HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 04-05-2016 1
APPROVED 5/5/2016
MINUTES
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING
April 5, 2016
7:00 p.m.
The Orange County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, April 5, 2016
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, Deputy County Manager
Travis Myren and Clerk to the Board Donna Baker (All other staff members will be identified
appropriately below)
Chair McKee called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m.
Chair McKee mentioned the passing of R.D. Smith, a long time educator in Orange
County.
1. Additions or Changes to the Agenda
A motion was made by Commissioner Price, seconded by Commissioner Pelissier to
move the consent agenda forward before Item 4, Proclamations and Special Presentations,
since these items may be time extensive.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
Chair McKee noted the following additional items at the Commissioners' places:
- white sheet: hand out for item 4d, Orange County Food Council.
- red folder: additional information for item 7a, New Slogan for Interstate NCDOT Welcome
Sign.
PUBLIC CHARGE
Chair McKee dispensed with the reading of the Public Charge.
2. Public Comments
a. Matters not on the Printed Agenda
Don O'Leary spoke on the social justice issue and read a passage from the King
James Version of the Bible. He said this issue with having men using ladies rooms, and
vice versa, is designed to upset people. He suggested all commissioners pray that the
Lord forgives them for supporting this issue. He said this issue is not about gay or
lesbian people, but rather it is about control. He said he does not see how this issue is
social justice for his wife or him. He said ordinances like the one proposed in Charlotte
will cause mayhem and are not right.
2
b. Matters on the Printed Agenda
(These matters will be considered when the Board addresses that item on the agenda
below.)
2. Petitions by Board Members
Commissioner Jacobs petitioned that the legislature not convene this year. He
identified potential economic fallout from legislation.
Commissioner Price said that former Chapel Hill Mayor Sandy McClamroch also passed
away.
Commissioner Price petitioned the Board to formally oppose HB2 as it relates to
discrimination and the stripping of local authority from municipalities and counties. She said
various cities have passed similar resolutions.
Commissioner Dorosin petitioned for a post-election report from the Board of Elections.
Commissioner Dorosin gave props to the Board of Elections, noting their great efforts,
in response to a Board of County Commissioners' (BOCC) request, reaching out to formally
incarcerated persons about getting re-registered, etc.
Chair McKee asked the Manager to follow up on Commissioner Dorosin's requested
report.
Commissioner Rich echoed Commissioner Dorosin's request for the post election
report.
Commissioner Rich said when meeting summaries are sent out to be sure to include
the break down on how commissioners vote on contested motions.
Donna Baker said this is done in the minutes and can also be done in the summaries.
Commissioner Rich congratulated Smith Middle School where students were active in
creating a gender-neutral bathroom.
Commissioner Pelissier had no petitions.
Commissioner Burroughs had no petitions.
Chair McKee said he agreed with Commissioner Price's petition to oppose HB2, as it
covered a lot more than just the bathroom issue. He said it impinged on county government's
ability to voice their residents' opinions.
Commissioner Jacobs requested that part of the resolution note the importance of
having an open governmental process.
6. Consent Agenda
• Removal of Any Items from Consent Agenda
• Approval of Remaining Consent Agenda
A motion was made by Commissioner Dorosin, seconded by Commissioner Burroughs
to approve the remaining items on the Consent Agenda.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
• Discussion and Approval of the Items Removed from the Consent Agenda
a. Minutes
The Board approved the minutes from March 1, 2016 as submitted by the Clerk to the Board.
3
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 six (6) taxpayers with a total of six (6) 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 three (3) taxpayers with a total of seven (7) bills that will result in a reduction of
revenue in accordance with North Carolina General Statute 105-381.
d. North Carolina Governor's Highway Safety Program: Orange County Sheriff's Office
Traffic Safety Project
The Board adopted a resolution, which is incorporated by reference, recognizing federal
funding for traffic safety projects to the Sheriff's Office; and authorized the Chair to sign.
e. Request for an Additional 1.0 FTE for a Behavioral Health Social Work Clinical
Specialist for Integrated Behavioral Health Services
The Board approved a Board of Health recommended request for an additional 1.0 FTE (full
time equivalent) position for a behavioral health Social Work Clinical Specialist to support the
continuation of a successful pilot program integrating behavioral and mental health treatment
services into the Health Department's Medical Clinic. The position will cost a total of $6,323 for
the remainder of the current fiscal year and $79,694 for FY 2016-17. The position will be fully
funded using maintenance of effort funds currently paid to Cardinal Innovations for mental
health services.
f. Request for Road Additions to the State Maintained Secondary Road System
The Board made a recommendation to the North Carolina Department of Transportation
(NCDOT), and the North Carolina Board of Transportation (NCBOT), concerning a petition to
add Governor Holt Street, Governor Sanford Street, Governor Martin Street, Governor
Umstead Circle, Governor Broughton Street, Governor Hunt Street, Governor Cherry Circle
and Governor Moore Street in Governors Grove Subdivision to the State Maintained
Secondary Road System.
g. Modifications to Beaver Valley Recorded Final Plat— Modification of Right-of-Way for
Beaver Valley Drive
The Board modified a recorded subdivision plat modifying the extension of Beaver Valley
Drive.
h. License Agreement Renewal — Eno River Farmers' Market, Inc.
The Board approved a renewed license agreement for the Eno River Farmers' Market, Inc., for
use of the Farmers' Market Pavilion from April 1, 2016 through March 31, 2019 and authorized
the Chair to sign.
i. Community Home Trust Request— Housing Bond Program
The Board approved the request of Community Home Trust to use the approved
reallocated $75,000 of Affordable Housing Bond Funds for anticipated repairs to the
HVAC systems at Greenbridge Condominiums as grant funding.
j. Resolution Regarding a Purchase Agreement between Orange County Schools and
Chase Equipment Finance to Provide Computers for Teachers and Students
The Board adopted a resolution, which is incorporated by reference, approving a purchase
agreement between Orange County Schools (OCS) and Chase Equipment Finance for the
purchase of computers for teachers and students to upgrade the District's digital technology
and authorized the Chair to sign.
4
k. Change in BOCC Regular Meeting Schedule for 2016
The Board amended its regular meeting calendar for 2016 to re-schedule the date of the Joint
Meeting between the Board and the Chapel Hill Town Council to Thursday, June 2, 2016 at
7:00 p.m. at the Southern Human Services Center, 2501 Homestead Rd. in Chapel Hill.
4. Proclamations/ Resolutions/ Special Presentations
a. Sexual Assault Awareness Month
The Board considered a proclamation recognizing April 2016 as Sexual Assault
Awareness Month in Orange County and authorizing the Chair to sign.
Sara Stephens, Orange County Rape Crisis Center, read the proclamation:
ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Proclamation
"Sexual Assault Awareness Month 2016 Proclamation
WHEREAS, the Orange County Rape Crisis Center assisted over 500 survivors of sexual
violence, their loved ones, and community professionals during 2015; and
WHEREAS, the Orange County Rape Crisis Center works with the county's two school
systems and other groups to provide students with age-appropriate information about violence
prevention, reaching over 13,500 youth and adults each year; and
WHEREAS, the coordination of the Orange County Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) is
bringing together members of law enforcement, the medical community, the legal system, and
other community advocates to improve services for survivors of sexual assault who come
forward; and
WHEREAS, 1 in 5 American women have been sexually assaulted at some point in their lives
(Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2010); and
WHEREAS, in the United States rape is the most costly crime to its survivors, totaling $127
billion a year considering factors such as medical cost, lost earnings, pain, suffering, and lost
quality of life (U.S. Department of Justice, 1996); and
WHEREAS, in the United States 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men have experienced some form of
sexual or physical violence committed by an intimate partner (Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention, 2010); and
WHEREAS, there are more than 16,500 sex offenders registered as living in North Carolina
(Department of Justice, 2015); and
WHEREAS, victim-blaming continues to be an enormous problem in instances of rape and
sexual assault; and
WHEREAS, the Orange County Rape Crisis Center, a nonprofit agency that has served this
community since 1974, is working to stop sexual violence and its impact through support,
education, and advocacy;
5
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Orange County Board of Commissioners,
do hereby proclaim the month of April 2016 as "SEXUAL ASSAULT AWARENESS MONTH",
and encourage all residents to speak out against sexual violence and to support their local
community's efforts to prevent and respond to these appalling crimes.
This, the 51h day of April 2016.
A motion was made by Commissioner Rich, seconded by Commissioner Burroughs for
the Board to approve the proclamation designating April as "Sexual Assault Awareness Month"
in Orange County and authorized the Chair to sign the proclamation.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
b. National County Government Month in Orange County
The Board considered a proclamation recognizing April 2016 as National County
Government Month in Orange County and authorizing the Chair to sign.
Laurie Paolicelli, Orange County Community Relations Director, read the proclamation:
ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Proclamation
National County Government Month -April 2016 "Safe and Secure Counties"
WHEREAS, the nation's 3,069 counties serving more than 300 million Americans provide
essential services to create healthy, safe, vibrant and economically resilient communities; and
WHEREAS, Orange County and all counties take pride in our responsibility to protect and
enhance the health, well-being and safety of our residents in efficient and cost-effective ways;
and
WHEREAS, through National Association of Counties (NACo) President Sallie Clark's "Safe
and Secure Counties" initiative, NACo is encouraging counties to focus on strengthening the
safety and security of their communities; and
WHEREAS, in order to remain healthy, vibrant, safe, and economically competitive, America's
counties provide public health, justice, emergency management and economic services that
play a key role in everything from residents' daily health to disaster response; and
WHEREAS, each year since 1991 the National Association of Counties has encouraged
counties across the country to actively promote programs and services to the public we serve;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Orange County Board of Commissioners
does hereby proclaim April 2016 as National County Government Month and encourage all
County officials, employees, schools and residents to participate in the Orange County
Government Expo activities on Friday, April 8, 2016.
6
A motion was made by Commissioner Price, seconded by Commissioner Pelissier for
the Board to approve the proclamation recognizing April as National County Government
Month in Orange County and authorized the Chair to sign the proclamation.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
c. Public Safety Telecommunications Week
The Board considered a proclamation recognizing the week of April 10 through 16,
2016 as Public Safety Telecommunications Week in Orange County and authorizing the Chair
to sign.
Chair McKee publicly commended Interim Emergency Services Director, Dinah Jeffries;
the Sheriff; and all public safety officials involved in insuring safety after the NCAA
Championship game.
Dinah Jeffries thanked Chair McKee for his comments and also commended her staff
for their efforts. She said Orange County has a superior commitment to public safety.
Kevin Medlin, Interim 9-1-1 Communications Operations Manager, read the
proclamation:
ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
PUBLIC SAFETY TELECOMMUNICATIONS WEEK 2016
A PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, Thousands of dedicated Telecommunicators daily serve the residents of the
United States and Canada by answering their telephone calls for law enforcement, fire, and
emergency medical services by dispatching the appropriate assistance as quickly as possible;
and
WHEREAS, Professional Telecommunicators are the link between those residents who call for
help and the agencies which provide the help; and
WHEREAS, The critical functions performed by professional Telecommunicators impact all
aspects of public safety and include those performed by forestry and conservation operations,
highway safety and maintenance activities, and many other operations performed by federal,
state and local government agencies; and
WHEREAS, Professional Telecommunicators work to improve the emergency response
capabilities of these communication systems through their leadership and participation in
training programs and other activities provided by the Association of Public Safety
Communications Officials - International and the National Emergency Number Association; and
WHEREAS, These associations are organizations of more than 100,000 people engaged in
the design, installation and operation of emergency response communications that have set
aside the week beginning April 10, 2016 to recognize Telecommunicators and their crucial role
in the protection of life and property;
NOW, THEREFORE, we, the Orange County Board of Commissioners, do hereby proclaim the
week of April 10-16, 2016 as "Public Safety Telecommunications Week" in Orange County,
North Carolina, in honor and recognition of our County's Telecommunicators and the vital
contributions they make to the safety and well being of our residents, those passing through
7
our county and our public safety providers.
Adopted this 5th day of April 2016.
A motion was made by Commissioner Jacobs, seconded by Commissioner Price for the
Board to approve the proclamation recognizing the week of April 10 through 16, 2016 as
Public Safety Telecommunications Week in Orange County and authorized the Chair to sign
the proclamation.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
d. Orange County Food Council
The Board received an update on the status of the formation of the Orange County
Food Council and consider a request that one member of the Board be appointed to the
Council representing Orange County.
Mike Ortosky, Orange County Agriculture Economic Developer, reviewed the following
information:
PURPOSE: To receive an update on the status of the formation of the Orange County Food
Council and consider a request that one member of the Board be appointed to the Council
representing Orange County.
BACKGROUND: In response to changing demand for local food systems, healthier eating
habits, need for viable farming options, and food access issues, Food Councils are
increasingly becoming an instrument for input from local residents and for guiding businesses
and policy makers. A grassroots Task Force was formed and has been meeting regularly for
over a year to develop a local food council. The Orange County Economic Development
Office funded the facilitation of the initial formative meetings. Two public meetings have also
been conducted and a preliminary food assessment has been completed to further inform the
process.
The Task Force has proposed 15 positions (from specific professional and community-related
positions to include elected officials) and plans for the first Council to meet within the next 60
days. Applications have been received from many sources and the Task Force is considering
those as it also asks for elected officials from Orange County, Chapel Hill, Hillsborough, and
Carrboro to be Council members.
Cyril Murphy, Orange County Food Council Task Force Member and Food Service
Director at Camp Chestnut Ridge, presented the following PowerPoint slides:
Orange County Food Council
Common Purpose
The Orange County Food Council is building a local food system that ensures health,
sustainable agriculture and access for all.
Food Councils
• Non-profit organizations
• Advisory boards to city or county government
8
• Facilitate connections — across departmental silos and within the community
• Provide focus —through assessing, learning, and identifying priorities
• Policy and programming recommendations that drive action
What Food Councils can do:
• Advocate for a policy to require that 10% of all food served at county catered events
and small department-sponsored meeting be sourced locally.
• Improve access to food processing resources and kitchen equipment/facilities for local
food entrepreneurs.
• Assist in writing/support policy to allow community gardens on city-owned property.
• Advocate for a policy limiting the sugary products available in vending machines, and
approved for fundraising at local public schools.
What have we done so far:
Collaborative Agreement
• Defines Purpose, Common Values, Structure, Decision-making Process and
Membership
• Membership stakeholder categories:
o Food Access/security
o Agriculture
o Health/Healthcare
o Economic Development
o Environmental stewardship/justice
o Planning
o Public education
o Retail: grocers, restaurant, wholesale
o Waste management
o Elected officials from municipalities
o UNC
o Faith-based organizations
o Consumers (diverse including across lifespan, ethnicity)
Sarah Prager, Orange County Food Council Member and Chapel Hill Farmer's Market
Coordinator, continued the presentation:
Baseline Orange County Food Assessment: Purpose &Approach
Purpose: Understand how the Orange County Food Council may support a successful and
socially, economically, and environmentally just system providing safe, culturally appropriate,
and nutritionally sound food.
Food Assessment: Data Collected
Cyril Murphy resumed the presentation:
Next Steps...
• Finalize Council membership including representation from all municipal elected bodies.
o Includes appointment of Orange County Commissioner to Council seat
• Transition from Task Force to Council
• Hire part-time Coordinator
9
• Complete Qualitative portion of Baseline Food Assessment
• Create Food Security Action Plan for Orange County
• Conduct outreach and hold two large community forums over the first year of the
council's life.
Commissioner Dorosin referred to the handout, noting that "a majority of Chapel Hill
and Carrboro is a classified food desert". He asked if there could be clarification of this
statement.
Sarah Prager said the USDA classifies a food desert area partly by looking at income
levels, and the (UNC) student population brings the overall income level down. She said the
food desert measurement is a half mile. She said the USDA only considers grocery stores that
have a certain level of sales. She said this can ignore local data and culture, which is why
qualitative data is vital.
Commissioner Dorosin encouraged the changing of the language in this hand out,
because though it may be technically accurate, it is very misleading.
Commissioner Jacobs thanked Mike Ortosky, Steve Brantley, Orange County Economic
Development Director, and Molly DeMarco, Center for Health Promotion and Disease
Prevention at the University of North Carolina, for their leadership thus far through the county
process.
Commissioner Jacobs said he disagreed with Commissioner Dorosin's comments and
said downtown Chapel Hill is a food desert for fresh, affordable food, outside of a restaurant
setting. He said many neighborhoods are over a half a mile from a grocery store and
suggested not changing the language until there is more data and discussion.
Commissioner Price said the summary focuses more on Chapel Hill and Carrboro and
noted that Hillsborough has some food deserts too.
Commissioner Price asked if there are any farmers or non-profits on the council.
Mike Ortosky said the Agricultural Preservation Board (APB) was approached and a
member from this board is on this council.
Cyril Murphy said there are representatives from non-profits such as Chestnut Ridge,
as well as from Community Gardens and the school systems.
Commissioner Pelissier said she would like the BOCC to receive an annual update
from the Food Council.
Commissioner Pelissier asked if there was going to be any interaction between the
Food Council and the APB.
Mike Ortosky said yes, the Council will reach out to farmers, food service people, as
well as those in need of food access.
Commissioner Rich said the University of North Carolina students should not be
forgotten as many of them cannot afford to eat.
Commissioner Jacobs said he would like to be the BOCC representative to the Council.
Commissioner Rich backed Commissioner Jacobs for this.
Cyril Murphy said elected officials would have a one-year commitment which would be
renewable.
Commissioner Price said Durham Tech students have many food needs as well. She
suggested speaking with that community, about potential involvement in the Council as well.
Chair McKee said to reach out to the traditional farmers as well.
Commissioner Jacobs volunteered to serve on the Council, and Commissioner Rich
volunteered to be the alternate.
The Board agreed by consensus.
10
e. Fair Housing Month Proclamation
The Board considered a proclamation recognizing April 2016 as Fair Housing Month in
Orange County and authorizing the Chair to sign.
Susie Enoch, Human Relation Commission (HRC), member read the proclamation:
ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
PROCLAMATION
FAIR HOUSING MONTH
WHEREAS, April 2016 marks the 48th anniversary of Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968
(formally known as the Fair Housing Act) and the 33rd anniversary of the North
Carolina Fair Housing Act prohibiting discrimination in housing on the basis of
race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability and familial status; and
WHEREAS, the Orange County Board of Commissioners enacted the Orange County Civil
Rights Ordinance on June 6, 1994, which affords to the residents of Orange
County the protections guaranteed by the Fair Housing Act and additionally
encompasses the protected classes of Veteran Status and Age; and
WHEREAS, Orange County and the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
as well as concerned residents and the housing industry are working to make
fair housing opportunities possible for everyone by encouraging others to abide
by the letter and the spirit of fair housing laws; and
WHEREAS, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development annually declares the
month of April as National Fair Housing Month, designating Shared Opportunity
in Every Community as the national theme and ideal for 2016; and
WHEREAS, despite the protections afforded by the Orange County Civil Rights Ordinance and
the Fair Housing Act, illegal housing discrimination still occurs in our nation and
within our County; and
WHEREAS, by supporting and promoting fair housing and equal opportunity, we are
contributing to the strength of our County, State and Nation;
NOW, THEREFORE, we, the Board of County Commissioners of Orange County North
Carolina, do proclaim April 2016 as FAIR HOUSING MONTH and commend this observance to
all Orange County residents.
This the 5th day of April 2016.
A motion was made by Commissioner Jacobs, seconded by Commissioner Price for the
Board to approve the proclamation and authorize the Chair to sign the proclamation.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
f. Proposed Orange County FY 2016 - 2020 Affordable Housing Strategic Plan
The Board received the Draft of the Proposed Orange County FY 2016- 2020
Affordable Housing Strategic Plan.
11
Bonnie Hammersley said the objective this evening is to do an overview of the
presentation, and a more in depth conversation will occur at the work session on May 10.
Audrey Spencer Horsley, Housing, Human Rights, Community Development Director,
reviewed the following information:
PURPOSE: To receive the Draft of the Proposed Orange County FY 2016- 2020 Affordable
Housing Strategic Plan.
BACKGROUND: This Proposed 2016— 2020 Affordable Housing Strategic Plan (AHSP) has
been developed as the County's vision for addressing affordable housing needs over the next
five (5) years. Affordable housing is a foundation for achieving self-sufficiency and promotes
stronger, more inclusive communities.
The Orange County Board of Commissioners met on January 29, 2016 for an annual retreat.
In reviewing the previous six goals the Board has used since 2009, affordable housing was a
high priority under Goal 1: Ensure a community network of basic human services and
infrastructure that maintains, protects, and promotes the well-being of all county residents.
The Board stated that there be a priority for decent, standard housing options for all residents
regardless of household income level and that funds be used to develop a targeted number of
units (set numerical goal), especially rentals. The AHSP addresses this priority of the Board.
The AHSP analyzes the current rental and homeowner housing market, examines housing
market trends and economic trends, specifically in relation to household income and identifies
the widening gap between needs and affordable housing countywide as well as public policies
and actions affecting affordable housing in the County. The AHSP identifies goals for the next
five years, and proposes strategies and opportunities to meet those goals.
In order to begin to meet the need for affordable housing in Orange County, particularly
residents who are most cost burdened at 30% to 50 % median income as discussed in the
AHSP, the ASHP has an overarching shared countywide goal of creating 1,000 assisted
affordable housing units in five years. The shared countywide goal of 1,000 assisted units are
to be provided through acquisition, construction, urgent repair, assisted housing, and
rehabilitation of the existing housing stock over the next five (5) years.
At least 500 of those units are recommended to be new assisted rental units that do not exist
today. They would be created through the planned November 2016 $5 million bond
referendum for affordable housing. Of those 500 new units, twenty-five to thirty percent (25%-
30%) will be targeted to serve extremely and very low-income households, at or below 30% —
50% of median income. Another twenty-five to thirty percent (25%-30%) of the new units
would be targeted to serve special needs populations including the homeless, persons with
physical and/or mental disabilities and older adults. The remaining 500 units would be units
provided for individuals and households that are at or below 50-80% of median income for the
County and would include rental and homeownership units.
The AHSP has identified ten goals with strategies provided for each goal and action and
recommendations to implement them. The thirty-three: Actions (A)/Recommendations(R) are
listed with each goal and set of strategies. Those numbered with (AR) are
Actions/Recommendations staff is requesting to pursue immediately and or require funding
decisions. With the Board's approval of the AHSP, staff will bring back to the Board detailed
12
work plans and metrics in collaboration with community and municipal partners and County
agencies.
The ASHP builds on the analyses, data, community-wide input, findings and strategies in the
Orange County Consolidated Plan and the Analysis of Impediments to fair housing choice
prepared for the Orange County HOME Consortium that is comprised of Orange County and
the Town of Carrboro, Town of Chapel Hill and Town of Hillsborough. The AHSP identifies the
critical need for affordable housing for individuals and households of extremely and very low
income and for population groups with special needs including the homeless, persons with
physical and or mental disabilities and the elderly.
The AHSP reviewed existing affordable housing programs and tools of the County and covers
an assessment of the county's housing stock. This included examining mobile home parks of
the County, a source of affordable housing; publicly owned land and other development
opportunities; and challenges for preserving and increasing the supply of affordable housing
given the County's existing and planned infrastructure and access to transportation,
employment, services and other community assets.
Community meetings and outreach have been planned with nonprofit providers and various
community organizations. This provides an additional opportunity for the public, various
agencies and other interested parties to have further input into the AHSP and comment on the
goals, strategies and actions and recommendations.
Commissioner Dorosin said he appreciated the target numbers. He asked if 500 of the
targeted housing units are going to be new rental units, which do not currently exist. He asked
if these estimated numbers are starting from scratch or adding to an existing pool on
affordable rental properties.
Audrey Spencer Horsley said the current inventory is a rough estimate, as of now. She
counted units where she knew she was not double counting. She said the goal is to look at
everything that has been funded by Orange County.
Audrey Spencer Horsley said to date there are 560 housing choice vouchers units, and
are not currently maxed out on the number of units where federal assistance could be
received. She said some of the goals are to incentivize the housing choice program,
determine how to bring on more stock, and to help some participants to become homeowners.
She said the maximum number of units is 623. She said there are also 449 low-income, tax
credit properties, 214 rental units and 299 homeowner units assisted through the Home
program.
Audrey Spencer Horsley said 177 units were completed through the bond of 1997, and
there is a conservative estimate of 175 units completed through the bond of 2001. She said
there are approximately 2000 assisted units, and 550-600 units on homeowner side. She said
there have also been approximately 400 homeowner urgent repairs.
Audrey Spencer Horsley said it is important to keep an eye on those renting private
housing stock, as some of these can be affordable due to age or necessary updates. She
said there may be owners willing to sell rather than upgrade themselves, which may be a way
to keep renters in their homes.
Audrey Spencer Horsley reviewed a listing of upcoming community meetings. She said
the goal of these meetings is to inform as many members of the community as possible.
Commissioner Price asked if mobile homes were being counted.
13
Audrey Spencer Horsley said mobile homes are counted in the overall housing stock,
and there is no differentiation between rentals and owned.
ORANGE COUNTY
AFFORDABLE HOUSING STRATEGIC PLAN
Board of Orange County Commissioners
Presentation
March 22, 2016
AFFORDABLE HOUSING STRATEGIC PLAN
• County's long-range vision for addressing affordable housing needs over the next five
(5) years.
• AHSP analyzes the current housing market, examines trends in the housing market
economic opportunities of Orange County
• Identifies shortcomings in affordable housing countywide and proposes strategies to
meet those goals.
1,000 Units in Five Years
• Create 1,000 Affordable Housing Units in Five Years:
o 250 units —targeted for very low income individuals and household
o 250 units —targeted for special needs populations
o 500 units —targeted for 50% to 80% median income
o Countywide shared goal
o Acquisition, construction, urgent repair, assisted housing, and rehabilitation
Goal 1: Continuum of Affordable Housing —Action Recommendations
• AR1: Publicly Owned Small Parcel Development
• AR2: Development and Maintenance of Inventory
• AR3: Housing Authority as Property Manager
• AR4: Design Competition for larger scale development
• AR8: Preserve inventory of mobile homes
• AR11: Community plan for housing emergencies; coordinated intake for homeless
seeking services
Goal 2: Increase Housing and Employment, Reduce Poverty
• AR12: Strengthen interagency collaboration and draw on existing expertise and
capacity to implement the Strategic Plan
o Family Success Alliance
o Master Aging Plan
o Partnership to End Homelessness
o Advisory Boards and Commissions
o Housing Authority
o Municipal Partners
Goal 3: Provide housing and services to populations with special needs
• AR16: Address unmet community housing needs in collaboration with partners
o Emergency shelter for individuals and families
o Domestic violence shelter
14
o More permanent supportive housing for people with disabilities and young people
experiencing homelessness
Goal 4: Provide adequate supply of housing options for older residents
• AR 19: Expand the Urgent Repair Program to serve 25 additional older residents or
people with disabilities
o Add $150,000 to $200,000 to current budget
o Eliminate the current waiting list
Goal 5: Preserve current supply of rental housing and prevent future loss
• AR 21: Increase funding available for housing rehabilitation projects
o Leverage maximum funding through the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency
o Add $200,000 to $250,000 in County funding for older housing rehabilitation — an
additional seven homes annually.
Goal 6: Improve knowledge of fair housing laws and regulations
• A 23: Strengthen education and outreach programs
o Fair Housing Act
o Orange County Human Relations Ordinance
Goal 7: Access to job opportunities and skill development
• AR 24: Study, plan and develop bus routes or other public transportation alternatives
o Access to business nodes for employment
o Access to job training and other supportive services and community amenities
Goal 8: Provide staffing to deliver high quality housing services
• AR 25: Provide leadership and support to community partners to implement the
strategic plan
o Continue broad community/stakeholder involvement
• AR 25: Continue to strengthen internal management of affordable housing programs
and services
o Including cooperation and support of other agencies
• Track and report on implementation of the strategic plan to the Board of County
Commissioners and community partners
Goal 9: Identify resources to help meet the needs identified in the plan
• AR28: Identify a dedicated source of funding and a plan of implementation
• AR29: Maintain a set aside of funding for land banking and property acquisition
• AR30: Partner with community and municipal partners on projects, grant applications
• AR31: Support opportunities to partner with community and municipal partners on
implementing strategies
Goal 10: Encourage and support intergovernmental cooperation
• AR32: Continue joint planning efforts related to outside funding opportunities
• AR33: Collaborate and exchange information with municipalities on affordable housing
issues
o Funding
o Planning
15
o Training
o Problem solving
o Civic engagement
o Building community partnerships
Commissioner Rich referred to goals 30 and 31 and asked if conversations with
municipal partners have started and how the partnerships are taking shape.
Audrey Spencer Horsley said one-on-one conversations have been occurring. She
gave the example of doing outreach with non-profits. She said four non-profits responded to
their questionnaire, which provided an overview of the strategic plans of these non-profits, and
can in turn allow all to be more effective partners.
Audrey Spencer Horsley said meetings with Chapel Hill Housing staff have also
occurred.
Commissioner Rich said this should be a countywide effort including the municipalities
and not everyone acting in silos.
Commissioner Jacobs said determining mobile home ownership versus renters is
important information in order to be able to better plan going forward with the affordable
housing plan.
Audrey Spencer Horsley said gathering this information will require a more intensive
study which she hopes to accomplish at a later date.
Bonnie Hammersley said mobile homes are being reviewed through the tax office and
she hopes to have these figures for the May 10 work session.
Commissioner Jacobs referred to the fifth bullet point, on page 13 of document, and
asked if the term "white" could be clarified, as the statistic seems to be inaccurate.
Audrey Spencer Horsley said the households that were identified as white represent
the largest percentage of ownership in that group.
Commissioner Jacobs asked if this information could be provided for all ethnicities.
Commissioner Jacobs said Mebane is building much more housing than Orange
County, and it would be worth reviewing what kind of housing stock is in the Extraterritorial
Jurisdiction (ETJ) of Mebane.
Commissioner Price asked if in planning for these 1000 units, is it being considered that
some people living in mobile homes may want to move out into a stick built home.
Audrey Spencer Horsley said it is important to know what the property owner's intent is.
Commissioner Price said to include these types of people in the calculations.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
Robert Dowling thanked the Board of Commissioners for their long-standing
commitment to affordable housing. He commended Audrey Spencer Horsley for this strategic
plan.
He said the plan would benefit from better focus, perhaps reducing it to 6-8 priorities. He said
affordable housing is a priority for all the other local municipalities, and they have provided
funding for their own strategic plans. He said all assets should be leveraged together for
maximized impact. He said this effort is working against the tide and a group effort is
essential.
Robert Dowling said the plan should recognize projects that are already in place or
forthcoming.
Chair McKee said this plan is a beginning point and it is being reviewed and defined.
He said the Board committed to being on the same page as other governmental entities.
16
Dan Levine said he is active with the Orange County Affordable Housing Coalition. He
said he and others are here to thank the Board of County Commissioners for their commitment
to affordable housing in Orange County and the funding through a bond. He also commended
Audrey Spencer Horsley for this draft plan. He said they are here as a resource for Orange
County.
Doris Bailey thanked Audrey Spencer Horsley and the Board of County Commissioners
for realizing the need for affordable housing, especially for rental units.
Commissioner Price said there are a lot of community meetings upcoming, but none of
them are north of Highway 70. She asked if it would be possible to add a meeting in Cedar
Grove.
Audrey Spencer Horsley said yes.
Commissioner Pelissier referred to the issue of affordability, and said people are
looking at both housing and transportation combined being 45% of their household income.
She said as this plan moves forward, to consider transportation as a real part of the equation.
Commissioner Burroughs said she liked the set goals, and Audrey Spencer Horsley's
explanation of where the 1000 units are coming from. She appreciated the balance between
ownership and rental.
Commissioner Burroughs said mobile homes are a good source of affordable housing,
but there needs to be a clear emergency service plan for those in mobile home parks.
Audrey Spencer Horsley said locating a community center near such communities is
one option.
Commissioner Rich asked if a timeline for discussion of costs for the plan is known.
She said she would like to look at this in a broader time frame, such as 5 or 10 years.
Bonnie Hammersley said this plan is broad so the Board could prioritize the options,
knowing that all cannot be completed in one year. She said the plan over five years can be
determined and the funding then allocated to accomplish the plan.
Commissioner Rich said how does this plan work given the Board's commitment to
giving non-profits more funding, and asked if these funds will be in addition to this.
Bonnie Hammersley said this $1 million will be part of the operating budget this year,
per the BOCC direction. She said the County currently spends $800,000, and the $1 million
includes the additional $200,000 that the Board of County Commissioners approved last year.
Commissioner Rich asked if the extra $200,000 will be distributed in a particular way.
Bonnie Hammersley said those decisions are at the Board's discretion.
Commissioner Rich said additional outside agency funding would not be affected by
these funds.
Bonnie Hammersley said yes.
Commissioner Jacobs listed things he wanted more information on or wanted to
highlight:
• Orange County Housing Authority— he does not know their capabilities, and he would
like some information about Audrey Spencer Horsley's vision of this group's
participation;
• Incentives — break them out in detail, and show how more incentives can be provided;
• Units — he said would like to talk about the type of units, not just the quantity;
• The 120 acres on the Greene Tract was not mentioned;
• Urgent home repairs — he is glad this was included;
• Suggestion to have some standards for those units being funded by the County, such
as handicapped accessible; and
• A mobile home strategy is needed.
17
Audrey Spencer Horsley said the Greene Tract is included in large-scale development.
Audrey Spencer Horsley said the plan is a framework. She said when the BOCC
prioritizes the goals and strategies, the discussion can go deeper into many of these phases
and issues.
Commissioner Dorosin referred to the proposed mobile home strategy, and said the
impetus for what he brought forward came from talking to people living in these mobile homes
who are facing challenges. He said a strategy will not come to pass until there is a level of
engagement with the actual renters or homeowners.
Commissioner Dorosin said the issue is how to actualize the overall plan and what can
be accomplished based on needs, costs and maximizing expenses.
Commissioner Dorosin highlighted in the report the relationship of fair housing and
racial and ethnic diversity in the context of affordable housing.
Commissioner Dorosin said he sees the future of the Orange County Housing Authority
to be like the Chapel Hill Housing Authority: a government agency managing rental housing,
and a quasi-department of the County.
Commissioner Rich referred to Hispanic families and asked if documented residents,
undocumented residents, or both are being considered.
Commissioner Dorosin said these numbers probably include both documented and
undocumented residents and are most likely understated.
Commissioner Price said many departments in Orange County support both
documented and undocumented residents.
Commissioner Dorosin said housing funding may be different in this regard.
Chair McKee asked John Roberts to research this question and to bring an answer
back to the BOCC.
Chair McKee referred to the Eno Haven project and said whatever action is taken, it is
important not to isolate this community, and create a perceived low-income neighborhood. He
said he supports lifting people, not isolating them.
Chair McKee referred to goal number 5, funding available for housing rehabilitation
projects, and advocated an increase in this amount, as people like to stay in their homes.
Chair McKee said it is important for all numbers to align, across the County, Towns,
agencies, etc.
Audrey Spencer Horsley said the numbers may not perfectly align, but the overall
trends that the numbers show do align.
Commissioner Price said when it comes to this type of data, certain programs use just
census data and more local entities use different sources for data.
Audrey Spencer Horsley referred to the existing minimum housing standards and said
there is no way to enforce them. She encouraged the Board to think about this going forward,
as it is important.
5. Public Hearings
a. Orange County's Proposed 2016 Legislative Agenda
The Board considered:
1) Conducting a public hearing on Orange County's potential legislative items for the 2016
North Carolina General Assembly Session;
2) Closing the public hearing and review and discuss the Legislative Issues Work Group's
(LIWG) proposed 2016 legislative package and any other potential items for inclusion in
18
Orange County's legislative agenda package for the 2016 North Carolina General
Assembly Session;
3) Consider approval of one proposed legislative matters resolution on Statewide Issues;
4) Consider approval of one proposed legislative matters resolution on the Orange County
detention center property; and
5) Consider identifying three to five specific items from the entire package to highlight for
priority discussion at the April 18, 2016 breakfast meeting with Orange County's
legislative delegation.
Greg Wilder, Assistant to the County Manager for Legislative Affairs, reviewed the
following information:
BACKGROUND:
The North Carolina General Assembly "short session" will convene on Monday, April 25, 2016.
In past years the Board of Commissioners has appointed two Commissioners to serve on a
Legislative Issues Work Group (LIWG) to work with staff to develop a proposed legislative
package for the County. Based on the work of the LIWG, the BOCC has then reviewed and
approved packages of legislative items to pursue for the respective North Carolina General
Assembly sessions. Commissioners Penny Rich and Mia Burroughs are serving on the 2016
LIWG and have worked with staff on the proposed 2016 legislative package, which is
attached.
At its March 22, 2016 regular meeting, the Board approved an item on the Consent agenda
providing notice of this public hearing on Orange County's proposed 2016 legislative agenda.
Staff subsequently published the public hearing notice in three different local newspapers.
The notice of the public hearing was also posted on the County's website and on Facebook
and Twitter.
After conducting and closing the public hearing, the Board will likely want to review and
discuss during the public hearing. The Board will then need to consider both legislative
matters resolutions based on the public hearing and Board discussion.
The first proposed legislative matters resolution (Attachment 2) addresses a broad range of
statewide issues. The second legislative matters resolution (Attachment 3) concerns a request
for the introduction of a local bill for the Orange County detention center property.
Following consideration of the resolutions, and in preparation for its April 18, 2016 breakfast
meeting with Orange County's legislative delegation, the Board may want to consider
identifying three to five specific items from the entire package to highlight for priority
discussion.
The work of the Legislative Issues Work Group to this point is based on the current information
available for the 2016 General Assembly Session. The issues addressed by the Group may
evolve and change over the session and require additional attention by the Group and Board
of Commissioners. New issues may also arise necessitating additional review.
For reference purposes only, staff has provided the North Carolina Association of County
Commissioners (NCACC) 2015-16 Adopted Legislative Goals (Attachment 4) which were
adopted by NCACC in late January 2015. Some of the items in the legislative matters
19
resolution regarding statewide issues (Attachment 2) generally coincide with NCACC's goals
and those items are noted in the resolution accordingly.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
Jordan Tony lives in Carrboro and works in the recycling industry. He said there is a
push to overturn the ban on electronics recycling in landfills. He said he wants to voice his
opposition to this, for both environmental and economic reasons.
Jordan Tony said the other issue he would like to address is the pressure to restrict the
ability of local governments to assess recycling fees. He said the recycling market is volatile,
but the environmental benefits are not.
A motion was made by Commissioner Burroughs, seconded by Commissioner Price to
close the public hearing on Orange County's potential legislative items for the 2016 North
Carolina General Assembly Session.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
Discussion ensued by the Board on items they would like to bring forward to the
Legislative Delegation.
Commissioner Price suggested the following edits:
#3- expansion of Medicaid Program: she said the word "expand" is a trigger word in Raleigh,
and suggested using "increased access" instead.
#4- Mental Health: she referred to the mention of crisis beds, and recommended changing the
wording to intervention and treatment.
#5- Identify the Stepping-Up Initiative: if this item is chosen, it may be wise to identify this
initiative.
#10-Homestead Exemption: she referred to section "c", noting it may adversely affect poorer
counties.
Commissioner Dorosin suggested making #10 a local option.
Commissioner Price said this would be good, but she believes it is not permissible.
John Roberts said this area is restricted, because it is state legislated.
Commissioner Dorosin asked if the County could adopt an ordinance to give a tax
refund.
John Roberts said the County could adopt an ordinance to give a grant to low-income
people who meet certain criteria.
Commissioner Price said to delete section 10-c.
#25 - Commissioner Price suggested cautionary language with Department of Transportation
issues, as the County does not want to become responsible for maintaining roads.
#26 - Bona Fide Farm Use: she finds this potentially controversial, but referred to Chair
McKee's wisdom.
#17-Voter Registration and Voting: insert "and maintain" after support legislation to restore
Chair McKee said he does not have a problem with #26.
A motion was made by Commissioner Price seconded by Commissioner Pelissier to make
technical changes in resolution as expressed by Commissioner Price.
20
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
Commissioner Dorosin suggested the following edits:
#23 — add a call for the repeal of HB2
Commissioner Dorosin asked Commissioner Price about the North Carolina's
Association of County Commissioners (NCACC) response to HB2.
Commissioner Dorosin asked if NCACC could be pushed to adopt a position on this bill.
Commissioner Price said NCACC is against HB2, due to its restriction on county
authority.
Commissioner Dorosin asked if NCACC is coming out a statement calling for a repeal
of the bill.
Commissioner Price said she does not know, but will find out.
A motion was made by Commissioner Dorosin seconded by Commissioner Rich to make
technical changes in resolution as expressed above.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
Commissioner Jacobs suggested the following edits:
#15 — Electronics Recycling — add at the end of the item: "to oppose lifting restrictions on the
disposal of electronics in the landfill"
#22 — Broadband — add to the end: "to ensure community access to critical broadband services
and maintain level of service"
#26 — Bona Fide Farm use- delete last line "enhance public participation in the process". This
should be one of the top three priorities brought to their legislators, as it is extremely pertinent
to Orange County.
Bonnie Hammersley said if one person used a federal farm number for something that
may cause controversy that there should be a public process.
A motion was made by Commissioner Jacobs seconded Commissioner Rich to make the
technical changes proposed by Commissioner Jacobs.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
A motion was made by Commissioner Rich, seconded by Commissioner Pelissier to
approve the amended legislative matters resolution on Statewide Issues- Resolution 1-
attachment 2.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
5) Consider identifying three to five specific items from the entire package to
highlight for priority discussion at the April 18, 2016 breakfast meeting with
Orange County's legislative delegation.
The Board discussed and narrowed down the top five (5) priorities:
A motion was made by Commissioner Dorosin, seconded by Commissioner Jacobs to
approve the items as amended below to discuss with the Legislative Delegation on April 181h:
21
#26 - Bona Fide Farms - Commissioner Jacobs
#6 - Raise Age for Juvenile Jurisdiction in Criminal Court- Commissioner Burroughs
#22 - Broadband- Commissioner Rich and Commissioner Price
#23 -Pprotected classes - Commissioner Rich
#19 - Priority School Issues - Commissioner Rich
VOTE: Ayes, 6; Nays, 1 (Commissioner Price)
A motion was made by Commissioner Jacobs, seconded by Commissioner Dorosin to
approve the legislative matters resolution on the Orange County detention center property,
attachment three.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
7. Regular Agenda
a. New Slogan for Interstate NCDOT Welcome Sign
The Board will review slogans submitted for the Orange County Interstate Welcome
Sign campaign that were submitted by residents and consider choosing a slogan for the sign.
Bonnie Hammersley suggested moving Item 7a to another meeting, due to the late
hour.
A motion was made by Commissioner Jacobs, seconded by Commissioner Rich to
table Item 7a.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
b. Award of Environment &Agriculture Center Professional Services Agreement
The Board considered authorizing Orange County to enter into a Professional Services
Agreement with HH Architecture of Raleigh, NC for design services for the Environment &
Agriculture Center (EAC) capital project upon final review of the County Attorney; and
authorize the Chair to execute the Agreement and any subsequent design amendments for
contingent and unforeseen design requirements on behalf of the Board.
Jeff Thompson, Orange County Director of Asset Management Services, reviewed the
following information:
BACKGROUND: On September 10, 2015 Orange County received responses to its Request
for Qualifications ("RFQ") issued on August 18, 2015 for professional design services for the
Environment &Agriculture Center capital project in accordance with North Carolina
Procurement Law and the Federal Mini-Brooks Act governing the selection and procurement of
professional services firms. The facility is contemplated to be designed from April 2016
through the fall of 2016.
Staff reviewed responses from the nine (9) firms listed below. A staff panel consisting of
representatives from DEAPR, Economic Development, Cooperative Extension, Farm Services,
Soil and Water, the Commission for the Environment, and AMS evaluated the RFQ responses
and interviewed the highlighted*firms in October:
22
• Boomerang Design
• ESPA Architects and Planners
• Frank Harmon Architect
• HH Architecture*
• Hobbs Architects, PA*
• Innovative Design*
• MHA Works
• RND Architecture
• Smith Sinnett Architecture*
The staff panel selected HH Architecture to enter into fee negotiations with the County based
upon the firm's experience, portfolio of work, and the interview. Staff has negotiated an initial
basic services fee for design services (see Attachment 2, "HH Architecture Professional
Services Proposal") of $249,800, which includes significant stakeholder design input, an
extensive cost-benefit study comparing a major renovation to a deconstruction/new
construction process, and standard architectural and engineering design services.
Commissioner Pelissier said there was a reference in the scope to the Triangle J
Council of Governments (TJCOG) High Performance Building standards and the fact that they
are not being pursued. She asked if the high performance building standards could be
explained.
Jeff Thompson said the County has a policy to follow the Triangle J High Performance
Building standards, which look similar to the LEED standards, without the fees.
Commissioner Pelissier asked if there are going to be energy savings features.
Jeff Thompson said yes.
Commissioner Jacobs referred to the letter from HH Architecture about the scope and
asked if the local forestry operations office is the office currently on old 86.
David Stancil, Department of Environment, Agriculture, Parks and Recreation (DEAPR)
Director, said it is the County Forest Ranger who will be located in this building.
Commissioner Jacobs said he does not remember if the Board discussed this building,
the BOCC vision for it, and the costs.
Jeff Thompson said this was part of the Space Study Work Group, and the thrust of the
conversation is to make the existing services in that facility more efficient from a space
standpoint and bringing the building up to current standards.
Commissioner Jacobs said he was uncomfortable moving forward without further
discussion.
Bonnie Hammersley said this is going to be a long process, because one part of the
process is stakeholder involvement in the design portion. She said the Board will be involved
in that process.
Commissioner Jacobs said a huge mistake was made following this exact procedure
with the Southwest Branch Library. He said he would like the Board to have input first before
receiving input from other stakeholders.
Commissioner Dorosin said he thought the Board had a conversation about different
options, and concluded that all services should all remain co-located, with the building either
being rehabbed or making a new building on the same parcel of land. He suggested reviewing
the minutes for prior conversations.
Chair McKee said the item has been discussed several times and he does support
keeping the services in the same location. He said he does not support this capital project as
he feels the building has life left in it, with some minor renovations. He said there are many
23
other major projects that will need millions of dollars such as the schools and affordable
housing. He said the building may not be ideal, but it is not falling down and is not a valid
expenditure of $3 million. He said he also does not support $300,000 to pursue a plan as he
feels it is committing to an unnecessary project.
Commissioner Burroughs asked if the rationale for moving the project forward could be
explained by someone who served on the space committee.
Chair McKee said he served on that committee but did not speak out at that time as the
committee was not making decisions. He said Commissioner Price also served on the Space
Study committee.
Commissioner Price said the argument was made that the building is old and would
need renovations at some point, whether sooner or later. She said her greater concern was
that the services remain co-located. She said if a new building were proposed, she would
support having it on the same parcel of land.
Jeff Thompson said context is important, and a submission was made for a new HVAC
system and roof a few years ago. He said at that time, the submission was denied, and a new
location favored. He said he believes the current location is excellent, and he would support
maintaining it with either a new building or renovation of the current one.
Commissioner Burroughs said the two options are to spend $1 million now and get a
few more years of life or spend $3 million in the coming year and get a lot more years.
Jeff Thompson said the larger investment would offer greater energy efficiency as well
as greater space efficiency.
Commissioner Burroughs said she appreciates Chair McKee's points but would support
the larger investment.
Commissioner Jacobs agreed with Commissioner Burroughs and said this is going to
be an extensive cost benefit analysis which seems sensible. He said he must have missed a
portion of the discussions on this topic.
Commissioner Rich agreed with Commissioners Burroughs and Jacobs.
A motion was made by Commissioner Dorosin, seconded Commissioner Pelissier by for
the Board to:
1) Authorize Orange County to enter into a Professional Services Agreement with HH
Architecture of Raleigh, NC for the design services for the Environment &
Agriculture Center capital project upon final review of the County Attorney; and
2) Authorize the Chair to execute the initial Agreement and any subsequent design
amendments for contingent and unforeseen design requirements on behalf of the
Board.
VOTE: Ayes, 6; Nays, 1 (Chair McKee)
c. Recommendations for Employee Health Insurance and Other Benefits
The Board considered approving the Manager's recommendation to contract with
UnitedHealth Care regarding employee health and dental insurance and other employee
benefits effective July 1, 2016 through June 30, 2017.
Brenda Bartholomew, Human Resources Director, reviewed the following information:
BACKGROUND: The County provides employees with a comprehensive benefits plan,
including health, dental and life insurance, an employee assistance program, flexible
compensation plan and paid leave for permanent employees. Additionally, the County
24
contributes to the Local Governmental Employees' Retirement System and a supplemental
retirement plan.
Staff provided relevant information related to the recommendations of this abstract to the
Board of County Commissioners at the March 29, 2016 Work Session Meeting.
The County has been self-funded since January 1, 2014 for medical and pharmacy plans and
continues to be self-insured for the dental plan. The County transitioned from a twelve-month
calendar plan year to a twelve-month fiscal plan year in 2015 aligning with the County's fiscal
year. In February 2015, the Board of County Commissioners approved Gallagher Benefit
Services (GBS) as Broker of Record for the administration of benefit programs, which include
health, dental, vision, and other voluntary programs for employees and retirees.
Since the County's insurance plan is self-funded, the County uses a third party administrator
(TPA) to administer and manage claims. To take advantage of changing market dynamics and
services, the County periodically solicits proposals from companies offering TPA services. On
behalf of Orange County, Gallagher Benefit Services (GBS) conducted a competitive
solicitation for service consideration in FY2016-2017.
Currently, UnitedHealth Care (UHC) is the Third Party Administrator (TPA) for the County's
Medical Plan. GBS conducted a TPA Marketing Analysis. UHC, Meritain/Aetna, CIGNA and
BCBSNC provided quotes to GBS for review and recommendation by the Manager. With
careful consideration of all proposals, it is recommended to continue TPA services with
UnitedHealth Care.
The UHC renewal was negotiated from $41.50 per employee per month to $29.50 per
employee per month with a guaranteed fee for 2 years and a 3 percent rate cap for July 1,
2018's renewal; this equates to approximately $150,000 savings. The difference between the
top two competitors was $6,500 for annual fixed costs. The variable cost or the
utilization/claims costs were essentially identical between the top two competitors.
Wellness funding by the TPA was also considered and UHC was the most competitive. UHC
will fund $25,000 each year for the next three years. The closest competitor was $12,500
respectively.
Health Insurance
Gallagher Benefit Services (GBS) estimates no change in the FY2016-2017 health care
budget. In addition, no plan design changes are recommended. All covered benefits, co-pays,
co-insurance and deductibles are expected to remain the same. Administrative fees and
claims utilization are considered when setting premium equivalent rates. The administrative
fee savings of $150,000 represents approximately 1.29 percent of the current FY budget
($11.6 million). The administrative fee reduction is projected to be absorbed within claims
utilization; therefore the Manager is not recommending a change to the current year budget or
premium equivalents for FY2016-2017.
Dental and Vision Insurance
Delta Dental is the County's current dental provider and Community Eye Care provides the
County's vision plan. As part of three-year contract, the County will continue providing dental
coverage through Delta Dental. The current budget for dental insurance coverage is
approximately $320,000 annually. No increase in premium is recommended for FY 2016-
25
2017. In fact, the County will improve the dental plan design by removing diagnostic and
preventative services from the annual maximum of $1,200 of covered services to promote
preventative oral health care.
A motion was made by Commissioner Jacobs, seconded by Commissioner Price for the
Board to:
1. Approve the recommendation of contracting with UnitedHealth Care as the County's
Third Party Administrator for the County's health insurance programs;
2. Grant authority to the Manager to renew the Third Party Administrator contract with
UnitedHealth Care;
3. Grant authority to the Manager to contract with a Stop Loss Insurance Carrier as
appropriate;
4. Maintain current premium equivalent rates for FY2016-2017 health coverage
renewal;
5. Approve the recommended changes to the Dental program of removing diagnostic
and preventative services from the annual maximum; and
6. Approve aligning all dental services to a fiscal year verses a calendar year.
VOTE: Ayes, 6; Nays, 1 (Commissioner Rich)
Commissioner Rich commended staff's efforts but said she voted no because United
Healthcare is part of the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) and she believes
ALEC writes laws that are detrimental to the state of North Carolina.
8. Reports
NONE
9. County Manager's Report
Bonnie Hammersley reviewed the items below:
Projected April 7, 2016 Budget Work Session Items
BOCC Goals and Priorities Follow-up
Discussion on 2016-2021 Manager's Recommended Capital Investment Plan
Projected April 12, 2016 Regular Work Session Items
School Facilities Needs Discussion with School Systems
Bonnie Hammersley noted there is also an Information Item on the Southern Branch
Library in the Commissioners' packets.
10. County Attorney's Report
NONE
11. Appointments
a. Arts Commission —Appointment
The Board considered making an appointment to the Arts Commission.
26
A motion was made by Commissioner Rich, seconded by Commissioner Dorosin to
appoint the following to the Arts Commission:
Appointment to a first full term (position #15) At-Large for Delia Keefe expiring 03/31/2019.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
b. Chapel Hill Orange County Visitors Bureau —Appointment
The Board considered making an appointment to the Chapel Hill Orange County
Visitors Bureau.
A motion was made by Commissioner Rich, seconded by Commissioner Pelissier to
appoint the following to the Chapel Hill Orange County Visitor's Bureau:
Appointment to a partial term (position #3) Orange County/ Hillsborough Chamber of
Commerce for Allison Nichols-Clapper expiring 12/31/2017.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
12. Board Comments
Commissioner Burroughs said the Board of Health is considering a ban on e-cigarettes
in restaurants, bars and closed areas, and there will be a public comment period from April 10
to April 27. She said the Board of Health will vote on this item at their next meeting.
Commissioner Pelissier said she attended the Chamber's State of the Community
Report, and all of the data is available on line. She said after the presentation, there small
group discussions about economic development, K-12 education, housing, and transportation
occurred which were interesting.
Commissioner Rich said she spent a morning last week with Community Center
Director David Caldwell touring the community centers.
Commissioner Dorosin had no comments.
Commissioner Price said she attended the district meeting of the NCACC last week,
where she shared updates from Orange County regarding crisis intervention training. She said
many counties praised the efforts being made here.
Commissioner Price said there was a meeting in Cedar Grove last weekend where the
community center was discussed. She said the center was then toured and it is coming along
beautifully. She said the community is very excited.
Commissioner Jacobs asked if there is a target date for opening this community center.
Jeff Thompson said the target date for moving staff in is April 181h, with a soft opening
in early May, and a grand opening on June 171h
Commissioner Jacobs read an excerpt from the CEO of Pay Pal as to why the
company is not bringing 400 jobs to Charlotte.
Chair McKee encouraged the Board to accept the invitation to visit Emergency Services
and watch how special or extraordinary events are handled in Orange County.
13. Information Items
• March 22, 2016 BOCC Meeting Follow-up Actions List
• Tax Collector's Report— Numerical Analysis
• Tax Collector's Report— Measure of Enforced Collections
27
• Tax Assessor's Report— Releases/Refunds under$100
• Earth Evening Flyer
• Letter Regarding Youth Misdemeanor Diversion Program
• Memorandum with Southern Branch Library Update
• BOCC Chair Letter Regarding Petitions from March 22, 2016 Regular Meeting
14. Closed Session
NONE
15. Adjournment
A motion was made by Commissioner Rich, seconded by Commissioner Pelissier to
adjourn the meeting at 11:09 p.m.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
Donna Baker, Clerk to the Board
Earl McKee, Chair