09/02/1998
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Department Focal:
Prior to the business session of the New Hanover County Board of Health, "A Ramp Ribbon
Cutting" was held at 8:00 a.m. Wednesday, September 2, 1998.
Invocation:
Mrs. Anne B. Rowe, New Hanover County Board of Health Member, presented the
invocation.
A "Ramp Ribbon Cutting"
A "Ribbon Cutting, " a celebration for the official opening of the new ramp at the front
entrances of the health department for clients, was sponsored by the New Hanover County
Board of Commissioners, New Hanover County Board of Health, and New Hanover County
Health Department.
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Mr. David E. Rice, Health Director, was Master of Ceremonies for the program. Mr.
Robert G. Greer, Vice-Chairman, New Hanover County Commissioners, and New Hanover
County Board Member, extended the Welcome. Mr. Rice and Ms. Lynda F. Smith,
Assistant Health Director, presented Comments and Recognitions regarding the history, the
need for the ramp, and expressed their appreciation for the health department ramp. They
recognized health department guests, county officials, architects, contractors, and others
contributing to making the ramp a reality.
The "Ribbon Cutting" followed. Dr. Dennis L. Jackson, Chairman, and Mr. William T.
Steuer, Vice Chairman, of the New Hanover County Board of Health, held the ribbon. The
ribbon was cut by Mr. Robert G. Greer, Vice-Chairman, New Hanover County
Commissioners, and Ms. Ola Bell Ball, Retired Public Health Nurse, New Hanover County
Health Department. Ms. Ball expressed the need for the ramp when she was employed at
the health department.
Business Session:
Dr. Dennis L. Jackson, Chairman, called the regular business meeting of the New Hanover
County Board of Health (NHCBH) to order at 8:20 a.m., Wednesday, September 2, 1998, in
the Dr. Thomas Fanning Wood Memorial Conference Room, New Hanover County Health
Department, Wilmington, North Carolina.
Members Present:
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Dennis L. Jackson, DVM, Chairman
William T. Steuer, PE/RLS, Vice-Chairman
Henry V. Estep, RHU
Michael E. Goins, OD
Robert G. Greer, County Commissioner
Gela N. Hunter, Nurse Practitioner
Wilson O'Kelly Jewell, DDS
W. Edwin Link, Jr., RPH
Anne Braswell Rowe
Estelle G. Whitted, RN
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Members Absent:
Thomas V. Clancy, MD
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Others Present:
David E. Rice, Health Director
Lynda F. Smith, Assistant Health Director
Frances F. De Vane, Recording Secretary
Minutes:
Dr. Jackson asked for corrections to the minutes of the August 5, 1998 New Hanover County
Board of Health Meeting. The minutes of the meeting of August 5, 1998, were approved by
the New Hanover County Board of Health.
Recognitions:
A "Ramp Ribbon Cutting"
On behalf of the Board of Health, Dr. Jackson expressed appreciation to those who
contributed to the success of the "Ramp Ribbon Cu~ing" ceremony.
Introduction of UNCW Students
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Mr. Rice welcomed and introduced Courtney Birch and Mary Stokes, UNCW Nursing
Students.
Personnel
New Employees
Mr. Rice introduced the following new health department employees:
Candace A. Artis, Licensed Practical Nurse II, Child Health
Mildred C. Lincoln, Clinical/Clerical Assistant, Communicable Disease
Sheri W. Parrish, Clerical Specialist I, Communicable Disease (Not Present)
Dr. Jackson welcomed the above new health department staff members.
Committee Reports:
Executive Committee
Dr. Jackson, Chairman, Executive Committee, reported the Executive Committee met at 6:00
p.m. Tuesday, September 1, 1998, at the health department. Items discussed are on the Board I
of Health Agenda under New Business.
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Environmental Health Committee
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Mr. Steuer, Chairman, Environmental Health Committee, announced the Environmental
Health Committee will meet at 5:30 p.m., Wednesday, September 9, 1998. The committee is
reviewing the cost of services and fees.
Health Promotion Committee
Dr. Goins, Chairman, Health Promotion Committee, reported the Health Promotion
Committee met at 6:00 p.m., Monday, August 31, 1998. Ms. Connie Parker, Executive
Director, Wilmington Health Access For Teens (WHAT), presented a history and an
overview of the activities and services of WHAT including adolescent pregnancy. He
advised a week before the Health Promotion Committee meeting, a group of people met to
discuss teenage pregnancy prevention programs and the coordination of services between
agencies. This group plans to meet again and plan for the collaboration of agency efforts
engaged in adolescent pregnancy prevention.
Unfinished Business:
New Business:
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Rabies Adoption Policy Task Force Recommendations
Dr. Jackson reported the Executive Committee made recommendations regarding the ACS
Adoption Policies and Procedures recommended by the Rabies Adoption Policy Task Force.
He explained the Task Force was formed due to the spread of rabies in New Hanover County
and North Carolina.
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Mr. Ron Currie, Animal Control Services, advised the ACS staff needs additional guidelines
since the implementation of the adoption procedures. He requested guidance regarding the
adoption procedures including quarantine control for animals failing physical examinations,
determination of animal wounds, dealing with breed specific rescue organizations, and on
rabies vaccinations of animals.
Ouarantine Control for Screening
Dr. Jackson recommended from the Executive Committee for the Board of Health to approve
the Procedures for Quarantine Control for Screening of Animals for adoption from the
shelter.
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The Board of Health reviewed the quarantine screening procedures. Mr. Currie explained
the six-month quarantine period is a state law. He stated the Humane Society requires a
rabies vaccination and our current policy does not require a rabies vaccination prior to
adoption. The potential adopter/owner is charged $8.00 per day. The total cost for the
quarantine period is approximately $1,400. Mr. Rice informed this fee does not cover the
actual expense. Mr. Currie advised the Executive Committee's recommendation states the
fees must be paid in full or in three equal monthly payments in advance of confinement at
the ACS Shelter. It will allow the public another option for payment of fees.
Dr. Jackson stated the adoption procedure should be the same for all breeds and not breed
specific. The breeder should pay the quarantine expense and not the taxpayer. Dr. Jackson
stated breed specification and the advertising of breeds have created problems with breed
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rescue organizations and for the ACS staff.
The Board of Health reviewed the Quarantine Control for Screening and recommended the I
establishment of the following procedures:
1. Six (6) months quarantine required (time animal has spent at Animal Control
Services (ACS) may be deducted) - 180 days total.
2. Animal must be confined at ACS Shelter.
3. Fees must be paid in full or in three (3) equal monthly payments in advance
of confinement.
4. If animal becomes ill during confinement, it will be euthanized and tested for
rabies at ACS discretion.
5. Animal not adopted remains ACS property until end of confinement.
6. Interested party may not walk or handle animal during confinement.
7. Animal may be adopted from ACS at end of the six (6) month period after
payment of adoption fee and compliance with adoption procedures.
Failure to comply with all portions of this contract renders it null and void.
MOTION: Dr. Jackson, Chairman, Executive Committee, recommended from the I
Executive Committee for the Board of Health to accept and approve the above Quarantine
Control for Screening of Animals for Adoption from the Animal Control Services Shelter
without advertisement or specification of the breed of an animal held in the ACS Shelter.
Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Physical Examinations
Adoption Procedures Dealing With Animal Wounds
Dr. Jackson recommended from the Executive Committee for the Board to approve the
Adoption Procedures Dealing With Animal Wounds which state "Animals with wounds that
appear to be bite wounds cannot be adopted from the ACS Shelter and the shelter staff may
use discretion in the adoption of animals with other types of wounds."
A discussion followed on the identification of animal wounds. ACS Shelter Manager Judy
Evonko stated an animal bite looks round and circular. She advised if the current adoption
policy permitted staff to decide if an animal wound is a bite or scratch wound, it would
improve the adoption process. She recommended the staff be allowed to decide regarding
either adoption or euthanasia based on the type of wound. 0
MOTION: Dr. Jackson, Chairman, Executive Committee, recommended from the
Executive Committee for the Board of Health to approve the Adoption Procedures Dealing
with Wounds On Animals that state "Animals with wounds that appear to be bite wounds I
cannot be adopted from the Animal Control Services Shelter and the shelter staff may use
discretion in the adoption of animals with other types of wounds." Upon vote, the
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
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Procedures for Animal Control Services and Breed Specific Rescue Organizations
Dr. Jackson recommended from the Executive Committee for the Board to approve the
Procedures for Animal Control Services and Breed Specific Rescue Organizations for
Screening of Animals for adoption from the shelter.
The Board of Health reviewed the Procedures for Animal Control Services and Breed
Specific Rescue Organizations. Dr. Jackson reiterated all breeds should be treated alike.
Mr. Steuer asked about why ACS staff informs rescue groups of a specific breed which is in
the shelter for adoption. Field Supervisor Jean McNeil responded it prevents staff from
notifying breed rescue groups. The Board decided to include in the procedures it is not the
responsibility of ACS to call the different rescue groups when a breed is brought into the shelter.
The Board of Health approved the following Procedures for ACS and Breed Specific
Rescue Organizations:
1. Animal Control Services (ACS) will NOT call the different rescue groups when a
breed is brought into the shelter.
2. Those dogs and cats in the adoption area of the shelter are the only animals that the
rescue groups may attempt to rescue.
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3. Animal Control Services still has control of animals when they become property of
the County and may not request the help of a particular group. Animal Control
Services may move animals to the Humane Society if it is considered in the best
interest of the animal.
RESCUE RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. It is NOT the responsibility of Animal Control Services to inform Breed Specific
Rescue Organizations of animals for adoption.
2. A representative of the rescue groups, Kennel Club, etc. may check daily with an ONSITE
visit to see what is available for adoption and take the appropriate action.
3. Humane Society should also be checked on a daily basis.
4. Local veterinarians should also be given a list of contact people for the various breeds and a
contact within the group designated to keep in touch with breed rescue.
MOTION: Dr. Jackson, Chairman, Executive Committee, recommended from the
Executive Committee for the Board of Health to approve the above Adoption Procedures for
Animal Control Services and Breed Specific Rescue Organizations. Upon vote, the
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
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Humane's Society Representative to the Animal Control Services Advisory Committee
Dr. Jackson recommended from the Executive Committee for the Board to approve Ms.
Joyce Bradley to serve on the New Hanover County Animal Control Services Advisory
Committee. Mr. Ron Currie informed the Board of Health Ms. Timmi Evans will not
represent the Humane Society on the Animal Control Services Advisory Committee. He
stated Ms. Joyce Bradley, a past ACS Advisory Committee Member, has agreed to serve on
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the ACS Committee as the Humane Society Representative.
MOTION: Dr. Jackson, Chairman, Executive Committee, recommended from the I
Executive Committee for the Board of Health to approve the appointment of Ms. Joyce
Bradley to fill the unexpired term of Ms. Timmi Evans and to serve on the New Hanover
County Animal Control Services Advisory Committee as Humane Society Representative.
Upon vote, the ~OTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Subdivision Review Process
Ms. Dianne Harvell, Environmental Health Director, presented a summary of the Lucia Point
Subdivision Review Process. She reported the New Hanover County Technical Review
Committee (TRC) originally approved the preliminary plan for the subdivision on May 10,
1995. This preliminary plan expired on May 10, 1996, and was again approved by August
21, 1996, by the TRC with condition that environmental disclosure would be required before
final plat approval if lead is identified to be present on the site. In 1997, seven lots were
identified as high risk sites.
Ms. Harvell advised the New Hanover County Subdivision Ordinance does not require an
Environmental Impact Study. She expressed the County Planning staff and the Technical
Review Committee acted strongly in the public interest when they required remediation or
environmental disclosure on the lots at Lucia Point.
Mr. Steuer asked what could be done to require an Environmental Impact Study as a part of
the Subdivision Review Process. Mrs. Harvell advised the Board of Health could request an
amendment to the New Hanover County Subdivision Ordinance. Mr. Steuer emphasized an
environmental impact statement should be included in the Subdivision Review Process.
It was the consensus of the Board of Health to refer the study of Subdivision Review Process
back to the Environmental Health Committee.
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Road Show
Dr. Jackson recommended from the Executive Committee for the Board to arrange Board of
Health meetings at three sites to increase knowledge of Board of Health members regarding
these agencies. Each of the following agencies will present a department focal:
1. WHAT
2. New Hanover Community Center
3. Animal Control Services Shelter
MOTION: Dr. Jackson, Chairman, Executive Committee, recommended from the
Executive Committee for the Board of Health to approve arranging a quarterly business
meeting of the Board of Health at the above three sites to increase the Board of Health's
knowledge of each agency via a site visit and an agency department focal. Upon vote, the
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Mr. Rice, Health Director, advised Dr. Goins suggested the above Road Show and quarterly
meetings at the last Executive Committee.
Other Business:
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Comments:
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Board Members:
Body Piercing
Mr. Link stated he is interested in establishing licensing requirements for body piercing in
New Hanover County. He advised body piercing operators must be certified operators
within six months in Horry County, South Carolina. The cost is $1,200. He suggested
contacting Myrtle Beach to learn about the body piercing licensing and certification process
and regulations. Mr. Rice stated he would work with Ms. Dianne Harvell and the
Environmental Health Committee on this issue. .
Ms. Harvell informed the Board that State Tattoo Regulations were enacted before 1995.
The Board of Health established regulations requiring training for tattoo artists in 1992. Dr.
Jackson recommended incorporating body piercing in the tattoo regulations.
Letter of Appreciation to County Officials and Staff Participating in Hurricane
Dr. Goins requested a letter of appreciation on behalf of the Board of Health be drafted to the
New Hanover County Commissioners, Kure Beach Board of Commissioners, Wilmington
City Council, Wrightsville Beach Board of Alderman, and the Health Department Staff for
their response to Hurricane Bonnie.
Dr. Jackson commended the Health Department Staff, county and municipal officials, and
other county and city employees for their efficient services relating to Hurricane Bonnie.
Health Director:
North Carolina Public Health Association (NCPHA) Annual Meeting
Mr. Rice reminded Board members of the NCPHA Annual Meeting on September 16-18, at
the Holiday Inn Bordeaux in Fayetteville, N.C.
FEMA
Mr. Rice reported he attended a FEMA Integrated Emergency Management
Course/Hurricane: Recovery and Mitigation held at the National Emergency Training Center
on August 17-21, in Emmitsburg, Maryland. He stated it was a comprehensive course and
that one week later this additional knowledge was applied during Hurricane Bonnie.
Hurricane Bonnie Preparedness. Response. Recovery and Mitigation
Mr. Rice gave a presentation entitled Hurricane Bonnie Preparedness, Response, Recovery
and Mitigation. He commended Mr. Dan Summers, Director, Emergency Management
Services and Staff for their work during the stages of Hurricane Bonnie.
Mr. Rice's audio visual presentation included a history of North Carolina hurricanes, a daily
(24-hour) Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Log for the Health Department hurricane
activities, and the four stages of Hurricane Bonnie (preparedness, response, recovery and
mitigation). He explained the hurricane response time was approximately 48 hours, the
recovery will take one to two years, and the mitigation phase is time spent planning what to
do to minimize the effects of future hurricanes.
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The presentation included Health Department activities during Hurricane Bonnie. These
responsibilities included nursing services in shelters, Animal Control Services Shelter for I
animals, Environmental Health services including water, food, and environmental safety,
Vector Control services including spraying for mosquitoes, preparation of press releases,
plus many other responsibilities related to public health.
Ms. Betty Creech, Community Health Director, expressed the dire need for generators in the
shelters. She explained difficulties experienced in the shelters were due to a lack of
electricity, water and sewer system. She requested the support of the Board of Health and
the County Commissioners to obtain generators for future hurricanes and emergencies. Mr.
Greer, Vice Chairman, New Hanover County Commissioners stated he plans to address the
need for electricity and water in the shelters. He stated the county had paid for the
generators to be used in the emergency shelters.
Other Business:
Vector Control Boat
Mr. Steuer advised funds need to be secured for the purchase of a boat for the Vector Control
Program of the Environmental Health Division. He stated it is needed and the present boat is
not safe.
Adjourn:
There being no other business, the regular business meeting of the Board of Health was
adjourned at 9:45 a. m.
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Dennis L. Jackson, M, Chairman
New Hanover County Board of Health
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David E. Rice, M.P .H., M.A., Health Director
New Hanover County Health Department
Approved:
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