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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - 19991005APPROVED 211412000 MINUTES ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING October 5, 1999 The Orange County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, October 5, 1999 at 7:30 p.m. in the F. Gordon Battle Courtroom in Hillsborough, North Carolina. COUNTY COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Chair Alice M. Gordon and Commissioners Margaret W. Brown, Moses Carey, Jr., Stephen H. Halkiotis and Barry Jacobs COUNTY ATTORNEY PRESENT: Geoffrey Gledhill COUNTY STAFF PRESENT: County Manager John M. Link, Jr., Assistant County Managers Rod Visser and Albert Kittrell, 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. ALL RECORDINGS OF THE MEETING WILL BE KEPT FOR 5 YEARS. 1. ADDITIONS OR CHANGES TO THE AGENDA The County Commissioners deleted item 9-f regarding the Woodgreen Subdivision. The developer requested additional time to review the recommendation. Chair Gordon announced that item 10-a regarding the Report on the Ban of Inhumane Animal Traps will be a report with a public hearing held later. 2. CITIZEN & AUDIENCE COMMENTS a. Matters on the Printed Agenda Chair Gordon stated that citizens who have indicated a desire to speak on an item that appear on the printed agenda would be recognized at the appropriate time. b. Matters not on the Printed Agenda David Sykes requested that the County Commissioners amend one section of the animal control ordinance related to noises. He resides in a residential area of the County. The lots are wide but the next door neighbor has a number of roosters (6-12) and they disturb the neighborhood. He said that the noise ordinance now only refers to animals who bark, whine, or howl. Chair Gordon said that this would be referred to staff for review and a recommendation. Commissioner Jacobs said that it has been referred to the Board of Health and they recommended no change in the County's Animal Control Ordinance. Commissioner Carey said that he would like to know the rationale for the Health Board decision. Mr. Sykes lives on Highway 70 west of Hillsborough. Commissioner Halkiotis said that he would also like to know the rationale for the Board of Health decision and what action the Hillsborough Town Board took when they discussed this item. Commissioner Brown asked for clarification on whether the Board of Health or the County Commissioners approve the regulations for animal control. Geoff Gledhill said that the Board of County Commissioners adopts the County's Animal Control Ordinance. Commissioner Brown asked for more information on the Animal Control Ordinance and what it says regarding residential areas as opposed to farm areas. PUBLIC CHARGE Chair Gordon dispensed with the reading of the public charge. 3. BOARD COMMENTS Commissioner Halkiotis made reference to the article from the News and Observer about the possibility of developers trading schools for water in Cary. He said that this initiative might be a first in the state of North Carolina. He asked about the possibility of sending this article to members of the Hillsborough Town Board and asking them to consider a similar request for Corbin Downs. He said that rather than make the taxpayers of Orange County pay for a new school because of new development, the developers should provide this facility. Commissioner Halkiotis thanked the Manager for getting the letter to Edgecombe County for Orange County to help with Hurricane Floyd relief. He would like a letter to go to the various County departments in Orange County government thanking them for helping in the Hurricane Floyd relief effort. Commissioner Jacobs made reference to the letter to Edgecombe County and asked if the Manager feels this is what he envisioned as part of a sister county relationship or if there would be a more formal proposal coming to the Board. John Link said that Edgecombe's County Manager Joe Durham is not in his office because it was destroyed, and he is working out of EMS and the Sheriff's office. The letter opens the door for his response back with the support he needs. Joe Durham is not sure what else needs to be done formally. John Link is waiting on him to respond back with information about the needs. Commissioner Jacobs asked if there are any legal issues involved with this process. John Link said that he does not see any problems since this entire process is supported by FEMA. Geoff Gledhill said that he does not perceive any legal problems with offering resources from Orange County. He said that it would be different if Orange County were to send a large sum of money. John Link will do a resolution of support. Commissioner Carey said that he did not want the report to delay any action that could be taken for Edgecombe County. Commissioner Brown made reference to the Habitat for Humanity construction project on Rogers Road. She said that there is a continuation of the Rogers Road project which is located in the neighborhood that may be impacted by the landfill. Habitat for Humanity does expect water and sewer lines to be extended to this area. She recommended that there be coordination with Habitat for Humanity regarding the impact of the landfill. Chair Gordon made reference to the SportsPlex and said that she has asked the Manager for audit reports on the SportsPlex. She said that the first audit for the SportsPlex was from June 1-May 31 St in 1995-1996 and it had some problems. The second audit was from June 1-May 31St in 1996-1997 and it was not provided to the Board. She would like to see this audit. She thinks it is important to keep up with the issue of the SportsPlex because the County has put $400,000 of taxpayers' money into it. She made reference to an article about Durham Hospital and the fact that their audit originally indicated a surplus that ended up being a deficit. She said that the point is that audits are needed in order to have financial statements that are reliable. She is formally asking for these audits for the SportsPlex and would also like a status report. 4. COUNTY MANAGER'S REPORT John Link indicated that he distributed to the County Commissioners a list of follow-up items from the last few meetings. He mentioned the survey that was done of Hillsborough citizens regarding transportation needs. He said that Jerry Passmore is offering a free weekend at the beach to the name drawn tonight. Chair Gordon drew and announced that the winner is Sharron Kenton, from Glendale Avenue in Hillsborough. 5. RESOLUTIONSIPROCLAMATIONS a. Domestic Violence Awareness Month The Board considered proclaiming October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. A motion was made by Commissioner Carey, seconded by Commissioner Halkiotis to proclaim October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Human Rights and Relations Director Annette Moore introduced her new Human Rights Coordinator who read this proclamation. Commissioner Brown suggested sending a copy of this proclamation to the facility on Homestead Road. Commissioner Halkiotis suggested putting the proclamation in a frame at the facility on Homestead Road so it could be changed out every year. DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH OCTOBER 1999 A PROCLAMATION WHEREAS, domestic violence, once a secret kept among families, is now recognized as a serious crime in our community; and WHEREAS, domestic violence has severe consequences for survivors, their children and families and impacts on the quality of life of the entire community; and WHEREAS, stopping the cycle of this crime requires not only the resolve and courage of survivors, but also support and involvement from all of us; and WHEREAS, enhanced education, prevention and intervention help increase public awareness of the severity and extent of domestic violence; and WHEREAS, violence in the home is a problem that affects every socioeconomic level in our society, occurring in wealthy and disadvantaged neighborhoods and involving the employed and unemployed; and WHEREAS, domestic violence is generally learned and passed down from one generation to another; and WHEREAS, our society pays a high price for domestic violence through homelessness, increased crime rates, drug and alcohol abuse, increased medical expenses and business losses; and WHEREAS, during the month of October, local, state, and national domestic violence agencies will sponsor events to help us focus public attention on the problem of domestic violence; NOW, THEREFORE, The Orange County Board of County Commissioners hereby proclaims the month of October 1999 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. We encourage all residents to dedicate themselves to learning about reducing domestic violence and violence against women in Orange County. We further encourage all citizens of our community to support the domestic violence programs in their communities, including the Orange County Commission for Women and the Orange/Durham Coalition for Battered Women. THIS, THE 5T" DAY OF OCTOBER 1999. VOTE: UNANIMOUS b. National Disability Awareness Employment Month Proclamation The Board considered proclaiming October as National Disability Awareness Employment Month. Patricia Copeland, President of the Disability Awareness Council, made reference to the job link center and asked that if anyone knows of jobs for the disabled to let her know. A motion was made by Commissioner Halkiotis, seconded by Commissioner Jacobs to proclaim October as National Disability Awareness Employment Month. National Disability Awareness Employment Month A PROCLAMATION WHEREAS, disability is a natural part of the human experience and in no way diminishes the right of individuals with disabilities to live independently, enjoy self determination, make choices, contribute to society, and experience full inclusion in the economic, political, social, cultural and educational mainstream of American society; and WHEREAS, family members, friends and members of the community can play a central role in enhancing the lives of people with disabilities especially when the family and community are provided with necessary support services; and public and private employers are aware of the capabilities of people with disabilities to be engaged in competitive work in inclusive settings; and WHEREAS, the goals of the County properly include providing individuals with disabilities the opportunities and support to make informed choices and decisions; live in homes and communities where such individuals can exercise their full rights and responsibilities as citizens, pursue meaningful and productive lives, contribute to their family, community, state, and nation; have interdependent friendships and relationships with others; and achieve full inclusion in society. NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Orange County Board of Commissioners does hereby proclaim the month of October 1999 as NATIONAL DISAB/LITYAWARENESS EMPLOYMENT MONTH. VOTE: UNANIMOUS 6. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS a. Governmental Finance Office Officers' Association Award for Excellence in Financial Reporting The Board recognized Finance Director Ken Chavious and his staff for the receipt of the Government Finance Officers' Association Certificate of Achievement in Financial Reporting. Ken Chavious said that this has been a team effort and he appreciates every member of his staff for their help in this accomplishment. 7. PUBLIC HEARINGS a. Public Hearing on NC Department of Transportation's Rural Operating Assistance Program The Board held a public hearing regarding the proposed fiscal year 1999-2000 Rural Operating Assistance Program (ROAP) application, which includes the Elderly and Disabled Assistance Program, the Work First Transitional/Employment Transportation Assistance Program, and the Rural General Public Program, and considered approval of the combined ROAP application. Department on Aging Director Jerry Passmore said that it is now a requirement of the N. C. Department of Transportation ROAP application package that the Board of County Commissioners must hold a public hearing. The NCDOT has combined the application process for these three grant programs into one package. He introduced the Transportation Operation Supervisor, Kathy Lewis. The funding for the Elderly and Disabled Transportation Assistance Program is $58,260. The Rural General Public award is $11,911 and requires a 10% match, which helps to subsidize the rural Orange Public Transportation routes. The Work First allocation is $9,143 with no match. He said that $300 is allocated to each individual to assist them with insurance or repairs for transportation to use for employment. If the individual does not have a car, the $300 goes for carpooling and bus passes. Commissioner Brown asked about the Elderly and Disabled Assistance Program and if it was expanded to include other areas of the County. Jerry Passmore said that the program has been expanded to provide one trip per week for disabled and elderly for personal business as well as medical. Commissioner Brown asked if any of the programs interacted with the Chapel Hill bus system. Jerry Passmore said that the programs are coordinating with downtown Chapel Hill. Commissioner Brown made reference to the review of Chapel Hill's bus service and asked if Jerry Passmore was included on that task force. Jerry Passmore said that there is now a need to bus the elderly and disabled for medical needs outside Orange County. UNC Hospital has now set up facilities in Durham at the new High Gate offices. Chair Gordon was asked to write Chapel Hill and request that Jerry Passmore be added to their committee reviewing the bus service. Commissioner Halkiotis asked Kathy Lewis how many years she has been with the County and she said thirteen years. He commended her and the Department on Aging and said that they have come a long way. Jerry Passmore said that the Orange County Department on Aging transportation service has the highest rating for the rural areas in the state. Commissioner Carey thanked Jerry Passmore and his staff. He has seen the transportation system grow in response to the need for the service. Chair Gordon asked if UNC hospitals could help with providing transportation out of the County. Jerry Passmore said that he and his staff plan to look into this possibility. Chair Gordon said that Triangle Transit Authority (TTA) has hired a mobility manager. One of the things this mobility manager is suppose to do is help plan transportation for the Work First candidates. She asked if Jerry Passmore feels that TTA is doing what needs to be done. Kathy Lewis said that she is not sure everything is being done that could be done by TTA. She will continue to work with them on the needs of our citizens. Commissioner Jacobs asked for clarification about the review of the bus system that Chapel Hill is doing. He said that it seems appropriate that Jerry Passmore participates and also anyone else who may be knowledgeable about the needs of our citizens. A motion was made by Commissioner Halkiotis, seconded by Commissioner Carey to approve the Manager's recommendation of submitting the fiscal year 1999-2000 application for the Rural Operating Assistance Program and authorize the Chair to sign the necessary documents. VOTE: UNANIMOUS 8. ITEMS FOR DECISION - CONSENT AGENDA A motion was made by Commissioner Halkiotis, seconded by Commissioner Jacobs to approve those items on the consent agenda as stated below: a. Efland Sewer Fund Inter-fund Debt The Board considered options for resolving debt issues related to the Efland Sewer Fund. The County Commissioners provided conceptual approval of the repayment schedule as outlined in the "Background" section of this agenda abstract and asked staff to prepare and submit the necessary documents to implement the repayment plan at a subsequent regular meeting. b. Reaffirm Board's Position on Term Limits for Appointees to Boards and Commissions This item was removed and placed at the end of the consent agenda. C. Budget Amendment #3 The Board approved a budget ordinance amendment for the 1999-2000 fiscal year which is incorporated herein by reference. d. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Designation of Applicant's Agent and Disaster Relief Agreement The Board adopted a resolution and approved an agreement as required by FEMA and the State for processing reimbursements for expenses related to Hurricane Floyd and authorized the Chair to sign on behalf of the Board. e. Orange Public Transportation (OPT) Fee Schedule Modification The Board approved fee schedule modifications recommended by the Human Services Transportation Advisory Board. f. OPT Agreement Renewals with Participating Agencies The Board approved and authorized the Chair to sign the annual Orange Public Transportation (OPT) agreements with human service agencies for fiscal year 1999-2000. g Employee Dental Insurance for 2000 The Board approved a rate increase for employee dental insurance effective Jan. 1, 2000. h. Motor Vehicle Property Tax Refunds The Board approved one request for refund of property taxes for Sean Arnold Murray, Account # E19675 and F19497 in the amount of $208.78. L Impact Fee Reimbursement This item was removed and placed at the end of the consent agenda. j_ Change in BOCC Regular Meeting Schedule The Board approved changing its regular meeting schedule to add a Schools and Land Use Council meeting on Oct. 13, 1999. This change is in time only, and moves the time back to 5:30 p.m. and includes a BOCC work session after the JPA meeting. k. Matching Allocation to Joint Orange-Chatham CommunitV Action (JOCCA) The Board approved allocating $12,500 to the Joint Orange-Chatham Community Action Agency for its deficit reduc 1. Contract award - Plumbing Repairs at Northside The Board awarded a contract in the amount of $21,336 to Brown Brothers Plumbing of Durham for repairs at the Northside facility in Chapel Hill. m. Contract Award - Piggy-back of Bid for Digital Voice Logging System The Board awarded a contract in the amount of $29,763 to Dictaphone Corporation for a digital voice logging system for EMS in a bid piggy-backed with a similar bid by Huntsville Alabama Utilities dated August 30, 1999. n. Temporary Lease Adiustment The Board reduced the monthly rent at 501 Franklin Street from $1076.89 to $800 to mitigate flood damage. VOTE ON THE CONSENT AGENDA: UNANIMOUS ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT AGENDA b. Reaffirm Board's Position on Term Limits for Appointees to Boards and Commissions The Board considered reaffirming its policy of appointing members to boards and commissions for a maximum of two three-year terms. Commissioner Jacobs said that he noticed a member of the Board of Health was at this meeting and wondered if he may want to speak to this item. The member had already left the meeting. A motion was made by Commissioner Jacobs, seconded by Commissioner Carey to reaffirm the County's policy of appointing members to boards and commissions for a maximum of two three-year terms. VOTE: UNANIMOUS i. Impact Fee Reimbursement The Board considered approval of an impact fee refund request from EmPOWERment in the amount of $3,000 for newly renovated owner occupied housing. Commissioner Jacobs said that because this is a regressive fee, the staff should look at situations where individuals have a difficult time in paying the impact fee and set up a loan fund to assist people who need it. He asked if this suggestion is reasonable and if it could be folded into the discussion of impact fees so there is a thorough package which would address people with low income who have problems in paying this fee. Chair Gordon said that there is a whole set of issues with the framework of the impact fee. The question is do the County Commissioners want to revisit the structure of the impact fee. She suggested bringing this issue of loan funds back when the technical report from Planning Director Craig Benedict is received. Commissioner Carey does not propose changing the structure or process of impact fees. He said that the Board has discussed ways to mitigate the impact of the impact fee. He said that he did not think that Commissioner Jacobs was proposing to change the structure or the process of the impact fees. John Link said that staff could begin to discuss the loan fund possibility. He will respond back on how individuals are notified when they have not received a Certificate of Occupancy. Commissioner Brown said that it is also a communication issue and the information being distributed about impact fees might need to be updated. A motion was made by Commissioner Jacobs, seconded by Commissioner Carey to approve an impact fee refund request from EmPOWERment in the amount of $3,000 for newly renovated owner occupied housing. Commissioner Brown asked Tara Fikes about #3 on the agenda abstract, and how the housing would remain affordable for twenty years. Housing and Community Development Director Tara Fikes said that a deed of trust would be attached to the property that requires the housing to remain affordable for twenty years. If it is not affordable for twenty years, then the buyer is required to repay the full amount. She said that this prevents the homeowner from taking out additional loans on the property. She said that at Magnolia Place, there were four homes sold. Two were sold to those who qualified for affordability and two were not. Chair Gordon said that she thinks more work should be done to keep affordable housing affordable. VOTE: UNANIMOUS 9. ITEMS FOR DECISION - REGULAR AGENDA a. Appointments The Board considered appointments to the Human Services Advisory Commission, the Northern Transition Area Advisory Committee, and the Orange County Planning Board. Human Services Advisory Commission Commissioner Jacobs asked Albert Kittrell about the at-large vacancy for the Human Services Advisory Commission, number 16, and why there was no recommendation to fill it. Commissioner Jacobs would like to recommend Rosetta Wash for the number 16 vacancy. Ms. Wash is a Planning Board applicant and works as Program Director at IFC Community House and has a lot of experience in the kinds of things the Human Services Advisory Commission works on. A motion was made by Commissioner Jacobs, seconded by Commissioner Carey to appoint Rebecca A. Young and Cathleen Q. Trask for unexpired terms ending 3/31/2000 and Rosetta Wash to a term ending 3/31/2002, contingent upon her acceptance, to the Human Services Advisory Commission. VOTE: UNANIMOUS Northern Transition Area Advisory Committee A motion was made by Commissioner Brown, seconded by Commissioner Carey to appoint Jay Bryan, Steven Darden, Kathy Kaufman, Carol-Ann Greenslade, and Jean Earnhardt for the Northern Transition Area Advisory Committee. Chair Gordon clarified that this board only needs three positions. Commissioner Brown retracted her motion and Commissioner Carey retracted his second. Commissioner Halkiotis nominated Jay Bryan. Commissioner Brown nominated Kathy Kaufman. Commissioner Jacobs nominated Jean Earnhardt. A motion was made by Commissioner Halkiotis, seconded by Commissioner Carey to close the nominations. VOTE: UNANIMOUS A motion was made by Commissioner Halkiotis, seconded by Commissioner Brown to appoint Jay Bryan, Kathy Kaufman, and Jean Andrews Earnhardt to the Northern Transition Area Advisory Committee for a term ending 1/31/2000. VOTE: UNANIMOUS Orange County Planning Board Chair Gordon explained that there are three openings on the Orange County Planning Board and all of them are specific to a township. At this time, there are no representatives from Bingham, Eno, or Hillsborough Townships on the Planning Board. Commissioner Jacobs nominated Theresa Nicole Gooding Ray from Bingham Township. A motion was made by Commissioner Halkiotis, seconded by Commissioner Jacobs to close the nominations for Bingham Township. VOTE: UNANIMOUS A motion was made by Commissioner Jacobs, seconded by Commissioner Halkiotis to appoint Theresa Nicole Gooding Ray to the Orange County Planning Board, representing Bingham Township for a term ending 3/31/2002. VOTE: UNANIMOUS Commissioner Halkiotis nominated Rachel Preston from Eno Township. A motion was made by Commissioner Carey, seconded by Commissioner Halkiotis to close the nominations for Eno Township. VOTE: UNANIMOUS A motion was made by Commissioner Jacobs, seconded by Commissioner Halkiotis to appoint Rachel Preston to the Orange County Planning Board, representing Eno Township for a term ending 3/31/2002. VOTE: UNANIMOUS In response to a suggestion from Commissioner Jacobs, the Board agreed by consensus to advertise for additional applications from Hillsborough Township. b. Approval of the Charge and Appointments to the Master Aging Plan Committees The Board considered approval of the charge to and membership of the Master Aging Plan committees. Chair Gordon distributed a list of items for discussion and possible action. In summary, she asked that a specific process be followed in creating this task force, formulating the charge, and setting up a committee structure. She was concerned about the diversity of the task force and subcommittees. Florence Soltys, Chair of the Aging Board, said that there are now more people in Orange County that are over 60 than there are in the public schools. She said that it is projected that over the next 20 years the amount of people over 60 will grow by 140%. She said that the Department on Aging staff has advertised for applicants in the Senior Times twice. This publication goes out to 25,000 people. There were also 6,000 letters sent to a wide diversity of people from various organizations. She said that 109 people responded. She noted that she realizes that there is not a Hispanic representative on the committee, but they have not been able to identify anyone who is interested. Chair Gordon asked if there were any advertisements put in a newspaper of general circulation and Florence Soltys said no. Florence Soltys explained that there are several steering committees with subcommittees branching off. She said that the steering committees have been structured to include people with expertise in the specific areas. Chair Gordon stressed to Florence Soltys that the Board agrees that this is a very important thing. The question is how is the best way to accomplish the Master Aging Plan. Commissioner Halkiotis suggested that Maria Palmer be contacted for assistance in recruiting someone from the Hispanic community. Jerry Passmore said that the Department on Aging is willing to add to this committee and that any suggestions are welcome. Florence Soltys said that she feels this project needs to be pursued while the enthusiasm is there. She feels that the Master Aging Plan would fall behind in the process by not moving ahead on this project at this time. Commissioner Jacobs suggested approving the process at this meeting and the membership at the next meeting. He would like to see the staff use this time to recruit additional members in an attempt to add diversity to the Master Aging Plan Committee. He suggested looking at applicants who are not already serving on other committees. Florence Soltys said that people on this committee are those who know the most about specific areas. Commissioner Brown said that the policy of the Board of County Commissioners is that members can only serve on two boards in the County. She said that it would be nice to add some people to the steering committee who are not always involved with the aging issues. Chair Gordon said that the County Commissioners would work hard to see that this process gets a good start but she would like to see diversity on this task force. She said that the County's application file could be researched and there could be an advertisement in a newspaper of general circulation. She would like to separate the policy makers from the staff and have representatives from each township. She would specifically like to see someone from Cedar Grove. Chair Gordon asked that the Department on Aging bring back the charge for the steering committee and the subcommittees. Jerry Passmore said that the charge is the same for all the subcommittees and included in the agenda abstract. Chair Gordon said that when the strategic plan comes back, there should be prioritized recommendations with costs. Jerry Passmore clarified that this is a task force that will end in May 2000. Chair Gordon suggested creating the task force at this meeting and coming back at a subsequent meeting to appoint the task force. Chair Gordon suggested that she, Commissioner Jacobs, Jerry Passmore, and Florence Soltys meet to discuss the issues involved in this project. A motion was made by Commissioner Carey, seconded by Commissioner Halkiotis to create the task force with the amended changes as discussed and to ask Chair Gordon, Commissioner Jacobs, Jerry Passmore, and Florence Soltys to meet and discuss the remaining issues. VOTE: UNANIMOUS C. i ne boara consiaerea appointing an as noc committee io sway ana maKe recommenaations on me feasibility of developing a Durham Technical Community College branch in Orange County. Commissioner Carey said that he drafted this proposal for the Board's consideration. He feels that this issue needs to be studied further. He thinks that there is a need for a permanent facility in central Orange County for training and education. He asked the Board to appoint a group to study this matter. The staff will draft a charge for the task force for the Board's consideration. Commissioner Halkiotis feels that this is a good idea. He feels that two County Commissioners should be on this task force. Commissioner Carey will be one of the County Commissioners. He said that the time schedule for the new high school is moving along and there is some urgency in studying this issue now. Commissioner Carey suggested asking the staff to draft a charge and a timeline for the next meeting. He would also like to advertise for people to serve on this committee. Commissioner Brown said that she would hope that if the school site does not work out, that it does not stop the County from finding a location. Chair Gordon asked about the type of facility that would be needed. Commissioner Carey said that he was not sure because he was not aware of the needs. He hopes that the task force can research this issue. Commissioner Jacobs said it could follow the model of Smith Middle School working with UNC-CH. He said that Superintendent Randy Bridges was very receptive and enthusiastic about the possibility. Chair Gordon asked the staff to draft a charge and a timeline, and estimate the cost as if the Skills Development Center facility were being duplicated. Commissioner Halkiotis said that Commissioner Carey should chair the task force. He also thinks that John Link needs to be on this task force. He feels that a lot of work has already been done on the needs in the community. He said that some discussions have been going on about this issue for a couple of years. Commissioner Brown suggested adding a representative from Agriculture Extension, Sara Lightfoot from the Skills Development Center, and a representative from Durham Tech. A motion was made by Commissioner Carey, seconded by Commissioner Jacobs for the staff to develop a charge and a timeline and clarify the composition of this task force to bring back to the next BOCC meeting. Commissioner Halkiotis volunteered to be the other County Commissioner on this task force. VOTE: UNANIMOUS d. Northern Fariview Landfill Site Soil Testing and Environmental Analysis The Board considered doing soil testing and an environmental analysis of the Northern Fairview landfill site. John Link said that this test would include the County and the Town of Hillsborough and that the County and Town would share in the cost of the testing, which would be approximately $30,000. The County's share would be $18,600 and the Town's share would be $11,400, which represents the percentage of the land that each jurisdiction owns. The reasoning of the committee is that once the soil testing is completed the Town and County would be able to decide the optimal use of the entire site based on the needs of the local governments. County Engineer Paul Thames made this presentation. He distributed a map showing the entire tract and explained how the soil testing would be done. He said that there are three goals for the soil testing and environmental analysis: 1) to identify the landfill area; 2) to determine what the burying capacity is of the soils in and adjacent to the landfill, and 3) to identify any environmental problems that may have resulted from the burying of materials. If problems are found, they will need to be reported to the North Carolina Division of Solid Waste. Commissioner Jacobs said that at the last committee meeting, the services that are provided by the County to the Town of Hillsborough were discussed. This testing is an opportunity for partnership, not only in the funding of this, but it is potentially a partnership of using Hillsborough's property that would achieve numerous goals that are of use to both jurisdictions. Commissioner Halkiotis said that this was a great opportunity. He mentioned Hillsborough's chipping operation and suggested a possible limited C&D recycling center. He asked who would be responsible for cleaning up anything harmful that would be found on this site. Paul Thames said that everybody who has a conceivable liability there would pay for the cleanup. This would include the Town, the County, individual companies who transported materials there, etc. Commissioner Brown asked if it would be feasible to take the area where the ball field has been created and test the perimeter of that area. She wants to be sure that this area is safe for children. She would also like to get a report back on items C, D, and E on the agenda abstract before adopting them. Paul Thames said that from this testing and analysis the safety of the ball field would be determined. Chair Gordon feels that it is important to find out if this site is safe. However, there may be a situation where hazardous waste is discovered. She said that it might be more prudent to build another ball field possibly near the community center. John Link said that the community center is not being built on the old landfill. Commissioner Jacobs feels that the safety of this site needs to be known regardless of whether there is a ball field there or not. He feels the testing should be done to find out if there is hazardous waste on this site. Chair Gordon said that it should be assumed that the site is not safe and one or two other ball fields could be built in another area. Commissioner Halkiotis feels that if there is a hazard, it needs to be taken care of. He hopes there is no public health issue there, but if so, it needs to be rectified. Commissioner Carey feels the Commissioners have a responsibility to find out if this site has any problems. A motion was made by Commissioner Carey, seconded by Commissioner Halkiotis to approve the Manager's recommendation that the County expend $18,600 from the Northern Fairview Capital Improvement Project for soil testing and environmental analysis of the Northern Fairview Landfill site. Chair Gordon asked if just the perimeter and the buffer of the ball field could be tested. Commissioner Carey said that the issue is more than just the ball field. Chair Gordon said that she is against this because she feels that it is a mistake and one or two ball fields could be built where the safety would be assured. Commissioner Brown said that this motion does not preclude building a ball field elsewhere. She thinks it is important to do this testing and analysis. VOTE: AYES, 4; NO, 1 (Chair Gordon) e. Norin c:aroiina iemporarV ASSIsiance TO NeeaV rarnmes [ IHNrl housing rrog ram The Board considered approval of a funding proposal for the N.C. TANF housing program and authorizing the Chair to sign a letter of support on behalf of the Board. Tara Fikes said that the Governor has dedicated three million dollars in TANF funding to demonstrate the value of housing assistance in helping TANF-eligible families achieve greater self-sufficiency. This program will allow all 100 counties to apply for a maximum of $500,000 in order to design a program that will provide safe, decent, and affordable housing for TANF-eligible families. A working group made up of representatives from the County, the Town of Chapel Hill, and other non-profit organizations has worked on this proposal. Orange County would like to target roughly 25 families who are participating in the TANF program at this time or who are TANF-eligible. Families who are earning up to 200% of the poverty level and work or participate in job training or other work skill development activities for at least 20 hours a week are eligible for this funding. Out of the 25 families, 20 will receive rental assistance and five will receive homeownership assistance. This program will also provide education on various housing, financial, and career issues. She said that the Housing Department would be applying for the entire $500,000 and there would be a 50% matching grant from federal monies. There would be no requirement for County funding. Commissioner Brown spoke in support of this effort. A motion was made by Commissioner Halkiotis, seconded by Commissioner Carey to approve the submission of a funding proposal to the North Carolina TANF Housing Program without the need for County funding and authorize the Chair to sign a letter of support on behalf of the Board. Commissioner Jacobs asked Tara Fikes if she had thought about including Freedom House in this program. Tara Fikes said that Freedom House would be included in this program. VOTE: UNANIMOUS f. Woodgreen Subdivision - Decision The Board was to consider an application for preliminary plat approval for Woodgreen Subdivision, located at the intersection of Dimmocks Mill and Moorefields roads. However, this item was deleted. The developer requested additional time to review the concerns expressed by the Planning Board. g Creation of Construction and Demolition (C&D) Recycling Task Force The Board considered creating a task force to explore methods of recycling construction and demolition materials. Commissioner Brown feels that there are two distinct issues; economic issues and the manner in which a C&D facility would be operated. She would like to receive recommendations back from this task force on both issues, but she feels they are two very different things. She feels that the task force has too many elected people on it. Chair Gordon said that the County Commissioners could eliminate the representative from each municipal government and have the members of the Solid Waste Advisory Board serve on this task force. Commissioner Jacobs said that it could say, "Solid Waste Advisory Board members appointed by each municipal government." He asked for clarification from Commissioner Brown about the list for the task force. Commissioner Brown said that she would like to see two distinct groups. Commissioner Jacobs feels that this committee needs two County Commissioners. He volunteered to serve and asked Commissioner Brown to also serve on this committee. The two Commissioners could look at the charge and make changes if needed. He suggested including a representative from the University. He said that the Chapel Hill Solid Waste staff does not know what the University does with its C&D waste. Chair Gordon suggested that the proposed charge, composition of the task force and timeline be clarified and brought back for Board approval. A motion was made by Commissioner Carey, seconded by Commissioner Halkiotis to approve the concept of creating a Construction and Demolition Recycling Task Force, to appoint Commissioners Brown and Jacobs as representatives on the task force, and to bring back the charge and structure at the next meeting. VOTE: UNANIMOUS h. Corbin Downs The Board was to discuss recommendations regarding the proposed Corbin Downs development. However, this item was postponed to the October 19, 1999 meeting. John Link suggested that he share a draft of this report with the Town Manager for information purposes. The article will be attached with the information and a cover letter. 10. REPORTS a. Report on the Ban of Inhumane Animal Traps The Board heard a report on a possible ban of inhumane animal traps. Albert Kittrell said that in August the Animal Protection Society submitted for review by the Health Director and the Board of Health documentation banning inhumane animal traps. He said that the Board of Health supports the ban on inhumane animal traps. Dean Edwards, Associate Director of the APS, made this presentation. He said that leg-hold traps have been banned in 88 countries, five states in the U. S., and one county in North Carolina. He said that the primary concern of APS is that from two to 20 times the number of target species end up being caught in the leg-hold traps. These species include endangered species, non-target fur-bearers, domestic animals, pets and livestock, and humans. The trapping season is from December 1St through February 20th and there are only three people in Orange County who are licensed to trap, and the financial gains from trapping are minor. He said that APS is recommending that only humane traps be used. There is a provision in the proposed ordinance that would allow the Animal Control Director to allow the use of the present traps if the humane traps are unsuccessful. He said that there are ten local veterinarians who have joined the plea of the APS. Pictures of the inhumane trappings were distributed and are in the Permanent Agenda File in the Clerk's office. Dean Edwards presented Heather Talent, co-chair of the Leg Hold Campaign, who collected 1,117 signatures from Orange County, and 611signatures from people who live in adjacent areas proclaiming their support of banning inhumane traps. She said that these signatures were collected over a very short period of time. She emphasized that APS is not trying to stop trappings, they are only trying to ensure that trapping is done in a humane way. Dean Edwards said that the state Wildlife Commission has taken the stance that the decision on the ban of these inhumane traps should be left up to the individual counties. The Orange County Health Board has unanimously endorsed the leg hold ban and recommends the passage to the County Commissioners. Speakers Todd Menke, President of the North Carolina Trappers Association, said that anyone who purchases a trapping license in the state of North Carolina would be allowed to trap in Orange County. He said that Dean Edwards' comment that there are only three legally licensed trappers in Orange County was incorrect. He said that there was no data to support the comments made against the traps. He requested that the Board remove this item and let the professionals at the North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission handle this issue. He requested a copy of the APS proposal so he could respond at the next meeting. He said that all the information presented tonight was false. He asked the Board to not make their decision on emotions but on facts that will be presented later. Gilbert Petty said that any landowner could trap without a license on their own land. He said that the leg- hold trap and the conibear trap are not inhumane. He feels that the County Commissioners should let the North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission handle this decision. Perry Sumner, Fur-Bearer Project Leader with the North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission, made comments. He said that he hoped to see both sides of this issue. He said that trapping is the most regulated activity that sportsmen are allowed to do today. He said that the injuries caused by leg-hold traps are minimal. He said that there are no counties that have ordinances against trapping or any type of traps. He made reference to the report and said that some of the information is partially true but some of his comments in the report were taken out of context. Commissioner Halkiotis made reference to the charts that Perry Sumner provided and asked why fur prices decreased in 1995. Perry Sumner said that fur prices decreased overall in 1995. Commissioner Brown asked how many licensed trappers were in North Carolina. Mr. Sumner said that it varies from year to year. At this time, there are approximately 1,100 licensed trappers in North Carolina. Lamar Chapman spoke on behalf of the trappers. He feels that to do away with these traps would be to do away with part of Hillsborough's heritage. John Link asked Perry Sumner to speak with County Attorney Geoff Gledhill about the statutes and the relationship the state has in making local laws about trapping. The Board agreed by consensus to have the staff come back with information about trapping in Orange County and also information on some humane ways to trap. b. Orange County Health Choice Report The Board was to receive an update on the County's progress in the North Carolina Health Choice Program. However, this item was postponed to the next meeting. C. Orange County Fair Housing Plan The Board was to receive a draft Fair Housing Plan and consider establishing an official public comment period of Oct. 11-22, 1999. However, they decided that they would consider the comments received during the comment period and also receive the report at their first meeting in November. 11. APPOINTMENTS - NONE 12. MINUTES- NONE 13. CLOSED SESSION - NONE 14. ADJOURNMENT A motion was made by Commissioner Halkiotis, seconded by Chair Gordon to adjourn the meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 10:55 p.m. The next regular meeting will be held on October 12, 1999 at 7:30 p.m. at the Government Services Center in Hillsborough, North Carolina. VOTE: UNANIMOUS Alice M. Gordon, Chair Beverly A. Blythe, Clerk