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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-12-16 Regular Meeting NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 36 DECEMBER 16, 2024 REGULAR MEETING PAGE 380 ASSEMBLY The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners met December 16, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. in Regular Session in the Assembly Room of the New Hanover County Courthouse, 24 North Third Street, Wilmington, North Carolina. Members present: Chair Bill Rivenbark; Vice-Chair LeAnn Pierce; Commissioner Dane Scalise; Commissioner Stephanie A.C. Walker; and Commissioner Rob Zapple. Staff present: County Manager Chris Coudriet; Clerk to the Board Kymberleigh G. Crowell; and County Attorney K. Jordan Smith. INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Pastor D. Evan Grizzle, Apostolic Tabernacle of Wilmington, provided the invocation and Commissioner Scalise led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. ANNOUNCEMENT OF LANGUAGE ACCESS SERVICE AVAILABILITY Chief Diversity and Equity Officer Linda Thompson announced the launch of a new language access tool funded by a $25,000 language access grant. The tool, provided by Wordly, offers real-time translation, transcription, and captioning in over 60 languages. Board meeting attendees can access the service by scanning a QR code to use with their personal devices or borrowing tablets from the sign-in desk. The initiative aims to enhance language accessibility, particularly for the deaf and hard of hearing community and those with limited English proficiency. Vice-Chair Pierce commented on her personal experience with hearing-impairments since early childhood, noting the benefits of using assistive technology that displays text in large print. She further stated that hearing impairments affect people of all ages and demographics, not just the elderly. She encouraged anyone needing such technology to seek assistance and provided assurance that there is no shame in using the service. She thanked Ms. Thompson and staff for providing this resource. Ms. Thompson responded to Commissioner Zapple’s inquiries confirming the service will be available at the Board’s regular meetings and attendees can submit the request to use a tablet ahead of a meeting. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA Chair Rivenbark requested a motion to approve the Consent Agenda as presented. Motion: Commissioner Scalise MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Zapple to approve the Consent Agenda items as presented. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. CONSENT AGENDA Approval of Minutes – Governing Body The Board approved the minutes of the December 2, 2024 Regular Meeting. Adoption of Budget Amendments – Budget The Board adopted the following budget amendments amending the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025: 25-024 - 911 Communications 25-027, 028, 029, and 030 - Sheriff's Office 25-025 - Strategy 25-031 - Library 25-026 - Parks and Gardens Copies of the budget amendments are hereby incorporated as part of the minutes and contained in Exhibit Book XLV, Page 22.1. Reappointment of the New Hanover County Financing Corporation Board of Directors – County Attorney The Board reappointed Chris Coudriet and Eric Credle as directors of the New Hanover County Financing Corporation for three-year terms. Approval of Appointments of Commissioners to Various Boards and Committees for 2025 – Governing Body The Board approved the finalized list of New Hanover County Commissioner appointments to various Boards and Committees for 2025. A copy of the appointment list for 2025 is hereby incorporated as part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit XLV, Page 22.2. REGULAR ITEMS OF BUSINESS PRESENTATION OF SERVICE AWARDS AND INTRODUCTION OF NEW EMPLOYEES County Manager Coudriet recognized the following employee receiving a retirement award: Greg Johnson, Sheriff’s Office, retiring with 28 years of service. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 36 DECEMBER 16, 2024 REGULAR MEETING PAGE 381 Chair Rivenbark presented the retirement award to Colonel Johnson and the Commissioners expressed appreciation and thanked him for his years of dedicated service. County Manager Coudriet requested the following employees to step forward to receive service awards: Five Years: Theodora Angelis, Facilities Management Brandon Evans, Recycling and Solid Waste Ten Years: Commissioner Rob Zapple, Governing Body Fifteen Years: Christopher Dwy, Health and Human Services (HHS) – Social Services Twenty Years: Edna Johnson, Sheriff’s Office Chair Rivenbark presented each person with a service award, and the Commissioners expressed appreciation and thanked each one for their years of dedicated service. County Manager Coudriet then requested the following new employees to stand and be introduced: Ryan Beil, Planning and Land Use Kindra Jones, HHS – Social Services Thomas Booth, HHS – Social Services Wanda Shepard, HHS – Social Services Kathryn Cerrone, Senior Resource Center McCabe Watson, Planning and Land Use Bryan Hall, Engineering Anthony Williams, Communications Cookie Hazen, Tax The Board welcomed the employees to County Government and wished them success in their new positions. RECOGNITION OF GOVERNMENT FINANCE OFFICERS ASSOCIATION AWARD – ANNUAL BUDGET Chief Financial Officer Eric Credle and Budget Officer Amanda Kostusiak reported on the receipt of the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA). This award is the highest form of recognition in governmental budgeting and was presented for the County’s annual budget document for the period beginning July 2024. The recognition reflects a significant accomplishment for the County, highlighting the dedication of both the governing body and staff to uphold the highest principles of governmental budgeting. To receive the award, the County adhered to nationally recognized guidelines for effective budget presentation. Additionally, the GFOA highlighted that the County’s budget received special recognition for its strategic goals, and strategies and its budget process. This distinction signifies that all three GFOA reviewers awarded the highest possible scores in these categories. The Board congratulated Mr. Credle and Ms. Kostusiak along with their team. PRESENTATION OF CAPE FEAR PUBLIC UTILITY AUTHORITY (CFPUA) ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2024 CFPUA Executive Director Ken Waldroup presented the CFPUA 2024 annual report as follows:  Year in review:  February: The Board received the report, “Economic Impacts of Cape Fear Public Utility Authority’s Water and Wastewater Services and Infrastructure Investments”  May: CFPUA hosted a service line replacement demonstration for state and federal regulatory partners as part of a visit by President Joe Biden to highlight funding in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law  May: The CFPUA Board approved a $120 million FY25 operating budget, a 6.3% increase over FY24  June: CFPUA was named a “Utility of the Future Today” by the Water Environment Federation and received the Water Research Foundation’s 2024 Subscriber Impact Award  Summer: CFPUA, partner municipalities, and the Local Government Commission approve a consolidation of Wrightsville Beach’s water and sewer systems into CFPUA’s  October: CFPUA published its Water Service Line Materials Inventory of the more than 75,000 service lines across the drinking water system  Serving CFPUA customers:  In 2024, we reorganized CFPUA’s Customer Service Department into our Finance Department for greater organizational efficiency, while providing the same level of quality service to customers  Our lobby at 235 Government Center Drive was renovated and reopened following extensive damage caused by a failed water heater in 2023  We adjusted our lobby hours to better complete transactions, provide training time for staff, and improve safety  CFPUA’s economic impact: NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 36 DECEMBER 16, 2024 REGULAR MEETING PAGE 382  “Economic Impacts of CFPUA’s Water and Wastewater Services and Infrastructure Investments”  Key findings:  Every $1 million spent by CFPUA from 2013-2022 created 10.7 jobs/year in NHC  Average jobs supported annually by CFPUA spending (direct, indirect, and induced): 1,023  From 2013-2022, each $1 spent generated $1.66 in economic output in the local economy  Extended water outage could result in a loss of $70.4 million to $93.2 million per day in economic output countywide  Southside plant replacement:  Replacement, upgrade, and expansion of the Southside Wastewater Treatment Plant on River Road  Capacity will be expanded from 12 million gallons per day (MGD) to 16-20 MGD  Contract for Phase 1 construction services awarded September 2023 to Crowder Construction Co. ($13.1 million):  In October, Crowder completed the project’s 30% design package with cost ranges  CFPUA staff are evaluating unexpected cost increases through a validation and value engineering process  Site work expected to begin in 2025  Town of Wrightsville Beach (TOWB) consolidation:  Consolidation of TOWB water and sewer systems into CFPUA’s scheduled to be in effect in September 2025  Background:  State’s 2023 Appropriations Act: $17 million to CFPUA for regional consolidation; $8 million to TOWB for consolidation  Summer 2024: Approvals by CFPUA, Town of Wrightsville Beach, City of Wilmington, New Hanover County, and Local Government Commission  Significant improvements to aging infrastructure in the Town, with over $23.5 million in planned investments  Consolidation designed to pay for itself, with no expected rate impacts to CFPUA customers. Wrightsville Beach customers to pay same rates as CFPUA customers  Service line replacements:  October 2024: regulatory deadline for compliance with some parts of the U.S. EPA’s Revised and Improved Lead and Copper Rule (LCR)  CFPUA proactively began inventory in 2020  75,000 water service lines inventoried  Zero lead service lines in CFPUA’s system, 592 galvanized lines located  CFPUA has begun contacting customers to complete replacements of all galvanized lines  $9.16 million in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) funding, of which $8.4 million is principal forgiveness, has been secured for replacements  Service line inventory published at CFPUA.org/FindMyLine  Other major projects:  River Road booster pump station:  What: New booster pump station to feed drinking water from the Sweeney Water Treatment Plant to the Monterey Heights Water System  Project Timeline: March 2025 – March 2027  Cost: $14 million  “Last Frontier” projects:  What: A series of projects in partnership with New Hanover County to expand water and sewer infrastructure in the northern portion of the County  Project Timeline: Ongoing through April 2026  Cost: CFPUA-Funded: $38,221,360; New Hanover County-Funded: $38,867,316; American Rescue Plan Act Grant-Funded (CFPUA): $30,385,000  CFPUA and New Hanover County partnership:  New Hanover County and CFPUA partnering to expand water and sewer access:  Rockhill Road Water Connections Pilot Program: $500,000 in funding provided by NHC to connect 23 homes adjacent to existing CFPUA mains to water  Community Water Stations: $40,000 in funding provided by NHC; to date, three stations opened: St. James AME Church, Scotts Hill Community Center, and Shoulders Branch Church  Water Mains to Private Wells: Prioritizing areas with high PFAS contamination in groundwater:  Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Grants (approx. $4 million)  NC Reserve funding ($18 million)  Sewer Prioritization Study underway:  Initial data analysis from consultant under review by CFPUA and NHC staff  Finances: NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 36 DECEMBER 16, 2024 REGULAR MEETING PAGE 383 Discussion ensued about various projects and water and sewer service expansion. Mr. Waldroup explained that there is a state requirement to increase capacity in the southside wastewater treatment plant by 2030. The two primary drivers for replacing the plant are (1) accommodating planned growth and (2) addressing the facility's aging infrastructure (50+ years old). He explained the plan to build a new plant for long-term use while assessing the old plant for potential future service. As to the status of identifying contaminated wells, testing procedures, and how residents can have their wells tested, he explained the details of the testing process managed by Chemours under the consent order, noting that about 20% of tested wells show contamination. He also provided an overview of resources for private testing options and collaboration with environmental services staff to educate the public. As to the project(s) along U.S. Highway 421 and the status of septic systems, Mr. Waldroup committed to researching the project's details and including them in the forthcoming weekly update. He also expressed appreciation for the County's study on septic systems in at-risk communities. Hearing no further discussion, Chair Rivenbark thanked Mr. Waldroup for the presentation. PRESENTATION OF NEW HANOVER COUNTY WATER QUALITY MONITORING PROGRAM, 2023 - 2024 FINAL REPORT Brad Rosov, M.Sc. Senior Marine Biologist/Project Manager with Coastal Protection Engineering of North Carolina, stated that the monthly monitoring of seven tidal creeks within the County has been done since November 2007. The creeks included in this study are Pages, Futch, Lords, Mott, Barnards, Smith, and Prince George. Beginning last program year, the mainly undeveloped watershed of Island Creek in northern New Hanover County was added to gain a baseline assessment of the watershed prior to future development. Also, three sampling sites are monitored from within the freshwater pond at Airlie Gardens. He then presented the 2023-2024 Water Quality Monitoring Program Final Report highlighting the results of the water quality samples collected and analyzed for biological, chemical, and physical parameters from the following monitoring stations:  New Hanover County Water Quality Monitoring Program:  Methods: monthly sampling from July 2023 – June 2024  Physical, biological, and chemical (Airlie Gardens only) parameters are utilized  Results:  2023-2024 summary results:  Long-Term Enterococci 2008-2024 results:  Airlie Gardens Lake monthly monitoring:  AG-IN (northern part of the lake), AG-Floating Dock (FD), AG-Outfall (OUT)  Physical parameters, Chlorophyll-a, Orthophosphate, Nitrate/Nitrite  Airlie Gardens Lake water quality results: NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 36 DECEMBER 16, 2024 REGULAR MEETING PAGE 384  There has been a trend of increasing levels of both nutrients within the lake over time  Chlorophyll-a levels at AG-FD and AG-OUT have been considerably higher than the levels observed at AG-IN  Constructed wetlands and dredging events designed to improve water quality have yet to demonstrate success  Overall conclusions:  Turbidity and Chlorophyll-a levels continue to be deemed to be “good” in all creeks  Dissolved Oxygen levels fluctuate with water temperature  Overall, Enterococci bacteria have improved over the long-term study period  Enterococci bacteria remain elevated at Pages Creek, particularly within the Bayshore community  Water quality within Airlie Gardens appears to be partly driven by nutrient-laden stormwater runoff which may spur algal blooms and reduced dissolved oxygen Discussion ensued about ongoing water quality monitoring and restoration efforts, focusing particularly on the chronic issues in Pages Creek and the broader watershed. In response to questions, Mr. Rosov explained that the program operates primarily as a monitoring initiative, making it difficult to directly correlate actions with outcomes. However, improvements have likely resulted from a combination of management strategies, including ordinances, regulations, stormwater controls, and watershed restoration plans. Incremental actions, such as installing rain gardens and reducing sedimentation, collectively contribute to the slow but steady improvements. As to Pages Creek, he noted that it has a persistent challenge due to consistently high bacteria levels, primarily from human contamination. The exact origin remains unclear despite extensive studies using aerial imaging and testing to trace the source. Planned upgrades to nearby lift stations may address some issues, though further monitoring and possibly additional studies will likely be required. He reassured the Board that past investigations ruled out illicit discharges from septic systems, as centralized sewer systems have served the area for over 20 years. In the broader scope of water quality measures, Mr. Rosov emphasized that community-wide engagement is essential and referenced the Pages Creek restoration plan, which outlines actionable measures for residents. Regarding Airlie Gardens, he explained how the wetlands filter runoff and reduce algal blooms, though challenges remain during warmer months when dissolved oxygen levels decrease due to higher water temperatures and nutrient runoff. Discussion ensued about steps citizens can take to help reduce runoff into the creeks. Planning and Land Use Director Rebekah Roth provided an update on efforts led by the Soil and Water Conservation District, which include offering funding assistance to residents for installing rain gardens and rain barrels, partnering with organizations to improve stormwater management, and studying headwater restoration projects. Commissioner Walker added that the residents have access to the NC State Cooperative Extension/Arboretum rain garden program and other programs that provide additional tools to help capture and filter runoff. Discussion then focused on the importance of sustained efforts by the community, local government, and conservation groups to tackle water quality challenges. It was noted that while progress is being made, continued investment in infrastructure, education, and individual actions will be essential to achieving long-term improvements in water quality across all local waterways. Hearing no further discussion, Chair Rivenbark thanked Mr. Rosov for the presentation. CONSIDERATION AND APPROVAL OF LOCAL TRANSITION RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE COMMUNITY CHILD PROTECTION TEAM AND CHILD FATALITY PREVENTION TEAM Public Health Director Jon Campbell stated with the North Carolina General Assembly veto override vote of Governor Cooper’s veto of Senate Bill 382, the action altered the timeline to combine local child fatality systems. He further stated that due to the action, the ask of the Board is to continue the matter to the June 16, 2025 meeting. Hearing no further discussion, Chair Rivenbark asked for Board direction. MOTION: Commissioner Scalise MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Zapple to continue this matter to the June 16, 2025 meeting. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 36 DECEMBER 16, 2024 REGULAR MEETING PAGE 385 FINANCIAL UPDATE OF UNAUDITED FINANCIAL RESULTS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2024, AND FOR THE FIRST QUARTER OF FISCAL YEAR 2025 Eric Credle, Chief Financial Officer, presented the following information on the unaudited general fund financial results for June 30, 2024, and Fiscal Year (FY) 2024-2025 first quarter financial results as follows:  Finance Report for June 30, 2024 and September 30, 2024:  Review of financial results for FY End June 30, 2024:  Review of results  Investment portfolio  Debt outstanding  First Quarter of Fiscal Year 2024 – September 30, 2024  Overview of 2024 Fiscal Year:  Overall, the County’s financial position is sound:  General Fund unassigned balance is within the targeted range  Results of all other funds are in line with expectations  AAA Bond Rating from Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s (affirmed in August 2024)  Total General Fund revenue in line with expectations  General Fund expenditures were less than budgeted amounts but exceeded recurring revenue  General Fund – Revenue (excluding unrealized investment losses) vs. Expenditures/Net Transfers Out  FY24 Revenue variances – Actual vs. Budget:  Property taxes: +$0.5 million  Sales taxes: -$2.7 million  Investment earnings: +$2.6 million  Intergovernmental: -$5 million  General Fund balance sheet as of June 30, 2024:  Assets totaled $502.6 million - 90% liquid assets (down 0.7%)  Liabilities of $24.3 million (down 6.3%)  Total Fund Balance = $478.3 million (down 0.35%)  Unassigned Fund Balance:  Unassigned Fund Balance $73.6 million (18.2% of Expenditures) vs. $79.6 million prior year (21.0%)  >21% Capital Improvement Plan = $13.4 million vs. $22.1 million  Investments:  County has $412 million invested in government securities:  Concentrated in the two hospital sale escrow funds:  $257 million Revenue Stabilization ($297 million in total assets on 6/30/24)  $42 million in Mental and Behavioral Health ($51 million in total assets)  $113 million in General Fund - Operating  Escrow Funds invested during 2021 in 10 year laddering maturity strategy  Rising interest rates = unrealized losses:  $27.9 million in unrealized losses at 6/30/24  $7.4 million improvement from prior year end:  Credit risk remains sound – entirely government securities with no permanent losses expected and full par value realized at maturity  General Fund operating unrealized losses = $0.7 million: only impact on Unrestricted General Fund balance  Investment income budget for FY 2024 = $14.5 million:  Increase of $2+ million from FY 2024 and $4+ million from FY 2023  Investment Income in FY 2022 = $3.0 million  Debt overview:  Debt outstanding at 6/30/24 = $432 million: NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 36 DECEMBER 16, 2024 REGULAR MEETING PAGE 386  $46 million in principal repayments  Two issuances during FY 2024 for $63 million  Net increase of $17 million  Debt capacity:  Three policy maximums:  Lowest current policy maximum is $2,200 per citizen = approximately $534 million  Available debt capacity pro forma = $102 million  FY 2025:  $37 million issuance in September 2024  $48 million in repayments  Late FY25 Issuance of approximately $15 - $20 million  First Quarter financial summary – FY 2025:  2025 Budgeted Revenue sources – General Fund:  First Quarter of FY 2025:  Overview:  Property tax rate per $100 of assessed value:  FY 2022 = 47.5 cents  FY 2023 = 45.5 cents  FY 2024 = 45.0 cents  FY 2025 = 45.0 cents  Property tax bills mailed in late July:  Payable by citizens without interest until January 5, 2025  Tax receipt peak period is December - January  Sales taxes:  Received in the third month following the sale:  July-September 2024 sales tax receipts were received in October-December (only reflected in the immediately following slide):  Sales Taxes – Total for July through September 2024:  General Fund revenues and expenditures:  General Fund revenues: NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 36 DECEMBER 16, 2024 REGULAR MEETING PAGE 387  General Fund expenditures:  Debt Service Fund revenues and expenditures:  Environmental Management:  Fire Services:  Stormwater Services: In response to questions, Mr. Credle confirmed that the two new fire stations in Castle Hayne and on Gordon Road are fully budgeted, and the funding has already been borrowed. As to the Recycling and Solid Waste $52 fee structure, he explained that the variance is due to increased construction debris, which incurs higher fees compared to recyclables. As to the insurance expenses, Mr. Credle clarified those recent variances stem from an accounting change consolidating insurance cost rather than reflecting actual increases. He also confirmed that the property tax collection rate is 99.6%. Hearing no further discussion, Chair Rivenbark thanked Mr. Credle for the presentation. COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS Appointment to the New Hanover County/City of Wilmington Community Relations Advisory Committee Chair Rivenbark reported that a vacancy exists on the New Hanover County/City of Wilmington Community Relations Advisory Committee in the Faith Community category, and one application is available for consideration. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 36 DECEMBER 16, 2024 REGULAR MEETING PAGE 388 Commissioner Zapple nominated Sharon Murphy for appointment in the Faith Community category. Vice- Chair Pierce seconded the nomination. Hearing no further nominations, Chair Rivenbark asked for a vote on the nomination on the floor. Vote Results: The Board voted UNANIMOUSLY to appoint Sharon Murphy to the New Hanover County/City of Wilmington Community Relations Advisory Committee in the Faith Community category to fill an unexpired term with the term to expire September 30, 2026. Appointment to the New Hanover County Commission on African American History, Heritage, and Culture Chair Rivenbark reported that a vacancy exists on the New Hanover County Commission on African American History, Heritage, and Culture in the Business Community category, with one application available for consideration. Commissioner Scalise nominated Terrilyn Phillips for appointment in the Business Community category. Commissioner Zapple seconded the nomination. Hearing no further nominations, Chair Rivenbark asked for a vote on the nomination on the floor. Vote Results: The Board voted UNANIMOUSLY to appoint Terrilyn Phillips in the Business Community category to the New Hanover County Commission on African American History, Heritage, and Culture to fill an unexpired term with the term to expire August 31, 2027. Appointment to the New Hanover County Cooperative Extension Advisory Council Chair Rivenbark reported that a vacancy exists on the New Hanover County Cooperative Extension Advisory Council with one application available for consideration. Commissioner Walker nominated Jeannie (Eugenia) Lennon for appointment. Vice-Chair Pierce seconded the nominations. Hearing no further nominations, Chair Rivenbark asked for a vote on the nominations on the floor. Vote Results: The Board voted UNANIMOUSLY to appoint Jeannie (Eugenia) Lennon to the New Hanover County Cooperative Extension Advisory Council to serve a three-year term, with the term to expire December 1, 2027. Appointments to the New Hanover County Juvenile Crime Prevention Council Chair Rivenbark reported that two vacancies exist on the New Hanover County Juvenile Crime Prevention Council, one in the At-Large category and one in the Under Age 21 category, with three applications available for consideration. Commissioner Scalise nominated Nikki Bascome for appointment in the At-Large category. Vice-Chair Pierce seconded the nomination. Commissioner Zapple nominated Reagan Faulkner for appointment in the Under Age 21 category. Commissioner Walker seconded the nomination. Hearing no further nominations, Chair Rivenbark asked for a vote on the nominations on the floor. Vote Results: The Board voted UNANIMOUSLY to appoint Nikki Bascome in the At-Large category and Reagan Faulkner in the Under Age 21 category to the New Hanover County Juvenile Crime Prevention Council for two-year terms that expire September 30, 2026. Appointment to the New Hanover County Library Advisory Board Chair Rivenbark reported that one vacancy exists on the New Hanover County Library Advisory Board, with seven applications available for consideration. Commissioner Zapple nominated Paul Niggl for appointment. Vice-Chair Pierce seconded the nominations. Hearing no further nominations, Chair Rivenbark asked for a vote on the nominations on the floor. Vote Results: Upon vote, the Board voted UNANIMOUSLY to appoint Paul Niggl to the New Hanover County Library Advisory Board to fill an unexpired term with the term to expire August 31, 2025. Appointments to the New Hanover County Tourism Development Authority Chair Rivenbark reported that two vacancies exist on the New Hanover County Tourism Development Authority in the Bed and Breakfast Owner/Manager category and the Restaurant Owner/Manager category, with one applicant eligible for reappointment and one application available for consideration. Vice-Chair Pierce nominated Ross Pitman for reappointment in the Bed and Breakfast Owner/Manager category and Angela Rhodes for reappointment in the Restaurant Owner/Manager category. Commissioner Scalise seconded the nominations. Hearing no further nominations, Chair Rivenbark called for a vote for the nominations on the floor. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 36 DECEMBER 16, 2024 REGULAR MEETING PAGE 389 Vote Results: The Board voted UNANIMOUSLY to reappoint Ross Pitman in the Bed and Breakfast Owner/Manager category and Angela Rhodes in the Restaurant Owner/Manager category to the New Hanover County Tourism Development Authority to serve three-year terms with the terms to expire December 31, 2027. ADDITIONAL AGENDA ITEMS OF BUSINESS Commissioner Zapple stated that in reference to the proposal for the Hilton Bluffs development on the Sledge Forest property off Castle Hayne Road, there has been considerable discussion within the County departments and in the community regarding this project. It is clear there are still many unknowns for the property, the impacts of development on the scale that is being proposed, on the existing communities in the area and on the infrastructure in the northern portion of the County. He asked that Ms. Roth have her department gather more information about the project and research the potential of a permit modification that would require the submittal of information by the applicant that addresses key areas of concern before moving forward with the approval process. Some of those areas should include verification of soil types and identification/certification of marshlands and wetlands; when appropriate, assurances that all Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) permitting is complete, or that there is a reasonable expectation by CAMA officials that permits will be issued; in areas that are located in, or adjacent to existing floodplains, that the most current National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) floodplain maps are being submitted; verification of transportation access to the proposed areas of development; and verification and description of the location and the extent of the biodiversity located on the proposed development site. Also, given the traffic concerns, he also asked that staff look at how the County’s standards can better consider the impacts of projects on existing roadways. Commissioner Zapple concluded that he would like for Ms. Roth to bring the information back to the Board at a future meeting. Commissioner Scalise commented on the Board receiving community feedback on the development and concerns about Sledge Forest. He emphasized that no decisions are predetermined and that there is no “rubber- stamp” process in the County. He feels the Board wants to communicate that and commit to thoroughly reviewing the development to ensure compliance with all rules, regulations, and formalities established by the County. He noted the intent to understand the broader implications of the project fully. He provided assurances that the community is being heard and all steps will be taken to ensure lawful and thoughtful decision-making. A brief discussion ensued about the project. In response to questions, Ms. Roth confirmed that no approvals have been made for the project. She emphasized the ongoing effort to gather the necessary information to ensure compliance with all regulations. She noted that questions have arisen about the approval process and the timing of required information. She expressed the willingness to review the processes further to address public concerns. Additionally, any potential policy changes identified through the review will be brought to the Board for consideration and appropriate action. Vice-Chair Pierce stated that the Board is not implying staff is not doing its job but wants to ensure the County and staff are going to the highest level of due diligence for the citizens. It is important for the citizens to know the process the developer must work through particularly when there is no requirement for Board approval. Ms. Roth confirmed she will report back to the Board with the requested information. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS Chair Rivenbark stated that the two people signed up to speak under public comment and asked that the speakers provide comments. Doug Neu, a resident of Jenoa Loop, Castle Hayne, NC, expressed opposition to the Sledge Forest and Hilton Bluffs development, citing concerns about traffic and environmental impact. He stated the need for the Board to consider the long-term impacts of the development on the community and the environment. Bill Jayne, a resident of Rosewood Landing Drive, Castle Hayne, NC, stated he is a long-time resident and advocate for natural and historic preservation. He urged the Board to save Sledge Forest, highlighting its significance as conservation land. He also commented on the need for consideration to be given to the long-term impacts of the development on the community and the environment. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, Chair Rivenbark adjourned the meeting at 10:53 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.