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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - 20061017APPROVED 611 212 0 0 7 MINUTES ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS October 17, 2006 8:00 a.m. The Orange County Board of Commissioners met on Tuesday, October 17, 2006 at 8:00 a.m. at the Southern Human Services Center in Chapel Hill, N.C. COUNTY COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Chair Barry Jacobs, and Commissioners Moses Carey, Jr., Valerie P. Foushee, Alice Gordon and Stephen Halkiotis COUNTY COMMISSIONERS ABSENT: COUNTY STAFF PRESENT: Donna S. Baker, Clerk to the Board OTHERS PRESENT: Laura Blackmon A motion was made by Commissioner Halkiotis seconded by Commissioner Carey to go into closed session at 8:07 a.m.: "to consider the qualifications, competence, performance, character, fitness, conditions of appointment, or conditions of initial employment of an individual public officer or employee or prospective public officer or employee;" NCGS 143-318.11(a)(6). VOTE: UNANIMOUS The Clerk did not stay for the closed session. The Orange County Board of Commissioners met with County Manager candidate finalist Laura Blackmon. RECONVENE INTO REGULAR SESSION A motion was made by Commissioner Halkiotis seconded by Commissioner Foushee to reconvene into regular session at 9:33 a.m. VOTE: UNANIMOUS ADJOURNMENT A motion was made by Commissioner Halkiotis seconded by Commissioner Foushee to adjourn at 9:33 a.m. VOTE: UNANIMOUS Barry Jacobs, Chair Donna S. Baker, CMC Clerk to the Board APPROVED 611 212 0 0 7 MINUTES ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS October 17, 2006 8:00 a.m. The Orange County Board of Commissioners met on Tuesday, October 17, 2006 at 8:00 a.m. at the Southern Human Services Center in Chapel Hill, N.C. COUNTY COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Chair Barry Jacobs, and Commissioners Moses Carey, Jr., Valerie P. Foushee, Alice Gordon and Stephen Halkiotis COUNTY COMMISSIONERS ABSENT: COUNTY STAFF PRESENT: Donna S. Baker, Clerk to the Board OTHERS PRESENT: Laura Blackmon A motion was made by Commissioner Halkiotis seconded by Commissioner Carey to go into closed session at 8:07 a.m.: "to consider the qualifications, competence, performance, character, fitness, conditions of appointment, or conditions of initial employment of an individual public officer or employee or prospective public officer or employee;" NCGS 143-318.11(a)(6). VOTE: UNANIMOUS The Clerk did not stay for the closed session. The Orange County Board of Commissioners met with County Manager candidate finalist Laura Blackmon. RECONVENE INTO REGULAR SESSION A motion was made by Commissioner Halkiotis seconded by Commissioner Foushee to reconvene into regular session at 9:33 a.m. VOTE: UNANIMOUS ADJOURNMENT A motion was made by Commissioner Halkiotis seconded by Commissioner Foushee to adjourn at 9:33 a.m. VOTE: UNANIMOUS Barry Jacobs, Chair Donna S. Baker, CMC Clerk to the Board APPROVED 11/14/2006 MINUTES ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING October 17, 2006 7:30 p.m. The Orange County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, October 17, 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 pulled all consent appointment items - 5-b (1-4). There was another suggestion to add an item after public comment for the appointment of the new County Manager. The Board agreed. Chair Jacobs reviewed the items at the County Commissioners' places. There was a new abstract for item 5-d-3. PUBLIC CHARGE The Chair dispensed with the reading of the public charge. 2. Public Comments a. Matters not on the Printed Agenda No comments. b. Matters an the Printed Agenda (These matters were considered when the Board addressed that item on the agenda below.) Chair Jacobs referred to the additional agenda abstract for the appointment of a new County Manager. He said that John Link announced his retirement in February and stepped down on August 31~. Rod Visser has been serving as Interim Manager. There is now a nominee to be appointed as the new Orange County Manager -Laura Blackmon. Ms. Blackmon comes from Osceola County, Florida. A motion was made by Commissioner Halkiotis. seconded by Commissioner Foushee to appoint Laura Blackmon to the position of Orange County Manager effective November 30, 2006 at a starting salary of $135,000, with other elements of compensation to be confirmed by the Board at the Board's November 2, 2006 regular meeting. Laura Blackmon said that she is looking forward to beginning work here and she is very excited about opportunities and said that the process was thorough and fair. Commissioner Halkiotis said that it is important to note that Laura Blackmon will be the first woman County Manager in the history of Orange County. He thinks this is significant. The other County Commissioners also welcomed Laura Blackmon. 3. Board Comments Commissioner Carey- no comments. Commissioner Foushee said that this past Thursday the Commission for Women and the Department for Human Rights and Relations held the 2006 Women's Agenda Assembly and it was very well attended, with 85 attendees. There were break out sessions and a prioritization of issues that affect women in Orange County. Commissioner Foushee said that the Housing and Community Development office is preparing advertisements for the remaining $1.4 million in 2001 bond funds for affordable housing. Applications from non-profit agencies are being solicited. Commissioner Halkiotis said that this past Monday he attended a meeting of the Friends of the Northern Orange Senior Center. He said that he helped the group stuff envelopes and they talked among themselves and the fellowship was interesting. He said that he does not want senior citizens having to raise money. He said that the discussion came up about how The Senior Times is distributed through the Durham Herald. People were asking why it was not distributed through the News of Orange or other venues. He was amazed to find out how many seniors do not know that there is a senior center in Hillsborough. He said that the Board had an issue with this several months ago when the seniors were being asked to help pay for the printing and the mailing of The Senior Times. The Manager was asked to put together a task force to look at all County publications and how there could be some consolidation and efficiencies. There were same reports, but the same thing is still being done. He does not want the seniors to be asked to pay for publications and mailings that County government has a responsibility to do. Commissioner Halkiotis said that he was at the Solid Waste Convenience Center this past weekend on NC 57 and there was a dumpster fire because someone dumped hot ashes. He said that there is no running water out there. The workers had to manually empty the dumpster to get to the hot ashes. He suggested at least having a barrel of water or sand to put out possible fires. Commissioner Halkiotis made reference to the passing of a fine, outstanding North Carolinian who died in Wake County on Saturday -State Representative Bernard Allen. Mr. Allen helped the teachers many years ago to get a teachers' supplement far OCS. He said that this gentleman cared about everybody. Commissioner Gordon commended Donna Coffey for getting a summary related to the capital and debt. This is an excellent summary of background information of capital funding and debt capacity. Commissioner Gordon said that the New Hope Park at Blackwood Farms Committee met and there was a lively discussion. There will probably have to be extra meetings. Commissioner Gordon said that the Transportation Advisory Committee met and Karen Lincoln will prepare summaries. The Transportation Improvement Program for 2007-2013 is on this agenda. The public hearing will be left open for written comments from Orange County. Commissioner Gordon made reference to six-mile districts for fire districts and said that Jeff Cabe from the Orange Rural Fire Department brought to her attention that the Board of County Commissioners has the authority to designate fire districts and prescribe the boundaries. She said that the current five-mile boundary maximum was extended to six miles effective January 1, 2001 for insurance purposes. She thanked Jeff Cabe for bringing this to her attention. She said that this would benefit citizens and she would like to put this through. She asked the Manager to come back with a process for this issue. Chair Jacobs said that he attended a meeting ten days ago regarding the Breeze Farm. He said that Colonel Breeze and this family gave mare than 200 acres to N.C. State for research purposes. Orange County staff has been working on developing proposals for how the parcel might be used. At the dedication last spring, the Dean of N. C. State's Agriculture School talked about sustainable agriculture and farm incubators. The staff met with representatives from N. C. State and it was a positive meeting. It seems likely that N. C. State is willing to partner with Orange County in some manner on sustainable agriculture and some incubator process so that people can get started in agriculture without having to buy land to do it. Chair Jacobs said that he spoke with Chapel Hill Mayor Kevin Foy about Southern Park and they talked about the exchange of letters and mutual concerns that Southern Park stays on track. He told Mayor Foy that the County Commissioners had passed a resolution that asked staff to work with Chapel Hill staff to find additional resources and/or phase the project so that it would continue to move forward and so that the $500,000 grant money is not lost. Chair Jacobs asked the Manager for a report on Carrboro's discussions of a moratorium. Orange County and Carrboro are supposed to be partners in joint planning, and he read about this in the paper. He thought that this was a lapse in communication and he would like to know what the process is for citizens to be involved. 4. County Manager's Report Rod Visser introduced some staff from the solid waste convenience centers -Leon Morrow, Grant Sellars, and Mike Jones. He said that these employees have been recognized by multiple citizens far providing outstanding customer service at the convenience centers, especially for senior citizens. Commissioner Halkiatis said that he highlighted Mr. Marrow because he is a goodwill ambassador. He said that there are 90,000 contacts a year at the NC 57 SWCC, and most citizens measure government through their contact at these centers. He said that Mr. Morrow has helped all citizens that cannot lift trash into the dumpsters. He thanked Leon Morrow publicly on behalf of the Board of County Commissioners and the citizens of Orange County. Rod Visser said that the first meeting of the Water Resources Work Group -comprised of three members each of the Board of Health and Commission far the Environment -has been set for November 21 ~. Andy Sachs from the Dispute Settlement Center will be facilitating that meeting along with department heads. Rod Visser said that the fire and rescue study draft was received a couple of months ago that was incomplete. It has been circulated to the volunteer departments for comments. Commissioner Gordon asked Rod Visser to get back to the Board about the six-mile boundary issue. She also asked about the timetable for the fire and rescue study. Rod Visser said that he did not know but he wanted to see what the volunteer departments have to say before bringing it back. 5. Items for 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. a. Minutes The Board approved the minutes from the September 12, 2006 Regular Meeting, September 14, 2006 Joint Meeting with the DSS Board, and September 14, 2006 BOCC Work Session as submitted by the Clerk to the Board. b. Appointments {1 j Adult Care Home Advisory Committee -One Reappointment The Board was to consider making one reappointment to the Adult Care Home Community Advisory Committee. PULLED {2j Affordable Housing Advisory Committee -Reappointment The Board was to consider making one reappointment to the Affordable Housing Advisory Board. PULLED (3j OUTBoard -Reappointments The Board was to consider making reappointments to the OUTBoard. PULLED (4j Personnel Hearing Board -Reappointments The Board was to consider making reappointments to the Personnel Hearing Board. PULLED c. Board of Commissioners Meeting Calendar for Year 2007 The Board approved the final schedule of regular meetings for the year 2007. d. Budget Amendment #4 The Board approved budget ordinance and grant project ordinance amendments for fiscal year 2006-07 for Non-Departmental-Critical Needs Reserve, Department on Aging, and OPC Mental Health Legal Support. e. Approval of Chapel Hill Carrboro City Schools Alternative Financed Capital Protect Ordinances far School Renovation Projects This item was removed and placed at the end of the consent agenda for separate consideration. f. Resolutions Providing Comments Regarding Draft 2007 - 2013 State Transportation Improvement Program 1STIP1 The Board endorsed the Resolution Providing Comments to the North Carolina Department of Transportation Regarding the Draft 2007-2013 State Transportation Improvement Program and the Resolution Providing Comments to the Durham-Chapel Hill-Carrboro Transportation Advisory Committee Regarding the Draft 2007-2013 Metropolitan Transportation Improvement Program. All resolutions are incorporated by reference. g_ Motor Vehicle Property Tax ReleaselRefunds The Board adopted a refund resolution, which is incorporated by reference, related to 46 requests for motor vehicle property tax releases or refunds in accordance with North Carolina General Statutes. VOTE ON CONSENT AGENDA: UNANIMOUS ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT AGENDA: e. Aapraval of Chapel Hill Carrboro City Schools Alternative Financed Capital Project Ordinances for School Renovation Projects The Board considered approving the Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools {CHCCS) alternative financed capital project ordinances for school renovation projects. Chair Jacobs said that he would like to know more details about what the Board is approving. He said that a citizen asked him about the Board funding a particular project from the CHCCS alternative financed capital project ordinances. Donna Coffey said that she would get details to him next week. Commissioner Halkiatis said that the same citizen emailed him as well about playground improvements at Carrboro Elementary School, and citizens need to understand that these are decisions by the Board of Education. Donna Coffey said that she has spoken to Steve Scroggs from CHCCS, who told her that Carrboro Elementary playground is in the ordinance as a project. A motion was made by Chair Jacobs, seconded by Commissioner Gordon to approve the Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools (CHCCS) alternative financed capital project ordinances for school renovation projects. VOTE: UNANIMOUS 6. Resolutions or Proclamations a. Domestic Violence Awareness Month The Board considered a proclamation recognizing October 2046 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Orange County. Commissioner Foushee read the resolution. A motion was made by Commissioner Carey, seconded by Commissioner Halkiotis to approve the proclamation recognizing October 2446 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Orange County. PROCLAMATION TO RECOGNIZE OCTOBER 2006 AS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH IN ORANGE COUNTY WHEREAS, domestic violence is a pattern of coercion and control in an intimate partner relationship where one person uses violence to gain power and control over their partner; and WHEREAS, domestic violence includes not only physical, but also mental abuse, emotional abuse, financial abuse, isolation and sexual abuse; and WHEREAS, according to the National Violence Against Women Survey, nearly 25 percent of American women report being raped andlar physically assaulted by a current or farmer spouse, partner, or date at some time in their lifetime; and WHEREAS, in North Carolina, according to the North Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence, at least 334 women, men, and children have been murdered as a result of domestic violence since January 1, 2442; and WHEREAS, in North Carolina, according to the North Carolina Council for Women/Domestic Violence Commission, domestic violence programs responded to over 144,444 crisis calls and provided services to over 544,440 victims last year; and WHEREAS, the health-related costs of rape, physical assault, stalking and homicide committed by intimate partners exceeded $5.8 billion each year; and WHEREAS, the key to prevention is focusing on first-time perpetration and first-time victimization: and WHEREAS, prevention strategies involve collaborations by multiple partners to promote social Harms, policies, and laws that support gender equity and foster intimate partnerships based on mutual respect, equality, and trust; NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved that the Orange County Board of Commissioners does hereby proclaim October 2006 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Orange Caunty and encourage residents to show suppart for victims and survivors of domestic violence and to send the message we are a community working together to end this violence. This the 17t" day of October 2006. VOTE: UNANIMOUS Donna Smith, Executive Director of Family Vialence Prevention Center of Orange County, thanked the County Commissioners and citizens for their support. 7. Special Presentations a. Recognition of Sarah Craige for Mural at Southern Human Services Center The Board recognized and thanked Sarah Craige for her commissioned piece "Tree of Life" at SHSC. Her the mural was commissioned by the Orange County Arts Commission and recently installed. Chair Jacobs said that there is now a mural on the inner wall of the lobby area from Sarah Craige, Roosevelt Sanford, and his son John Sanford. Economic Development Director Dianne Reid described the mural entitled The Tree of Life. She introduced Sarah Craige. Sarah Craige introduced the other artists and said that it was a great honor to be able to build a mural with a universal theme for the Southern Human Services Center. She said that this artwork celebrates life and every culture and every age should enjoy it. All County Commissioners added their thanks and admiration for the artwork. b. Recoanition of Oranae County Volunteer Public Safetv Oraanizations The Board recognized, honored, and presented plaques to the thirteen (13) Volunteer Fire, Rescue, and Ham Radio Amateurs' organizations that serve the residents of Orange County. Chair Jacobs said that he has attended the Fire Chief's Council for the past few meetings and there is teamwork among the departments. He said that Orange County is honored that these servants are willing to devote time and effort and to take risks. PUBLIC SAFETY VOLUNTEER ORGANIZATIONS AND CHIEFS/REPRESENTATIVE TO RECEIVE PLAQUE 1) Chief Andy Gates -Caldwell Fire Department 2} Chief Frank Berry -Cedar Grove Fire Department 3) Chief Kevin Brooks - Efland Fire Department 4) Chief David O'Dell -Eno Fire Department 5) Deputy Chief Brian Parker -New Hope Fire Department 6} Chief Tommy Holmes -Orange Grove Fire Department 7) Chief Jeff Cabe -Orange Rural Fire Department 8) Chief Jerry Llayd -White Crass Fire Department 9) Chief Mark Rigsbee -North Chatham Fire Department 10} Eric Solomon - Mebane Fire Department 11) Deputy Chief Nathan Huey -Orange County Rescue Squad 12) Chief Matthew Mauzy - Sauth Orange Rescue Squad 13} Raymond Woodward -Orange County Ham Radio Amateurs Chair Jacobs reminded everyone that there is an ice cream social for all of the members of the rescue squads, Ham Radio department, and fire departments so that they can be honored. The social is on Sunday, October 22nd from 2-4 p.m. behind the Sheriff's Office in Hillsborough, weather permitting. Commissioner Halkiotis thanked all of the volunteers for their service and said that this service saves the taxpayers money. He also thanked the Ham radio operators. c. ABC Board Report The Baard received a report an ABC operations in Orange Caunty from Dan Sykes, the General Manager for ABC in Orange County. Rod Visser thanked Dan Sykes for his quick turnaround of information and financials. He also recognized Tom Heffner, Chair of the ABC Board. Dan Sykes reviewed the report in the abstract. He said that the warehouse and main office complex in Hillsborough was built in 1959 and has been renovated twice. The land is insufficient for additional expansion. The lease for the facility in Chapel Hill expires in a few years, and it is preferable to purchase land and build a facility. There are also several ABC stores that were built in the 197Q's and require updating. Regarding financial infarmation, the available cash and certificates of deposit was $1.4 million, the working capital was $1.86 million, and there is same excess cash to finance future expansions, replacement of leased facilities, and modernization of existing facilities. He explained the income statement and graphs. There is a consideration of using computer technology to capture customers' zip code information. This would be used to target advertising and geographical areas for future locations. Commissioner Halkiotis made reference to the liquor sales and that they have been going up steadily for the last few years. He asked about the distribution piece and the required distribution by the State that is $3.19 per student. Dan Sykes said that this is not required, but it is what the school systems ask for. Based on the income, the school systems received $5.06. Commissioner Halkiotis asked more clarifying questions that were answered by Dan Sykes. Commissioner Carey said that in 2003-2006!07 the ABC board sales have gone from $9 to $12 million and the profits have gone from $700,000 to $976,000, but the general fund distribution has stayed the same. Dan Sykes said that there has been little left over from the years to do upgrades on their stores. Chair Jacobs asked about the warehouse and size that was needed and Dan Sykes said about 12,000 square feet, including office space. Tom Heffner said that the school systems come each year to make a proposal and the CHCCS request is usually higher and the higher amount is given to both school systems. He said that there is a good, close working relationship. He said that within the next six to twelve months, the general fund distributions will be increasing. Commissioner Halkiotis requested that the ABC Board work closely with Economic Development Director Dianne Reid when moving forward on a new warehouse. Commissioner Halkiotis said that healthcare costs and haw you treat your employees and retirees is a measure of the kind of organization you are. He said that Orange County has always prided itself in taking care of its employees. He said that the County Commissioners went on record several years ago to say that they could live with the general fund stream at the current level as long as the employees were taken care of. Chair Jacobs asked Tom Heffner to thank the other ABC Board members. d. Stillhause Creek Restoration Project The Board received a presentation on the Stillhouse Creek Restoration Project, a joint venture of Orange County, the N.C. Ecosystem Enhancement Program, and the U.S. Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS)/Orange Soil and Water District and provided feedback as desired. Chair Jacobs said that this creek has been transformed behind the Government Services Center. District Conservationist from USDA Brent Bogue said that this project has been a long process. It first came under consideration in early 2001. Some of the main concerns were the erosion problems under Margaret Lane and the foundation of the Government Services Center. Early on it was decided that this needed to be a natural project and to use bio-engineering, which involved using rock and native plants along the streambed. The construction phase is completed and the project will be protected in the perpetual easement, which will be donated by the County and held by the State Ecosystem Enhancement Program. The design work was done through the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service and the State Division of Soil and Water Conservation. Local staff and the Division of Soil and Water oversaw the construction. He said that the orange construction fence should come down this winter when vegetation begins to die back. They are planning to use this area as an environmental education tool and an outdoor laboratory. There will also be coordination of a Friends of Stillhouse Creek group to monitor the plants and water quality. He thanked the County Commissioners for donating the easement. Chair Jacobs expressed appreciation for the goad work on this project. e. certiticate of Achievement for excellence in Financial Keportinq The Board recognized the staff of the Orange County Finance Department for earning the Government Finance Officers' Association (GFOA) Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2005 and presented the plaque provided by the GFOA. Rod Visser said that this is an annual achievement that should never be taken far granted. He said that each year as the audit is submitted, the standards are raised. Finance Director Ken Chaviaus recognized his staff members -Deb Smith, who has been there 24 years and makes sure that all employees get paid; Howard Fitz, the drafter and the only CPA in the staff; Shari Raspberry; Tina Perry, Michelle Brooks; and Helen Miller. All County Commissioners added commendations to the Finance Department. 8. Public Hearings-NONE 9. Items for Decision--Regular Agenda a. Approval of Final Plans for CHCCS Elementary #10 The Board reviewed and considered approving final plans for the construction of Elementary School #10 in the Chapel Hill-Carrboro City School (CHCCS} system and authorizing the Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools to solicit bids for the construction of a 90,229- square foot elementary school. Rod Visser said that elementary school #10 will be located on the northern portion of a 193-acre parcel that the County owns near the intersection of Eubanks Road and old NC 86. The design of this school is a prototype for Rashkis Elementary in the Meadawmont development. The Board of County Commissioners considered the conceptual design in June and this design is going through the development review process with the Town of Carrboro. The Board has asked Jeff Thompson, who has worked for the County on other projects, to look at site costs and design standards and possible cost savings. Mr. Thompson has written his comments in the abstract. If the Board approves the final design, the school board will advertise far construction bids for the project. The general timeline is development approval by the Town of Carrboro sometime in December. The Board of County Commissioners will consider the approval of the final project budget and the capital project ordinance at the January 23, 2007 meeting. Commissioner Halkiatis asked how the County could behave, within existing statutes and expectations, in a manner that they do not tell the construction community exactly how much money the school system has to give for a school. He made reference to paragraph 2 in Jeff Thompson's memo and he read, "Orange County and CHCCS must protect and defend their internal planning budgets and allocated development and construction funds against a construction marketplace that will `price' any budget expectation into its contract to services pricing at bid time." He thinks that this is what has killed the County over the years. He wants to take advantage of this the way the private sector has done it. He encouraged both school systems to take advantage of this as well. Rod Visser added that CHCCS staff has been great in working with Orange County staff and Jeff Thompson in this process. Commissioner Foushee commended all for this collaborative effort. She asked CHCCS Chair Lisa Stuckey to speak about whether this meets board approval. Lisa Stuckey said that as far as she knows it does meet board approval. She thinks that in this instance she has seen productive collaboration between all entities. Commissioner Gordon commended the collaboration by all parties and said that the timeline would track with the 2008-09 school year. PUBLIC COMMENT: Mark Peters spoke on behalf of the PTA Council for CHCCS. He said that he is delighted to hear about moving this process forward and he thanked the Board of County Commissioners. Chair Jacobs pointed out that this is a very good working example of collaboration in Orange County between the school systems and the County Commissioners. He said that he appreciates how cooperative and enthusiastic everyone has been with this project. He said, to those that raised alarms that the County Commissioners would not do this when they said they would do it, that everyone should be assured that the County Commissioners will meet their responsibilities and commitment to provide quality public education in a timely manner, unlike a County that will have a $970 million bond issue in several weeks because it is so far behind. He said that it is the commitment of this Board to keep up. A motion was made by Commissioner Foushee, seconded by Commissioner Halkiotis to approve final plans for the construction of Elementary School #10 in the Chapel Hill-Carrboro City School (CHCCS) system and authorize the Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools to solicit bids for the construction of a 90,229-square foot elementary school consistent with the accompanying plans. VOTE: UNANIMOUS b. Consultant Contract -Education Facilities Impact Fees Technical Report The Board considered authorizing the negotiation of a contract with Tischler and Associates, Inc. for professional services related to analyzing and updating the County's Education Facilities Impact Fee Ordinance. Planning Director Craig Benedict summarized this item. He said that the Board decided to use 60°~ of the maximum supportable impact fee for both school systems. There is an opportunity to work with Tischler and Associates again on a contract not to exceed $60,000 to update the impact fee ordinance. Chair Jacobs made reference to the fire and rescue study and haw there should be a definitive deadline for performance and asked how this would be incorporated into this contract. The Manager will work with the County Attorney on this language and it will be brought back on a consent agenda. A motion was made by Commissioner Gordon, seconded by Commissioner Carey to direct staff to negotiate a contract with Tischler and Associates to perform the outlined scope of work for an amount not to exceed $60,000, and authorize the Manager to sign the resulting contract. VOTE: UNANIMOUS c. Homestead Road Campus Master Plan Approval The Board considered approving a conceptual master plan for the Southern Human Services Center (SHSC} property. Purchasing and Central Services Director Pam Janes said that 15 years ago the County started looking for land in Chapel Hill to purchase and begin consolidation of County operations at the southern end of the County. Several pieces of property were examined, and the Southern Human Services Center land was chosen. Orange County consolidated the Department of Social Services, Health Department, Housing and Community Development, and a unit of the Child Support Enforcement office. She pointed out the map with the Homestead Road property. There is a possibility that a dental clinic could be located an this site. The last space is the existing house. The original proposal was to have this as a conference center with a group of meeting rooms. In addition, the human services agencies have asked to use this house for afamily-friendly meeting space. There are some trails around this area. Also, Project Homestart is on a 25-year lease in the northwest corner of this property. A cultural and archaeological survey was conducted on the site on the areas that could have buildings. There were no significant findings. Commissioner Halkiotis said that this little house has been under discussion for 14 years. He thinks that it is a shame that 14 years has been lost regarding this facility. He suggested issuing a challenge to the new County Manager to bring this to a conclusion. He said that this is government at its worse. Commissioner Carey agreed with Commissioner Halkiotis about this house. He said that the last time this was discussed, the projected cost of upfitting the facility to meeting room standards was so high that the County Commissioners decided not to do anything. If the house is left to sit there, it will be a constraint to the development of other buildings on the site. He suggested finding a way to move this house off site for someone to use it as affordable housing. This would give more flexibility in using the site. Pam Janes said that with the house removed, there are significant hardwoods around the house, but they could be protected and survive with additional construction. Chair Jacobs would like to see the alternatives since he has seen haw the trees have been treated with the construction of the senior center. He wants to be sure that the Board will protect these hardwoods. He asked staff to bring back alternatives with costs. Commissioner Carey agreed with protecting the hardwoods. PUBLIC COMMENT: Anne Henley spoke about the Inter-Faith Council's interest in the use of the Homestead campus. She thanked the Board of County Commissioners for its support of IFC, especially the Homestar program. She said that at an Assembly of Governments meeting last spring Commissioner Halkiotis suggested that Orange County property on Homestead Road be considered as a location for the proposed men's residential facility and perhaps other IFC operations. Pursuant to that suggestion, IFC members and government representatives met on July 19th, and the consensus was that IFC was to make a formal request to the Board of County Commissioners far some portion of the Homestead Road campus to be made available to IFC. IFC made this request and received a response from Chair Jacobs. She said that IFC appreciates the opportunity to request that I FC be a factor in the discussions of uses of the property. She pointed out three facts: anew men's residential facility is a key element for IFC's future role and viability in serving the homeless {term of occupancy is limited for the building in Chapel Hill), IFC has actively considered every reasonably located site proposed and to date all efforts have been unsuccessful, and IFC needs Orange County officials and other units of government to help IFC secure a location for this facility. Commissioner Gordan said that Orange County has not really considered all possibilities of County property for an IFC shelter. She said that she talked with Lee Pavao, President of the Friends of the Senior Center, and who has surveyed some seniors. There were some concerns about this residential facility being near the senior center. The concerns were that since food would be served at their center, this may be a draw for the homeless; there would be an increase in nighttime activities; and since Program Homestart is located nearby, there is concern about the families involved in this as some of them are victims of domestic violence. She said that the County Commissioners never directed staff to see if there are any other suitable County properties far IFC. She suggested asking Pam Jones and staff to see if there are alternative properties. She thinks it is important to see, if the men's facility were located here, how it would mesh with the senior center and Project Homestart. Chair Jacobs said that the next steps would be to ask staff to engage Chapel Hill more aggressively in talking about the old post office and its long-term viability as a court facility. If Chapel Hill really supports moving the men's shelter out of its facility, then some of the people could be moved from the Moody Building into the old past office. He suggested that staff come back to the Board in a timely manner with an analysis, and contact Chapel Hill on where it sees the old post office going. Also, he would like to solicit comment from Social Services, Health, and Aging about the alternatives for the Homestead Road campus. Commissioner Halkiotis said that when Project Homestart was first proposed, there were concerns back then about locating it on this campus. He is not sure there are any government- sponsored facilities that do not raise concerns. He agreed with Chair Jacobs. Chris Moran said that IFC thought about how they would separate the facilities and how to operate services and the biggest concern was mixing gender populations under one roof. He said that it is a great management situation to have two facilities relatively close together. He said that safety is IFC's primary concern. The IFC staff will be in communication with Orange County staff and others to alleviate the concerns. Chair Jacobs suggested giving staff until November 14t" for an analysis of the house, to talk with Chapel Hill, and convene relevant staff with IFC to talk about the request. Rod Visser said that the staff would try to accomplish this by November 14t" Commissioner Carey said to include housing organizations in the discussions about partnering with moving the house. Commissioner Carey left at 9:50 p.m. Chair Jacobs said that he had brought up the issue of protecting the trees, including the pine trees that are closest to the Southern Human Services Center, and the County Commissioners were assured that the fence would be moved away from the roots of the trees when it was necessary. The fence was moved, but now a huge piece of construction equipment is parked on the roots of the pine trees. He asked that this equipment be moved. d. Appointments {1) Advisorv Board on Aging -New Appointments The Board considered making appointments to the Advisory Board an Aging. A motion was made by Commissioner Gordon, seconded by Commissioner Halkiotis to appoint Peggy Cohn and Diane Henderson to the Advisory Board an Aging to first full terms ending June 30, 2009. A motion was made by Chair Jacobs, seconded by Commissioner Halkiotis to appoint Tammy Thacker to the Advisory Board on Aging to a first full term ending June 30, 2009. VOTE: UNANIMOUS {2j Eno EDD Small Area Plan Taskforce -New Appointment The Board considered making an appointment to the Eno EDD Small Area Plan Taskforce. A motion was made by Commissioner Gordon, seconded by Commissioner Halkiotis to appoint Brian Crawford to be the Planning Board representative an the Ena EDD Small Area Plan Taskforce. VOTE: UNANIMOUS (3} Board of Health -Engineer Appointment The Board considered making an appointment to the Board of Health. A motion was made by Commissioner Gordon, seconded by Commissioner Halkiotis to appoint Ernest Dodson to the Engineer Position an the Board of Health to a first full term ending June 30, 2009. VOTE: UNANIMOUS (4} Information Technology Advisorv Board -New Appointment The Board considered making an appointment to the Information Technology Advisory Board. A motion was made by Commissioner Foushee, seconded by Commissioner Halkiotis to appoint Orlando Metcalf to the Information Technology Advisory Board to a term ending December 31.2009. VOTE: UNANIMOUS (5j New Hope Park at Blackwood Farm Taskforce The Board considered making an appointment to the New Hope Park at Blackwood Farm taskforce. A motion was made by Commissioner Halkiotis, seconded by Commissioner Gordon to appoint Joel Knight to be the Planning Board representative to the New Hope Park at Blackwood Farm Taskforce. VOTE: UNANIMOUS (6~ Nursina Home Community Advisory Committee -New Appointments The Board considered making appointments to the Nursing Home Community Advisory Committee. A motion was made by Commissioner Foushee, seconded by Commissioner Halkiotis to appoint Anne Winfield and Carol Hierman to the Nursing Home Community Advisory Committee to one-year training terms ending December 31, 2007. VOTE: UNANIMOUS (7) Recreation and Parks Advisory Council -New Appointment The Board considered making an appointment to the Recreation and Parks Advisory Council. A motion was made by Commissioner Gordon, seconded by Commissioner Foushee to appoint Ingrid Medcalf to the Recreation and Parks Advisory Council to a partial term ending March 31.2008. VOTE: UNANIMOUS 10. Reports a. County Eneray Conservation Efforts The Board received a report concerning the County's energy conservation activities to date and proposed action plan items during 200612007. Public Works Assistant Director Wayne Fenton made a PawerPoint presentation. Orange County Energy & Fuel Conservation Update Report to BOCC October 17, 2006 Purpose Tonight ^ Review energy and fuel conservation related accomplishments to date ^ Review energy conservation action plan items in progress and planned Background ^ Energy Task Group established September 2005 -provides guidance on energy conservation needs and approaches ^ Energy Conservation Policy adopted by BOCC, December 2005 ^ Energy Conservation Team established February 2006 Policy Scope Applies to: ^ All County owned and leased buildings ^ Energy-consuming equipment and devices used by County (including computers) ^ Electricity, natural gas, propane gas and fuel oil EducationlOutreach ^ A112006 New Employee Orientation sessions ^ Several Employee Consortium meetings ^ Department Head meeting update/reminders ^ Initial meeting with Clerk of Courts ^ Participation on Environmental Stewardship Action Committee EducationlOutreach - cant'd ^ Intranet site established - http://server. co. orange. nc, uslEnergyfndex. asp ^ Energy e-mail address established -energy@co.orange.nc.us ^ Energy telephone hotline - TBD ^ "Change a Light Bulb" pledge Reminder signs (pictures} Reminder cards (picture) Measuring Success We are looking for: ^ Straight reduction in baseline energy use (office equipment, lighting, etc.) ^ Reduction in HVAC related use after adjustment far temperature variances Baseline Energy Office Equipment ^ Appraximately 840 computers in use ^ Approximately 780 network printers, plus estimated 200 personal printers ^ Approximately 60 photocopiers Computer Related ^ 1. T. investigating opportunities to remotely activate energy conserving features for monitors ^ Reporting for computers left running ^ Selection criteria far future PC vendors to include Energy Star performance ratings Computer Energy Costs ^ CPU & CRT monitor use approx. $21/year during normal business hours - approx, $20, 000/year for 800 PG's ^ Each PC left running evenings and weekends would waste approx. $58/year ^ Eliminating the ~ 20% of 800 PG's left running evenings & weekends could save almost $10, 000/year Baseline Energy Lighting ^ One 2' x 4' fluorescent light fixture with four tubes (T8) uses 128 watts of power ^ One 2' x 4' fixture uses approx. $22 of electricity/year during normal business hours ^ Example: Southern Human Svcs Center contains approx. 226 of these fixtures Lighting Energy Costs ^ De-tamping one tube per fixture = 25 % energy reduction ^ Each fixture left on evenings & weekends wastes approx. $60/year Lighting Improvements ^ De-tamping ^ Change T-12 bulbslballasts (34 watts/tube) to T-8 (32 watts/tube) ^ Replace incandescent, quartz, etc. bulbs/fixtures with compact fluorescents (i.e., Northern Human Services Center exterior lights) ^ Occupancy sensors HVAC Related ^ Programmable thermostats & digital controls ^ Temperature ranges & off-hour setbacks ^ Annual weatherization inspections and remediation ^ Window replacements -Central Recreation ^ Scheduled, routine preventive maintenance Other ^ Wafer heater temperature set backs ^ Water heater timers ^ Water heater insulating blankets Energy Conservation - "HowAre We Doing?" Fluctuations from month-to-month, but overall, reductions in electricity and natural gas usage compared to one year ago Draft action plan reviewed with Energy Task Group for 2006-2007 initiatives Larger/longer term items to be brought forward during 2007-2008 budget cycle, including recommendations for Northern Human Services Center Fuel Conservation - EducationlOutreach Education/Outreach - cant'd ^ All 2006 New Employee Orientation sessions ^ Several Employee Consortium meetings ^ Department Head meeting updatel reminders ^ Initial meeting with Clerk of Courts ^ Participation on Environmental Stewardship Action Committee Fuel Conservation - "How Are We Doing?" ^ Increased diesel use due to more diesel vehicles in service ^ Fluctuations from month-to-month, department-to-department, but overall, reductions in gasoline usage compared to one year ago Commissioner Halkiotis commended the energy team of Wayne Fenton, Kevin Lindley, and Naah Ranells far putting together ahome-grown energy conservation team. He suggested giving every employee of Orange County government a compact fluorescent bulb. He said that he changed out all of his bulbs to compact fluorescents and saw a big difference in his electric bill. Chair Jacobs volunteered to work with the group once Commissioner Halkiotis retires. Commissioner Gordon commended the group and echoed Commissioner Halkiotis' comments. She also commended Commissioner Halkiotis for all of his work with this energy team and work group. Commissioner Faushee commended the team and also Commissioner Halkiotis for being a good coach. She said that it would be good for the County Commissioners to get the reminder energy cards. Wayne Fenton said that the energy team also thanks Commissioner Halkiotis. Chair Jacobs reminded the County Commissioners that they adopted an environmental responsibility goal for County government before the group was started, but no traction was made until the Manager recommended a $300,OQ0 increase in expense money for electricity and fuel. The County Commissioners then decided to save the money by using conservation measures. Chair Jacobs said to include the County Commissioners when Wayne Fenton sends out emails to staff. He also suggested having discussions about haw the energy email address and the phone number can also be shared with the public. There could even be a "Tip of the Week" on the phone number about ways of reducing energy. Chair Jacobs asked for a report at the next meeting how the CNG fueling facility is going. Chair Jacobs asked about green power and Wayne Fenton said that his understanding is that it is a tax incentive where a portion of the payments will go toward green paver. Chair Jacobs said that he would be glad to discuss this and he wants to know if other governments are doing this. 11. Closed Session A motion was made by Commissioner Foushee, seconded by Commissioner Halkiotis to go into closed session at 1Q:23 p.m. for the purpose of: "Ta discuss the County's position and to instruct the County Manager and the County Attorney on the negotiating position regarding the terms of a contract to purchase real property for county office buildings and property for solid waste purposes, " NCGS 143-318.11 (a) {5) VOTE: UNANIMOUS RECONVENE INTO REGULAR SESSION: A motion was made by Commissioner Halkiotis seconded by Commissioner Foushee to reconvene back into regular session at 11:05 p.m. VOTE: UNANIMOUS 12. Adjournment A motion was made by Commissioner Halkiotis, seconded by Commissioner Foushee to adjourn the meeting at 11:05 p.m. VOTE: UNANIMOUS Barry Jacobs, Chair Donna S. Baker, CMC Clerk to the Board Orange County water supply reservoir water levels Available information as of 2:00 PM, Tuesday, October 12, 2006 Lake Orange • Water level at 18.5" below full. • Water storage capacity remaining is 84.8% {403 million gallons) • Approximately 127 days of water supply remaining (at Capacity Use specified release rate) • Current Eno River flow at the Hillsborough gage is averaging approximately 3.3 cfs {2.13 million gallons per day}. • Releases from Lake Orange remain at lower than usual levels as the greater portion of instream flow has been natural flow generated by recent rainfall events. • Eno River Capacity Use Restrictions at Stage 1 have been in effect since August 5, 2006. West Fork Reservoir • Water level is at 9.6" below full • Water storage capacity remaining is 97.1 % • In excess of 300 days of water supply remaining {assuming Town's current daily demand and releases for streamflow augmentation}. OWASA Reservoirs • Water level at Cane Creek Reservoir is 33.8" below full -see note 1. • Water level at University Lake is 31.5" below full -see note 1. • Total remaining water storage capacity is approximately 83.2% • Approximately 300 days of water supply remaining {at current 7-day average daily demand 9.0 million gallons per dayJ) -see Hate 1. National Weather 5ervicelNOAA Regional Precipitation data (inches above [+l or below [-~ normal RDU -6.34" for 2005 +4.15" since January 1, 2006 +4.09" since September 1, 2006 Piedmont-Triad -9.94" for 2005 +5.34" since January 1, 2006 +2.35" since September 1, 2006 Miscellaneous notes 1. OWASA website data on reservoir levels and water demand last updated 10/11!06. 2. The NC Drought Management Advisory Council drought map, updated September 28tH shows Orange County -and all of the state with the exception of the extreme southwest corner - to be in an area categorized as normal in terms of rainfall. APPROVED 6112!2007 MINUTES ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS October 17, 2006 The Orange County Board of Commissioners met on Tuesday, October 17, 2006, Southern Human Services Center in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. COUNTY COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Chair Barry Jacobs, and Commissioners Valerie P. Foushee, Alice M. Gordon, and Stephen H. Halkiatis COUNTY COMMISSIONERS ABSENT: Moses Carey, Jr. COUNTY ATTORNEY PRESENT: Geoffrey Gledhill COUNTY STAFF PRESENT: Interim County Manager Rod Uisser 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. A motion was made by Commissioner Foushee seconded by Commissioner Halkiotis to go into closed session at 10:23 p.m. far the purpose: "To discuss the County's position and to instruct the County Manager and the County Attorney on the negotiating position regarding the terms of a contract to purchase real property for county office buildings and property for solid waste purposes," NCGS 143- 318.11 (a) (5) VOTE: UNANIMOUS OTHER STAFF PRESENT: Pam Jones GATEWAY BUILDING Geof Gledhill said that it is now being proposed to revise the letter of intent between Orange County and Telesis Construction Management, LLC to provide for Orange County leasing the top two floors of the Gateway Building for one year plus one day after completion of the building, and after this lease is up, Orange County will have the option of purchasing the portion of the building it leases. Geof Gledhill said that the only difference in this proposal as opposed to the previous draft letter of intent is that the Gateway Building would be a separate construction project from the rest of the "County Campus" project and that Orange County can walk away from the Gateway project after the one year lease is up, if it so chooses. This is being proposed so that Weaver Street Market can stay in the proposed project and Orange County does not have to be involved with any of the Weaver Street Market project construction. Geof Gledhill said that he has cleaned up the draft letter of intent, with this new negotiating paint in there and it will be ready to go to public hearing on November 2nd the Board so desires. Geof Gledhill said the pricing is still $23.5 million for the entire "County Campus" and he and staff met with the LGC and the LGC did not have a problem with the structure of this deal but staff and the LGC have not "landed an" a financing plan yet. There are, however, ways to do the financing and staff will be meeting again with the LGC to discuss the details. The consensus of the Board was for Geof Gledhill to prepare this item to go forward to public hearing on November 2~d. Commissioner Gordon said that she felt that she had not had enough time to review and process all of the information presented to the Board tonight and she would be reviewing the information in depth before the public hearing. SOLID WASTE PROPERTY Rod Visser said that staff received a letter back in September 2006 from Mr. Roy Wilkerson in reference to his offering of a possible property site for a solid waste convenience center (since Orange County had to vacate the Hwy 57 site) but he wanted $85,000/acre for 6 acres. Therefore, staff opted to look at other possible sites for a SWCC. One site they have looked at is Mr. Kirby's property the asking price for which is $10,000/acre. Another option is the Crabtree property, adjacent to the Walnut Grove Church Road properly. This is an 18 acre parcel and is listed for sale for $145,000- $150,000. This site could be used as a temporary site that could be turned into a permanent site in 90 days for a SWCC. The staff asked the Board for authorization to negotiate with Mr. Crabtree up to $150,000 far this 18-acre parcel ($8100/acre). The staff said that Mr. Crabtree liked the concept plan offered by Orange County. Pam Jones said that Mr. Crabtree would still like the option to be able to use one portion of the property for his cattle, when it is not being used for storm debris storage ar other County uses. Rod Visser said this location is close to North Carolina Highway 86, had good access and is close to both Little River Township and Cedar Grove Township. And the advantage to the County of owning, instead of rentinglleasing aSWCC site, is that the County can't lose its lease. A motion was made by Commissioner Gordon seconded by Commissioner Halkiotis to authorize staff to negotiate a contract with Mr. Crabtree for up to $150,000 for this 18- acre parcel for a SWCC. VOTE: UNANIMOUS RECONVENE INTO REGULAR SESSION: A motion was made by Commissioner Halkiotis seconded by Commissioner Foushee to reconvene to Regular Session at 11:05 p.m. VOTE: UNANIMOUS Adjournment A motion was made by Commissioner Halkiotis seconded by Commissioner Foushee to adjourn the meeting at 11:05 p.m. VOTE: UNANIMOUS Barry Jacobs, Chair Donna S. Baker, CMC Clerk to the Board