemic barriers exist for undocumented families to access services to meet the basic needs of
their children including: Medical care; dental care; mental health treatment; and housing
Recommendations:
Ensure that basic needs for all children are met, regardless of citizenship, through advocacy at
the local and state level
Judge Corpening and Ms. Allen thanked the Commissioners for all they do as leaders in this community, for
their continued commitment to children in this community, and for the innovative ways in looking at how to make
things better for the children. He requested the appointment of the following at-large members to the CCPT for the
ensuing year: Lauren Daley, Executive Director, Domestic Violence Shelter and Services, Inc.; Robert J. Speight,
th
5 Judicial District Chief Court Counselor Division Juvenile Justice, NC Department of Public Safety; Amy Feath,
Executive Director, Carousel Center; Chris Preston, New Hanover County Youth Empowerment Services Manager,
New Hanover County Community Justice Services; and Steven Still, Director, New Hanover County Emergency
Management.
The Commissioners thanked Judge Corpening and Ms. Allen for the work the CCPT is doing and for what it
is accomplishing every year to help children.
Hearing no further discussion, Chair Olson-Boseman asked for direction from the Board to appoint Lauren
Daley, Robert J. Speight, Amy Feath, Chris Preston, and Steven Still to the Community Child Protection Team for one-
year terms expiring May 2022.
Motion: Commissioner Barfield MOVED, SECONDED by Vice-Chair Hays, to appoint Lauren Daley, Robert J. Speight,
Amy Feath, Chris Preston, and Steven Still as recommended to the Community Child Protection Team for one-year
terms expiring May 2022. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
CONSIDERATION AND ADOPTION OF THE 2021-2026 NEW HANOVER COUNTY MASTER AGING PLAN (MAP) AND
THE OLDER AMERICANS MONTH PROCLAMATION
Senior Resource Center Director Amber Smith stated that New Hanover County has developed its first ever
five-year Master Aging Plan (MAP) that will help shape the resources and services for older adults who have a wide
range of needs, now and into the future. The MAP was developed from the community needs assessment,
community focus groups, the work groups’ feedback, as well as population data. The MAP contains four focus areas
that include broad goals and objectives with corresponding implementation strategies. The 2021-2026 MAP will help
ensure New Hanover County has a comprehensive and coordinated approach that supports and fosters lifelong
community engagement and well-being. Ms. Smith and SRC Social Worker Supervisor Andrew Zeldin presented the
following overview of the MAP:
New Hanover County’s 2021-2026 Master Aging Plan:
Vision Statement: Ensure all older adults in New Hanover County can access equitable resources
that promote inclusiveness, resilience, fosters a healthy lifestyle and improved quality of life
through the Senior Resource Center and community partners.
Connect, Create, and Empower:
Connect our older adults with the community and with one another, ensuring they have the
right resources at the right time;
Create a guide that is inclusive, diverse, age-friendly, and strategic that offers more
opportunities for our older adults to create their own journey and live well; and
Empower our residents to contribute to the community, stay active and thrive here in New
Hanover County.
Aging in America:
Planning for Growth and Healthy Aging:
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 35
REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 2021 PAGE 97
Community Assessment and Interview Results:
Assess to support services (nutrition, home repair, wellness activities, health support)
Nutrition, transportation, housing, mental health, technology, and volunteer and job training
opportunities
The Master Aging Plan process consists of three phases:
Phase 1: Engaged the community at-large (survey, focus groups, key informant interviews, and
large virtual community meetings) to gather information and help identify priority areas for
improvement.
Phase 2: Established four (4) MAP focus areas that developed action plans that addresses each
prioritized area. Work groups met five to six times between February and April 2021.
Focus Areas: Social Engagement and Inclusion, Complete Communities and Accessibility,
Superior Public Health and Wellness, and Community Organizations and Services
Phase 3: Compiled a five-year plan to be presented to Board of County Commissioners in May
2021.
The four focus areas, eight goals, and 25 objectives are as follows:
Social Engagement and Inclusion Focus Area:
Goals:
Goal 1: Diverse and accessible opportunities for older adults and their caregivers to
participate and be engaged in their community.
Goal 2: Older adults are known as valuable members and resources of the
community.
Objectives:
Enhance and expand learning opportunities for the aging population by proving
access for social, physical, and mental engagement.
Improve communication through widespread contact and partnerships.
Improve and enhance inclusive services for underserved communities.
Complete Communities and Accessibility Focus Area:
Goals:
Goal 3: Transportation - safe, reliable, age-friendly, affordable public and on-demand
transportation is available for our seniors to all areas of the County, with options for
out of county travel.
Goal 4: Housing - a variety of affordable, quality housing options located in areas that
are easily accessible to necessary resources and services for daily living.
Goal 5: Outdoor Spaces - enhanced ADA compliant, age-friendly, outdoor spaces are
accessible, safe, walkable and have convenient access to parking, benches,
restrooms, and technology.
Transportation Objectives:
Establish transportation options are safe, reliable, age-friendly, and affordable.
Ensure transportation options meet the needs of aging adults.
Housing Objectives:
Preserve existing housing for aging in-place.
Increase the variety and number of affordable housing options.
Build affordable housing communities near necessary services and resources.
Develop alternative housing options.
Outdoor Space Objectives:
Provide diversified options that improve neighborhood connectivity and accessibility.
Create universally designed spaces that improves opportunities for older adults to
participate in activities in public places.
Implement regular programmed activities and provide fixed amenities for older
adults in public spaces.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 35
REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 2021 PAGE 98
Superior Public Health and Wellness Focus Area:
Goals:
Goal 6: Necessary health and wellness services available, accessible, culturally
appropriate, and affordable to all.
Objectives:
Expand access to community-based health services for seniors.
Improve collaboration with medical providers including primary care and specialty
providers, health system, Senior Resource Center, Area Agency on Aging, other
community partners, and free clinics.
Provide behavioral health support and programming to older adults and their
caregivers.
Expand services to help older adults age in their homes and communities.
Address the problem of food insecurity and malnutrition among older adults.
Support planning and education for and fulfillment of individual goals in all stages of
aging process.
Community Organizations and Services Focus Area:
Goals:
Goal 7: Older adults, their families, and other consumers in New Hanover County are
empowered to make informed decisions and to easily access available services and
supports.
Goal 8: Older adults who are seeking paid employment, meaningful volunteer
experience, and lifelong learning and education are connected with a diverse array
of opportunities.
Objectives:
Increase the accessibility of information about resources, programs, and services for
older adults in New Hanover County.
Decrease the digital divide in New Hanover County.
Provide general information related to finances, long-term care insurance, and estate
planning to older adults within New Hanover County.
Establish effective pathways for older adults, and the people that serve them, to
secure fairly compensated employment, including traditional and alternative
options.
Promote the value of an experienced workforce to local employers.
Expand enriching volunteer opportunities for older adults.
Promote increased opportunities for education and professional training in aging
issues relevant to New Hanover County.
Next Steps:
Recommend adoption of the 2021-2026 NHC Master Aging Plan
Accountability: Monitor the goals, objectives, and strategies. Build key performance indicators
to track progress for transparency and ensure the MAP is making progress.
Communication: Present MAP progress each May during Older Americans Month
Request the Board of Commissioners to proclaim May 2021 as Older Americans Month
Ms. Smith reiterated that this is a plan for the entire County, not just the SRC, and community partners are
going to be relied on to help make the MAP successful.
In response to Board questions, Ms. Smith stated that location options are being looked at for the next SRC.
Based on the heat map there are many older adults already in the southern end of the County, but the northern
portion is going to have tremendous growth and will look quite different in the next five or ten years. There is a
satellite site in the Castle Hayne area and that has been successful. The satellite site is based out of a local church
and operates three days a week and it has been established that there is a need in that area for the site.
As to the SRC having electronic devices seniors can check out, Ms. Smith stated the SRC does not have the
ability to provide that service as of now. However, a grant was recently written for devices specifically to help older
adults. She is hopeful the grant will be awarded to the SRC via the application made by its 501(c)3 organization.
In response to additional Board questions, Ms. Smith stated that the SRC is a wonderful place. It is diverse
in not only the people that participate, but the level of activities as well as the programs and services that are offered.
There are a wide variety of classes to take, and it depends on how active a person wants to be. There are courses
such as a drone class, aerobics class, crafts, learning a new computer skill, etc. There is also Medicare counseling
assistance. People can have lunch there, play cards, and in general have the socialization connectivity that is a large
part of staying connected and engaged. The SRC also offers some transportation services and a wide variety of
volunteer opportunities.
Hearing no further discussion, Chair Olson-Boseman asked for direction from the Board.
Motion: Chair Olson-Boseman MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Barfield, to adopt the 2021-2026 New Hanover
County Master Aging Plan and the proclamation recognizing May 2021 as Older Americans Month in New Hanover
County. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 35
REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 2021 PAGE 99
A copy of the proclamation is hereby incorporated as part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book
XLIII, Page 5.5.
PRESENTATION OF THE FISCAL YEAR 2021-2022 RECOMMENDED BUDGET AND FISCAL YEAR 2022-2026 CAPITAL
IMPROVEMENT PLAN
County Manager Coudriet presented the Fiscal Year (FY) 2021-2022 Recommended Budget and Fiscal Year
(FY) 2022-2026 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for New Hanover County (NHC) highlighting the following:
FY 2021-2022 Recommended Budget: Advancing the Board of Commissioners’ priorities through
strategic investments and fiscal discipline:
Recommended Budget Framework:
Priorities set by the Board through its adopted strategic plan:
Superior Education and Workforce
Superior Public Health and Safety
Intelligent Growth and Economic Development
Effective County Management
Strong Financial Performance
Revenue parameters set by the Board through plan and policy:
Minimize impact of taxes and fees
Maintain fund balance position within policy goal of 18-21%
Spending Recommendations for Major Funds:
All funds: $457 million
General Fund: $382 million
Environmental Management Fund: $23.3 million
Fire Services District Fund: $19.1 million
Stormwater Services Fund: $665,164
Other funds represent balance of the total $457 million
New Hanover County Property Revaluation:
Adopted County policy of every four (4) years
Revaluation was effective January 1, 2021
Prior revaluation was effective January 1, 2017
On average 33% increase in the taxable base
Property value appeals are underway
Taxable base of $47.9 billion assumes successful appeals by property owners
Revenue Neutral Tax Rate:
Calculation of tax rate that would generate the same revenue accounting for growth
Provides comparison of tax rate before and after revaluation
Rate published with the budget document per NC General Statute:
Revenue Neutral Rate: 42.50
Proposed Rate: 47.5
General Fund Revenues:
Ad valorem: $227 million:
Tax base: $47.9 billion (33.4% increase)
Ad valorem rate of 47.5 cents ($0.4220 General Fund, $0.0530 Debt Service Fund)
Sales taxes: $85.4 million: Assumes 6% growth, compared to 4% for FY20-21
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 35
REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 2021 PAGE 100
General Fund Expenditures:
New Hanover County Schools:
Current expense: $3,434 per pupil:
Increases average daily membership (ADM) rate to reach #1 in teacher salary
supplements: $9,000 average
$91.9 million total (14.68% increase)
Capital: $3.7 million
Transfers between purpose/function of 10% or greater will require Board approval
Assumes 26,796 students across the traditional k-12 system and charter schools
Debt service: $25 million
Total appropriation: $121.5 million
Nearly one-third of General Fund budget
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 35
REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 2021 PAGE 101
Cape Fear Community College:
Operating: $10.95 million
Capital: $0 requested/recommended
Debt service: $11.5 million
Total: $22.5 million
General Fund Strategic Enhancements:
Superior Education and Workforce:
Teacher support incentives: $166,200
Four new teaching fellow scholarships: $28,000
Three additional pre-k classrooms: $487,422
Teacher salary supplements: $22.6 million
Effective County Management:
Capital repair plan: $1 million
Pay and classification study: $125,000
Government Center digitization: $280,000
Superior Public Health and Safety:
Emergency Operations Center (EOC)/911 Communications tower: $280,000
Emergency Logistics Center: $7.4 million
Emergency Operation Plan (EOP) revision project: $100,000
POD Ready Meals MRE stock: $105,083
Detective/Vice facility replacement design: $121,000
13 new Sheriff’s Office positions: $1 million
Seven additional Health and Human Services positions: $360,000
Human Services Customer Experience: $787,065
Non-County Agencies:
Non-County Agencies – Human Services:
Non-County Agency Funding Committee Recommendation: $930,774 for 31 agencies and
34 programs
$278,231 for year two of three of the Social Impact Fund pilot program
Additional $126,500 for four programs that transitioned to vendor status in the current
year
County Manager Coudriet requested that Non-County Agency Funding Committee member Randy Reeves
present the information on the Committee’s recommendation. Mr. Reeves provided the following overview of the
Non-County Agency Funding Committee process and recommendations:
Non-County Agency Funding Committee:
Committee Members: Gail Eddie, Elizabeth DeBiasi, Neal Lewis, Randy Reeves, Fred Gainey,
Buddy Brooks, and Shane Hartley
Committee steps to improve process:
Survey non-county agencies
Modify applications based on key learnings
Training to non-county agencies on applications and process
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 35
REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 2021 PAGE 102
Review Process:
Read/review applications
Review of agency mid-year performance reports and funding history
Determined appropriate buckets and scoring rubric
Individual scoring and questions to agencies
Responses and final aggregated scores
Discussion and allocation decisions
Evaluation:
Programs scored individually by committee members and aggregated
Discussion about areas of difference in scoring and key drivers
Objective rating instrument/rubric:
Seven pre-identified criteria
Each criteria scored on a four-point scale
Equally weighted (max score 28)
Subjective Rating:
Overall rating that allows committee to capture other attributes not easily quantifiable or
that may not be broadly applicable
Scored on a four-point scale (max score four)
Fund this:
Salaries for staff directly providing services to clients/patients/participants, etc.
Supplies, tools, contract services, and other materials for staff to deliver programs
Organizations that deliver a program or service
Not that:
Administrative salaries/administrative overhead
Marketing dollars
Capital expenditures (buildings/ vehicles)
Intermediaries/pass through organizations (receive dollars and then redistribute it to
other organizations)
Funding Recommendations:
Next Steps:
Survey non-county agencies re: process; incorporate feedback into FY23 process
Modify non-county agency application based on key learnings
Review scoring rubric and consider changes to evaluation criteria
Continue training for non-county agencies on the application process and in-year
reporting
Conduct site visits with non-county agencies (depending on COVID-19 restrictions)
Set due dates and calendar for FY23 process
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 35
REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 2021 PAGE 103
In response to Board questions, Mr. Reeves stated the committee recognizes the organizations that have
returned each year and past performance is reviewed. Some of those organizations have been moved into vendor
status so they do not have to come back every year for a three-year period. This year every agency was asked if they
received PPE money/Covid funding. Some agencies were proficient at being able to get the funding while smaller
agencies did not have the wherewithal to do so. The committee did not want to penalize the smaller agencies that
could not obtain large amounts of PPE/Covid funding. The committee could only fund 92% of the total dollars asked
for so the 90% level might be 100% next year. He thinks one year the top third were funded 100%. The middle third,
a lower percentage, and the bottom third, a lower percentage and outliers that did not get funded because all they
were asking for was marketing dollars. The percentage changes every year based on how much is allocated by the
Board and the committee’s job is to make the numbers work. Additional questions are asked of agencies, if needed,
to gain clarification and/or additional information after the presentations. Committee members want to make sure
they are being good stewards of the money and addressing as many of the funding requests as possible.
Chair Olson-Boseman thanked Mr. Reeves for the presentation. County Manager Coudriet continued the
presentation as follows:
General Fund Strategic Enhancements:
Intelligent Growth and Economic Development:
Digital inclusion access technology: $70,000
Economic outlook study: $60,000
Northern Regional Park Trail, Phase 2: $620,000
Hanover Pines Nature Park: $2.3 million
North and South College Road trail designs: $1.14 million
Economic Development Agencies:
$181,000 for year one of a three-year plan with the Chamber of Commerce for business
retention, expansion, and recruitment
$208,600 for Wilmington Business Development
$75,000 for Wilmington Downtown Inc.
$133,692 for the Wilmington Regional Film Commission
$70,000 for an incentive payment for National Gypsum
$25,000 for the Cucalorus Film Foundation
Capital Planning:
Five-year Capital Improvement Plan for General Fund: $12.4 million for FY21-22
Capital Outlay for General Fund:
$5.2 million
Additional capital contribution to public schools: $3.7 million
Leverages historic interest rates and AAA bond ratings
Environmental Management Fund:
$48 per ton tip fee (no change for five fiscal years)
Capital projects: $10.7 million
Capital outlay: $1 million (vehicle and equipment replacement)
Fire Services District Fund:
Revenues:
Revenue neutral tax rate: 6.11 cents
Recommended tax rate: 7.25 cents per $100 of value (.50 decrease)
Expenses:
Capital projects: $835,000
Capital outlay: $1.7 million (improvements, vehicle, and equipment replacement)
Stormwater Services:
Second year of the stormwater program in the unincorporated county
Annual $12 Equivalent Residential Unit (ERU) Stormwater Services fee to cover debt and
repayment to the General Fund (not ARP eligible)
American Rescue Plan (ARP) Eligible Expenses:
Cost to maintain and treat stormwater
Defers bulk of residential fee of $67.80 ($5.65 per month) to FY22-23
Personnel:
32 new full-time positions recommended for the General Fund
One (1) new part-time position recommended for the Environmental Management Fund
One (1) new full-time position recommended for the Fire Services District Fund
Market: 2.9% or $1,583
1% Merit Pool
2.5% 401(k) contribution
$1.5 million salary lag
American Rescue Plan:
$800,000 FY21-22 requests absorbed by ARP funds:
Workforce Renter Assistance Pilot Program
Apprenticeship Program
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 35
REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 2021 PAGE 104
Four (4) positions supporting Superior Public Health and Safety (3) and Strong Financial
Performance (1) functions
FY 21-22 Recommended Budget in Summary:
Minimizes the tax burden while sustaining and enhancing the Board’s adopted strategic
priorities
Currently achieves #1 in the state for teacher salary supplements: $9,000 average
Uses ARP funds first
Maintains tipping fee at $48 per ton for fifth fiscal year
Levies a $12 annual ($1 per month) stormwater services fee on developed, unincorporated
parcels
Next Steps:
Public hearings scheduled for Monday, June 7, 2021
Board debate and direction to staff
Budget adoption between Monday, June 7, 2021 and Tuesday, June 22, 2021
Chair Olson-Boseman recognized New Hanover County Schools (NHCS) Board of Education Chair Stefanie
Adams to make remarks. Chair Adams expressed her appreciation and gratitude on behalf of NHCS for the Board’s
funding support of students and teachers. Due to what is being provided, NHCS is expecting to not only keep the
best teachers but also to recruit more to this area.
Chair Olson-Boseman thanked County Manager Coudriet for the presentation and opened the floor to
Board discussion.
Commissioner Zapple stated that he wants to make sure it is understood that only those who live in the
unincorporated county will be paying the stormwater utility fee. County Manager Coudriet stated to provide even
more clarity, the stormwater utility fee will only be charged to the parcels that have been developed in the
unincorporated county.
Commissioner Barfield expressed appreciation to County Manager Coudriet and staff for the work they
have done to draft the budget and looks forward to more conversations on it. He sees a tax rate that would
accomplish the goals of the County without the undue pressure when it comes to salary lag and departments having
enough staff. He also appreciates staff’s efforts to have the County prepared for the unexpected, to provide added
support for New Hanover County Schools, including the increased teaching scholarships, and provide numerous
services to its citizens.
Commissioner Rivenbark stated that more work needs to be done to get students to apply for the teaching
scholarships so New Hanover County can generate its own teachers for the future.
A brief discussion was held about a recent meeting that Vice-Chair Hays and Commissioner Zapple had with
NHCS Board of Education Vice-Chair Nelson Beaulieu and Superintendent Dr. Foust to discuss plans and strategies
to match up to having the highest paid teachers in the state through the supplement. Dr. Foust stated that he agreed
with Commissioner Zapple’s comments. The goal, and in speaking with recruiters, is that there needs to be a plan to
recruit diverse populations to come here and teach. A preliminary plan is being put together for Historically Black
Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), talking with the deans of the schools, and making sure NHCS provides the right
people to visit HBCUs, etc. This is not an attempt to fill a quota. The goal is to make individuals feel welcomed when
they enter NHCS buildings. The goal of the new supplement is to have highly effective teachers in every classroom.
That means making sure growth is being seen in every school. There is no reason this school district should be ranked
th
17 in the state. It should be in the top five and everything that is here is pointed in the right direction. Accountability
measures must be put in place to show that what NHCS is offering is top notch. If we are asking to be the best, we
must make sure that what is being presented to parents, teachers, and communities is the best, not just lip service.
Dr. Foust further stated that should the Board want to see where NHCS is, data-wise, he and his team will be glad to
share the information. A recruitment package is going to be put together at the next NHCS Board of Education
meeting and that opportunity will be shown to the Board as well.
Commissioner Zapple thanked Dr. Foust for providing the proficiency level for each school and that he feels
the information provides a benchmark that can be revisited a year from now. What everyone wants to see is an
increase in proficiency at all levels in each school and he looks forward to seeing that happen.
Vice-Chair Hays stated that the meeting was truly enlightening as it is not only the proficiency of the overall
school system, but also each individual school and each individual teacher. The goal is to make sure NHCS is
graduating the best and the brightest, so students can do whatever they want to do. It is also critically important for
citizens and in particular, parents, to understand what NHCS has in place to move to the number one school district
in the state as well as the nation.
Vice-Chair Nelson Beaulieu stated that he has absolutely no issues with the recommended budget. He
understands the Board wants to hear if he has any concerns. The big concern that he has is the County needs to
change its motto from “The model of good governance” to “The model of great governance.” This a great budget.
To hear County Manager Coudriet’s presentation on per pupil funding and to hear the intent of this Board to make
teachers the number one paid teachers in the state is wonderful. It is not just about the supplements. The support
has been nonstop since this Board took office. From making sure that teachers got vaccinated, adding the extra
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 35
REGULAR MEETING, MAY 17, 2021 PAGE 105
mental health pieces, the focus on pre-k, and the extra student teacher scholarships, the Board has proven time and
again that it is here. A lot of boards of education across the state will say the hardest job they have is saying “please”
for the last six months. He has the privilege of saying thank you, thank you, thank you. He is going to make sure that
every citizen in this County knows that this Board is dedicated to this school system. He expressed appreciation for
the faith the Board has shown in the leadership in the County, and stated that it will be worth every penny.
Chair Olson-Boseman stated that it has been a happy day for her. She has been fighting for teacher pay for
a long time. The Master Aging Plan was her first priority and then teacher pay was her next number one priority. She
expressed appreciation and gratitude to the Board for the support and for working together to make this happen.
Vice-Chair Hays thanked the Board for its vision and the staff for the investment being made into each
citizen which is what this budget represents.
COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS
Appointment to the New Hanover County Commission for Women
Chairman Olson-Boseman reported that there is one vacancy on the New Hanover County Commission for
Women with one applicant eligible for reappointment and twelve applicants eligible for appointment.
Commissioner Barfield nominated April Scott for reappointment. Commissioner Zapple seconded the
nomination.
Hearing no further nominations, Chair Olson-Boseman called for a vote on the nomination on the floor.
Vote Results: The Board voted UNANIMOUSLY to reappoint April Scott to the New Hanover County Commission for
Women to serve a three-year term with the term to expire May 31, 2024.
A brief discussion was held about expanding the membership of the committee. Clerk to the Board Crowell
confirmed that to expand the membership, the bylaws would have to be amended by the Board and the Wilmington
City Council. Vice-Chair Hays and Commissioner Zapple were asked to speak with City Council members about it.
PUBLIC COMMENT ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS
Chair Olson-Boseman stated that no one signed up to speak on non-agenda items.
ADDITIONAL AGENDA ITEMS OF BUSINESS
A brief discussion was held about the recent incident at Long Leaf Park. Parks and Gardens Director Tara
Duckworth stated she has worked with the Sheriff’s Office to form a team, like the school resource officers, which
will be comprised of six deputies that would comprehensively be in the park system, not just at Long Leaf Park or
Ogden Park as they are currently placed. This will create a continual presence, and that team would have an
opportunity to get to know the people in the parks, etc. A similar thing was done when she worked for the City of
Wilmington and was based at Greenfield Lake. It is something that is customary practice and is done in and larger
communities. The team would include the deputies and all their necessary equipment, which is approximately
$665,000 for the first year. The recurring cost is approximately 50% of the first-year total for personnel. The other
50% of the first-year cost will be for outfitting and preparing personnel. She confirmed that this resource team would
be for the 15 parks in the County system and would also have a presence at events, etc as they already do.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, Chair Olson-Boseman adjourned the meeting at 11:23 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Kymberleigh G. Crowell
Clerk to the Board
Please note that the above minutes are not a verbatim record of the New Hanover County Board of Commissioners
meeting. The entire proceedings are available online at www.nhcgov.com.