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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 12-04-20171 APPROVED 1/23/2018 MINUTES BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING December 4, 2017 7:00 p.m. The Orange County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Monday, December 4, 2017 at 7:00 p.m. at the Whitted Building, in Hillsborough, N.C. COUNTY COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Chair Dorosin and Commissioners Mia Burroughs, Barry Jacobs, Earl McKee, Mark Marcoplos, 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 Dorosin called the meeting to order at 7:01 p.m. Board Organization a. Election of Chair and Vice-Chair CHAIR: VOTE: 7-0 (UNANIMOUS) for Mark Dorosin. VICE CHAIR: VOTE: 7-0 (UNANIMOUS) for Penny Rich b. Designation of Voting Delegate for all North Carolina Association of County Commissioners (NCACC) and National Association of Counties (NACo) Meetings for Calendar Year December 1, 2017-2018 Chair Dorosin said he sent an email to the Board about tabling this item until the boards and commissions are chosen in February. Commissioner Price said she checked with the NCACC, and this can be done at anytime. Chair Dorosin said Commissioner Price serves in both seats, and would continue to serve in those seats until then. Commissioner McKee said it was his understanding that the Board had decided to change the picking of boards and commissions to November, starting in 2018. He said given this change, he would prefer Commissioner Price remain in these positions, and make any changes in November 2018. A motion was made by Commissioner Rich, seconded by Commissioner Marcoplos to delay these appointments until February. VOTE: Ayes, 6; Nays, 1 (Commissioner McKee) 2 Appointments a. Manager A motion was made by Commissioner Price, seconded by Commissioner McKee to appoint Bonnie Hammersley as the County Manager. VOTE: UNANIMOUS b. Clerk to the Board A motion was made by Commissioner Price, seconded by Commissioner McKee to appoint Donna Baker as Clerk to the Board. VOTE: UNANIMOUS c. County Attorney A motion was made by Commissioner Price, seconded by Commissioner McKee to appoint John Roberts as County Attorney. VOTE: UNANIMOUS 1. Additions or Changes to the Agenda - White sheet: PowerPoint for Item 4-a - White sheet: PowerPoint for Item 4-b - White sheet: PowerPoint for Item 5-a - Green sheet: Summary of Home Funding Levels for Item 5-b - White sheet: PowerPoint for Item 6-a - Email from a resident in reference to Items Not on the Printed Agenda – Mountains to Sea Trail (MTS) - MTS petitions A motion was made by Commissioner Price, seconded by Commissioner Burroughs to add an item to the agenda under Item 3, in regards to appointing a Board of County Commissioners member to the nominating committee of Cardinal Innovations. VOTE: UNANIMOUS PUBLIC CHARGE Chair Dorosin dispensed with the reading of the Public Charge. 2. Public Comments a. Matters not on the Printed Agenda Allan Green reviewed the following email: 3 Chair Dorosin, Distinguished Commissioners: I am representing a group of local MST advocates which includes names familiar to you - Glen Greenstreet, Greg and Linda Smith, Terri Bruckner, Ed Johnson, Carl Shy, Luther Livermon and Karen Frey. We have a joint response to Dave Stancil's memo MST – Next Steps, dated October 27. As outlined in this memo, Orange County's "Next Steps" continue to be inadequate, incomplete, and do not reflect the prior clear direction of the BOCC to DEAPR staff to develop a plan for the completion of Section 11. The plan to route the MST from the Haw River to Occonochee Recreation Area has a long history. As far back as 2009 the OWASA board approved the concept of traversing the OWASA property. It was an element in our Orange County P&R Master Plan and the NC State Parks MST master plan. Two years ago, in response to our local group petition, Chair Dorosin and the BOCC requested that P&R staff submit a plan by Jan, 2016 for the Orange County Section of the MST that would connect the Haw River in Alamance county with the Eno River section in Durham county. Commissioner Dorosin actually proposed a list of specifics: • Identification of a route – lines on a map • Securing easements from OWASA and private landowners • Allocating / securing funding the purchase of easements • Working with partners for the use of their properties I had, and I believe you had, every expectation that at the next meeting you would be asked to approve an MST route connecting existing public lands with interim road routes creating a continuous trail from Saxapahaw to the Eno River. Instead you were presented with a "plan for a plan" involving community meetings, OWASA negotiations, trail surveys, and development of a process for obtaining easements. The timeline, which had been requested by Commissioner McKee at the previous meeting, had a July, 2016 completion date. I cannot say nothing has been accomplished. There is work underway on the 7-Mile Creek section of the trail and OC residents are better informed about the MST corridor. But as of tonight (a) no Orange County trail route has been presented for your approval; (b) No easements have been negotiated even though OWASA has (again) approved trail passage, and a number of property owners are ready to give easements (c) You have not been presented with a budget containing funds for MST easements, and (d) there is no work in progress with willing partners. During this same timeframe, Hillsborough has completed the MST section along the Riverwalk, and Alamance county has planned and is well on the way to completing the Haw River trail down to Saxapahaw. Terri Buckner, one of our following speakers, will present a petition for your approval to get Orange County back on track. Thank you, Allan Green Carl Shy said he here representing three landowners that want to donate easements to the MTS, all of which border the present Orange Water and Sewer Authority (OWASA) property. He said this offer is being extended at the north and south ends of the property, and it is hoped that this will be acted upon in the near future. Terri Buckner presented and reviewed the following MTS petition: 4 Mountains to the Sea Trail Petition To: Board of County Commissioners From: Local Friends of Mountains to the Sea Trail Date: December 4, 2017 RE: Petition for Mountains to the Sea Trail, Cane Creek area section Since 2009, the County and residents have been discussing an Orange County route for the Mountains to the Sea Trail (MST). On September 16, 2017, the Commissioners received a report from staff on the status of the planning process and took public comment. Since then, staff has followed up with a report outlining the status on 1) the physical route for the trail, 2) public communications about the trail, and 3) the acceptance of previously offered easements, We are here tonight to urge you to take the following actions: 1. Officially adopt the Orange County MST trail route from the Haw River Trail in Saxapahaw to the Pleasant Green/Eno River in eastern Orange County connector at your December 12, 2017 meeting. The route will include: a. Interim road sections, including the connection from Bradshaw Quarry Road, along Saxapahaw-Bethlehem Road to the Haw River Trail until a land route can be formalized. The Alamance County Parks staff supports this route as they work to complete the land acquisition needed to connect the current Haw River Trail section to Morrow Mill Road. b. OWASA property c. Three currently offered easements on private land, with others currently being considered and/or negotiated. 2. Before the end of February 2018, officially accept the three (or more) easements being offered within the officially designated route. 3. By the end of March 2018, formally establish a relationship between Orange County and the Friends of the MST which will include: a. Trail building b. Advocacy Chair Dorosin said he would like more information back from staff about this petition. He asked David Stancil, Department of the Environment, Agriculture, Parks and Recreation (DEAPR) Director, and Bonnie Hammersley to bring this information back. Commissioner Jacobs asked if this information could be brought back by December 12th Commissioner Price said asked if staff would engage the property owners who are willing to donate easements. b. Matters on the Printed Agenda (These matters will be considered when the Board addresses that item on the agenda below.) 3. Announcements, Petitions and Comments by Board Members 5 Commissioner Price said she attended a re-entry conference last week, and she was unaware that Orange County has a program called COORE: Coordinated Opioid Overdose Reduction Effort. She applauded this effort. Commissioner Price said she was selected to attend the Stepping Up Initiative Peer Exchange, in Phoenix, AZ. She said she would share this information with Caitlin Fenhagen, Criminal Justice Resource Director. Commissioner McKee had no comments. Commissioner Jacobs said Commissioner Hutchinson from Wake County has organized a meeting next week about the local agricultural economy, and Orange County will attend with the goal of creating partnerships with other entities. Commissioner Jacobs saluted Chair Dorosin in that he has had to endure an ideological attack on his employment, and he appreciated the work that he has done and will do. He said it is not easy to be the subject of abuse from higher authorities. Commissioner Rich thanked staff for organizing two farm breakfasts in the past 2 weeks. Commissioner Rich said there was a North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) meeting last week, and there are some changes coming about: intersection of routes 70/86 will have a right hand turn lane, and item 8-f on the consent agenda shows another change. Commissioner Rich said she attended a Juvenile Crime Prevention Council (JCPC) meeting this past week, and the intake of children has gone up recently. She said intake typically rises at this time of year. Commissioner Rich said she and staff meet regularly about Broadband and Information Technology, and there will hopefully be an update to the Board soon. Commissioner Burroughs referred to the Legislative Issues Work Group (LIWG), and said it will be important to put forth the dire issue of more capital funds for schools. Commissioner Marcoplos had no comments. Chair Dorosin said it is time to appoint a Commissioner to the Cardinal Innovations Nominating Committee. He said this committee that will nominate people to serve on the Cardinal Oversight Board. He said residents can serve on this board as well. A motion was made by Commissioner McKee, seconded by Commissioner Rich to appoint Commissioner Price to the Cardinal Innovations Nominating Committee since she has been their representative on their local board. VOTE: UNANIMOUS Chair Dorosin said he attended a meeting today with the mayors of Chapel Hill, Carrboro and their staffs about the Greene Tract, and they are pushing forward to reschedule the Assemblies of Governments (AOG) meeting in January or February. Chair Dorosin thanked the Board of County Commissioners for re-electing him as Chair, and Commissioner Jacobs for his kind words, and the Board as a whole, through this trying time. 4. Proclamations/ Resolutions/ Special Presentations a. Voluntary and Enhanced Agricultural District Designation: Multiple Farms The Board considered voting to certify applications from seven (7) landowners/farms to certify qualifying farmland within the Caldwell, Cedar Grove, Cane Creek/Buckhorn, and Schley/Eno Voluntary Agricultural Districts; and enroll and/or update ownership for the lands in 6 the Orange County Farmland Preservation Voluntary and Enhanced Voluntary Agricultural District programs. Gail Hughes, Soil Conservationist, made the following PowerPoint presentation: Orange County Voluntary Farmland Preservation Program Voluntary and Enhanced Voluntary Agricultural District Program Orange County Board of Commissions Meeting December 4, 2017 Orange County VAD/EVAD Program Benefits of Agricultural Districts  Voluntary Agricultural District (VAD) is a 10 year commitment for farm to be in active farm production, but the landowner can withdraw from the VAD at any time, for any reason, with a 30 day notification to the Agri. Preservation Board.  Enhanced Voluntary Agricultural District (EVAD) is an irrevocable 10 year commitment to be in active farm production, therefore the “enhanced” qualifies farm for up to 90% cost share rates and a priority for state and federal grants funds. Benefits include: (listing a few)  Makes public more aware of the local agricultural and its vital role in the economics of the county;  Recorded notice of agricultural district property is recorded at County Land Records office;  Land search on all properties within a ½ mile radius has notification of the agricultural status, therefore, the agricultural landowner has increased protection from nuisance lawsuits.  Agricultural Preservation Board can request 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)  VAD District signs are placed on farms, for public to know location of VAD/EVAD farms Yvonne Crabtree and Gary Crabtree -Crabtree Farm • VAD – 156.51 acres – Cedar Grove Agricultural District; 2 parcels of land • Grain and hay crops, pastureland, beef cattle, • Managed woodland Mike and Shelia Hall, and Howard Hall – Hall Farm, Inc. • VAD – 156.35 acres – Caldwell Agricultural District; 3 parcels of land • Tobacco, soybeans, grain crops, hay land • Managed woodland Ken Dawson and Elizabeth Outlaw- Maple Spring Gardens • VAD – 80.04 acres- Cedar Grove Agricultural District; 2 parcels of land • Fruit and vegetable crops, herbs, and flowers 7 Geoffrey and Jane Gledhill • EVAD – 29.61 acres – Cedar Grove Agricultural District; 1 parcel of land • Managed woodland/forestry acres • Permanent Conservation Easement with Orange County Andy and Debra Gates • VAD- 111.01 acres – Caldwell Agricultural District – 2 parcels of land • Soybeans, grain crops, hay land, pastureland and beef cattle • Managed woodland Robert Kirk Jr. and Michael Kirk – Cane Creek Farms • VAD- 84.09 acres – Cane Creek/Buckhorn Agricultural District; 2 parcels of land • Vegetables, livestock and pasture land • Managed woodland Nels and Nancy Anderson – Holden Roberts Farm • Update acres: increase of 1.4 acres (along road frontage) • VAD - Schley/Eno Agriculture District –1 parcels • In increase of 1.44 acres to bring total parcel to 59.86 acres. • Hay crops; managed woodland • Change: All acres to remain in VAD program at this time CORRECTED RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board certify the seven (7) farm properties noted above totaling 588* 589 acres* (VAD) and 31 30 acres* (EVAD), in addition to the 58.42 acres of VAD to EVAD designation change as denoted in the attached documentation, as qualifying farmland; designate the properties as a Voluntary or Enhanced Voluntary Agricultural District farm within the Caldwell, Cane Creek/Buckhorn, Schley/Eno, and Cedar Grove 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 93 farms totaling 10,231 10,232 acres* in the VAD and 2,323 2,322 acres* in the EVAD, for a total of 12,554 acres (rounded) in the program. Orange County Voluntary and Enhanced Voluntary Agricultural Program Requesting approval from Commissioners to accept seven (7) farms into the program. 589 acres* in the Voluntary Agricultural District 30 acres* in the Enhanced Voluntary Agricultural District Total of acres in both programs= 619 acres* * = rounded acres A motion was made by Commissioner McKee, seconded by Commissioner Price for the Board to: - certify the seven (7) farm properties noted above totaling 589 acres* (VAD) and 30 acres* (EVAD), as qualifying farmland; 8 - designate the properties as a Voluntary or Enhanced Voluntary Agricultural District farm within the Caldwell, Cane Creek/Buckhorn, Schley/Eno, and Cedar Grove Voluntary Agricultural Districts; - and enroll the lands in the Orange County Voluntary Agricultural District (VAD) and the Enhanced Voluntary Agricultural District (EVAD) programs. Requesting approval from Commissioners to accept seven (7) farms into the program. 589 acres* in the Voluntary Agricultural District 30 acres* in the Enhanced Voluntary Agricultural District Total of acres in both programs= 619 acres* * = rounded acres VOTE: UNANIMOUS b. Fire Chief’s Association Update The Board received the annual Fire Chiefs Association update, which addressed the topics of communications, volunteers, training needs, and relationship with Durham Technical Community College. Susanna Williams, Carrboro Fire Chief and President of the Fire Chief’s Association, made the following PowerPoint presentation: Fire Chiefs’ Association 2017 Orange County Board of County Commissioners Presentation Fire Rescue Departments’ Activities Fire rescue department activities FY 16-17 - graph Fire rescue department activities FY 16-17 - graph Training Fire rescue department activities FY 16-17 - graph Training – need continued support • Training conducted in-house -limited o Lack of facilities & equipment • Send personnel out of county o Impacts: ▪ Budgets ▪ Crew integrity ▪ Equipment familiarization • Joint Training Center Committee – RFP Consultant o Created subcommittee – research grants / regional partners o Thank you Commissioners Burroughs & McKee • Durham Technical Community College o Relationship progress o Continue to keep the lines of communication open o Slightly more responsive o No local fire academy 9 ▪ Impacts ability to recruit for diversity ▪ High School programs are direct delivery o No local paramedic academy ▪ Research partnering with Durham County Emergency Response Emergency Incidents - graph Emergency Medical Incidents - graph Emergency Medical Incidents - Response times - graph Value Collaboration = Value • Automatic Aid agreement in Orange County • Risk Assessment Subcommittee – Resiliency planning • Property Value Saved $15,784,023,512.00 ($1,054,166) • Value o Citizen trust – live in community o Guide EMS to scene o Know constituent history • Provide Emergency Medical Services in collaboration with OC Emergency Services • Quality of life for citizens & visitors EMS success story - video Radio Communications Radio Communication project • Support Federal Engineering Project • Current study meets the needs of the Fire Rescue Services o Radio coverage county wide o Signal penetration in buildings o Paging system o Adding other organizations (transportation, school system, public works, etc.) Commissioner McKee asked if more information could be given regarding co-location. Kim Woodward said co-location exists when fire personnel are housed with EMS medics and an ambulance in the same building. She said this currently exists at both Carrboro stations, Orange Grove Fire Department, Orange Rural Fire Department #2, and Eno Fire District is currently working on the co-location process. Commissioner McKee said co-location was attempted unsuccessfully about 20-25 years ago, and this time co-location seems to be far more successful. Commissioner McKee commended the fire departments for working on reducing their fire ratings. Commissioner Marcoplos referenced the local fire academy issue, and asked if the time commitment, as well as the barriers, to having an academy could be identified. 10 Chief Williams said a local academy would allow the opportunity for local and safe training. She said this could be done during 40 hours a week over 3-4 months. She said there are also non-traditional training options, such as nights and weekends, which would take about a year. She said the lack of a training facility is the largest barrier. She said any firefighter must have live fire training as part of their education, and the lack of a local burn room is a barrier. She said sometimes houses are donated to be used for this training, but Carrboro and Chapel Hill are both too densely populated for such an option. She said an additional barrier is the lack of proper equipment. Commissioner Marcoplos asked how would a training center be funded. Chief Williams said certification classes are paid for by the Community College system in North Carolina, thus the cost to the community would be the actual building, and its upkeep and maintenance. She said instruction and equipment would be provided by the local community college. Chair Dorosin asked Chief Williams what she would say if someone said they wanted to become a firefighter, Chief William said one can go Monday to Friday, 8-5 through the community college, such as Durham Tech or Alamance Community College. She said attendees need to be associated with a local fire department before the community colleges will take them, and she encourages interested persons to pursue volunteer fire companies. Commissioner Price gave kudos to all Emergency Services and Fire Departments’ personnel. Commissioner Price asked if the property value could be clarified. Chief Williams said the total property value is $16 billion, but the $15 billion referenced in the PowerPoint, was the subtraction of a $1 million loss in 2017, from structure fires, from the $16 million. Commissioner Price said she is the BOCC representative on the Durham Tech Board of Trustees, and if there is anything she or the Board can do to improve the relationship, to let her know. Chair Dorosin clarified that Durham Tech needs to take action, but a training facility is also necessary. Commissioner Price said yes, and Durham Tech is currently looking at capital campaigns. Each of the attendees from the volunteer fire departments, Emergency Services, and Town fire departments were recognized. c. Proclamation Recognizing December 6, 2017 as Abolition Day The Board considered voting to approve a proclamation recognizing December 6, 2017 as Abolition Day in Orange County and authorizing the Chair to sign. BACKGROUND: On the sixth day of December, 1865, the 13th Amendment to the United States Constitution was ratified, officially abolishing slavery in the entire United States. This historic piece of legislation occurred almost three years after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation which freed only those people held in slavery in the rebelling states. The 13th Amendment marked the beginning of attempts to provide protections and liberties to formerly enslaved persons, primarily the sons and daughters of Africa as well as Indigenous Peoples. Commissioner Price introduced the item. 11 James Williams, former public defender and the Chair of the Bicentennial Committee, made comments. Commissioner Price read the proclamation: ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING DECEMBER 6, 2017 AS ABOLITION DAY WHEREAS, on the sixth day of December, 1865, the 13th Amendment to the United States Constitution was ratified, officially abolishing slavery in the entire United States; and WHEREAS, this historic piece of legislation occurred almost three years after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation which freed only those people held in slavery in the rebelling states; and WHEREAS, Amendment XIII. Section 1 of the United States Constitution reads: “Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction”; and WHEREAS, the 13th Amendment marked the beginning of attempts to provide protections and liberties to formerly enslaved persons, primarily the sons and daughters of Africa as well as Indigenous Peoples; and WHEREAS, the journey to freedom has been and continues to be a protracted and arduous journey whereupon women, men and children have endured violence and pain; and WHEREAS, despite the advancements made throughout the past 152 years toward liberation and equity, people still are fighting against policies and practices intended to disenfranchise them and divest them of their humanity, citizenship and dignity; and WHEREAS, historically marginalized and oppressed people nevertheless remain encouraged and emboldened by the spirit of their ancestors to continue the march for the full measure of freedom that they believe they shall achieve one day; NOW, THEREFORE, we, the Orange County Board of Commissioners, do hereby proclaim that December 6, 2017 shall be recognized as ABOLITION DAY throughout the County, and urge all residents to support and engage in the ongoing struggle to ensure freedom and justice for all of humanity…locally, nationally and globally. This the 4th day of December 2017. A motion was made by Commissioner Price, seconded by Commissioner Jacobs for the Board to approve and authorize the Chair to sign the Proclamation Recognizing December 6, 2017 as Abolition Day in Orange County. 12 VOTE: UNANIMOUS Commissioner McKee asked if there is an effort being made to make this a national holiday. James Williams said yes, but it will take additional steps by local entities to push this forward to the next level. Commissioner McKee asked if the Board could receive updates regarding this topic. Commissioner Price said the Fredrick Douglas Committee is planning events for next year for the bicentennial celebration. d. Resolution of Support for a Referendum on the Expansion of Medicaid in North Carolina The Board considered voting to approve a Resolution of Support for a Referendum on the Expansion of Medicaid in North Carolina. Commissioner Rich reviewed the background information. BACKGROUND: At its November 20, 2017 regular meeting, the Board heard a petition requesting that the Board consider a resolution supporting a statewide referendum on the expansion of Medicaid. The State of Maine recently conducted a referendum on this topic. The attached draft resolution recommends the following referendum question - “Shall the State of North Carolina expand Medicaid to provide healthcare coverage for qualified adults under age 65 with incomes at or below 138% of the federal poverty level?” The table below details income figures based on the 138% federal poverty level (FPL) referenced in the proposed referendum question. Commissioner Rich read the resolution: RESOLUTION OF SUPPORT FOR A REFERENDUM ON THE EXPANSION OF MEDICAID IN NORTH CAROLINA WHEREAS, pursuant to the terms of the Affordable Care Act and rulings by the United States Supreme Court the states may elect to expand Medicaid coverage to provide healthcare coverage to low income residents in a coverage gap who don’t otherwise qualify for Affordable Care Act subsidies or traditional Medicaid; and WHEREAS, to date, North Carolina has declined to join the majority of states in expanding Medicaid eligibility for low income residents; and WHEREAS, according to a Kaiser Family Foundation issue brief authored by Rachel Garfield and Anthony Damico more than 200,000 low income North Carolinians, as of 2016, who are in the coverage gap and cannot obtain healthcare would be eligible for coverage if Medicaid were expanded in the state; and WHEREAS, the majority of those North Carolinians in the coverage gap consist of people from working poor families meaning “either they or a family member is employed but still living below the poverty line;” and WHEREAS, it is incumbent upon the North Carolina General Assembly ensure adequate access to healthcare exists for all North Carolinians, not just those who can afford to pay for it; 13 NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Commissioners of Orange County, North Carolina does hereby endorse the expansion of Medicaid in North Carolina; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Commissioners of Orange County, North Carolina requests the North Carolina General Assembly submit via referendum to the voters of North Carolina the question, “Shall the State of North Carolina expand Medicaid to provide healthcare coverage for qualified adults under age 65 with incomes at or below 138% of the federal poverty level?” Adopted this the 4th day of December, 2017. A motion was made by Commissioner Rich, seconded by Commissioner Price to approve the Resolution of Support for a Referendum on the Expansion of Medicaid in North Carolina. Commissioner Rich said it is important to note that, due to the lack of expansion of Medicaid, North Carolina has forgone $10.2 billion in federal funds, and over the next ten years will forgo another $13 billion if changes are not made. VOTE: UNANIMOUS Commissioner Rich asked if the Clerk to the Board would distribute this proclamation to all counties. 5. Public Hearings a. Joint Public Hearing with the Historic Preservation Commission Regarding the Proposed Designation of the Dr. Arch Jordan House in the Caldwell Community as an Orange County Local Historic Landmark The Board conducted a joint public hearing with the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) to receive public comment on the application and proposed ordinance to designate the Dr. Arch Jordan House as a Local Historic Landmark. Historic Preservation Commission Members in attendance for this joint public hearing: • Thomas Loter • Stephen Peck • Dr. Robert Ireland • Art Menius • Todd Dickinson Peter Sandbeck, Cultural Resources Coordinator, reviewed the background information, and introduced the HPC members in attendance. BACKGROUND: This is a routine joint public hearing required by state enabling legislation and the county’s Historic Preservation Ordinance. Following this joint public hearing, the BOCC and the HPC will take into consideration public comments, if any. The HPC may refer the ordinance back to the Board of Commissioners for consideration and adoption at the next BOCC meeting on December 12, 2017. 14 In 1991, the BOCC adopted the “Ordinance Creating the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) of Orange County”, also referred to as the “Historic Preservation Ordinance”. In 1997, the BOCC adopted the Local Landmark Program, a voluntary program allowing the HPC to designate properties of local historic and/or architectural significance, as authorized by NC General Statute 160A-400.1-400.14. One of the HPC’s duties is to recommend properties to the BOCC for local landmark designation. Properties must meet a high standard of historic and/or architectural significance to be designated as a landmark. The higher standard is appropriate since landmark property owners are eligible for a 50 percent property tax deferral as provided by state law, as long as the property retains its historic character. The intent of this tax treatment is to provide a modest benefit for owners who face high costs to maintain, paint and repair their historic buildings. The historic landmark designation process involves several steps culminating with the adoption of an ordinance by the BOCC for each individual landmark. The HPC approved a motion at its September 27, 2017 meeting stating that the Dr. Arch Jordan House possesses special historical and architectural significance and is worthy of landmark designation. The application materials (Attachments 1 and 2) were then submitted to the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) for review and comment as required by state law. The SHPO provided a positive review (Attachment 4). The next step is for the HPC to hold a joint public hearing with the BOCC, as required by the Historic Preservation Ordinance. Peter Sandbeck made a PowerPoint presentation, which including photographs only. A motion was made by Commissioner McKee, seconded by Commissioner Price to open the public hearing. VOTE: UNANIMOUS PUBLIC COMMENT: NONE Chair Dorosin asked if there would be any signage. Peter Sandbeck said some counties have adopted some small signage, and the HPC is looking into this for Orange County. Chair Dorosin asked if there is a central location where all of these properties are listed for the public. Peter Sandbeck said this information can be put on the Orange County website. Commissioner Jacobs thanked the HPC and Peter Sandbeck for their diligence and proactivity in this area. Commissioner Price said she is very glad to see this come to fruition. HPC Chair Todd Dickinson said he is here to plug the HPC’s proposed book that will include this information, and possibly a stand-alone website. Commissioner Jacobs asked if a publication date can be agreed upon, because this has been going on for 25 years. Commissioner Jacobs referred to the signage, and said Moorefields had the same conversation with Orange County, but to no fruition. John Roberts said this is a joint public hearing with the HPC, and there is a quorum present. 15 A motion was made by Commissioner Price, seconded by Commissioner Jacobs to close the public hearing. VOTE: UNANIMOUS Chair Dorosin said the HPC will return a recommendation, and to flag the signage issue. HPC members left at 8:42 p.m. b. Orange County Consolidated Plan – Annual Action Plan Needs Assessment Public Hearing The Board received comments from the public regarding the housing and non-housing needs to be included in the Action Plan Update for 2018-2019 (the fourth year of the five year Plan) as it relates to the Consolidated Housing Plan for Housing and Community Development Programs in Orange County. Sherrill Hampton, Department of Housing, Humans Rights and Community Development Director, presented the following information, as well as additional information at the Commissioners’ places. BACKGROUND: In May 2015, a Consolidated Plan for Housing and Community Development Programs in Orange County was developed and approved by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Orange County Board of County Commissioners. This document details the housing needs of very low, low and moderate income individuals, families and special population groups in addition to outlining the strategies and plans for addressing those needs. The Executive Summary of the 2015-2020 Consolidated Plan is attached in the abstract. Each year, local communities are required to reassess the needs of the community. Renee Holmes, Housing Program Coordinator, reviewed information about this program. This public hearing provides an opportunity for the public, public agencies and other interested parties to provide input into the Annual Action Plan Update. In addition, the public may comment on proposed uses of an estimated $394,656 in 2018-2019 funds. The amount listed is only an estimate of the funds to be received and available for use. Information regarding actual Congressional allocation for the HOME Program is not available at this time. Once the Federal 1 budget has been approved, HUD will make the determination of the final award amount. 2018- 2019 will be the fourth year of the Five Year Consolidated Plan. Eligible HOME Program activities include: acquisition, new construction, housing rehabilitation, rental assistance and down payment assistance. The 2018 Annual Action Plan will be submitted to HUD on or about May 31, 2018 after approval by the HOME Consortium members. Sherrill Hampton said the green sheet at the Commissioners’ places is the updated maps for this information. A motion was made by Commissioner Burroughs, seconded by Commissioner McKee to open the public hearing. VOTE: UNANIMOUS 16 Chair Dorosin referred to the maps at the Commissioners’ places, and said he would like some zoomed in versions of some of these maps; specifically more detailed information on the following ones: percent minority by census track; median household income; the more anomalous parcels, in order to know exactly where they are. Chair Dorosin asked if these maps could be emailed to the Board. PUBLIC COMMENT: Robert Dowling, Community Home Trust Director, thanked the Board of County Commissioners for its continued support of affordable housing. He said he hopes that the next plan in 2020 will better reflect the collaborative efforts in Orange County, and will be more focused on how to spend funds. He thanked Orange County staff for their work with the Community Home Trust (CHT). He also wanted to thank Bonnie Hammersley and Annette Moore for their help with the Landings at Winmore; and wanted to acknowledge the efforts of Sherrill Hampton, noting her attitude is to help CHT, while also holding them accountable. Delores Bailey is the Executive Director of EmPOWERment, Inc. She thanked the BOCC for its continued support of affordable housing. She said EmPOWERment was part of the creation of the consolidated plan, and her takeaway from this hard work is that there is a tremendous need for affordable rentals for those residents and employees of Orange County living at the low income and poverty levels. She said EmPOWERment is committed to increasing the amount of rental properties for these populations, and provided an update on its current efforts. Keith Cook said he is a member of the Affordable Housing Advisory Board (AHAB), which is moving too slowly, as there is still not enough money for affordable apartments. He said he has heard that Dobbins Hill is up for sale, and is a property that should be protected for affordable usage. Commissioner McKee said the reduction in funding is concerning (down almost 60%), and asked if there is any indication of future funding. Sherrill Hampton said the decline seems to be a continuing trend, and she said HOME did not fare well is the congressional budget. Commissioner Price said at one point the Federal government was going to totally cut all of the housing funding, but this action was prevented and it remains at level funding. She said it is essential that any funds received be used, so that the need is clearly demonstrated. Commissioner Jacobs said the funding decline is based on political philosophy that being poor is a choice, and that the government should not reward this choice. Commissioner Jacobs asked if Sherrill Hampton was involved with Dobbins Hill. Sherrill Hampton said she is looking into this property, and will provide updated information to the Manager as soon as possible. Commissioner Jacobs asked if the report could include the County’s history of involvement with this property. Commissioner Marcoplos said he would like information on any other projects that may be available, or at risk of being bought and no longer used for affordable housing. Sherrill Hampton said she has been working with the Manager and the Deputy Manager on a restructured framework for her department, which will lay out the funding provided by the BOCC, based on the priorities from the Consolidated Plan as well as the BOCC. She said this will come back to the BOCC in February. A motion was made by Commissioner Burroughs, seconded by Commissioner Rich to close the public hearing. 17 VOTE: UNANIMOUS Commissioner Jacobs suggested looking at the Eno Haven property as well. 6. Regular Agenda a. Department of Human Rights and Relations The Board considered voting to approve the County Manager’s recommendation to separate the Division of Human Rights and Relations from the current Department of Housing, Human Rights and Community Development into a separate Department referred to as the Human Rights and Relations (HRR). BACKGROUND: After passage of the Civil Rights Ordinance in 1994, the Board of County Commissioners (the “Board”) authorized the creation of the Department of Human Rights and Relations on December 20, 1994. The core functions of the Department of Human Rights and Relations included: • Enforcement of the Orange County Civil Rights Ordinance; • Administration of the Housing and Urban Development Fair Housing Assistance Program Agreement (“FHAP”) ; • Education, Outreach and Training on rights under the Civil Rights Ordinance; • Staffing the Human Relations Commission and their education and outreach activities; and • Coordinating County efforts to eliminate or reduce limited English proficiency as a barrier to accessing or understanding Orange County government services, program or benefits. The Board approved changing the Department to the Office of Human Rights and Relation within the County Manager’s Office on March 6, 2008. To improve efficiency and service delivery to residents, the County Manager subsequently recommended merging the Office of Human Rights and Relations with the Department of Housing and Community Development. On February 16, 2010 the Board approved merging the Office of Human Rights and Relations into the Housing and Community Development Department (the Commission for Women was moved to a non-profit agency). During the last FHAP performance period (July 1, 2016-June 30, 2017) eight (8) Fair Housing cases were closed. Currently, there are twelve (12) cases under investigation. The dramatic rise in hate crimes motivated by intolerance, racism, sexism and xenophobia over the last several years has demonstrated the need for increased focus on improving interpersonal communications and human relations. In addition, there is also a need to not only effectively enforce the civil rights of residents but to also educate them on their rights and responsibilities under the law. The separation of the division of Human Rights and Relations from Housing and Community Development would allow the County to focus on civil and human rights training, education, outreach and enforcement. In addition to the core functions the department previously provided, it would also include a compliance function. The director of the department would be designated as the Civil Rights Compliance Officer for the County. The Civil Rights Compliance Officer would coordinate the County’s efforts to comply with its civil rights obligations under federal and 18 state law. The proposed Department would be staffed by a director, a civil rights specialist, an intake specialist and a Limited English Proficiency Specialist/Outreach Coordinator. It is proposed that Annette Moore would have a dual role (50/50) as both the Department Director and a Staff Attorney. The intake specialist will provide administrative support to Human Rights and Relations as well as the County Attorney’s Off ice. The duties of the staff attorney will be spread among the three staff attorneys in the County Attorney’s Office. Staff in the Human Rights and Relations division now housed in the Whitted Building would be relocated to office space in the Link Government Services Center. Human Relations Commission Bylaw Changes The County Manager met with the Human Relations Commission to inform them of the proposed changes. The Bylaws of the Human Relations Commission will require minor changes to facilitate realignment of the functions of Human Rights and Relations; no substantive changes are being proposed. Bonnie Hammersley made the following PowerPoint presentation: DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RIGHTS AND RELATIONS PURPOSE To consider approving the recommendation to separate the Division of Human Rights and Relations from the current Department of Housing, Human Rights and Community Development into a separate Department referred to as the Human Rights and Relations. • After passage of the Civil Rights Ordinance in 1994, the Board of County Commissioners (the "Board") authorized the creation of the Department of Human Rights and Relations on December 20, 1994. • On February 16, 2010 the Board approved merging the Office of Human Rights and Relations into the Housing and Community Development • In June 2017, HUD conducted an onsite performance assessment of the County’s FHAP program. Specific concerns related to three areas: the quality and timeliness of complaint processing; financial management of the program; and the organizational structure and reoccurring management and staffing changes. As a result of HUD’s concerns Orange County was placed on a 90-day Performance Improvement Plan (“PIP”), beginning November 1, 2017 ending January 31, 2018. • The re-creation of the Department of Human Rights and Relations is in response to the Performance Improvement Plan. The core functions of the Department of Human Rights and Relations include: • Enforcement of the Orange County Civil Rights Ordinance; • Administration of the Housing and Urban Development Fair Housing Assistance Program Agreement ("FHAP"): • Education, Outreach and Training on rights under the Civil Rights Ordinance; • Staffing the Human Relations Commission and their education and outreach activities; • Coordinating County efforts to eliminate or reduce limited English proficiency as a barrier to access or understand Orange County government services, program or benefits 19 • In addition to the core functions the department previously provided, the director of the department would be designated as the Civil Rights Compliance Officer for the County. • The Civil Rights Compliance Officer would coordinate the County's efforts to comply with its civil rights obligations under federal and state law. • Annette Moore, who has considerable experience in this area, will assume leadership of the new department and continue as a Staff Attorney on a part-time basis. • In addition, the Department staffing model will be maintained with a civil rights specialist, an intake specialist and a Limited English Proficiency Specialist/ Outreach Coordinator. FINANCIAL IMPACT • There is currently a budget from the general fund in addition to FHAP funds assigned to the Human Rights Division. • The department director's salary and benefits would be evenly divided between the County Attorney's Office and the Department of Human Rights and Relations. • There is an increased cost of approximately $46,000 to maintain capacity in the County Attorney’s office and compensation for additional responsibilities. • A budget amendment with the changes will be presented for your consideration at the December 12th meeting for Board consideration. RECOMMENDATION 1) Approve the new organizational structure creating the Department of Human Rights and Relations as a separate independent department; 2) Change the name of the Department of Housing Human Rights and Community Development to the Department of Housing and Community Development; 3) Authorize the Director of Human Rights and Relations to enforce the Civil Rights Ordinance; 4) Amend the Bylaws of the Human Relations Commission to reflect the changes created by the reorganization as provided in Attachment 2; and 5) Make these changes effective December 5, 2017. Chair Dorosin asked if the core functions of HRR will be the enforcement of the Civil Rights Ordinance, which currently only covers the Fair Housing Act. Annette Moore said the Civil Rights Ordinance covers civil rights, employment, and public accommodations. She said the County can no longer do employment, and the public accommodations are shaky, and generally only the fair housing portion is enforceable. Chair Dorosin asked John Roberts if the ordinance still says employment, and if it does should the BOCC consider its removal. John Roberts said yes, the ordinance does still say employment, and if the Board of County Commissioners wants to remove this wording, it can do so. Chair Dorosin referred to the financial impact, and asked if the reason for the increase in the salary could be identified. Bonnie Hammersley said that is a reclassification of a current attorney to a staff attorney, which is an upgrade of the position. Chair Dorosin asked if this is in addition to Ms. Moore, who will still be in the County Attorney’s office half time. Chair Dorosin said that $46,000 includes both increases: upgrading the attorney position and additional responsibilities that Ms. Moore has in the Attorney’s office. Bonnie Hammersley said yes, and this information will be outlined in the budget amendment on December 12th. 20 Commissioner McKee complimented the Manager on the choice of Ms. Moore for this position. Commissioner Jacobs complimented the Manager for returning this to a standalone department. A motion was made by Commissioner Jacobs, seconded by Commissioner Price for the Board to: 1) Approve the new organizational structure creating the Department of Human Rights and Relations as a separate independent department. (See attachment 1); 2) Change the name of the Department of Housing Human Rights and Community Development to the Department of Housing and Community Development; 3) Authorize the Director of Human Rights and Relations to enforce the Civil Rights Ordinance; 4) Amend the Bylaws of the Human Relations Commission to reflect the changes created by the reorganization as provided in Attachment 2; and 5) Make these changes effective December 5, 2017. VOTE: UNANIMOUS Chair Dorosin asked if the BOCC could receive an update on the Performance Improvement Plan. 7. Reports a. House Bill 630 – Family/Child Protection and Accountability Act The Board received information about legislation passed by the North Carolina General Assembly impacting programs at the Department of Social Services (DSS) and considered sending a letter outlining Orange County’s concerns to Orange County’s legislative delegation and the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners. Nancy Coston, Department of Social Services (DSS) Director, presented this item, and reviewed the following information: BACKGROUND: In June 2017, the North Carolina General Assembly passed House Bill 630, Family/Child Protection and Accountability Act. This bill includes study and changes designed to improve outcomes for families in the child welfare system and to improve performance in all mandated social service programs. A UNC School of Government Overview is attached and House Bill 630 can be accessed at the electronic link noted above. There are many facets of this law, some of which have major implications for local departments of social services. Some of those areas are organizational structure/regionalization of both state and county services, performance contracts between each county and the state, and an external study of the social services system. Although the timelines vary for different parts of the law, performance contracts with the state will become effective July 2018 and the details of those contracts are currently under development. The law includes language regarding corrective actions and “state takeover” of all or some of the programs in a local agency if the performance measures are not met. 21 A report on the advantages and challenges of transitioning from county Social Services’ offices to regional offices is due to the General Assembly by February 2019. There is also a report due in November 2018 on regionalization of state offices with implementation to occur no later than March 2020. A workgroup was appointed by the General Assembly to make these recommendations. There are county representatives on the workgroup, and one representative of attorneys who works with social services agencies is Angie Stephenson, a law partner at Holcomb and Stephenson (the firm that provides legal services for Orange County DSS 1 services). The workgroup has met several times and the School of Government is providing facilitation and other support for this work. When this legislation was first introduced, regionalization of local social service agencies was mandatory. Through work with the bill sponsors, this was changed to allow the work group to make recommendations to the General Assembly before implementation. It does appear however that there is still interest in mandatory regionalization of both state functions and local agencies. The Department of Social Services is participating in numerous activities related to the law. These include analyzing proposed performance measures, identifying data sources for these measurements, and determining current performance. The Social Services Board and staff have met with state representatives to share concerns about some parts of the law, particularly mandatory regionalization. There is also a convening session in January sponsored by the county commissioners’ association and Orange County will participate in that session. Commissioner Jacobs asked if there has been thought given to having regional groupings, similar to mental health regional groupings; or will it be more like Triangle J Council of Governments (TJCOG) and other regional boards. Nancy Coston said she does not know, since she is not in the workgroup; but a DSS contract attorney is in the workgroup, if the BOCC would like to share specific feedback. She said, to her knowledge, none of this been discussed. She said the State has to decide what to regionalize. Commissioner Jacobs said North Carolina is unusual in that the State Government has devolved some of the responsibilities to the counties. He asked if this is very unusual, and if the State would prefer to return to a more centralized system. Nancy Coston said this is not clear at this time. She said all states are different, and about ten states have a county-run DSS. She said NC is also one of the few states where the county contributes to the cost in the way that they do. She said Orange County is unique in its approach to certain things, and it is unclear how these would translate to a regional model. Chair Dorosin asked if the workgroup is the same as the study commission appointed by the Legislature. Nancy Coston said this was called a working group, and has a lifespan of about 18 months to create a recommendation, and cannot regionalize without taking a plan to the General Assembly (GA). She said whoever receives the contract for the request for proposal (RFP) will make reports to the GA about the strengths and weaknesses of the system, particularly in child protection. Commissioner Rich asked if the working group is comprised of people from all over the State. Nancy Coston said yes. She said the NCACC appointed 3 or 4 commissioners; there are three social service representatives; one county DSS attorney; as well as many members of the General Assembly. She said Orange County has a contract attorney in the group, and there is also a County Commissioner from Durham. 22 Commissioner Marcoplos asked if there are specific state legislations requirements that county DSS offices must meet. Nancy Coston said most of the requirements are federal, which are passed on by the State. She said if local programming does not receive significant federal funding, the standards may not apply as strongly. Commissioner Marcoplos clarified that the Federal requirements are for the purposes of dispersing funds, and not necessarily to hold the counties accountable. Nancy Coston said it is a combination, and if the State does not meet certain child welfare performance measures, then certain Federal funds will be withheld. She said NC is currently under a program improvement plan due to not meeting federal standards, as are most states around the country; and thus counties are under a program improvement plan as well. Commissioner Marcoplos asked if the state were to take over DSS, would it be violating any standards. Nancy Coston said if the State were to take over it would not want to violate the federal requirements, as it would lead to a loss of funding. She said for the State to take over a county, it would want to improve the county’s existing performance levels. Chair Dorosin asked if Nancy Coston would outline a letter to the legislative delegation. Commissioner Price said the NCACC talked about regionalization, and no one seemed in favor of it. She said a letter may help. Chair Dorosin asked if staff would draft a letter. 8. Consent Agenda • Removal of Any Items from Consent Agenda f - Commissioner Price i - Commissioner Jacobs • Approval of Remaining Consent Agenda A motion was made by Commissioner McKee, seconded by Commissioner Jacobs to approve the remaining items on the Consent Agenda. VOTE: UNANIMOUS • Discussion and Approval of the Items Removed from the Consent Agenda F Request for Road Addition to the State Maintained Secondary Road System – Perry Hills Subdivision The Board considered making a recommendation to the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) and the North Carolina Board of Transportation (NC BOT) concerning a petition to add the remaining section of Paylor Street in Perry Hills Subdivision to the State Maintained Secondary Road System. Commissioner Price said it was the residents of the Perry Hill’s Community Association that brought this item to her attention, as well as to DOT and planning staff. Commissioner Jacobs acknowledged that the Town of Mebane brought this up at one of their joint meetings in the past. He said in the past, Mebane was not sensitive to the concerns of the Buckhorn Road community, but were sensitive to this community. 23 A motion was made by Commissioner Price, seconded by Commissioner McKee to approve a recommendation to the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) and the North Carolina Board of Transportation (NC BOT) concerning a petition to add the remaining section of Paylor Street in Perry Hills Subdivision to the State Maintained Secondary Road System. VOTE: UNANIMOUS i. Board of Commissioners – Boards and Commissions Annual Selection Process The Board considered voting to approve a selection process for the Board to utilize as part of Board members’ annual selection of Boards and Commissions on which to serve going forward in 2018. Commissioner Jacobs said he fine with the stipulations, except for the two-year term limit, which he finds insufficient. He said that some of these boards are working in a competitive environment, and it takes more than a year to get up to speed. He said rotating people through is not a good solution. He said most other local governments have representatives serve on boards for years. Commissioner McKee endorsed Commissioner Jacobs’ comments. Commissioner Marcoplos said some board positions can turn over more quickly than others. Commissioner Jacobs said the transportation boards have alternates members which is helpful. Commissioner Rich said she has been an alternate on boards, and after a year of service she still feels very lacking in knowledge. She said some board meetings seem like they are being conducted in a foreign language. She sees merit to both sides of the discussion regarding term limits, and struggles with finding the best solution. Commissioner Price said she has no problem taking out the term limits, but with the round robin process there is no guarantee of anything. Chair Dorosin suggested keeping the two-year term limit for all boards, except for transit related boards, where a two-year term limit would just be recommended. Commissioner Marcoplos suggested a three-year term. A motion was made by Commissioner Jacobs, seconded by Commissioner McKee that appointments to regional boards be no more than 4 years, and appointments to intra-county boards be no more than 2 years. VOTE: UNANIMOUS a. Minutes The Board approved the minutes from November 14 and 20, 2017 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 four taxpayers with a total of four bills that will result in a reduction of revenue in accordance with the NCGS. c. Property Tax Releases/Refunds The Board adopted a resolution, which is incorporated by reference, to release property tax values for twenty-four (24) taxpayers with a total of twenty-seven (27) bills that will result in a reduction of revenue in accordance with North Carolina General Statute 105-381. 24 d. Applications for Property Tax Exemption/Exclusion The Board considered seven untimely applications for exemption/exclusion from ad valorem taxation for seven bills for the 2017 tax year. e. Alliance for Historic Hillsborough Lease – Dickson House, 150 King Street, Hillsborough The Board considered a three year Lease Agreement with the Alliance for Historic Hillsborough for the Historic Dickson House, consisting of approximately 2,713 square feet of administrative, museum, and visitor’s center space as well as the restroom and historic office outbuildings located at 150 East King Street, Hillsborough; and authorize the Chair to execute the lease upon final County Attorney review. f. Request for Road Addition to the State Maintained Secondary Road System – Perry Hills Subdivision The Board made a recommendation to the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) and the North Carolina Board of Transportation (NC BOT) concerning a petition to add the remaining section of Paylor Street in Perry Hills Subdivision to the State Maintained Secondary Road System. g. Request for Road Additions to the State Maintained Secondary Road System – Buckhorn Ridge Subdivision The Board made a recommendation to the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) and the North Carolina Board of Transportation (NC BOT) concerning a petition to add Buckhorn Ridge Road and Twelve Point Trail in Buckhorn Ridge Subdivision to the State Maintained Secondary Road System. h. Request for Road Additions to the State Maintained Secondary Road System – The Reserve Subdivision The Board made a recommendation to the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) and the North Carolina Board of Transportation (NC BOT) concerning a petition to add Serrano Way, Madera Lane, Umbrio Lane, Majestic Court, and Chimeneas Place in The Reserve Subdivision to the State Maintained Secondary Road System. i. Board of Commissioners – Boards and Commissions Annual Selection Process The Board voted to approve a selection process for the Board to utilize as part of Board members’ annual selection of Boards and Commissions on which to serve going forward in 2018. 9. County Manager’s Report Bonnie Hammersley said staff has been working with the Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools (CHCCS) on the bond projects, and is not anticipating anything at the BOCC December 12th meeting. She said the school board is meeting on December 7th. Chair Dorosin asked if CHCCS pursued the possibility of extending the construction bid for the Lincoln Center project. Bonnie Hammersley said this conversation did occur, and the construction firm said the sub-contractors would not allow them to do this, due to anticipated cost increases after the first of the year. Chair Dorosin said the BOCC is receiving a lot of emails about this issue, and he would like clarification on the bond funding. He asked if CHCCS chooses to go forward with the Lincoln Center project, does the BOCC have the authority to say no. John Roberts said this is a County bond, not a school bond. He said it is his understanding that the BOCC decides whether or not to issue the bonds, and he will follow up Bob Jessup for a more full and formal answer. Commissioner Rich thanked all of the concerned parents who have sent emails to the BOCC, and she thanked Todd McGee, Community Relations Director, for his responses to 25 some of these emails. She said the location of the December 7th meeting may have been moved, and asked if the County could help in publicizing this information. Bonnie Hammersley said all emails are getting the same response, due to a consistency in the questions being asked. Commissioner Burroughs said just because the BOCC may be permitted to do something does not mean the BOCC should do something. Commissioner Jacobs asked if there is any progress in collaboration discussions between the schools and County staff. Bonnie Hammersley said Orange County staff has been included in all meetings thus far. 10. County Attorney’s Report NONE 11. *Appointments a. Arts Commission – Appointments The Board considered making appointments to the Arts Commission A motion was made by Commissioner Price, seconded by Commissioner Jacobs to appoint the following to the Arts Commission: • Appointment to a partial term (position #1) “At-Large” for Marlena Slade expiring 03/31/2018. • Appointment to a first full term (position #10) “At-Large” for Marlon Torres expiring 03/31/2020. VOTE: UNANIMOUS A motion was made by Chair Dorosin, seconded by Commissioner Rich to appoint: • Appointment to a partial term (position #6) “At-Large” for Linda Williamson expiring 9/30/2019. VOTE: UNANIMOUS b. Commission for the Environment – Appointment The Board considered making an appointment to the Commission for the Environment. A motion was made by Commissioner Price, seconded by Commissioner McKee to appoint the following to the Commission for the Environment: • Appointment to a first full term (position #11) “At-Large” for Jeremy Marzuola expiring 12/31/2020. VOTE: UNANIMOUS A motion was made by Commissioner Marcoplos, seconded by Commissioner Price to appoint the following to the Commission for the Environment: 26 • Appointment to a first full term (position #9) “At Large” for Kim Piracci expiring 12/31/2020. VOTE: UNANIMOUS 12. Information Items • November 20, 2017 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 November 20, 2017 Regular Meeting 13. Closed Session NONE 14. Adjournment A motion was made by Commissioner Rich, seconded by Commissioner Price to adjourn the meeting at 10:00 p.m. VOTE: UNANIMOUS Mark Dorosin, Chair Donna Baker Clerk to the Board