HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 06-02-2015 APPROVED 9/1/2015
MINUTES
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING
June 2, 2015
7:00 p.m.
The Orange County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, June
2, 2015 at 7:00 p.m. at the Whitted Building in Hillsborough, N.C.
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Chair McKee and Commissioners Mia Burroughs,
Mark Dorosin, Barry Jacobs, Bernadette Pelissier, Renee Price and Penny Rich
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS ABSENT:
COUNTY ATTORNEYS PRESENT: John Roberts
COUNTY STAFF PRESENT: County Manager Bonnie Hammersley and Clerk to the Board
Donna Baker (All other staff members will be identified appropriately below)
Chair McKee called the meeting to order at 7:02 p.m.
1. Additions or Changes to the Agenda
- PowerPoint Slides for item 4b -Voluntary and Enhanced Agricultural District Designation:
Multiple Farms - Bowers, Bortz, Thompson, Vanhook (2), Summers, and Teer
- 7a- Strikethrough Version of Interlocal Agreement for the Hollow Rock Nature Park
- 7b- Eubanks Road Solid Waste Convenience Center Construction- site map
- Green sheet - for June 4th Budget work session: School Districts' Current Expense Budget
Requests since FY 2006-07
- Flier announcing opening of Blackwood Farm Park on June 20.
Chair McKee said that the scheduled closed session had been canceled.
PUBLIC CHARGE
Chair McKee dispensed with the reading of the Public Charge.
2. Public Comments
a. Matters not on the Printed Agenda
b. Matters on the Printed Agenda
(These matters will be considered when the Board addresses that item on the agenda below.)
3. Announcements and Petitions by Board Members
Commissioner Dorosin said he had a request for information. He said he previously
petitioned the Board to continue the discussion regarding the bond referendum prior to the
summer break. He said the Chair told him that discussion would take place in September and
that it would not be too late to have this continued discussion at that time. He said he would
like clarification from the Attorney on the timeline. He asked if it would be too late both legally
and practically to continue the discussion in September.
John Roberts said legally it is not too late and practically he does not know.
Chair McKee said with the 2001 bond referendum, the Board did not move forward
until the spring prior to the fall election. He said he feels confident that the discussion can
continue in the fall, with plenty of time.
Commissioner Dorosin asked if there is significance to the vote passed by the Board
on April 21St
John Roberts said it a vote of intent and is not binding.
Commissioner Burroughs said she had no petitions.
Commissioner Rich announced that today is National Gun Violence Awareness Day.
Commissioner Pelissier said she had no petitions.
Commissioner Jacobs congratulated the Carrboro High School Women's soccer team
for winning the State championship.
Commissioner Jacobs said the abstract mentioned an old farmhouse on the Southern
Human Services Center, stating it was demolished. He said Orange County has a Recyclable
and Reuse Materials Ordinance and that the farmhouse was not demolished but
deconstructed. He petitioned the Board to add short reports into the meeting agenda on
different projects that Orange County had done over the years in place of him being the only
voice of history for the Board. He reviewed copies of some reports that he brought with him
tonight. He said all of these are background to many of the Board's current conversations.
Commissioner Price said the National Association of Counties (NACo) has a newer
initiative called "Stepping Up," which seeks to reduce the number of people with mental illness
in their jail. She said she would like to see Orange County adopt such a resolution and she
has a resolution template which she will share with staff.
Commissioner Pelissier asked if staff would modify the resolution template as
necessary to reflect what the County is currently doing in this area.
4. Proclamations/ Resolutions/ Special Presentations
a. Proclamation Supporting the Implementation of the Americans with Disabilities
Act (ADA)
The Board considered approving a proclamation affirming the County's commitment to
the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and authorized the Chair to sign the proclamation.
Human Relations Commission (HRC) Vice Chair, Gerald Ponder, introduced some
members from the HRC that are here to support his proclamation. He asked others in the
audience who were disable to be recognized. He displayed a Visitor's Bureau access guide to
those sites in Orange County that are ADA compliant and those which are not.
Mr. Ponder read the proclamation:
ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Proclamation Supporting the Implementation of the Americans with Disabilities Act
WHEREAS, the Orange County Human Relations Commission seeks to prevent and eliminate
bias and discrimination, and to promote the equal treatment of all individuals, including
persons with physical, mental and developmental disabilities; and
WHEREAS, for generations, persons with disabilities were wrongfully denied the ability to
participate in our society, contribute to our economy, or support their families based on their
disability status and therefore were forced to live as second-class citizens being denied those
most basic opportunities; and
WHEREAS, persons with disabilities who were not content to accept the world as it was,
marched, organized and testified, coupling quiet acts of persistence and perseverance with
vocal acts of advocacy, demanded a nation that would declare equality for its citizens with
disabilities; and
WHEREAS, advocates joined in the efforts to remove barriers that were depriving the nation of
the full talents, contributions and differing abilities of tens of millions of Americans with
disabilities; and
WHEREAS, on July 26, 1990, President George H.W. Bush signed into law the Americans
with Disabilities Act (ADA) which includes a clear and comprehensive mandate for the
elimination of discrimination against individuals with disabilities and the civil and equal rights of
people with disabilities; and
WHEREAS, the ADA has expanded opportunities for Americans with disabilities by removing
and reducing barriers, changing perceptions, and increasing full participation in community life;
and
WHEREAS, on July 26, 2015, this nation will celebrate the 25th anniversary of the signing of
the ADA, and we recognize that the full promise of the ADA will be reached only if we remain
committed to continue our efforts to fully implement the ADA;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, on this the 25th anniversary year of the ADA, that the
Board of County Commissioners of Orange County, North Carolina, celebrates the
contributions that Americans with disabilities and those who are differently-abled have made to
our Nation and to our County, and commits this County and all Departments therein to reach
compliance with the ADA through the adherence to the spirit of the law, by the removal or
reduction of physical barriers preventing full participation in community life, and by the
empowering of persons with disabilities through the provision of equitable treatment, inclusion
and opportunities.
THIS, THE 2nd DAY OF JUNE, 2015
A motion was made by Commissioner Jacobs, seconded by Commissioner Rich to
approve the proclamation and authorize the Chair to sign the proclamation.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
Commissioner Jacobs said Laurie Paolicelli was present tonight and she was
responsible for getting the access guide printed.
Commissioner Jacobs said Orange County needs to move more quickly in regards to
ADA compliance. He said he fully supported using all of the funds budgeted for these needs
at one time in order to make the facilities ADA compliant in one year.
Mr. Ponder thanked the Board for passing this resolution and said he and his peers
would be more than happy to help in improving access in Orange County.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
Pam Dickens said she is here to represent the Disabilities Council. She said she
applauds Orange County for this resolution recognizing that the County has done a great deal
in 25 years, towards ADA compliance. She added that there is much more yet to be done to
improve access issues and she and her council are here to assist in any way.
Ellen Perry thanked the Board for this resolution and said she helped the Visitor's
Bureau in producing the access guide. She said she supports Commissioner Jacobs'
suggestion to take care of the access issues in one year. She invited them to a birthday on
July 21 st for ADA in Orange County.
Commissioner Price said she would like a group of citizens with disabilities to go to all
the County buildings to insure that the County is aware of all needs to be addressed regarding
ADA.
b. Voluntary and Enhanced Agricultural District Designation: Multiple Farms -
Bowers, Bortz, Thompson, Vanhook (2), Summers, and Teer
The Board considered approving applications for seven (7) farm properties totaling 971
acres (VAD) and 376 acres (EVAD) (rounded acreage) and designate them as Voluntary or
Enhanced Voluntary Agricultural District farms within the Cedar Grove, Caldwell, Cane
Creek/Buckhorn, 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 60 farms, totaling 7,162 acres in the
VAD and 1,329 acres in the EVAD for a total of 8,491 acres (rounded) in the program.
Gail Hughes introduced Renee McPherson as the new chair of the Agricultural
Preservation Board.
Gail Hughes made the following PowerPoint presentation:
Orange County Voluntary and Enhanced Voluntary Agricultural District Program
Orange County Board of Commissioners Meeting
June 2, 2015
Orange County VAD/EVAD Program
(Orange County Voluntary Farmland Protection 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)
Map
Robert & Cheri Bowers
Whitted Bowers Farm
Cedar Grove Agricultural District
Farm includes fruit/vegetables such as strawberries, tomatoes, blueberries, and managed
woodland.
EVAD = 51.24 acres
Aerial Map
Elise Bortz
Elysian Fields Farm
Cedar Grove Agricultural District
Farm includes mixed vegetable production, tomatoes, and managed woodland.
EVAD = 43.65 acres
Aerial Map
James C. & Betty Thompson
Andrew/Susan Thompson
Thoms Creek Farm
New Hope and Cane Creek/Buckhorn Agricultural District
Farm includes beef cattle, pasture and hay crops, and managed woodland.
VAD = 592.55 acres
Aerial Maps
Willie & Hattie Vanhook
Cedar Grove Agriculture District
Farm includes beef cattle, pasture, hay crops, and managed woodland.
EVAD= 84.01 acres
Aerial Map
Richal & Savannah Vanhook
Caldwell Agricultural District
Farm includes beef cattle, pasture, hay crops and managed woodland.
EVAD= 76.32 acres
Aerial Map
Lewis & Charlene Summers
Goat Hill Farm
Cedar Grove Agricultural District
Farm includes corn, small grain, hay crops and managed woodland/forestry.
EVAD=121 acres
Aerial Map
Mike Teer, Sarah Teer
Thomas & Evelyn Teer
Teer Farms
Cane Creek/Buckhorn & White Cross Agricultural District
Farm includes dairy cattle operation, pasture, corn, soybeans, small grain, hay crops and
managed woodland/forestry.
VAD= 379.15 acres
Aerial Maps
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 seven (7) farms into the
Voluntary Agricultural Program. Increase of: (rounded acreage)
0 971 acres in the VAD
0 376 acres in the EVAD.
• If approved, total of acres in both programs:
VAD = 7162 acres
EVAD = 1329 acres
• Total Acres in Orange County Voluntary Agricultural Program = 8491 acres
Overview Map
June 2015
• VAD = 7162 acres
• EVAD = 1329 acres
Total Acres = 8491*
■ Red indicates farm location of new VAD/EVAD applicants
* rounded acres
Commissioner Rich thanked all of these residents and said she is encouraged by the
amount of acreage in the program.
Commissioner Jacobs said it is always good to see farms participate in this program,
maintaining their commitment to agriculture in Orange County.
A motion was made by Commissioner Pelissier seconded by Commissioner Price for
the Board to certify the seven (7) farm properties noted above totaling 971 acres (VAD) and
376 acres (EVAD) (rounded acreage) as denoted in the attached documentation as qualifying
farmland, and designate them as Voluntary or Enhanced Voluntary Agricultural District farms
within the Cedar Grove, Caldwell, Cane Creek/Buckhorn, 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 60 farms, totaling 7,162 acres in the VAD and 1,329 acres in the EVAD for a total of
8,491 acres (rounded) in the program.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
5. Public Hearings - NONE
6. Consent Agenda
• Removal of Any Items from Consent Agenda
Commissioner Price removed item 6-q, Time Warner Wireless at Select County
Facilities
• Approval of Remaining Consent Agenda
A motion was made by Commissioner Jacobs, seconded by Commissioner Rich to
approve the remaining items on the consent agenda.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
• Discussion and Approval of the Items Removed from the Consent Agenda
Item 6-q —Time Warner Wireless at Select County Facilities
Commissioner Price asked if, once the antennas are up, the service will be free.
Jim Northup, Orange County Chief Information Officer, said under this agreement Time
Warner will install Wi-Fi access points in ten buildings and anyone that is in their consortium of
cable companies will have free access. He said anyone that is not a member will get an hour
of free internet service daily.
Commissioner Price asked if Efland Cheeks Community Center would be one of the 10
buildings to receive an access point.
Jim Northrup said this building already has internet access.
Commissioner Rich asked if this is a three year contract with Time Warner.
Jim Northup said yes.
Commissioner Rich asked if upgrades are available would Time Warner upgrade their
services during the three years.
Jim Northup said this is the Time Warner model to get Wi-Fi into areas to increase their
market and he assumed they would upgrade as needed over the 3 years.
John Roberts said that Orange County is authorized by statute to work with Time
Warner to expand services, if needed, at the County's expense.
Commissioner Rich said she wants to insure the County is not locking itself into
something that is substandard in a year.
Jim Northup said the current technology that Time Warner is using will not be
substandard in the next eighteen months to two years.
John Roberts said if Time Warner is not upgrading as they should be then Orange
County can terminate the contract.
Commissioner Jacobs said Time Warner is going away as an entity and the County
may well be dealing with different people going forward.
Commissioner Rich said this whole model is going to change sooner rather than later,
with fast moving technology.
A motion was made by Commissioner Price, seconded by Commissioner Jacobs to
approve expanding wireless Internet services to Orange County residents and visitors with the
installation of Time Warner Cable Enterprises (TWC) wireless access points at ten (10) County
facilities and authorized the Manager to execute the contract with TWC and any amendments
subject final review by the County Attorney.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
a. Minutes
The Board approved the minutes for the April 14, 2015, BOCC Joint Meeting with the Board of
Health; the April 14, 2015 BOCC Work Session; and the April 21, 2015, BOCC Regular
Meeting 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 eight (8) taxpayers with a total of nine (9) bills that will result in a
reduction of revenue in the amount of$2,705.94 to Orange County, the towns, and school and
fire districts. Financial impact year to date for FY 2014-2015 is $41,663.01.
c. Appointment of Four(4) Deputy Tax Collectors
The Board reappointed Valerie Curry, Bernice Gwynn, Linda Jaubert, and Bobbie Underwood
as Orange County Deputy Tax Collectors for two-year terms effective July 1, 2015.
d. Fiscal Year 2014-15 Budget Amendment#9
The Board approved budget and grant project ordinance amendments for fiscal year 2014-15
for Department on Aging; Library Services; County Manager's Office; Health Department;
Animal Services Department; and Visitors Bureau Fund.
e. Professional Services Agreement -Website Consulting, Content Management
Solutions and Customer Relations Management with Simpleview, LLC
The Board approved a professional services agreement with Simpleview, a national Visitors
Bureau website developer for the development of a new state-of-the-art travel website that will
allow the Orange County Visitors Bureau to bundle multiple on-line services being managed by
several vendors into a comprehensive website that maximizes spending by visitors, and
authorized the Manager to sign the agreement and any future amendments.
f. Request for Road Addition to the State Maintained Secondary Road System (Ben
Wilson Road Extension — SR 1140), and Secondary Road Abandonment (Ben Wilson
Road, SR 1140, Partial)
The Board made a recommendation to the North Carolina Department of Transportation
(NCDOT) and the North Carolina Board of Transportation (NC BOT) on a petition to add Ben
Wilson Road Extension — SR 1140 (partial) and approved a resolution, which is incorporated
by reference, requesting the abandonment of Ben Wilson Road — SR 1140 (partial).
g. Comprehensive Plan and Unified Development Ordinance Amendment Outline and
Schedule — Public Hearing Process Revisions
The Board approved process components and schedule for an upcoming government-initiated
amendment to the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO), and directed the staff to proceed
accordingly.
h. County Attorney and Clerk to the Board Employment Agreement Amendments
The Board approved the Employment Agreements governing the terms, and conditions of the
County Attorney's and Clerk to the Board's employment.
L Resolution to Endorse Orange County's Transportation Project Lists for the
Burlington-Graham and Durham-Chapel Hill-Carrboro Metropolitan Planning
Organizations and the Triangle Area Rural Planning Organization
The Board approved a resolution, which is incorporated by reference, endorsing transportation
projects within the Burlington-Graham Metropolitan Planning Organization (BGMPO), Durham-
Chapel Hill-Carrboro (DCHC) MPO and the Triangle Area Rural Planning Organization
(TARPO) planning areas for State scoring and ultimate consideration of inclusion in the 2018-
2027 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP).
j. Approval to Extend the Central Orange Fire Insurance District Boundary from the Cane
Creek Fire Insurance District
The Board approved the updated Central Orange Fire Insurance District map which has been
expanded to include properties from the Cane Creek Fire District that are not currently in the
rated insurance district for insurance purposes only.
k. Approval to Extend the Cedar Grove Fire Insurance District Boundary
The Board approved the updated Cedar Grove Insurance District map which has been
expanded to include properties from the Efland Fire District that are not currently in the rated
insurance district for insurance purposes only.
I. Approval to Extend the Cane Creek Fire Insurance District Boundary
The Board approved the updated Cane Creek Insurance District map which has been
expanded to include properties from the Efland Fire District that are not currently in the rated
insurance district for insurance purposes only.
m. Approval to Extend the Central Orange Fire Insurance District Boundary from the
West Orange Fire Insurance District
The Board approved the updated Central Orange Insurance District map which has been
expanded to include properties from the Efland Fire District that are not currently in the rated
insurance district for insurance purposes only.
n. Revisions to Orange County Voluntary Farmland Protection Program Ordinance
(Code of Ordinances Chapter 48)
The Board approved a resolution to make minor technical adjustments to the wording of the
Orange County Voluntary Farmland Protection Program Ordinance (Chapter 48, Orange
County Code of Ordinances) to eliminate the requirement that a farm must participate in the
present-use program to qualify for the County's Voluntary Agricultural District (VAD) Program,
a requirement that was removed from the program's enabling legislation by the North Carolina
General Assembly in 2011.
o. Plat Revision for the Hollow Rock Nature Park
The Board authorized the Chair to sign an Amendment to the Declaration of Development
Restrictions and for staff to record a revised plat for the planned Hollow Rock Nature Park to
construct a small parking area for the proposed park.
p. FY 2015-16 Home and Community Care Block Grant for Older Adults Funding Plan
The Board approved the recommended Home and Community Care Block Grant (HCCBG) for
Older Adults Funding Plan for FY 2015-16 in the amount of$553,104 and authorized the Chair
to sign the grant documents.
7. Regular Agenda
a. Interlocal Agreement for the Hollow Rock Nature Park
The Board considered approving an interlocal agreement for the development and
operation of the planned Hollow Rock Nature Park located along New Hope Creek and
authorizing the Chair to sign the agreement.
BACKGROUND:
In 1992 Orange County, Chapel Hill, Durham County and the City of Durham adopted
the New Hope Creek Corridor Master Plan, which called for preservation of lands along the
New Hope Creek corridor from central Orange County to Jordan Lake. The master plan
envisioned a public trail network with a number of"access areas" at strategic locations,
including the "Hollow Rock Access Area" at the intersection of Erwin Road and Pickett Road.
The planned Hollow Rock Access Area is a 75-acre site comprised of multiple land parcels
owned separately by Orange County, Durham County, and the Town of Chapel Hill. The site
straddles the Orange-Durham county line and New Hope Creek forms the western boundary.
Portions of the site are protected with conservation easements held by the State of North
Carolina. The site was acquired in a series of separate land transactions from 2001-2014.
The Triangle Land Conservancy (TLC) purchased the first two acres in 2002, and then
advocated for further acquisitions. Orange County purchased four parcels from 2005-07 with
the help of state grants. A 43-acre tract was acquired by Durham and Orange counties and
the Town of Chapel Hill in 2008 with funding assistance from the City of Durham, the State,
and the Erwin Area Neighborhood Group. Orange County acquired the two-acre TLC property
in May 2014.
In 2006 the four local governments signed an interlocal agreement for the acquisition
and planning of the planned Hollow Rock Access Area, and also established a Hollow Rock
Master Plan Committee, co-chaired by Commissioner Barry Jacobs and including then-
Commissioner Alice Gordon. The master plan was adopted by each of the four local
government partners in 2009-10. Orange County adopted the plan on April 20, 2010.
Construction of the initial public amenities for the Hollow Rock site will occur in the latter
half of 2015 with help from a $200,000 NC Recreational Trails Program grant awarded to
Durham County in collaboration with Orange County. Orange County's share of this Phase 1 a
construction is $50,000 from the adopted 2014-19 Capital Investment Plan (CIP). The CIP
identifies an additional $120,500 from Orange County for Phase 1 b construction in 2016-17. A
phasing plan for development of the site is provided as Attachment 4.
The Department of Environment, Agriculture, Parks and Recreation (DEAPR) worked
closely with the Durham County staff to develop a draft interlocal agreement for the
development and operation of the Hollow Rock portion of the larger New Hope Preserve. The
agreement describes the property ownership, existing encumbrances (conservation
easements), and allowed uses consistent with the adopted master plan. The agreement also
addresses how the parties would share in the cost of future improvements, the operation and
maintenance of the site, and development of a joint management plan.
An initial draft agreement was presented to the Board on March 3, and the Board
referred the draft agreement to the Durham-Chapel Hill-Orange County Work Group
(DCHOWG) for consideration on March 11. Since then DEAPR has worked closely with
Durham County staff to incorporate recommended edits from the DCHOWG as well as
separate technical edits received from Town of Chapel Hill, Durham County, and the Orange
County Attorney.
The only non-technical issue of note is that the consensus of the DCHOWG was to
change the name of this site from the "Hollow Rock Access Area", a placeholder name from
the 1992 New Hope Creek Master Plan, to the "Hollow Rock Nature Park". The initial draft
agreement that the Board received on March 3 suggested the name change to "Hollow Rock
Park and Natural Area," but many reviewers of the document commented that name was too
long and cumbersome.
The revised interlocal agreement is ready to be reconsidered by the Board. The
agreement was approved by the Town of Chapel Hill on May 27 and is scheduled to be
considered for approval by Durham County on June 8.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
There is no financial impact associated with consideration of the draft interlocal
agreement; however, the agreement does specify options for how the local governments
would share in the costs of future improvements to the site, as well as for the operation and
maintenance of the site. Decisions for actual costs associated with the construction, operation
and maintenance of the Hollow Rock Nature Park will be made in separate actions by the
Board.
David Stancil made the following Power Point presentation:
Hollow Rock Nature Park
New Hope Preserve
June 2, 2015
Hollow Rock Access Overview (map)
Hollow Rock Access Area
New Hope Preserve
• 75 Acres
• Erwin & Pickett roads
• Orange/Durham Counties
Hollow Rock Nature Park Ownership (map)
Hollow Rock Access Area
New Hope Preserve
• 2006 Interlocal Agreement (4 jurisdictions)
• Master Plan Advisory Committee
0 12 meetings (2007 —2009)
o Public Outreach and Input
o Findings and Recommendations
Rich Shaw continued the presentation:
• Master Plan adopted 2009-10 (4 jurisdictions)
Proposed Master Plan (map)
Hollow Rock Access Area
New Hope Preserve
• NC Recreational Trails Grant = $200,000
• Durham + Orange match = $50,000
4 Phase la construction (2015)
Erwin Rd entrance, parking, trails, bridges, signage
4 Phase 1 b construction (2016-17)
4 Restroom, education shelter, ADA trail, picnic tables, ...
• Interlocal Agreement
Interlocal Agreement for Development and Operation
I. Background
II. General information
Site Name
➢ Hollow Rock Access Area (original)
➢ Hollow Rock Park and Natural Area (initial draft)
➢ Hollow Rock Nature Park(proposed)
Master Plan
Management Plan (within 2 years)
Names on Facilities
Ownership
III. Site Management
Allowed uses
Policies and regulations
(OC & DC to develop jointly)
IV. Site Improvements and Amenities
Consistency with master plan
Costs of Phase I improvements (50-50 OC/DC)
Costs of future improvements (TBD)
Grant funds
V. Site Operations
Operations and management (Orange County and Durham County)
Operations and maintenance (Pickett Rd split)
Insurance
Security and public safety
VI. General Provisions
Relationship of the Parties
Appointment of Personnel
Governing Law
Term (3 years; 5-yr extensions)
Amendments
Entire agreement
Headings
Communications
Signatures:
Orange County, Durham County, Town of Chapel Hill
Status:
• D-CH-O Work Group (March 11)
• Town of Chapel Hill approval (May 27)
• Orange County consideration (June 2)
• Durham County consideration (June 8)
• Anticipated park opening: Early 2016
Commissioner Price referred to page 7 in the interlocal agreement regarding fire and
emergency services and she asked if these departments should sign off on this agreement.
David Stancil said fortunately Orange County and Durham County have been through
this process before with Little River Park with reciprocal agreements. He said the appropriate
parties have been contacted and are a part of the current conversation.
Commissioner Price referred to Item III, Site Management, on page 3. She asked if the
word "race" could be removed and replaced with "ethnicity and/or national origin."
Chair McKee asked if Chapel Hill had already approved the agreement.
Rich Shaw said yes but with the provision that if the agreement sustained any
substantive edits, it would return to the Town for re-approval.
John Roberts said that as Durham County has yet to approve the agreement he
suggested Orange add a similar provision as the Town of Chapel Hill.
Chair McKee asked if Commissioner Price would be willing to hold her changes until a
motion was presented.
Commissioner Price agreed.
Commissioner Dorosin asked for further clarification regarding the "future site of Hollow
Rock Store" which was mentioned in the phasing plan.
Rich Shaw said there is a group called the Friends of Hollow Rock Store that has
worked with the owner of the past store, which was located elsewhere. He said this group
would like to relocate the store to this property as a site amenity and an entrance feature. He
said it is unknown whether the building would be open or closed to the public but that it does
have historical value. He said the current plan is to clear the footprint for the building should it
be located there.
Commissioner Jacobs said there are three factors that will not appear in the documents
which led to this park happening. He said one is Orange County used to have a strong and
active relationship with Duke, and Duke would come to Orange County first when property was
available for purchase. He said the second factor is an example of a neighborhood that saw
possible development coming in and rallied the local governments to propose an alternative
vision for the land that would preserve the properties more naturally. He added, thirdly, that
this process went smoothly because the County had been through the same situation with
Durham County regarding Little River Regional Park. He said there was a track record of
success.
Commissioner Price restated her request regarding the word "race," for Item III: Site
Management.
Commissioner Dorosin said "national origin" is already included in the end of the
paragraph. He said he does not support the removal of the word "race." He said adding
ethnicity would be acceptable but that race should remain due to the ongoing prevalence of
race discrimination.
Commissioner Price said to add "ethnicity" and leave in "race".
A motion was made by Commissioner Rich, seconded by Commissioner Pelissier for
the Board to approve the interlocal agreement for the development and operation of the
planned Hollow Rock Nature Park, to add the word "ethnicity" to Item III (Site Management), to
authorize the Chair to sign the agreement, and to authorize staff to make any non-substantive
changes that may be necessary prior to execution.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
b. Eubanks Road Solid Waste Convenience Center Construction
The Board considered: 1) Authorizing staff to move forward with bid document
preparation and bidding of the Eubanks Road Convenience Center site
expansion/improvement project in order that work can be initiated at the earliest possible time
during the summer and fall months of 2015; 2) Authorizing the Manager to award the bid and,
upon County Attorney review, execute the construction contract for the Solid Waste
Convenience Center expansion/improvements during the summer break in an amount not to
exceed the project budget; and 3) Authorizing the Manager to approve project change orders
that do not in total exceed the project budget.
Gayle Wilson, Orange County Solid Waste Director, said at a recent Solid Waste
Advisory Board (SWAB) meeting a more accurate title was suggested for this project:
Eubanks Road Convenience Center, Scale Operations and Landfill Entranceway
Improvements.
Gayle Wilson said this evening he would: brief the Board on the project; review the
planned improvements; review the project evolution; provide an overview of the estimated
schedule; explain the proposed temporary center that will function during construction; make
comments regarding some perceived duplication of services; answer questions; and hoped to
gain authorization from the Board for the Manager to award the construction bid and sign the
contract during summer break.
Gayle Wilson referred to the site plan and said he would walk the Board through the
project. He pointed out that the new location entrance will also serve as the exit. He said
there will be 3 Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) compactors along with cardboard and mixed
recyclables compactors. He said there will be dual level containers. He said the lower level of
the Center will have tire, clean metal, clean wood, yard waste, bulky item, and rigid plastics
collection.
Gayle Wilson said the site will be much safer including some ADA improvements such
as a paved service and lower loading heights. He said this site will operate more efficiently,
have reduced odors and be a cleaner site with better working conditions for staff. He said
there is a but in front of the central MSW compactor for staff. He said this but is enclosed with
heating and air conditioning while the other compactors have canopies over them. He said
there is also a bathroom and running water in the scale house which no other center has
except Walnut Grove. He said if someone is going to the landfill then one would proceed
straight in through the property into the landfill area. He said the new scales and scale house
would be located here. He said there is a return road if vehicles need to weigh back out to
calculate their fee. He said there is also a sanitation vehicle parking area on the perimeter of
the property. He said the newly proposed services are: textiles, plastic film, food waste,
cooking oil, an expanded salvage shed and a hazardous waste service.
Gayle Wilson said this center was originally planned to mirror the one at Walnut Grove
at an anticipated cost of$1.4 million. He said the manager proposed that the project be
revised to include the entire Eubanks Waste Facility Entrance Way and Scale Operations,
moving to the north of Eubanks road, and to include the incorporation of a hazardous waste
facility. He said these changes moved the cost to approximately $2.5 million. He said the
reason to make these additional changes was to create a safer environment and to replace the
old scales that were at their life end. He said the changes also moved operations further away
from the Rogers Road area by a hundred plus feet. He said a few additional
recommendations have been made and the current budget is now $3.17 million which is being
proposed in the Capital Investment Plan (CIP).
Gayle Wilson reviewed the project schedule. He said he would like to go out to bid on
June 19, 2015, and open the bids on July 21, 2015. He said he hoped to have a contract
executed by August 11, 2015, and proceed a week later. He plans to open a temporary center
on August 20, 2015, in conjunction with the mobilization of the Contractor.
Gayle Wilson said there will be a temporary convenience center with reduced services
established for the duration of the project. He said this temporary location is proposed at the
Future Millhouse Road Park property. He said it will include placement of a stone base, a
temporary chain link fence and various signage (See Attachment 1).
Gayle Wilson said the temporary site planning has been coordinated with the
Department of Environment, Agriculture, Parks and Recreation (DEAPR). It would include
waste and bulky item receptacles, yard waste and electronics recycling only. Other services
would be temporarily suspended during the period of construction. Recyclables can be
delivered to Cedar Falls Park 24-hour drop-off site or any other drop-off or convenience center.
Gayle Wilson said there were some questions about duplication of services. He said
the curbside recycling program is being expanded and there is some confusion regarding the
need for recycling services at the larger Centers. He said the impact of duplicating services
was considered. He said the new Eubanks Road Center has two compactors that handle
cardboard and mixed recyclables. He said the area dedicated to these materials is quite small
and therefore is not a major duplication of the curbside service.
Gayle Wilson said since there is a desire to complete the project in a timely manner it is
being proposed that the Manager award the bid and sign the contract during the summer
months provided it is within the budget.
Commissioner Jacobs asked if there was a defined role for the project consultant.
Gayle Wilson said he did the preliminary layout of the Center and all of the detailed
design work.
Commissioner Jacobs asked if this was the same consultant used for the transfer
station.
Gayle Wilson said no but that it was the same consultant used for Walnut Grove. He
said the Consultant used to work with the firm that handled the Transfer Station but does no
longer.
Commissioner Jacobs said the Town of Chapel Hill brought up the question of value
received for the money being invested at this site and he said Mayor Kleinschmidt said this site
is a consolidation of services without creating new services. He said it will be important to
educate the public regarding the variety of services that will be co-housed in this one location.
Commissioner Jacobs asked if there will be physical access to the compactors from
vehicles. He said if there will not be physical access then there should be a plan to address
the need of help for some residents with particularly heavy loads.
Bonnie Hammersley said she and Gayle Wilson have not yet had this discussion but
will be looking at this going forward. She said it is a customer service issue that must be
addressed.
Gayle Wilson said one possible option would be to use the bulky items compactor
where one can drive up closer to the hopper. He said the lower loading heights will be helpful
to both the public and the employees.
Commissioner Rich said she and Commissioner Jacobs had discussed the title of the
facility and concluded that it is much more than a convenience center and the name should
reflect this.
Commissioner Rich asked if Gayle Wilson could itemize the services currently available
to Cedar Falls.
Gayle Wilson said there is cardboard and mixed recyclables.
Commissioner Rich asked if the current capacity of bins would be sufficient and simply
emptied more often during construction or if additional bins will be necessary.
Gayle Wilson said the site has limited space and likely the site will be serviced more
often as it will be more heavily used. He said there will be site plans posted at the current
Eubanks site to forewarn and educate the public.
Commissioner Rich said to also encourage employees to talk to residents and hand out
flyers about the upcoming changes/closures/options.
Commissioner Price asked if there is anything located to the west of the site.
Gayle Wilson said there are yard waste and mulching area, white goods, mattress and
cardboard recycling and the C and D landfill.
Commissioner Price asked if the scales are moved to this site will all activity move away
from the old landfill site.
Gayle Wilson said it would take all public access away from the old landfill area. He
added that a building will remain there, where electronics are collected and dismantled.
Commissioner Price asked if there will be an increase in service traffic.
Gayle Wilson said he does not anticipate an increase in the service trucks.
Commissioner Price said the entrance and exit being combined made her nervous and
asked if there is another exit in case of emergency.
Gayle Wilson said yes. He said the old entrance along with the old exit are still
present. He said in general these exits will remain closed but could be opened relatively
quickly. He said there is little reason for fire to break out at this site but there will be a fire
hydrant on site.
Commissioner Jacobs asked if the operations on the south side of the road are all
moving to the north side, where will mattress drop off be located.
Gayle Wilson said mattress drop off is currently on the north side and will remain in its
exact location.
Commissioner Jacobs said the proposed location for the temporary site is close to the
Rogers Road community. He asked if there has been any outreach done in that community
about the temporary site. He said, if not, that this should be done soon and with clearly
identified boundaries.
Gayle Wilson said outreach has not yet been done as approval from the Board of
County Commissioners for the temporary site has yet to be given. He said a lot of residents
from the Rogers Road area use the convenience center and he will make sure signage and
information is up soon.
Commissioner Jacobs said to make sure this is done soon to avoid community unrest.
Gayle Wilson said this would be pursued promptly.
Commissioner Dorosin said residents in this area are concerned that this plan is simply
the first step towards a transfer station being located at this site. He said if there are long-term
plans for this site to be back in consideration for a transfer station, the Board should be talking
about this now.
Gayle Wilson said he does not make transfer station plans independent of the Board
and thus he is not spending any time on a transfer station at this site, or any other site.
Commissioner Dorosin asked if the existing scales need to be replaced even if they
were not being moved to the north side of the road.
Gayle Wilson said yes.
Commissioner Dorosin said Commissioner Jacobs made the point that services are
being consolidated and not expanded but he is not sure if that is true. He said if there are new
services being provided the County must be clear about this up front. He said this project
going from $1.5 to $3.2 million sounds "high". He said the plan should be carefully reviewed to
see if there is anything that could be scaled back without compromising services.
Gayle Wilson said the household waste could remain on the south side road and be re-
located at a future time but it will never cost less than it will as a part of a larger project. He
said additionally the parking area for the sanitation trucks could be delayed.
Commissioner Pelissier asked if improving the Solid Waste Convenience Center
improves the flow and increases efficiency as the population grows.
Gayle Wilson said this site would have safer access and it could handle more traffic
than the existing facility. He said the service trucks will be separated from the public for the
most part and that alone will greatly improve flow and safety.
Commissioner Pelissier asked if this has been analyzed.
Gayle Wilson said traffic flow was a major concern during the design process and he
feels it has been addressed adequately.
Commissioner Jacobs said these centers were envisioned as a regional convenience
center and as such, does have more services than a smaller site. He said Jeff Thompson was
once hired as a value engineer. He suggested that perhaps a value engineer could look at this
site and recommend the best design, etc.
Gayle Wilson said lessons learned from the Walnut Grove project are proving very
helpful and informative.
Chair McKee said he is seeing a bottleneck at the recycling and white paper processing
areas. He asked if the turn radius for this area is known.
Gayle Wilson said he does not know the exact radius at this time but he said it is
important as the trucks have to be able to turn. He said it would be rare for all three
compactors to operate at the same time.
Eric Schopler, Engineer, said the turning radius has been tested successfully with pick-
up trucks and trailers. He said this is the best layout possible related to traffic flow with the
smaller area available.
Chair McKee asked if the proposed new scales would utilize the current in ground part
of the scales, by moving it to the north side of the road.
Gayle Wilson said a new in-ground scale is being pursued. He said all the components
of the current scales are in need of replacement and would simply be left where it is.
Chair McKee asked if above ground scale pads had been priced.
Eric Schopler said this scale is typical of solid waste scales used everywhere and that
the scales are purchased after a bidding process, to insure the lowest cost.
Chair McKee asked if this scale is large enough to accommodate tractor trailers.
Eric Schopler said yes.
Chair McKee asked if the mattress shed could be located on this part of the property.
Gayle Wilson said currently 80-90 percent of mattresses that come into the site are
recycled but the mattresses must be dry. He said there is currently a fee charged for
mattresses and box springs, paying for them to be recycled or disposed of. He said
mattresses could be accepted at the convenience centers but those sites are not equipped to
handle money, thus the cost for recycling or disposing of the mattresses would have to be
absorbed by the County. He said additional staff would be necessary to handle the
mattresses.
Chair McKee asked if the temporary site will be restored to its original condition once it
is no longer needed.
Gayle Wilson said DEAPR staff would like for the stone to remain while the chain link
fence is removed.
Chair McKee said that would be fine as long as the lot does not have the appearance
of being abandoned.
Commissioner Jacobs asked the Manager if it would help to do some value engineering
and asked if it would fit into the time frame.
Bonnie Hammersley said value engineering could be completed within this time frame,
and staff would look into it. She said this time can also be used to inform the neighborhood of
the upcoming changes.
Commissioner Dorosin said there would be no report given to the Board, regarding the
value engineering, prior to a vote being taken.
Commissioner Jacobs said the Board could direct the Manager to come back in
September with the total costs of the project.
Commissioner Dorosin said bids would be out prior to September.
Bonnie Hammersley said the value engineering would be completed prior to the bidding
process. She said if the value engineer returns information that sparks concerns, she would
inform the Board.
Commissioner Jacobs said he would trust the Manager on this.
Commissioner Price said she would like to see an itemized list of costs for the big ticket
items for this project in order to better understand why the project is so expensive.
Commissioner Burroughs said she felt comfortable with this proposed plan, trusting the
Manager to stop the process if there is cause for concern.
Commissioner Dorosin asked the Manager if she going to do the value engineering in-
house.
Bonnie Hammersley said she cannot answer that yet but will talk to staff tomorrow to
pursue options.
Commissioner Dorosin said this type of value engineering would be good to have for
this project and other projects going forward. He suggested finding a way to do this with in-
house staff.
A motion was made by Commissioner Jacobs, seconded by Commissioner Price for the
Board to:
1) Authorize staff to move forward with bid document preparation and bidding of the Eubanks
Road Convenience Center site expansion/improvement project in order that work can be
initiated at the earliest possible time during the summer and fall months of 2015;
2) Require the manager to initiate a value engineering review of the project prior to bidding this
work out, and halt the project and report back to the Board should significant concerns arise as
to the cost, design, or other significant aspects of the project;
3) Authorize the Manager to award the bid and, upon County Attorney review, execute the
construction contract for the Solid Waste Convenience Center expansion/improvements during
the summer break in an amount not to exceed the project budget; and
4) Authorize the Manager to approve project change orders that do not in total exceed the
project budget.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
8. Reports
a. Final Consultant Report Regarding Future Development of Southern Orange
County Government Services Campus
The Board considered receiving and discussing the report recommending development
concepts and phasing for future potential facilities on the County's Southern Government
Services Campus on Homestead Road in Chapel Hill, pursuant to its governing Special Use
Permit that has been approved by the Town of Chapel, recognizing that the Manager and staff
plan to use these recommendations in future Capital Investment Plan development.
Jeff Thompson, Director Asset Management Services, said Orange County is working
with Clarion Associates on this implementation plan.
Roger Waldon, Clarion Associates, said he is very excited about the prospects for this
site, as it is an enormous opportunity for the County. He presented the following PowerPoint
slides:
Southern Orange County Government Services Campus:
Implementation Report
June 2, 2015
Board of County Commissioners
Area Map
Background: Regulatory History of Site
• 1992: County Purchased Site
o Consolidation of human services in southern Orange County
• 1994: Special Use Permit (SUP) Approved by Chapel Hill
o Orange County Southern Human Services Center
• 1995: SUP Modification Approved by Chapel Hill
o Project Homestart facility
• 2005: SUP Modification Approved by Chapel Hill
o Robert and Pearl Seymour Senior Center
• 2007: County Adoption of Concept Plan
• For Internal Staff Working Purposes
• Several assessments: cultural, archaeological, environmental
Recent Progress
• BOCC Approval of Master Plan
• Town of Chapel Hill Approval of SUP
• Review of Documents, Meetings
• Preliminary Development Concepts
• Identifying Options for Sequencing
• Tonight: Implementation Report
The Site Today (map)
Review of Master Plan (map)
Key Ideas for Implementation
• Options and Flexibility
• Draw on Space Needs Study
• Co-location opportunities
• IT/ Emergency Management
• Transit Hub
• Resource Center
• Partnerships
• "Health Campus"
Development Opportunities (graphic)
Expansion of Southern Human Services Building
Development Opportunities (graphic)
Expansion of Seymour Center
Development Opportunities (graphic)
Site for Veterans' Memorial
Approach to Development: 3 Phases (graphic)
Phase 1
Mike Hammersley, from Corley Redfoot Architects, reviewed the following information from the
Implementation Report, including several graphics:
The first phase of implementation should include a 15,000 square foot expansion of the
Southern Human Services building. This would be an extension to the rear of the existing
building, with 7,500 square feet on the same level as the existing facility, and another 7,500
square feet as a lower level.
Included in Phase 1, along with the building addition, would be a reconfiguration and
addition to the existing parking lot (retaining as many existing parking spaces as possible for
reasons of efficiency and cost), construction of the new second access into the site,
bicycle/pedestrian improvements along Homestead Road, and reservation of a Veterans
Memorial site.
Phase 2 would include more extensive work on the site. Phase two would involve (1)
An additional expansion of the Southern Human Services Building, with associated additional
parking and circulation roads; (2) Expansion of the Seymour Center, with associated additional
parking and drop-off areas; (3) Reconfiguration of the existing entrance drive (using the Phase
1 newly constructed secondary entrance road for all access while the main entrance is being
rebuilt); and (4) Reconstruction of the stormwater management ponds, designed to become an
amenity for the site.
Phase 3 is the most conceptual, due in part to its being 10-15 years out. All
infrastructure improvements and elements required as conditions of the Special Use Permit
approval would very likely be completed by the end of Phase 2 of this implementation plan.
Phase 3 becomes, in some ways, a placeholder for future needs. Phase 1 would likely add
15,000 square feet of floor area (addition to Southern Human Services Center). Phase 2 would
likely add approximately 46,500 square feet (16,500 square foot addition to the Seymour
Center, and a second addition of 15,000 square feet to the Southern Human Services Center).
That leaves approximately 250,000 square feet of additional new building capacity that can be
built as needs and circumstances require in the future. The following sketch shows the three
locations on the site where additional buildings and parking could be located, as approved in
the Master Plan and authorized with the Special Use Permit:
Following are initial preliminary cost estimates, in current dollars, with contingencies
added, for funding needed to accomplish the first two phases of implementation, as described
in this Implementation Report.
Phase 1: Two-story building addition to Southern Human Services Building, with related
parking and internal road changes, and construction of new, second access into the site (as
illustrated on page 11).
Building Addition to SHS - 15,000 sf
With Related Site Work, Parking $6,000,000 to $6,625,000
Infrastructure Costs, Including New Road $1,800,000 to $1,980,000
Total Phase 1 $7,800,000 to $8,605,000
Phase 2: Additional 2-story expansion of the Southern Human Services Building, 2-story
expansion of the Seymour Center, reconfiguration of the existing entrance drive, and
reconstruction of the stormwater management ponds (as illustrated on page 12).
2nd Building Addition to SHS - 15,000 sf
With Additional Site Work, Parking $6,000,000 to $6,625,000
Building addition to Sr. Center - 16,500 sf
With Site work for new parking areas $6,600,000 to $7,425,000
Infrastructure costs $6,000,000 to $660,000
Total phase 2 $13,200,000 to $14,710,000
Chair McKee asked if 48 additional parking spaces are enough.
Mike Hammersley said this is a campus and there is more than one area that will
accommodate parking. He said there is the ability to build as much parking as is seen fit. He
added that the idea of an internal shuttle system has also been considered.
Chair McKee said many seniors use this site and ample adjacent parking or a shuttle is
important
Mike Hammersley said this needs to be a more transit oriented site.
Commissioner Price asked if the slope of the new road is known.
Mike Hammersley said it is not going to be much steeper than it is now.
Roger Waldon said the campus will be ADA compliant.
Roger Waldon resumed the PowerPoint presentation:
Additional Ideas for Consideration
• Southern Human Services Building:
- Possible use of Lower Floor for Emergency Services
• Seymour Center:
- Possible building modifications
- Increase amount of usable space
- Relatively lower costs, awaiting Phase 2
Roger Waldon reviewed the following information regarding "Ideas for Consideration" found on
page 14-16 of the Implementation Report:
Regarding the Southern Human Services Building: There is interest and opportunity in
considering the lower floor of the proposed Phase 1 building addition for Emergency Services
operations. The combination of good access for equipment and loading, a safe and easily
secured physical setting (in a setting resembling a lower-level basement), and proximity to
Chapel Hill and Carrboro is unique. This building addition is proposed at 15,000 square feet,
meaning that 7,500 square feet of lower level space would be available.
Regarding the Seymour Center: Study of the site and this facility resulted in a series of
suggestions for relatively minor structural changes that would result in an increase in the
amount of usable space in the Center. These are not included as part of the Phase 2 building
expansion, but rather offered as ideas for smaller projects that could enhance the usability of
the existing building, in the interim period before Phase 2 work can be funded and
implemented. Part of the scope of this implementation phase was to secure assistance and
suggestions from a professional with expertise in emerging trends in senior center focus and
design. Assistance was obtained from Rick Eldridge, Executive Director of the Rufty-Holmes
Senior Center in Salisbury, NC, and a contributor to regional and national examination of these
issues.
Following is a list of these suggestions for consideration, suggesting ideas which would
enhance capacity of the building, while awaiting the full building addition:
1) Remove/re-locate the wall separating the hallway from the large multipurpose room.
2) Fill-in the floors/ceilings between levels.
3) Relocate open lounge space in lobby to new flooring area and construct new offices in
lobby.
4) Convert areas used for fitness machines to office space (with construction of new fitness
wing).
5) Reconfigure the Computer Lab to regular classroom space over time by investing in laptops
or tablets rather than desktop units, and making sure the building has Wi-Fi throughout.
Roger Waldon concluded the PowerPoint presentation:
Next Steps
• Subdivision of Parcel
• Detailed Drawings and Plans for Phase 1
• Obtain Permits for Phase 1 Construction
Commissioner Dorosin asked if the plans contained in the packets before the Board
include only additions to existing buildings rather than building up higher above the existing
Southern Human Services Building.
Roger Waldon said yes.
Commissioner Dorosin asked if that determination was made based upon an evaluation
of the existing building and the conclusion that it would not sustain a higher level.
Roger Waldon said the current plan is a very cost effective way to add 15,000 sq ft.
Jeff Thompson said the space study concluded that more space is not currently needed
and the plan is addressing the dental clinic expansion and other discussed uses. He said he
does not believe the facility is currently structured to go up.
Commissioner Dorosin asked if once the planned construction is completed, if the
Special Use Permit (SUP) allows for housing to be put on the site.
Roger Waldon said he believed the SUP is specific to government services but he will
check.
Commissioner Dorosin asked if a County sponsored apartment building were
constructed on the site would it qualify as government services.
Roger Waldon said yes.
Commissioner Burroughs asked if the Phase one numbers match up with Year 2 in the
CIP.
Jeff Thompson said the CIP is showing two projects: the $4 million infrastructure
project and the Southern Human Services Center expansion. He said the $4 million project is
removed and approximately $2 million of those funds are applied to the Southern Human
Services Center expansion. He said the balance of the funds would be spread out over Years
6-10 of the CIP.
Commissioner Pelissier asked for clarification regarding transit improvements and if
they must be approved by the Town Manager.
Roger Waldon said improvements would be bus stops for drop off and pick-ups and the
Town would want to look at the plans prior to issuing the permits for construction.
Roger Waldon referred back to Commissioner Dorosin's question regarding permitted
uses for the land. He said the following is permitted: "governmental uses and facilities
intended to provide protective, administrative, residential, social, transit and recreational
services directly to general public."
Commissioner Jacobs said the site had been considered for a homeless shelter but
that did not happen. He said there is still need for a general shelter and a shelter for battered
women as these needs are not being met.
Commissioner Jacobs said he was at the site recently with the Veterans' Memorial
Committee and David Swanson, who created the original design for the Veterans' memorial.
He asked if the Board should encourage the Committee to go through the outside agency
process for this proposed memorial. He said the committee currently intends to raise the funds
themselves but he suggested the Board should consider if there is a way to be more involved.
Commissioner Price asked if there is a timeline for the construction of the dental clinic.
Jeff Thompson said 2016-17, in Phase One.
Commissioner Rich asked if the Senior Center were to be renovated rather than
expanded, during which phase this would occur.
Roger Waldon said those renovations could go forward ahead of time and not be a part
of the phasing.
Commissioner Rich said she would like to see the renovations move forward prior to
the addition. She said the Center is wildly popular and there is a deficit of space. She would
like to know the costs, timeframe, and inconvenience to the clients, etc. She added that any
renovations should take into consideration the potential removal of lighting from the
recreational area.
Commissioner Dorosin said he is not sure that housing Information Technology here is
applicable. He said it is not regularly accessed by the public and it seems a waste to place it
here when other services that have heavy public interaction could be here instead.
Jeff Thompson said there would be a redundant Information Technology server center
that is 400 square feet or less.
Commissioner Dorosin said this is very valuable real estate in Chapel Hill and even
400 additional square feet being available to human services should be a priority.
Commissioner Price said when the space study was reviewed this location was a good
fit for this Information Technology center. She said she sees it as more of a strategic
placement.
Commissioner Dorosin said the Board should think broadly about what services can
be dispersed throughout the County.
9. County Manager's Report
NONE
10. County Attorney's Report
NONE
11. Appointments
NONE
12. Board Comments
Commissioner Price had no comments.
Commissioner Jacobs asked if the Chair and Vice Chair could reinstate the strike
through versions of documents and allow for the Board to receive written follow up when there
is a meeting with people such as Morinaga.
Chair McKee thanked Commissioner Jacobs for bringing this reminder to the Board's
attention.
Commissioner Pelissier said the Durham-Orange Light Rail project continues to move
forward. She said Go Triangle submitted the draft Environmental Impact Study last night and
should hear in February whether the project can continue. She said there was a meeting
today at the Chapel Hill Library for the public to receive an update and provide input. She said
70 people were present for this meeting. She said Wake County is still considering their own
light rail system.
Commissioner Jacobs asked if Go Triangle could send the Board their
recommendations. He said he has heard complaints regarding proposals but he does not
know the specifics of any of the proposals.
Commissioner Pelissier said she just saw it today and asked for a copy to be sent to
the Go Triangle Board which could in turn be sent to the BOCC.
Bonnie Hammersley said she would get it and send it out.
Commissioner Rich had no comments.
Commissioner Burroughs expressed her support for value engineering being used
more widely.
Commissioner Dorosin said the Magistrate Exemption Bill for same-sex marriages, the
religious belief exemption bill, passed the House and Senate last week, and the Governor
vetoed it. He said the Senate voted to override the veto and now the House takes it up next.
Commissioner Rich said it would be interesting to know how many challenges there
are to bills and how much tax dollars go in to fighting these lawsuits.
Chair McKee said there is a possibility of this override passing in the House but it is
slim.
13. Information Items
• May 19, 2015 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/Refunds under $100
• BOCC Chair Letter Regarding Petitions from May 19, 2015 Board Meeting
14. Closed Session
Canceled
15. Adjournment
A motion was made by Commissioner Rich, seconded by Commissioner Jacobs to
adjourn the meeting at 10:05 p.m.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
Earl McKee, Chair
Donna Baker, Clerk to the Board