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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-06-16 Regular Meeting NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 36 JUNE 16, 2025 REGULAR MEETING PAGE 578 ASSEMBLY The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners met on June 16, 2025, 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: Vice-Chair LeAnn Pierce; Commissioner Dane Scalise; Commissioner Stephanie A.C. Walker; and Commissioner Rob Zapple. Members absent: Chair Bill Rivenbark. Staff present: County Manager Chris Coudriet; Clerk to the Board Kymberleigh G. Crowell; and County Attorney K. Jordan Smith. INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Retired Superior Court Judge Jay Hockenbury, Believers Destiny Church, provided the invocation, and Vice- Chair Pierce led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. Vice-Chair Pierce stated that Chair Rivenbark is unable to attend the meeting and therefore, the Board members present need to excuse him from the meeting. She asked for a motion and a second to excuse Chair Rivenbark from the June 16, 2025 meeting. Motion: Vice-Chair Pierce MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Scalise to excuse Chair Rivenbark from the June 16, 2025 meeting. Upon vote, the MOTION PASSED 4 TO 0. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA Vice-Chair Pierce requested a motion to approve the Consent Agenda as presented. Commissioner Zapple stated that before the Board votes to approve the Consent Agenda, he desired clarification on Consent Agenda Items #4: Adoption of Budget Amendments, #5: Approval to Purchase Property Located at 21 S 13th Street, Wilmington, NC 28401 and #6: Approval of the Interlocal Agreement Between Cape Fear Public Utility Authority and New Hanover County for Water Line Extension to Highway 421 North Fire Station. Upon completion of those discussions, Vice-Chair Pierce 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 PASSED 4 TO 0. CONSENT AGENDA Approval of Minutes – Governing Body The Board approved the minutes of the May 29, 2025 Agenda Review and the June 2, 2025 Regular Meeting. Adoption of Purple Heart Day Proclamation – Sheriff The Board adopted a proclamation declaring Thursday, August 7, 2025, as Purple Heart Day in New Hanover County. A copy of the proclamation is hereby incorporated as part of the minutes and contained in Exhibit Book XLVI, Page 13.1. Adoption of a Resolution Recognizing the 1775 District of Wilmington Resolves – Governing Body The Board adopted a resolution recognizing June 20, 2025, as the 250th anniversary of the District of Wilmington Resolves. A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as part of the minutes and contained in Exhibit Book XLVI, Page 13.2. Discussion and Adoption of Budget Amendments – Budget Chief Financial Officer Eric Credle responded to Commissioner Zapple’s inquiries about budget amendment 25-054, stating that it is an accounting requirement for leases in accordance with the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) 87 and is not a new cost. NOTE: The Board adopted the following budget amendments, amending the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year (FY) ending June 30, 2025: GASB 87: Leases 25-054 GASB 96: Software 25-055 Copies of the budget amendments are hereby incorporated as part of the minutes and contained in Exhibit Book XLVI, Page 13.3. Discussion and Approval to Purchase Property Located at 21 S 13th Street, Wilmington, NC 28401 – Finance Mr. Credle responded to Commissioner Zapple’s inquiries by confirming that the purchase amount would NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 36 JUNE 16, 2025 REGULAR MEETING PAGE 579 come from the County’s fund balance, noting it represents less than one-tenth of one percent. He acknowledged that the expenditure does create a fund balance reduction. County Manager Coudriet noted that the Board recently lowered the fund balance policy from 18% to a new benchmark of 16.7% with the adoption of the FY26 budget and asked Mr. Credle to provide context based on that change. Mr. Credle stated that the County expects to end the current fiscal year at 18.2% and projects a balance of around 19%, making the $275,000 impact minimal to overall fund balance health. A brief discussion ensued about the matter. Commissioner Zapple noted that while this type of expense might typically come from contingency funds, recent cuts in that area make such purchases more difficult. He supports the purchase as it completes the block near New Hanover High School. Vice Chair Pierce stated her support of the purchase, noting it is a rare opportunity to acquire land that directly benefits the school system and aligns with the school board’s identified needs. Commissioner Scalise stated support for the purchase and stressed the need for ongoing fiscal responsibility, encouraging the Board to consistently review all expenditures. NOTE: The Board approved County staff to enter into a contract to purchase 21 South 13th Street at the negotiated price of $275,000 and to deed the property to the New Hanover County Schools after the purchase. The Board also adopted budget amendment 25-057. A copy of the budget amendment is hereby incorporated as part of the minutes and contained in Exhibit Book XLVI, Page 13.4. Discussion and Approval of the Interlocal Agreement Between Cape Fear Public Utility Authority and New Hanover County for Water Line Extension to Highway 421 North Fire Station – Fire Rescue Fire Chief Donnie Hall and Chief Facilities Officer Sara Warmuth confirmed that design costs are estimated at $26,500, funded through the Fire District Fund in FY25. The FY26 budget request includes $85,000 from the Facilities Management General Operating Fund for construction costs. It is a priority project and will remain funded. The contract language referencing private connections is that the County will be responsible for the water line from the public termination point to the building, like a private homeowner’s responsibility beyond a meter. No other properties would be affected, as the land between the current water line and the fire station is vacant. The extension will solely serve the County’s fire station. NOTE: The Board approved an interlocal agreement between the County and Cape Fear Public Utility Authority (CFPUA) to support the extension of a public water line to Fire Station #12, located at 3805 U.S. Highway 421 North. The interlocal agreement outlines the County’s commitment to funding engineering design services and establishes the framework for the construction of the new water line. Approval of the Bid Award for the Middle Sound Loop/Market Street Connector Trail Construction – Parks The Board awarded the construction contract to Timeless Properties, Inc. in the amount of $1,078,595.73 for the construction of a multi-use trail on Middle Sound Loop from Red Cedar to Publix and Market Street from Mendenhall to the Porters Neck Walmart. The project is funded through previously approved Federal Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBGP-DA) funds. Approval of Local Transition Recommendations for the Community Child Protection Team and Child Fatality Prevention Team – Health and Human Services The Board approved the Local Team being established as a single team, as recommended by staff, and appointed Chrissy Starman, New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office; Vincent Vaccaro, Wilmington Police Department; and Sunnie Batson, New Hanover County Fire Rescue, as the three Local Team members. The Board also acknowledged and supported the ongoing efforts to recruit a parent of a child who died before the age of 18 to fill a remaining position on the team. Approval of the Order of denial for Special Use Permit (S25-02) – County Attorney The Board approved the order denying Special Use Permit (S25-02) as required by North Carolina General Statute 160D-406. A copy of an order denying a Special Use Permit and listing the findings of fact is contained in SUP Book IV, Page 101. REGULAR ITEMS OF BUSINESS PRESENTATION OF SERVICE AWARDS AND INTRODUCTION OF NEW EMPLOYEES County Manager Coudriet recognized the following employees to receive a retirement award: Jeffrey Cromer, Sheriff’s Office, retiring with 25 years of service Susan Henley, Health and Human Services (HHS), retiring with 18 years of service Christopher Preston, Community Justice Service, retiring with 16 years of service Each retiree received a retirement award from the Board in recognition of their dedicated service. County Manager Coudriet then recognized the following employees receiving service awards: NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 36 JUNE 16, 2025 REGULAR MEETING PAGE 580 Five Years: Mary Davis, HHS – Social Services Twenty-Five Years: Amanda Lamkin, HHS – Social Services Thirty Years: Deborah Lovett, HHS – Public Health The Board presented each employee with a service award, thanked them personally, and expressed appreciation for their years of dedicated service. County Manager Coudriet requested the following new employees to stand for introductions: Rosie Amatulli, Sheriff’s Office Brandon Lofton, Facilities Management Shauna Bradley, Planning and Land Use Jorge Minakata-Yanez, HHS – Centralized Support Tracey Daughtry, HHS – Social Services Jared Salema, Building Safety - Inspections Aaron King, HHS – Social Services Tera Willis, HHS – Social Services The Board welcomed the employees to the organization and wished them success in their new positions. PRESENTATION OF 2025 TRILLIUM HEALTH RESOURCES ANNUAL REPORT Cecilia Peers, Regional Vice President of Trillium Health Resources, provided the annual report on Trillium Health Resources, highlighting the following:  Trillium Health Resources Annual Report - New Hanover County:  Trillium Health Resources mission:  Transforming lives and building community well-being through partnerships and proven solutions  While Trillium does not provide direct services, it assists members in connecting with services offered through a contracted local provider network. It reviews prior approval requests for services and reimburses providers for billable services to members.  Members can access services by visiting a network provider or by calling Trillium for a referral to a local provider  Trillium Health Resources overview:  46 counties – largest of the four Tailored Plans  Total population of 3.1 million: 51,000 Tailored Plan members, 163,000 Medicaid direct members, 287,000 uninsured members  Trillium Health Resources local connections matter:  Five regions to assure local connections  Five Regional Advisory Boards with local appointed representatives  Five Consumer and Family Advisory Committees (CFAC)  Governing Board with 10 CFAC and Regional Board representatives  Five regional vice presidents, community engagement and empowerment staff along with community liaisons  Active stakeholder engagement and local participation in planning and service delivery collaboratives  New Hanover County has the following local representatives:  Regional Advisory Board membership: Commissioner Rob Zapple and Julie Varnam  CFAC membership: one member representing Substance Use  Regional Vice President: Cecelia Peers, Cecelia.peers@trilliumnc.org  Community Engagement and Empowerment: Terrell Alston, terrell.alston@trilliumnc.org  Community Liaison Coordinator: Dena Hamilton, dena.hamilton@trilliumnc.org  Trillium Health Resources Revenue Fiscal Year 2024:  Trillium Health Resources members served July-December 2024: NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 36 JUNE 16, 2025 REGULAR MEETING PAGE 581  Medicaid transformation refresher:  2021 - Present: establishment of five standard plans, Medicaid Direct, establishment of Tailored Plans, and state funds  Individuals served by health plans:  New Hanover County Medicaid enrollment:  Project updates:  Substance abuse prevention in schools  Naloxone kits  Training and events  CHESS Health  Healthy Opportunities Pilot  Victory Junction inclusive family weekends  Members served in New Hanover County:  Accessing services:  Member and Recipient Services Line: 1-877-685-2415 Monday-Saturday 7am-6pm  Behavioral Health Crisis Line: 1-888-302-0738 24/7/365  Member and Recipient Services and Behavioral Health Crisis Line staff screen and triage callers, and refer to a provider who can best suit their needs  Access to services is determined by the urgency of need assessed A brief discussion ensued about the presentation. Ms. Peers responded to questions explaining that Trillium contracts with two mobile crisis providers to respond to behavioral health emergencies either by phone or in person, NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 36 JUNE 16, 2025 REGULAR MEETING PAGE 582 regardless of insurance status. These services aim to deescalate crises and connect individuals with appropriate care. She also discussed respite care, which offers temporary support for caregivers and can serve as a bridge during service disruptions, particularly for children. She announced that a new six-bed respite facility is opening in Columbus County to help address regional needs. Regarding funding, she acknowledged concerns about potential Medicaid cuts, noting that significant reductions could shift individuals to more limited state-funded services. She offered to provide data on the number of individuals currently served through Medicaid expansion. Vice-Chair Pierce thanked Ms. Peers for the update. COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS Airlie Gardens Foundation, Inc. Board of Directors Appointments Vice-Chair Pierce reported that three vacancies exist on the Airlie Gardens Foundation, Inc. Board of Directors, with two applicants eligible for reappointment. Commissioner Scalise nominated Nikki Bascome and John Russ for reappointment. Commissioner Zapple seconded the nominations. Hearing no further nominations, Vice-Chair Pierce asked for a vote on the nominations on the floor. Vote Results: The Board voted 4 TO 0 to reappoint Nikki Bascome and John Russ to the Airlie Gardens Foundation, Inc. Board of Directors to serve three-year terms, with the terms to expire on June 30, 2028. Cape Fear Museum Advisory Board Appointments Vice-Chair Pierce reported that four vacancies exist on the Cape Fear Museum Advisory Board with one applicant eligible for reappointment and eight additional applications available for consideration. Commissioner Zapple nominated Susan Barbee for reappointment. Commissioner Walker seconded the nomination. Vote Results: The Board voted 4 TO 0 to reappoint Susan Barbee to the Cape Fear Museum Advisory Board, for three-year terms, with the term expiring June 30, 2028. Commissioner Zapple nominated Charles Pennington for appointment. Commissioner Walker seconded the nomination. Vote Results: The Board voted 2 TO 2 to appoint Charles Pennington to the Cape Fear Museum Advisory Board, for a three-year term, with the term expiring June 30, 2028. The motion failed for lack of a majority, with Vice-Chair Pierce and Commissioner Scalise dissenting. Commissioner Zapple nominated Nancy Bullock for appointment. Commissioner Walker seconded the nomination. Vote Results: The Board voted 2 TO 2 to appoint Nancy Bullock to the Cape Fear Museum Advisory Board, for a three-year term, with the term expiring June 30, 2028. The motion failed for lack of a majority, with Vice-Chair Pierce and Commissioner Scalise dissenting. Commissioner Scalise nominated Latisha Grady for appointment. Vice-Chair Pierce seconded the nomination. Vote Results: The Board voted 2 TO 2 to appoint Latisha Grady to the Cape Fear Museum Advisory Board, for a three- year term, with the term expiring June 30, 2028. The motion failed for lack of a majority, with Commissioners Walker and Zapple dissenting. Commissioner Scalise nominated Laura King for appointment. Vice-Chair Pierce seconded the nomination. Vote Results: The Board voted 2 TO 2 to appoint Laura King to the Cape Fear Museum Advisory Board, for a three- year term, with the term expiring June 30, 2028. The motion failed for lack of a majority, with Commissioners Walker and Zapple dissenting. Commissioner Scalise nominated Justin Lanasa for appointment. Vice-Chair Pierce seconded the nomination. Vote Results: The Board voted 2 TO 2 to appoint Justin Lanasa to the Cape Fear Museum Advisory Board, for a three- year term, with the term expiring June 30, 2028. The motion failed for lack of a majority, with Commissioners Walker and Zapple dissenting. The remaining vacancies will be readvertised for appointment on July 21, 2025. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 36 JUNE 16, 2025 REGULAR MEETING PAGE 583 Cape Fear Public Utility Authority Appointments Vice-Chair Pierce reported that two vacancies exist on the Cape Fear Public Utility Authority, with two applicants eligible for reappointment and five applications are available for consideration. Commissioner Scalise nominated Jennifer Adams and Hank Miller for reappointment. Vice-Chair Pierce seconded the nomination. Vote Results: The Board voted 4 TO 0 to reappoint Jennifer Adams and Hank Miller to the Cape Fear Public Utility Authority, for three-year terms, with terms expiring June 30, 2028. New Hanover County Alcohol Beverage Control Board Appointments Vice-Chair Pierce reported that two vacancies exist on the New Hanover County Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) Board with one applicant eligible for reappointment and three additional applications available for consideration. The Board is also charged with appointing a chairman for the ensuing year. Commissioner Zapple nominated Angie Barr for reappointment. Commissioner Walker seconded the nomination. Vote Results: The Board voted 4 TO 0 to reappoint Angie Barr to the New Hanover County ABC Board to serve a three-year term, with the term expiring June 30, 2028. Commissioner Zapple nominated Carl Brown for appointment. Commissioner Walker seconded the nomination. Vote Results: The Board voted 2 TO 2 to appoint Carl Brown to the New Hanover County ABC Board to serve a three- year term, with the term expiring June 30, 2028. The motion failed for lack of a majority, with Vice-Chair Pierce and Commissioner Scalise dissenting. Commissioner Scalise nominated Jeffrey (Tucker) Stevens for appointment. Commissioner Walker seconded the nomination. Vote Results: The Board voted 2 TO 2 to appoint Jeffrey (Tucker) Stevens to the New Hanover County ABC Board to serve a three-year term, with the term expiring June 30, 2028. The motion failed for lack of a majority, with Commissioners Walker and Zapple dissenting. The remaining vacancy will be readvertised for appointment on July 21, 2025. Commissioner Zapple nominated Angie Barr to serve as Chair for the ensuing year. Commissioner Walker seconded the nomination. Vote Results on Chair: The Board voted 4 TO 0 to reappoint Angie Barr to serve as Chair for the ensuing year. New Hanover County Airport Authority Appointments Vice-Chair Pierce reported that two vacancies exist on the New Hanover County Airport Authority with one applicant eligible for reappointment and ten additional applications available for consideration. Vice-Chair Pierce nominated Jason Thompson for reappointment. Commissioner Scalise seconded the nomination. Hearing no further nominations, Vice-Chair Pierce asked for a vote on the nomination on the floor. Vote Results: The Board voted 4 TO 0 to reappoint Jason Thompson to the New Hanover County Airport Authority to serve a four-year term, with the term expiring June 30, 2029. Commissioner Zapple nominated Terry Espy for appointment. Commissioner Walker seconded the nomination. Vote Results: The Board voted 2 TO 2 to appoint Terry Espy to the New Hanover County Airport Authority to serve a four-year term, with the term expiring June 30, 2029. The motion failed for lack of a majority, with Vice-Chair Pierce and Commissioner Scalise dissenting. Commissioner Scalise nominated Andrew Jones for appointment. Vice-Chair Pierce seconded the nomination. Vote Results: The Board voted 2 TO 2 to appoint Andrew Jones to the New Hanover County Airport Authority to serve a four-year term, with the term expiring June 30, 2029. The motion failed for lack of a majority, with Commissioners Walker and Zapple dissenting. The remaining vacancy will be readvertised for appointment on July 21, 2025. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 36 JUNE 16, 2025 REGULAR MEETING PAGE 584 New Hanover County Board of Mechanical Examiners Appointments Vice-Chair Pierce reported that two vacancies exist on the New Hanover County Board of Mechanical Examiners in the Journeyman Class II Mechanic category, with one application available for consideration and the Journeyman Class II Mechanic category, and one application available for consideration in the Journeyman Class III Mechanic category. Commissioner Scalise nominated Thomas Crittenden, Jr. for appointment in the Journeyman Class II Mechanic category and Scott McComas for appointment in the Journeyman Class III Mechanic category. Commissioner Zapple seconded the nominations. Hearing no further nominations, Vice-Chair Pierce asked for a vote on the nominations on the floor. Vote Results: The Board voted 4 TO 0 to appoint Thomas Crittenden, Jr., for appointment in the Journeyman Class II Mechanic category and Scott McComas for appointment in the Journeyman Class III Mechanic category to the New Hanover County Board of Mechanical Examiners to fill unexpired terms, with the terms to expire August 31, 2026. New Hanover County Commission on African American History, Heritage, and Culture Appointment Vice-Chair Pierce reported that a vacancy exists on the New Hanover County Commission on African American History, Heritage, and Culture in the Faith Community category, with one application available for consideration. Commissioner Walker nominated Sabrina Canty for appointment in the Faith Community category. Commissioner Scalise seconded the nomination. Hearing no further nominations, Vice-Chair Pierce asked for a vote on the nomination on the floor. Vote Results: The Board voted 4 TO 0 to appoint Sabrina Canty for appointment in the Faith 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, 2025. New Hanover County Industrial Facilities and Pollution Control Financing Authority Appointments Vice-Chair Pierce reported that three vacancies exist on the New Hanover County Cooperative Industrial Facilities and Pollution Control Financing Authority with three applications available for reappointment and one additional application available for consideration. Commissioner Scalise nominated Tara Lanier, William Pearson, and Charles Whitley for reappointment. Commissioner Zappler seconded the nominations. Hearing no further nominations, Vice-Chair Pierce asked for a vote on the nominations on the floor. Vote Results: The Board voted 4 TO 0 to reappoint Tara Lanier, William Pearson, and Charles Whitley to the New Hanover County Industrial Facilities and Pollution Control Financing Authority to serve six-year terms, with the terms to expire February 22, 2031. New Hanover County Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Appointments Vice-Chair Pierce reported that two vacancies exist on the New Hanover County Parks and Recreation Advisory Board with two applicants eligible for reappointment and six additional applications available for consideration. Commissioner Scalise nominated Mary Ellen Lavoie and Gayle Tabor for reappointment. Commissioner Walker seconded the nominations. Hearing no further nominations, Vice-Chair Pierce asked for a vote on the nominations on the floor. Vote Results: The Board voted 4 TO 0 to reappoint Mary Ellen Lavoie and Gayle Tabor to the New Hanover County Parks and Recreation Advisory Board to serve three-year terms, with the terms to expire June 30, 2028. New Hanover County Plumbing Board of Examiners Appointments Vice-Chair Pierce reported that two vacancies exist on the New Hanover County Plumbing Board of Examiners, with one applicant available for consideration in the Journeyman Plumber category and one applicant available for consideration in the Master Plumber category. Commissioner Scalise nominated Thomas Crittenden, Jr., for appointment in the Journeyman Plumber category and Randall Siegel for appointment in the Master Plumber category. Vice-Chair Pierce seconded the nominations. Hearing no further nominations, Vice-Chair Pierce asked for a vote on the nominations on the floor. Vote Results: The Board voted 4 TO 0 to reappoint Thomas Crittenden, Jr. in the Journeyman Plumber category and Randall Siegel in the Master Plumber category on the New Hanover County Plumbing Board of Examiners to serve NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 36 JUNE 16, 2025 REGULAR MEETING PAGE 585 unexpired terms, with the terms to expire August 31, 2026. Parks Conservancy of New Hanover County, Inc. Board of Directors Appointments Vice-Chair Pierce reported that four vacancies exist on the Parks Conservancy of New Hanover County, Inc. Board of Directors, with four applicants eligible for reappointment and two applications eligible for consideration. Vice-Chair Pierce nominated Dave Ellegood, Dana Lingenfelser, Sean Olds, and Nivine Richie for reappointment. Commissioner Scalise seconded the nominations. Hearing no further nominations, Vice-Chair Pierce asked for a vote on the nominations on the floor. Vote Results: The Board voted 4 TO 0 to reappoint Dave Ellegood, Dana Lingenfelser, Sean Olds, and Nivine Richie to the Parks Conservancy of New Hanover County, Inc. Board of Directors to serve three-year terms with the terms to expire June 30, 2028. PUBLIC COMMENTS Vice-Chair Pierce stated that 12 people have signed up to speak under public comment and asked that the speakers provide comments. Andy Jones, a resident of Kinsella Court, Wilmington, NC, and representing WARM NC, stated his concerns about the removal of $3 million in workforce housing funds from the County budget, part of the broader $15 million commitment. He shared how WARM used those funds to make critical home repairs for low-income residents. He criticized the lack of public comment on the revised budget and noted its impact, loss of up to 70 jobs, elimination of WIC and Pre-K programs, and unfilled vacancies. He thanked the New Hanover Community Endowment (Endowment) for stepping in but cautioned against the County relying on outside funding for essential services traditionally supported by local government. He urged the Board to grow funding resources rather than shift them. Logan Secord, a resident of New Town Drive, Wilmington, NC, acknowledged the Board’s efforts during the budget process but expressed disappointment in the outcome, calling it short-sighted. Drawing on his experience in large organizations, he warned that cutting support for high performers, reducing contingency funding, eliminating youth programs like Pre-K, and relying on fund balance drawdowns are signs of long-term failure. He cautioned that the $8 million drawdown may offer short-term relief but will lead to greater challenges ahead, particularly in an election year. Mr. Secord concluded by stating that future leaders of his generation will bear the consequences of decisions that weaken the County’s long-term health and stability. Margaret Weller-Stargell, representing Coastal Horizons located on Shipyard Boulevard, Wilmington, NC stated the organization has served New Hanover County for 55 years and now reaches over 20,000 individuals annually, acting as a safety net for victims of assault, youth without housing, young mothers, justice-involved individuals, and those facing mental health or addiction challenges. While appreciative of the County’s partnership and the Endowment’s support, she stressed that the Endowment was never intended to replace consistent public funding. She warned that recent budget cuts will impact key programs, including Justice Services, the Rape Crisis Center, Open House Youth Shelter, and the Maternity Group Home. She noted Coastal Horizons’ national CARF accreditation as a sign of responsible stewardship and urged the Board to maintain strong support for nonprofits serving the County’s most vulnerable residents. Chelsea Lord, a resident of Normandy Drive, Wilmington, NC, expressed concerns about the Board’s decision to cut six Pre-K classrooms from the budget. She stated this action affects 108 at-risk three- and four-year- old children who were previously promised placement and now must seek alternative care, if available and affordable. Ms. Lord emphasized the long-term benefits of early education and noted that the cost of the Pre-K program in the revised budget represented just 0.39%, less than half of one percent. She criticized the decision as harmful and unnecessary, stating that the chair previously supported it as the right thing to do. She concluded that cutting Pre-K is not fiscally conservative but morally wrong. Tim Merrick, a resident of South Second Street, Wilmington, NC, thanked the Board for supporting the school district and helping fill state funding gaps, but encouraged greater investment, noting local per-pupil spending remains below national levels. He criticized the approved tax rate as unnecessarily low, arguing it harms essential services like Pre-K and risks worsening long-term outcomes, including the school-to-prison pipeline. Mr. Merrick also questioned the shift toward relying on the Endowment, especially after the Board declined to support a request for 42 additional school staff. He urged the Board to restore Pre-K funding and sign the letter endorsing additional school staffing before the upcoming deadline. Isabelle Shepherd, representing Cape Fear Alliance for Trees located on Beauregard Drive, Wilmington, NC, described the nonprofit’s work to restore the County’s tree canopy by planting and maintaining trees in public spaces, particularly in areas with poor air quality and high heat. She emphasized the environmental and economic benefits of trees and noted that the work is done by volunteers, not funded by tax dollars. While disappointed that the request for County funding to purchase a truck and trailer was not approved, Ms. Shepherd said the broader concern is the shift from public funding to reliance on the Endowment. She cautioned that the Endowment, though generous, is not a substitute for public accountability or long-term civic partnership. She urged the Board not to redefine its role with nonprofits or use one-time funding to replace sustained County support, stating nonprofits are not asking for handouts but to remain engaged partners in serving the community. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 36 JUNE 16, 2025 REGULAR MEETING PAGE 586 Amy Feath, representing Carousel Center located on Dock Street, Wilmington, NC, thanked the Board and shared her concerns about the FY25–26 budget. First, she noted the long-standing partnership between the County and nonprofits, which fill critical service gaps. Eliminating nonprofit funding as a matter of policy could jeopardize access to state, federal, and foundation grants that require local support, putting many organizations at risk. Second, she opposed the $100,000 cut to Carousel’s DSS vendor contract for child medical evaluations, an essential service for children reported as abused. With major federal funding reductions already impacting victim service agencies, she warned that nonprofits cannot absorb such losses through fundraising alone. She urged the Board to reconsider and engage nonprofit leaders in further dialogue. th Lauren Flannigan, a resident of South 8 Street, Wilmington, NC, urged the Board to reverse its decision to cut funding for six Pre-K classrooms, affecting 180 at-risk children. She noted that last year, 29 of 216 students served were identified with disabilities, many of whom may have gone undiagnosed without early access. She stressed that early childhood education is a smart, cost-effective investment with proven benefits, including better graduation rates, health outcomes, and future earnings. She criticized the Board for granting tax breaks while cutting vital support to those who need it most, calling the decision harmful and urging the Board to restore funding. RECESS: Vice-Chair Pierce called a recess at 10:24 a.m. out of an abundance of caution due to the temporary evacuation of the Historic Courthouse after a threat was called in to 911 referencing an adjacent building. She stated the meeting will resume upon receiving clearance from law enforcement. Vice-Chair Pierce resumed the meeting at 11:36 a.m., thanked everyone for their patience, and continued the meeting with public comments. Melissa Lawrence, a resident of Kirby Smith Drive, Wilmington, NC, stated she was speaking on behalf of the 180 children accepted into the upcoming Pre-K program who are now without placement due to budget cuts. She noted that these are real families left scrambling with only two months to find alternative care, despite having made plans based on the program’s availability. She described the Pre-K program as essential to long-term student success, noting its impact on academic, social, and emotional development. Ms. Lawrence stressed that the loss of these classrooms is not just a one-year setback but a decision with lasting consequences. She urged the Board to reinstate the six Pre-K classrooms. th Jill Hopman, a resident of South 6 Street and chair of the New Hanover County Democratic Party, thanked Commissioners Walker and Zapple for their efforts on a bipartisan budget and expressed disappointment in the outcome, criticizing what she views as partisan influence over fiscal decisions. She referenced a conversation with Chair Rivenbark at a public event, questioning his shift in position between that Friday and the following Monday meeting. She argued that recent budget cuts, affecting education, social services, public health, and cultural programs, would harm residents across party lines. She voiced concern over the elimination of Pre-K classrooms and school nurses, citing personal impact and broader safety implications. She concluded by calling the budget a reflection of extreme partisanship and urged the Board to prioritize the broader community over political pressures. Allison Wine, resident of Walking Horse Court, Wilmington, NC, urged the Board to restore funding for public Pre-K, noting that 108 at-risk children may now lose access to vital early education. She emphasized that Pre- K builds foundational skills in literacy, math, and social-emotional development, especially important for students from underserved communities. She noted the connection between school and broader family challenges, as children still come to school even when facing housing or mental health crises. She commented on strong educator support, with teachers and specialists engaging during their summer break to advocate for the program. She stated that the budget fails to reflect the County’s equity and public service values. John Bauer, resident of Semmes Drive, Wilmington, NC, stated that he is a former county manager and voiced his concerns on using $8 million in fund balance to cover recurring expenses, calling it fiscally irresponsible. He noted that raising taxes is unlikely in an election year, questioning how the County plans to address future shortfalls. He referenced experience in Pender and Lenoir counties, warning that reliance on fund balance risks financial instability, especially if a hurricane or economic disruption impacts the tax base. He urged the Board to preserve fund balance for true emergencies and avoid unsustainable budget practices. ADDITIONAL AGENDA ITEMS OF BUSINESS Commissioner Zapple expressed his concern that the Board failed to hold a full and open public discussion of the FY25–26 County budget. He noted that, traditionally, the county manager presents the budget at a regular meeting open to public input, but this year, a vote was held during a work session with no opportunity for public comment, despite objections from him and Commissioner Walker. He described the adopted budget as harmful, calling it "unnecessarily cruel, backward-looking, and self-defeating." He outlined several impacts of the budget, including loss of over 100 Pre-K seats for at-risk children, cuts to the workforce and affordable housing funding, withdrawal of support from the Northside Food Co-op, termination of vendor contracts with organizations such as the Carousel Center, and elimination of over 100 County jobs across 17 departments. He then read two citizen emails. One described a daughter who had accepted a therapist role at Winter Park Elementary, leaving a stable job and taking a pay cut, only to be notified days before her start date that the position had been cut. The second email, from a longtime North Carolina resident, questioned how the County keeps its tax rate so low while benefiting from rising property values as others lose access to essential services. The citizen urged investment in the County’s future and said she was willing to pay higher taxes to support it. Commissioner Zapple urged the Commissioners to reconsider the budget to protect the community’s long-term well-being. NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 36 JUNE 16, 2025 REGULAR MEETING PAGE 587 Vice-Chair Pierce asked County Manager Coudriet to speak about the public hearing that had been held and the statutory requirements. County Manager Coudriet responded that the budget was presented to the Board st before June 1, as required by state law. A public hearing cannot be held fewer than 10 days after the presentation. The Board held a properly noticed hearing at its first meeting in June, where public comments were received and the hearing was formally closed. The statutory requirement to hold a hearing on the recommended budget was met. Commissioner Zapple stated that he wanted to ensure clarity that the recommended budget presented to the public included a tax rate of 33.9 cents. The budget discussed internally and approved on Thursday reduced the rate to 30.6 cents, representing a $36 million cut from the version presented at the public hearing. This revised budget included multiple cuts, including the Pre-K program, none of which were discussed publicly or subject to public input. He stated those are the key differences. Vice-Chair Pierce acknowledged Commissioner Zapple’s comments and stated that the budget work session th and agenda review held on June 12 were open to the public and live streamed for citizens to watch. Commissioner Walker shared that she had heard from parents, educators, health professionals, nonprofit leaders, and housing advocates who were confused, upset, and anxious about the approved budget. She shared their concern and believed the decision was short-sighted and would cause long-term harm. The budget eliminates 11 school social workers and 14 nurses, positions critical to student health, safety, and learning. Social workers help address mental health challenges, trauma, and family instability, while nurses manage chronic conditions, administer medication, and provide in-school care. Cutting these roles, she said, would directly affect students who rely on these services. She noted that eliminating six Pre-K classrooms displaces 108 children who had already been placed, many of whom are from working families who now face last-minute childcare challenges. Up to 11 Pre-K teaching positions may also be at risk. She stressed that these programs are essential to school readiness, academic success, and family stability. She expressed concern for the at least 75 County employees who lost their jobs without warning, calling the decision unfair, poorly planned, and deeply disruptive to dedicated public servants now scrambling to support their families. She criticized the use of $8.1 million in fund balance to reduce the tax rate, arguing that it created a structural deficit that would limit flexibility in future years and potentially lead to even deeper cuts. She called the 30.6-cent tax rate fiscally irresponsible, noting that the original 33.9-cent rate, already an 11-cent reduction, was a more reasonable compromise. She concluded by stating she does not support the budget, calling the process rushed and lacking transparency. She urged the Board to prioritize children, working families, and public service over politics and to reconsider the long-term consequences of its decisions. Commissioner Scalise said he wanted to address several points, starting with concerns about transparency. He explained that the county manager presented the proposed budget in May, and the public hearing was held at the first available opportunity in June. He noted that Commissioner Zapple made a motion at that meeting to adopt the budget, and now that a different version has passed, he was objecting to the process. He stated it was disingenuous to claim the process was rushed when, in fact, Commissioner Zapple had attempted to pass the original budget at the first opportunity, without additional public input. He acknowledged the comments shared in the room and submitted by email, expressing genuine appreciation, even if those present might not believe it. He said there are 245,000 people in the community and just as many opinions on the proper role of government and budget priorities. He noted that while the budget has been described in severe terms, the adopted budget still increased County spending by $11 million compared to last year. He emphasized that funding increased for public schools, the Sheriff’s Office, senior resources, veterans, the District Attorney’s office, and other core services. He then read a series of emails he received from senior citizens asking the Board not to raise property taxes. Several messages described financial strain due to reassessment, living on fixed incomes, and the risk of losing their homes. One noted a 24% increase in taxes, another said the proposed increase was "reckless," and several expressed concern that long- time residents would not be able to stay in their homes. He stated these were real concerns from real people, and while they may not have been represented in the room, their voices mattered too. He emphasized that commissioners must consider all viewpoints and make decisions they believe are best for the whole community. He added that, in his view, the County should not be directing how schools allocate their funds, and that it was more appropriate to provide total funding for the school board to manage. He also addressed the recent bomb threat, stating that violence and threats have no place in civil disagreement. He expressed appreciation to those who wrote the Board and spoke at meetings, stating that while he understands the disagreement, the Board is tasked with making the best decision possible based on the totality of input from the entire community. Commissioner Zapple responded to a point made earlier by Commissioner Scalise, clarifying the distinction between the original 33.9-cent tax rate budget and the revised version that was ultimately adopted. He emphasized that the 33.9-cent budget was publicly announced, distributed, and accompanied by a formal public hearing, giving residents time to review and provide feedback. In contrast, he said he first saw the revised version and its associated cuts during the meeting on Thursday, presented on a slide with no prior notice or opportunity to study the changes. He described being blindsided by a request to vote on it immediately, without adequate time for review or questions. He noted that the key difference was a transparent public hearing process compared to an abrupt presentation lacking public input. He echoed Commissioner Walker’s concerns about the impact of eliminating 14 school nurse positions. He noted that over 1,000 students in the school district have active emergency action plans, and 30% of students have chronic health conditions. Food allergies have increased by 88% over the last two decades; 8.1% of students have asthma requiring inhalers or medication; and approximately one in 350 students has Type 1 diabetes, which requires frequent medical management. Additionally, 5% of students are expected to experience a seizure during childhood, including while at school. He stated these are not issues that can wait for a nurse to travel from another school or be addressed the next day. Cutting 14 of the 42 school nurses funded by the County is, in his view, NEW HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOOK 36 JUNE 16, 2025 REGULAR MEETING PAGE 588 irresponsible. He added that today's school nurses are not just treating minor injuries; they are performing medical triage, administering critical medication throughout the day, and ensuring care continues during field trips. He concluded that these nurses are essential to the safety and well-being of students, particularly the more than 1,000 with known medical conditions. Vice-Chair Pierce thanked the public for attending and speaking, expressing appreciation for their engagement. She stated that the County does fund Pre-K, but the classrooms currently in question were part of an expansion previously funded with COVID dollars that have since expired. She expressed support for directing education funds to the school board and allowing them to determine how to allocate them, stating they are better positioned to decide what should be funded. She emphasized that the County has not given up on Pre-K and said it was her understanding that the classrooms would be funded, with ongoing efforts to determine how. Regarding non-county agency funding, she reaffirmed her commitment to those organizations and noted that the County had worked with the Endowment to help secure funding for this year while decisions are made about the future. Despite differing views, she thanked her fellow Commissioners for remaining respectful during the meeting and said the day’s events reflected what elected officials face across the country. She expressed concern that good people may choose not to run for office due to fear for their safety and said that should not happen. She thanked the Sheriff’s Office for its swift response and the public for their patience. She closed by encouraging continued respectful public engagement and called for reflection on how to move forward in a peaceful way. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, Vice-Chair Pierce adjourned the meeting at 12:15 p.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.