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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - 20060919 APPROVED 11/14/2006 MINUTES ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING September 19, 2006 7:30 p.m. The Orange County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, September 19, 2006 at 7:30 p.m. at the Southern Human Services Center, in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. COUNTY COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Chair Barry Jacobs and Commissioners Moses Carey, Jr., Valerie P. Foushee, Alice M. Gordon, and Stephen Halkiotis COUNTY COMMISSIONERS ABSENT: COUNTY ATTORNEYS PRESENT: Geoffrey Gledhill COUNTY STAFF PRESENT: Interim County Manager Rod Visser, Assistant County Manager Gwen Harvey, and Clerk to the Board Donna S. Baker {All other staff members will be identified appropriately below) NOTE: ALL DOCUMENTS REFERRED TO IN THESE MINUTES ARE IN THE PERMANENT AGENDA FILE IN THE CLERK'S OFFICE. 1. Additions or Changes to the Agenda Chair Jacobs pointed out two new agenda abstract facesheets -items 5-i and 6-b. The Board agreed to add these two items. There were also PowerPoint presentations for items 7-a and 7-b. There was also a new sheet for item 5-b-3. There was a revised 9-b-2, a revised 9-b- 4, and a new page 5 for item 9-a. PUBLIC CHARGE The Chair dispensed with the reading of the public charge. 2. Public Comments a. Matters not on the Printed Agenda none b. Matters on the Printed Agenda {These matters were considered when the Board addressed that item on the agenda below.) 3. Board Comments Commissioner Gordon said that TTA is having the Smart Commute Challenge through September 30t". To sign up, citizens should go to www.smartcommutechallenge.arq or www.rideTTA.org. Citizens can carpool, ride the bus, vanpool, or work from home. She said that, in honor of International Car Free Day, all regional transit including TTA, DATA, Chapel Hill Transit, etc., would be free. Commissioner Carey - no comments. Commissioner Halkiotis said that seniors in central and northern Orange County are concerned because they have not had an update of the Senior Center Design Committee. He suggested that the Chair and the Manager have a discussion about a final report or call a final meeting of the design committee for all citizens to participate. He said that people are worried. He is also concerned about the Farmer's Market in Hillsborough. He keeps assuring people that this is going to happen. Commissioner Halkiotis said that when he was flying back from Florida yesterday, he met people that had most recently moved to Orange County from Florida. He said that high property taxes and huge increases in home insurance in Florida have driven people away from there. He found this interesting. Commissioner Halkiotis made reference to Energy Conservation measures and said that he noticed that they might have missed out on a program sponsored by NACo called "Change Your Light". A lot of counties in North Carolina have gotten involved. The program is encouraging employees to change out one incandescent light bulb at hams, which will prevent 450 pounds of greenhouse gas emissions. He will give this information to the Interim Manager and for him to give this to Wayne Fenton and to empower him to be a leader in this area. Commissioner Halkiotis said that this Sunday at 3:00 p.m. there will be a celebration of Thanksgiving at the Orange High School gymnasium, sponsored by the Sheriff's Department to honor London Ivey and Russ LeBlanc and the principal of Orange High School for their heroic actions a couple of weeks ago during the shooting there. He will represent the Board of County Commissioners and he noted that Commissioner Carey and Chair Jacobs would be in Wisconsin for an event. He will bring greetings from all County Commissioners. He will tell everyone that it has been a longstanding position of the Board of County Commissioners to fully endorse and support Resource Officers in the schools because the safety of children is paramount. Commissioner Foushee reminded all of the Human Services Advisory Commission forum tomorrow morning at 8:00 a.m. at the Chapel Hill Bible Church on Sage Road. Commissioner Carey said that the Efland FestiFall has been canceled or delayed and he would like a report on this. Rod Visser said that he would bring forth a report soon. Chair Jacobs said that the Board met with the DSS board last week and the trends are sobering. The documentation that people will have to have to receive services has increased. Also, since 2001 the number of people in Orange County who are receiving food stamps has doubled. The County has a very good DSS staff. Chair Jacobs said that they received information from the Cybrary, which has finished its 2005-2006 report, and they have served 20,000 people this past year. There will be a belated celebration this weekend. Chair Jacobs said that he did attend the Hillsborough Historic District Commission last night and people were supportive of the changes that were made in response to the concerns that had been raised previously about the justice facilities expansion. In October they will have a formal presentation by staff and they will rule on whether or not they support the formal application. Commissioner Halkiotis asked about the status of the glass and Chair Jacobs said that it is back to clear glass. Part of the difficulty was that the computer program that had the image on it made the glass look blue. It will be an interior wall, and the commission felt more comfortable after realizing this. Chair Jacobs said that he had asked for an update on the Seymour Senior Center and he would like updates on both senior centers at the next Board of County Commissioners' meeting with schedules so that it can be communicated with the Friends of bath senior centers. Chair Jacobs said that yesterday there was a meeting of the New Hope Park at Blackwood Farm planning group and they are operating on a schedule to have the design by the end of January. Chair Jacobs welcomed Mr. Shepherd. 4. County Manager's Report Rod Visser introduced AI Terry from OPT and announced that OPT received earlier this year a 2005 Community Safety. The drivers must drive 500,000 miles or less per year and be accident free. AI Terry introduced Gwendolyn Stephenson, Bratcher Evans, and Cindie Skinner(Assistant Manager) as drivers for OPT. He said that it takes a lot of effort to do this and OPT is strongly supported by the County. Chair Jacobs presented AI Terry with the award. AI Terry said that they will be fare-free on car free days for the Smart Commute Challenge. Rod Visser introduced Chief Information Officer Todd Jones, who introduced his new Information Technology Operations Supervisor, Jim Northrup. He said that Mr. Northrup would manage the day-to-day operations of the network, servers, and desktop support. Rod Visser introduced Rob Taylor from the Solid Waste management staff. He said that Rob Taylor was the team leader of the team that received a Ralph Ketner award. Part of the award was for working to keep the costs low for recycling and the service levels high. According to the State Division of Pollution, Prevention, and Environmental Assistance, Orange County ranks highest in the State in per capita recovery of electronics waste and is reported among the top programs in the entire nation in terms of pounds per person that are recovered. He said that they have worked out an agreement with a local scrap metal artist to regularly remove helium tanks and other inert gas tanks at no cost for artists to convert them into sunbursts. Commissioner Halkiotis asked whose idea it was to recycle the tanks and Rob Taylor said that through working with local artists, he found that these were desirable items for artists to fabricate art from to put together this program. He was instrumental in working on this project. Commissioner Halkiotis commended the staff on being creative. 5. Items far Decision--Consent Agenda A motion was made by Commissioner Halkiotis, seconded by Commissioner Foushee to approve those items on the Consent Agenda as stated below: a. Minutes - Nane b. Appointments (1) Efland-Mebane Implementation Focus Group-Appointments The Board appointed Peter Hallenback and Robbin Taylor-Hall to the Efland-Mebane Implementation Focus Group. (2) Human Relations Commission-Reappointments The Board reappointed Steven Clemens, Bryant Callon, and John Vogt to the Human Relations Commission to first full terms ending September 30, 2009. (3) Recreation and Parks Advisory Council This item was removed and placed at the end of the consent agenda for separate consideration. {4) Commission for Women-Reappointment The Board reappointed Josephine Holman-Long to the Commission for Women to a second full term ending June 30, 2009. c. Motor Vehicle Property Tax ReleaselRefunds The Board approved the adoption of a refund resolution, which is incorporated by reference, related to 57 requests far motor vehicle property tax releases or refunds in accordance with North Carolina General Statutes. d. Property Tax Releases The Board adopted a resolution, which is incorporated by reference, to release property values related to six {6) requests for property tax releases in accordance with N.C. General Statute 105-381. e. Property Tax Refunds The Board adapted a refund resolution, which is incorporated by reference, related to one (1} request fro property tax refund in accordance with N.C. General Statute 105-381. f. Property Value Changes The Board adopted a resolution, which is incorporated by reference, approving value changes made in property values after the 2006 Board of Equalization and Review has adjourned. g_ Approval to Extend a Contract with the Town of Carrboro for Interim Provision of The Board approved Animal Services to extent the existing contract with the Tawn of Carrboro for limited Animal Control services, recognizing that said contract is dependent upon approval by the Town; and authorized the Chair to execute the final contract document, pending final review by County management and the County Attorney. h. Contract Between CHCCS, OCS, and Health Department for School Nurses The Board approved contracts between Chapel Hill Carrboro City Schools (CHCCS), Orange County Schools (OCS), and the Health Department for School Nurse Funding and authorized the Chair to sign. i. Change in BOCC Regular Meetina Schedule The Board amended its regular meeting calendar by adding a BOCC Work Session on Thursday, December 7, 2006 from 7:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. at the Southern Human Services Center in Chapel Hill, N. C. VOTE ON CONSENT AGENDA: UNANIMOUS ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT AGENDA: b. Appointments {3) Recreation and Parks Advisory Council The Board considered making a change to the Recreation and Parks Advisory Council. Chair Jacobs said that the person from the Chapel Hill town limits has now moved within the Carrboro city limits, so there is now a vacancy from the Chapel Hill town limits and there are two qualified applicants. A motion was made by Commissioner Gordon, seconded by Chair Jacobs to nominate Diana Caplow to the Chapel Hill position on the RPAC. VOTE: UNANIMOUS 6. Resolutions or Proclamations a. Resolution To Declare October 12, 2006 as Rebecca Sellers Clark Day in Orange County The Board considered a resolution to declare October 12, 2006 as Rebecca Sellers Clark Day in Orange County and authorizing the Chair to sign. Commissioner Carey said that Mrs. Clark was not present because they did not inform her about it. The event is supposed to be a surprise on October 12tH A motion was made by Commissioner Gordon, seconded by Commissioner Halkiotis to approve a resolution to declare October 12, 2006 as Rebecca Sellers Clark Day in Orange County and authorize the Chair to sign. ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS RESOLUTION TO DECLARE OCTOBER 12, 2006 REBECCA SELLERS CLARK DAY WHEREAS, Mrs. Rebecca Sellers Clark was born on October 12, 1915, and has reached the age of 91 years old, and WHEREAS, during her 91 years, Mrs. Clark has blazed many trails that represented the road less traveled, and WHEREAS, these roads led her to be of service to her church, family and community in many valuable ways, and WHEREAS, to many Mrs. Clark is a patron, for she has given generously to promote and foster the dreams of young women and men who are aspiring young professionals who can learn from her experiences, and WHEREAS, to others, Mrs. Clark has been a mentor, teacher and coach inspiring and motivating them to strive to set and achieve their goals in life despite the odds, and WHEREAS, to her church family, Mrs. Clark is the historian, visionary, cultural; and faith leader who provides the solid rack foundation that transcends generations of church members, and WHEREAS, to many aspiring politicians she has served as advisor, confidant and tireless "Get Out The Vote" advocate and supporter which has multiplied her impact an the electoral process at the local, state and national levels, and WHEREAS, Mrs. Clark has been and continues to be a champion for justice, willing to stand for what is right and defend those who have little or no "voice", and WHEREAS, Mrs. Clark has been and continues to be a human and civil rights advocate in all aspects of her life, and WHEREAS, Mrs. Clark continues to blaze trails for justice and equality at the age of 91 that many younger people would find exhausting; and WHEREAS, Mrs. Clark has exemplified the best spirit of citizenship and integrity, and by her service has greatly benefited all citizens of Orange County THEREFORE, BE 17 RESOLVED, that the Orange County Board of Commissioners does hereby honor Mrs. Rebecca Sellers Clark by Proclaiming October 12, 2006 as REBECCA SELLERS CLARK DAY in Orange County. This the 19th day of September 2006. VOTE: UNANIMOUS b. Resolution to Recognize the Hispanic Heritage and History Month in Orange County The Board considered a resolution recognizing Hispanic Heritage and History Month in Orange County. Executive Director of EI Centro Latino Ben Balderas said that they opened in July 2000 and it was a collaborative effort of local leaders and community volunteers that recognized the growing population of Latina in the Triangle. They are trying to address the needs of this growing population. There was a community festival this past Sunday at the Carrboro Town Commons and it was very well attended. They hope to make this an annual event. Chair Jacobs said that he read about the festival in the Sunday paper. He suggested letting the County Commissioners know next year for support. A motion was made by Commissioner Halkiotis, seconded by Commissioner Gordon declare September 15t" -October 15`", 2006 at Hispanic Heritage and History Month in Orange County. RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE HISPANIC HERITAGE AND HISTORY MONTH IN ORANGE COUNTY WHEREAS, National Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15 through October 15; and WHEREAS, this month celebrates the culture and traditions of U.S. residents who trace their roots to Spain, Mexico and the Spanish-speaking nations of Central America, South America and the Caribbean; and WHEREAS, September 15 is the anniversary of independence of five Latin American countries: Costa Rica, EI Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua; and WHEREAS, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September 18, respectively; and WHEREAS, Hispanic Americans have contributed throughout the ages to the prosperity and culture of our nation; and WHEREAS, the estimated Hispanic population in the United States as of July 1, 2005 was 42.7 million, making the people of Hispanic origin the nation's largest ethnic or racial minority; and WHEREAS, Hispanic people constitute 14 percent of the nation's total population and as of the 2000 Census the Hispanic population represents 4.5 percent of Orange County; and WHEREAS, Orange County has aggressively pursued steps to improve the engagement of the Hispanic community by offering Spanish courses to all county employees at no cost to the individual, creating an emergency communications network to insure potential life saving messages reach the Hispanic community during times of crisis, and multiple County publications are printed in both English and Spanish; NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved that the Orange County Board of Commissioners do hereby recognize from September 15 to October 15 as Hispanic Heritage and History Month in Orange County celebrating Hispanic culture and traditions. This the 19t" day of September 2006. VOTE: UNANIMOUS 7. Special Presentations a. MasterAging Plan Update and Preliminary Goals and Objectives Appra~al The Board received an update on the Master Aging Planning progress and considered approval of the report outline (including the report theme statement, and the development of a bill of rights for alder persons} and the preliminary goals and objectives far 2007-11 for public comment. Chair Jacobs introduced the Co-Chairs of the Master Aging Plan -Florence Soltys and Pat Sprigg. Orange County Master Aging Plan: 2007-11 BOCC Update Pt-eliminary Goals & Objectives September 19, 2006 Presented by M.A.P. Steering Committee Co-chairs: Pat Sprigg & Florence Soltys Jerry Passmore, Project Manager M.A.P.: It Goals ^ To develop and implement a MasterAging Plan (M.A.P.) that provides a comprehensive and coordinated delivery of community services to older adults for the life span who have different levels of functional capacity. ^ To promote a senior friendly community as part of smart growth policy for all. ^To develop acounty--wide plan that integrates the resources of the many public and private community partners. New M.A.P. Theme Developing Aging-Friendly Communities in Orange ^ Steering Committee approved/modified the Theme and Call to Action statement as follows: Engage al! departments of Orange County Government (and towns) as well as the broader community, in the process of improving the infrastructure and services to meet the needs of older adults who desire to age in place, especially those with functianat disabilities and impairments. Overarching Goal Areas ^ Steering Committee and subcommittees focused an four goals for all older adults: ^ InformationlAccess ^ Housing/Shelter ^ Transit/Mobility ^ Community Transitional Care Functional Population Goal Areas Steering Committee and subcommittees also focused on three functional populations: ^ Well-Fit Older Adults ^ Disabled/Moderately Impaired Older Adults ^ Institutionalized/Severely Impaired OlderAdults New LegislationlAdvocacy Area Goal -Objectives Goal H: Promote a legislativeladvocacy aging agenda that supports Orange County's Bill of Rights for Older Persons. N7 - Establish a legislative/advocacy mechanism to involve older persons, local county boards, officials and public in improving the lives of alder persons. H2 -Increase educational opportunities for older persons, local officials, legislators and general public to be exposed to legislative issues related to aging. Planning & Administration Goal -Objectives Goal l: Enhance the planning, administration, coordination and funding of a response system fo the needs of older persons in Orange County. Ob1.1 ~ - Plannincr/Coordination -Improve the county's planning & coordination efforts for the growing aging population. Obj.12 -Administration -Improve the service delivery of the Department on Aging's services as well as other county departments that serve older persons, Obj,13 -Funding - /ncrease appropriate public and private funding for aging services that are affected by a growing aging population, Future Plans and Meetings • Sept,- Oct,. 2006 -Community input meetings for public and community partners • Nov, 2, 2006 - M,A.P. Steering Committee to review public input and to recommend the final M,A,P, Report to BOCC • Nov, 74, 2006 - BOCC to consider approval of the MAP Action Plan for 2007- 2077 BOCC Input and Approval ^ Preliminary M.A.P. report outline that includes - (1) Change in the Period Covered to 2007-2011 (2) New Theme "Aging-Friendly Communities" (3) A Bill of Rights statement for older persons • Preliminary Goals, Objectives and Strategies for public review Chair Jacobs said that he and Commissioner Gordon served on this steering committee, and this is a very dedicated group. Commissioner Gordon commended this group and said that she was glad to be a part of it. Commissioner Carey said that he liked the new title and the direction in which they are moving. Commissioner Carey made reference to goal C -Transit and Mobility -and haw the elderly who have difficulty in getting around and haw their needs are going to be addressed in times of emergency. He said that, with the hazard planning that is going on at the State level, most of the planning and evacuations deal with the people in facilities very well. He asked about those that are aging in their homes and how this plan addresses this group in emergencies. Pat Sprigg said that Carol Woods is working with Emergency Management in developing an emergency preparedness plan. She hopes that this will include those aging in place. She will look at this again. Commissioner Carey made reference to the "Bill of Rights" and II. which states, "The Right To An Income In Retirement Which Would Provide An Adequate Standard Of Living. He does not want the County to have to guarantee this. Pat Sprigg said that Commissioner Gordon brought this up also in a meeting and they will fine-tune the language. Commissioner Carey said that several other of the goals need language refinement so that the County is not held responsible for things that it cannot deliver. Commissioner Halkiotis made reference to the concept of asenior-friendly community. He said that at the last meeting he highlighted that a disabled senior citizen could not lift a bag of trash at the convenience center. He said that the report should encompass issues with seniors accessing solid waste convenience centers. He suggested that the report highlight County building designs and how they can be senior-friendly. He wants to make sure that the senior-friendly community becomes an all-encompassing driving force and that it is looked at from every possible angle. A motion was made by Commissioner Halkiotis, seconded by Commissioner Gordon to accept the update as information and approve the proposed report outline, including the theme statement, the Bill of Rights far Older Persons (with language changes), objective and strategies for 2007-11 to receive public comment. VOTE: UNANIMOUS b. Animal Sheltering -Operating Practices and Philosophies The Board received information on sheltering philosophies and practices in relation to the design of the County's animal services facility and provided direction and guidance to staff regarding a charge to the Animal Services Facility Design Committee an the operating practice and philosophy of the sheltering component of this project and its potential elements. Chair Jacobs said that this is one step towards educating ourselves and have some more clarity about the future of animal sheltering in Orange County. Animal Services Director Bob Marotta said that they are delighted to be able to present to the Board tonight. He recognized members of the Animal Services Advisory Board. He said that they are in the process of designing a new animal services facility and their purpose has been to get materials so that the Board can properly charge the design committee. He introduced Kate Pullen who was formerly with the Humane Society of the United States and is now with the American Society far the Protection of Cruelty to Animals. She has worked with Orange County before and is a nationally recognized authority on sheltering practices. Bob Marotto explained some of the terminology in the PowerPoint presentation. Kate Pullen said that she is asked to review new shelter designs, but she needs to know what the agencies want to do. She cannot tell whether the design will allow them to do what they want to do until she knows what they want to do. She said that the County needs to be able to work with partnerships in the community. Orange Gounty Discussion on Sheltering Practices Kate Pullen RSPCA What Are the Gaals of Sheltering ? ^ To move animals through the facility, longer holds (even with extra programs) results in behavior and health issues- the act of holding that animal does not guarantee adoption ^ Reduced euthanasia of healthy behaviorally sound animals (What is adoptable?) ^ Put more time and money info (hose animals that have the best success for adoption into the average adoptive home ^ Understand there will always be animals who should not be re-homed ^ Programs can grow as resources expand that allow us to broaden our definition of adoptable ^ Understand that reduced relinquishment is the solution to the problem ^ We will never adopt our way out of euthanasia ^ Understand thaf the shelter alone cannot solve the problem Can't We Just be No Kill? ^ Achieving a no-kill community is everyone's universal goal, but how? ^ Not as simple as "nq not, never" has to be "sometimes" ^ Many agencies/communities tried ^ Maricopa County ^ City of Austin ^ San Francisco SPCA - 500,000 populationl$15 million budget (w/AC) ^ Created programs based an a phrase with no definitions or honest examples to the community. ^ Makes for flashy headlines but impossible to achieve and then the criticism starts ^ Communities that switched from open admission to no kill and then switched back Moue Too FastlLack of Defined Program ^ Overcrowded animal conditions ^ Transfer animals to any group that will take them -desperate to not euthanize but group may be hoarder, we still have an obligation to the animals in our charge to protect them ^ Animals that need intervention but there is no money or staff to provide ^ Sick animals because the facility and animals are not being managed properly - necessary euthanasia decisions not being made because of fear of criticism ^ Drop due to poor public perception, sick animals, putting unsafe animals into the community Communities/Agencies That are Successful ^ Ft. Wayne Animal Care and Control ^ Denver Dumb Friend League ^ Marin Humane Society ^ Lollypop Farm Humane Society ^ Asheville, NC Community Why are They Successful? ^ They do not define themselves as no-kill ^ They are honest about what they can and cannot do v They continue to evaluate their programs and are open to new ideas v They talk about the issues with the citizens openly ^ They build partnerships in the community that can assist ^ They put time into defining their program based on realistic goals that are communicated to staff and community ^ They are honest about what animals they can honestly re-home and what animals are not candidates for adoption v They have built facilities that are designed on their program and that will allow them to achieve their goals So, How Do We Achieve Reduced Euthanasia of Healthy Behaviorally Sound Animals? ^ Develop a written strategic plan ^ Understand that it will take time and involve incremental programming based on development of community partnerships ^ Understand that to be only `reactive' you will never be successful unless equal money and time is put into `pro-active' programming ^ Legislative ^ Sterilization ^ Education ^ Achieve an healthy population that is easier to adopt and transfer to partner agencies and that reflect well on Orange County Animal Services ^ Commit to a building program that promotes excellent care and increased options far animals Shelter Design As you explore a new vision of animal sheltering and care in Orange Gounty and enter into the design process for the new facility, the following are considered best practice: ^ A minimum of 4 separate isolation areas per each species housed fo keep the general population healthy ^ Larger animal care staff to care for more animals housed ^ A veterinarian and support staff to treat those illnesses identified as treatable and injuries that are recoverable with reasonable intervention ^ Animal behaviorist to conduct behavior evaluations on all animals to assist the agency in making adoption and euthanasia decisions ^ Ful! time volunteer coordinator to manage and train a needed larger volunteer staff Closing Comments ^ Reactive vs proactive ^ Impressed with Orange County's approach and current operation ^ Neither the County or the Shelter should be blamed for euthanasia numbers when they are reacting to animals that the community is generating. ^ This is a community problem and needs a community solution Commissioner Carey said that this is an opportunity to educate the public. He asked Kate Pullen about the Asilomar Accords and how this is being used and the impact on animal welfare. Kate Pullen said the Asilomar Accords is a group of animal welfare leaders who met at Asilomar in Pacific California in 2004 to develop relationships and create goals on reducing euthanasia. And they have all been struggling with haw to define an adoptable animal. The reality is that every community and facility should define what is adoptable to them and for their resources. She said that it is an excellent tool that is helping communities define their own program. Commissioner Carey said that this means defining goals and adopting performance standards to work toward over time. Commissioner Halkiotis thanked Kate Pullen for coming this evening and he asked if there are people who think a no kill shelter is possible. Kate Pullen said that she has directed shelters and many people have asked that of her, and if she took 15 minutes and explained what they actually did then the other person would understand and would bring their animal to her because they trusted her to do the right thing. She said that it is best to take the extra time to explain to the public what you are doing. Commissioner Halkiotis suggested going to look at the Asheville program. He also mentioned Guilford County and the wonderful website that it has. He said that using technology could be a powerful tool in educating the public. Commissioner Foushee asked Kate Pullen to expand on the proactive legislative examples to reduce euthanasia. Kate Pullen said that local legislation is the best. Dog legislation has been around a long time, but cat legislation is fairly new. She thinks that it is irresponsible for people to think that their cat can wander the neighborhood and be intact. She said that the legislation in Nashville is excellent. She suggested stiffer fines for repeat offenders. It will not necessarily reduce euthanasia, but will do a better job of controlling the animals. Chair Jacobs asked about a database on legislation, etc. from ASPCA that could be accessed and Kate Pullen said yes and she will send it to Bob Marotta. Commissioner Carey asked when the Board was scheduled to adapt the charge far the committee and Chair Jacobs said October 3`d c. Emergency Management Planning Update The Board received a presentation from staff regarding efforts made this year to enhance planning for the County's emergency preparedness and provided feedback and direction to the Manager and staff. Rod Visser said that in November 2005 the County Commissioners discussed Emergency Management planning and asked the staff for an update on this issue and EMS Director Jack Ball and staff put together the attached report. Jack Ball said that they have highlighted 24 different items that they have worked with and that are in progress. Several of the items are innovative programs that have been instituted to help bring the partners of municipal governments and volunteer organizations together so that they can effectively respond to disasters and emergencies. The three major areas are: Planning, Communications, and Training. Regarding planning, the staff is working with Social Services, transit agencies, Department on Aging, Animal Services, and Information Technology to create a composite database of the various lists that each agency maintains for persons with special medical needs and mobility/transportation issues. This database will then be paired with the Geographic Information System to map the locations of these persons in the event of a major disaster where evacuations may be necessary. Regarding Communications, staff has participated in the Countywide Communicators Task Farce comprised of Public Information Officers from agencies, municipalities, hospitals, the University, and other partners to share coordinated information during disasters. They have also provided the Orange Cards to all schools, which are quick sheltering reference cards. There was such demand for the cards that they were able to leverage some additional grant funding to print 14,000 more cards. The staff is also working with the UNC Apples Program to get an intern to assist in helping to make the website even more user-friendly, including making the print larger for those that have trouble seeing. Also, they have contracted far a conference calling capability and this has been put in place. This is exercised on a regular basis from the State down to the local departments. Regarding training, they have been working with other departments, specifically, the Pandemic Flu Symposium put together by the Health Department. They have expanded on this program in-house and they are putting together a pandemic plan far EMS and a training plan that they can share with other County departments. Other information includes working with the Fire Marshall's office and the school systems on the emergency planning for the schools. Commissioner Halkiotis made reference to the Orange Cards going home with the children and asked about the phone book providers putting this information in the written documents. Jack Ball said that they tried to do this, but there would have been a charge to the County for assisting with distribution of these cards. Commissioner Halkiotis wants to point this out publicly to the citizens that the phone company wants to charge for the health, safety, and welfare information system far citizens in the County. He asked Jack Ball to keep the County Commissioners posted on this. He said that the phone companies get enough money from the 911 charges. Commissioner Halkiotis asked if there was a listing of disabled citizens in the County in the event of a major emergency so that someone could check on these people. Jack Ball said that there is a listing through DSS and the Red Cross there is a list. They are also working on developing a better listing by putting the information on a GIS. Commissioner Halkiotis wants to have an in-house list and not have to rely on DSS or the Red Cross. He wants to know a timeline for an emergency backup generator and having this information in-house. Eric Griffin said that they are compiling a master list with DSS and they are combining it to put on a server so they all have access to it. Commissioner Halkiotis said that he does not want to have any New Orleans type events anywhere in this country. He wants to be prepared. The plan should be developed and then polished periodically. He said that he was shocked to see haw many people in Orange County need electricity because of oxygen tanks. He hopes that there is a GIS map of these people that need immediate attention. Eric Griffin said that they are shooting for December 1, 2006. Commissioner Carey said that there are some people that are not on public lists who are aging in place and they should drill down deeper and find these people. He suggested including Meals on Wheels recipients and churches with sick and shut-in lists. Chair Jacobs asked about #6 and haw to get information out when there is no technology to do it. He said that there is no posting area in his community. He would like to have a way to get information to the general populate when the electricity is out. Jack Ball said that if it were possible to send people around through the streets with megaphones, they would utilize this. They also urge citizens to get abattery-operated radio because there is a network of stations that transmit information. Chair Jacobs asked what radio station besides WCHL gives local information and Jack Ball said that if they request it, all of them do, though the Emergency Radio Broadcast System. Chair Jacobs said that schools have a way to call parents, and he would like to pursue something like this. He thinks that at the times when modern technology breaks down, it is most important for people to get information. Jack Ball said that they have looked into this and they applied for a grant for this, but it was denied. They will continue to add this to their budget process. Chair Jacobs made reference to #11 and grant funding for cinema advertising at the Streets of Southpoint. Jack Ball said yes and it is also at Timberlyne. Chair Jacobs asked if they were talking to Mebane about adding a shelter at Gravelly Hill Middle School and Jack Ball said that he has had communications with the Mebane Fire Chief in trying to coordinate a shelter. There were some issues with the generator capability at this school. Rod Visser said that he has talked with OCS staff about this issue and the estimated cast of retrofitting. They have not actively pursued this yet. It will be subject to funding. Chair Jacobs said that there was interest from two-elected officials from Mebane and he would like a report back from Rod Visser an this to be able to share with Mebane. Commissioner Gordon made reference to the notes from November 2005 and said that she asked several questions about the plan and evacuation and she would like to make sure that these concerns are addressed. This is on pages 6-7. She wants to know the plans for evacuation in the event of an emergency at the Shearon Harris Nuclear Power Plant. Jack Ball said that part of the evacuation deals with issues such as this. The State is looking at utilizing community colleges as evacuation centers. This will be part of the plan. Chair Jacobs said that at TJCOG they had a presentation from Progress Energy and he asked an official from Progress Energy about their ten-mile responsibility and if they would be willing to expand the planning area for evacuations. The official told him that he would have to think about it and get back to him. This was six months ago. Last week, there was a meeting of the Triangle Chairs and he brought this up again and that the evacuation plan should be one of the highest priorities in the next year. He said that Shearon Harris is on the agenda for the Assembly of Governments meeting. Commissioner Halkiotis said that he thinks that there is a generator at Gravelly Hill but it is small and it will not run a shelter. There can be a transfer switch put in that costs around $75,000. He would like to ask OCS to provide an exact cost for this in writing and ask the County construction manager to get an estimate. He said that he is getting frustrated about this issue. Commissioner Halkiotis said that Rod Visser and Chair Jacobs were part of the school collaboration meeting and this should be part of all newly constructed schools - to use part of the building for an emergency shelter. Commissioner Halkiatis suggested that EMS put in their budget request for next year a small calling system to alert citizens of emergencies. It could be a voluntary thing for citizens to sign up. Commissioner Carey suggested asking schools about using their phone facilities and to put this in writing to the schools. Chair Jacobs said that this could be done at the joint meeting next week with the school systems. $. Public Hearings a. CDBG Scattered Site Housing Rehabilitation Program The Board conducted a public hearing to receive citizen comments regarding a change in the dwelling units targeted for repair under the County's Community Development (CDBG} Scattered Site Housing Rehabilitation Program and considered authorizing the staff to proceed with grant implementation. Housing and Community Development Director Tara Fikes said that Orange County received $400,000 in CDBG funds from the North Carolina Department of Commerce in May 2004. At that time, staff had planned to repair approximately 15 substandard houses that were occupied by low-income families. Since that time, they have found that the average cost far rehabilitation is higher than anticipated in 2004. The anticipated cost was $20-25,000, but the average cost is now $33,000 per house. As they prepared to repair the units, they ran across other circumstances such as owner deaths, ownership changes, and eligibility issues. Staff suggests making changes to the targeted houses to replace three of the houses and to eliminate another five houses from the program since the funding will only allow repair of ten units. They have reviewed these proposed changes with the Tawn of Carrbora and the Town of Hillsborough, and they are in agreement. There was no public comment. A motion was made by Commissioner Halkiotis, seconded by Commissioner Carey to close the public hearing. VOTE: UNANIMOUS A motion was made by Commissioner Foushee, seconded by Commissioner Halkiotis to authorize the staff to proceed with grant implementation. VOTE: UNANIMOUS 9. Items for Decision--Regular Agenda a. BOCC District Elections Education Process The Board considered tools and a process to increase public awareness of the November 7, 2006 District Elections Referendum. Chair Jacobs said that much of this is material that the Board saw at its last meeting. There has been an attempt to gather mare information and to address the questions raised by the County Commissioners last week. He made reference to the new page #5 for the abstract . This was a simplified wording far the public ad. He said that today he edited a copy of a letter that would go out to people that were identified either specifically or groups and organizations, soliciting their participation on the Education Committee. He noted that in 2001 they spent $16,000 to promote bonds in the past. So far, they have spent about $1,500 on one series of ads. There is enough money in the Commissioners' contingency to adequately cover all of this. Commissioner Carey suggested making decisions tonight and implementing this educational plan. He said that the $15,000 allocation is a reasonable place to start. He wants to go ahead and publish the brochure now and begin to distribute them. A motion was made by Commissioner Carey, seconded by Commissioner Faushee to allocate $15,000 and proceed with the brochure publication. Commissioner Carey suggested that the $9,000 proposed for paid colored advertisement is a good place to start. This is included in the motion. Commissioner Gordon asked the staff to let the County Commissioners see the brochure before the October 3rd meeting. VOTE: UNANIMOUS After item 70-a, it was pointed out by the Clerk that there was no motion for the charge. A motion was made by Commissioner Halkiotis, seconded by Commissioner Foushee to approve the charge as stated on page 7 of the abstract: • Become familiar with the specific details contained in the referendum • Develop appropriate informational materials that will address the District Election Referendum • Design and implement a campaign to distribute relevant factual information about the District Election Referendum for Orange County citizens in the most effective and efficient manner possible • Design and implement a process for infornational meetings with civic groups, non-profit agencies, neighborhood associations, and other interested parties in the community • Ensure that equal access to factual information is provided to all individuals and groups, regardless of their position for or against the referendum • Encourage all eligible voters to participate in the November 7, 200& election VOTE: UNANIMOUS b. Appointments (1) Arts Commission -New Appointment The Board considered making one appointment to the Arts Commission. A motion was made by Commissioner Carey, seconded by Commissioner Halkiotis to appoint Brownyn Merritt to the Arts Commission to a first full term ending March 31, 2009. VOTE: UNANIMOUS (2) Eno EDD Small Area Plan Taskforce -Initial Appointments The Board considered making appointments to the Eno EDD Small Area Plan Taskforce. A motion was made by Commissioner Carey, seconded by Commissioner Foushee to appoint the following to the Eno EDD Small Area Plan Taskforce: ResidentslProperty owners (3-5} William DuBose Donna Easterlin Donald Easterlin Mark Michol Business Owners {2-4} Mark O'Neal At-Large (3) No current a licants Orange County BOCC member (1} Valerie Foushee Durham City Council Member (1) Recommendation Forthcoming Orange County Planning Board member (1} Recommendation Forthcoming Oran e Count EDC Member 1 Robert Ward Eno River Association/Eno State Park Rep. Robin Jacobs VOTE: UNANIMOUS (3) New Hope Park at Blackwood Farm -Appointments The Board considered making new appointments to the New Hope Park at Blackwood Farm Taskforce. A motion was made by Commissioner Gordan, seconded by Commissioner Carey to appoint Bill Kaiser from the Commission for the Environment and Anne Loeb from the Economic Development Commission to the New Hope Park at Blackwood Farm Taskforce. VOTE: UNANIMOUS (4) Sportsplex Community Advisory Committee -New Appointments The Board considered making appointments to the Sportsplex Community Advisory Committee. A motion was made by Commissioner Foushee, seconded by Commissioner Carey to appoint Donna Williams, Director of Healthful LivinglAthletics for OCS and Stephanie Willis, Coordinator of Student Health Programs for CHCCS to the Sportsplex Community Advisory Committee. VOTE: UNANIMOUS 10. Reports a. Consideration of Uses for County-Owned Portion of the Greene Tract The Board considered receiving a staff report on the 60-acre portion of the former Greene Tract, owned by Orange County. Chair Jacobs said that this meeting would be discussed at the upcoming Assembly of Governments meeting. Rod Visser said that there is potential interest by the Triangle Land Conservancy in serving as a fourth party on the 86 acres of the Greene Tract held with Chapel Hill and Carrboro for open space. The TLC has asked about the County's interest in also preserving the 60 acres as open space that the County owns solely. Chair Jacobs said that it was brought up last time that the triggering mechanism for beginning to repay the Solid Waste Enterprise Fund is an agreement to a conservation easement on the property in question. Rod Visser clarified that the resolution that the work group adapted in June 2002 was that the triggering mechanism for repayment to the Solid Waste Enterprise Fund for the Greene Tract is approval by all three governing boards for conservation easements. Chair Jacobs asked for clarification on a time limit for the other governments to endorse the conservation easement. Rod Visser said that the resolution that the work group came up with in 2002 is a guideline and the interlocal agreement says that this property could not be used for solid waste purposes. He does not think that there is anything in the 1999 agreement that lays out a specific timeline by which decisions have to be made or reimbursement has to take place. Geof Gledhill said that he agreed that there is no timeline for doing this and there is an inherent ability by all governments to make this never happen because there is no timeline, in which case, the property will always remains available for solid waste purposes. At whatever point in time the governments decide to move it for something other than solid waste purposes, it triggers the repayment. Chair Jacobs said that it is important to be clear at the Assembly of Governments meeting what the parameters are. Commissioner Gordon asked questions about haw this would impact the County's budget. Rod Visser said there is $250,000 for indirect costs that County government provides to the Solid Waste Enterprise Fund. The fund is self-sustaining through tipping fees and the 3R fee revenue. Commissioner Gordon said that maybe it is better to keep the two parcels disjoint as they have been. Environment and Resource Conservation Director Dave Stancil said that the orange area is the 60 acres deeded to Orange County, the green area is the jointly held open space portion, and the brown area is the jointly held portion for affordable housing. There is a utility easement that was not included in the 60 acres, so it continues to be part of the jointly held portion. Dave Stancil said that they have talked with TLC about being a joint holder and the TLC Land Committee has recommended that TLC look favorably upon this. They also recommended that the 60 acres that Orange County awns should be protected. He made reference to page 2 of the abstract, and said that the official position from the board of directors was that they were supportive of participating in the transaction with a couple of conditions, such as the conservation easement being placed on the green area that would preclude future development. Secondly, Orange County is to agree to conserve the orange area. Thirdly, they would want the transaction casts and a stewardship endowment to be created to address long- term costs of the easement. Commissioner Carey said that the accessibility of the 60 acres to the rail line was mentioned for a reason. He said that there were no plans at the time, but it was mentioned for future purposes. He thinks that even if they transfer it to the Lands Legacy program, it would trigger a requirement to reimburse the fund. Geof Gledhill said that they will have to flesh out the Lands Legacy issue. Chair Jacobs said that the Carolina North Leadership Advisory Committee got a letter from a member of the Solid Waste staff, as a citizen, suggesting the use of the rail line to serve Carolina North. Commissioner Gordon made reference to the transaction costs and endowment costs and said that they need to think about this and have some questions answered. 11. Closed Session A motion was made by Commissioner Foushee, seconded by Commissioner Halkiotis to go into closed session at 10:20 p.m. for the purpose of: "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 for open space purposes ," NCGS § 143-318.11(a)(5). VOTE: UNANIMOUS RE-CONVENE INTO REGULAR SESSION: A motion was made by Commissioner Gordon, seconded by Commissioner Foushee to re-convene into regular session at 10:50 p.m. VOTE: UNANIMOUS 12. Adjournment A motion was made by Commissioner Gordon, seconded by Commissioner Foushee to adjourn the meeting at 10:50 p.m. VOTE: UNANIMOUS Barry Jacobs, Chair Donna S. Baker Clerk to the Board