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HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda - 12-09-1995 - Attachment 2 BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS RETREAT - DECEMBER 9, 1995 A. AGRICULTURAL DISTRICTS ADVISORY BOARD B. ARTS COMMISSION C. CABLE TELEVISION ADVISORY COMMITTEE D. EMS ADVISORY COUNCIL - RESOURCE COMMITTEE E. HEALTH BOARD F. HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION G. HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION H. ORANGE COUNTY COMMISSION FOR WOMEN I . ORANGE COUNTY DEPARTMENT ON AGING J. ORANGE COUNTY VISITORS BUREAU K. WATER RESOURCES COMMITTEE L YOUTH SERVICES ADVISORY COMMISSION M. HUMAN SERVICES ADVISORY COMMISSION N. ADVISORY BOARD ON AGING 0. RECREATION AND PARKS ADVISORY COUNCIL P. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION NOTE: IF YOU WANT COPIES OF ANY OF THE ABOVE, PLEASE CALL BEVERLY AT 732- 8181, EXTENSION 2130 AND SHE WILL FAX THESE TO YOU. tAL Orange County A $ Agricultural Districts Advisory Board MEMORANDUM TO: Orange County Board of Commissioners FROM: Dolly Hunter, Chair W�* Agricultural Districts Advisory Board SUBJECT: Farmland Preservation Program: Goals for 1996-97 Fiscal Year DATE: December 1, 1995 COPIES: Marvin Collins, Planning Director Donald R. Belk, Planner II/Special Projects On behalf of the Orange County Agricultural Districts Advisory Board, I want to thank the Board of County Commissioners for its continuing support of farmland preservation. During the past year,we have made meaningful progress in educating the public about farmland issues. Our significant accomplishments include: o Sponsored a two-day forum Farming in Our Future. Orange County Agriculture in the 21st Century which featured nationally-recognized experts on farmland protection strategies. The program drew an excellent response from the community. o Organized an ad hoc subcommittee to develop a Agriculture segment for the Economic Development Strategic Plan update. o Conducted a series of staff training workshops involving Planning, Soil Conservation, and Cooperative Extension personnel in the use of voluntary conservation easements as a means of farmland preservation through estate planning. o Reviewed a Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) Study prepared by a Planning Department intern. o Studied and provided comments on the Flexible Development proposal and urged the Planning Board and Board of Commissioners to offer the proposal for public review. The Agricultural Districts Advisory Board intends to maintain a high profile in the coming year as we continue working toward a farmland preservation program based on voluntary measures and incentives for landowners. To this end, the Agricultural Districts Advisory Board seeks your support as we pursue the following goals and objectives for the 1996-97 fiscal year. Our top priorities are shown in boldface type: L C C0WR c% Orange County Planning & Inspections Department 306F Revere Road Hillsborough, N.C. 27278 Hillsborough • 732-8181 Chapel Hill •9684501 Durham • 688-7331 Mebane• 227-2031 n Re: Farmland Preservation Program: Goals for 1996-97 Fiscal Year December 1, 1995 Page Two o Develop a Transfer of Development Rights (TDR)program for Orange County based on a market- driven system. While the parameters for sending areas (from which rights are transferred) can be determined by factors such as prime farmland soils, distance from urban areas, etc., receiving areas (to which rights are sent to provide density bonuses) should consider mixed residential, commercial, and industrial uses, as well as mass transit capabilities. Designating receiving areas is a zoning function. We request that the Board of Commissioners establish a receiving area(s) for the purpose of initiating a TDR program. o Revise the Voluntary Farmland Preservation Program Ordinance. Specifically, retool the Agricultural Districts to create more incentives for farmers to participate. We request that the Board of Commissioners consider reductions in property taxes for farmers through state or local legislation. o Re-evaluate a Purchase of Development Rights (PDR) program, including alternative sources of funding. We request that the Board of Commissioners pursue enabling legislation, if needed, for use-value taxation penalty payments to be placed in a PDR Fund. o Continue studying the feasibility of establishing a Orange County Land Trust that would accept voluntary easements and gifts of agricultural and conservation lands. o Conduct a Comprehensive Survey of Orange County Agriculture Status and Trends. This survey will serve to update the 1981 report To Preserve Our Farms. The survey will help the farming community, the public, and county government determine appropriate strategies for preserving agriculture. A graduate student from the Department of City and Regional Planning at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill has volunteered to develop a survey methodology as a masters thesis project. o Conduct a statistical survey that demonstrates "Preservation of Farmland Pays". This study will show how costs of providing residential services far outweigh the costs of preserving farmland. We appreciate the opportunity to communicate our goals and priorities in advance of your retreat on December 9. We look forward to speaking with you and answering any questions you may have during our allotted time on that day. /db I 3 00 W est Tryon Street P. 80 x 8 1 1 Q Hillsborough,rou 9 h, NC 27278 To Support Ad Art Forms,Promote,Coordinate and Strengthen The Cultural Development of The County" MEMORANDUM TO: Moses Carey, Chairman, and Orange County Board of Commissioners FROM: Orange County Arts Commission Tom Waldrop, Chairman DATE: November 15, 1995 RE: Arts Commission Goals for 1996-97 To seek funding for a full-time director for the Orange County Arts Commission. This director would be responsible for the following services to the community: - coordinate and schedule arts events - dispense information about the Arts to the public - provide information concerning studio and exhibition space - coordinate workshops for artists and arts administrators - manage legal documents associated with County and State Arts funding - serve as liaison between the BOCC and the Arts Commission - promote public and private partnerships for the Arts To develop an economic impact study on the Arts in Orange County. Hillsborough:(919)732-8181 ■ Durham:(919)688-7331 ■ Chapel Hill:(919)967-9251 ■ Western Orange Co.:(919)227-2031 f MEMORANDUM TO: Moses Carey, Jr. FROM: Robert J. Gwyn, Chairman, Cable T sion Advisory Committee DATE: November 21, 1995 oY SUBJECT: Issues and Priorities This is in response to your request for the identification of the top priority of the Cable Television Advisory Committee as input to the Board of Commissioners' Goal Setting Retreat As the Board of Commissioners know the Cable Television Advisory Committee has been working for more than two years on the cable television renewal process. At this time the Board of Commissioners approved a Request for Proposal which has been given to Time-Warner and CVI (since the final steps in the acquisition of CVI by Time-Warner have yet to be taken, CVI is considered a separate company). The companies are to respond by the end of December and a public hearing on their responses will be scheduled. The negotiations will begin in January. The Cable Television Advisory Committee has three main priorities in this negotiation: (1) THE REUCTION IN THE NUMBER OF OCCUPIED HOMES IN AN ARA THAT WOULD REQUIRE THE EXTENTION OF CABLE The Commissioners are well aware of the rapid changes in the networking of information , including computer networks, the internet, the world wide web and cable television and satellite television. All of these technologies are coming together in ways we are not able to predict. It is essential that the people of Orange County and the government and education infrastructure be able to connect with these information sources. If people in this rapidly urbanizing county (with the current restrictions on development) are able to connect with cable television it is essential that the line extension policy be altered. We are recommending a minimum of 15 homes per mile as the trigger to start line extension. While we might be able to negotiate this number, we feel it is essential to require more of the cable companies. 2. THE ASSIGNMENT ASSIGNMENT OF PEG CHANNELS AND FUNDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE OPERATION OF THE CHANNELS The Committee is very concerned about the Public Access, Education Access and- Government Access channels. If Orange County is to have full access to these channels it is essential that the franchising governments (Chapel Hill, Carrboro, Hillsborough, Orange County) cooperate in their utilization. A regional approach with contracts with an independent non-profit corporation which would operate the technology and provide production assistance seems most practical. If these channels are to be fully programmed with government information, educational programming and citizen access there much be funds for equipment and facilities and a practical operating budget. Chapel Hill is now negotiating the PEG with Time- Warner and seeking a grant of $350,000 for equipment and a "pass through" or annual grant keyed to gross revenues. Orange County should similarly insist on a facilities grant (in the area of $250,000) and a similar pass through. Orange County government should also require a grant for equipment for the cable casting of Commissioners Meetings, School Board Meetings and (perhaps) OWASA meetings. 3.THE CREATION OF AN INSTITUTIONAL NETWORK WHICH WOULD CONNECT GOVERNMENT BUILDINGS AND SCHOOLS IN THE COUNTY Time-Warner is in the telecommunications business in both Wake and Durham counties and expects to expand to Orange County. The fiber optic system is expected to carry much more than television programs. The citizens of the county must have access through the county government and the schools to essential information . The beginning of this access is the institutional/government network. The Cable Advisory Committee feels this is an opportunity to bring the county into the information age that should not be lost. We believe what we would like to require Time_Warner for a franchise is not unreasonable and well within the ability of this huge corporation to provide. As Time-Warner gets into telecommunication in the Triangle area they stand to earn multi-millions of dollars. With strong funding the people of the county can also profit from the wealth of information from PEG channels. December 9, 1995 The Future of Emergency Medical Services in Orange County The Emergency Medical Services Advisory Council has been reviewing the future of emergency medical service delivery in Orange County. Over the past few months, the Resource Subcommittee of this Council has discussed options for financing EMS service under several different service models. Options discussed thus far range from maintaining the current system with some minor changes all the way to complete privatization of the service. One particularly interesting area of consideration has been financing the initial treatment response to these calls with general tax revenues and either privatizing or billing for ambulance transports. The committee's goal is to recommend changes, if any,to the existing system that could be factored into the 1996-97 budget process. County staff have prepared the following outline to identify key issues in developing recommendations for service delivery and funding. The Subcommittee is interested in feedback from the Board of Commissioners, as the Board must ultimately make the policy decisions regarding these matters. Specifically, the Subcommittee is interested any preferences the Board may have, including issues identified below, which require particular attention by the Subcommittee, or options that the Board has no interest in pursuing. Depending on comments from the Board, the committee's tentative goal is to present recommendations to the EMS Council for their February meeting, with a report and recommendations on any policy changes to come back to the Board of Commissioners in Spring 1996. County staff will be available at the Commissioners' retreat to respond to Board members' requests for further information on any of the issues on the following list. Pilot Program In August 1995, the County undertook a pilot program involving the use of Quick Response Vehicles, or QRVs. Several days each week, the initial response to many 911 calls for EMS is handled by one paramedic driving an Advanced Life Support(ALS)equipped sedan. The paramedic assesses the patient at the scene and either: (1)treats and releases, (2)treats and advises the patient to seek follow up medical care, or(3)calls for an ambulance to transport the patient to a hospital. In accordance with established protocols, there is simultaneous dispatch of the QRV and ambulance based on reported indications (e.g., chest pain). Following the first three months of the program, a decision was made to expand and extend the pilot program through January to gather additional data. Indications from the first three months suggest that the staffing pattern is working well, patient satisfaction is at a high level, and overall patient outcomes have not been compromised. A more detailed report on the QRV program is planned for the first part of 1996. How will services be provided? Model 1 Emergency treatment responsibility of Orange County provided (24 hours per day, 7 days per week) by County employees and Rescue Squad members responding in County owned QRV's. Emergency transportation not the responsibility of Orange County. franchised to an outside party (similar to Johnston Ambulance)24 hours per day, 7 days per week Specialized rescue franchised by the County services provided by the volunteer Rescue Squads Model 2 Emergency treatment, responsibility of Orange County transportation, and specialized rescue services Emergency treatment provided by County employees and Rescue Squad members responding in County owned QRV's. Emergency transportation provided by County employees and Rescue Squad members responding in County owned ambulances. Specialized rescue franchised to and provided by Rescue Squads. services Model 3 Emergency treatment, responsibility of Orange County transportation and specialized rescue services Emergency treatment provided by County employees and Rescue Squad and transportation members responding in County owned ambulances. Specialized rescue provided by Rescue Squads services Model 4 Emergency treatment franchised to an outside party and not performed transportation and by County or Rescue Squads specialized rescue services How will the system be financed? 19 Property Tax 17 Special District Tax D Fee for Service 9 Household Membership/Subscription I] Per household tax 9 Some combination of the above If we elect fee for service financing: for what services will we charge? Communications answering 911 call dispatching responding unit equipment replacement costs Treatment personnel costs medical supplies other operating costs vehicle gas, oil, maintenance, replacement capital and equipment costs Transportation personnel costs vehicle gas, oil, maintenance, replacement capital and equipment costs Indirect Costs billing cost Emergency Management administrative costs County administrative costs Satellite base construction which special populations will be charged? County residents Medicare and Medicaid patients Non-County residents Private Insurance patients Indigent Self-pay patients (those with out 3rd parry coverage) Elderly other areas to consider.- will fees be set at a rate that allows full or partial cost recovery? recognizing that most jurisdictions are collecting only 40-50% of fees billed, will the County need to appropriate general revenue funds to cover indigent care and/or to offset the write off of uncollectible charges or will fees be set at more than full cost recovery to offset some or all of the anticipated non-payment? sliding scale, through "means testing"for those meeting certain income criteria, to ensure that no one who truly needs emergency medical care fails to receive it because of inability to pay? can the rescue squads get out of the fund raising business to cover day-to-day operations, and focus primarily on service delivery, with only occasional fund raising for specific needs? under any model, should we pursue third party reimbursement( insurance), which is not done now? under any model, how do we maintain the contributions of volunteer resources? If we elect memberships/subscriptions: will participation decline over time? should memberships/subscriptions be implemented for a particular time period with an alternative for future years funding? 46 NOV COURN �ea�tl� �l epantinerlt Daniel B. Reimer, MPH, Director ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH DIVISION �oantp a7 P.O.Box 8181 • O PERSONAL HEALTH DIVISION ANIMAL CONTROL L DI Revere Road �� °o DENTAL HEALTH DIVISION DIVISION d a P O. Box 8181 • 300 W. Tryon Street P.O. Box 8181 304 Revere Road • Hillsborough, NC 27278 o Hillsborough, NC 27278 17 5` se. HILLSBOROUGH CHAPEL HILL +i4 s 919-732.8181 919-967-9251 �"tb eetal, 9198 27 2032 DURHAM 919-688.7333 MEMORANDUM TO: Moses Carey, Jr., Chair, Orange County Board of Commissioners FROM: Timothy J. Ives, PharmD., MPH, Chair, Orange County Board of Health DATE: November 30, 1995 RE: Board of Health Goal for Board of Commissioners' Goal Setting Retreat. The Orange County Board of Health reviewed your memorandum of November 10, 1995, at its regular meeting of November 16, 1995. At that same meeting, I was elected Chairman for the 1995-96 year. The Board decided that our top priority remains the same goal we asked you to adopt last year: DEVELOP A HUMAN SERVICES CONSUMER INVOLVEMENT MECHANISM FOR HUMAN SERVICES PROGRAM PLANNING. The objective is to develop a process to identify health problems in the community and develop strategies to reduce them by using a community-based approach. The specific mechanism is the Orange County Healthy Carolinians Task Force which you authorized to be implemented. The task force has been appointed and has held its initial meeting. The Status Report and a Plan of Action are enclosed for your consideration at the retreat. Following a multi-faceted approach to Community Health Assessment, involving survey research, focus groups and secondary data analysis, the task force will recommend priority problems that need attention and specific strategies to improve the identified health conditions. The Board of Health requests that you receive the findings of the task force and consider its recommendations. We also request that you allocate 10 minutes at the retreat, to the Board of Health for an update from Dr. Beverly Foster, who represents the Board of Health on the Healthy Carolinians Task Force. It would be an excellent opportunity to heighten the awareness of the Commissioners and the public regarding "problems and potential solutions to issues we will face in the future." Thank you for considering our input into the Commissioners' Goal Setting Retreat. Radmin/9595/ann/bocc/1195bocc.doe SOUTHERN ORANGE OFFICE: Carr Mill Mall • Suite 225 • 100 N Greensboro Street • Carrboro, NC 27510 • 919-968-2022 1 HUMAN SERVICES CONSUMER INVOLVEMENT GOAL: DEVELOP A CONSUMER INVOLVEMENT MECHANISM FOR HUMAN SERVICES PROGRAM PLANNING. OBJECTIVE: To develop a strategy to identify health problems in the community and develop strategies to reduce them by using a community-based approach. STATUS REPORT The Board of Commissioners, at their meeting of October 18, 1994, approved the establishment of the Orange County Healthy Carolinians Task Force as recommended by the Board of Health. At the Goals and Objectives Retreat on December 10, 1994, the Commissioners agreed to endorse the goal. Since that time an Adhoc Steering Committee representing the Health Department, UNC Hospitals and the UNC-CH School of Public Health, has explored alternatives for implementing the task force. Experience in other North Carolina counties has shown that the task force is more successful when a core group of community leaders have endorsed the approach before the larger task force is appointed. This change and staff shortages resulted in the initial meeting being postponed until August 28, 1995. At that time, selected information from the Health Department Community Diagnosis was presented in a manner similar to the State of the Local Economy by the Economic Development Commission. This core group endorsed the process, and recommended additional members be appointed. On October 2, 1995,the Commissioners approved of a plan for the Health Department to join UNC Hospitals in contracting with the UNC-CH School of Public Health to conduct the Community Health Assessment and coordinate the Healthy Carolinians Task Force. The initial meeting of the Healthy Carolinians Task Force was held on October 19, 1995. The Health Department's Community Diagnosis was presented, the multi-faceted methods of community health assessment were reviewed and the members present agreed to participate in the process of prioritizing health problems and planning potential solutions. A variety of community health assessment methods,including secondary data analysis, surveys and focus groups are being planned, and the task force will reconvene in the Spring to review the results. The full task force will focus on priority issues and divide into sub-committees which will assess health status data,existing resources and recommend strategies which emphasize health promotion and disease prevention rather than treatment and funding issues. Periodic reports and final recommendations will be presented to the Board of Commissioners and the Board of Health. N C W ............. ...'fie .::. .::.>::.;:.:.;: xx F .......... .... .. ..:: w ... .::: .:: ...; ::::::::::..:. .::::::::::::: .::.:.:. a N z ON M N Vl N ON V tT ON �O N rn rA O ti ti o ti z z w o •.� � � � � � w ,O ^O cUd 0 0 0 ' •t • o N O 0 0 I- .ti VJ C4-4 O CA Cd o 00 15 44-01 1 o M w U eh Cd vi C O O H H W z a w A W a N Y O N W H a z 0 U W U 5 z V a� U Z -cs � O � O W � x F o � AO l U 0 o yy � ° ° o U0 � o S ri ORANGE COUNTY PLANNING DEPARTMENT 306F REVERE ROAD HILLSBOROUGH, NORTH CAROLINA 27278 o. DLS � 0W19 L5 DEC 41995 HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION December 1, 1995 Mr. Moses Carey, Jr. Chairman, Orange County Board of Commissioners Post Office Box 8181 Hillsborough, North Carolina 27278 Re: Historic Preservation Program: Goals for 1996-97 Fiscal Year Dear Mr. Carey: On behalf of the Orange County Historic Preservation Commission, I want to thank the Board of County Commissioners for its continuing support of the historic preservation program. The Historic Preservation Commission has made meaningful progress in developing a broad program to identify, inventory, and protect the County's unique historical and architectural resources. Our significant accomplishments include: o Award of a$12,385 grant for the completion of the Orange County historic resources survey and preparation of a survey manuscript, made possible with your commitment of$4,515 matching funds; o Completion of the Historic Preservation Element of the Comprehensive Plan, made possible through a 1994 grant and your commitment of$19,000 matching funds (the Preservation Element will be presented to the Board of Commissioners at the January 11, 1996 work session); o Study of a National Register nomination for the Cedar Grove crossroads,prepared by a Planning Department intern for completion of a UNC-CH masters thesis project. The nomination was reviewed by the State Historic Preservation Office and was highlighted during a statewide preservation consultant's workshop held in Orange County in October, 1995; o Review and comment on the Flexible Development proposal; forwarded a recommendation to the Planning Board and Board of Commissioners to adopt the proposal. During the next fiscal year,the Historic Preservation Commission will move toward the designation of the first Orange County Historic Landmark. In addition, we will prioritize the Goals, Objectives, and Action Recommendations outlined in the Historic Preservation Element. Concurrent with completion of the Historic Preservation Element,and anticipating its adoption during early 1996, the Historic Preservation Commission seeks your support for the following goals and objectives for the 1996-97 fiscal year: Moses Carey, Jr. December 1, 1995 Page Two o Establish a priority list of the County's most significant historical and architectural resources for designation as Orange County Historic Landmarks; o Promote a higher profile for Historic Preservation in the Orange County Planning Department to help further the recommendations of the Historic Preservation Element of the Comprehensive Plan; o Develop Design Guidelines to ensure that officially-designated historic landmarks retain their unique characteristics; o Apply for a 1996 Certified Local Government grant from the NC Division of Archives and History to develop a National Register nomination for the Cedar Grove Rural Historic District. The Historic Preservation Commission appreciates the County Commissioners'willingness to address these goals during your retreat on December 9, and we look forward to further discussion of the strategic priorities for the coming fiscal year. Sincerely, Todd Dickinson Chairman /db cc: John M. Link, County Manager Marvin Collins, Planning Director Donald R. Belk, Planner H/Special Projects Emily Cameron, Planner H/Landscape Architect • ppnl! of • 17 { J�5. l ie. s 4'rfb eW" HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION ORANGE COUNTY NORTH CAROLINA MEMO TO: Moses Carey, Jr., Chair Orange County Board of Commissioners FROM: Quinton Baker, Chairid Orange County Human Relations Commission DATE: November 30, 1995 RE: Commission Priorities for FY 96/97 Per your recent request, the Human Relations Commission executive committee has discussed our top priorities for the next fiscal year. The committee unanimously agreed to forward the following goal to the Board of Commissioners: The employment provision of the Civil Rights Ordinance will take effect on January 1, 1996, and implementation of Phase ll will be a major focus for staff and board in the coming fiscal year. Above and beyond the Ordinance, the Human Relations Commission is committed to developing its capacity to position itself as a greater resource to the community on human relations issues, and will explore specific objectives for realizing this goal at its upcoming annual retreat, themed`Beyond the Ordinance." We are ready and willing to discuss this goal and any other human relations issues at your upcoming retreat, if you wish. Thank you for this opportunity to share our priorities with the Board of Commissioners. P.O. BOX 8181 • HILLSBOROUGH, NORTH CAROLINA • 919/732-8181 Women for n Commission C o u Orange Box 8181 • 110 North Churton Street • Hillsborough, NC 27278 MEMO TO: Moses Carey, Jr., Chair Orange County Board of Commissioners FROM: Judy Woodall, ChairJ� Orange County Commission for Women DATE: December 1, 1995 RE: Commission for Women Priorities, FY 1996-1997 The Commission for Women executive committee has discussed our top priorities for the coming fiscal year, based on your recent memo. The committee unanimously agreed on the following two priorities: 1. The Commission for Women will complete a report on the Status of Orange County Women in the spring of 1996. The Commission will study and address the report's key indicators of unmet needs for Orange County women as the basis for next year's goals and objectives. 2. The Commission for Women will study and address issues related to welfare reform and budget cuts to help ensure that Orange County women and children have their basic needs met. We would be happy to present these goals at the Commissioners' goal-setting retreat if the Board wishes. Thank you for this opportunity to have input into the Commissioners' goal- setting for next year. Hillsborough 732-8181 • Chapel Hill 967-9251 • Mebane 227-2031 • Durham 688-7331 e.,nip Of : „ 0, ORANGE COUNTY DEPARTMENT ON AGING � o 17 �? 410 Caldwell Street Chapel Hill, NC 27516 919-968-2080 Jerry M. Passmore Director November 27, 1995 To: Moses Carey, Jr., Chair Orange County Commissioners From: Christina M. Jacob, Eldercare Specialist Orange County Department on Aging Re: Orange County Nursing Home Community Advisory Committee Priorities The priorities of the Orange County NHCAC continue to be to improve the lives of persons residing in the county's nursing homes by ensuring that their rights are upheld and their dignity respected, and to inform the public about issues concerning such residents. These priorities are achieved through monthly committee meetings, site visits to the county's nursing homes by committee membership, "friendly visits" to the nursing homes, and efforts to educate the public about the committee's activities and focus. Currently, we are concentrating on recruitment efforts to achieve the required six-person committee membership; the terms of two members ended recently. Please let me know if you have any questions about our committee. I would be very glad to discuss its activities with you further. I will be discussing with the committee members at our next meeting on Nov. 30 the opportunity to communicate our priorities in person to you and the other county commissioners. I will contact Beverly Blythe by Dec. 1 if we desire to do so. WN U 1995 I A Proposal to Increase the Orange County Occupancy Tax to 2% The Board of Directors of the Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau would like to request an increase in the amount of occupancy tax collected on the rental of rooms in commercial lodging establishments from 1% (current) to 2%. They respectfully request that the proceeds of this tax continue to be dedicated to the Chapel HM/Orange County Visitors Bureau for the operation of the bureau and implementation of sales and marketing programs that encourage visitor spending in the community. This increase is requested to take effect in the Spring of 1996. Backgr�und In mid-1990, the Public-Private Partnership (PPP)established a task force of 54 citizens to determine the feasibility of creating a visitor services bureau in Orange County. After several months of study, the group formally recommended the formation of a bureau,which was endorsed by the PPP, the Chapel Hill/Carrboro Chamber of Commerce,the Hillsborough Area Chamber of Commerce,the Chapel Hill Hotel/Motel Association, and the Economic Development Commission. In July of 1991,legislation was passed enabling the Orange County Board of Commissioners to levy a room occupancy tax of up to 3% on the gross receipts derived from the rental of any room,lodging,or similar accommodation in the county. In August(1991) the Commissioners approved a 1% tax on transient accommodations,which was to take effect on September 1, 1991. An interim Visitors Bureau Board of Directors of 11 members was subsequently appointed, and a Director was hired in June of 1992. The Board adopted the following mission statement in September of 1992: The mission of the Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau is to develop and coordinate visitor services in Orange County and implement marketing programs that will enhance the economic activity and quality of life in the community. Some of the Economic Benefits of Encouraging Visitors to Orangc Count v + Visitors have minimal impact on the existing infrastructure and government-provided services (schools, social services,etc. are not utilized by visitors). + Visitors spend money in existing businesses($69.93 million was spent by visitors to Orange County in 1993). + Visitors have a dramatic impact on the amount of sales tax that is collected and returned to local governments ($3.57 million in state tax receipts and$1.32 million in local tax receipts was collected from visitors in 1993). # Visitors support over 1,300 jobs in our community. 4 Property tax revenues are not used to support these efforts. The marketing programs and services provided by the bureau are paid for by visitors,through the proceeds of a county hotel occupancy tax. Justification for Increasing the Tax The marketing committee of the Visitors Bureau(under the leadership of Chapel Hill council person Lee Pavao)met individually with area hoteliers in the spring of 1995 to assess the effectiveness of the Visitors Bureau. Hoteliers expressed overwhelming support and agreed the Bureau's programs had been effective. When asked whether there were other programs that should be implemented,hoteliers expressed a desire to see additional sales and marketing activities that would attract groups and individuals to the area. Hoteliers also agreed to support an increase(to 2%)in the occupancy tax to pay for the additional programs provided that all of the proceeds were dedicated to the Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau. The staff of two at the Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau currently implements more than 50 programs and strategies each year to increase the amount of visitor spending in the community. Additional sales and marketing activities would be impossible without additional resources to invest in both personnel and programs or a reduction in the number of existing programs. The number of clients served each year by the bureau has increased more than 400% in 3 years and will continue to do so as the bureau becomes more established as a resource for meeting planners and visitors. The following activities would be implemented with a dedicated 2%occupancy tax. These programs would help increase hotel occupancy during shoulder seasons(non-peak times)thereby increasing visitor spending in the community and increasing retail sales. Hire a director of sales to attract state,regional,national and international conferences to the county, participate in trade shows, and manage sales promotions. Increase participation in trade shows that are likely to generate group business. (We currently participate in two trade shows each year, this would likely increase to at least six.) �► Coordinate community-wide promotions to showcase our facilities and encourage meeting planners to schedule conferences in our community. �► Initiate a comprehensive advertising campaign to select markets. Participate in state and regional cooperative projects that will increase our visibility as a meeting and visitor destination. Devise and implement programs geared toward local meeting planners (UNC and other)to encourage them to hold conferences in Orange County. Print additional collateral materials to service the visitors who are coming to Orange County. 4 Increase the number of services provided to groups,particularly in the area of coordinating local transportation from hotels to meeting facilities(to foster a hassle-free visit while minimizing impact on local roads.) �► Increase public relations efforts to make the community aware of the visitors bureau and the services provided. We believe that if implemented, these activities will result in increased sales for existing businesses (particularly small businesses such as retail stores,gas stations and restaurants),increased visitations at local attractions, art museums, festivals and events, and an increase in the amount of tax dollars being returned to the community. ORANGE COUNTY PLANNING DEPARTMENT 306F REVERE ROAD HILLSBOROUGH, NORTH CAROLINA 27278 o , J November 29, 1995 Moses Carey, Jr. Chairman, Orange County Board of Commissioners PO Box 8181 Hillsborough, NC 27278 Dear Moses: Regarding your letter Committee for 1996-97 °n Priorities of the Water headway has been made toward accomplishing to report that significant past fiscal year. The GIS database for water resource gning the Project goals during the necessary equipment u s now has all that will comprise the data baseiis now in the system one-third is available for Purchase and about one-third of the data Positioning S e with exist ng fundsh1Two Global accurately System (GPS) transceivers have been earl y locate all new wells and septic tanks Purchased to y in 1996, Environmental Health personnel will tanks, using this equipment in the field (although g using this exist) . The pilot Ground Water Recharge ate GPS equipment needs approximately halfway to completion g Project with USGS is Compatible data to be available in October 19911 report and GIS- On the public education front, substantial work has be developing a second brochure on abandoned wells en done in or slide presentation on ground , and toward a video ound water addition, several other ideas that link both Orange County. In Public education are underwa y in articular , a a* The Committee is excited about one P proposed Water Center" cooperation with staffs from the Soil and Water District Planning, that is being planned in Engineering, Environmental Health Service. We feel that the Water Center will Cooperative Extension service to citizens on water-related existing Provide s convenient g staff resources. questions and issues, using In terms of top priorities for Committee would list the following: year,1996-97 fiscal year, the 0 The continuation of ongoing projects,second year of the USGS Ground Water Recharg g the e project and others as listed above. g Rate 1, r a a _. . :{�'. !t ���� i .-.,,,-«aww.•. �z c f. .... :n Av���i6i �f o The purchase of one additional GPS unit ($3,500) to provide a sufficient number of units for all Environmental Health field personnel to use in accurately locating new wells. o Funding for training of existing staff (approximately $4,000) in ground water resources for the proposed one- stop "Water Center" hotline and program. The Water Center proposal would begin July 1, 1996, and is designed to accomplish the "public input process" called for in the 1995-96 Board of Commissioners Water Resources Goal (Objective 1) . In conclusion, we feel that the Committee is making headway toward accomplishing the long-range goals of the project, and look forward to providing additional information towards this end in the future. Sincerely, Dan C" d-5 Don Cox Chairman, Water Resources Committee copies: Dr. Alice Gordon, County Commissioner John Link, County Manager Marvin Collins, Planning Director Paul Thames, County Engineer Ron Holdway, Environmental Health Supervisor Dave Stancil, Planner II/Land Use and Environment November 29, 1995 Moses Carey, Jr., Chair Orange County Board of Commissioners P. O. Box 8181 Hillsborough, NC 27278 Dear Chair Carey: In response to your letter of November 10, the Youth Services Advisory Commission's priorities for the upcoming year are twofold: 1) to continue to improve the Community Based Alternatives assessment, evaluation and funding process for the youth of Orange County, and 2) to continue to develop strategies for more effectively addressing the needs of Orange County youth, both those who participate in CBA funded programs as well as the broader community of young people. The Commission has established 4 additional action groups to address this priority. We continue to work toward becoming a resource in the community through active participation in and advocacy for youth issues. In addition we are engaged in data collection, and the production of educational & informational materials. It is our intention that by providing the public with information about available programs, the Youth Services Advisory Commission will connect citizens possessing youth related needs to appropriate resources. We also anticipate assisting youth serving agencies in working more effectively in responding to the needs of youth in Orange County. We would very much appreciate being one of the Commissions invited to speak at the Goal setting retreat. If we are chosen to attend, please contact me at 929-0331. Sincerely, 6nna rfield, Chair Youth Services Advisory Commission 1AA Memorandum Date: November 27, 1995 To: Moses Carey, Chairman Orange County Commission From: Karen Taylor and Tony Dalton Co-Chairs, Orange County Human Services Advisory Commission Re: 1995 HSAC Forum Report Attached is the report from the 1995 Forum hosted by the Human Services Advisory Commission—"Human Services in Transition"—held at the Friday Center in Chapel Hill on October 2nd. However, in your letter to the HSAC Co-Chairs, you requested one or two goals for the County Commissioners to address at it's Retreat on December 9th. While the report contains some specific recommendations for the various public agencies, for county government, and for related organizations, we feel that it is important to address the current state of flux and the uncertainty with a confident and constructive theme that ran throughout the discussions of the Forum this year. That is, it is critical this year that the various constituent groups Public and private agencies, county govemment, and even service "consumers"—pursue the creation of a range of collaborative mechanisms that will enable real partnerships. We believe that Orange County has unique capabilities, but each of these constituent groups will be required to make changes. What the forum mainly asks of the County Commissioners is the public sanctioning of the report and some funding to foster collaborative mechanisms on a year-around basis. We will certainly be available to briefly discuss our report and the major goals in this letter. /Qece�veo� i�S�9S ti i Report to Commissioners, Forum Participants, and Human Services Agencies from the Human Services Advisory Commission's Annual Forum "Human Services in Transition: New Opportunities" November 1995 Background The report summarizes the ideas generated during the 1995 Annual HSAC Forum. The forum, which was held October 2, 1995 at the Friday Center in Chapel Hill, NC, attracted 120 participants. Two keynote speakers, Betty Lou Ward, Wake County Commissioner, and Carmen Hooker, Spouse of the Chancellor at UNC and former Massachusetts Legislator, spoke on current changes and opportunities in Human Services. Small groups were then charged to list and prioritize opportunities for Human Services agencies in this time of change and uncertainty. The groups then spent the afternoon brainstorming strategies to address opportunities. Facilitators briefly presented the results from their sessions to the entire group at the close of the day. Four county commissioners responded with their thoughts on the current and future status of Human Services in Orange County. Results The following information highlights the ideas generated by the seven groups, as well as reflections of the HSAC members. The complete notes from each of the seven groups is available upon request. Several points seemed to be reiterated by more than one group. • The main concept of viewing human services workers as service brokers and consultants versus service providers was a consistent theme. In order to effectively make this shift, many participants expressed a desire to see the client as more of a partner in determining the needed services, as well as, identifying the method for obtaining such services. This shift will require planning by each agency and training for employees. Responsible Parties: Agencies • Peer support and peer mentoring mechanisms for clients was strongly endorsed. In order to incorporate some of these changes, human services agencies will have to examine their current mode of operations, and take a new approach to helping those who need services. Staff will require training if they are to assume new roles effectively. Responsible Parties: Agencies An important message from many participants was that the work done at the forum should be continued throughout the year. The HSAC recommends the creation of a mechanism for continued communications among area agencies. This may be achieved through providing additional opportunities for human services personnel to work together; the dissemination of a newsletter; or some other means. Responsible Parties: HSAC, County Government • The types of change that were expressed by the participants will have to take place at the individual agency level. Each agency will be requested to reexamine its mission and the use of its personnel. Responsible Parties: Agencies • Training resources must be identified for program evaluation; producing outcome measures; shifting from service providers to service brokers; defining priorities in a time of increased demands for assistance; and developing peer support and peer mentoring programs for client, etc. Responsible Parties: Agencies, University, County Government • Agencies should join together at common locations such as schools, libraries, or community sites to provide comprehensive assistance to consumers. This group of collaborators could move to different locations across the county to be most accessible. The County could support initiatives such as these with financial incentives. Responsible Parties: Agencies, County Government • The development of collaborative efforts among the university, the hospital, and area agencies is needed to combat community issues. If we can take the initiative and decide how we are going to make some of these changes in Orange County, then we can ultimately develop our own unique service system designed for the needs of our citizens. Responsible Parties: Healthy Carolinians Task Force • Two groups focused on the necessity to keep the best interests of our clients, or service consumers, in the forefront during this time of flux. We need to define the "safety net," or minimum standard of life that we are willing to provide, and determine how these basic services will be funded and provided. While a goal of all or our services is to foster independence, we must also help those who become independent to maintain that status. For example, we need to continue services like Medicaid, for people as they obtain employment, and to assist with day care, transportation and other services that can help people keep their jobs. Peer support can be implemented to help consumers develop their own support systems which will foster self-support. Responsible Parties: Agencies, County Government, HSAC Conclusion As the year progresses and changes begin to unfold, HSAC members will continue a dialogue with human services personnel, county commissioners, and consumers to assist with issues of coordination and sharing of information. Each agency will have to look closely at its system of service provision, and find new ways of helping consumers meet their needs. HSAC members will also solicit information and ideas from agency personnel to assist in determining our best role for continuing the dialogue between human services agencies in our county. A list of HSAC members is attached. Your comments and suggestions are requested in order that the work of one day can continue throughout the year. Summary of Opportunities/Strategies Group A - Facilitator, Beverly Foster Opportunity: Time for a paradigm shift from service providers to resource consultants to foster client independence. Strategies: 1. Value the individuals contributions by: training citizen volunteers on advisory boards, responding to Task Force Reports with follow-up, and using the consumers as a source of information and ideas for solutions. 2. Agencies need to reevaluate goals internally and determine the value of their services to the community. Group B - Facilitator, Jan Schopler Opportunity: A chance for effective collaboration and expanded participation. Strategies: 1. Redefine agencies role from service provider to service facilitator. Agencies need to identify outcomes, enable consumer input and advocacy, evaluate program effectiveness, monitor for quality assurance, determine best allocation of resources, promote user-friendly services and easy access, and provide linkages through technology. 2. Use existing collaborative efforts to deal with current.issues, and hold forums for agencies to either improve or expand collaboration around specific issues. Group C - Facilitator, Tony Dalton Opportunity:.There is a "tornado" coming in 12-18 months. There is a sense of urgency. We cannot afford to wait. ,Strategies: 1. Define the net for the most vulnerable, and involve consumers in the definition and redesign of service delivery. 2. Continue the dialogue begun by the forum being sure to involve all agencies and other concerned groups like churches and schools. Consider forming a task force to address human services issues on an ongoing basis. 3. Use HSAC as a voice for advocating change. Group D - Facilitator, Barbara Rynerson Opportunity: Support consumers during transition to achieve independence. Strategies: 1. Determine the original need that each family had for seeking assistance service and include families in setting goals. Provide follow-up which includes peer mentoring and peer support. 2. Local administration/leadership needs to convey a genuine desire to initiate a process of change based on consumer input. 3. Identify health insurance provisions for those moving off Medicaid. Group E - Facilitator, Charlotte Jones Opportunity: Provide access to services through decentralization. Strategies: 1. Options for increased access to services; kiosks in malls, automated access sites, use of technology to facilitate access through expansion of the Master Client Index, and automated ability to complete applications and make referrals. 2. Use a team approach for service delivery (such as including nurses from the Health Dept, social worker from DSS, and so forth) and placing the team in convenient community locations. The team could be "circuit riders" and move to various communities in the county. Group F- Facilitator, Ned Brooks Opportunity: Strengthen University and community partnerships. Strategies: 1. Create an 800 number to share information easily. 2. Build affordable housing on University land. 3. Work together to solve parking and transportation problems. 4. Give joint University and Orange County Public Service Awards. 5. The University could allocate a certain amount of its resources to helping the community through research, student interns and public awareness. Group G- Facilitator, Phil Cooke Opportunity: Now is the time for local planning and decision making. Strategies: 1. Develop a human services planning and evaluation mechanism with adequate staff. Z. Build on governmental and non-governmental structures that are already in place. Involve consumers in the planning and change process. 4. Work to influence state officials to recognize county autonomy and local ability to define and plan for the use of state, local and federal resources. Human Services Advisory Commission Mary Bacon 732-3282 Phil Cooke 962-1225 3801 St. Mary's Road 317 Warren Way Hillsborough NC 27278 Chapel Hill NC 27516 Tony Dalton 966-5463 Anita Daniels 929-7273 P. O. Box 187 P. O. Box 845 Efland NC 27243 Chapel Hill NC 27514 Bonnie Davis 732-8181 Beverly Foster 966-5435 Hwy 57 2454 Springview Trail Hillsborough NC 27278 Chapel Hill NC 27514 Chris Gurley 932-3000 Charlotte Jones 644-6247 205-G W. Poplar Ave. 218 S. Churton Street, Suite B Carrboro NC 27510 Hillsborough NC 27278 Leroy Jones 732-4291 Jan Riordan 966-1527 204 W. Corbin Street 6700 Bradshaw Farm Road Hillsborough NC 27278 Efland NC 27243 Sue Russell 967-3272 Barbara Rynerson 966-5363 P. O. Box 901 101 Pebble Court Chapel Hill NC 27514 Chapel Hill NC 27514 Lorraine Shields 732-4210 Shirley Siegel . 408-0514 341 Saint Marys Road 14 Litchford Road Hillsborough NC 27278 Chapel Hill NC 27514 Karen Taylor 966-2559 Don Willhoit 962-5507 1018 Mt. Carmel Church Rd. Orange County Commissioner Chapel Hill NC 27514 203 Lexington Road Chapel Hill NC 27516 •••tp o! �� ' i i! ` b�a ORANGE COUNTY DEPARTMENT O ` 014 a=t• 300 West Tryon Street Post Of Ace Box 8 18 1 r Hillsborough, NC 27278 Jerry M. Passifflxe Orange County Commissioners FAX: 644-3044 Director From: George B. Snowden, Sr., Chair: Advisory Board on Aging Subject: Goal Setting Reference: County Commissioners' memorandum dated 11/10/95. Subject: Board of Commissioners Goal Setting Retreat At the 11/16/95 Advisory Board meeting, subject of"Goal Setting" was addressed and acted on. The Board voted unanimously to adopt and promote the following major themes for 1996: 1) "Outreach" 2) Transportation enhancement 3) Medication Purchase and proper use A brief description for each goal follows: Outreach: • Broaden Advisory Board members' activities such as monthly activity reports of each senior center/site • SHIIP* counseling at all senior centers/sites • Pilot program of future efforts could be monthly offering of SHIIP counseling and tax assistance • Incorporate medications Brown Bag efforts in outreach • Increase seniors' access to Advisory Board meetings via open discussion periods. Transportation: • Ongoing monitoring and assessment of transportation services for the elderly, medically needy, and adequate senior centers/sites access Medications: • Increase services of Brown Bag assessments • Provide information on medication cost and assistance for low income seniors Based on the above outline I feel that our goals provide opportunities for all seniors to be assisted, and also provides for their participation. We ask for your endorsement and support. * SHIIP: Seniors' Health Insurance Information Program provides trained volunteers who help seniors with medical bills and insurance questions and problems. f 732-8181 Hillsborough 968-4501 Chapel Hill 688-7331 Durham (910) 227-2031 Mebane N C Orange County Recreation and Parks Department ` ' P.O.Sox 8181 a 800 W.Tryon Street a Hillsborough,NC 27278 4T ;efr8 gote��`. MEMORANDUM TEUPHONEs ARFA CODE 919 782.8181 %7-9251 TO: Orange County Board of County Commissioners x)22 (910)227-2001 NIGHT:644-9010 FROM: Lorraine Parker, Chair FAX-644-9042 Recreation & Parks Advisory Council DATE: December 6, 1995 RE: Goals and Objectives for 1996 Please find below a list of the goals and objectives that the Orange County Recreation & Parks Advisory Council set at our December meeting for 1996. 1. Continue to pursue land acquisition. 2. Community schools park concept. 3. Negotiate with OWASA regarding park site at the Cane Creek Reservoir. First Union National Bank of North Carolina Main Office 10% East Franklin Street • Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27514 919 932-2200 FON November 14, 1995 Mr. Moses Carey, Jr. Chairman Orange County Commissioners P.O. Box 8181 200 S. Cameron Street Hillsborough,NC 27278 Re: Board of Commissioners'Goal Setting Retreat/Economic Development Commission Priorities Dear Chairman Carey: Thank you for your letter of November 10, 1995 regarding the Commissioners' Goal Setting Retreat. The top two priorities of the Economic Development Commission are: 1) Strategic Plan Update and 2) Orange County Loan Pool. As you will recall,we apprised the Commissioners on our progress on the Strategic Plan Update at your October 17 meeting, and we anticipate a final report and recommendation to the Commissioners in February 1996. With regard to the Loan Pool,we are scheduled to make a presentation to the Commissioners at your meeting on Monday,December 4. Unless you see a need for us to elaborate on these priorities at your goal setting retreat,I believe that the EDC is satisfied that the Commissioners are aware of our priorities. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions. Thank you again for soliciting our feedback. Sincerely, AAA' 044--1 ' Karen Sanders Raleigh Vice President and City Executive Chair Orange County Economic Development Commission cc: Ted Abernathy ORANGE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS P.O. Box 8181 200 S. Cameron Street Hillsborough, N.C. 27278 Moses Carey,Jr. 919.732.8181 William L. Crowther 919.968.4301 Alice M. Gordon 919-688.7331 Stephen H.Halkiotis 910.227.2031 Don Willhoit (Fa4 919-644-3004 MEMORANDUM TO: Orange County Boards and Commissions FROM: Moses Carey, Jr. 7//1/ i DATE: November 10, 1995 SUBJECT: BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS' GOAL SETTING RETREAT As you may be aware, we have been revising our goal setting process to make it more meaningful and efficient. We want to place emphasis on those issues and programs of highest priority to the citizens of Orange County. We are still striving to position ourselves to meet the future challenges facing Orange County. We realize that this is short notice, however, we ask that you communicate to us by December 1 the top one or two priorities of your Board or Commission for the next fiscal year. We fully recognize that your top priorities may be continuing functions or needs which have not been addressed or new ones which have come to your attention. This year we plan to reserve some time to hear from some of you in person. While we cannot hear from all of you on this day, we will allocate 10-15 minutes to some boards or commissions . The main purpose of this time will be to raise consciousness levels for problems or potential solutions to issues we will face in the future. If you are interested in participating on behalf of your board or commission, please send your priorities to Beverly Blythe in writing and contact her to indicate your desire to participate on December 9. We will contact you about times of the session. You will have the opportunity to comment on the draft set of strategic priorities and goals developed from our December 9, 1995 goal retreat. Your comments will be helpful to us in finalizing these priorities. We thank you for volunteering your time in service to the citizens of Orange County and we welcome your views in our policy making process . By working together we can continue to make Orange County the best. CC: Staff Support YOU COUNT IN ORANGE COUNTY.