Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - 20080501 APPROVED 8/19/2008 MINUTES ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING May 1, 2008 7:30 p.m. The Orange County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Thursday, May 1, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. in the Southern Human Services Center in Chapel Hill North Carolina. COUNTY COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Chair Barry Jacobs and Commissioners Valerie P. Foushee, and Alice M. Gordon COUNTY COMMISSIONERS ABSENT: Commissioner Nelson and Commissioner Carey COUNTY ATTORNEYS PRESENT: Geoffrey Gledhill COUNTY STAFF PRESENT: County Manager Laura Blackmon, Assistant County Managers Willie Best and Gwen Harvey, and Clerk to the Board Donna S. Baker (All other staff members will be identified appropriately below) NOTE: ALL DOCUMENTS REFERRED TO IN THESE MINUTES ARE IN THE PERMANENT AGENDA FILE IN THE CLERK'S OFFICE. 1. Additions or Changes to the Agenda Chair Jacobs said that there is one change to the agenda, which is a resolution to Foster Genocide Remembrance, item 3-a-1. The Board agreed to add this item. PUBLIC CHARGE The Chair dispensed with the reading of the public charge. 2. Public Comments a. Matters not on the Printed Agenda b. Matters on the Printed Agenda (These matters were considered when the Board addressed that item on the agenda below.) 3. Proclamations/ Resolutions/ Special Presentations a. National Historic Preservation Month The Board considered proclaiming May 2008 as National Historic Preservation Month in Orange County and authorizing the Chair to sign the proclamation. Environment and Conservation Director David Stancil introduced this item and introduced Chair of the Historic Preservation Commission, Tom Allison. He said that the theme this year is, "This Place Matters." He listed the activities of National Historic Preservation Month. Tom Allison read the Proclamation and spoke about the recent photography contest called, "Heritage Corridors." A motion was made by Commissioner Foushee, seconded by Commissioner Gordon to approve proclaiming May 2008 as National Historic Preservation Month in Orange County and authorize the Chair to sign the proclamation. VOTE: UNANIMOUS a-1. A Resolution to Foster Genocide Remembrance The Board considered a resolution to recognize and remember the millions who have perished through acts of genocide. Chair Jacobs pointed out that the County Commissioners used to do something for Armenian Martyrs Day, and then they stopped; and they were going to do something related to the Holocaust, but they stopped. He heard something on the radio about Holocaust Remembrance Day tomorrow and he thought about incorporating them all into one resolution. Human Rights and Relations Director Shoshannah Smith introduced this item and read the resolution. A RESOLUTION TO FOSTER GENOCIDE REMEMBRANCE WHEREAS, throughout history genocide has been a tragic part of humanity's existence; and WHEREAS It is important to acknowledge that we are all partners in justice with a shared legacy of intolerance; and WHEREAS, Americans have contributed to historical acts of genocide, including the 10- 20 million black Africans who died during the 200 years of the international slave trade, and the decimation of nearly 12 million Native American Indians in North America between 1600 and 1850; and WHEREAS, the country of Armenia recognizes April 24 as Genocide Remembrance Day in recognition of the government-ordered deaths of 1.5 million Armenians in 1915; and WHEREAS, May 2nd 2008 is recognized as Holocaust Remembrance Day, in honor of the victims of Nazi genocide, including more than 6 million Jews and approximately 5.5 million other targeted groups including Gypsies, Poles, gays and lesbians, Jehovah's Witnesses, and others; and WHEREAS, other major acts of genocide have taken place during the past century, including but not limited to Stalin's Forced famine: (1932 —1933: 7,000,000 Ukrainian deaths); Rape of Nanking (1937 — 1938: 300,000 Chinese deaths and more than 20,000 rapes); Pol Pot Cambodia (1975-1979: 1.7 million deaths); Rwanda (1994; 800,000 Tutsis deaths); Bosnia-Herzegovina (1992-1995: 200,000 Muslim deaths); and most recently Darfur, Sudan (2003-present; 200,000 deaths); and WHEREAS, it is important to remember history so that mistakes of the past are not repeated for future generations; and WHEREAS, Orange County finds it equally important to remember the atrocities committed against all peoples in the name of religious, racial and ethnic cleansing so that we may recognize the inevitable outcomes of our daily intolerance; NOW, THEREFORE, do we, the Commissioners of Orange County, pass this Resolution to Foster Genocide Remembrance, and encourage Orange County residents to reflect upon all acts of genocide and intolerance. THIS THE 1st DAY OF MAY, 2008. A motion was made by Commissioner Foushee, seconded by Commissioner Gordon to approve the resolution recognizing and remembering the millions who have perished through acts of genocide. VOTE: UNANIMOUS b. National Tourism Week The Board considered proclaiming the week of May 10 through 18, 2008 as National Tourism Week in Orange County and authorizing the Chair to sign the proclamation. Communications Director of the Visitor's Bureau, Patty Griffin, introduced this item. She thanked the County Commissioners for consideration of this proclamation. The theme is, "Discover Great American Traditions." Commissioner Gordon read the proclamation. NATIONAL TOURISM WEEK PROCLAMATION May 10-18, 2008 WHEREAS, the travel and tourism industry in Orange County is vital to our economic stability and growth, and it contributes substantially to our cultural and social well being; and WHEREAS, travel benefits every person by substantially enhancing our personal growth and education, while promoting intercultural understanding and appreciation of Orange County's history, geography and culture; and WHEREAS, tourism is a growth industry in Orange County generating $137.6 million in expenditures in 2006 — an increase of 8.2 percent over the previous year's figures — ranking the County 24th in travel impact among North Carolina's 100 counties according to the Travel Industry Association of America; and WHEREAS, state and local tax revenues from travel to Orange County amounted to $10.56 million in 2006, representing an $85 tax saving to each County resident; and WHEREAS, more than 1,710 jobs in Orange County were directly attributable to travel and tourism in 2006; and WHEREAS, travel generated a $27.62 million payroll in 2006; and WHEREAS, our area attractions, welcome centers and tours hosted more than 1.68 million visitors in 2007; NOW THEREFORE, we, the Orange County Board of Commissioners, recognize the efforts of the Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau and do hereby proclaim May 10 - 18, 2008 as NATIONAL TOURISM WEEK in Orange County, with the theme DISCOVER GREAT AMERICAN TRADITONS. Let's discover and appreciate Orange County's great tourism traditions, which illustrate the importance of tourism to our community. This the 1st day of May, 2008. A motion was made by Commissioner Gordon, seconded by Commissioner Foushee to approve proclaiming the week of May 10 through 18, 2008 as National Tourism Week in Orange County and authorize the Chair to sign the proclamation. VOTE: UNANIMOUS c. Resolution of Appreciation for Volunteers Serving on County Advisory Boards and Commissions The Board considered a resolution of appreciation for the volunteers who serve on County advisory boards and commissions and authorizing the Chair to sign. Vivette Jeffries-Logan introduced this item and read the resolution. RESOLUTION VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION IN ORANGE COUNTY Whereas, the annual National Volunteer Week, a 35-year tradition, with a theme of "Volunteer to Change the World" is April 27—May 3, 2008; and, Whereas, National Volunteer Week designates a special time to recognize and celebrate the tremendous efforts of volunteers and is held to recognize and celebrate the efforts of volunteers at the local, state and national levels; and, Whereas, individuals and communities are at the center of social change discovering their power to make a difference; and, Whereas, between September 2006 and September 2007, nearly 60 million volunteers stepped forward to make our communities a better place to live; and, Whereas, during this week, all over the nation, service projects will be performed and volunteers recognized for their commitment to service; and, Whereas, thousands of volunteers give of their time, energy and expertise to Orange County and other organizations to provide needed services to County residents; and, Whereas, volunteers have greatly contributed to the enrichment of our communities to help make Orange County a better place to live; and, Whereas, our 416 volunteers on our various boards and commissions are an invaluable asset to Orange County departments and they contribute to the cost effectiveness and efficiency of government operations; and, Whereas, the involvement of volunteers has strengthened and reinforced the democratic process by volunteers contributing their time to help address community challenges; and, Whereas, during National Volunteer Week, the Orange County Board of County Commissioners will show its appreciation to its dedicated volunteers by presenting each with a gift; Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved that the Orange County Board of Commissioners sincerely thanks its volunteers for their community spirit, expertise, dedication and commitment to the residents of Orange County and hereby recognizes the week of April 27 through May 3, 2008 as VOLUNTEER WEEK IN ORANGE COUNTY This the 1st day of May 2008. A motion was made by Commissioner Foushee, seconded by Commissioner Gordon to approve a resolution of appreciation for the volunteers who serve on County advisory boards and commissions and authorize the Chair to sign. VOTE: UNANIMOUS d. Presentation — New Hope Preserve The Board received a special presentation of artwork displayed at a recent Durham County celebration of the acquisition of property for the New Hope Preserve. Chair Jacobs said that he represented the Board at an event a few weeks ago and it was a pleasant and happy occasion with the Durham County Commissioners, because it is another unusual example of multiple governments working together to do something across county lines for the betterment of all of our citizens. This also helps to attract grant funds. David Stancil echoed Chair Jacobs' comments. He said that this preserve meets a 20- year old goal of trying to protect New Hope Creek where it leaves Duke Forest through Erwin Road, all the way to the Durham County line. Orange County was also able to acquire about 41 acres at about $4,000 per acre, which is about 1/5 of the market value. e. Rogers Road Community Enhancement Task Force — Recommendations The Board considered the Historic Rogers Road Community Enhancement Plan Development and Monitoring Task Force's recommended Historic Rogers Road Enhancement Area Map delineation and list of proposed community enhancements. Chair Jacobs said that Commissioner Carey and Commissioner Foushee worked diligently on this and he wanted to share this with the rest of the Board. Commissioner Foushee made reference to the abstract and said that the task force met seven times between June and November 2007. The recommendations were agreed upon by the members of the task force. There was a question regarding item #5, which is, "Institute a moratorium on property taxes. Pay for/subsidize future taxes for the residents in the community enhancement area for as long as any solid waste facilities remain in their community." She wants to run this by the County Attorney. The task force did not discuss how these recommendations would move forward to the other governmental entities. Chair Jacobs said that he had a question about#10, "Bring the bus service down Rogers Road..." He said that at one point he was approached by one of the Mayors about whether Orange County would be willing to financially support an additional bus route on Rogers Road and he said that it sounded reasonable, but he did not speak for the Board. He asked the Manager to check with Chapel Hill Transit about this possibility. Rev. Robert Campbell had signed up to speak to this item, and he thanked the Board for the opportunity to speak. He said that the Board has had the recommendation for quite awhile, and he believes that the recommendation advises what Orange County speaks about in regards to sustainability for community development and for maintaining affordable homes, responsible growth, and preservation. He said that these recommendations, if implemented, would preserve history for this community, and it would be a great service to the community. He said that this enhancement list is almost a copy of the enhancement list that was developed in the 90's and that was accepted in 2001, but not implemented. 4. Consent Agenda A motion was made by Commissioner Foushee, seconded by Commissioner Gordon to approve those items on the consent agenda as stated below: a. Minutes The Board approved the minutes from the April 1 reconvened Quarterly Public Hearing and the April 1, 2008 Regular Meeting as submitted by the Clerk to the Board. b. Appointments (1) Chapel Hill Planning Board — Reappointment The Board reappointed James Stroud to a full term expiring June 30, 2011 to the Chapel Hill Planning Board. (2) Hillsborough Planning Board — Reappointment The Board reappointed Arthur"Neil" Jones to a full term expiring April 30, 2011 to the Hillsborough Planning Board. c. Child Support Attorney Contract Renewal The Board renewed a contract with Coleman, Gledhill, Hargrave and Peek to provide legal representation for the Child Support Office and authorized the Chair to sign. d. Housing Bond Program — Habitat for Humanity The Board awarded housing bond funds in the amount of $362,000 to Habitat for Humanity to purchase land in the Northern Fairview community in Hillsborough and to provide nine deferred second mortgages to first-time homebuyers in this community and authorized the Manager, in consultation with the County Attorney, to enter into a development agreement detailing the provisions of the award. e. Housing Bond Program — Orange Community Housing and Land Trust The Board awarded housing bond funds in the amount of $100,000 to Orange Community Housing and Land Trust to purchase a dwelling and lot on Milton Avenue in Chapel Hill and authorized the Manager, in consultation with the County Attorney, to enter into a development agreement detailing the provisions of the award. f. Consolidated Housing Plan Annual Update/HOME Program The Board adopted resolutions, which are incorporated by reference, approving the 2008 Consolidated Housing Plan Annual Update and the proposed HOME Program Activities for 2008-2009 and authorized the Manager to implement the HOME Program as approved by the BOCC, including the ability to execute agreements with partnering non-profit organizations after consultation with the County Attorney. Approval of Fiscal Year 2008-09 County Civil Penalty, Fee and Occupancy Tax Changes This item was removed and placed at the end of the consent agenda for separate consideration. h. Approval of Fiscal Year 2008-09 School and County Capital Project Ordinances This item was removed and placed at the end of the consent agenda for separate consideration. i. Proposed Grant Application for Smart Growth Implementation Assistance This item was removed and placed at the end of the consent agenda for separate consideration. L Legal Advertisement for Quarterly Public Hearing — May 19, 2008 This item was removed and placed at the end of the consent agenda for separate consideration. k. Schools Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance (SAPFO) — Review of Annual Technical Advisory Committee Report This item was removed and placed at the end of the consent agenda for separate consideration. I. Swallow's Ridge — Preliminary Plan This item was removed and placed at the end of the consent agenda for separate consideration. VOTE ON CONSENT AGENDA: UNANIMOUS ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT AGENDA: Approval of Fiscal Year 2008-09 County Civil Penalty, Fee and Occupancy Tax Changes The Board considered approving proposed 2008-09 civil penalty, fee and occupancy tax changes and directing staff to begin public outreach campaigns to notify the public of the increases during May and June 2008. Chair Jacobs asked about the education effort on the animal fees. He said that, as a citizen, he does not feel any more educated than he was when this was discussed in December. Animal Services Director Bob Marotto said that staff has followed the timetable that accompanied the abstract for adoption of the changed fees and times. This was a timetable regarding public relations and included some activities that have already occurred (i.e., display ad in the News of Orange and Orange Extra, flyers in different locations, media advisories, etc.). There is still a two-month period before the actual implementation, and education will continue. Chair Jacobs asked about public service ads and Bob Marotto said that he would explore this and that there would still be media advisories. Chair Jacobs suggested including information in the tax bill about why the changes are being made. A motion was made by Chair Jacobs, seconded by Commissioner Gordon to approve the proposed 2008-09 civil penalty, fee, and occupancy tax changes and direct staff to begin public outreach campaigns to notify the public during May and June 2008 of the changes. VOTE: UNANIMOUS h. Approval of Fiscal Year 2008-09 School and County Capital Project Ordinances The Board considered approval of County and School capital project ordinances for fiscal year 2008-09 and reallocation of $100,000 in 2007-08 approved capital funds to allow for emergency purchase of Animal Control trucks. Commissioner Gordon made reference to the first attachment and #27 on page 4 of 4, Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools, and said that Carrboro High School addition should be included in here; she noted that the addition includes an auditorium. She said that#32 should read, "Southern Human Services Dental Clinic/Additional Space for Health Department." Regarding #18 and the Renovation of Link Government Services Center, Commissioner Gordon suggested that this be considered a reserve project as opposed to an authorized project because it is not well-defined. It will still be in the budget. Laura Blackmon said that staff is in the process of working with the architect to develop the plan and she is not sure what putting this in a reserve would do. Chair Jacobs said that a lot of the items are for future discussion and the Board agreed that in the fall, it would revisit the CIP. Hopefully, by the time the Board revisits these projects, there will be more specific information on some of these projects. Laura Blackmon said that the purpose of this item was to approve the ordinances, and the rest is backup material that the County Commissioners requested. Commissioner Gordon just wants to make sure that her concerns are noted. Commissioner Gordon made reference to the Elementary School #11 project funds and said that the County needs to be clear with the two school systems about exactly what must be done to request projects. In the notebook dated September 20, 2007, there were a number of projects brought forth by both school systems, and Elementary#11 was flagged for funding. It seems that it is appropriate to consider how to fund the planning money, which is $640,130 for fiscal year 2008. She hopes that the Board will give direction to the staff tonight because this has been unfunded and on the list for a long time. She would like to see the Board direct staff to work with CHCCS in getting the $640,130 planning money in the 2008 budget and direct staff to work out a funding plan for Elementary#11 that will be included in the documents. Donna Coffey said that, as CHCCS indicated on April 22nd, the timeline for the school is not as pressing as it was and it is looking at opening Elementary#11 a year later. There is more time to work on a funding plan. The staff can bring back a plan at the first meeting in August. Chair Jacobs suggested that the Board approve the County's capital requests and the OCS capital requests and defer the CHCCS requests, until the Board of Education members and the other County Commissioners can be present to discuss this request; direct staff to try and find planning money within the monies that have already been requested by CHCCS. There is no place to find $640,130 and the fact that the County Commissioners got a CIP that did not include this is very perplexing. He said that it ought to have been part of the CIP. He wants all five County Commissioners and the school board members to be present when this is discussed again. Commissioner Foushee said that she thought that the staff would be bringing back more concrete numbers in August and this will keep CHCCS on the planning track. She agrees with this direction. Commissioner Gordon said that she asked Donna Coffey about the amount of the lottery proceeds. This year, CHCCS got $988,000 and the County Commissioners said that it could spend $624,000 on space for classrooms for Phoenix Academy and some other things. In the fourth quarter, OCS is expected to get $200,000 and CHCCS $325,000. She wants to get the lottery proceeds as soon as possible, just in case there is any movement to sequester the proceeds by the State. She suggested approving capital project ordinances for all of the projects and then go back and get more specific information. She would like to encourage both school systems to think of projects that budget all lottery proceeds and get them as soon as possible from the legislature. A motion was made by Commissioner Gordon, seconded by Commissioner Foushee to approve the capital project ordinances as written and tell the school systems that the County has received their information and discuss how the projects are funded. Chair Jacobs said that he is going to vote against this because he wants to know where the money is coming from before he commits to fully funding the capital improvement plan for the CHCCS system that has a $640,000 request hanging out there. VOTE: Ayes, 2; No, 1 (Chair Jacobs) i. Proposed Grant Application for Smart Growth Implementation Assistance The Board considered submitting an application to the Development, Community, and Environment Division in the U.S. EPA's Office of Policy Economics and Innovation for implementation assistance related to smart growth in the Efland area and authorizing the Chair to sign prior the May 8, 2008 deadline. Chair Jacobs asked what would be different about the application in 2008 that will make it superior to the one in 2007 that was not funded. Planning Director Craig Benedict said that there will be an emphasis on redevelopment and vacant buildings, and there will also be a stronger emphasis on workforce housing. A motion was made by Chair Jacobs, seconded by Commissioner Foushee to approve submittal of an application for the Smart Growth Implementation Assistance program and authorize the Chair to sign the application for submittal prior to the May 8, 2008 deadline. In item 5-a below, Chair Jacobs requested that the Northern Buckhorn/Central Efland Sewer Expansion be incorporated into the grant proposal. Legal Advertisement for Quarterly Public Hearing — May 19, 2008 The Board considered the legal advertisement for items to be presented at the Board of County Commissioners/Planning Board Quarterly Public Hearing scheduled for May 19, 2008. Commissioner Gordon made reference to page 7, Zoning Ordinance Amendment, and said that language should be included about what it is now and how it is changing. Craig Benedict said that he would add more specific language. A motion was made by Commissioner Gordon, seconded by Commissioner Foushee to approve the proposed May 19, 2008 Quarterly Public Hearing legal advertisement, with the additional language as requested above. VOTE: UNANIMOUS Geof Gledhill said that this relates solely to government projects. A motion was made by Commissioner Foushee, seconded by Commissioner Gordon to reconsider the motion. Geof Gledhill said that the advertisement will include the amendment that is being proposed. A motion was made by Commissioner Foushee, seconded by Commissioner Gordon to approve the proposed May 19, 2008 Quarterly Public Hearing legal advertisement as amended above. VOTE: UNANIMOUS k. Schools Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance (SAPFO) — Review of Annual Technical Advisory Committee Report The Board received for review the 2008 Annual Report of the SAPFO Technical Advisory Committee and considered referring it to the SAPFO partners for comments before certification in June. Commissioner Gordon said that she sent an email to Craig Benedict stating questions about this document. She wants some information about the text and numbers because there appears to be some inconsistencies in the report. Craig Benedict said that he researched the questions and 57 is the increase for OCS middle school, and not 61. This will be corrected before documents are sent. He said that 2,533 is the capacity of the Orange County high school level, and this includes Orange High School at 1,518; Cedar Ridge High School at 1,000; and 15 as part of the partnership school. Also, the chart did say that the CHCCS high school expansion was scheduled for 2015-2016 and in another part of the abstract it said 2016-2017. He will confirm this with Donna Coffey. A motion was made by Commissioner Gordon, seconded by Commissioner Foushee to forward the corrected report to the SAPFO partners for review and comment before June certification. VOTE: UNANIMOUS I. Swallow's Ridge — Preliminary Plan The Board received a recreation trail map from the developer concerning the Preliminary Plan for Swallow's Ridge and considered a decision on subdivision application. Craig Benedict said that this item was on the agenda a few weeks ago and there was some discussion about the length of the trail that would be supportive of the private recreation on the site. The applicant met with staff the next day, and they agreed upon a 6,000+ linear foot trail with a corridor width that would be approximately 42,800 square feet. This language is acceptable to the applicant and this is a reasonable accommodation to the condition of approval and the resolution, section E4. A motion was made by Commissioner Foushee, seconded by Commissioner Gordon to approve the preliminary plan for Swallow's Ridge, with the language for section E4 that, "the developer has agreed to and will provide a minimum of approximately 42,798.5 square feet of private recreation area." VOTE: UNANIMOUS 5. Public Hearings a. Authorization of Northern Buckhorn Community/Central Efland Sewer Expansion Project and Conclusion of the Public Hearing for Preliminary Engineer's Report The Board will be completing the EPA-required (for State and Tribal Assistance Grant funded projects) public hearing on the proposed project's preliminary Engineer's Report; considered approving the project scope; and addressed the project's projected shortfall in existing bond and grant funds. Chair Jacobs said that there are some changes since last time related to a pump station. Laura Blackmon said that the public hearing for this item was on the last agenda and was not closed. There is more clarification on the pump station. County Engineer Paul Thames said that a letter has been received from OWASA saying that, as far as their system is concerned, the lifespan of the mechanical and electrical equipment of a pump station is approximately 15 years. All of the County's equipment is 20 years old, so it has not been operating at capacity. There were plans to replace this system in the CIP in two years, which overlaps this project and could achieve some economy of scale savings. The new system would have the capacity flow of about 100,000 gallons per day. The current system flows at about 30,000 gallons a day. The new system would take care of everything that is existing in the proposed service area. Commissioner Gordon made reference to item #31 on the County CIP, which says that out of the $4.9 million project, the County has spent $2.2 million, and the available funding as of October 31, 2007 is $2,663,162. Other documentation says that $2.5 million is left. She asked for clarification on this. Paul Thames said that the $100,000 is eaten up by administrative fees paid to the North Carolina Construction Loans and Grants section. Commissioner Gordon asked more clarifying questions about the funding, which were answered by Laura Blackmon. Chair Jacobs suggested changing the recommendation to include this sewer project in the grant application for smart growth because it is replacing failing systems. He read his suggested recommendation: "The Manager recommends that the Board approve funding of the entire Northern Buckhorn Community and central Efland sewer project, as well as the upgrades to the McGowan Creek pumping station, with funding shortfalls, not covered by grants, to be financed by funds advanced against FY 2010-11 alternative financing." PUBLIC COMMENT: Aubrey Graham asked if this means that the procedure would start immediately. Chair Jacobs said that it still has to be reviewed by other entities before starting. County Engineer Paul Thames said that there are several review processes, but bids will be accepted about this time next year. The EPA will have to go through the bids, as will the Attorney and the Engineers to make sure that everything is kosher. From then on, it is a 1 %2 to 2-year process. Commissioner Foushee recommended that Mr. Graham get a copy of the abstract, because it has a lot of information. A motion was made by Commissioner Gordon, seconded by Commissioner Foushee to close the public hearing. A motion was made by Commissioner Foushee, seconded by Commissioner Gordon to approve funding of the entire Northern Buckhorn Community and central Efland sewer project, as well as the upgrades to the McGowan Creek pumping station, with funding shortfalls, not covered by grants, to be financed by funds advanced against FY 2010-11 alternative financing. VOTE: UNANIMOUS 6. Regular Agenda a. Summer Day Camp Proposal The Board considered appropriating $10,000 from the Department of Social Services Childcare Program to fund sponsorships for certain summer day camp programs in lieu of continuing the County's summer day camp program. Laura Blackmon said that at the last Board meeting she brought forth the proposal for the summer day camp of appropriating $10,000 for camperships for qualifying summer day camp participants in lieu of the County's summer day camp, with the proposal that the funds be used for three camps —4-H, Triangle Sportsplex, and Orange County Schools. The Social Services Board would have to approve the $10,000 that it has in surplus this year in childcare subsidy. There is a letter in the packet from the Recreation and Parks Advisory Council regarding this. The staff is asking for approval to move forward with the camperships. The Department of Social Services will qualify individuals with a sliding scale and a first-come, first served basis. Should the Board decide to reinstitute the summer camp next year, there are no funds budgeted. PUBLIC COMMENT Steve Peck, Chair of the RPAC, said that the RPAC is unanimous in its opposition to discontinuing the summer camp. There was a letter sent in February and the RPAC came and spoke to the Board in March. He said that the RPAC is really dismayed about this and realizes that it is too late to backup on this year. He appreciates the consideration of scholarship money. The RPAC would strongly recommend this program going back in next year. He said that many of the members of RPAC, past and present, actually attended this camp or were counselors. He said that the RPAC members were not asked what they thought about this very much, and when the opinions were voiced, nothing came back to explain the rationale. Regarding financial implications, the camp had a $3,600 shortfall, and this could have been made up in many ways. He hopes that the Board will reinstate the camp in the new fiscal year. Commissioner Gordon made reference to the rationale and said that one of the things that has been cited by the Manager is that the program costs the County money. She asked if this was the only rationale. Laura Blackmon said that the financial reasons were not why she was looking at discontinuing the camp. Part of the reason is that as the County grows, as the Lands Legacy Program continues to add property to the County, and as parks are developed, she recognized that parks are becoming a greater portion of what this department can focus on. The staff cannot spread themselves too thin and she wants to focus on things that provide to the entire County. There are other summer camps and after-school programs in the County. The goal was to not duplicate what is already available, but to focus on more of what the County direction has been. Commissioner Gordon said that when the decision was made, it was in the rush of the budget process, and if there was ever a vote to discontinue, it was in an overall vote to approve the budget. She thinks that it is good that everyone has now heard the rationale. Commissioner Foushee said that, given that the Board has approval from the Social Services Board to use the $10,000 to provide subsidies for children to attend other camps, she would like to monitor this new situation and see how it affects children who are not able to attend a camp and reconsider if this is something that reflects the County's goals. Chair Jacobs agreed. Chair Jacobs said that he appreciates the RPAC's concerns. He thinks that the County is going to move toward engaging RPAC and staff in more strategic thinking about the future with Parks and Recreation. He said that if the County is going to consider eliminating tax increases, then programs will have to be eliminated and this is just the tip of the iceberg. There is a limit to what the County can fund. He agrees with looking at places where services are duplicated. He is concerned about the proposed continued growth of exercise facilities at one of the senior centers when there are people in the private sector who provide exercise facilities. A motion was made by Commissioner Gordon, seconded by Commissioner Foushee to approve the proposal and the designation of $10,000 from the Department of Social Services Childcare Program to fund an Orange County scholarship/campership program to support participants' attendance at the three summer day camp programs noted above. Also, the Board will monitor the effect of this action and revisit this in the fall to see if goals are being met. VOTE: UNANIMOUS Steve Peck asked for a written response about the rationale, and Chair Jacobs said that he could have the minutes when they are available. b. Naming of County Owned Buildings and Facilities Policy The Board considered reviewing and discussing the Naming of County Owned Buildings and Facilities Policy originally adopted by the BOCC on February 21, 1989 and revised on November 9, 2005, and providing feedback to staff on any proposed changes. Laura Blackmon said that there are quite a few new buildings coming online next year— the Tweeter Building, an office building, the Orange senior center, etc. — and she wanted to make sure that the Board was comfortable with the policy that was developed in 1989 and revised in 2005. Chair Jacobs said that, whatever is done, he would like to disseminate it to all advisory boards and highlight that the naming of any facility is ultimately in the sole discretion of the Board of County Commissioners. He thinks that a mixed message has been sent to some advisory boards. Laura Blackmon said that there are also some complications because some buildings need to keep certain names because of the services offered there. For example, the Link Center is also the Government Services Center. Commissioner Gordon said that for general buildings with County services, her preference would be to name the building as such, as opposed to naming it for a person. Chair Jacobs suggested for#1 adding at the end, "Naming buildings and facilities is at the sole discretion of the Board of County Commissioners." Laura Blackmon said that she would refine the policy somewhat. 7. Reports-NONE 8. Board Comments Commissioner Foushee reminded everyone that it is Safe Kids Week. She and Commissioner Carey attended the kickoff for this event yesterday. She said that tomorrow from 3:30 —6:00 p.m. is the dedication for the Orange County Campus of Durham Technical Community College. Commissioner Gordon said that the Intergovernmental Parks Work Group met recently, and one of the major things discussed was guidelines for siting recreational facilities at schools. The principles will be forwarded to all bodies involved for feedback. Commissioner Gordon said that the Transportation Advisory Committee and Triangle Transit are looking forward to the report of the Special Transit Advisory Commission (STAC). The last STAC meeting was on April 25th and the report will be distributed soon. The report provides a fresh look at transit in the Triangle and has recommendations for all jurisdictions to adopt. Commissioner Gordon said that the Environment Steering Committee that she is on for NCACC gave a briefing on new air quality standards. A lot of areas have conformed to the air quality standards, but a lot of counties are on threshold. Commissioner Gordon said that after May 61h, she would like to see a report on what the media effort ended up being and what was done regarding the Land Transfer Tax. Chair Jacobs congratulated Cindy Rigsbee from Gravelly Hill Middle School, who is the North Carolina Teacher of the Year. Chair Jacobs said that he spoke with the Manager of Chatham County today and the agenda includes approving a resolution supporting a Value-Added Processing Center for agriculture. He has a meeting tomorrow with Senator Kinnaird and Representative Faison to see if the two bills that were introduced in the last legislative session can be passed so that there can be funding. Chair Jacobs noted that, after the primary election, the chances are excellent that for the first time in history, the majority of the Board of County Commissioners will be women. 9. County Manager's Report Laura Blackmon said that she and Donna Coffey would be meeting on Monday morning with Durham Technical Community College on the budget. A new Economic Development Director has been hired and will start May 191h. Also, the Health Department is completing site visits as part of accreditation program. Commissioner Gordon said that, now that there is a new Emergency Services Director, she would like the ES Department to work with other departments in the County to try and make sure that the addressing system in the County is such that the ES can actually find people's homes. There are several neighborhoods with strange numbering systems and that interferes with the prompt provision of emergency services. Laura Blackmon said that staff is looking at some upgrades to help with this. 10. Appointments a. Chapel Hill Planning Board — New Appointment The Board considered making a new appointment to the Chapel Hill Planning Board. A motion was made by Chair Jacobs, seconded by Commissioner Foushee to appoint Robert Campbell to the ETJ seat, expiring June 30, 2009. VOTE: UNANIMOUS b. Information Technology Advisory Committee — New Appointments The Board considered making three new appointments to the Information Technology Advisory Committee. A motion was made by Commissioner Foushee, seconded by Commissioner Gordon to appoint Susan Korn and James Walker to full terms expiring December 31, 2011; and Daniel Oakley to a partial term expiring December 31, 2010 to the Information Technology Advisory Committee. VOTE: UNANIMOUS c. Workforce Development Board-Regional Partnership — New Appointment The Board considered making a new appointment to the Workforce Development Board-Regional Partnership. A motion was made by Commissioner Gordon, seconded by Commissioner Foushee to appoint Patrick Rhodes to a partial term expiring June 30, 2009 to the Workforce Development Board-Regional Partnership. VOTE: UNANIMOUS Chair Jacobs pointed out that the County does not communicate with the JPA, ETJ, or Northern Transition Area board members, so he does not know how they are representing the County's interests on these boards. He has suggested to the Manager that they get invited to the Land Use Plan Update Public Hearing and meetings about the Land Use Plan so that they understand Orange County's perspective. 11. Information Items • Memorandum from Animal Services Director Regarding Nuisance Ordinance —Animal Noises • Memorandum from Commission for the Environment Regarding City of Burlington Biosolids Permit Renewal Chair Jacobs said that he saw that the Commission for the Environment is asking for another public hearing in Orange County. Short of that, he thinks that it might be useful to have someone from Environmental Health or the Health Department. He said that Burlington is #6 in the State in the amount of sludge that is dumped. Geof Gledhill said that the County's zoning ordinance prohibits biosolid applications in water quality critical areas. He said that, because of this, someone on behalf of Orange County should react to the permitting before the State process each time one of these sites comes up for a permit again. Chair Jacobs suggested that the Manager talk with the Attorney and David Stancil and try to develop a strategy. 12. Closed Session-NONE 13. Adjournment A motion was made by Commissioner Gordon, seconded by Commissioner Foushee to adjourn the meeting at 9:47 p.m. VOTE: UNANIMOUS Barry Jacobs, Chair Donna S. Baker, CMC Clerk to the Board Orange County water supply reservoir water levels Available information as of 1:00 PM, Thursday, April 24, 2008 Lake Orange • Water level remains at full, spilling slightly. The Eno Capacity Use restrictions have been in abeyance since midnight April 61h • Water storage capacity is at 100% (475 million gallons) • Approximately 141 days of water supply remaining (at Capacity Use specified release rate). In accordance with provisions of the County's Water Conservation Ordinance and light of the increased water level in Lake Orange, the BOCC may elect to curtail the County's Water Conservation Ordinance Stage I Voluntary provisions for individual water users, or, given the ongoing drought, may also elect to keep Water Conservation Ordinance voluntary provisions in force. • The Hillsborough gage indicates that the latest Eno River flows are at approximately 16 cfs (approximately 10.4 mgd). This flow represents a level that is much lower than the historical median flow levels (60 cfs) for this time of year. • Orange Alamance continues to operate its water plant with average withdrawals of 300,000 gallons per day, each Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. West Fork Reservoir (as of 4/18/2008 [last available update') • Water level is 17" below spilling • Water storage capacity remaining is 94.9% • Approximately 374 days of water supply remaining (assuming Town's current release rate (2.2 cfs, 1. 42 mgd). • The Town is currently releasing its minimum required instream flow release (2.2 cfs). • The Hillsborough Town Board lifted voluntary water use restrictions on Monday, April 14, 2008. OWASA Reservoirs • Water level at Cane Creek Reservoir is 6'-11" below full • Water level at University Lake is 0' — 1.5" below full • Total remaining water storage capacity is approximately 72.4 % • Approximately 440 days of water supply remain (at the current 30-day average daily demand [6.4 million gallons per day]) • At the OWASA Board of Directors meeting on April 10, 2008, the OWASA Board declared a Stage One Water Shortage effective April 11, 2008 (rescinding the February 28th Stage Three declaration). National Weather Service/NOAA Regional Precipitation data (through 4/23/2008) (inches above [+] or below [-] normal) RDU Piedmont-Triad -0.05" since April 1, 2008 +1.28" since Aprill, 2008 -8.86" since January 1, 2007 -12.97" since January 1, 2007 -1.62" since January 1, 2008 -1.30" since January 1, 2008 Miscellaneous notes The NC Drought Management Advisory Council drought map, last updated April 22, 2008, indicates that the northern 2/3's of Orange County lies within the area characterized as experiencing "moderate drought" (the second severity level of their rating system), while the southern 1/3 of the County remains in the area characterized as experiencing "severe drought" (the third severity level of their rating system).