HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - 20061212
APPROVED 2/6/2007
MINUTES
ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING
December 12, 2006
7:30 p.m.
The Orange County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday,
December 12, 2006 at 7:30 p.m. at the Southern Human Services Center, in Chapel Hill, North
Carolina.
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Chair Moses Carey, Jr., and Commissioners
Valerie P. Foushee, Alice M. Gordon, Barry Jacobs, and Mike Nelson
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS ABSENT:
COUNTY ATTORNEYS PRESENT: Geoffrey Gledhill
COUNTY STAFF PRESENT: County Manager Laura Blackmon, Assistant Caunty
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.
Chair Carey called the meeting to order at 7:33 p.m.
1. Additions or Chanaes to the Aaenda
Chair Carey requested to remove item 5-j and consider it in January, because of some
of the questions that have been raised by at least one Commissioner.
Chair Carey reviewed the items in front of the County Commissioners. He requested
that the salmon-colored sheet be added to the end of the decision agenda as item 9-g. This
item is related to the confirmation of the land swap pertaining to the Fairview Public Campus
Master Plan. The Town of Hillsborough considered it last night and approved it, with one small
change. This item has been discussed previously by the Board of County Commissioners.
Commissioner Nelson said that he would not abject to adding this to the agenda
because it has already been discussed, but in general, he does not feel comfortable adding
items to the agenda at the last minute because the County Commissioners have not had a
chance to study them and the public and the press would not have known about it. Chair Carey
said that he thinks that all of the County Commissioners agree with this and it is a policy that is
usually followed. This is an exception because the Board has already discussed it.
Commissioner Jacobs made reference to item 9-c, the Hillsborough/Orange County
Strategic Growth Plan, and said that Commissioner Hallman was in attendance and might want
to stay to the end and comment on item 9-g.
Chair Carey pointed out the communication memo from the Planning Director about the
Hillsborough Strategic Growth Plan. There was also a press release related to the 2006
Goadmon Award winners. Commissioner Gordon received this award.
There was also a yellow sheet, which was a revised Schools Adequate Public Facilities
Approval of Membership Capacity Numbers (item 5-k).
PUBLIC CHARGE
The Chair dispensed with the reading of the public charge.
2. Public Comments
a. Matters not on the Printed Agenda
Holly Reid is part of the Walkable Hillsborough Coalition. She said that they are very
concerned about connectivity in Hillsborough and are very excited about the judicial campus
and the library. However, as the maps stand now, there is not complete connectivity with
crosswalks and sidewalks between the judicial campus and the new County campus. She said
that the coalition would love to see this connectivity. Also, she is President of the Eno River
Association and Robin Jacobs is the Executive Director. She said that this association is 40
years old and the oldest land trust in North Carolina. They have worked hard to protect land in
Orange County and Durham County, for a total of 2,500 acres in Orange County. She thanked
the County Commissioners for their support and partnership. She gave the County
Commissioners a calendar.
b. Matters on the Printed Agenda
(These matters were considered when the Board addressed that item on the agenda
below.)
3. Board Comments
Commissioner Foushee wished all a happy and healthy holiday season.
Commissioner Jacobs joined Commissioner Foushee in best greetings of the season.
He said that the Human Relations Commission is soliciting nominations for the Pauli Murray
Awards. The deadline is January 16`". There are awards for businesses, youths, and
individuals.
Commissioner Jacobs asked the Chair to be in touch with the Chair of the CHCCS
Board regarding Elementary School #10. Commissioner Foushee was nominated to participate
in this process and she has not heard anything about the process so far. He wants to reiterate
this policy of having a Commissioner at the table. Chair Carey said that he would follow up with
the Chair of the CHCCS Board.
Commissioner Jacobs asked Laura Blackmon about the process of developing a
schedule for the space allocation in the new and existing County facilities. Laura Blackmon said
that she met with Purchasing and Central Services Director Pam Jones yesterday to go over the
documentation. She said that the Board had asked the staff to talk with advisory boards and
commissions and the input should be back in early January. It will probably be February before
this information can come to the County Commissioners.
Commissioner Nelson wished everyone a happy new year.
Commissioner Gordon wished all a happy holiday. She said that she spoke with Tony
Waldrop of the University of North Carolina at a social event and he told her that he would
welcome another tour of Orange County.
Commissioner Gordon also attended an event honoring Rev. J. R. Manley, who has
been the pastor of First Baptist Church in Chapel Hill for 60 years. David Price was the
speaker.
Commissioner Gordon said that she also saw Jamezetta Bedford, the new Chair of
CHCCS Board and Ms. Bedford said that she would be happy for the County Commissioners to
tour the new high school.
Chair Carey said that the County Commissioners have been asked by the Town of
Hillsborough to consider changing the joint meeting date from February 15t" to another date. He
thinks that the Progress Energy Forum has been scheduled for this same evening. He will be
working with the Clerk to find another date for this joint meeting.
Chair Carey said that the legislative goals meeting with the local delegation is scheduled
in early February and there is not another regular BOCC meeting until late January. In the past,
the Board has asked Commissioner Jacobs and Commissioner Halkiotis to work on a set of
draft legislative goals. He asked for volunteers to work with staff on the legislative goals.
Commissioners Nelson and Gordon volunteered.
Chair Carey said that Commissioner Gordan received the 2006 Goodmon Award from
the Leadership Triangle organization for "Exemplary Regional Leadership by An Elected
Official". There was a press release handout that he cited. He said that Commissioner Gordon
received this award because she has consistently transcended jurisdictional lines for the
advancement of the Triangle. She was recognized for her leadership on environmental and
transportation issues, including the creation and institution of the Orange County Lands Legacy
Program to protect critical lands and serving as a leader of regional transportation policy boards
(Chair of Triangle Transit Authority and the Durham-Chapel Hill-Carrboro Metropolitan Planning
Organization.)
Commissioner Gordon thanked the people that emailed and called her today.
4. County Manager's Report
Laura Blackmon referred to the memo on the resurfacing program. Planning Director
Craig Benedict brought in the map.
Laura Blackmon said that today there was a conference call with Durham Tech on the
new facility that is being built in Hillsborough. A couple of issues have come up with this.
Initially, there was no proposed sprinkler system for this facility, but the Town of Hillsborough is
requesting that this be included. After discussing this with Durham Tech, it was felt that it was a
code requirement that would be a good concept to include. There will be a change order for
this. Also, the Board had initially approved a change order for the inclusion of rainwater to be
used in the sewer system. The Hillsborough Sewer Treatment facility has a policy where they
do not accept gray water. The staff is trying to discuss with Hillsborough about whether it would
be able to accept rainwater that would come off the roof of the facility. Durham Tech officials
believe that this is a code issue that could not be overcome. She asked if the Board would
rescind this change order.
Chair Carey said that this is a significant item and he is shocked that the County has not
found out about this until now. Laura Blackmon said that they learned about this water problem
today. They are still trying to negotiate with the Town of Hillsborough. The rainwater collection
would be a significant cast, and if it is not used, then the money could be used far the sprinkler
system .
Chair Carey said that both of these items could have cost effects and he asked the
Board to authorize him and the Vice-Chair to work with the Manager on this because he feels
that more time is needed to work through this over the next few days.
Commissioner Jacobs said that he does not remember if they were going to use
waterless urinals, and if so, maybe the gray water could be used in the sprinkler system. Also,
there is an agreement being negotiated with Durham to potentially treat its wastewater and
water, and this might cover whether Durham would accept gray water far treatment. He
believes that Hillsborough is supposed to get a report in January. The timing may not work, but
it would be worth considering.
The Chair and the Vice-Chair will work with the Manager on this issue.
Laura Blackmon said that she met with Steve Savia from the Sage Group, who did the
fire and rescue study. There was a copy of the working draft document. She told Mr. Savia that
the County Commissioners would review this and staff would report back to the Board in
January on a recommendation to proceed.
Commissioner Jacobs said that he was concerned about same of the things that he read
that Mr. Savia said in the newspaper. The County Commissioners approved this with the idea
that it would be done last fiscal year. He said that Mr. Savia seemed to think that there was no
time limit. He said that whatever is paid, it should not be the full amount because performance
was not what was requested.
Commissioner Gordon said that she was made aware that there were some
departments and areas missing in the report. She said that there is a straightforward way to get
six-mile fire districts. Insurance rates can go dawn for people within the fire districts. She would
like to take advantage of the possibility of doing six-mile fire districts. Laura Blackmon said that
the staff is pursuing this.
Laura Blackmon said that Andy Sachs has been making appointments with the County
Commissioners in preparation far the retreat in January. The goal is to get these meetings
finished before Christmas break.
Laura Blackmon said that she reviewed with staff yesterday the estimates far the park
and ride shuttle proposal during the construction of the justice facility and the County campus.
The figures are exceedingly high. She said that, with Board approval, she would like to pursue
less expensive alternatives in a very quick timeframe. She said that a report would have to be
submitted to the Board of Adjustment before its next meeting.
Laura Blackman said that she would be returning to Florida on December 15-19t" and
Assistant County Manager Gwen Harvey would be Acting Manager while she is away.
5. Items for Decision--Consent Agenda
A motion was made by Commissioner Nelson, seconded by Commissioner Gordon to
approve those items on the consent agenda as stated below:
a. Minutes -NONE
b. Appointments
(1) Jury Commission -Reappointment
The Board reappointed Bob Hall to the Jury Commission to a third full term ending June 30,
2008.
(2} Orange Unified Transportation Board -Reappointments
The Board reappointed Julian Marshall, Robert Peterson, Bryn Smith, and Nancy Baker to
the Orange Unified Transportation Board to first full terms ending September 30, 2009.
(3) Recreation and Parks Advisory Council -Reappointment
The Board reappointed Geoffrey Hathaway to the Recreation and Parks Advisory Council to
a second full term ending December 31, 2009.
c. Motor Vehicle Property Tax Release/Refunds
The Board adopted a refund resolution, which is incorporated by reference, related to 66
requests fro motor vehicle property tax releases or refunds in accordance with North Carolina
General Statutes.
d. Budget Amendment #7
The Board approved budget ordinance amendments and capital project ordinances for fiscal
year 2006-07 for Department on Aging, Commissioners' Contingency, EMS
Relocation/Meadowlands Annex Capital Project Ordinance, Miscellaneous, Library Services,
Department of Social Services, Emergency Management, Health Department, and Human
Services.
e. Resolution Authorizing Installment Financing Contract for Equipment Purchases
The Board adapted the resolutions, which are incorporated by reference, and authorized the
Finance Director and County Attorney to execute documents as required to accomplish the
financing with Bank of America.
f. Primary Care Funds Acceptance
The Board accepted start-up funding to provide primary care services to traditional Health
Department clients at Southern Human Services Center (SHSC).
g_ Agreement with UNC School of Public Health for Biosolids Application Study
This item was removed and placed at the end of the consent agenda for separate
consideration.
h. Approval of Contract to Purchase Real Property -Pavdarfar Tract
This item was removed and placed at the end of the consent agenda far separate
consideration.
i. Acceptance of Purchase Contract Assignments from the Triangle Land Conservancy
for the Acquisition of Real Property from Trinity School
The Board authorized the acceptance of the two purchase contract assignments from the
Triangle Land Conservancy; the purchase of approximately 25 acres of land located along New
Hope Creek from the Trinity School of Durham and Chapel Hill; and the County Attorney and
staffs from ERCD and Finance to schedule and complete a closing on the property expected to
occur on or before December 31, 2006; the granting of a conservation easement to the State of
North Carolina on or before January 31, 2007; and the Chair and Clerk to sign the conservation
easement, subject to final review by staff and County Attorney.
L Ethics and Conduct for County Public Servant Policy
The Board was to consider an Orange County Policy establishing ethics and conduct for
County public servants. THIS ITEM WAS REMOVED FROM THE AGENDA TO BE
CONSIDERED AT A LATER MEETING.
k. Schools Adeauate Public Facilities Ordinance (Schools APFO) -Approval of
Membership and Capacity Numbers
This item was removed and placed at the end of the consent agenda for separate
consideration.
I. Gilmour Zoning Atlas Amendment (Rezoning)
The Board approved a petition by Brian and Lydia Gilmour to rezone a portion of their
property from Existing Commercial-V {EC-5) to Agricultural Residential (AR).
VOTE ON CONSENT AGENDA: UNANIMOUS
ITEMS TO BE REMOVED FROM CONSENT AGENDA:
g, Agreement with UNC School of Public Health for Biosolids Application
StudyThe Board considered approving an agreement with the UNC School of Public Health for
a pilot study of abio-solids application site in Orange County subject to final approval by UNC
and County Attorney review, and authorizing the Chair to sign.
Commissioner Jacobs said that he pulled this to bring attention to it. As the document
paints out, Orange County is tenth in the State far sites on which bio-solids are applied. County
government has no control or authority in these matters. Some citizens have raised concerns
about the safety of this, and this agreement should address some of the concerns.
A motion was made by Commissioner Jacobs, seconded by Commissioner Foushee to
approve the agreement, subject to final approval by UNC and County Attorney review, and
authorized the Chair to sign the agreement.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
h. Approval of Contract to Purchase Real Property -Pavdarfar Tract
The Board considered approving a contract to purchase a 10-acre tract of land from
David Paydarfar for an addition to the future Millhouse Road park property and authorizing the
Chair to sign, subject to final review by staff and County Attorney, with closing expected to occur
on or before February 28, 2007.
Commissioner Jacobs pointed out that the County is purchasing another ten acres that
adjoin the Blackwood Farm on Millhouse Road, which will be a 79-acre park. He understands
that this ten-acre parcel will free up some of the area for multiple soccer fields. He thinks that
this is a good improvement and he wants citizens to know that the County is spending money to
improve this park, which is at the northern edge of Chapel Hill.
A motion was made by Commissioner Jacobs, seconded by Commissioner Foushee to
approve the purchase of approximately ten acres of land located on Millhouse Road from Mr.
David Paydarfar; and authorize the Chair to sign the contract an behalf of the County, subject to
final review by staff and County Attorney; and instruct the County Attorney and staff from ERCD
and Finance to schedule and complete a closing on the property expected to occur on ar before
February 28, 2007.
Commissioner Gordon said that this Millhouse Road Park should not be confused with
the New Hope Park, which is on another Blackwood property. Also, she said that the County
Commissioners did have some thoughts that maybe in the future this could be a location for
multiple soccer fields. She agreed that this is a good purchase.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
k. Schools Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance (Schools APFO} -Approval
of Membership and Capacity Numbers
The Board considered approval of November 15, 2006 membership and capacity
numbers for both school districts (Orange County and Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools}, which
will be used in developing ten-year student membership projections and the 2007 SAPFO
Technical Advisory Committee Report and authorizing the Chair to sign.
Planning Director Craig Benedict pointed out the revised item, which was the yellow
sheet. The table was left blank in the original abstract to receive the final numbers. The new
numbers are plugged into the table an the second page of the abstract.
Commissioner Gordon made reference to the elementary school numbers and said that
no changes have been made to reflect the state's reduction of class size. However, when
Elementary School #10 comes online, the changes will be made in capacity. She asked
clarifying questions about the numbers and Craig Benedict answered.
A motion was made by Commissioner Foushee, seconded by Commissioner Jacobs to
approve the November 15, 2006 Membership and Capacity numbers as submitted by each
School District and authorize the Chair to sign the student capacity and membership forms.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
6. Resolutions or Proclamations
a. Resolution Honoring Carolina Brewery
The Board considered recognizing Carolina Brewery, whose Flagship IPA was awarded
a Gold Medal in the English Style India Pale Ale category at the Great American Beer Festival
(The Festival is the largest national Competition that recognizes outstanding beers produced in
the United States} and commending Mr. Robert Poitras for his exemplary corporate citizenship.
Economic Development Director Dianne Reid recognized Carolina Brewery for receiving
this award. She read the resolution.
Robert Poitras said that he appreciated this honor and he is glad to be able to have a
business in Chapel Hill.
A motion was made by Commissioner Jacobs, seconded by Commissioner Nelson to
approve recognizing Carolina Brewery, whose Flagship IPA was awarded a Gold Medal in the
English Style India Pale Ale category at the Great American Beer Festival (The Festival is the
largest national Competition that recognizes outstanding beers produced in the United States}
and commend Mr. Poitras for his exemplary corporate citizenship.
RESOLUTION HONORING CAROLINA BREWERY
WHEREAS, Carolina Brewery is in its 12t" year of business and currently employs 65 staff; and
WHEREAS, Owner-operator Robert Poitras founded the business based on a business plan he
developed as a student during his senior year at UNC Chapel Hill; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Poitras was the recipient of the 2005 North Carolina Small Business
Restaurant Neighbor Award for Community Service and was a national finalist; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Poitras and the restaurant have contributed to over 50 charities and causes in
2006; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Poitras is currently the youngest board member of the North Carolina
Restaurant and Lodging Association; and
WHEREAS, Carolina Brewery's Flagship IPA was awarded a Gold Medal in the English Style
India Pale Ale category at this Fall's Great American Beer Festival in Denver, Colorado;
WHEREAS, the 2006 Great American Beer Festival winners were selected by an international
panel of brewing experts from a field of 2,443 entries received from 450 US breweries; and
WHEREAS, Flagship IPA is one of Carolina Breweries core beers and is brewed and served
daily at the 460 W. Franklin Street location; and
WHEREAS, earlier this year, Carolina Brewery won four Carolina Championship of Beer
awards;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Orange County Board of Commissioners
congratulates Robert Poitras and Carolina Brewery for its Gold Medal Award and for its
exemplary corporate citizenship.
This the 12t" day of December, 2006.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
b. Resolution Honoring Lantern Restaurant
The Board considered recognizing Lantern Restaurant, one of only three restaurants in
the southeast named as America's Top 50 Restaurants by Gourmet Magazine, and
commending its chefs far being strong supporters of local farmers and their products.
Dianne Reid said that this restaurant is in the West End of Chapel Hill. She read the
resolution.
Andrea Reusing, owner of Lantern Restaurant, said that they were honored to be
recognized by Orange County. She thanked the County Commissioners for being committed to
local farmers.
A motion was made by Commissioner Nelson, seconded by Commissioner Jacobs to
approve recognizing Lantern Restaurant, one of only three restaurants in the southeast named
as America's Top 50 Restaurants by Gourmet Magazine, and commend its chefs far being
Strang supporters of local farmers and their products.
RESOLUTION HONORING LANTERN RESTAURANT
WHEREAS, Orange County takes pride in all farmers and agricultural enterprises that enhance
the County; and
WHEREAS, local restaurants that buy vegetables, meats, and dairy products from local farms in
Orange and neighboring counties create new market opportunities for longtime farm families
and new young farmers who are beginning their farms; and
WHEREAS, chefs and restaurant owners have many opportunities to educate their diners about
supporting local farmers and agricultural enterprises; and
WHEREAS, Lantern Restaurant and its chef-owners, Andrea & Brendan Reusing, have
provided exceptional opportunities for local farmers to gain important local and national
exposure through articles and interviews published in national food publications; and
WHEREAS, Lantern Table, a dinner series initiated by Andrea Reusing focuses on local farms
and food producers, with periodic dinners throughout the year that showcase farmers and
products as the seasons progress; and
WHEREAS, the Triangle Slow Food chapter, currently led by Chef Andrea Reusing, provides
opportunities for the general public to attend special food tasting and provides direct links to
local farmers markets websites; and
WHEREAS, Chef Andrea Reusing recently coordinated the `local farmer's market community'
contingent of 17 local farmers to the international Slow Food event named "Terra Madre" in
Turin, Italy; and
WHEREAS, as "convivium leader" for the local slow food chapter, Chef Andrea Reusing is
working to make the month of June an annual "EAT LOCAL" month;
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Orange County Board of Commissioners
congratulates Andrea & Brendan Reusing and their staff of 32 at the Lantern Restaurant on
their national recognition as one of three southeastern restaurants listed on the TOP 50
restaurants across the nation, noting the restaurant's "commitment to local farmers."
This the 12th day of December, 2006
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
c. Proclamation for Bill of Rights Davin Orange County
The Board considered a proclamation to recognize December 15, 2006 as Bill of Rights
Day in Orange County.
Margaret Misch said that she is concerned about the loss of civil rights and civil liberties
in this day and age with the Military Commissions Act that was just adapted by Congress. She
wonders if there needs to be a new set of resolutions passed in the County to defend persons
against repressive regulations coming down from the federal government. She said that there is
a resident in Carrboro who was whisked away, and she wonders how much that had to do with
new regulations that have been passed since the Patriot Act. Chair Carey assured Ms. Misch
that the federal government was in no way using Orange County government to carry out any
repressive measures.
Chair Carey read the proclamation.
A motion was made by Commissioner Jacobs, seconded by Commissioner Gordan to
approve a proclamation to recognize December 15, 2006 as Bill of Rights Day in Orange
County.
PROCLAMATION TO RECOGNIZE
DECEMBER 15, 2006 AS
BILL OF RIGHTS DAY IN ORANGE COUNTY
WHEREAS, the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution, commonly known as the Bill of
Rights, were ratified on December 15, 1791; and
WHEREAS, the Bill of Rights protects every person of this nation from infringement of basic
human and civil rights; and
WHEREAS, those rights include freedom of religion, of speech, of press, and to peacefully
assemble; and
WHEREAS, the right to privacy within one's home, free of searches and seizures in the
absence of probable cause or specific evidence of criminal behavior, should be
upheld; and
WHEREAS, Orange County is committed to the human rights of its citizens and to actions that
both protect and preserve those rights;
NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved that the Orange County Board of Commissioners does
hereby proclaim December 15, 2006 as Bill of Rights Day in Orange County.
This the 12t" day of December 2006.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
7. Special Presentations
a. 2005-2006 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR)
The Board received the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR} including the
Single Audit Report and the audit report far the SportsPlex for the fiscal year ended June 30,
2006.
Finance Director Ken Chavious said that this year's report includes the single audit,
which used to be a separate document. The Spartsplex audit is also included, which was
commissioned by the Board. He made a PawerPoint presentation.
ORANGE COUNTY
COMPREHENSIVE ANNUAL
FINANCIAL REPORT
JUNE 30, 2006
Board of County Commissioners
December 12, 2006
FISCAL HIGHLIGHTS
• General Fund Activity
• Fund Balance Position
• Debt Position
• Solid Waste Landfill Fund
• SportsPlex Enterprise Fund
• Single Audit and Grants
• Audit Results
• Future Financial Challenges
GENERAL FUND REVENUES
AND TRANSFERS
• REVENUES AND TRANSFERS 70TAL
$152.4 MILLION
• INCREASE OF ~ 7.8 % OVER 2005
• LEADING SOURCES OF REVENUE
Property Taxes 65.9
Sales Taxes ~ 3.9
Intergovernmental 7 0.4
Charges for Services 6.4
PROPERTY TAXES
• ASSESSED VALUE $~7.9 BILLION 2006
• INCREASE OF 78% OVER 2005 (Revaluation)
• 98.9% OF GROSS LEVY COLLECTED
• REMAINS {aNE QF THE STATE'S BEST
(Statewide Average Rate 96.75%)
GENERAL FUND EXPENDITURES
AND TRANSFERS
• EXPENDITURES AND TRANSFERS
TOTALED $149.1 MILLION
• 1NCREA SE OF 9.6 % OVER 2005
• LEADING EXPENDITURESlNCLUDE
EDUCATION 46.7%
HUMAN SERVICES 21.8%
PUBLIC SAFETY 9.4%
$69.6 MILLION GENERAL FUND DOLLARS FOR EDUCATION
46.7°I° of Expenditures
• Current Expense $50.0 million
• Capital $ 4.4 million
• Debt Service $15.2 million
• Number 1 in the State According to Most Recent Public School Forum Report
FUND BALANCE POSITION
• $15.5 Million Undesignated as of 6/30/2D06
• Increase in Undesignated fund balance of $2 Million.
• 10.36 % of 2006 Expenditures.
• Exceeds LGC S% Recommended Minimum
FUND BALANCE INCREASE (table)
DEBT POSITION
• OUTSTANDING GENERAL FUND DEBT @ 6/30/06 $188.8 MILLION
• NET /NCREASE IN DEBT OF $36.4
• ($51.2 MILLION NEW DEBT $14.8 RETIRED)
• DEBT EVIDENCED BY
BONDS $148.2 MILLION
ALTERNATIVE $ 40.6 MILLION
DEBT ISSUED 2005-2006
• $29,185,000 MILLION BONDS ISSUED
SCHOOLS $ 25,685,000
SENIOR CENTERS $ 3,500,000
• $22,000,000 MILLION COPS ISSUED
SCHOOLS $8,650,000
SPORTSPLEX
CONSERVATION
SENIOR GENTER
SEWER
ANIMAL SHELTER
$s, ooo, 000
$2, 000, 000
$4, ~ 50, 000
$ 500, 000
$ 700, 000
• BOND RATINGS
- AAA FITCH, AA+ S&P, Aa2 MOODY'S
• $s.9 MILLION UNISSUED BONDS
DEBT POLICY PARAMETERS
• Debt Will IVot Exceed 31 of Assessed Value
y Actual Debt = 1.6°~ of Assessed Value
• Debt Service Payments Will Not Exceed 951 of Operating Expenses
- Actual Pymts = 13.3°~ of Operating Expenses
DEBT SUBSEQUENT YEAR
• $9 MILLION CARRBORO HIGH SCHOOL
• GOPS ISSUE PLANNED FOR SPRING 2007
Projects Include:
Elementary # 90
Justice Facilities
CHCCS Renovations Efland Water & Sewer
Elementary #90 infrastructure West 90 Soccer
DTCC Satellite Campus Jail
Central Orange Senior Center
Solid Waste Enterprise Fund
• TOTAL REVENUES OF $7.3MILLION
• TOTAL EXPENDITURES OF $5.8 MILLION
• $1.5 REVENUES OVER EXPENDITURES
• CASH AND INVESTMENTS OF $6.9 MILLION
• LIABILITIES OF$1.4 MILLION
• $1.2 MILLION 1N RESERVES APPROPRIATED 200&-2007
• SOUND FINANCIAL CONDITION
SPORTSPLEX
• Operations Commenced December 2005
• Smooth Transition
Operating Results:
• Operating Revenues $1, ~ 22, 229
• Operating Expenditures $1,093,654
No County Funds Needed for Operations
Overall Year End Surplus of $244,028
• ($155, 259 net of Depreciation)
Separate Audit Performed
"`Unqualified" (Good) Opinion on Financial Operations
Letter of Recommendation for Operational Improvements
SINGLE AUDIT AND GRANTS
• $99 MILLION GRANT FUNDS MANAGED
• DSS FUNDS $84 MILLION
$ 10 MILLION REGEIVED BY COUNTY
$74 MILLION DIRECT PAYMENTS
• HOUSING AND CD FUNDS $5 MILLION
• SINGLE AUDIT COVERS BOTH FINANCIAL AND PROGRAM COMPLIANCE
• ONE MINOR FINDING RELATED TO GRANT COMPLIANCE
POSITIVE AUDIT RESULTS
• Successful audit process
• Continued Implementation of New GASB Requirements
• Auditors Performed SAS 99 Fraud Review
• Sound Financial Policies and Procedures
• Adequate Internal Control Structure
• "Unqualified Opinion" GOOD)
• Minor Findings and Recommendations for Consideration (Best Practices)
FUTURE FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS
• Further Solidify Debt Issuance Plans
• Review Of Financial Impacts of "Best Practices"
• GASB 451mplementation (OPEB)
• Carrboro High School Start up
• Continue to Improve Fund Balance Position
Finance Director, Post Audit
Colin Hill, Audit Manager with Cherry, Beckart and Holland, said that they gave a clean
opinion and the audit went smoothly. He thanked the Finance and Budget Departments. He
said that they have also issued a management letter and a SAS 61 letter. The management
letter contains recommendations concerning the internal control structure and policies in place
at the County. The SAS 61 letter is required by professional standards and details the duties as
the auditors. He described some of the changes of statistics and GASB statements.
Commissioner Nelson asked if the internal audit could be done in-house and Ken
Chavious said that at this time there is no internal audit function. The Revenue Department
does "internal audits" of those departments that collect money. He said that internal audit goes
way beyond that. He said that his recommendation is to start an internal audit function by
bringing in additional resources.
Commissioner Nelson asked about the undesignated fund balance and if there is a goal
for this. He also asked about the average of undesignated fund balances for North Carolina.
Ken Chavious said that the average far counties the size of Orange County is 17°~ of
expenditures. His experience has been that there has been flexibility in the 12-15% range.
Commissioner Foushee asked about the internal audit function and if this type of
department were established, how many people would comprise this department. Ken
Chavious said that it should be housed under the Manager's Office. It could start out very
slowly.
Commissioner Gordan said that she supports the internal audit function.
Commissioner Gordon said that the computer controls sound like a good idea. She
was also pleased to see that the Sportsplex had a favorable audit.
Chair Jacobs said that the Board would be discussing best practices for financials later
in the year. He wants everyone to know that Orange County pays strict attention to its financial
position and how it affects the ability and capacity in the future.
Commissioner Jacobs made reference to page 4 and the listing of debt issued in 2005-
2006. He said that on his calculation, the County spent 67% of its debt towards schools, which
is almost exactly the same as the policy of 68.32%.
8. Public Hearings
a. Piedmont Electric Membership Corporation [PEMC) Planned Development
iPD-OI) and Special Use Permit, Class A
The Board considered the Planning Board recommendations regarding the PEMC
request to amend its Planned Development -Office/Institution (PD-OI) zoning district and its
Class A Special Use Permit to permit the principal use of a 350-foot replacement tower at its
administrative and operations center located at 2500 NC Highway 86 South, Hillsborough.
This item was transcribed verbatim per the Clerk to the Board.
Geof Gledhill: Before Craig Benedict goes any farther, I want to remind the Board that
this is aquasi-judicial public hearing, in part. Mr. Benedict was sworn the last time he presented
evidence, and he is still under oath. The same would be true with any other witnesses that
testified. If there is anybody who is going to speak tonight who has not already been sworn in,
they will need to be sworn in as part of this public hearing.
Chair Carey: We'll recognize that fact when we get to the audience for speakers.
Craig Benedict: Good evening, Craig Benedict, Orange County Planning Director. I
have been sworn. This item is a two-part item. First, it is the Piedmont Electric Membership
Corporation Planned Development rezoning or atlas amendment. That is the legislative part of
the hearing as was referenced by the attorney. The second part of it is a special use permit,
Class A, where there are special use conditions attached to the item. That is the quasi-judicial
part of the hearing where sworn testimony can be taken. The original public hearing on this item
was a joint public hearing with our Planning Board on October 3~d. That was somewhat of a
special public hearing in order to hear this item for Piedmont Electric Membership Corporation.
This item was referred to our Planning Board, and on November 1St, the Planning Board heard
this item and took additional written testimony from Piedmont Electric Membership Corporation.
also want to announce tonight that we have our County's consultant, Rusty Monroe, who
represents the County for applications far telecommunication towers. He is here in the back
row, and he's available also to answer any questions as the Board may have. He also was
available to our Planning Board during that meeting and did provide some additional testimony.
We have the applicant here tonight, Piedmont Electric Membership Corporation, and
their appraiser, Mr. Misenheimer, may provide additional testimony tonight.
The Planning Board deliberated on the information provided at the public hearing, the
information within the application, and found that the rezoning, the atlas amendment, was in
order and recommended approval. They reviewed the findings of fact within the special use
permit and found that they did generally meet the conditions, the general conditions of health,
safety, and welfare; maintenance of property values; and specific conditions. Based an the
testimony that has been provided to date in both verbal and written farm, we submit to you
tonight the complete application with a recommendation that the application be approved to
include first a decision on the atlas amendment to rezone to Planned Development Office
Institutional, and if so inclined to approve that part of the application process, to proceed to
special use permit Class A and include the resolution of various conditions far the Class A
special use permit shaven an pages 7-17. Those are the items that we would expect if you do
proceed to the special use permit part of the process included in the resolution of approval.
What staff also recommends is that, given na more additional testimony tonight, the public
hearing remains open to this meeting, and that after public comment is made that the Board
close the hearing and deliberate upon the findings. That is all of my testimony and presentation
for tonight.
Chair Carey: Are there questions from members of the Board for Mr. Benedict?
Hearing none, I will call on the only person who has signed up to speak on this item, and that is
Mr. Mike Parker. Were you sworn at the last meeting?
Mike Parker: I was.
Chair Carey: Then you can proceed to speak.
Mike Parker: I'm Mike Parker, I'm general counsel for Piedmont Electric, and I signed
up to speak only to make one point, which Mr. Benedict has already touched on. On the
agenda action item abstract that you have on the second page, one of the things, if you'll look at
the third page, number six, one of the issues that was raised at the joint meeting on October 3~d
was that the tower was a public safety necessity, public need necessity. As I understand it, this
is an either/ar standard. Either it needs to be a public safety or public need necessity, ar you
have to have a finding that it will maintain or enhance the value of contiguous property. We
have presented at the Planning Board meeting, the written testimony that Craig Benedict
referred to, which is the opinion of Mr. Misenheimer that it does not adversely affect the
adjoining property values. He is here if you need to ask any questions. With that being said, we
just make ourselves available.
Chair Carey: Are there any questions from members of the Board? Is there anyone
else in the audience who would like to speak on this matter tonight? There was none. Seeing
none, would it be appropriate to close the public hearing and consider any action the Board
wants to take tonight?
Geof Gledhill: Yes, Mr. Chair.
A motion was made by Commissioner Jacobs, seconded by Commissioner Foushee to
close the public hearing.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
A motion was made by Commissioner Jacobs, seconded by Commissioner Foushee to
approve the Zoning Atlas amendment in accordance with the attached resolution, which is
incorporated by reference (page 7).
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
A motion was made by Commissioner Jacobs, seconded by Commissioner Foushee to
approve the Special Use Permit, Class A application, in accordance with the attached
resolution, which is incorporated by reference (page 13).
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
Commissioner Jacobs: One point that was made by this Board I believe had to do
with the balloon test. It was item #4 on page 2. Some dissatisfaction was expressed, and
although this applicant met the standards, I hope we're going to revisit this, or at least have
some further analysis of whether afive-hour period an a Monday morning is sufficient to let
neighbors know through a balloon test what is going on. I think we just want to make sure
people know.
Chair Carey: We'll ask the Planning Director to make a Hate of that and bring it back for
our consideration at the appropriate time, the standard, that is.
Craig Benedict: Sa noted.
b. Public Hearina on Proposed County and School Capital Projects and Related
Debt Issuance Plans
The Board considered conducting a public hearing on matters related to proposed
County and school capital projects and related debt issuance plans.
Budget Director Donna Coffey made a PowerPoint presentation.
Debt Issuance Plans
grange County, NC
Public Hearing
December 12, 2006
Purpose of Public Hearing
Ta receive public comment regarding the Board of County Commissioners' decision to mane
forward with debt issuance plans totaling $95.9 million between fiscal years 2006-07 and 2009-
10
- $6.9 million 2001 Voter Approved Bands
- $85.3 million alternative financing for County (Han-enterprise fund) projects
- $3.7 million alternative financing for self-supporting enterprise fund projects
(Solid Waste and the Sportsplex}
Orange County Board of County Commissioners Debt Issuance Plans Fa112006 through Spring
2008 (table)
Anticipafed Tax Rate Impact of Issuing $92,2 Million in Debt for School and County Projects
(graph) - it ranges from a low of 2.72 cents in the upcoming fiscal year, it peaks out in 2010-11
at 6.5 cents, and starts decreasing in latter years of the plan.
County's Annual Debt Service Projections (graph) - in 2008-09, the debt service gets really
close to the 15°~ limit, but the capacity gap gets wider later.
Projects on the Horizon
- Agricultural Center
- Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools Elementary #11, Middle School #5, and
Carrboro High School Addition
- Efland Water and Sewer -Central Efland/Northern Buckhorn
- Expansion of Efland Cheeks Community Center
- Fire Training Facility
- Heritage Center
- New Hope Park @ Blackwood Farm
- Northeast Regional Park
- Parks Operations Base
- Renovations of County Buildings {in accordance with November 2006 County
Space Plan Update)
- Solid Waste Convenience Center Relocations
- Southern Human Services Center including Dental Clinic
- Southwest Orange CountylCarrboro Library
Commissioner Gordon said that she requested to hold this public hearing. She said
that she would like to hear if the projects listed for debt issuance are the correct school and
capital projects and if the timelines are correct. Also, she said that there are significant tax
implications, and she wants public input on this.
Chair Carey said that the projections on general fund growth assume 7°lo growth, but in
actuality the growth has been higher. He said that a very conservative estimate was chosen on
growth to make sure that the County stays within the debt policy range. He wants the public to
understand this.
Donna Coffey said that the actual growth since 1989-90 has been more in the 8-9°l0
range.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
Cathleen Turner is the Executive Director of the Alliance for Historic Hillsborough. She
spoke about the new library. She said that she would like to renew a proposal presented to the
Board of County Commissioners in 2000, then again in 2002 and 2004 regarding the need for a
centralized repository for the archival collections maintained by the County and other public
collection holders. She said that Hillsborough and Orange County has been the repository of
some of the most valuable documents for two and a half centuries. She said that Orange
County is visited by hundreds of researchers conducting genealogy and scholarly research
every year. She said that an Archival Collection Task Farce was assembled six years ago to
study issues facing various archival stewardship groups, including the Orange County Records
Department, the Orange County Library, Hillsborough Historical Society, the Orange County
Historical Museum, and the Historic Hillsborough Commission. The task force identified several
issues of concern: The nature and extent of the various collections, conservation issues,
accessibility to collections, and space requirements. The task farce concluded that locating
archival collections at a centralized space to be stored, preserved, and accessed by the public
is critical. She said that this sort of facility is no longer an optional amenity to be tucked into a
corner somewhere, but an essential requirement with the added benefit that it draws throngs of
people to the area every year. At a minimum, this type of facility must be at least 2,000 square
feet and must offer security from temperature extremes, theft, fire, and moisture. The proposed
library is supposed to be around 24,000 square feet, but there was a study done that concluded
that a County of Orange County's size should have a main library of around 34,000 square feet.
This difference would allow the inclusion of a separate archival collection facility. She said that
the current location on Tryon Street would serve the purposes perfectly. She said that it is the
task force's understanding that the endowment money currently held by the library totals over
$90,000 and was supposed to go toward some sort of history room and it is available to support
this initiative. In addition, other Hillsborough organizations will pledge support with funds and
materials to help with the process.
Mayor of Carrboro Mark Chilton spoke about the Carrboro Branch Library. He said that
it should be properly known as the Southwest Orange Library. He said that it concerns him that
no funds are allocated toward this project in this plan. He knows that the County is looking at
reconstituting the Library Services Task Force, but he would like to see the County commit
funds and a timetable for this library. He said that he appreciates the need to move forward and
to hone the proposal for this library, but there remains a difference of thinking between Orange
County government and the Town of Carrboro government about how such a branch library
would ever be paid for. He said that the scale of money to do this project would be around $2
million, and he believes that the County needs to be honest about whether it is a priority for the
County ar nat. He asked the Board to consider changing the debt issuance plan to reflect this
branch library.
Commissioner Gordon asked Mayor Chilton to elaborate on the difference in thinking of
Orange County and Carrboro. Mayor Chilton said that the Board of County Commissioners sent
a letter to the Town of Carrboro about two years ago indicating that it was the County's
expectation that any branch library should be paid 50°!0 out of Carrboro's tax dollars and 50°!°
out of Orange County's tax dollars. He said that this is neither feasible within Carrboro's capital
improvement plan, nor is it something he feels is a reasonable request. He said that library
services are overwhelmingly a county function in North Carolina, and state law is clear about
this paint. He said that the Board of Aldermen as a whole has taken this position. He said that,
speaking for himself, he is willing to consider that Carrboro would put some resources toward
making this library happen, but it is in no position to do half of the budget for the project. He
asked for a commitment from the Board of County Commissioners on how much the County
would be willing to contribute.
Chair Carey said that he thinks it is premature to talk about this now because he is
unsure about the monies that would need to be raised. He said that it is incumbent upon the
Board to update the Library Services Task Force report so that there is same framework around
the need and how much it might cost.
Mayor Chilton said that one of the problems with the last Library Services Task Force
was that, at some level, people were dreaming about what they wanted their library services
would be someday, but this was not realistic. He said that the need is great, but the resources
are limited.
Commissioner Gordon said that it is important to have a comprehensive library services
plan. She said that the task force later on in the agenda could do this. She thinks that the
group needs to get back to the Board on the comprehensive plan so that the Board could act on
it before it acts further on the debt issuance schedule.
Commissioner Nelson said that in the 2004 Library Task Force Report, there were two
recommendations about library planning: Create along-term facilities plan for the County in
terms of libraries and create ashort-term strategic plan for developing library facilities in the
next 3-5 years. He asked Library Director Brenda Stephens about the status of these
recommendations.
Brenda Stephens said that they have not acted on the recommendations.
Commissioner Nelson said that those were two good recommendations and he thinks
everyone would feel more comfortable with the direction if a plan were in place for library
facilities and that there was a plan to have a southwest Orange library in the next few years.
Commissioner Nelson made reference to the 25,000-square foot recommendation in
the 2004 report and said that libraries are evolving, and this is not where libraries are going
these days. He said that both Chair Carey and Mayor Chilton were right and that this aspect of
the report should be revisited, and a more creative way of doing a library in Carrboro should be
considered. He said that a 25,000 square foot library is not necessary and the needs could be
met in another way. He said that what he takes from Mayor Chilton's comments is that the
dynamic of the discussion needs to be changed to have more of a conversation about how to
meet this need and try to work together. He agreed with Mayor Chilton about the 54150 split
and said that this is not a reasonable expectation for a town of Carrboro's size.
Commissioner Jacobs made reference to page 11, item 9-e, and said that the numbers
that were proposed were based on 20-year population projections and not on current need. He
said that the point of bringing the task force back together is to try and look realistically at the
library needs. He said that there were discussions during the Carrboro Library Services Task
Force with elected officials and the Manager of Carrboro, and there was never any resolution
about whether Carrboro would commit any funds. He appreciates Mayor Chilton individually
speaking, but he thinks that the County needs to see a commitment and a good faith from the
Town of Carrboro that it is willing to participate financially.
CHCCS Board Chair Jamezetta Bedford said that the school board supports the
financing for Carrboro High School and Elementary School # 10, and they would also like to
thank the County Commissioners for supporting the older schools.
Artie Franklin spoke on behalf of the CHCCS PTA Council. He asked that the County
program in the debt over the next ten years for future school construction. Also, the PTA
Council supports SAPFO along with smaller class sizes, and they would like the County
Commissioners to take this into account as well. He thanked the County Commissioners for
scheduling Elementary School # 14.
Chair Carey said that many of the items on this list have been pent up demands for
years and others are designed to maintain the progress that has been made with the schools
and keeping up with student growth. He said that some of the debt in the plan has already been
issued and others are under contract to move forward. He said that he wants to hear public
comment on which parts of this plan citizens do not want to be financed over the next 3-5 years.
He said that the Board will take all comments under consideration.
Commissioner Gordon said that anyone would be welcome to send written comments.
A motion was made by Commissioner Foushee, seconded by Commissioner Jacobs to
close the public hearing.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
9. Items for Decision--Regular Agenda
a. Development of Orange County Transfer Station
The Board considered discussing and providing direction to staff, regarding a location for
an Orange County transfer station.
Solid Waste Director Gayle Wilson said that the Solid Waste staff is projecting that the
existing landfill will reach capacity about the middle of the year in 2010. At that time, Orange
County will be required to transport its waste to an out of county disposal facility. The
mechanism by which to transfer waste is a transfer station. The schedule for developing this is
about four years. There is only about three and a half years left before the County will need this
facility. The Board spoke at length on October 24th about transfer stations and the different
options. The Solid Waste Advisory Board recommended a site and that it be constructed and
developed on existing land on Eubanks Road. He understood at the meeting that the option of
utilizing the Durham transfer station was taken off the table, and for tonight he understood that
there would be three decision points to consider: 1} initiate a search process to identify a piece
of property for a transfer station site; 2) consider endorsing the SWAB recommendation to
develop the site on Eubanks Road on existing property; and 3} hold a public meeting among the
neighbors of the existing landfill and solicit opinion and comment. The Chair of the SWAB, Jan
Sassaman was in attendance to answer questions.
Laura Blackmon said that when she and Gayle Wilson talked last week, they spoke
about how the County is running out of time. She said that there appears to be room on the
current site for a transfer station. There was a property owner that suggested his site would be
large enough, but there has been no analysis of this site. She said that staff feels that the
current site is a good site, but there are some concerns with the neighborhood about what
exactly would go there. She said that the staff is seeking direction from the Board.
Commissioner Gordon made reference to the third alternative and asked what the
agenda would be for the public meeting. Gayle Wilson said that the benefit would be to explain
to the neighbors what a transfer station is and what it can look like, and the pros and cons of a
transfer station versus a landfill.
Chair Carey suggested that staff proceed with examination of any site that has been
offered and then simultaneously schedule this neighborhood meeting to provide information and
solicit comment.
Commissioner Jacobs agreed about looking at the one piece of property. He said that if
there is going to be a meeting in the community, it should certainly not be on a Wednesday
night because of previous experience. He also thinks that it should be clear that there will never
be a materials recovery facility on that site or any other intensive solid waste uses. He would
like the County Commissioners to see the agenda before it is distributed to the public.
Commissioner Foushee echoed what Commissioner Jacobs said in terms of assuring
the neighbors that the Board of County Commissioners will make a commitment to them that
there will not be another landfill in the County.
Commissioner Nelson said that any commitment should be made in writing. He would
like to see the agenda before it goes out to the public. He said that he would like to see a cast
benefit analysis of both sites (i.e., fuel cost differentials, etc.).
The meeting will not be scheduled until after the first of the year.
Laura Blackmon clarified that she is hearing from the Board that a transfer station is the
only facility that will be added to this site and the Board agreed.
Commissioner Gordon asked that there be a clear report of the next steps and Laura
Blackmon said that at the January 23rd meeting, the staff would bring back a report on the
neighbor's meeting.
The Board agreed to defer items 9-c and 9-g, with the exception of the Hillsborough
Town Commissioner making any statements about the decision that was made Jost night.
b. Annexation Petition of a Portion of Orange County's Twin Creeks Educational
Campus for Chapel HiIllCarrboro Elementary School #10
The Board considered authorizing the Chair of the Board of County Commissioners to
sign a voluntary annexation petition fora 19-acre parcel that is under review for Chapel Hill-
Carrboro Elementary School #1 Q in the Town of Carrboro's planning jurisdiction.
Craig Benedict presented this item. This land is on Eubanks Road and Old NC 86. This
is part of a larger Twin Creeks Park and Educational Campus. There have been some design
issues that could be solved by annexing this property.
A motion was made by Commissioner Nelson, seconded by Commissioner Gordon to
authorize the Chair to sign the attached petition.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
c. Hillsborough-Orange County Strategic Growth Plan: Phase One
The Board was to consider a decision on Phase One recommendations contained in the
jointly prepared Hillsborough and Orange County Strategic Growth Plan.
This item was DEFERRED, but Hillsborough Town Commissioner Eric Hallman made
some comments.
Eric Hallman said that he Co-Chaired this group and this is important to Hillsborough
because they are looking at tremendous growth. He said that the Town really appreciates the
County helping with the planning process. He said that this is the first phase in a living
document that the Town will continue to work with.
Commissioner Gordon asked about the Fairview Park decision and Eric Hallman said
that the Tawn approved with na changes to the memorandum of understanding the Fairview
Park Master Plan. The only concern was that, with Orange High School being less than a mile
away, the tennis courts might not be needed on this site.
Commissioner Jacobs said that he would like for staff to continue pursuing a consultant
to design the park.
d. Property Acauisition: Walnut Grave Church Road
The Board considered approving the acquisition of approximately 18.13 acres of
undeveloped land on Walnut Grove Church Road for use as a solid waste convenience center
and authorizing the Chair to sign the agreement.
Purchasing and Central Services Director Pam Jones said that the Board authorized this
in closed session on November 2$t" to negotiate with the property owner for approximately
18.13 acres on Walnut Grove Church Road. The staff successfully negotiated the purchase of
this property for $14Q,QQQ, which is within the authorization by the Board. The site is adjacent
to the existing solid waste convenience center. The existing center is at the corner of NC 86
and Walnut Grove Church Road. The existing rented site would be relocated to this larger site.
A preliminary site plan was attached to the abstract. She said that this would allow the County
to take up the slack in the event the NC 57 site would have to be closed. The plan is to use part
of the site for debris storage in the case of natural disasters. The current owner would like to
continue to run his cattle until the County needs the debris storage area. The purchase price is
available within the current capital investment plan. A project ordinance would be brought back
in January.
Commissioner Jacobs asked that the agreement for the cattle be fleshed out. Pam
Jones said that this is one of the recommendations.
Chair Carey would like to look at the agreement before it was signed and Geof Gledhill
said that this might be in the form of a licensed agreement and not a lease.
A motion was made by Commissioner Jacobs, seconded by Commissioner Nelson to:
1. Approve the purchase of 18.13 acres of property from Louis and Faye Crabtree in the
amount of $140,000, substantially in accordance with the attached Offer to Purchase and
Contract -Undeveloped LotlLand, contingent upon staff and Attorney review; and
2. Authorize staff to designate an area that may be used by Mr. Crabtree to pasture
cattle under the terms cited above and authorize the Manager to sign any resulting letter of
understanding, contingent upon Attorney review; and
3. Authorize the Chair to sign the purchase agreement; and
4. Authorize the Attorney and Finance Director to execute documents as may be
required to close the property transaction.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
d. Creation of a New Library Services Task Force
The Board considered creating a Library Services Task Force to review and update the
2004 Library Services Task Force Report presented to the Board of Commissioners on October
19. 2004.
Commissioner Nelson said that he understood the request from Chair Carey was to
bring back the old task force, but from the abstract it sounds like it is from scratch. He asked for
confirmation of this and suggested that staff invite the people from 2004 back to serve on this
task force. Chair Carey said that his intent was to reconstitute the previous task force, but he
thinks that the previous members should be invited to serve, and the Board can select who it
wants to serve.
Commissioner Nelson said that there was so much history and so much thought that
went into the other report, that this should not be started from scratch.
Commissioner Foushee said that, given the conversation about the southwest branch of
an Orange County library, she would hope that when the charge is given to the task farce, that
the minutes from the public hearing on the County debt be included.
Commissioner Gordon said that the trick is to move expeditiously, but give the other
jurisdictions a chance to weigh in on the issue. She read the Manager's recommendation and
said that this covers it, except that it should be indicated that the Board is interested in having
the former members serve again.
Commissioner Jacobs said that the town representatives were elected officials, and
some of them might not be elected officials anymore. He said that the idea was to ask single
elected officials from each jurisdiction. He suggested having the Manager consult with the
Library Director about the members that were not active, because he would not be interested in
soliciting continued non-participation.
Chair Carey suggested having the Clerk solicit old appointees and Town officials, but not
the inactive ones.
A motion was made by Commissioner Foushee, seconded by Commissioner Jacobs to
approve the Manager's recommendation to authorize the Clerk to contact the Towns regarding
potential representatives on the task force; contact past Library Services Task Force members
regarding their potential interest in applying for appointment to the new Task Force (except for
inactive members}; and begin advertisement to the public for potential appointees to the new
task force.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
PUBLIC COMMENT:
Carrboro Aldermen Randee Haven O'Donnell said that when she read through the
Library Services Task Force Report, it was clear that the library is a southwestern Orange
County library and that is what the concept should be. She said that folks do not really "get it"
that they really need a southwest Orange County library and it is not about Carrboro. She said
that the residents are looking for a full service branch library and one that offers the standard
public library hours, one that that is accessible, and one that has a deep and wide library
collection. She said that the Carrboro Library Work Group initially was looking to 6-7,000
square feet, far less than what was given in the report. She said that it seems that this library
can be done in a store-front space of anywhere from 6-10,000 square feet. She said that the
Board of Aldermen support the County Commissioners' recommendation, in the expectation that
a new task force would be created with a completed report by March, and that the task force
would rededicate itself to expedite the efforts to bring a library to southwest Orange County.
Martha Tyson said that she is a resident of Chapel Hill and she has worked with others
far 20 years to establish afree-standing library for Carrboro. She said that the Chapel Hill
library is on its second expansion. She said that the 25,000 square feet that was mentioned
was taking into consideration possible expansion. She said that Holly Springs just dedicated a
new 20,000-square foot library and Pittsbora will do this in 2008. She said that she would like
some kind of indication from the County Commissioners as to what they are hoping to learn
from this new task force.
Chair Carey said that this would be incorporated in the charge of the task force.
e. Appointments
DEFERRED
1. Hollow Rock Park Plannina Committee
The Board was to consider making appointments to the Hollow Rock Park Planning
Committee.
2. Commission for Women -New Appointments
The Board was to consider making appointments to the Commission for Women.
10. Reports-NONE
11. Closed Session
A motion was made by Commissioner Foushee, seconded by Commissioner Gordon to
ga into closed session at 10:46 p.m. far the purpose:
"Ta 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," NCGS §
143-318.11(a}(5).
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
RECONVENE INTO REGULAR SESSION:
A motion was made by Commissioner Foushee, seconded by Commissioner Gordon to
reconvene into regular session at 11:15 p.m.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
12. Adjournment
A motion was made by Commissioner Foushee, seconded by Commissioner Gordon to
adjourn the meeting at 11:15 p.m.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
Moses Carey, Jr., Chair
Donna S. Baker
Clerk to the Board