Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - 20020416APPROVED 6/18/02 MINUTES ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING April 16, 2002 The Orange County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, April 16, 2002 at 7:30 p.m. at the Southern Human Services Center in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. COUNTY COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Chair Barry Jacobs and Commissioners Margaret W. Brown, Moses Carey, Jr., Alice M. Gordon and Stephen Halkiotis COUNTY ATTORNEY PRESENT: Geoffrey Gledhill and S. Sean Borhanian COUNTY STAFF PRESENT: County Manager John M. Link, Jr., Assistant County Manager Rod Visser and Clerk to the Board Beverly A. Blythe (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 There is a revised resolution for item 5-d, an added resolution (item 5-f), a revised resolution for item 7-c, and a revised abstract for item 9-e. Commissioner Jacobs mentioned that Frances Hargraves died earlier today and asked that the meeting be started by observing a moment of silence, both in memory and in appreciation for the privilege of living in a community in which she lived and in which she served. PUBLIC CHARGE Chair Jacobs read the public charge. 2. CITIZEN & AUDIENCE COMMENTS a. Matters not on the Printed Agenda -NONE b. Matters on the Printed Agenda (These matters were considered as the Board addressed the items on the agenda below.) 3. BOARD COMMENTS Commissioner Gordon announced that the Transportation Advisory Committee at its last meeting moved into the third phase of the 2025 Transportation Plan Update. They endorsed the four alternatives that the staff recommended plus one other as recommended by the Town of Chapel Hill. She brought some maps that outlined the decisions. Karen Lincoln also prepared a summary of the meeting. Commissioner Gordon said that the North Carolina Department of Transportation (DOT) has established an Environmental Planning and Policy Committee. This is a positive development. This committee will guide the incorporation of environmental stewardship in the day to day operations of the DOT. Commissioner Gordon made reference to the Schools Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance and memorandum of understanding. She urged the staff to contact the superintendents in order to certify the membership figures and the capacity numbers. Commissioner Carey shared comments about Frances Hargraves and said that she will be missed by all of us. Commissioner Carey said that the Secretary of the department that oversees the Criminal Justice Partnership Program has sent out a memo informing all the counties that he is not going to recommend funding for next year and this will be a great loss. Commissioner Carey said that he will contact the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners to see what can be done to get these funds. Chair Jacobs said that the Assembly of Governments agenda for the April 29th meeting will be distributed as soon as all the comments have been received from the mayors. The first item on the agenda will be to review the budget situations and to try and share some concrete examples on how this is having an effect on the local governments in Orange County. We hope to invite our legislators so they can hear this. Chair Jacobs reported on a meeting with the Rogers Road neighborhood on April 8th. They talked about the grant program that the County has put in place to allow people to hook up to the water line. There was a good turnout and a free discussion. There were some issues raised that will require the County Commissioners' attention. The County staff and OWASA staff answered all the questions very well. There will be a sign-up session on a Saturday afternoon so that it is easier for people in the community to sign up or receive information. Chair Jacobs said that he attended the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority's debutante ball on behalf of the County Commissioners. This was a nice event and he was privileged to represent the Board of County Commissioners. Also, The County Manager, Vice-Chair, and he met with the Chair of the OWASA Board Bernadette Pelissier and OWASA Director Ed Kerwin to talk about possibly collaborating on some of the water issues in central Orange County and OWASA's continued interest in protecting the water supply in an event of an accident at Shearon Harris. They also talked about OWASA's proposed ordinance for water restrictions should they become necessary. OWASA said that the water levels at Cane Creek are low and they are already down to a 220-day water supply. When it gets down to 125 days, that is when mandatory conservation kicks in. 4. COUNTY MANAGER'S REPORT John Link said that on April 22nd there would be a budget work session with the primary discussion on the Capital Investment Plan. At that time, the County Commissioners will receive an update on revenues and what cuts may be expected at the State level that may have an impact on County funds Commissioner Carey commented that he would be out of town on April 22nd and also on May 8th. 5. RESOLUTIONS/PROCLAMATIONS a. Frances Neal Hargraves Day Proclamation The Board considered a proclamation declaring April 14, 2002 as Frances Neal Hargraves Day in Orange County. Ms. Hargraves passed away this morning. This proclamation was shared with Ms. Hargraves on Sunday. Commissioner Carey read the resolution. A motion was made by Commissioner Brown, seconded by Commissioner Halkiotis to approve and authorize the Chair to sign the resolution as stated below: PROCLAMATION ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS FRANCES NEAL HARGRAVES DAY WHEREAS, Frances Neal Hargraves is a life-long resident of Chapel Hill and Southern Orange County, with her family home place located on West Franklin Street where the McDonald's now stands; and WHEREAS, Frances Neal Hargraves is a member of Saint Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church and taught Sunday School starting at age ten and continuing for sixty years; and WHEREAS, Frances Neal Hargraves was educated at Winston-Salem State University, with a B.S. Degree in Education, and later did graduate work at North Carolina Central University, Syracuse University, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; and WHEREAS, Frances Neal Hargraves taught for 30 years in the Chapel Hill-Carrboro City School System, 10 years in elementary grades 4-6 and 20 years in special education; and WHEREAS, Frances Neal Hargraves is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, the Chapel Hill Women's Club, Women of Distinction, the American Association of University Women, the Chapel Hill- Carrboro League of Women Voters, and many other organizations; and WHEREAS, Frances Neal Hargraves is active in the Chapel Hill Preservation Society, Orange County Mental Health Association, Orange County Women's Center, Friends of Chapel Hill Library, Friends of Carrboro Library, Northside Neighborhood Association, Golden Age Happy Circle, Chapel Hill Senior Center, the Girl Scouts, Chapel Hill Museum, Meals on Wheels, the Retired Senior Volunteers Program, and many other activities -truly an exemplar of volunteerism and public service; and WHEREAS, Frances Neal Hargraves is a familiar sight -walking all over the Town of Chapel Hill early in the morning, and at one point walking eighteen miles a week; and WHEREAS, Frances Neal Hargraves participated in the Senior Olympics from 1988 through 2001, winning and setting records in 1500 meters and 5000 meters walk race and other competitions; and WHEREAS, Frances Neal Hargraves's philosophy has been "to hold onto my Maker and friends and to have a sense of humor"; NOW, THEREFORE, do we, the Orange County Board of Commissioners, hereby proclaim April 14, 2002 as FRANCES NEAL HARGRAVES DAY in Orange County and commend this observance to all our citizens. THIS, THE 16T" DAY OF APRIL 2002. VOTE: UNANIMOUS b. Resolution of Appreciation for Bob Strayhorn The Board considered a resolution of appreciation recognizing Bob Strayhorn's dedication to the citizens of Orange County. Chair Jacobs read this resolution. A motion was made by Commissioner Gordon, seconded by Commissioner Halkiotis to approve and authorize the Chair to sign the resolution as stated below: RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION FOR BOB STRAYHORN WHEREAS, for more than 50 years, Bob Strayhorn has been a farmer and land owner in Orange County; and WHEREAS, for over 30 years, Mr. Strayhorn has given of his time and energy as a dedicated servant to the citizens of Orange County through his volunteer work in County government and community groups; and WHEREAS, Mr. Strayhorn has served as a member of the County's Agricultural Preservation Board since 1994, including service as the Board vice-chair; and WHEREAS, Mr. Strayhorn served on the County's first Planning Board in the late 1960's/early 1970's, and also recently completed two consecutive terms as a member of the Planning Board; and WHEREAS, Mr. Strayhorn served on the first Recreation and Parks Advisory Council created in February 1979, and was one of the first recipients of the Recreation and Parks Advisory Council's Volunteer Service Award in November 1999; and WHEREAS, Mr. Strayhorn served on the Master Plan Advisory Group that developed the Master Recreation and Parks Plan adopted July 1988, and also served on the Rural Character Study Committee during the late 1980's and early 1990's; and WHEREAS, for over 20 years, Mr. Strayhorn has allowed the Recreation and Parks Departments of Orange County and Carrboro the use of his large farm pond for the annual countywide "Youth Fishing Rodeo," which attracts more than 350 youth and adults each year; and WHEREAS, Mr. Strayhorn has participated in every Orange County 4-H Livestock Show in its 56-year history; and WHEREAS, in 1998 Mr. Strayhorn enrolled his farms in Chapel Hill and Little River Townships in the County's Voluntary Agricultural District program, contributing the largest acreage of the program's participating farms; and WHEREAS, Mr. Strayhorn assisted the County in its recent acquisition of the Blackwood property for the preservation of land for a future park; and WHEREAS, Mr. Strayhorn has not been one to shy away from political discourse where he expressed his opinions while at the same time working with others to address differences and ultimately achieve the best conclusions for all of Orange County; and WHEREAS, through his selfless devotion to Orange County's volunteer boards and commissions, Bob Strayhorn has distinguished himself as a true public steward and an example to all the citizens of Orange County; NOW THEREFORE, do we, the Orange County Board of Commissioners, hereby express our appreciation to Bob Strayhorn for his dedication to Orange County and for his service to the Agricultural Preservation Board, the Orange County Planning Board, the Recreation and Parks Advisory Council, and in numerous other capacities; FURTHERMORE, we express our appreciation for the contributions that he, in conjunction with his wife Helen Strayhorn, have made to the quality of life in Orange County. This, the 16th day of April 2002. VOTE: UNANIMOUS A motion was made by Commissioner Halkiotis, seconded by Commissioner Carey to send Commissioner Brown to take on the Orange County 4-H Livestock Show. VOTE: UNANIMOUS c. National Tourism Week Proclamation The Board considered a proclamation recognizing May 4-12 as National Tourism Week. Commissioner Gordon read the proclamation. A motion was made by Commissioner Gordon, seconded by Commissioner Carey to approve and authorize the Chair to sign this proclamation as stated below: NATIONAL TOURISM WEEK PROCLAMATION May 4 - 12, 2002 WHEREAS, the travel and tourism industry supports the vital interests of Orange County, contributing to our employment, economic prosperity, understanding, and goodwill; and WHEREAS, total domestic tourism in Orange County generates an economic impact of more than $108 million, ranking the county 21 out of 100 counties; and WHEREAS, state and local tax revenues from travel to Orange County amounted to $8.77 million, representing a $74 tax saving to each county resident; and WHEREAS, more than 1,700 jobs in Orange County were directly attributable to travel and tourism; and WHEREAS, travel generated a $25.4 million payroll in 2000; and WHEREAS, our area attractions, welcome centers and tours hosted more than 1.1 million visitors last year, up four percent from the previous year; and WHEREAS, as people throughout the county, state, country and world become more aware of the outstanding cultural, historical, and recreational resources available in Orange County, travel and tourism will become an increasingly important aspect in the lives of our citizens; and WHEREAS, given these laudable contributions to the economic, social, and cultural well being of the citizens of Orange County, it is fitting that we recognize the efforts of the Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau and the importance of travel and tourism; NOW THEREFORE, we, the Orange County Board of Commissioners, do hereby proclaim May 4 - 12, 2002 as NATIONAL TOURISM WEEK in Orange County, and we recognize that Tourism Works in Orange County. This, the 16t" day of April 2002. VOTE: UNANIMOUS d. Proclamation Recognizing Armenian Martyrs Day and Similar Atrocities The Board considered a proclamation recognizing and remembering Armenian Martyrs Day as well as millions of others who perished in similar genocides during the 20t" Century. Commissioner Halkiotis read the proclamation. A motion was made by Commissioner Halkiotis, seconded by Commissioner Gordon to approve and authorize the Chair to sign the proclamation as stated below: A PROCLAMATION for ARMENIAN MARTYRS DAY IN REMEMBRANCE OF ATROCITIES OF THE 20t" CENTURY WHEREAS, between 1915-1923, the extermination of more than one and one-half million Armenians and the deportation of countless other Armenians took place by the Ottoman Turks; and WHEREAS, during this atrocity, Armenians were forced to witness the slaughter of their relatives and the loss of their ancestral homelands; and WHEREAS, Armenians assert that the government of modern-day Turkey refuses to recognize the facts of genocide; and WHERAS, the denial of the Armenian genocide by the present day Turkish government serves to taint the history and disavows Armenians of the right to their homelands and heritage; and WHERAS, ancestral Armenian lands taken by the Ottoman Turks have not been returned to the Armenian people, nor have the Armenians received compensation for their losses; and WHERAS, Armenians traditionally designated April 24th as ARMENIAN MARTYRS DAY, in recognition and remembrance of those who died during the Armenian genocide; and WHERAS, Orange County finds it equally important to remember the atrocities committed against others in the name or religious, racial and ethnic cleansing so that we do not forget the inevitable outcome of our daily intolerances; and WHERAS, it is important to remember history so that mistakes of the past are not repeated for future generations; NOW, THEREFORE, do we, the Commissioners of Orange County, proclaim April 24th, 2002 as Armenian Martyrs Day and commend this observance to all Orange County citizens in remembrance of the atrocities of the 20th century. THIS, THE 16T" DAY OF APRIL 2002. VOTE: UNANIMOUS e. Resolution to Extend the Bargaining Period for Disposition of the Greene Tract The Board considered a resolution extending the bargaining period for Orange County and the towns of Carrboro and Chapel Hill to resolve the disposition of the remaining 109 acres of the Greene Tract. John Link said that they only need another 60 days to be able to accomplish the total mission. Commissioner Brown said that the work group was trying to understand how a sewer line would be extended. They are waiting for an elevation survey that would show how a sewer line could be extended to the property. If a sewer line could not be extended, then affordable housing could not go in this area. A motion was made by Commissioner Carey, seconded by Commissioner Brown to approve and authorize the Chair to sign the resolution as stated on page two of the abstract and as stated below, which extends the bargaining period for 60 days for disposition of the Greene Tract that remains in joint ownership. A RESOLUTION APPROVING A 60-DAY EXTENSION OF THE BARGAINING PERIOD FOR DISPOSITION OF THE PORTION OF THE GREENE TRACT THAT REMAINS IN JOINT OWNERSHIP WHEREAS, Orange County and the Towns of Carrboro and Chapel Hill acquired the property known as the Greene Tract in 1984 as an asset of the joint solid waste management system; and WHEREAS, title to 60 acres of this property was deeded exclusively to Orange County in 2000 under provisions of the 1999 interlocal "Agreement for Solid Waste Management"; and WHEREAS, under the same interlocal agreement the County and Towns agreed to bargain in good faith during the two-year period following the effective date of the agreement to determine the ultimate use or disposition of the balance of the acreage on the Greene Tract; and WHEREAS, the end date of the "bargaining period" as defined in the agreement is April 17, 2002, the second anniversary of the date upon which the County assumed overall responsibility for solid waste management in Orange County; and WHEREAS, the governing boards of all three jurisdictions approved resolutions in November or December 2001 that outlined their interests for programming basic uses of the balance of the Greene Tract; and WHEREAS, the Work Group was charged to develop a more detailed written and graphic concept plan for the use of the remaining 109 acres for presentation to each board by March 2002; and WHEREAS, the Work Group has transmitted a resolution to all three governing boards that provides a progress report and that indicates that they have reached substantial agreement on a concept plan as outlined on the accompanying map (Straw Proposal Concept Plan 4); and WHEREAS, the Work Group resolution indicates that they have not yet reached agreement regarding what designation should be placed on the approximately 11 acres shown in blue on Concept Plan 4 and would like a 60-day extension of the bargaining period to try to reach consensus; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Orange County Board of Commissioners does hereby approve a 60-day extension of the bargaining period to permit further Work Group effort to finalize a recommended concept plan for subsequent approval by each governing board. This, the 16th day of April 2002. VOTE: UNANIMOUS f. Resolution Endorsing and Agreeing to Sponsor and Host a Water Summit The Board considered a resolution endorsing and agreeing to sponsor and host a Water Summit on May 16, 2002 from 4:00 - 8:00 p.m. at the Southern Human Services Center in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Commissioner Gordon added some language to this as follows: Between the 5th and 6tn "Whereas," - "Whereas, Orange County has sponsored in cooperation with the U. S. Geological Survey, two studies of groundwater resources in Orange County." Also, in the last "Whereas" - "Whereas, Orange County finds it desirable and necessary that all water utilities and otherinterested parties, serving the citizens of the County have an opportunity to meet and discuss issues of mutual concern and benefit, including both surface water and groundwater resources." Also, in the "Now, Therefore" section, she added "and other interested parties" before "and to direct staff..." A motion was made by Commissioner Gordon, seconded by Commissioner Brown to approve the resolution and authorize the Chair to sign the resolution as amended and as stated below: A RESOLUTION ENDORSING AND AGREEING TO SPONSOR AND HOST A WATER SUMMIT WHEREAS, Orange County, in discharging its statutory responsibilities to protect and enhance the public health, safety, and welfare of all the citizens of Orange County, does have a strong interest in assuring the availability of high quality sources of potable water; and WHEREAS, Orange County owns and operates Lake Orange, a water supply reservoir that serves as a primary water supply for the Town of Hillsborough and the Orange-Alamance Water System; and WHEREAS, Orange County coordinates the use of water supplies drawn from the Eno River under the provision of the Eno River Capacity Use Agreement; and WHEREAS, Orange County has no pecuniary interest in the sale or transfer of treated or raw water supplies within the County or elsewhere; and WHEREAS, Orange County's geographic location in the upper reaches of a number of water supply watersheds and in fractured rock geology severely limits the quantity of water available for drinking water supplies derived from either surface water and ground water sources; and WHEREAS, Orange County has sponsored in cooperation with the U. S. Geological Survey, two studies of groundwater resources in Orange County; and WHEREAS, the environmental impact and financial cost associated with the development and construction of new reservoirs renders the development of new reservoirs and water supplies within Orange County unlikely; and WHEREAS, Orange County does have an interest in making the most efficient use of limited resources; and WHEREAS, Orange County seeks to ensure that the demand for water supplies generated by population growth and development can be reconciled with availability of the resource in a smart, sustainable manner; and WHEREAS, the citizens of Orange County are provided municipal water utility services by the Town of Hillsborough, Orange Water and Sewer Authority, the City of Durham, the City of Mebane, and the Orange-Alamance Water System; and WHEREAS, the water distribution systems of the Town of Hillsborough, Orange Water and Sewer Authority, the City of Durham, the City of Mebane, and the Orange-Alamance Water System are interconnected; and WHEREAS, in time of need, treated water has been and is still transferred to, between and through the water distribution systems of the Town of Hillsborough, Orange Water and Sewer Authority, the City of Durham, the City of Mebane, and the Orange-Alamance Water System; and WHEREAS, Orange County conducts an ongoing dialogue with the Town of Hillsborough, Orange Water and Sewer Authority, the City of Durham, the City of Mebane, and the Orange-Alamance Water System about the extension of utilities to provide water utility service and fire protection for commercial enterprises, new and existing residential development, new schools and other essential public facilities; and "WHEREAS, Orange County finds it desirable and necessary that all water utilities and otherinterested parties, serving the citizens of the County have an opportunity to meet and discuss issues of mutual concern and benefit, including both surface water and groundwater resources; NOW, THEREFORE, do we, the Orange County Board of Commissioners, hereby resolve to sponsor and host a Water Summit involving all of the major water utility providers to the citizens of Orange County (the Town of Hillsborough, Orange Water and Sewer Authority, the City of Durham, the City of Mebane, and the Orange-Alamance Water System) and otherinterested parties and to direct staff to organize such a organize such a summit to be tentatively scheduled for May 16, 2002 at the Southern Human Services Building in Chapel Hill. This, the 16th day of April 2002. VOTE: UNANIMOUS 6. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS a. Support of Immigrant Workers The Board considered recognizing the role of immigrant workers as employees of local businesses and consumers of local goods and services, and to support immigration reform efforts. Economic Development Director Dianne Reid said that during the 1990's large numbers of immigrant workers moved into Orange County to take jobs -particularly in the retail, construction, and service sectors. Within the last few months, the Social Security Administration has begun to send out No Match letters, which notify employers that the social security funds that they have submitted on behalf of workers do not match anyone on file. As a result, a number of businesses have laid off immigrant workers. Alex Asbun, Executive Director of EI Centro Latino, spoke about the problems and some possible resolution. He urged the County Commissioners to call upon the U. S. Government to reform immigration laws in order to provide undocumented immigrants with legal permission to work and live here and institute along-term immigration policy that will address the economy and national security needs of the United States. Commissioner Brown read the resolution. A motion was made by Commissioner Brown, seconded by Commissioner Halkiotis to approve and authorize the Chair to sign the resolution as stated below: Resolution Supporting Orange County Immigrant Workers WHEREAS, immigrant workers are increasingly essential to filing a wide range of jobs in Orange County, North Carolina; and WHEREAS, employed undocumented workers pay federal, state, and local taxes, including Social Security and Medicare; and WHEREAS, the buying power of undocumented workers is substantial, with the buying power of Latinos in North Carolina exceeding $2.3 billion (as documented by the North Carolina Institute of Minority Economic Development, Inc.); and WHEREAS, national immigration policy is in conflict with our current workforce needs; and WHEREAS, recent changes in Social Security Administration practices have resulted in dozens of immigrants losing their jobs in Orange County and throughout the state; and WHEREAS, local governments bear the significant infrastructure and operational costs of providing services to all their residents; and WHEREAS, not providing a legal means of working and living in this country creates a black market for documents which threatens national security and the personal welfare of immigrants; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Orange County Board of Commissioners agree to: 1) Encourage County staff to work with local non-profit service organizations to establish a "safety net" for local unemployed workers and their families; 2) Co-sponsor an upcoming forum on Latinos, "EI Dilema Latino: Seeking Local Solutions," convened by the Chapel Hill News and tentatively scheduled for the evening of May 1St; and 3) Call upon the United States Government to reform immigration laws in order to provide undocumented immigrants with legal permission to work and live in our community and institute a long-term immigration policy that addresses the economic and national security needs of the United States. This, the 16th day of April 2002. VOTE: UNANIMOUS 7. PUBLIC HEARINGS a. Establishing a Durham Technical Community College Satellite Campus in Orange County The Board held a public hearing for the purpose of receiving public input on establishing a satellite campus of Durham Technical Community College in Orange County. John Link said that a task force spent a lot of time in making recommendations on the feasibility of the satellite campus. A PowerPoint presentation was made by Purchasing Director Pam Jones. A 21-member task force began work in March 2000 and presented findings to the Board of County Commissioners on November 21, 2000. The task force reported that Orange County is the largest North Carolina county (in population) without a community college campus; in 2000, over 6,500 Orange County residents attended community college somewhere in the area; DTCC is providing instruction at more than 40 locations throughout Orange County; Orange County residents comprised approximately 22% of the total DTCC enrollment in 1999; and DTCC has an ongoing partnership within both school systems. There is a gap in technical skills training that a satellite campus would address. DTCC would continue to use the current instructional locations -Skills Development Center, public schools, and others. Some of the desired classes, which were identified by focus groups, include computer, foreign languages, English as a second language, teacher certification or renewal, heavy equipment operation, biotechnology, solar energy systems, nursing, and senior legal issues. Dr. Phail Wynn, President of Durham Technical Community College, said that there has been a long-time cooperative programming over the years. The satellite campus would provide more resources for a wider array of educational programming to meet the needs of Orange County citizens. He pointed out that for the fall of 2000, over 900 students in credit programs were Orange County residents and over 1500 students in non-credit programs were Orange County residents. The needs assessment would be a very important process and the needs of Orange County would be analyzed. Community colleges do have great flexibility on the programs they provide to citizens on very short notice. The needs assessment would involve getting input from citizens and looking at economic development needs as well as employer needs. This analysis would be updated on a regular basis so they can take into account the changing needs in the community. The Durham Tech Board of Trustees is committed to serving the citizens in Orange County. The board has committed 26% of the total amount they will receive from the statewide bond issue for this satellite campus. He applauds the vision the County Commissioners have in seeing this need and moving the process forward. He said that, as they move forward, they would be looking specifically at the needs of the adults in Orange County. Pam Jones outlined the steps that will need to be taken over the next few months as listed below: Resolution to Pursue Establishment of a DTCC Satellite Campus in Orange County (May 21, 2002) Needs assessment completed by DTCC in Fall 2002 Architect selected by DTCC board of trustees in Fall 2003 • Plans complete by summer 2004 • Construction begins spring 2005 • Orange County Satellite campus of the Durham Technical Community College opens for students in fall 2006 Pam Jones said that the site selection is a critical component that must be determined. The site needs to be a minimum of 20 acres and close to public transportation. The cost of the land to the County must be considered as well as site development costs, development challenges, and cost of the facility. The site should be environmentally acceptable, near public facilities, and near businesses or business parks. They will also look at analyzing any co-location opportunities they may have with other facilities being constructed with County funds. The site will be selected by a site Selection Work Group appointed by the County Commissioners. The group could include two County Commissioners, County Manager, two representatives from DTCC living in Orange County, and a Hillsborough and Chapel Hill Chamber of Commerce representative. Some recommended staff for the work group include Director of Purchasing and Central Services, County Engineer, Economic Development Director, Planning Director, Orange County Schools representative, Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools representative, and two employer representatives. The task group will be responsible for recommending the criteria and establishing a matrix that would weigh the criteria based on the criticality. The decision will be brought back to the Board of County Commissioners no later than the spring of 2003. She outlined the financial responsibilities of Orange County and those of Durham Technical Institute. Orange County will contribute $4 million in matching funds in cash and/or property. DTCC will be responsible for ensuring that the building is constructed. DTCC will own the facility and the grounds as long as the facility remains a satellite campus. It would revert back to County ownership if it ceases to be a satellite campus. The County is also responsible for some ongoing operational costs. Examples include buildings and grounds maintenance staff, building and property security personnel, utilities, telephone service, funding capacity improvements to buildings, and vehicles for maintenance staff. DTCC would submit an annual budget to the County Manager, similar to the schools and County departments. Commissioner Carey made reference to the construction process and asked that the County Commissioners have an opportunity to review the construction plans before they go out to bid. Public Comment Allen Spalt said that as a member of the bond task force last year, he totally supports the expansion of Durham Technical Institute in Orange County. He supports the site selection process, which will set criteria for this campus. Public transportation is very important for this campus and it should be on a bus line to start with, not eventually. He said it was important that the campus be centrally located rather than being located away from population centers. No one else was signed up to speak. Commissioner Gordon asked about the Board of Trustees and if it was going to be possible for the Board of County Commissioners to have more of a role than what was described. Dr. Phail Wynn said that the Durham Tech Board of Trustees has agreed to expand the Board of Trustees to 14, which will allow two to be appointed by the Orange County Board of Commissioners. Commissioner Gordon asked how many students go to the Skills Development Center and the Northern Durham campus now per year. Dr. Phail Wynn did not know the numbers. He said that they have at their northern campus programs for criminal justice, basic law enforcement, fire protection, and environmental health and safety. If the program with the high schools were expanded, they could have a program whereby students could complete the first year of any of these programs and then travel to the northern campus to complete their second year to get an associate degree. They envision the northern Durham campus as augmenting what could be done in Orange County through the Skills Development Center as well as the new satellite campus. They envision the Skills Development Center playing a playing a primary role in work force development. Vice-President of DTCC Barbara Baker said that there are 250-300 students at the Skills Development Center. There are currently 578 students taking classes at other Orange County locations. The northern Durham campus figures were between 200-300 last spring. That means there are more Durham Technology students taking classes at the Skills Development Center than at the northern Durham campus. Commissioner Gordon asked about the operational expenses at the northern Durham campus and Dr. Wynn said that they are approximately $500,000 per year. Commissioner Halkiotis said that it is important for us to keep in mind that when we support Durham Tech in Orange County with a satellite campus, that we are basically setting into place another school system that we will be supporting. He is fully supportive of this satellite campus. Commissioner Brown said that she has always felt that a community college is important for our citizens. In response to the comments made by Allen Spalt, Commissioner Brown said that there has been a work session on this and the County Commissioners discussed having a campus that had co- location possibilities and public transportation. Commissioner Carey said that it is clear that all members of the Board of County Commissioners support this project and look forward to working with Durham Tech. Chair Jacobs said that as we move forward, we might want to include some public representation on the various short-term task forces. b. 2002-12 Capital Investment Plan (CIP) Public Hearing The Board conducted a public hearing for the purpose of receiving public input on the proposed 2002-12 Capital Investment Plan. John Link gave background information as included in the agenda abstract. He said that this is the second of two public hearings on the County Manager's Recommended 2002-2012 Capital Investment Plan. He commented that the CIP is the culmination of a great deal of thought on the part of the Board of County Commissioners, the Capital Needs Task Force, and the recommendations of the school boards and superintendents. This CIP reflects the ultimate decision of the County Commissioners as to what elements were put on last November's bond referendum. This CIP also includes recommended projects that are not necessarily approved by the Board of County Commissioners. This CIP represents $278 million with $178 million designated for schools. Budget Director Donna Dean highlighted some of the primary components of the CIP. This was a PowerPoint presentation and is incorporated by reference. The ten-year capital plan offers a chance for the County to partner with schools, towns, and other community agencies to provide residents with new and enhanced opportunities (i.e., affordable housing; senior centers; parks, recreation and open space; and educational facilities). The plan includes $4 million for affordable housing; $6.1 million for senior centers; $32.9 million for parks, recreation, and open space; $34.5 million for public buildings; and $126 million for educational facilities. There will be a CIP and budget work session on April 22nd, a work session to discuss justice facilities on April 30th, and CIP and budget related work sessions in May and June. The two public hearings on the budget are May 30th and June 6tn Public Comment Patrick Sullivan spoke in support of sufficient park and recreation facilities. He served on the Capital Needs Task Force. He asked that the County Commissioners remember the commitment that was made to the public for soccer facilities during the bond referendum. The Orange County soccer groups met last week and discussed a lot of the ongoing needs of the soccer programs in Orange County. They are concerned that a lot of these projects will be delayed because of the State budget problems. They would like to be able to work with the Board and other groups to find ways to come up with creative solutions to make the soccer facilities happen sooner. Lori Olson, Executive Director of the Eno River Association in Durham County, read a resolution that was approved by their Board of Directors on April 11th. She said that they were very excited about the Lands Legacy Program. The Eno River Association urges the County Commissioners to adopt a schedule for the sale of bonds, which places an appropriate emphasis on the early sale of bonds in support of the Lands Legacy Program. They suggest moving approximately $1.5 million from 2005-06 to 2003-04. She submitted the resolution to the Board. Allen Spalt said that while he supports many of the things included in the CIP, he wants to talk about education. He said that the past support of Orange County for its schools is amazing and has been great. At the same time, at any hearing dealing with the funding of the public schools, you will hear many tales of how overcrowded they have gotten in the past and you end up playing catch up. He said that we need to move to a new system of not playing catch up. He supports the Schools Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance. A necessary component and the most difficult one is to adopt a capital improvement plan for the schools that is substantial, proactive, specific, and a meaningful commitment to the schools that works in advance. He said that if this piece is in place, then everything else will follow. He urged the County Commissioners to support a CIP sufficient to be compatible with the adoption and implementation of the SAPFO. He thinks that this requires an earlier commitment to a high school in Chapel Hill. John Butcher made reference to the recommendation of the Chapel Hill-Carrboro City School Board for a third high school on Ray Road. He said that input from the residents of Ray Road has not been sought. He said that the neighbors were not necessarily opposed to siting a school there, but there are some significant environmental, traffic, light pollution, and quality of life issues that should be taken into account in the process. He asked that the County Commissioners consider these issues before approving this specific tract. Hervey McKever spoke in support of the Lands Legacy Program. He asked that the County Commissioners move about $1.5 million of the funds that are earmarked for later years (eg. 2005-06) forward to 2003-04. The reason is that land acquisition requires flexibility and responsiveness for when landowners are willing to sell. Judy Margolis spoke in support of a third high school for Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools. She asked that the task force for the Eubanks Road site include two parents and two members of the Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools district. She said that both high schools would reach capacity next year. She said that during the bond task force meetings, they were told that there was alternative financing for an additional high school. She also read a prepared statement from Etta Pisano. Ms. Pisano also wrote in support of the funds for a third high school in Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools. She said that the schools must be at or under capacity for the SAPFO to be implemented. This high school is needed in three to four years. Robert Dowling from the Orange Community Housing and Land Trust said that they would be bringing money back to the County because the Meadowmont project is going to come in under budget. He anticipates returning over $300,000 to the County at the completion of the project. He asked that Orange Community Housing be allowed to retain the money until construction is complete. He asked that the County Commissioners set up a revolving loan fund so that non-profits can access funds quickly to respond to an opportunity. The loan would be repaid in a short period of time. He also asked the County Commissioners to allocate some of the recent bond money in the current calendar year for affordable housing. Steven Chandler lives on Ray Road, which is where the third high school is proposed. He said that the neighbors were concerned about the area and would like to see it preserved as much as possible. They are not opposed to the high school, they just want to have their comments considered. The public hearing was closed. c. FY 2002 CDBG Program - IDA Program The Board held a public hearing for the purpose of receiving public comments regarding the development of a FY 2002 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) application for an Individual Development Account (IDA). Housing and Community Development Director Tara Fikes summarized the information in the agenda. She said that the request for $40,000 is for the Women's Center. Of the $40,000, $20,000 will be used to match participant savings and the other $20,000 will be used for operating costs. The program does require a local match. Public Comment Patricia Hammond from the Women's Center clarified that the other $40,000 was not just for operating expenses - $12,800 will come from CDBG and $12,800 local funds will be used directly for education of the participants. Only $7,200 from CDBG and $7,200 from local would be used for administrative costs. A motion was made by Commissioner Halkiotis, seconded by Commissioner Carey to close the public hearing; approve and authorize the Chair to sign a resolution authorizing the submission of the formal application document on or about April 17, 2002 and authorize the Chair to sign the application document on behalf of the Board; and approve the allocation of $40,000 in match funding from the County's Housing Trust Fund. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING AN APPLICATION FOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT FUNDS WHEREAS, the N. C. Department of Commerce -Division of Community Assistance announced the availability of approximately $500,000 in Small Cities Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program funds for the purpose of establishing Individual Development Account (IDA) Programs to first- time homebuyers with incomes below 80% of the median income; and WHEREAS, an application for funding must be sent to the Division of Community Assistance on or before April 30, 2002 in order to receive the funds; and WHEREAS, Individual Development Accounts are dedicated savings accounts to be used for homeownership only; and WHEREAS, the Women's Center presently operated an IDA Program under the County's TANF Program and have expressed an interest in administering this program utilizing CDBG funds; and WHEREAS, the grant funds will be used to match participant savings by a 1:1 ratio for a total of 20 families; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Orange County Board of Commissioners, that an application for FY 2002 Community Development Block Grant funds for the Individual Development Account Program under the North Carolina Small Cities Program is hereby authorized. The amount of the request will be $40,000. The application will be submitted on or about April 30, 2002. FURTHER, the Orange County Board of Commissioners authorizes the Chair of the Board to sign the application document on the County's behalf. This, the 16th day of April 2002. VOTE: UNANIMOUS 8. ITEMS FOR DECISION -CONSENT AGENDA A motion was made by Commissioner Carey, seconded by Commissioner Halkiotis to approve those items on the consent agenda as stated below: a. Proposed Contract with Haden-Stanziale for Conceptual Design and Site Planning at Little River Regional Park This item was removed and placed at the end of the consent agenda for separate consideration. b. Bid Award: Removal and Replanting of Trees at Richard Whitted Human Services Center This item was removed and placed at the end of the consent agenda for separate consideration. c. Budget Amendment #6 The Board approved budget ordinance amendments and grant and capital project ordinances for fiscal year 2001-2002. d. Pyrotechnics Approval: Blue Cross and Blue Shield Family Day The Board approved a pyrotechnics permit for Blue Cross and Blue Shield Family Day 2002, to be held Saturday, May 4, 2002. e. Appointments to the Advisory Board on Aging The Board appointed Jennie Capparella as a Carrboro representative with a term ending June 30, 2003; and Dougald M. Monroe, Jr. and Arthrell D. Sanders as At-Large representatives, with term ending dates of June 30, 2005 and June 30, 2004 respectively to the Advisory Board on Aging. f. Request for Leave of Absence by a Member of the Commission for Women The Board approved a request by Commission for Women member Terri Allred for asix-month leave of absence. g_ Removal of a Member and Reappointments to the Adult Care Home Community Advisory Committee The Board removed Tracy Diefenderfer for excessive absenteeism from, and reappointed Charron Andrews, Carol Gunther-Mohr, and Alice V. McCall-Smith for term ending dates of March 31, 2004 to the Adult Care Home Community Advisory Committee. VOTE ON THE CONSENT AGENDA: UNANIMOUS ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT AGENDA a. Proposed Contract with Haden-Stanziale for Conceptual Desian and Site Plannina at Little River Regional Park The Board considered awarding a contract to Haden-Stanziale, P.A. to develop a conceptual design and site plan for the Little River Regional Park and natural area. Commissioner Brown pointed out some specificity that she felt should have been included in this contract. She would like an area set aside for camping in the future. She did not see anything listed for a house site for the resident manager. The County Commissioners had discussed moving one of the houses from a flood area for this reason. There is also no mention of restroom facilities. Environment and Resource Conservation Director David Stancil said that the Board did look at the preliminary list of uses and agreed to those at a previous meeting. The contractor would be developing a concept plan that the County Commissioners would see. The advisory committee would be brought back together to look at this during the process. The details as mentioned by Commissioner Brown could be added at that time. Also, the details of the interlocal agreement will be developed later which would include the proposed house for a caretaker. It was decided that this item would be reconsidered at the April 30, 2002 work session. b. Bid Award: Removal and Replanting of Trees at Richard Whitted Human Services Center The Board considered awarding a contract to Audobon Tree of Pittsboro for the removal and replanting of trees at the Whitted Human Services Center. Chair Jacobs pointed out that information on the renovations of the Whitted Center is available in the library. There have been some concerns expressed by citizens about the renovations and there is going to be a neighborhood information meeting to address these concerns. A motion was made by Chair Jacobs, seconded by Commissioner Carey to approve and award a contract to Audobon Tree of Pittsboro for the removal and replanting of trees at the Whitted Human Services Center. VOTE: UNANIMOUS 9. ITEMS FOR DECISION -REGULAR AGENDA a. Consolidated Housing Plan Update/Home Program The Board considered a resolution approving the 2002 Consolidated Housing Plan Update, and considered approving the proposed HOME Program activities for 2002-2003. Tara Fikes summarized the information in the agenda. The public hearing was held on February 5th to receive citizen comments regarding the update. They received 16 applications from local non-profit organizations and other local governmental units requesting HOME funds in the amount of $1.2 million. There is $615,000 available this year. The proposal is to use most of the HOME funds for property acquisition, particularly to help OPC Mental Health in the amount of $75,000 to acquire rehabilitated houses that they would rent to their clients. There are also funds for Residential Services to purchase an existing house for adults with autism. Funds would also be allocated to Affordable Rentals, Inc. (a new non-profit) to purchase a duplex that they would lease to aloes-income family. They are also suggesting to allocate funds to the Town of Chapel Hill's Department of Housing to help them in their efforts to provide transitional housing, and also to provide funds for a community revitalization loan program that would help purchase and resell housing. Commissioner Carey and Chair Jacobs mentioned Affordable Rentals, Inc. and asked if they were well established enough to be eligible for funds. Tara Fikes said that they talked about conditioning the money set aside until the organization has some things in place such as a sound management plan. Commissioner Gordon added up the numbers and said that there was a discrepancy with the $615,000. Tara Fikes made the corrections. The funds allocated for the Town of Chapel Hill was supposed to be $28,117 instead of $90,000. This would make the total $615,117, which is the money available. Adding $48,100 in administrative costs brings the total to $663,217. A motion was made by Commissioner Brown, seconded by Commissioner Halkiotis to adopt resolutions (incorporated by reference) approving the 2002 Consolidated Housing Plan Annual Update and the proposed HOME Program Activities for 2002-2003. Additionally, to authorize the Manager to implement the HOME Program as approved by the Board of County Commissioners including the ability to execute agreements with partnering non-profit organizations after consultation with the County Attorney. VOTE: UNANIMOUS b. Comprehensive Plan Land Use Committee (CPLUC) The Board discussed the Comprehensive Plan Land Use Committee. This item was continued from the April 3, 2002 work session. Planning Director Craig Benedict said that the next step is to receive input from a Comprehensive Plan Land Use Committee, which would be made up of two County Commissioners and members from existing County boards with certain interest areas. The committee would be talking about where the projections meet the constraints. Chair Jacobs suggested having two Planning Board members on the committee because this issue most directly relates to the Planning Board. He thinks the Planning Board has lost sight somewhat of its larger role in envisioning the overall framework of planning and has come to see itself more as a development review committee. He thinks this would be a way to broaden their perspective. He has spoken with the Chair and Vice-Chair of the Planning Board, the Manager, and the Planning Director about having a working dinner prior to the May 28th public hearing with the Planning Board so the County Commissioners can share some of their vision for Orange County planning. Craig Benedict said that the work of Shaping Orange County's Future and other task forces from the last five years should be brought forward in this process also. Commissioner Brown would like for the County Commissioners to make the appointments to the committee. Commissioner Gordon supported Chair Jacobs' comments about the Planning Board. She also supports the County Commissioners appointing the committee members. A motion was made by Commissioner Gordon, seconded by Commissioner Carey to establish and appoint anine-member Comprehensive Plan Land Use Committee as outlined, with the addition of another representative from the Planning Board, with the Board of County Commissioners approving the appointments. Commissioner Brown asked for a list of all the members of all the suggested boards. VOTE: UNANIMOUS c. Orange County/Hillsborough Courtesy Review Agreement The Board considered a revised courtesy review agreement with the Town of Hillsborough. Craig Benedict said that this agreement was considered by the County Commissioners one year ago. He summarized the information in the agenda. He told how the agreement would be administered. The are some thresholds suggested by the two staffs. When there is a land use amendment, rezoning, special use permit, conditional use permit, or an annexation involving five acres or more, the Town of Hillsborough would notify the County. The County would have five days to provide comments to Hillsborough on the County's interests. Craig Benedict would email the County Commissioners and ask for comments, and the comments would be sent back to Hillsborough for their consideration. The Board can ask for a joint meeting in some cases, but there would have to be an extension of time. Chair Jacobs said that he and Clerk to the Board Beverly Blythe were working on scheduling a meeting with the Town of Hillsborough about Orange Grove Road. If there are some unresolved issues about the agreement, they can be brought up at this meeting. Commissioner Gordon said that the timeframe of five days is so rapid that she does not understand how the elected officials could be involved. It seems to her that only the Planning staffs would have time to be involved. She would like to have this addressed. She asked to see the former agreement to see how the new agreement was changed. Commissioner Halkiotis said that he still has some concerns regarding involuntary annexations. He said that the events of the involuntary annexation that resulted in the new town reservoir left behind a legacy of some very bad feelings. He does not think it is good for one group of elected officials to learn about an involuntary annexation through the media. He will bring this up in the meeting with the Town. Chair Jacobs is also concerned with the timeframe. He said that the comments from the County Commissioners would be very disjointed because they would not have time to meet and discuss the concerns. Also, he agreed that we do need to make a distinction for commercial development of an intense nature under five acres. He said that you could go up instead of out on 4.9 acres and put quite a large development on a piece of property, which would have a major impact on the County's jurisdiction and it would be exempt from a courtesy review under this scenario. He agreed that the issue of involuntary annexation requires more notice and care because it is a potential flash point of ill will. John Link recommended that the staff try to respond to the Town of Hillsborough with Orange County's specific recommendations on how to pursue the agreement further. He said that the Town Manager agrees that one entity or the other needs to initiate further the specificity of the agreement. The Board agreed to schedule a joint meeting with the Town of Hillsborough to discuss this agreement further. d. Regulated Recyclable Materials Ordinance -Establish Three New Support Positions and Award Equipment Bids The Board was to consider establishing three new full-time permanent positions in the Solid Waste Management Department, and awarding bids for equipment to support implementation of the County's Regulated Recyclable Materials Ordinance. However, because of time constraints this item was postponed. e. Chapel Hill Township Park and Educational Campus -Master Plan Process The Board was to consider a draft proposal for the Master Plan process for the 193-acre Chapel Hill Township Park and educational campus. However, because of time constraints this item was postponed. 10. REPORTS -NONE 11. APPOINTMENTS- NONE 12. MINUTES- NONE 13. CLOSED SESSION -NONE 14. ADJOURNMENT With no further items for the County Commissioners to consider, a motion was made by, Commissioner Halkiotis seconded by Commissioner Brown to adjourn the meeting at 10:40 p.m. VOTE: UNANIMOUS The next regular meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, April 17, 2002 at 7:30 p.m. at the Southern Human Services Center in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Barry Jacobs, Chair Beverly A. Blythe, CMC