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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - 20060504 APPROVED 8/22/2006 MINUTES ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING May 4, 2006 7:30 p.m. The Orange County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Thursday, May 4, 2006 at 7:30 p.m. in the F. Gordon Battle Courtroom in Hillsborough, North Carolina. COUNTY COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Chair Barry Jacobs and Commissioners Moses Carey, Jr., Valerie P. Foushee, Alice M. Gordon, and Stephen Halkiotis COUNTY ATTORNEYS PRESENT: Geoffrey Gledhill COUNTY STAFF PRESENT: County Manager John M. Link, Jr., Assistant County Managers Rod Visser and Gwen Hanley, and Clerk to the Board Donna S. Baker (All other staff members will be identified appropriately below} NOTE: ALL DOCUMENTS REFERRED TO IN THESE MINUTES ARE IN THE PERMANENT AGENDA FILE IN THE CLERK'S OFFICE. ALL RECORDINGS OF THE MEETING WILL BE KEPT FOR 5 YEARS. 1. Additions or Chanaes to the Aaenda This portion was not recorded because of technical difficulties (the tape was also blank). PUBLIC CHARGE The Chair dispensed with the reading of the public charge. 2. Public Comments a. Matters not on the Printed Aaenda Sandy Peterson is president of Friends of the Orange County Public Library. She thanked the Board for hearing the needs regarding the new library and forming the library task forces of 2000 and 2004. She said that the Library Task Force Report recommended the Central Orange Library of 48,000 square feet. She said that the supporters of the Orange County Library feel strongly that a facility that is designed specifically for public library use is the more important matter at hand rather than the size. She said that the existing library is too small and does not adequately meet the needs of the community, and today the need for a new facility is urgent. There is an immediate need for a new headquartered library facility for Orange County that also serves as a central library providing in-depth reference resources, specialized genealogical services, programming for all ages, as well as general public library services. She said that the Orange County library has only 30°r6 of the State recommended space. She said that the current facility is an embarrassment to a progressive leader in cultural and educational affairs such as Orange County. In addition to quality schools, an adequate library facility in central Orange would be a great asset. She thanked the County Commissioners for having the foresight to begin the process of evaluating library services. b. Matters on the Printed Agenda {These matters were considered when the Board addressed those items on the agenda below.) 3. Board Comments Commissioner Carey congratulated Chair Jacobs and Commissioner Gordon on their re- election on Tuesday. He said that he sees the Visitor's Bureau Director here tonight and he asked her to come forward to speak to her presentation about a study. Laurie Paolicelli, Director of the Chapel HilltOrange County Visitor's Bureau, said that they completed an exciting study. The goal was to take the opinion out of it and learn what is motivating visitors here and find out haw the Visitor's Bureau could increase the share of the tourism. She said that they learned from the study that 49% of total visitors come to Orange County for the University. People come here for the "soul" of Orange County, which is that they like to rejuvenate by coming here and they get to be themselves, unwind, eat, etc. She said that 90°~ of the people they surveyed were familiar with the name Chapel Hill and almost 70% were familiar with the name Hillsborough. In terms of Hillsborough, they loved the friendliness and they loved the shopping. Commissioner Carey said that the Healthy Carolinians have embarked on a new campaign to address obesity, especially in children. Eat Smart, Move More is the name of the program. The cost of obesity results in $9.7 billion in expense to the State. Commissioner Halkiotis said that last Friday was one of the most significant days in his 20 years on this Board. It started with dedication of the new Orange Enterprises facility and to see how over 100 physically and mentally challenged people are finding meaningful employment in Orange County. He said that this was a wonderful celebration of life and opportunity. This is a classic example of how the Board of County Commissioners cares for all of its citizens. The second part of the day was the Efland Cheeks Park Phase II dedication. He said that there were hundreds of people there and it was amazing. Commissioner Gordon, Commissioner Foushee, and Chair Jacobs were also there. He said that it has taken them 20 years to complete this park. He expressed thanks to Lori Taft and her department for putting this on. Commissioner Halkiotis said that he promised tonight that he would mention an 86-year old woman's name during this meeting, because she wanted him to tell the County Commissioners how much she enjoys watching the County Commissioners' meetings. Her name is Mrs. Ivory T. Vincent, and she is the mother of Jackie Shelton Green. Commissioner Halkiotis said that it is important for the County Commissioners to serve on different boards. He wants to make sure that there is a clear understanding in County government that all of the departments need to talk amongst themselves when they try to improve the lives of all citizens in the County. There needs to be a County clearinghouse. He said that at a recent meeting of the Friends of the Central Orange Senior Center, they had voted to give $350 to the County to print up a medical information card. The seniors were going to do this, but he found out that the Sheriff had been sending out the refrigerator card with the same kind of information. Then he found out that the late EMS Director Nick Waters had worked with Wal-Mart to do a pill battle with medical information called a Vial of Life. He said that all departments should be working together to make sure that the County is doing everything possible to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of all citizens. He said that it does not matter which department is gets credit. The medical information cards should include many departments' input and should be in several languages. He hopes that they do not make any budgetary decisions that impact budgets in departments where the department head has to turn to their boards and commissions to raise money. He does not think they should ask people like the seniors to pay for things for which the County should be paying. Commissioner Halkiotis said that the fund balance information was received from OCS and CHCCS and he would like to know the process of how the school boards handle their fund balances. Commissioner Foushee said that in CHCCS it is a recommendation from the Superintendent to the school board. Commissioner Halkiotis would like to know what both systems had for a fund balance from March-May and if any of the fund balances have been spent down. He is still troubled with the request from OCS for $2.3 million for Gravelly Hill Middle School startup costs. He finds this upsetting because he does not know haw they are going to pay for this. He wants to see complete openness in this process. Commissioner Foushee extended congratulations to the County Commissioner candidates. Commissioner Foushee said that she and Chair Jacobs attended the Leadership Advisory Committee meeting for Carolina North today. They were still resolving process issues, but she wants to make sure everyone knaves that the meetings are recorded to be shown at a later time. There is time allotted during the meetings to make public comment. The next meeting is June 1St at 4:00 p.m. at the Kenan-Flagler School of Business. Commissioner Gordon thanked the voters for nominating her for the Board of County Commissioners. Commissioner Gordon said that they talked about a fair funding work group at the joint school board meeting and this meeting is not finalized yet. She thinks that it would be a good idea for the County Commissioners on the task force to have a more formal role in the meetings and setting up the meetings. She asked far permission of the Board to have she and Commissioner Foushee designated as Co-Chairs of the task force so that they can be involved in setting up the meetings and preparing the agenda packets. She also wants to ask the Dispute Settlement Center to help facilitate the meetings. There will only be two meetings. Commissioner Carey asked about the work group and the product of the meetings, since he was absent from the meeting where it was discussed. Commissioner Gordon explained it. The idea is whether any progress toward fair funding can be accomplished with this budget cycle. There will be three members from each school board and two from the County Commissioners. John Link said that it would be helpful if the Board talked about the expectations of staff. He is struggling to determine what this group would do. He said that there is only one source of revenue to address this -the property tax. He said that he has had personal reservations about this from the beginning. Chair Jacobs said that they did ask about what statutory limitations there were for nursing positions, if they could be reapportioned to other functions, and to investigate further the issue of social workers. He thinks that it is more a question of the two County Commissioners identifying materials that they consider germane. Commissioner Gordon said that they are not promising anything out of the work group except to explore and try to have resolution. Chair Jacobs said that he wants to make it clear that this group is short term. Commissioner Gordon said that the Homestead Road Safety Task Force met on April 6t" and DOT representatives were there. Karen Lincoln has provided a report and completion of the project is scheduled for August 24t". There are other issues such as paved shoulders for the bikeway, but this is good news. Commissioner Gordon said that they are having a celebration for the Northern Human Services Center walking track on May 31St at 5:30 p.m. Commissioner Gordan said that the Durham-Chapel Hill- Carrboro Transportation Advisory Committee is going to meet next Wednesday and they decided, upon recommendation from The Commission for the Environment, to consider that the Motor Emission Budget for this area should be county by county. She said that she would vote how the Board of Commissioners has instructed her to vote. Chair Jacobs congratulated Commissioner Gordon and former Mayor Mike Nelson for being nominated. He also congratulated the other candidates for their public spirit and efforts and he thanked all of the people that supported him and voted for him. He hopes to see many thousands of sunflowers growing this year because he handed them out at the polls. He thanked his wife, his campaign manager, and his sign poster. Chair Jacobs also congratulated the four people elected to the Orange County School Board -Susan Hallman, Debbie Piscitelli, Anne Medenblik, and Ted Triebel. Chair Jacobs reviewed the many events that have taken place. There was the 50tH anniversary of Cameron Park Elementary School in Hillsborough. He found out that a proclamation was never passed from the County Commissioners honoring the school for 50 years. He has asked staff to put something together before the end of school. Chair Jacobs said that four of the County Commissioners attended a dedication of the crosswalk on Homestead Road for the seniors. It was a result of the efforts of a group of seniors working with the Health Department and Triangle J. DOT put in the crosswalk that goes to Homestead Park. He said that NCDOT Division Engineer Mike Mills said that he would look into whether there was some money to address the gap in the sidewalks on the County's property. Chair Jacobs also attended a meeting with Chapel Hill representatives about the aquatic center, for which Orange County has provided $4.2 million dollars. Chapel Hill and Carrboro have both said that it is their highest recreational priority. Chapel Hill will now put in an additional $700,000 because of construction cost increases. This makes Chapel Hill's contribution $2 million. Carrboro will be asked to contribute $75,000. Chair Jacobs said that he and Commissioner Halkiotis met with a representative from The People's Channel to talk about the broadcasts trying to make them more viewer friendly and more accessible so that the agenda items can be seen. Chair Jacobs said that he and Commissioner Halkiotis also met with staff and the manager of the Sportsplex to talk about the interaction between the senior center and the Sportsplex in terms of using the equipment, facilities, etc. This was a very productive meeting. The manager is very interested in working with the senior center. They talked about food offerings and the Sportsplex is going to start serving healthier foods and try to purchase locally. Chair Jacobs said that last year Orange Enterprises served 350 people approximately, and already through April it has served 265 disabled people and has created additional new jobs, which is part of why it is considered an economic development opportunity. It is now doing courier service for Orange County and talking to the Public Works department about doing some cleaning. Chair Jacobs thanked the Recreation and Parks department for the event at Efland Cheeks Park and for putting on the Cool Jazz Festival again. He suggested getting some of the Chapel Hill school bands as well as the Orange County school bands in order to have more of a countywide event. Chair Jacobs made reference to the opening of the park at Efland and said that it was like the quintessential American park with people of all ages and races, kids playing on the playground, and kids playing baseball under the lights. Chair Jacobs said that he and Commissioner Carey participated in an event with Leadership Triangle and they used the Little River Park. They work to teach people leadership skills and about working collaboratively across jurisdictional borders. He said that there have been 32,000 visitors to what some people thought was going to be a remote location. When he was there, the parking lot was full on a Wednesday afternoon at 2:00. Chair Jacobs said that he has asked to look at the follow-up actions. He said that there are a number of items that need to be completed going back to January and February. He asked the Manager to look at the list to find out why the items have not been done. 4. County Manager's Report John Link asked about Commissioner Halkiotis' request far additional information on the fund balance status of each school board. He asked if this was something the entire Board would like to pursue, and if so, he would like to tell the school boards that the Board of County Commissioners is interested in this information. The Board agreed. 5. Items far Decision--Consent Agenda A motion was made by Commissioner Foushee, seconded by Commissioner Halkiotis to approve those items on the consent agenda as stated below: John Link read the consent agenda. a. Minutes The Board approved the minutes from February 23, 2006 Joint Meeting with the Town of Chapel Hill and March 23, March 30, and April 10, 2006 Manager Search Process meetings, as submitted by the Clerk to the Board. b. Appointments 1) Alcoholic Beverage Control Board -Reappointments The Board reappointed Thomas Heffner to a second full term and Passion Jones to a first full term, to the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board. Both terms will expire June 30, 2009. 2) Board of Health -Reappointments The Board reappointed Matthew Vizithum to a second full term and Sharon Freeland to a first full term to the Board of Health. Both terms will expire June 30, 2009. c. Interlocal Agreement between County and Towns on Taxation Collection The Board approved an updated Interlocal Agreement between Orange County and the Towns of Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Hillsborough with regard to tax and revenue collection endeavors on their behalf, subject to final approval by staff and the County Attorney. d. Child Support Attorney Contract The Board approved a contract with Coleman, Gledhill, Hargrave, and Peek to provide legal representation for the Child Support Office and authorized the Chair to sign. e. Cost Allocation Plan Contract The Board approved a contract with MAXIMUS, INC. for the preparation of the County's Cost Allocation Plan and authorized the Chair to sign. f. Housing Rehabilitation Contract Awards The Board awarded two housing rehabilitation contracts far the County's CDBG Scattered Site Housing Rehabilitation Program to Triple J Construction Company and RGO Enterprises LLC. q; Budget Amendment #14 The Board approved budget ordinance and grant project ordinance amendments for fiscal year 2005-06 for Department on Aging, Emergency Management, Planning Department, Non- Departmental-Critical Needs Reserve, and the Health Department. h. Buckhorn Road EDDlGravelly Hill Water(Sewer Praiect -Relocating Mebtel Telephone Service Lines from WaterlSewer Path This item was removed and placed at the end of the consent agenda for separate consideration. i. Child Day Care Facilities Zoning Text Amendments The Board closed the public hearing and approved the attached ordinance consistent with the Planning Board recommendation. L Change in BOCC Regular Meeting Schedule The Board amended its regular meeting calendar by moving the September 7, 2006 meeting to September 12, 2006 at the F. Gordon Battle Courtroom and moving the September 12, 2006 Work Session to September 14, 2006 at the Government Services Center. k. Resolution Authorizing Installment Financing Contract for Equipment Purchases The Board adopted a resolution, which is incorporated by reference, required by SunTrust Bank to facilitate the financing of equipment approved for purchase by the Board in April 2006 and authorized the Finance Director and County Attorney to execute appropriate documents. VOTE ON CONSENT AGENDA: UNANIMOUS ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT AGENDA: h. Buckhorn Raad EDDlGravelly Hill WaterlSewer Project -Relocating Mebtel Telephone Service Lines from WaterlSewer Path The Board considered approving a contract with Mebtel Communications for relocating existing telephone lines along the north side of West Ten Road to prevent interference with the construction of the County's Buckhorn Raad EDD/Gravelly Hill Water/Sewer project. Commissioner Halkiotis said that he was concerned last week when one or two OCS board members said that Orange County was spending less on the school systems than in the past. He said that this item is another example of the Orange County Board of Commissioners coming to the rescue just to get the infrastructure of a school in place. He said that it is important to note that Mebtel is going to charge Orange County government $36,830 to relocate these lines in the ground from one side of the road to the other. He thinks that it is important to note that the Manager, the staff, and the County Commissioners have risen to the challenge - $1.5 million for water and sewer, $36,830 for the phone lines, $60,000 for relocating the Duke Power lines, and $3.5 million for budget overrun for construction increases. He said that if you add the other $6.8 million for forgiving the debt for Cedar Ridge High School, in the last 14 months, Orange Caunty has put out $12 million to OCS. He said that this is significant. A motion was made by Commissioner Halkiotis, seconded by Commissioner Carey to approve a contract to have Mebtel Communications relocate the telephone lines along the north shoulder of West Ten Road, subject to final review by staff and the County Attorney, and authorize the Chair to sign the contract. Commissioner Carey said that he did not hear this comment from OCS that the County is slipping on the funding, since he was not at the joint school board meeting. He said that they talk about the percentage of the budget that goes to schools, but there is a fallacy in it because people begin to think of that as an entitlement. He said that they might need to rethink this process and do more for the Caunty buildings. This does not mean that the schools are getting less; it means that the whole budget is going up. Chair Jacobs said that when the actual spending takes place, the schools get more than 50°~ of the budget, because they spend it all and the County does not spend all that it allocates to itself. Commissioner Carey said that this is a problem and people remind him that there are more seniors in the County then there are students. Chair Jacobs pointed out that the opening statement from the OCS board was that in the next ten years, the CHCCS would need three new schools and OCS would not need any, so they should not support any new bonds. VOTE: UNANIMOUS 6. Resolutions or Proclamations a. Older Americans Month and Senior Center Week The Board considered joining federal and state governments in designating the month of May as Older Americans Month, a time to honor older citizens for their contributions to society; and also to designate the week of May 14 through May 20 as Senior Center Week in Orange County to recognize local senior centers as focal points for providing opportunities and services to older citizens and authorizing the Chair to sign. Department on Aging Director Jerry Passmore introduced Advisory Board on Aging Chair Jack Chestnut and Vice-Chair Jan Wassel. Jan Wassel read the proclamation. A motion was made by Commissioner Halkiotis, seconded by Commissioner Carey to approve designating the month of May as Older Americans Month, a time to honor older citizens for their contributions to society, and authorize the chair to sign. PROCLAMATION OLDER AMERICANS MONTH WHEREAS, According to the latest population figures, there are more than 18,000 persons over 60 years of age in Orange County in 2006 and growing faster than any population sector; and, WHEREAS, The President of the United States and the Governor of North Carolina have declared May as Older Americans Month; and, WHEREAS, Orange County is proud of the older adults who live here and wishes to show appreciation for what they contribute to their County, State and Nation; and, WHEREAS, All Orange County residents enjoy the results of countless hours of volunteer services provided by older area residents and the wisdom that comes with their years of experience, making Orange County a great place in which to live; and, WHEREAS, The theme far Older Americans Month is "Choices of Independence" to recognize older Americans who are living longer, healthier, and more productive lives and the need to have choices for living independently for as long as possible; and, WHEREAS, Orange County also wishes to set aside a special month for recognition of the older segment of its citizenry; NOW, THEREFORE, We, the Orange County Board of Commissioners, join the Governor of North Carolina and the President of the United States in PROCLAIMING May, 2006 as OLDER AMERICANS MONTH AND, further, do encourage all residents to join us in honoring our older Americans. VOTE: UNANIMOUS Jack Chestnut pointed out that the theme of Older Americans Month is "Choices of Independence", which is to recognize older Americans that are living longer, healthier, and productive lives and they need to have choices for living independently as long as possible. He said that this is a very critical part of this proclamation, to help seniors stay independent as long as possible. Jerry Passmore introduced Helen Miller, President of the Friends of the Central Orange Senior Center, and Janice Tyler, a senior center administrator. Janice Tyler read the proclamation. A motion was made by Commissioner Carey, seconded by Commissioner Halkiotis to designate the week of May 14 through May 20 as Senior Center Week in Orange County to recognize local senior centers as focal points for providing opportunities and services to older citizens and authorize the Chair to sign. PROCLAMATION SENIOR CENTER WEEK WHEREAS, Local communities support aver 15,000 Senior Centers across the United States, serving close to 10 million older adults annually; and WHEREAS, Orange County has recognized the importance of Senior Centers and has provided leadership in the development and operations of such facilities in the County through its Department on Aging; and, WHEREAS, Senior Centers affirm the dignity, self-worth and independence of older persons by facilitating their decisions and knowledge, and enabling their continued contribution to the community; and, WHEREAS, Encouraged and supported by the Older Americans Act, Senior Centers function as service delivery focal points, help older persons to help themselves and each other, and offer opportunities to became physically active, mentally challenged, emotionally supported and socially involved; and, WHEREAS, The month of May has historically been proclaimed Older Americans Month, and communities across the country are giving special recognition to older persons and the role of Senior Centers in serving them; and, WHEREAS, This year's Senior Center Week theme is "Senior Centers: Our Community Investment"; NOW, THEREFORE, We, the Orange County Board of Commissioners, do hereby PROCLAIM the week of May 14 through May 20, 2006 as SENIOR CENTER WEEK AND, further, do call upon the people of Orange County to honor older Americans and the Senior Centers that bring together activities and services to their benefit. VOTE: UNANIMOUS Helen Miller invited the County Commissioners to their annual meeting an May 12th from 10-11:00 a.m. at the Central Orange Senior Center. b. National Tourism Week The Board considered a proclamation recognizing the week of May 13 through 21, 2006 as National Tourism Week in Orange County and authorizing the Chair to sign. Patti Griffin, Communications Manager for Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitor's Bureau, thanked the Board for designating this week as National Tourism Week. She said that this week is used to increase awareness of the tremendous economic impact of tourism on Orange County. They also want to encourage citizens to be tourists in their own backyard and to explore all of the great attractions. They have planned a radio promotion with WCHL 1360 AM radio in Chapel Hill, there will be a tourism tribute contest throughout the week, and there will be interviews with the tourism officials. She read the proclamation. A motion was made by Commissioner Carey, seconded by Commissioner Halkiatis to approve a proclamation recognizing the week of May 13 through 21, 2006 as National Tourism Week in Orange County and authorize the Chair to sign. NATIONAL TOURISM WEEK PROCLAMATION May 13-21, 2006 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 generated an economic impact of $119.5 million - an increase of 3.7 percent over the previous year's figures -ranking the county 23rd in travel impact among North Carolina's 100 counties in 2004; and WHEREAS, state and local tax revenues from travel to Orange County amounted to $9.55 million in 2004, representing a $79 tax saving to each County resident; and WHEREAS, more than 1,690 jabs in Orange County were directly attributable to travel and tourism in 2004; and WHEREAS, travel generated a $26.2 million payroll in 2004; and WHEREAS, our area attractions, welcome centers and tours hosted more than 1.34 million visitors in 2005; and WHEREAS, people throughout the towns, state, country and world become more aware of the outstanding cultural, historical, and recreational resources available in Orange County; and WHEREAS, given that the travel and tourism industry is vital to our economic stability and growth and contributes substantially to Orange County's cultural and social well being, it is fitting that we recognize the efforts of the Chapel HilUOrange County Visitors Bureau and the importance of travel and tourism; NOW THEREFORE, we, the Orange County Board of Commissioners, in recognition of the unique significance of the travel and tourism industry in the lives of Orange County residents, do hereby proclaim May 13 - 21, 2006 as NATIONAL TOURISM WEEK in Orange County, and we recognize that Tourism Works in our County. This the 4th day of May 2006. VOTE: UNANIMOUS c. Drinking Water Week & OWASA Taste of Hope Program The Board considered a proclamation recognizing May 7 through May 13, 2006 as Drinking Water Week in Orange County and encouraging participation in the Orange Water and Sewer Authority's (OWASA's) "Taste of Hope" Customer Assistance Program and authorizing the Chair to sign. Greg Feller said that this proclamation was written before the OWASA Board declared the water advisory last week, but it is timely. He said that their lakes are over 90°~ full, but the average daily stream flows to the reservoirs are only half of what they were in the drought of 2002. They are concerned that they need to be preparing for the possibility of another drought. They will be informing their customers through the newsletter about the year-round water conservation restrictions. Greg Feller made reference to the Taste of Hope Program and said that any OWASA customer can have his or her monthly bill automatically rounded up to the nearest dollar to go to the Inter-Faith Council to help families that are unable to pay their bills. This program generates over $6,000 a year. Commissioner Gordon emphasized that the County Commissioners are considering a water resources initiative, which was approved in principle last year. This budget cycle the County Commissioners will be considering a position to implement this program. She asked staff to get a copy of this initiative to OWASA. Commissioner Halkiotis commended OWASA for continuing the restrictions even though the water levels have improved. Commissioner Carey asked about the Taste of Hope Program and how customers could get involved and it was answered that there is information on the monthly bills and customers could call the customer service number at 537-4343 or go to the website and sign up online. Chair Jacobs said that the County Commissioners passed the water resources initiative in principle last year and encouraged the staff to find funding partners. He commended this again to the OWASA board to help the County fund this position. A motion was made by Commissioner Foushee, seconded by Commissioner Halkiotis to approve a proclamation recognizing May 7 through May 13, 2006 as Drinking Water Week in Orange County and encourage participation in the Orange Water and Sewer Authority's (OWASA's} "Taste of Hope" Customer Assistance Program and authorize the Chair to sign. PROCLAMATION DRINKING WATER WEEK IN ORANGE COUNTY and OWASA'S TASTE OF HOPE CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE PROGRAM WHEREAS, water is a fundamental need of all people; and WHEREAS, an adequate supply of safe water is a crucial part of the public health and quality of life in Orange County; and WHEREAS, the Orange Water and Sewer Authority (OWASA), Town of Hillsborough, Orange-Alamance Water System, Graham-Mebane Water System and Orange County work to serve Orange County residents with a safe, dependable quality and quantity of water now and for the future; and WHEREAS, the dedicated people serving the public at water and sewer utilities have made significant contributions in developing, operating and maintaining these systems; and WHEREAS, through the Taste of Hope Customer Assistance Program, OWASA customers can have their monthly bills automatically rounded up to the nearest dollar as a donation to help families in need; and WHEREAS, the Inter-Faith Council for Social Service uses Taste of Hope donations to temporarily help OWASA customers when they are unable to pay their water/sewer bills; NOW, THEREFORE, the Orange County Board of Commissioners does hereby proclaim the seventh through the thirteenth of May, two thousand and six as DRINKING WATER WEEK in Orange County and urges all residents to recognize the contributions and service of water and sewer utilities to our community. AND FURTHER, the Board of Commissioners encourages OWASA customers to contact OWASA for information at 537-4343 or by e-mail to webmasterCci?owasa.org for information on the Taste of Hope program, and to become Taste of Hope donors far pennies per month. This the fourth day of May, 20Q6. VOTE: UNANIMOUS 7. Special Presentations a. Master Aginq Plan Process Update and Priority Issues Approval The Board received an update on the Master Aging Planning progress and considered approval of the priority issues identified by the Master Aging Plan Task Force. President of Coral Woods Pat Sprigg made a PowerPaint presentation. Orange County Master Aging Plan:2006-10 Update Report: Priority Issues Presented by M.A.P. Steering Committee Co-chairs: Pat Sprigg & Florence Soltys Jerry Passmore, Project Manager May 4, 2006 MAP: It Goals ^Goal - To develop and implement a MasterAging Plan that provides a comprehensive and coordinated delivery of community services to older adults far the life span who have different levels of functional capacity. ^ Goal - Ta promote a senior friendly community as part of smart growth policy far all MAP: Its Goals ^ To develop acounty-wide plan That integrates the resources of the many community partners such as the United Way, Carol Woods, UNC Health Care, the Towns of Chapel Hill, Carrboro, Hillsborough, Mebane and all aspects of county government. "Goals are dreams with deadlines."- Diana Scharf-Hunt, Writer MAP: Its Mission ^ Mission - To maintain and improve independence, functionality and quality of life of older residents as long as possible. "Dreams in life may seem impossible. They are nat. Impossible dreams are achieved one goal at a time." -Herman Cain, Chairman of Godfather's Pizza Definitions of Aging and Planning ^ AGING - 60+ age group chosen (Boomers considered-First one turned 60 an 1/7/06) ^ PLANNING -the road map that takes you from mission of today to your vision of tomorrow. Elements: ^ County-wide ^ Strategic plan - 2006-2070 "What would you attempt to do if you knew you could not fail ?"- Robert Schuller Functional Level Framework Key Planning Components ^ MAP Update Planning for 2006-2010 approved by BOCC -June 23, 2005 ^ Planning Process approved by BOCC -Oct. 18, 2005 With oversight by the MAP Steering Committee With Planning Work (issues, goals, objectives) by Functional Work groups ^ MAP Plan to be endorsed by elected Town officials, United Way and public -- 2006 ^ MAP Plan:2006-1Q to be BOCC adopted Ocf., 2006 ^ MAP Plan monitored and updated by Advisory Board on Aging and Dept. on Aging far BOCC Through 20 ~ 0 Where we are to this paint Kick off/Orientation Event held -Dec. 1, 2005 Dec. -Feb. 2006 Task Force Groups met to: . Review past MAP Accomplishments/unmet objectives . Identify issues by functional groups & general pop. . Review updated profile of older adults . Consider elements of asenior-friendly community March -April 2006 Task Force met to complete the identification & prioritization of issues Tap Issues: Well-Fit Group ^ Home-based Community Services ^ Community assessments/Outcome Eval. ^ Driver safety (educ.lroad conditions) ^ Accessible & Affordable Healthcare (oral also) ^ Greater budget appropriations for the needs of a growing older population Top Issues: Moderately Impairedl Disabled Group ^ Lack of Mental Health Treatment ^ Isolation and Loneliness (3 ~ % of 65+ live alone) ^ Lack of Case/care Management services ^ Lack of Collaboration with faith communities ^ Increasing Dementia (with older pop.) Tap Issues: Severely Impairedl Institutionalized Group ^ Quality of Life and Care ^ Caregiver Support/Work Force ^ Education/Outreach ^ Person-directed care Broad Issues: Senior Friendly Communities (New) ^ Steering Committee approved this issue as part of the updated MAP: Engage atl departments of Orange Co. Gov't. as well as the broader community in the process of improving the infrastructure and services to meet the needs of a growing moderately impaired older population, Braad Priarity Areas ^ Steering Committee and subcommittees identified four priority areas for 2006-10 ^ Housing ^ Transportation ^ InformationlAccess ^ Community Transitional Care Housing: Priority Issues ^ Affordable Housing for seniors ^ Property tax breaks to age in place ^ Support services in planned senior communities ^ Education/forums on "Now to age in place" ^ Revise regulations and other restrictions to allow for innovative approaches to aging in place Transpartatian: Priarity Issues ^ Expand Orange Public Transportation service level to equal to fhe Chapel Hill/Garrboro E-Z Rider ^ Expand Transportation to senior centers (operation hours and clients) ^ Review fare structure/route costs in order to serve all seniors ^ Identify/seek new sources of funding to support expansion of transportation InformationlAccess ^ Increase Marketing of aging services ^ Improve website information to seniors ^ Increase autreach information meetings ^ 1 ncrease newcomer information ^ Need for more specialized information access- job seeking and volunteering Community Transitional Care ^ Support creation of database (elderly health information) ^ Development of P, A, C, E. Program ^ Re-institute "Blue & Pink Sheet" for Hospital & Nursing Home transitions ^ Info resources to improve transitions ^ Implement DNNS Mental Health Reform recommendations ^ Expand adult day health services Future Plans and Meetings ^ May ~ ~, 2006 -Steering Committee Mtg to; (1) Hear subcommittee reports-on action plan on identified issues so far (2) Complete and clarify issues in the broad areas of concern ^ June, 2006 -Steering Committee Mtg to: (7) review draft MAP Action Plan far 2006-10 ^ August, 2006 Steering Committee Meeting to: (1) Recommend final MAP to BOCC ^ August-September, 2006 BOCC Meeting to: (~) Approve final MAP Action Plan for input from public and community partners (Towns, United WayJ ^ Sept.- Oct., 2006 Community input meetings ^ Oct,, 2006 - BOCC consider input and approval of the MAP Action Plan for 2006-2010 BOCC Request Input and Approval ^ Priority Issues of functional groups ^ Broad Areas of Concernlidentified issues ^ Next step: Action Planning (who, what, where, when, how, at what cast) Commissioner Gordon said that she and Chair Jacobs serve on this group and she supports the recommendations. She underscored the senior-friendly communities and said that a senior-friendly community is also a community that is friendly to all ages, including mothers with strollers, etc. Implementing this plan will help everyone. Commissioner Foushee asked about objective 63, the property tax policies, and said that this was an issue that was raised during the campaign. She asked if they could get more information from staff on other options that may be available. John Link said that they will do that and he said that some counties have developed their own programs with guidelines, and it is not connected to the State laws. A county can develop this type of program if it wants to fund it. Commissioner Carey wants to see what other states are doing. He would be interested even if it takes some legislation. Commissioner Gordon said that she thinks they need to do more than look at this proposal for tax assistance far seniors. We should instruct staff to come back with an outline in the next couple of weeks of what they would need to do to see if this is feasible. She wants an outline of the pros and cons before they go on break for the summer. Commissioner Halkiotis made reference to the meeting with the Affordable Housing Advisory Board and said that one of the members who lives in affordable housing was visited by her parents, and they had trouble getting up and down the stairs. He asked haw the MAP would fit in with working with developers to look at units that are one level. Pat 5prigg said they have been talking about the aging in place concept in their committees. This speaks to all ages of disability and trying to get developers and architects to develop better aging in place prototypes for affordable housing. Commissioner Carey said that they should not instruct staff to come back with pros and cons about the tax issue yet because not enough is known at this point. He is an advocate for seniors and they have a tremendous resource in this committee. He suggested relying on the expertise of their seniors. He said that they just asked staff to work on fair funding issues and he does not want to lay more on staff during the budget season. Chair Jacobs agreed and said to defer this discussion until the legislative goals and finish with the MAP now. Chair Jacobs said that Pat Sprigg mentioned in passing the creation of a database for community transitional care and what is going on at UNC Hospitals and Florence Soltys said some very disturbing things about what is going on at UNC Hospitals. He would like a report from the Manager about some of these things that he has heard about: people being turned away, cuts in housekeeping and people sitting for hours in the ER because there are no clean rooms available, etc. He said that he would like for John Link to contact Florence Soltys and invite a UNC Hospital representative and maybe after the budget process, discuss this issue. Chair Jacobs said that he attended the opening at Ashbury, a 600-unit development next to Mebane Lumber, and they have 160 units for fit seniors to purchase. He wants to engage this development in the senior community. The housing is supposed to be handicapped accessible right from the start. He wants to engage this developer as soon as possible. A motion was made by Commissioner Gordon, seconded by Chair Jacobs to approve the identified priority issues, bath from the subcommittees and steering committee. VOTE: UNANIMOUS 8. Public Hearings a. Additional Items for Orange County's 2Q06 Legislative Agenda The Board continued a public hearing from the Board's April 18, 2006 regular meeting for discussion of items for inclusion in Orange County's legislative agenda package for the 2006 North Carolina General Assembly Session and considered approval of resolutions and any additional materials for presentation to Orange County's legislative delegation and the leadership of the North Carolina General Assembly. Chair Jacobs made reference to investigating opportunities to reduce or otherwise defer the tax burden on seniors. Commissioner Gordon is talking about extending it to everyone of low income. He would like to add a deferment of taxes that would be a lien against the mortgage. This would involve a change in state law and he would like to investigate this proposal that came from Wake County. He suggested that staff came back in September with a report and Commissioner Carey said to put this out to seniors for their input. Commissioner Halkiatis said that Commissioner Cordon's suggestion is a good one but a long-range goal. Commissioner Gordon said that she wanted staff to first bring back an outline for the feasibility of it and not a full report until the Commissioners look at this outline. Chair Jacobs suggested deferring to the Legislative Goals Committee and they will try and meet with staff before the break, solicit proposals from all County Commissioners, and meet with staff and try to have something back before the break. Commissioner Gordon suggested having the County Commissioners write in their thoughts and putting it on another agenda. Chair Jacobs said that he would defer this to the Legislative Goals Committee and Greg Wilder and Geof Gledhill will work on this with him and Commissioner Halkiotis. John Link said that Jerry Passmore, his staff, and John Smith may already have information about this topic and he will solicit this information. Resolution Endorsing Transportation Funding Initiatives Consistent with the State of North Carolina's Blue Ribbon Commission on Urban Mobility: Commissioner Gordon said that this is a joint MPO Transportation Funding Initiatives Task Force. Chair Jacobs said that when they looked at this at the legislative goals meeting they had some problems with it. Commissioner Gordon said that this is what the two MPOs agreed upon. She read the Unified Position on Transportation on page 5. Commissioner Halkiatis said that he is opposed to toll roads and he has a problem supporting something that endorses toll roads. Commissioner Gordon said we could take off the tall roads item. Chair Jacobs made reference to #3 on page 5 and said that the County Commissioners already stated in their set of principles that there should be more revenue options available to local governments. He said that this was repetitious in a way. He also has questions about the equity formula and the Board has never discussed it. He also knows that there are rural counties in the State that feel that they are being discriminated against in the equity formula. He would not support the discussion of the equity formula until the Board has more information. He understands the argument, but rural counties can make an equal argument. Commissioner Gordon said that she wished she had known their objections before tonight so she could have given a more complete response. She said that the DCHC MPO and the Capital Area MPO have approved these initiatives. She understands the apposition to toll roads, but the equity formula item is very general. Chair Jacobs asked for more information on these items. Commissioner Gordon said that the public hearing would have to be held open. Resolution Supporting Senate Bill 1030 -Electronics Recycling and Jab Creation: Geof Gledhill said that this bill provides for the creation of a privilege tax to fund electronics recycling efforts. A motion was made by Commissioner Halkiotis, seconded by Commissioner Carey to forward this resolution to Orange County's legislative delegation and the leadership of the North Carolina General Assembly. VOTE: UNANIMOUS Other: Commissioner Foushee said that atone of the school board forums, board member elecl Ted Treibel talked about dropout rates and that it might be in the County's best interest to join in with the State school board in supporting raising the mandatory attendance age from 16 to 18. Mr. Treibel requested in his discussion that the school boards and the Board of County Commissioners could partner in this effort. She would be willing to discuss it and bring it back at a later time. Commissioner Halkiotis agreed. Chair Jacobs suggested deferring it and soliciting input from the school boards. He asked Jahn Link about getting input from the Superintendents. The Board agreed. Commissioner Gordan went back to the first resolution and asked for clarification on the questions. Chair Jacobs asked about how the toll authority works and if they follow the same environmental standards and public process as every other part of the North Carolina Department of Transportation. Regarding #2 on page 5, Chair Jacobs wants to know what it means and the position of the NCACC on it regarding less prosperous counties. Commissioner Gordon said that they are trying to get a unified position across the Triangle in order to get mare transportation funding. If an entity like Orange County says no, it can splinter the initiative. Geof Gledhill said to make sure that the public hearing is left open. The public hearing will be open until the next regularly scheduled meeting on May 16tH 9. Items for Decision--Regular Agenda a. Consolidated Housing Plan Annual Update/HOME Program The Board considered adopting a resolution approving the 2006 Consolidation Hauling Plan Annual Update: the proposed HOME Program Activities for 2006-2007 and authorizing the Manager to implement the HOME Program as approved by the BOCC including the ability to execute agreements with partnering non-profit organizations after consultation with the County Attorney. Housing and Community Development Director Tara Fikes summarized this item. The Board held a public hearing an February 9t" regarding the update and proposed HOME program activities. After the hearing, the County received six applications from interested local nonprofit organizations, requesting $1,075,000. The HOME Program Review Committee reviewed the applications and prepared a HOME Program Design, which is in the resolution on page 3. She listed the projects as stated in the resolution. A motion was made by Commissioner Foushee, seconded by Commissioner Carey to adopt a resolution approving the 2006 Consolidation Housing Plan Annual Update: the proposed HOME Program Activities for 2006-2007 and to authorize the Manager to implement the HOME Program as approved by the BOCC including the ability to execute agreements with partnering non-profit organizations after consultation with the County Attorney. VOTE: UNANIMOUS b. Bid Award/Contract ApprovallCapital Project Approval: Water and Sanitary Sewer Extensions to Serve the Buckhorn Area The Board considered awarding a bid and approving a contract to extend water and sanitary sewer services to the Buckhorn Area, including the new Gravelly Hill Middle School, to J.F. Wilkerson Contracting, Morrisville, NC in an amount not to exceed $1,532,095; and to approve the associated capital project ordinance to budget for the construction contract. John Link said that this is a valid bid and within the funding available. Purchasing and Central Services Director Pam Jones said that they received four bids on April 18t" and there were three valid bids. The project engineer recommended acceptance of the low bid of the three from J. F. Wilkerson Construction out of Morrisville in the amount of $1,532,095. There is apre-construction meeting scheduled for Monday, May 8t", and they anticipate being able to issue a notice of receipt effective May 15t". If they do this, the project could be completely finished by the middle of October. They anticipate having the water line to the middle school by the middle of July, which will allow the contractors for the school to test the systems far the sprinklers, HVAC, plumbing, etc. and move forward with the building. They also put in a premium pay for the contractors to give them a price per day that would be charged for expediting the project in order to get the school open on time. The cast is $4,000 per day. After consulting with the OCS, this is not economically feasible, so it is not part of the recommendation. She noted that this is a reconfigured project and they were able to pull the project apart and make it such that local funding was supported entirely. The next phase of the project, which is for the North BuckhornlCentral Efland area will come immediately following this after they have negotiated the right-of-way with the railroad and after the federal and state reviews are completed. Budget Director Donna Dean-Coffey said that the projected cost of this phase totals $1.9 million and they currently have $500,000 in third-party financing from the debt issuance just completed in April that is available for the project right now. Based an the bids, they will need an additional $1.4 million to complete this phase. Based an the direction from the Board in March, the staff developed a funding plan, which is in the package. It includes deferring some of the currently funded County projects of approximately $615,000. These projects include Carrboro Library, flooring replacements in County facilities, HVAC repairs and replacements, painting exterior and interior surfaces in County facilities, and roofing repairs and replacements and waterproofing County facilities. They would intend to reinstate funding in future years. In addition to the deferrals, the staff recommends using the $391,000 {to be reinstated later) that the Board deferred from the School Park Reserve Fund interest earnings to the general fund last June along with $394,000 in debt financing that would be planned for the next debt issuance in the fall of 2006. She does not anticipate that the additional financing would cause the County to exceed its 15°~ guideline far debt service. Commissioner Halkiotis asked about the plan far construction supervision far this project. County Engineer Paul Thames said that there is $100,000 for construction oversight and they think that it would be more like $25,000 and that he and his assistant would provide the supervision for 75% of the project. Commissioner Halkiotis said that it is important far the citizens to know this. Paul Thames said that the school will open up with 250 students, using single-service items in the cafeteria so that dishes will not have to be washed, and there will be reduced flow toilets and fixtures. They are proposing to take the septic tank pumpage to the Efland sewer system because it is nearby and it would cast less than taking it to OWASA. Chair Jacobs asked Donna Dean-Coffey about deferrals of County projects and he thought they discussed splitting the paving at the Whiffed Building and paving the part nearest to Social Services. Donna Dean-Coffey said that it is not in there but they can add it. There is $140,000 in that project now. There was aver $200,000 in that project before September, and it was cut to meet the approved funding for the CIP last year. Paul Thames said that they are trying to work some ADA compliance issues into the parking lat. The original design did not have this component. Chair Jacobs asked for this information before they borrow any money. A motion was made by Commissioner Carey, seconded by Commissioner Halkiotis to approve a contract to extend water and sanitary sewer services to the Buckhorn Area, including the new Gravelly Hill Middle School, to J.F. Wilkerson Contracting, Morrisville, NC in an amount not to exceed $1,532,095; authorize the Chair to sign the contract on behalf of the Board; and approve the associated capital project ordinance to budget for the construction contract. VOTE: UNANIMOUS c. Legal Advertisement for Quarterly Public Hearing -May 22, 2006 The Board considered the legal advertisement for items to be presented at the Joint Board of County CommissionerslPlanning Board Quarterly Public Hearing scheduled for May 22, 2006. Planning Director Craig Benedict said that there is only one formal public hearing item on the agenda and three informational items. The formal item is the report of the Efland/Mebane Small Area Plan Task Force. The zoning code says that when small area plans are done, it can eventually affect the land use plan and the zoning plan, and there must be a public hearing. They have been working through the task force with representatives from the County Commissioners, Mebane Town Council, and community representatives for about a year. On March 27t", they had a community meeting with 80 residents and received input from the community on several areas. They will be giving a full report on this issue on May 22"d The three non-public hearing items include the Orange County Comprehensive Plan Update Process, Update on Rural Enterprises Project (Agricultural Support Enterprises}, and Update on Transfer of Development Rights Feasibility Study. Commissioner Gordon asked to which zoning districts #2 would apply and Craig Benedict said that it would be primarily in Agriculture-Residential areas, but they might be working on a new type of zoning district that would accommodate the uses suggested. Geaf Gledhill said that it would be R1, AR, and RB and there is a range of uses. Commissioner Gordon asked about the uses and it was answered wineries, canneries, packaging plants, and others. Commissioner Gordon would like mare information an the uses. She added more language to the first paragraph under #2, as follows: Examples of agriculturally-related businesses are canneries, wineries, and packaging plants. The zoning districts to which these amendments could apply are Agricultural Residential, Rural Buffer, and Residential 1. A motion was made by Commissioner Gordon, seconded by Commissioner Halkiotis to approve the legal advertisement far items to be presented at the Joint Board of County CommissionerslPlanning Board Quarterly Public Hearing scheduled for May 22, 2006, with the additional language as presented by Commissioner Gordon. Chair Jacobs said that the residents along Buckhorn Road are in an EDD, but they want to remain residential. They need to work through how not to drive the residents off the property if they want to expand and also be realistic about how the area might change. Chair Jacobs said that they are going to get another letter from the Planning Board about what the County Commissioners want them to do on the Land Use Plan Update. He said that he is getting tired of this game. He said that when he gets this letter he wants to write a response and the Board agreed. He thinks that the Board has tried to be clear that it wants the Planning Board to take the lead in the process. VOTE: UNANIMOUS d. Possible Conservation Easements for Greene Tract The Board discussed matters related to the possible recording of conservation easements on portions of the Greene Tract to permanently protect those areas as open space. Environment and Resource Conservation Director Dave Stancil said that the Triangle Land Conservancy's Land Committee is willing to own a conservation easement on ajointly- held 86-acre portion, and they would like to see the 60 acres that the County holds protected either through the Lands Legacy Program ar through a second easement. Chair Jacobs asked about the pros and cons in having it through the Lands Legacy Program and Dave Stancil said that there would probably be an endowment request for the easements. Chair Jacobs asked if this was the triggering mechanism to begin the process of repayment. Rod Visser said that this is the default option because the Greene Tract Work Group made the recommendation and all three governing boards reviewed the resolution and affirmed it. This is the planned course of action. Rod Visser said that they have discussed the County Manager and the Town Managers getting together and bringing something back to the Assembly of Governments meeting in the fall on the payback period. A motion was made by Commissioner Carey, seconded by Commissioner Foushee to direct the Manager to coordinate with the Chapel Hill and Carrboro Town Managers to develop a proposed reimbursement schedule to the Solid Waste Enterprise Fun for discussion at the next Assembly of Governments meeting in September 2006. VOTE: UNANIMOUS e. Appointments 1) Board of Health -One New Appointment The Board was to consider making one new appointment to the Board of Health. DEFERRED f. Adoption of Resolutions Regarding the OPC Area Program The Board considered for adoption two resolutions drafted by OPC legal counsel, LeAnn Nease Brown, and approved and recommended by the OPC LMEIArea Board for adoption by the three Boards of County Commissioners. Chatham and Person county boards adopted the proposed resolutions in official meetings earlier this week. Commissioner Carey said that the OPC Board decided to write the Secretary a letter before the Secretary wrote this letter in the packet. The OPC Board decided to proceed with adoption of the attached resolutions. Person and Chatham Counties have already adopted the resolutions. He said that it is not all OPC's fault that there is financial difficulty, but some of it is a result of what the State has done in changing its rules and regulations back and forth and requiring OPC to pay back money for a plan that the State implemented four years ago. One of the resolutions makes it clear that they are tabling suspending the plan to move from the OPC Area Authority to an LME. The other resolution states what the counties are prepared to do this year to help OPC preserve the services to its clients and to provide stability for this fiscal year. He asked the Board to support the resolutions so that they can be attached to the letter that is going out tomorrow on behalf of the OPC Board of Directors. They are asking the Secretary to put her commitment in writing. Commissioner Halkiotis said that he would support this and he is pleased at their more aggressive stance on this. He said that it is a shame that it has come down to this. Chair Jacobs changed one word in the "Now, Therefore, Be it Resolved," section of the last page. He changed "their budget" to "its budget." A motion was made by Commissioner Carey, seconded by Commissioner Halkiotis to adopt the proposed resolutions and authorize the Chair to sign, with the change as suggested by Chair Jacobs. VOTE: UNANIMOUS 1 Q. Reports-NONE 11. Closed Session A motion was made by Commissioner Carey, seconded by Commissioner Halkiotis to go into closed session: "To discuss the County's position and to instruct the County Manager and County Attorney on the negotiating position regarding the terms of a contract to purchase real property, property acquisition for Buckhorn EDD/Gravelly Hill Water and Sewer project, owned by Orange County Investors Partnership, PIN 9834-56-1587," NCGS ; 143-318.11(x) (5). RECONVENED: A motion was made by Commissioner Halkiotis, seconded by Commissioner Carey to reconvene into regular session xt 10:55 p.m. VOTE: UNANIMOUS 12. Adjournment A motion was made by seconded by to adjourn the meeting at 10:55 p.m. VOTE: UNANIMOUS Barry Jacobs, Chair Donna S. Baker Clerk to the Board