HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 12-01-2014 APPROVED 1/22/2015
MINUTES
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING
December 1, 2014
7:00 p.m.
The Orange County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Monday,
December 1, 2014 at 7:00 p.m. at the Whitted Building in Hillsborough, N.C.
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Chair Earl McKee and Commissioners Mark Dorosin,
Barry Jacobs, Bernadette Pelissier, Renee Price, Penny Rich, and Mia Burroughs
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS ABSENT:
COUNTY ATTORNEYS PRESENT: John Roberts
COUNTY STAFF PRESENT: County Manager Bonnie Hammersley, Assistant County
Managers Clarence Grier, Cheryl Young and Clerk to the Board Donna 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 Jacobs called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Resolution of Commendation for Commissioner Alice M. Gordon
Chair Jacobs read the following resolution:
ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
RESOLUTION OF COMMENDATION FOR
COMMISSIONER ALICE M. GORDON
WHEREAS, the voters of Orange County elected Alice M. Gordon to the Board of County
Commissioners in 1990 and re-elected her in 1994, 1998, 2002, 2006 and 2010; and
WHEREAS, Commissioner Alice Gordon was elected Chair of the Board of Commissioners in
1999; and
WHEREAS, Commissioner Gordon has proven to be a dedicated and effective public servant
who, as she said on the campaign trail, "does her homework" including combing through every
agenda item with keen focus on detail, gaining the respect of all who have known her in both
the public and private sectors; and
WHEREAS, during her tenure as an Orange County Commissioner, Alice M. Gordon has
shared her talent for leadership and public service through her work on numerous committees,
boards, and task forces focusing on public education, environmental protection, and regional
transportation; and
WHEREAS, Commissioner Gordon chaired the Schools and Land Use Council, the county-
wide group of elected officials that crafted the Schools Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance to
plan ahead for future school needs; and
WHEREAS, Commissioner Gordon chaired the Durham-Chapel Hill-Carrboro Metropolitan
Planning Organization's Transportation Advisory Committee (TAC), and has also served as
Chair of the Triangle Transit Board of Trustees, the regional public transit agency; and
WHEREAS, Commissioner Gordon served as a member of the North Carolina Association of
County Commissioners' Environment Steering Committee and the National Association of
Counties' Environment, Energy and Land Use Steering Committee; and
WHEREAS, in 2006 Leadership Triangle honored Commissioner Gordon with the Goodmon
Award for Exemplary Regional Leadership by an Elected Official for her contributions in the
areas of environmental protection and regional transportation; and
WHEREAS, Commissioner Gordon was a key member of the Board when it launched the
County's nationally recognized "Lands Legacy Program" as the first comprehensive county
land acquisition program in North Carolina, an approach that won the Excellence in County
Planning Award from the National Association of County Planners; and
WHEREAS, as Chair of the Transportation Advisory Committee of the Durham-Chapel Hill-
Carrboro Metropolitan Planning Organization in 2007 and 2008, Commissioner Gordon helped
lead the effort to create the 2035 regional long range transportation plan, earning the MPO the
National Award for Outstanding Achievement in Metropolitan Transportation Planning, which
commended this collaborative effort for exemplary practice within the planning process; and
WHEREAS, the Orange County Board of Commissioners desires, on behalf of County officials
and employees, and the residents of Orange County, to express to Commissioner Alice
Gordon their deep appreciation and gratitude for the services rendered by her to the County
over the past 24 years;
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Orange County Board of Commissioners
offers Commissioner Alice Gordon our very best wishes for success, happiness, prosperity and
good health in her future endeavors.
This, the first day of December 2014.
A motion was made by Commissioner Price, seconded by Commissioner McKee to
approve the Resolution of Commendation for Commissioner Alice M. Gordon.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
Commissioner Gordon thanked everyone for the resolution of commendation and photo
of the Board of County Commissioners. She said the most significant thing that she wanted to
say is thank you to the Board of County Commissioners, the Orange County staff, her
colleagues in public education, the public who elected her, and her family.
Commissioner Gordon said her contributions and passions have been in environment
and education. In the area of education, she said she has always had an interest in excellent
schools, and her most enduring legacy will be the new science wing at Culbreth Middle School
and the Schools Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance (SAPFO). She hopes that the Board of
County Commissioners will fund a program to renovate all of the older schools.
She said in the area of the environment, she has always had an interest in
environmental protection and stewardship. She said her most enduring legacy will be the
Lands Legacy program and the Department of Environment Agriculture Parks and Recreation
(DEAPR). She believes that environmental protection is an important separate part of the
government and she hopes these programs will continue.
Commissioner Gordon said she is concerned about global climate change, and she
hopes the County will continue its efforts to do everything possible to address this challenge
and prepare for the future climate change events that are sure to come. She said it is
important to think globally and act locally to address climate change.
Commissioner Gordon thanked the people of Orange County, the Board of County
Commissioners, Orange County staff, the advisory boards and commissions, all of her
colleagues throughout the County, the residents of Orange County who have elected her all
these years, and her family. She thanked everyone for a marvelous 24 years.
Resolution Recoqnizinq Oranqe County Reqister of Deeds Deborah Brooks
Commissioner McKee read the following resolution:
ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING ORANGE COUNTY
REGISTER OF DEEDS DEBORAH BROOKS
WHEREAS, Deborah Brooks has served the residents of Orange County as Register of Deeds
since her election to the office in 2010; and,
WHEREAS, Deborah Brooks started her career in the Register of Deeds Office in 1975; and,
WHEREAS, Ms. Brooks has served the residents of Orange County for 39 years in the
Register of Deeds Office in an efficient, effective, and welcoming manner; and,
WHEREAS, Register Brooks truly represents "starting at the bottom and working to the top", as
her first job was during her high school years as a temporary employee and is
now retiring as the Register of Deeds; and,
WHEREAS, in addition to recording and maintaining property related documents as required
by law, she has also maintained vital records including marriage licenses, birth
and death certificates and military discharges; and,
WHEREAS, Register of Deeds Brooks has been instrumental in training and guiding a highly
competent staff, and has fostered a customer-service ethic that reflects well on all
of Orange County government;
NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved that the Orange County Board of Commissioners does
hereby recognize Deborah Brooks for her 39 years of service to the people of
Orange County and wishes her well in the future endeavors she undertakes with
her customary determination, thoroughness and warmth.
This, the 1 St day of December 2014.
A motion was made by Commissioner Rich, seconded by Commissioner Gordon to
approve a resolution recognizing Register of Deeds Deborah Brooks.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
Resolution Recoqnizinq Oranqe County Sheriff Lindy Penderqrass
Commissioner Price read the following resolution:
ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING ORANGE COUNTY
SHERIFF LINDY PENDERGRASS
WHEREAS, Lindy Pendergrass has served the residents of Orange County as Sheriff for 32
years; and,
WHEREAS, the Sheriff was elected by the voters of Orange County in 1982, 1986, 1990,
1994, 1998, 2002, 2006, and 2010; and,
WHEREAS, Sheriff Pendergrass joined the Chapel Hill Police Department in 1957; and,
WHEREAS, Sheriff Pendergrass has served the people of Orange County in a law
enforcement capacity for 57 years; and,
WHEREAS, during Sheriff Pendergrass' tenure the number of sworn personnel in the
department has grown from 20 to 100 and the capacity of the jail has expanded
from 47 to 130 inmates; and,
WHEREAS, the Sheriff has promoted the importance of training by sending his staff to classes
conducted by the Department of Homeland Security, the FBI, the DEA, as well as
other training and certifying agencies to prepare his staff for the challenges of law
enforcement; and,
WHEREAS, Sheriff Pendergrass has fostered a service-oriented approach to law enforcement
that inspires trust and confidence in the general public, as well as collaborative
relationships with other law enforcement entities;
NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved that the Orange County Board of Commissioners does
hereby recognize Sheriff Lindy Pendergrass for his 32 years as Sheriff, serving
the people of Orange County and wishes him well as he embraces the benefits of
life outside public service.
This, the 1 St day of December 2014.
A motion was made by Commissioner Gordon, seconded by Commissioner Rich to
approve a resolution recognizing Orange County Sheriff Lindy Pendergrass.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
Oaths of Office for Board Members
• Senator Valerie Foushee administered the oath to Commissioner-Elect Mia
Burroughs.
Commissioner Burroughs thanked the voters.
• Judge Allan Baddour administered the oath to Commissioner Barry Jacobs
Chair Jacobs thanked the people of Orange County, County staff, and his wife for the
support.
• Senator Valerie Foushee administered the oath to Commissioner Earl McKee
Commissioner McKee thanked his family members for their support, as well as the
Board members and staff of the County.
Board Orqanization
a. Election of Chair and Vice-Chair
The clerk distributed the ballots for Chair and Vice Chair.
- Election of Chair - Earl McKee -VOTE 7-0
- Election of Vice Chair - Bernadette Pelissier -VOTE - 4 votes for Commissioner Pelissier; 3
votes for Commissioner Rich
b. Desiqnation of Votinq Deleqate for all NCACC and NACo Meetinqs for Calendar
Year December 1, 2014-2015
A motion was made by Commissioner Rich seconded by Commissioner porosin to
nominate Commissioner Price as the Voting Delegate for all NCACC and NACo Meetings for
Calendar Year December 1, 2014-2015
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
Appointments
a. Manaqer
A motion was made by Commissioner porosin, seconded by Commissioner Price to
appoint Bonnie Hammersley as Manager.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
b. Attorney
A motion was made by Commissioner porosin, seconded by Commissioner Pelissier to
appoint John Roberts as the County Attorney.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
c. Clerk to the Board
A motion was made by Commissioner porosin, seconded by Commissioner Rich to
appoint Donna Baker as Clerk to the Board.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
1. Additions or Chanqes to the Aqenda
■ Lavender sheet for item 6f- Schools Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance (Schools
SAPFO) -Approval of Membership and Capacity Numbers
■ Substitute document for item 7a — Consideration of the Town of Chapel Hill's
Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ) Extension Request
■ Additional sheet related to item 7a
■ Monthly report from the Planning Division
PUBLIC CHARGE
Chair McKee dispensed with the reading of the public charge.
2. Public Comments
a. Matters not on the Printed Aqenda
Don O'Leary gave a warm welcome to Commissioner Burroughs. He showed the
Board members a book on fluoride, which he loaned to them. He said he has not heard
anything from the County about his concerns.
Cecilia Thompson said her husband died in 2009, and his death certificate was falsified
in Orange County. She said her family has been fighting for 6 years to get this government
document corrected. She said $3 million of her husband's assets were taken, and she has not
been allowed to access documents and property that she has requested. She said she has
been denied access at the tax office and the estates department. She said she has gotten an
order from a judge to have the death certificate corrected, but in the meantime, she was told
that there has been an annulment. She asked the Board to speak with Attorney John Roberts
to request his help with this matter.
b. Matters on the Printed Aqenda
3. Petitions by Board Members
Commissioner Rich petitioned that Chair McKee talk with the Town Mayors to
encourage the towns to appoint their representatives to the County boards and commissions.
Commissioner Rich requested information from staff regarding where the County's
petitions funds are invested and how these are managed.
Commissioner Price said the Adult Care Home Community Advisory Committee invited
her to their November meeting. She said the members of this group would like to inform the
Board of their work in assuring quality of life for older adults in Orange County. She petitioned
the Board to add this committee to an upcoming agenda in order to allow them to present a
report.
Commissioner Price said she heard that the Rogers Road Community Center is unable
to open at this time. She asked staff for a report explaining this delay and whether there is
anything Orange County can do to facilitate opening and use of the center.
Commissioner Pelissier asked Chair McKee to reach out to Chatham County to request
re-instatement of the Orange — Chatham Work Group.
Commissioner porosin referred to his earlier petition regarding a gun buy-back
program. He noted that the new sheriff is here tonight. He referred to an article that
references a buy-back program in Fayetteville where 250 guns were taken in 2 hours. He
petitioned the new Chair and Vice Chair to revisit this idea with the new sheriff.
Chair McKee referred to the petition regarding the Rogers Road Community Center,
and he asked Jeff Thompson to give a report.
Jeff Thompson said the facility has a temporary Certificate of Occupancy (CO), but
there are some issues that the Chapel Hill inspections staff is working through. He said the
facility is not being withheld from occupancy, but town staff has requested that major
programming activity be postponed until those issues are resolved. He said this should
happen any day now.
4. Proclamations/ Resolutions/ Special Presentations
a. Voluntary and Enhanced Aqricultural District Desiqnation — Multiple Farms —
Gledhill, McAdams, Anderson, McKniqht/Hawley, and Scarlett
The Board considered applications from multiple landowners/farms of certified
qualifying farmland within the Cedar Grove, Schley/Eno, Efland/High Rock, and White Cross
Voluntary Agricultural Districts; and enroll the lands in the Orange County Voluntary
Agricultural District (VAD) and the Enhanced Voluntary Agricultural District (EVAD) programs.
Gail Hughes presented the following PowerPoint slides:
Orange County
Voluntary and Enhanced Voluntary
Agricultural District Program
Orange County Board of Commissioners Meeting
Dec. 1, 2014
Orange County VAD/EVAD Program
Benefits of Agricultural Districts
➢ The Voluntary Agricultural Program is a locally led program, with review and oversight
from the Agriculture Preservation Board (appointed by the BOCC); endorsed and
supported by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
➢ Voluntary Agricultural District (VAD) is a 10 year commitment but the landowner can
withdraw from the VAD program at any time, for any reason, with a 30 day notification
to the Agriculture Preservation Board.
➢ Enhanced Voluntary Agricultural District (EVAD) is an irrevocable 10 year commitment,
therefore the "enhanced" level qualifies farm for 90% cost share rates -through State
programs- and a priority for Farmland Preservation grants funds.
Benefits include:
➢ Makes public more aware of the local agricultural and its vital role in the economics of
the county;
➢ Recorded notice of agricultural district is recorded at County Land Records office;
➢ Land search on all properties within a '/2 mile radius is notified of the agricultural status,
therefore, the landowner has increased protection from nuisance lawsuits.
➢ Public hearings for proposed condemnation of VAD land and utility assessments may
be suspended or waived on EVAD land if not connected to the utility.
➢ Farm may receive up to 25% of gross sales from the sale of non-farm products and still
maintain its zoning exemption as a bona fide farm. (EVAD only)
Geoffrey and Jane Gledhill
Cedar Grove Windy Hill Farm
Cedar Grove Agricultural District
Farm includes beef cattle, dairy goats, pasture, fruit trees, blueberries, shiitake
mushrooms, honeybees, and managed woodland.
EVAD = 38.88 acres
Howard and Karen McAdams
McAdams Farm
Efland/High Rock Agricultural District
Farm includes vegetables, strawberries, mushrooms, beef cattle, sheep, pasture and
hay crops and managed woodland.
VAD = 13.42 acres
(Farm in VAD program: 192 acres + additional acres= 205 ac.)
Stephen and Marsha Scarlett
Cedar Grove Agricultural District
Farm includes beef cattle, pasture and hay crops, and managed woodland.
VAD = 37.29 acres
Portia McKnight and Florence Hawley
Chapel Hill Creamery
White Cross Agricultural District
Farm includes dairy cattle and other small livestock, pasture and hay land.
Chapel Hill Creamery is known for their award winning cheeses.
(In a Conservation Easement program with OWASA to protect tributaries of Morgan
Creek.)
EVAD= 37.07 acres
Nels and Nancy Anderson
(Holden-Roberts Farm)
Schley/Eno Agricultural District
Farm includes hay crops and managed woodland/forestry.
VAD= 95.95 acres
Farm on the National Register of Historic Places
Orange County Voluntary and Enhanced Voluntary Agricultural District Program
➢ All Farms have been reviewed by staff, meets or exceeds the minimum criteria, and
have been approved by the Agricultural Preservation Board for enrollment into the VAD
program
➢ Requesting final approval from Commissioners to accept five (5) farms into the
Voluntary Agricultural Program. Increase of:
➢ 146.6 acres in the VAD
➢ 75.9 acres in the EVAD.
➢ If approved, total of acres in both programs:
VAD = 6191 acres
EVAD = 953 acres
➢ Total Acres in Orange County Voluntary Agricultural Program = 7144 acres
• Overview Map
December 2014
• VAD = 6191 acres
• EVAD = 953 acres
Total Acres = 7144*
• R�d indicates farm location of new VAD/EVAD applicants
* rounded acres
A motion was made by Commissioner Pelissier, seconded by Commissioner Rich for
the Board certify the five (5) farm properties noted above totaling 146.66 acres (VAD) and
75.95 acres (EVAD) as denoted in the attached documentation as qualifying farmland, and
designate them as Voluntary or Enhanced Voluntary Agricultural District farms within the Cedar
Grove, Efland/High Rock, Schley/Eno, and White Cross Voluntary Agricultural Districts; and
enroll
the lands in the Orange County Voluntary Agricultural District (VAD) and the Enhanced
Voluntary Agricultural District (EVAD) programs.
With approval of these additional acres, the Orange County Voluntary Agricultural
District Program will have enrolled 56 farms; totaling 6,191 acres in the VAD and 953 acres in
the EVAD for a total of 7,144 acres (rounded).
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
Commissioner Pelissier asked that the Chair send a letter of appreciation to all of the
people who enroll in the Voluntary Agricultural District. She said this is an important thing for
the County, and it warrants personal recognition.
Chair McKee said the staff also deserves recognition for their work in increasing the
acreage in this program.
b. Proclamation - Human Riqhts Day, Bill of Riqhts Day, and Human Riqhts Week
The Board considered officially recognizing Human Rights Day, Bill of Rights Day and
Human Rights Week in Orange County during the month of December 2014 and authorizing
the Chair to sign.
HRC member Rollin Russell said this is a timely recognition. He read the following
resolution:
ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, on December 10, 1948, the member states of the United Nations signed the
Universal Declaration of Human Rights and countries of different political,
economic and social systems agreed on the fundamental rights that all people
share solely on the basis of their common humanity; and
WHEREAS, Human Rights Day and Human Rights Week were adopted by the United Nations
in connection with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; and
WHEREAS, Bill of Rights Day was first declared in 1941 by President Franklin Delano
Roosevelt to commemorate the 1791 Ratification of the Bill of Rights; and
WHEREAS, it was the North Carolina convention, held in Hillsborough, which was instrumental
regarding the inclusion of a Bill of Rights as part of ratifying the United States
Constitution; and
WHEREAS, the Bill of Rights guarantees, among other basic liberties, freedom of speech and
of the press as well as freedom of religion and association; and
WHEREAS, the Bill of Rights states that no person shall be deprived of life, liberty or property
without due process of law and establishes fundamental rules of fairness in
judicial proceedings, including the right to trial by jury; and
WHEREAS, the primary responsibility to promote respect for these rights and freedoms lies
with each individual in Orange County, and each of us can play a major role in
enhancing human rights; and
WHEREAS, the residents of Orange County support Human Rights and recognize that the
"inherent dignity and the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the
human family are the foundation of freedom, justice and peace;"
NOW, THEREFORE, We, The Board of County Commissioners of Orange County, North
Carolina, do hereby proclaim:
December 10, 2014 as Human Rights Day, and
December 15, 2014 as Bill of Rights Day, and
December 10 — 16, 2014 as Human Rights Week
in Orange County and challenge residents to study and promote the ideas contained in these
documents to the end that freedom, justice, and equality shall not perish but will flourish and
be made available to all.
This, the 1 St day of December 2014.
A motion was made by Commissioner Jacobs, seconded by Commissioner Rich for the
Board to adopt the Proclamation regarding Human Rights Day, Bill of Rights Day and Human
Rights Week and authorize the Chair to sign the Proclamation.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
Rolin Russell said he is the chair of the sub-committee of HRC on diversity, and he
invited the Board members to attend the Human Relations Forum that will take place on
January 25, 2015, in celebration of the 95th anniversary of the passage of the 19th amendment.
b. Resolution in Support of Equal Access for Immiqrant Children
The Board considered adopting a resolution declaring that Orange County, North
Carolina, is a welcoming community in support of equal access to the fundamental right of
public education, basic health care, and the protection of law enforcement for immigrant
children and authorizing the Chair to sign.
Human Relations Commission Chair poris Brunson read the following resolution:
ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF EQUAL ACCESS FOR IMMIGRANT CHILDREN
WHEREAS, Orange County, North Carolina, is a compassionate and caring community that is
committed to creating a welcoming atmosphere that values equality and social justice; and
WHEREAS, the number of unaccompanied children and minors from Central American nations
seeking refuge in the United States has dramatically risen over the last three years; and
WHEREAS, the vast majority of the children seeking refuge in the United States are fleeing
extreme violence and poverty, including from Guatemala, EI Salvador, and Honduras; and
WHEREAS, Honduras is the country with the world's highest murder rate, while EI Salvador's
murder rate is the fourth highest in the world; and
WHEREAS, the majority of the children entering the United States are returning to parents or
other family members who are present in the United States, including those children coming to
North Carolina; and
WHEREAS, approximately 1,429 of these children have been placed in North Carolina since
January 2014; and
WHEREAS, those children arriving in our community have the right under the United States
Constitution to equal access to a public education, basic health care, and the protection of law
enforcement;
NOW THEREFORE, be it resolved that the Orange County Board of Commissioners hereby:
• Affirms that Orange County is a welcoming community to children seeking
refuge from violence in their home countries and to the sponsors of these
children;
• Affirms the rights of children to attend public schools and to access basic health
care in the county they reside, without regards to their immigration status;
• Urges our congressional representatives, the Obama Administration, the
Department of Homeland Security, and Governor Pat McCrory to ensure that
the thousands of minors seeking safety within our borders and being
apprehended by Border Patrol receive due process and legal representation in
court hearings;
• Directs the County Manager and all county departments to make services and
resources available to help welcome children into our community who are
seeking refuge from violence in their home countries;
• Encourages continuing collaboration between Orange County and other local
governmental entities and advocacy organizations to support and protect these
children; and
• Directs the Chair of the Board and the Clerk to forward this Resolution to each
of the local governments in Orange County, including both Boards of Education,
and respectfully requests that each consider adopting similar resolutions, and
also forward this resolution to our state legislative delegation, and to the North
Carolina Association of Counties.
Adopted this, the 1 St day of December, 2014.
Doris Brunson said this is an important issue. She noted that many opponents state
that the children are not taxpayers, but she can affirm that no child pays taxes when they are
in school. She said the parents who have taken in these children pay taxes every day.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
Sarah Preston is policy director of the ACLU of N.C. She thanked the Board for
considering this resolution and for supporting the children who come to this community fleeing
violence in their home countries. She said these children risk so much to be reunited with
family members or placed with caregivers, and we should protect them from the conditions
they are fleeing. She said these children should have legal representation and a hearing
before an immigration judge before they may be deported. She said the ACLU is part of a
class action lawsuit filed this summer to challenge the federal government's failure to provide
legal representation to these children at deportation hearings. She encouraged the Board to
support these children.
George Eppsteiner thanked Commissioner porosin and the Board for considering this
resolution. He said he is a staff attorney for the Southern Coalition for Social Justice, whose
mission is to support and enhance communities of color. He said this resolution is important
because it is part of a very important conversation regarding immigration. He said there have
been conversations in other counties that oppose this, and these children are being
considered a burden. He said these comments are troubling, and this is not a new issue. He
said the Supreme Court considered this issue 30 years ago and ruled that the state of Texas
could not deny undocumented students an education. He read some information from that
ruling. He urged the Board to pass this resolution upholding the constitutional right of
students to attend schools regardless of their immigration status.
Commissioner porosin said he appreciated the Human Rights Commission coming
forward and the ACLU and the Southern Coalition coming out. He said he and his colleagues
had first heard weeks ago that other counties were adopting anti-immigrant resolutions. He is
encouraged by tonight's resolution, and he said it is important to stake out a strong position on
this topic and to encourage others to do the same.
Commissioner Rich thanked Commissioner porosin for this resolution, and she said this
shows that the Board of County Commissioners is committed to this cause. She encouraged
the Board members to talk with adjoining counties about this resolution.
Commissioner Jacobs said he would send a copy of this resolution to each of the
counties on the clerk's listserve. He said it is important to fight those who would deny the
rights of others.
Chair McKee said it is discouraging to even need a resolution like this, as it should be
common sense to provide relief for these children.
A motion was made by Commissioner porosin, seconded by Commissioner Price for
the Board to adopt and authorize the Chair to sign the Resolution in Support of Equal Access
for Immigrant Children.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
5. Public Hearinqs
a. Comprehensive Plan and Unified Development Ordinance Text Amendments and
Zoninq Atlas Amendments to Establish Two New Zoninq Overlay Districts in the
Efland Area — Continue Public Hearinq to April 7, 2015
The Board considered continuing the public hearing until April 7, 2015 on Planning
Director initiated amendments to the Comprehensive Plan, Unified Development Ordinance,
and Zoning Atlas to establish two new zoning overlay districts in the Efland area (The primary
purpose of the overlay districts is to provide for a more village and urban style of development
in an area of the county served, or intended to be served, by public water and sewer
systems.).
Perdita Holtz said this extra time will allow staff time to attend neighborhood meetings
in order to gain more information on the proposed amendments.
Commissioner Jacobs said there was a group that was mentioned in the abstract that
would possibly be re-constituted. He asked who will decide this.
Perdita Holtz said the Efland- Mebane Small Area Plan Implementation Focus Group
may be called together again if changes are proposed to the text of the amendment. She said
at this time staff does not know if there will be changes or not.
Commissioner Jacobs asked if staff will let the Commissioners know the schedule of
the community meetings.
Perdita Holtz said the next meeting is December 17th, and the groups may decide to
meet more frequently after the holidays.
Commissioner Price said this process has been protracted. She asked if there is a
difference between the people organizing the community meetings and the small area
planning implementation focus group.
Perdita Holtz said yes, there is a difference. She said none of the people from the
focus group have been attending the community meetings.
Commissioner Price asked if the focus group is the same group that developed the
small area plan.
Perdita Holtz said some of the members are the same, and some are different. She
noted that the community meetings are not sponsored by the County, but if there are changes,
there will be a County sponsored meeting.
Commissioner Jacobs asked for a listing of the people in the groups.
Commissioner Price said she is curious who has been involved in this process, and she
wants to make sure there is a good cross section of people from the community participating.
Perdita Holtz noted that County staff has held a public information session where all
groups were invited to attend.
A motion was made by Commissioner Pelissier seconded by Commissioner Jacobs for
the Board to:
1. Open the public hearing that was adjourned at the September 8, 2014 Quarterly Public
Hearing;
2. Accept any oral comments that are also submitted in writing (as required by Section 2.8.8
and 2.8.9 of the Unified Development Ordinance); and
3. Adjourn the public hearing until April 7, 2015.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
6. Consent Aqenda
• Removal of Any Items from Consent Agenda
Item 6-f was pulled.
• Approval of Remaining Consent Agenda
A motion was made by Commissioner Rich, seconded by Commissioner Price to
approve the remaining items on the Consent Agenda.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
a. Minutes
The Board approved the minutes from October 16, 2014 as submitted by the Clerk to the
Board.
b. Motor Vehicle Property Tax Releases/Refunds
The Board adopted a resolution, which is incorporated by reference, to release motor vehicle
property tax values for twelve (12) taxpayers with a total of fifteen (15) bills that will result in a
reduction of revenue in accordance with NCGS.
c. Property Tax Releases/Refunds
The Board adopted a resolution, which is incorporated by reference, to release property tax
values for six (6) taxpayers with a total of six (6) bills that will result in a reduction of revenue in
accordance with North Carolina General Statute 105-381.
d. Applications for Property Tax Exemption/Exclusion
The Board approved five (5) untimely applications for exemption/exclusion from ad valorem
taxation for five (5) bills for the 2014 tax year.
e. Resolution Adiustinq the Salaries of the Sheriff and Reqister of Deeds Positions
The Board will approved a resolution providing notice of adjustment of the salaries of the
Sheriff and Register of Deeds positions and approving the bonds for both positions
g. Motor Vehicle Property Tax Releases/Refunds
The Board adopted a resolution, which is incorporated by reference, to release motor vehicle
property tax values for twelve (12) taxpayers with a total of fifteen (15) bills that will result in a
reduction of revenue in accordance with NCGS.
h. Property Tax Releases/Refunds
The Board adopted a resolution, which is incorporated by reference, to release property tax
values for six (6) taxpayers with a total of six (6) bills that will result in a reduction of revenue in
accordance with North Carolina General Statute 105-381.
i. Applications for Property Tax Exemption/Exclusion
The Board approved five (5) untimely applications for exemption/exclusion from ad valorem
taxation for five (5) bills for the 2014 tax year.
j. Resolution Adiustinq the Salaries of the Sheriff and Reqister of Deeds Positions
The Board approved a resolution providing notice of adjustment of the salaries of the Sheriff
and Register of Deeds positions and approving the bonds for both positions.
k. Schools Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance (Schools APFO) —Approval of
Membership and Capacity Numbers
The Board approved November 14, 2014 membership and capacity numbers for both school
districts (Orange County and Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools) which will be used in
developing 10-year student membership projections and the 2015 SAPFO Technical Advisory
Committee (SAPFOTAC) Report.
I. Applications for Grants from the NC Aqricultural Development and Farmland
Preservation Trust Fund and the Federal Aqricultural Conservation Easement
Proqram for the Pope Farm Conservation Easement
The Board authorized staff to apply for grants from the NC Agricultural Development and
Farmland Preservation (ADFP) Trust Fund and the federal Agricultural Conservation Easement
Program (ACEP) for funds to purchase a conservation easement at the Pope Farm in Cedar
Grove Township.
m. Cedar Grove Community Center Roof Replacement Bid Award
The Board awarded a bid to Muter Construction of Zebulon, North Carolina, in the amount of
$445,660 for replacement of the roof on the Cedar Grove Community Center; authorized the
Chair to sign the necessary paperwork upon final approval of the County Attorney; and
authorized the County Manager to execute change orders for the project up to the project
budget.
• Discussion and Approval of the Items Removed from the Consent Agenda
f. Schools Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance (Schools APFO) —Approval of
Membership and Capacity Numbers
Commissioner Price said the lavender sheet should be included, with the new numbers.
A motion was made by Commissioner Price, seconded by Commissioner Pelissier to
approve the November 14, 2014 membership and capacity numbers for both school districts
(Orange County and Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools) which will be used in developing 10-
year student membership projections and the 2015 SAPFO Technical Advisory Committee
(SAPFOTAC) Report.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
7. Reqular Aqenda
a. Consideration of the Town of Chapel Hill's Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ)
Extension Request (9:20-9:35)
The Board considered approving the extraterritorial jurisdiction request by the Town of
Chapel Hill and authorizing the County Manager to proceed with developing a long term plan
for the area.
Craig Benedict said there is an updated abstract for this item, which includes additional
background information. He said there is also additional information embedded in attachment
4.
Craig Benedict reviewed the following PowerPoint slides:
Chapel Hill Extraterritorial
Jurisdiction (ETJ)
Expansion Request
BOCC Regular Meeting
December 1, 2014
Item 7-a
Outline of Agenda Item
1. ETJ Expansion Request— NCGS 160A 360-364
2. Background: Joint Planning Area (JPA) — ETJ
3. Maps of Subject Area
4.1. Letter from Chapel Hill Mayor (10/15/2014)
4.2. Chapel Hill Staff Report
4.3. Municipal Public Hearing
5. County Review Process and Comment
6. Recommendations
7. Public Input
1. ETJ Expansion Request NCGS 160A 360-364
Regulated by North Carolina General Statutes (NCGS)
Proposed by Cities; Reviewed & Approved by Counties
Chapel Hill City Limits 12,658 +- acres
Chapel Hill ETJ (existing) 2,657 +- acres
Chapel Hill JPA (existing) 1,307 +- acres *1
Chapel Hill ETJ Expansion Request— 1,033 acres
Note 1: 1307 acres — 1033 acres = 274 acres of JPA would remain
2. Background JPA— ETJ
JPA— Agreement (Review Procedures), Land Use, Subdivision, Zoning, Building Code and
Annexation Limits; 1987
■ JPA Transition Areas (Urban) —Town
■ JPA Rural Buffer— County
ETJ — Similar but more autonomous land and building development regulations for specific
urban areas
— `Supplemental Powers' could provide enhanced funding opportunities.
TheJPAandannexation agreement remain in effect for areas outside of proposed ETJ
area.
3. Map of Area
4.1. Letter from Mayor
■ Unanimous vote for ETJ expansion request from Town
■ Accent on participating on sewer service funding for Historic Rogers Road
Neighborhood [Rogers Eubanks Neighborhood Association (RENA)]
■ Outreach by the Jackson Center highlighted 80% of area low and moderate income
4.2 Chapel Hill Staff Report
■ NCGS Municipal Application Criteria
■ Next Steps
— Long Term Planning
— Utility Provision
— County & Jointly Owned Properties
4.3. Municipal Public Hearing
■ October 21, 2013 Public Hearing
■ Petitions and letters of ETJ expansion support.
5. County Review Process and Comment
■ NCGS 160A 360-364
— Review - see Attachment 4 for specifics
— Population, Boundaries
— Zoning, Subdivision, Building Code
— Urban Planning
— Municipal Processes & Public Input
5. County Review Summary (con't)
■ Joint Planning Agreement and Associated Land Use Planning has led to collaborative
planning in the area for over 27 years
■ Multiple planning task forces in the Rogers Road / Eubanks Neighborhood Area have
more recently focused on current issues
■ ETJ jurisdiction permits another financial partner opportunities to address
unincorporated areas
■ Other cooperative efforts such as sidewalk installations may be easier to accomplish
■ Ensure a continuing mechanism for long-term planning in the area and educate area
representatives about planning context
■ JPA agreement remains as context for the larger area outside the ETJ request area
5. County Review Summary (con't)
■ Request meets or is consistent with requirements (see pages 150-158)
. Remaining county actions if approved
■ ETJ representation by County with appointment reflecting population
proportionality
6. Recommendations
■ Approve the Chapel Hill ETJ Expansion request
■ Engage in long-term planning in the area
NOTE: Upcoming activity by BOCC; Proceed with OWASA
Re: Final Sewer Engineering
Craig Benedict noted that there are also 35,000 acres in the rural buffer, which is part
of the joint planning area under Orange County's jurisdiction.
He noted on the area map that the dotted line representing the Rogers Road
Neighborhood shows the primary reason for the proposed ETJ expansion.
Craig Benedict said that petitions and letters of support from the general public
regarding this expansion are included in the packet.
He said if this expansion is approved, the population numbers will need to be re-
calculated to insure proper ETJ representation, and staff is already working on this calculation.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
Town Council Member Maria Palmer said the town council chambers were packed
when this item was discussed. She said Chapel Hill unanimously approved the expansion of
the ETJ to include the Rogers Road Neighborhood. She said this was done after much
deliberation, and this expansion is an attempt to try and right some historic wrongs. She said
the council heard from neighbors around the Rogers Road area, who endured years of
environmental damage and broken promises. She said these residents are ready to trust the
town again, even under the jurisdiction of a council that they did not elect. She said this is an
important step in righting some historic wrongs, and she hopes the Board will approve this
request.
Hudson Vaughn works at the Jackson Center. He said the center worked with RENA
this past summer and did some extensive community engagement. He referenced several
slides that were shown at the Chapel Hill Town Council. He said there was a focus on the
demographic data to enable Chapel Hill to move forward with this ETJ. He said once this data
was determined, there were a series of intensive community engagement strategies to educate
the community on what an ETJ would mean and what it would enable. He said the community
members expressed support for moving forward with this.
Commissioner Rich thanked Hudson Vaughn for doing this and asked him to share this
report with all of the members of the Board.
Commissioner Price asked if the landfill would be given back to Chapel Hill.
Craig Benedict said it would be a part of the ETJ for planning purposes. He said the
landfill would still be under the purview of Orange County, and there would be no changes in
that area.
Commissioner Jacobs asked how much more ETJ area will be left after this.
Craig Benedict said if this acreage is converted, there will be 274 acres of joint planning
area left in Chapel Hill. He said Carrboro has 1200 to 1300 acres of joint planning area.
Commissioner Jacobs said Craig Benedict commented that the County would be
looking at the Greene Tract with the Town of Chapel Hill. He asked for clarification on this.
Craig Benedict said this would be discussed because this new ETJ area would include
the Greene Tract that is under joint ownership with Chapel Hill and Carrboro. He said planning
began ten years ago to talk about the acreages and usage of what can go on in the jointly
owned area. He said as the long term plans are considered, the County would like to know the
future plans for the 18 acres of the Greene Tract
Commissioner Price asked about the reasoning for including the landfill in this area.
Craig Benedict said it would be better to have a comprehensive area within a similar
planning jurisdiction rather than a piece meal JPA/ETJ.
Commissioner Price said this was on the edge of the northwest area.
Town Council Member Palmer said in order for Chapel Hill to spend money in this area,
the town is looking at using part of the right of way. She said this has to do with the
infrastructure that has to go in to that area.
Commissioner porosin said this is a very thorough analysis from the planning
department. He said it is to everyone's benefit to be candid about what is being done here,
and this is all part of completing the overdue reparations to the Rogers Road area. He said
there could be lots of discussion about the voting for council leadership and other issues, but
the truth is that Chapel Hill already has that control as part of the joint planning agreement. He
said this approval is a critical and important step, and he encouraged everyone to keep
pushing this process forward.
Commissioner Jacobs said this is a much better rendering of the agenda item than
what the Board previously received. He said it would have been nice to have had an ETJ
transfer process in place before the Chapel Hill approval, but this is no reason not to proceed.
He said one of the main issues in the past JPA discussions was having adequate
representation for people in the ETJ areas. HE said this has been discussed thoroughly, and
he wants to be sure the residents are given every opportunity to speak.
Commissioner Pelissier said about a year ago the Board knew that Chapel Hill had to
vote on the ETJ. She is heartened that the Board can now make a positive vote, and she
thanked everyone that has been involved in this process. She said part of the
recommendation was to work on a long range plan for the community and she hopes that
these will be built upon the plans already developed by the town and the community.
Commissioner Rich referred to page 45 of the materials regarding representation on
the Chapel Hill Planning Board and the Board of Adjustments. She said there has not been
discussion about the Board of Adjustment, and she would suggest that this be part of the
future discussions with Chapel Hill.
Commissioner Burroughs said she is delighted to be able to support this historic
resolution.
Chair McKee called for a motion to approve the following resolution:
RESOLUTION
A RESOLUTION OF THE ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS AGREEING TO
AN EXTENSION OF THE TOWN OF CHAPEL HILL'S EXTRATERRITORIAL JURISDICTION
WHEREAS, N.C.G.S. 160A-360 allows a municipality to exercise powers conferred by
Article 19 of Chapter 160A of the North Carolina General Statutes within a defined
extraterritorial jurisdiction;
WHEREAS, N.C.G.S. 160A-360(c) requires a city and county to agree upon an
extension of a city's extraterritorial jurisdiction where a county enforces a zoning ordinance and
subdivision regulations and within which the county is enforcing the State Building Code
regulations;
WHEREAS, Orange county enforces a zoning ordinance and subdivision regulations
and enforces the State Building Code regulations within areas in the county which are outside
the Joint Planning Transition Areas, corporate limits and extraterritorial jurisdiction of cities;
WHEREAS, the Town of Chapel Hill wishes to extend its extraterritorial jurisdiction to
include property as noted in Appendix A (including map) which is adjacent to the Town of
Chapel Hill's corporate limits and/or exterritorial jurisdiction;
WHEREAS, Town Council desires to extend its extraterritorial jurisdiction and,
therefore, seeks the agreement of the Orange County Board of Commissioners for the
extension;
WHEREAS, this proposed area has been part of the Orange County/Chapel
Hill/Carrboro joint planning area since 1987; and
WHEREAS, the Board of County Commissioners finds the request consistent with its
comprehensive plan goals, objectives and policies, including but not limited to the land use
program;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of County Commissioners
hereby agrees to, by a formally adopted resolution, beyond what is required by N.C.G.S. 160A-
360, to an extension of the Town of Chapel Hill's extraterritorial powers under Article 19 of
Chapter 160A of the North Carolina General Statutes within the area identified in Appendix A.
This, the 1 day of December, 2014
A motion was made by Commissioner porosin, seconded by Commissioner Price for
the Board to:
Approve the extraterritorial jurisdiction request by the Town of Chapel Hill pursuant to the
Resolution in Attachment 5.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
Craig Benedict said the Board has voted on the resolution and now needs to vote on
the second part of the manager's recommendation to develop a long term plan.
A motion was made by Commissioner porosin seconded by Commissioner Rich to
authorize the County Manager to proceed with developing a long term plan for the area.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
Chair McKee asked staff to prepare some background materials for Commissioner
Burroughs on the Greene Tract.
b. Establishment of a New Full Time Position for the Oranqe County Sheriff's Office
— Leqal Advisor to the Sheriff
The Board considered approval of a new full time position, Legal Advisor to the Sheriff,
for the Orange County Sheriff's Office.
Brenda Bartholomew introduced this item.
Sheriff Blackwood congratulated everyone and said he was looking forward to working
with the Board of County Commissioners. He is submitted this request with one amendment to
the last sentence of paragraph 4, which states that the applicant must have a N.C. Driver's
License. He said this does not need to be in there, and he does not want to limit someone
who may be very thorough at the practice of law from being able to provide services to the
sheriff.
Commissioner Price thanked him for this amendment.
Commissioner porosin asked if it was typical for sheriff's offices in N.C. to have their
own attorney.
John Roberts said it is not uncommon for sheriff's departments to have their own legal
advisor.
A motion was made by Commissioner Jacobs, seconded by Commissioner Price for the
Board to establish the new full time position of Legal Advisor to the Sheriff (Grade 24)
(exempt).
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
Commissioner porosin asked if this position will serve as a County employee or at
pleasure of the Sheriff.
Brenda Bartholomew said the employee will serve at the pleasure of the Sheriff but will
be treated with equally as an Orange County employee.
c. Oranqe County/City of Durham Utility Service Aqreement Amendment
The Board considered amending an agreement to permit additional time (i.e. 2 years)
for water and/or sewer system construction initiation in the Eno Economic Development District
(EDD).
Craig Benedict reviewed the following background information and PowerPoint slides:
In late 2011 and January 2012 Orange County and the City of Durham developed and
approved an interlocal agreement: "Interlocal Agreement between Orange County and the City
of Durham for Construction and Operation of Water and Sewer Facilities in the Eno Economic
Development Zone of Orange County".
The purpose was to develop a more formal utility service area within Orange County's Eno
Economic Development District area and within the City of Durham's urban service area (also
known as their suburban tier). Under normal circumstances, utility extensions would be solely
the responsibility of developers. The agreement set forth parameters of water and sewer
service, feasibility, design, construction and operation, when Orange County provided utility
investments. Future Capital Investment Plan (CIP) projects were programmed for investment in
the area.
This agreement was a necessary preamble to beginning Article 46 economic development
infrastructure investment in the area. The County wanted to ensure that investments would be
linked to capital returns and operational responsibilities by the City of Durham once facilities
are installed in this jointly designated Orange County and Durham City economic development
area.
This area has been designated for this land use since the early 1980's.
A lengthy engineering feasibility analysis of what area could be served and at what cost was
conducted by a jointly approved outside firm (CDM Smith) starting in late 2012. The findings of
the study showed that the costs for a large EDD 796 acre district-wide solution were prohibitive
at this time due to high off-site (i.e. Durham area) infrastructure costs. This was noted in
County CIP work sessions in early 2014. The scope (Section 1) of the original study and
conclusions
(Section 8) are in Attachment 3.
The full report is available on the Orange County website
at: http://orangecountync.gov/planning/documents/ENOReportNovember2013.pdf
However, a scaled-back program (see Focus Area in Attachment 4) could focus on prime land
with interstate visibility with willing property owners who are presently marketing their land. This
new study and sewer project will take additional time to accomplish beyond the original
timeframe to begin construction of January 2015, but because of a smaller scale, will be easier
to accomplish once designed and agreed to by Orange County and the City of Durham. A
water extension may also be possible.
Therein, this request is to amend the agreement for a new design and construction timeline as
noted in Section 12 (shown in Attachment 2). Only 2 additional years is necessary to initiate
construction since the design would likely not include a sewer lift station which is time
consuming and be designed as a simpler sewer gravity extension of existing Durham facilities
near the County border. This 100± acre area is in the far northeast corner of the Eno EDD
between I-85 and US 70. This is also the most distant part of the Eno EDD from where
residents had concerns in 2012. Attachment 2 also contains a "clean" version of the language
(e.g., changes are not tracked).
Joint staff discussions have found this option a reasonable alternative.
Pending Board approval, the amendment will be transmitted for City of Durham approval since
Orange County is the requesting party.
Orange County/
City of Durham
Utility Service Agreement Amendment
BOCC Regular Meeting
December 1, 2014
Item 7-c
Purpose
To amend agreement to permit additional time (i.e. 2 years) for water and/or sewer system
construction initiation in the Eno Economic Development District (EDD)
Background
In late 2011 and January 2012 Orange County and the City of Durham-
• Interlocal Agreement
• "Interlocal Agreement between Orange County and the City of
Durham for Construction and Operation of Water and Sewer Facilities
in the Eno Economic Development Zone of Orange County"
• Formal utility service area; Orange County's Eno Economic Development District
area
• Similar land use since the early 1980's
Agreement
• Water and sewer service;
• Feasibility,
• Design, construction and
• Operation
• Development fees
Orange County Role
• Future CIP projects were programmed for investment in the area.
• Article 46 economic development infrastructure investment in the area.
Past Engineering Utility Findings
• Engineering feasibility analysis conducted by CDM Smith
• Examined a large EDD 796 acre district-wide solution
• High off-site (i.e. Durham area) infrastructure costs limited the funding of a master system
but outlined the likely service layout
• Full report
— http://oranqecountync.qov/planninq/documents/ENOReportNovember2013.pdf
Focus Area
• Examine 100 ± acre area is in the far northeast corner of the Eno EDD between 1-85 and
US 70 adjacent to the City of Durham
• A scaled-back utility program is suggested
(see Focus Area in Attachment 4 on page 186)
Request Tonight
• Amend the agreement for a new design and construction timeline
• 2 additional years
Recommendation:
The Manager recommends that the Board
• Approve the amendment
• Transmit to the City of Durham
Craig Benedict said the original estimate to serve the entire area was approximately
$5.8 million, which exceeds the County's financial wherewithal. He said this larger price tag
was due to the fact that a lift station would have to flow roughly 3 miles into Durham. He said
for this reason, the scaled back program and focus area are suggested.
Craig Benedict said staff has met with property owners in the identified northeastern
area to determine interest in marketing their property. He said the goal would be to focus on
interested parties to find out the most efficient way to extend sewer to this area. He reviewed
the map.
Craig Benedict said the requested 2 year extension would be adequate to address the
abridged aspect of the sewer master plan and would allow for implementation. He said in this
case Orange County is asking Durham to extend the agreement, so that is why this will be
transmitted to them.
Commissioner Pelissier said given the dramatic decrease in the proposed size of land
to be serviced, she wonders if there has been discussion with economic development staff on
whether it is worthwhile just to do 100 acres.
Craig Benedict said yes, there have been discussions. He said as potential properties
are offered to interested parties, all three development zones have been considered. He said
some areas designated in the Eno have uses on them now. He said it is harder to show an
underdeveloped property and suggest to a potential new business that the process may be to
remove the underdeveloped area and develop it anew. He said staff is taking a look at the
best area to focus on initially.
Craig Benedict said he has spoken to Steve Brantley about the potential for this area,
and the goal is to focus as much as possible on the most prime marketable areas.
Steve Brantley said he speaks daily with planning department about prospects. He
said staff has toured this economic development area, and these core 100 acres have the best
potential for future development. He said at least two existing businesses on the Orange
Durham County line are also expanding.
Steve Brantley referred to the housing and trailer areas in the western part of the Eno
EDD. He said he has not experienced industry coming in and forcing their way into that kind of
environment, as there are too many other sites across the state that would not require that kind
of relocation for residents.
Craig Benedict said as with the Hillsborough and Efland Mebane small area plan, staff
also conducted an Eno small area planning exercise in the mid-2000s. He said this was the
background planning that the Planning Board, the Commissioners and the residents were
involved with.
Commissioner porosin said the summary is that the focus will be on a smaller area for
infrastructure in an effort to lure economic development, and once this happens, this area will
be turned over to the City of Durham for ownership, operation and maintenance. He said the
City of Durham will and probably annex this area. He asked if this summary is correct.
Craig Benedict said this is a correct summary.
Commissioner Jacobs said of the three economic development districts, this Eno group
was by far the most frustrated. He asked if the past members of the work group are being kept
apprised of how things are changing.
Craig Benedict said after the study was received, a pause was taken in the process.
He said ideas are now being developed and staff will keep the board members involved and
updated.
RECOMMENDATION(S):
A motion was made by Commissioner Jacobs seconded by Commissioner Rich for the Board
to:
1. Approve the amendment; and
2. Authorize staff to transmit it to the City of Durham.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
8. Reports
NONE
9. County Manaqer's Report
NONE
10. County Attorney's Report
NONE
11. Appointments
a. Trianqle Transit Special Tax Board —Appointments
The Board considered making 2 appointments to the Triangle Transit Special Tax Board.
A motion was made by Commissioner Price, seconded by Commissioner Rich to
nominate Commissioner Pelissier to position #1 and Commissioner Jacobs to position #2 on
the Triangle Transit Special Tax Board.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
12. Board Comments
Commissioner Pelissier wanted to let everyone know that Triangle Transit Executive
Director David King has submitted his resignation and the recruitment process for a new
Executive Director has begun.
Commissioner porosin said he was at a meeting recently with residents who live in
mobile home parks in Orange County. He heard some distressing reports about their living
situations. He said he will be coming forward with some suggestions, and he thinks there are
some real opportunities to engage on these issues.
Commissioner Jacobs said the Board needs to remember that there are also
manufactured communities within the municipalities that are under financial stress and in need
of attention.
Chair McKee said he appreciated the opportunity to sit in the middle chair, and he will
do his best to represent the Board and the County.
13. Information Items
• November 18, 2014 BOCC Meeting Follow-up Actions List
• Tax Collector's Report - Numerical Analysis
• Tax Collector's Report - Measure of Enforced Collections
• Tax Assessor's Report - Releases and Refunds under $100
• Update on Solarization Programs for Orange County
• BOCC Chair Letter Regarding Petitions from November 18, 2014 Regular Board
Meeting
14. Closed Session
NONE
15. Adiournment
A motion was made by Commissioner Burroughs, seconded by Commissioner Rich to
adjourn the meeting at 9:26pm.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
Earl McKee, Chair
Donna Baker, Clerk to the Board