2024-04-01 RM Exhibits2024 State of the County Exhibit
Book e..a Pagel-AL-1
Ladies and gentlemen, good evening.
As Chair of the New Hanover County Board of
Commissioners, it is my honor to stand before you today
to present the State of our County.
This evening is not just about reflecting on our
accomplishments, but also about envisioning the bright
future we are building together.
First, I would like to express my deep appreciation to my
colleagues on the Board:
-Vice-Chair LeAnn Pierce
-Commissioner Jonathan Barfield, Jr.
-Commissioner Dane Scalise
2024 State of the County
Your commitment, ideas, and collaborative spirit have
been a major driving force behind our success.
I also want to take a moment to remember our dear friend
Deb Mays.
We lost Commissioner Hays unexpectedly last year
shortly after our last State of the County.
As a board, we honor her spirit and passion for this
community and hope that we continue her legacy of
service in all that we do.
I'd like to also acknowledge our state and local elected
officials, whose advocacy and support have directly
benefitted our county.
And to our municipal partners the City of Wilmington,
Carolina Beach, Kure Beach, and Wrightsville Beach
your positive impact on our county cannot be overstated.
2024 State of the County
I must also commend the dedication and expertise of our
county staff.
-County Manager Chris Coudriet,
-County Attorney Jordan Smith,
-and Clerk to the Board Kym Crowell,
Your leadership has been a beacon guiding us through
challenges and opportunities alike.
To all 2,064 dedicated county employees, I want to say
thank you.
No matter how many times I say it, it can't be said
enough.
Thank you for all you do to support our community.
You are the reason New Hanover County is safe, healthy,
secure and thriving.
2024 State of the County
Tonight, we gather not just as public officials and staff,
but as a community of over 234,000 residents.
Our county is home to people from diverse backgrounds,
with an array of aspirations.
It is this unique blend that has shaped our robust
economy, boasting an unemployment rate well below the
national average.
We have become a sought-after destination for both
business and pleasure, thanks to the quality of life that we
have nurtured together.
This evening, let us celebrate the strides we have made,
acknowledge the challenges we face, and reaffirm our
commitment to a future filled with promise and
opportunity.
2024 State of the County
As we reflect on the past year, it's important to recognize
the remarkable achievements that have shaped our
community. This success is a testament to our collective
efforts and strategic planning.
I'll begin by noting our strong financial position. For the
11 th year in a row, Moody's Investor Services and
Standard & Poor's have once again reaffirmed our Triple -
A bond rating.
This distinction is shared by only 80 counties across the
nation and speaks to our diligent fiscal management.
It puts us in a favorable position as we finance crucial
projects, such as Project Grace, ultimately saving
taxpayers millions.
2024 State of the County
Additionally, New Hanover County received two national
awards recognizing excellence in budgeting and financial
reporting last year, underscoring our commitment to fiscal
stewardship.
At the heart of everything we do is our newly adopted
five-year strategic plan, guiding us through 2028.
This comprehensive roadmap, built to meet the needs of
our residents, renews our dedication to:
-workforce and economic development,
-community safety and well-being,
-and sustainable land use and environmental stewardship.
Our county's economic landscape is flourishing.
This is because of our strategic partnerships, particularly
with Wilmington Business Development and the
Wilmington Chamber of Commerce.
2024 State of the County
We've seen more than 15 project announcements in the
Greater Wilmington Region since 2019, including
investments from globally recognized companies.
Activity also continues at a steady pace along the
industrial corridor of U.S. Highway 421.
The recent $1.9 million in performance -based incentives
has attracted businesses that have significantly invested in
our community, creating over a thousand jobs.
There are more than 100 businesses between the Isabel
Holmes Bridge and the Pender County line because of our
strategic investments.
You'll likely see even more projects on this corridor in
the not -too -distant future.
These product development initiatives position New
Hanover County -- and the region -- for job creation and
economic investment well into the next generation.
2024 State of the County
Also reflecting our region's growing economic strength is
the remarkable expansion of Wilmington International
Airport.
Last year ILM was the fastest growing airport in North
Carolina and the 4th fastest growing airport in the entire
United States.
To keep up with all the growth, the airport has announced
a 5-year, $185 million capital plan.
And no local tax dollars will be used.
We also know that workforce housing is a critical issue in
our community and your Commissioners have taken
decisive steps to address it.
We've committed to investing no less than $ 15 million
over five years in workforce housing initiatives.
2024 State of the County
Last year, we invested $3 million that will create or repair
274 households in our community.
But it's not just about building houses.
It's about creating safe homes for hundreds of families,
which will provide stability and foster community growth.
You may have heard about the 'Last Frontier' project to
extend public utilities to the northern part of the county.
But it's much more than an infrastructure development;
it's a catalyst for economic growth and community
enhancement.
By expanding access to public utilities, we are paving the
way for new business opportunities, improved fire
protection services, more affordable housing options, and
overall community development.
This initiative is particularly significant as it addresses
some of the most pressing needs of our growing county
2024 State of the County
and shows proactive planning for the changing needs of
our residents.
A safe community is the foundation of a prosperous
county.
Our initiatives in public safety, including the
enhancement of emergency response systems demonstrate
our unwavering commitment to the well-being of every
resident.
I'll also note that our Fire Rescue Team is one of only 300
agencies around the world to achieve Internationally
Accredited Agency status with the Center for Public
Safety Excellence.
But our focus also extends beyond the immediate
response to fostering a supportive environment where
residents feel connected and protected.
2024 State of the County
In our ongoing commitment to community well-being, we
have recently taken a significant step in addressing mental
health and substance use disorders.
The county has awarded $990,000 to six local programs,
part of our $6.8 million budget for this fiscal year, to
increase capacity in these critical areas.
This funding, from the national Opioid Settlement Funds
and our own Mental health and Substance Use Disorder
Fund, will support housing services, treatment,
community outreach, and employment services.
This is a clear reflection of our strategy to enhance local
services and support the safety and well-being of our
citizens.
In healthcare, we've also made significant strides.
e are grateful for the partnerships that will result in the
opening of two Michael Jordan family clinics.
This is a leap forward in making healthcare accessible to
all.
Our partnership with Novant Health, especially the
neurosciences institute, is a testament to our commitment
to providing cutting -edge care.
Another shining example of this collaboration is our
recent initiative with Cape Fear Community College
involving the purchase and upgrade of the Bank of
America building to expand healthcare educational
facilities.
By making room for more nursing and allied health
programs, we're not only investing in the physical
infrastructure but also in the future of our community's
health sector and job market.
2024 State of the County
Furthermore, our partnership with Terra Power and GE
Hitachi Nuclear Energy in advancing nuclear technology
and training is another testament to our commitment to
workforce development.
Cape Fear Community College's role in providing training
in nuclear technology ensures that our workforce is ready
for these high-tech opportunities right here in New
Hanover County.
In our local schools, an area where our commitment has
been both steady and impactful, let's look at the facts:
Since 2006, our county has invested over $273 million in
the construction and maintenance of school facilities.
We've built new schools, like Porter's Neck Elementary
and Holly Shelter Middle School.
2024 State of the County
For the 2024 fiscal year, we allocated $94 million to
support school operations, amounting to $3,434 per
student.
This significant investment places us among the top
counties in North Carolina for per -student funding.
Despite maintaining a tax rate of 45 cents per $100 of
value — one of the lowest in the state we've consistently
prioritized substantial funding for our schools.
Our support extends beyond infrastructure; it includes
$1.9 million for pre-K programs, $2.1 million for school
nurses, $3.5 million for mental health therapists in
schools, and $4.1 million for school resource officers.
Overall, our total contribution to public schools this year
is approximately $140 million, translating to around
$5,229 per student.
2024 State of the County
I want to be clear: your County Commissioners have
stood firmly behind our schools and our track record
speaks for itself.
The commitment of $140 million this year is more than
just a figure; it's a testament to our unwavering support
for education.
These initiatives in education and workforce development
are critical for preparing our residents for the jobs of
tomorrow.
They exemplify our dedication to creating a community
that excels not just in commerce, but in educational
opportunities and innovation, laying the groundwork for a
prosperous future in New Hanover County.
For environmental stewardship, this year has seen a
significant focus on protecting and enhancing our coastal
treasures.
2024 State of the County
Recognizing the importance of our beaches not just as
scenic destinations but as vital barriers against coastal
storms, we have worked closely with our beach towns and
state and federal representatives to secure the needed
funding for extensive protection efforts.
Projects like the recent nourishment of Wrightsville
Beach demonstrate our commitment to safeguarding these
natural assets for future generations.
This proactive approach not only preserves the natural
beauty of our coastline but also plays a crucial role in
defending our community against the impacts of coastal
erosion.
I want to sincerely thank Congressman Rouzer and
Senators Tillis and Budd for their support in securing
federal funds for these vital efforts.
It's just one example of our dedication to environmental
resilience and sustainability.
2024 State of the County
I also must note that our dedication to service and
governance has been nationally recognized.
This year, New Hanover County received 11
Achievement Awards from the National Association of
Counties, highlighting our commitment to building a
vibrant and safe community.
These awards, spanning across nine different departments,
are a testament to the hard work and innovative spirit of
our county staff.
I've shared a glimpse of our county's progress and our
vision for the future. Now, let's take a closer look at how
these plans are coming to life, bringing the story of New
Hanover County into focus.
2024 State of the County
Chair Rivenbark Remarks:
In closing, let me state unequivocally: the state of our
county has never been stronger.
Our achievements are the result of the collective effort of
dedicated individuals coming together to work towards a
shared vision.
I thank each of you for your role in our j ourney.
Your engagement, commitment, and belief in the
potential of New Hanover County are what fuels our
continued success.
Together, we will ensure that New Hanover County
remains a beacon of growth, innovation, and community
spirit.
Thank you.
God bless you,
2024 State of the County
and God bless New Hanover County.
Exhibft
Qook Page •
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING THE EFFORTS OF
THE GREATER WILMINGTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE EDUCATION FOUNDATION THROUGH
THE LEADERSHIP WILMINGTON PROGRAM
WHEREAS, the objective of Leadership Wilmington is to educate, challenge and motivate citizens
and to develop future leaders to work for the betterment of our community; and
WHEREAS, the program consists of ten sessions to promote leadership skills, community issues
and challenges, regional social and economic change, diversity, equity, and inclusion; and
WHEREAS, the Leadership Wilmington members work together and individually to plan and
execute a day of service for schools and nonprofits, known as Work on Wilmington; and
WHEREAS, Leadership Wilmington is committed to providing a continuous, diverse supply of
creative leaders to the community by developing their knowledge of the region and providing
them the opportunity for meaningful action.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the New Hanover County Board of Commissioners
recognizes the Leadership Wilmington Class of 2024 and the Greater Wilmington Chamber of
Commerce Education Foundation for their commitment and dedication for contributing to the
quality of life in New Hanover County and surrounding areas.
ADOPTED this the 11t day of April, 2024.
imply
NEW HANOVER COUNTY
illiam E. Rivenbark, Chair
Ir
• Clerk to the Board—
New Hanover County MontMy Collection Report for February 2024
Exhibit
Book �XL_v Page 3L.?—A
Cu.irrent Year 2023-2024
Real Estate
Personal Property
Motor Vehicles
Combined
Scroll/Billed
$
188,296,360,77
1.4,956,600,40
$
9,067,462.83
$
212,320,424,00
Abatements
$
(165,358A3)
$
(225,115.78)
$
$
(390,47191)
Adjustments
$
58,732.83
$
30,439.69
$
89,17252
Total'Taxes Charged
$
188,189,735.47
14,761,924,31
$
9,067,462,83
$
212,019,122.61
Collections to Date
$
186,570,97935
$
14,342,880,39
$
9,067,462,83
$
209,981,322,97
*Refunds
$
867,267,10
$
67,794.93
$
$
935,06103
Write-off
$
2197
1,388.90
$
1,41.2.87
Tu7tsta.ding Balance
$
2,485,098.85
$
485,449.95
$
2,971,448.80
Collection Percentage
98.68
9631
100.00
98.60
YTD Interest Collected
$
1.63,457.80
$
13,710.71
78,309.10
$
255,477,61
$ 209,301,738.5
Prior Years 2013-2022
Real Estate
Personal Property
Motor Vehicles
Combined
$
1,518,383,70
$
4,309,089.93
116,471.59
$ 5,943,945.22
Scroll
Abatements
$
(18,019,44)
$
(346,875.93)
$ (364,89537)
Adjustments
$
38,832.48
$
-
$
$ 38,832AS
Total ILevy
$
1,539,196.74
$
3,962,214.00
$
116,471_59
$ 5,617,88233
Collections to Date
$
481,479.04
$
90,683,57
$
196.62
$ 572,359,23
"Refunds
$
95,077.64
$
287,188.83
$
96.28
$ 382,36175
Write-off
$
25,072,81
$
405,147.03
$
111,435.44
541,655,28
Outstanding Balance
$
1,127,722.53
$
3,753,572,23
$
4,935.81
$ 5,969,541.13
71) interest Collected
$
73,334.07
$
31,738.77
$
157,97
$ 115,230.82
Total Prior Year Collections YTID
brand Total All Collections YTD $ �,606,9�6585
*Detailed information for Re can be found in the Tax Office
NEW HANOVER COUNTY
/r
Chair
Clerk he Hoard
_t4h
Date I
'46,�7744% Irr
� �'ABLISIW�
Current Year 2023-2f
Scroll/Billed
$
10,609,55339
$
852,58187
12,031,24537
Abatements
$
(9,3159(0
$
(12,6849
$
(22,00084)�
Adjustments
$
3,30&90
$
1,714,86
$
5,02176
Total Taxes Charged
$
10,603,546,39
$
841,613.79
$
569,
$
12,014,26819
�Collections to Date
$
10,462,88734
$
812,813.65
$
569,108.1
$
11,844,809.10
*Refunds
$
39559
$
19920
594.79
Write-off
12,39
9290
105,29
,Outstanding Ba ance
Zo I Wie J I o _n
Percer Zge
100.00
ENAMOR
it ............
Prior Years 2013-2022
Scroll
Real Estate
Personal Property
Motor Vehicles
Combined
$ 143,03918
$ 351,588,21
$
$
494, 2739
Abatements
$
(1,326.87)
$
(44,518.51)
$
(45,84538)
Adjustments
$
4,031.69
$
-
$
4,03.1_69
Total Levy
$
145,744.00
$
307,069.70
$
$
452,81170
Collections to Date
$
42,584.56
$
(192.59)
$
$
42,39137
*Refunds
$
4,430.85
$
29,325A7
$
$
33,756.02
Write-off
$
2.60
$
10.91
$
$
1151
Outstanding Balance
$
107,587.69
$
336,576.55
$
$
444,191,26
YTD Interest Collected
$
7,790,61
$
2,999,06
$
7
10,789,67
Total Prior Year Collections YTD
Grand Total All Collections YTD $ 11,879,84&29
*Detailed information for Refunds can be found in the Tax Office
ChairO
`O,TA 6 L IS I
Date
Exhibit
Book Page
New Hanover County Fire District Monthly Collection Report for February 2024
Current —Year2023-2024 I
Real Estate
Personal Property
Motor Vehicles
Combined
Scroll/Billed
12,024,500.73
$
1,096,371.72
$
744,244.69
13,865,117.14
Abatements
$
(3,867.15)
$
(15,677.57)
$
(19,544.72)
Adjustments
$
1,001.09
$
1,658.72
$
2,659.81
Total Taxes Charged
$
12,021,634.67
$
1,082,352.87
$
744,244.69
$
13,848,232.23
Collections to Date
$
11,854,481.13
$
1,049,754.65
$
744,244.69
$
13,648,480.47
*Refunds
$
66.22
$
221.09
$
287.31
Write-off
$
24.28
$
170.95
$
195.23
Outstanding Balance
$
167,195.48
$
32,648.36
$
-
$
199,843.84
Collection Percentage
98.61
96.98
_10_000
98.56
YTD Interest Collected
$
10,693.70
$
983.14
$
6,135.81
$
17,812.65
Prior Years 2013-2022
Real Estate
Personal Property
Motor Vehicles
Combined
Scroll
$
120,022.91
231,475.46
$
7,288.27
$
358,786.64
Abatements
$
(100.73)
$
(50,824.34)
$
-
$
(50,925.07)
Adjustments
$
723.12
$
-
$
723.12
Total Levy
$
120,645.30
$
180,651.12
$
7,288.27
$
308,584.69
Collections to Date
$
38,868.83
$
(926.27)
$
0.67
$
37,943.23
*Refunds
$
529.61
$
41,378.21
$
-
$
41,907.82
Write-off
$
1,492.50
22,607.60
$
6,970.86
$
31,070.96
Outstanding Balance
$
80,813.58
$
200,348.00
$
316:5-4
$
343,620.24
YTD Interest Collected
$
6,326.62
$
1,933.82
$
0.12
$
8,260.56
Total Prior Year Collections YTD
46,203.79
Grand Tota$ 13,712,20
*Detailed information for Refunds can be found in the Tax Office
NEW HANOVER COUNTY
Chair
Clerk 4the Board L)
_!
L+7
Date
I
WKWU
. �a,rAfiusl�,
Exhibit
V o o a g e
10 1 :PJA 2 T-,l 0 190:41U40:11101 b 'd TiT=RZ41jr+1i1II I, k CAL4101 LVA I kri 11491 rol 0 14
f1.1 **0114 ire] Z
AWARD OF CONTRACT TO AUDIT COUNTY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
WHEREAS, staff solicited proposals from qualified certified public accountants to audit the
County's financial statements for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024, with the option of auditing
for each of the four subsequent fiscal years based on satisfactory performance each year; and
WHEREAS, proposals were received from the following four (4) firms; and
• Cherry Bekaert, LLP
• FORVIS
• Mauldin & Jenkins
• Thompson, Price, Scott, Adams & Co.
WHEREAS, after evaluating all proposals using a two-step process recommended by the Local
Government Commission (LGC), staff recommends the firm of Cherry Bekaert, LLP, for award of
contract.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Commissioners of New Hanover County that
the contract to audit the financial statements for the County for Fiscal Year 2023-2024 is awarded
to Cherry Bekaert, LLP with the option to renew the contract for each of the following four (4)
fiscal years based upon satisfactory performance each year.
ADOPTED this 1st day of April 2024.
I
miffim
NEW HANOVER COUq.TY
William E Rivenbark, Chairman
berle o ell, Clerk to the Board
Exhibi
Book �W_ Page-U—.5
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
PUBLIC HEALTH WEEK PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, the week of April 1-7, 2024 is recognized as National Public Health Week, and
embraces the theme of "Protecting, Connecting and Thriving: We Are All Public Health"; and
WHEREAS, this year emphasizes the crucial role of community engagement in enhancing public
health outcomes, underscoring the collective effort required to fortify public health
infrastructure and community resilience; and
WHEREAS, public health is essential in securing clean air and water, safe and nutritious foods,
and equitable access to health services, thereby fostering community well-being; and
WHEREAS, initiatives in public health that address infectious diseases, promote environmental
cleanliness and advocate for healthy living significantly improve the health of the County; and
WHEREAS, ensuring health equity is at the forefront of the County's public health strategy,
acknowledging that all community members deserve equal access to the conditions and
resources necessary for optimal health, irrespective of their background or circumstances; and
WHEREAS, the New Hanover County Board of Commissioners renews its commitment to
prioritizing public health, with a special focus on bridging health disparities and fostering an
inclusive environment where every resident can thrive.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED by the New Hanover County Board of
Commissioners that April 1-7, 2024 will be recognized as "Public Health Week" in New Hanover
County.
ADOPTED this the 11t day of April, 2024.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY
William E. Rivenbark, Chair
ATTEST:
*�,� sl�,,Z';
NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Exhibit
BLACK MATERNAL HEALTH PROCLAMATION Book �—L---'~~ �xO8
—L--��'
WHEREAS, the mission of New Hanover County isto provide equitable opportunities and exceptional public
services through good governance toensure asafe, healthy, secure, and thriving community for all, and the mission
of New Hanover County Health and Human Services is to provide services and support that promote self-reliance,
prevent adverse experiences, and protect the community; and
WHEREAS, in accordance with these missions, it is critical to highlight the significance of Health Equity throughout
the entire community, with a particular focus on Black Maternal Health Week from April 11 to 17. This week should
emphasize the importance of ensuring Black women have access to high -quality healthcare catering to their
individual needs; and
WHEREAS, maternal health is akey component ofsocietal, communal, and familial vveU-bengCand
WHEREAS, Black women continue toface significant disparities and grievances in maternal health outcomes,
including elevated rates of maternal mortality, severe maternal morbidity, and adverse birth outcomes, in
comparison to women of other racial backgrounds. This is evident not only in New Hanover County, North Carolina,
but also on a national scale, as reported by the National Institutes of Health and North Carolina Health News; and
WHEREAS, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Center for
Health Statistics, in Southeastern North Carolina, the mortality rate for Black infants before their first birthday is
twice ashigh asthat oftheir counterparts; and
WHEREAS, to achieve health equity in maternal health outcomes, the underlying factors leading to these
disparities, such as social determinants ofhealth, cultural and other biases, and additional challenges, must be
addressed; and
WHEREAS, providing Black women with comprehensive support services, culturally competent healthcare
personnel, and high -quality prenatal care is critical for supporting healthy pregnancies and birthing experiences;
and
WHEREAS, Black Maternal Health Week honors the lives of Black women and their families, promotes policies,
procedures, programs, and services that ensure equitable maternal health outcomes, acknowledges, and amplifies
their experiences and perspectives, and brings attention to the critical need to address maternal health disparities
within our Black community.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED that the New Hanover County Board of Commissioners designates the week
of April 11-17, 2024, as "Black Maternal Health Week."
ADOPTED this Vday inApril, 2O24.
NrWCOUNTY
C5
VViUiann E. RivenbaM, [hair
g��Po.
Kym erleigh G. Crowell, Clerk to the Board