HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 05-03-2018 Work Session1
APPROVED 6/5/2018
MINUTES
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
WORK SESSION
May 3, 2018
7:00 p.m.
The Orange County Board of Commissioners met for a work session on Thursday, May 3, 2018
at 7:00 p.m. at the Southern Human Services Center in Chapel Hill, N.C.
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Chair Dorosin and Commissioners Mia Burroughs,
Barry Jacobs, Mark Marcoplos, Earl McKee and Penny Rich
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS ABSENT: Renee Price
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 7:07 p.m.
1. Boards and Commissions – Annual Work Plans/Reports
BACKGROUND:
In the past, as part of the Board of Commissioners’ annual planning and goal setting retreats,
the Board requested and reviewed/provided feedback on annual summaries/work plans from
the County’s internal advisory boards and commissions. This information provided the Board
with a yearly overview of the boards and commissions and their projected goals for the
upcoming year. This particular process ended in 2007. The Board decided at its April 13, 2010
meeting to reinstate this process independent of the Board’s annual retreats. Thus the current
process that is now being used:
• In September, the Clerk sends to the support staff of each advisory board the Annual
Report and Work Plan template to be completed by their ABC and returned by a
predetermined date in mid to latter December.
• The Chair/Vice Chair would then decides in January/February (after the winter break)
when these reports would come forth to the Board of Commissioner via oral summaries
of the annual reports by the Board chairs, who also would be available, along with staff,
to answer any questions that the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) may have as
related to the individual work plans.
• Usually the Chair of the advisory board (or their designee) will present the overview of
their work plan/annual summary.
• Appointees to outside boards and commissions (town boards) present an overview of
their particular advisory board.
The Board has requested that this process be discussed at a work session (it was originally
scheduled to be discussed at the March 8th work session but that meeting was canceled; it is
now tentatively scheduled for the May 17th meeting (after the budget public hearing item).
Internal Boards and their representatives below :
• OUTBoard Alex Castro, Vice Chair
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Alex Castro said the OUTBoard:
1. Reviewed possible implementation activities related to the Safe Routes to School
(SRTS) Plan.
2. Recommended the Orange Grove Road Bridge Fencing project.
Alex Castro said the OUTBoard was involved with the video club at Cedar Ridge High
School, where the students produced a PSA concerning bicycle safety.
Alex Castro said at three (3) of their meetings, the Transit Advisory Services/OPT
Group, including supplemental staff from other County departments (Aging; DSS; Housing,
Human Rights and Community Development; Health; Child Support Enforcement; and the
Library) jointly addressed transit services agenda items with the OUTBoard. He said the
OUTBoard serves as the advocates for the community for the rural areas, which are
underserved. He said these areas need access to transit services.
Alex Castro said Abigaile Pittman, who is the OUTBoard support staff person, is putting
together orientation materials for the OUTBoard, since transit and transportation are
complicated areas. He said it is difficult to get up to speed on these topics so these materials
will be useful for OUTBoard members, as well as new Commissioners.
Commissioner Rich asked if the PSA videos are available.
Abigaile Pittman, Transportation/Land Use Planner II, said there are 4 videos, which will
be presented at the June 5th meeting.
• Human Relations Commission (HRC) Deborah Stroman, Chair
Deborah Stroman said HRC membership is increasing, and more than half of its
members will be new to the commission:
Deborah Stroman reviewed the following information:
• Housing
• Education
• Civility
• Criminal justice
The charges of the HRC are:
a. Studying and making recommendations concerning problems in the field of human
relationships;
b. Anticipating and discovering practices and customs most likely to create animosity and
unrest, and seeking solutions to problems as they arise;
c. Making recommendations designed to promote goodwill and harmony among groups in
the County irrespective of their race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, national origin, sex,
affectional preference, disability, age, marital status or status with regard to public
assistance;
d. Monitoring and investigating complaints of discrimination;
e. Addressing and attempting to remedy the violence, tensions, polarization, and other
harm created through the practices of discrimination, bias, hatred, and civil inequality;
and
f. Civility- Promoting harmonious relations within the County through hearings and due
process of law.
Events:
The HRC held its annual Human Relations Month Forum on January 29, 2017, titled “Pluralism
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and Islamophobia: The Continuing Struggle”. The HRC also held the 27th Annual Pauli Murray
Awards on March 12, 2017. The Awards recognized a youth, an adult, and a business that
embody the characteristics of the late Dr. Pauli Murray in their dedication to social justice in the
community. The Annual Student Essay Contest was held as a part of the Pauli Murray Awards
to engage Orange County youth in the quest for social justice and equal opportunities. Three
middle schoolers and three high schoolers were recognized for their essays.
The HRC sponsored a Town Hall on June 8, 2017 with the Hate Free Schools Coalition,
titled “The Confederate Flag: Does it belong in Our Schools?”. The meeting was an effort to
provide an opportunity for education, discussion, and understanding to address the growing
tension as a result of Confederate flags being allowed in Orange County public schools.
Several panelists with varying points of view spoke and residents were also given an
opportunity to ask questions and make their own statements on the issue.
The Community Read Program has been in partnership with UNC in recent years. It is
possible that HRC may continue with this alone, and conduct it slightly earlier in the year.
Emerging Issues or concern:
1. Ensuring that the membership of the HRC reflects racial, cultural and gender diversity.
2. Recruiting more representation from Northern Orange for the HRC.
3. Creating an open line of communication between the HRC and other residents in order
to keep up-to-date on social justice issues impacting all parts of the County.
4. Exploring the HRC’s outreach and marketing in order to draw more residents to events.
5. Engage the community in frequent conversations to promote positive communication
and understanding.
6. What is happening around the UNC campus, and how do they include them in their
conversations.
Commissioner Burroughs said the interest in civility is exciting, and suggested that the
HRC contact Aaron Keck from WCHL about this issue.
Commissioner Rich said she liked the idea of promoting the HRC more, and if a
Facebook page would be helpful she is in favor of that. She suggested that the HRC work with
Todd McGee, Community Relations Director, to insure that information is disseminated in an
efficient matter.
Commissioner McKee referred to the conversation about the flag, and said he felt
people were talking at each other, and asked if there is a way to connect opposite views in
more of a conversation, as opposed to people sharing talking points. He said the event was
good, but he is not sure any minds were changed, and he would like to have a true
conversation.
Deborah Stroman said the HRC felt the same way, and this is a process. She said the
HRC felt it was a big win to have differing opinions in one room, and both sides were
passionate. She said at the end of the meeting people did not leave, but stayed and talked to
each other, as well as the other side.
Commissioner Jacobs said the Board got an email today from a UNC journalism student
requesting to talk to someone on the HRC about the flag issue. He said it may take a series of
meetings to discuss these sorts of topics.
Commissioner Jacobs said the Board struggles at public hearings to make sure people
are engaged and feel heard. He said the interaction between the elected officials and residents
needs to be more robust and effective, from the perspective of the residents. He said any work
the HRC could do to this end would be very helpful.
Deborah Stroman said the HRC talked about inviting residents to speak at HRC
meetings, but there are issues with timing. She said this idea is still being explored.
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Commissioner McKee said he would like staff to work with the HRC to move this flag
conversation forward.
Chair Dorosin said the HRC report indicates that the HRC does not currently have
partnerships with other advisory boards and commissions, but members are interested in
collaboration in 2018 and going forward, particularly co-sponsoring annual events. He said the
HRC can work with the Manager to make this happen.
Chair Dorosin said the HRC is one of the biggest advisory boards, and asked if its size
is appropriate.
Deborah Stroman said the board is too big, and she believes in a smaller board with
sub-committees.
Chair Dorosin said the Manager’s proposed budget has funding for staff to attend racial
equity training, and he would like to see if HRC members could also be a part of this.
• Chapel Hill - Orange County Visitors Bureau Anthony Carey, Chair
Anthony Carey said he has worked and lived in Orange County his entire of his life. He
said the Bureau appreciates the Board’s support. He said the Visitor’s Bureau (VB) has 1700+
rooms for sale in Orange County, with need for more in Hillsborough, but the VB is concerned
about paying attention to proper growth. He said the University of North Carolina (UNC), UNC
HealthCare, and the UNC sororities and fraternities are doing great things for the VB, but there
is a need for business demand generators in Orange County, such as a multicultural center, to
drive weekday and weekend business. He said the VB is also dealing with Airbnb, which has
over 380 rooms in Orange County. He said he is concerned about this, and the VB is gathering
best practices as how best to deal with Airbnb, including the collection of taxes. He said of
great concern with Airbnb is the lack of health regulations, as well as training for lodging
operators. He said the VB would like to create partnerships with the Airbnb properties in the
County.
Anthony Carey said the VB continues to look into creative promotional scope. He said
there are many great events in Orange County, and the VB helps to promote these. He said
the VB gives back to the SECU home, and as a Hotelier, he lets his rooms out at a reduced
rate whenever possible for health care needs.
Commissioner Jacobs commended the idea of sitting down with the Airbnb, instead of
seeing it as an adversary.
Chair Dorosin referred to the VB report, concern #2, which states: “Orange County
hospitality leaders fear Triangle area having too much hotel supply, especially in Orange
County where two main demand generators include: UNC and UNC Healthcare”. He asked if
this point could be clarified.
Anthony Carey said there is a need for more hotels in Hillsborough, while Chapel Hill is
saturated, and Carrboro is getting ready to build another one. He said new demand generators
are needed.
Laurie Paolicelli, VB Executive Director, said she is not sure if the VB will take a strong
position on too many hotels, but the concern of the existing supply is try to avoid cannibalism of
existing services. She said there is a need to develop new products for visitors, such as sports
fields, cultural center, and open space.
• Commission for the Environment Bradley Saul, Chair
Bradley Saul highlighted some activities:
o Continue to plan for, and prepare, the 2019 State of the Environment report
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o 3 committees: air and energy; water resources; and land resources. Each
committee tasked with identifying measured properties for the next year.
Air and Energy Committee
Request the BOCC sign on to the Global Covenant of Mayors for
Climate and Energy, which includes committing to completing a
greenhouse gas inventory within a year. Upon signing, the
committee will assist staff, as appropriate, with the associated
Greenhouse Gas inventory update and climate action planning.
Land Resources
Develop methodology for monitoring changes in forest cover/land
cover in Orange County and also tie into the “No Net Loss of Tree
Canopy” petition.
Water Resources
Strive to educate County residents about their source of water,
especially those residents utilizing groundwater for their supply.
Bradley Saul said the Commission just held Earth Evening Event last week, which was
successful.
Bradley Saul said members of the Commission continue to prepare articles on
environmental issues of importance to Orange County, including climate change, energy
conservation, and other important topics.
Bradley Saul said he had three questions to ask the BOCC:
1. The Commission has a number of members interested in proposing resolutions to the
Board of County Commissioners, which are not necessarily related to County policy, and
he asked if the BOCC is interested in these types of resolutions.
2. How useful is The State of the Environment Report?
3. Operation of advisory boards: the Commission does not have and operational
processes - ways to share information, listserve, etc.
Commissioner Jacobs asked if there is an example of the type of resolutions the
Commission is interested in sharing.
Bradley Saul said an example is a member brought forth a resolution to ask the State
Treasurer to divest from fossil fuels. He said the BOCC may not agree with that particular
issue, but in general the Commission would like to know if the BOCC would want to receive
these types of resolutions.
Commissioner McKee said there is a wide area of opinions on all issues in Orange
County, and asked if the Commission has a plan to incorporate as many views as possible in
one resolution. He said he has a problem with passing resolutions without the incorporation of
many different people, and different viewpoints.
Bradley Saul agreed, and the Commission is still discussing this.
Commissioner Jacobs said he was sent a copy of this draft resolution, and if more came
forward in the future, the Board of County Commissioners could decide what to do with them.
He said he does not want to stifle the advisory boards, and resolutions can be sent to the Chair
or another board member. He said the resolution may be used, or it may die, but that would be
left to the Board of County Commissioners to decide.
Commissioner Rich said in regards to the list serve, advisory boards should work with
the Community Relations Director.
Bradley Saul said he was referring to a list serve for the Commission itself. He said
maybe a Google group within his advisory board.
Commissioner Rich said that is easy enough to do.
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Bradley Saul said it is easy to do, but he wants to make sure it is permissible to do. He
said there is no guidance.
Commissioner Marcoplos said he is looking forward to the report on The State of the
Environment. He said the environment is changing faster than they can react, and it may be
beneficial to complete this type of report more frequently than every five years.
Commissioner Marcoplos said he hopes the Commission will look into the identifiable
signs of local climate change, such as the algae in University Lake. He said more information
could lead to greater understanding amongst the public on environmental issues.
Commissioner Marcoplos said he noticed the Commission’s goal to develop a plan for
researching the potential environmental impacts of the rural buffer, and this is the 30th
anniversary of the rural buffer. He said the rural buffer is a critical contribution to the
community, and there are many existing impacts – sound mitigation, water quality, air quality,
etc. – and not just potential impacts.
Commissioner Jacobs said he has been trying to get the Planning Directors back
together to discuss the rural buffer, and create a report.
Commissioner Jacobs said there is a County intranet with contact information for all
advisory board members. He said there should be a way to allow board members to access
each other’s information to easily cross-pollinate.
Chair Dorosin said the Commission can just bring resolutions forward, and let the Board
of Commissioners review and decide whether to act on them.
Chair Dorosin referred to the State of the Environment Report, and suggested replacing
the 200-page document with a 45-minute presentation, which can be used at community
meetings, and other organizations.
Chair Dorosin said one of the Commission’s emerging issues is continuing to learn
about environmental justice matters, which he greatly appreciates.
• Economic Development Advisory Board (EDAB) Vice Chair Paige Zinn
Paige Zinn said she is the Vice Chair, and Delores Bailey is with her, and she is getting
ready to roll off the Board.
Paige Zinn said she has served on the board for two years, and shared some updates:
• Continue their financial support, and to increase their Article 46 funding for their Small
Business Loan program
• Add funds to the agricultural grant program
• SWOT Analysis has been completed, and EDAB will be discussing this later this month
and will then make their recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners
• EDAB will be hosting the ED Summit in the fall 2018 and will be organized around 4-5
topics and be broadcast by WCHL.
Delores Bailey thanked the BOCC for allowing her to serve on this board, and said they
do own Midway Center, which was the first small incubator in Orange County. She said she
also serves on the grant program, and listed 5 minority-owned businesses they were able to
assist. She encouraged the BOCC to increase the funding as requested.
Commissioner McKee said he knew several of businesses that have got off the ground
with grants from EDAB, and it is to be commended.
Chair Dorosin asked if the amount of applications could be identified.
Paige Zinn said 22.
Chair Dorosin said it is amazing how much difference a small amount of money can
make to a fledgling business. He thanked Delores Bailey for her service.
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Commissioner McKee said when the grant program first started there was not a lot of
interest, but that is changing rapidly as word has spread.
Paige Zinn said the grant program was well publicized last year, which helped greatly in
getting the word out.
Delores Bailey said the interest shows there is a great deal of need, and even a small
grant can help a business to grow.
• Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) Todd Dickinson, Chair/Pete Sandbeck
Todd Dickinson thanked the BOCC for its support. He said he spent the day with 300
students at Blackwood Farm explaining how houses were made two hundred years ago, and
how important it is for children to understand history, and the historic resources available to
them in Orange County. He highlighted the following activities of the HPC over the past year:
• Historic Resources Book Manuscript: Initiated the final manuscript preparation phase of
the project to produce a publication documenting the historic resources of Orange
County, in partnership with the Town of Hillsborough and the Alliance for Historic
Hillsborough. (2017)
• “Farm to Table” Demonstration for Historic Preservation Month: HPC members
presented hands-on programs on historic woodworking, historic hand tools and
traditional farm life skills for over 300 fourth graders at Blackwood Farm Park, as part of
the annual “Farm to Table” event sponsored by DEAPR. (2017)
• Efland Home National Register Nomination: Completed a project to prepare a National
Register Nomination for the historic Efland Home or NC Industrial Home for Colored
Girls with funding provided through the County’s Lands Legacy Program. (2017).
• Cedar Grove Community Center Historic Designation: Completed project to place the
historic Cedar Grove School on the state’s Study List as the first step toward listing it on
the National Register of Historic Places. (2017)
Identify any activities this commission expects to carry out in 2018 as they relate to
established BOCC goals and priorities.
• Historic Resources Publication Project: The HPC will seek grant funds from private
foundations and individual donors to allow the HPC to partner with the Alliance for
Historic Hillsborough and the Town of Hillsborough to complete the manuscript for a
comprehensive book/publication documenting the historic resources of the Town
and County. (Fiscal impact: HPC will request $25,000 in County funds in FY
2018-19 to secure $25,000 in matching/challenge grants in 2018; HPC staff will
provide project support)
• County Historic Marker Program: Develop guidelines and procedures for a proposed
Orange County Historic Marker program, modeled on several other successful
county marker programs. The goal is to create a County-sponsored system of
attractive, durable and informative roadside markers to identify important historic
resources, places and people for the educational benefit of the general public. A web
site would be established to allow for access to more in-depth information. Such
markers will enhance other efforts to promote heritage tourism in rural parts of the
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county. (Fiscal impact: 2018-19: none; the HPC staff will provide support to
develop program guidelines)
• Designating Landmarks in Town ETJ’s: Continue working with the various
municipalities to develop an interlocal agreement to govern the designation of
historic landmarks within the various town’s ETJ’s. (No fiscal impact)
Todd Dickinson referred to the ETJ issue, and said the HPC has spoken with the Towns
of Hillsborough and Carrboro, and these Towns are after a model interlocal agreement, one of
which was found in Wake County, and can be used as a template. He said the HPC would like
to share this with the County Attorney. He said Carrboro continually throws back a wall of
issues before being willing to move forward in any way.
Commissioner Jacobs asked if John Roberts can reply to these issues.
John Roberts said he will gladly respond, as soon as he knows the issues.
Chair Dorosin said he noticed one of the emerging issues for the HPC is to increase
diversity in the historically significant sites, especially with regard to sites significant to the
African American community. He said he was excited to hear this news. He said the new
museum in Alabama, dedicate to the atrocities of lynching, has a reference to Orange County,
and he would like to recognize this historic incident in some way. He suggested that the HPC
connect with the HRC, the Arts Commission, and James Williams, former Public Defender.
Todd Dickinson said African American history is difficult because it is deeply steeped in
slavery, which many people do not want to discuss. He said it requires sensitivity.
• Housing Authority (OCHA) Diane Beecham, Vice Chair
Ellie Kinnaird, Board member, and Sherrill Hampton, Housing Director, were also
present.
Diane Beecham said the OCHA provides citizen oversight of the County’s Housing
Authority and its Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program. She reviewed the following
highlights:
Accomplishments: Page 20
• Provided comments for inclusion in the annual Consolidated Plan/ Action Plan Update
for the HOME Program and other community development needs.
• Continues to educate County residents and the BOCC on the HCV Program and its
associated activities, as well as challenges facing the industry.
• Facilitated the implementation of a new homeless preference within OCHA’s
Administrative Plan in 2017. This programmatic change resulted in homeless persons
receiving vouchers to assist them with securing affordable housing.
• Participated in the Affordable Housing Summit held on February 23, 2018 and provided
comments and input on affordable housing issues in Orange County.
• Participated in sponsored activities, events and workshops that help build HCV
participants’ self-sufficiency.
• Participated in OCHA’s outreach events and activities for existing landlords and other
interested rental property owners in an effort to increase landlord participation in the
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HCV program.
List of Specific Tasks, Events, or Functions Performed or Sponsored Annually
• Review and provide input on the Consolidated Plan/Annual Plan Update and
Performance Report
• Review and approve changes to the Housing Authority policies, including revisions to
the Administrative Plan in order to enhance program efficiency, compliance with HUD
requirements, as well as meet program participants’ needs.
• Review of the Section 8 Management Assessment before its submission to HUD.
• Continue participation in landlord engagement events and activities in an effort to
increase landlord participation in the HCV Program.
• Continue participation in OCHA’s events and activities sponsored to help build HCV
participants’ self-sufficiency.
• Work with staff to increase HCV participants utilization of the voucher for
homeownership opportunities.
• Continue educating County residents and the BOCC on the changing landscape for
Housing Authorities, various new regulations and their ramification on the County’s
Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program.
• Ongoing advocacy on behalf of low-income individuals and families in need of
sustainable housing solutions.
Chair Dorosin referred to the 600+ housing vouchers allocated to Orange County, with
only 500+ being used, and asked if clarification could be provided.
Sherrill Hampton said the utilization rate is 86%, one reason for which is the high cost of
rental units, in and around, Chapel Hill and Carrboro. She said they can go up to 110%, but it
lessens the number of vouchers that can be put on the street. She said they do need to
increase by 40 people, but she has to leave room in that pool as they would be over their
allocation, or a greater supplement would be needed from the County due to the higher rents.
Chair Dorosin said, as he understands it, the County is at 86% but could be doing
better.
Sherrill Hampton said she would like to get to 92-93%.
Commissioner Marcoplos asked if more landlords are stepping up to take the vouchers.
Sherrill Hampton said there are about 200 landlords participating in the program, and
the risk mitigation fund has gone into effect, which she hopes will incentivize landlords.
Commissioner Marcoplos asked if the risk mitigation fund has been helpful in recruiting
landlords.
Sherrill Hampton said yes. She said efforts are being made to better explain the
voucher program to landlords.
Commissioner McKee asked if local transportation an issue, and if a more robust local
transportation system to rural areas would help.
Sherrill Hampton said yes.
• Nursing Home Community Advisory Committee Vibeke Tally, Chair
Vibeke Tally elaborated on one item in her report: the quality of life of residents in
nursing homes. She said the Committee is meeting individually with residents, and asking if
they have visitors, do they participate in activities, etc. She said the Committee is also meeting
with the activity staff, which plays a key role in the quality of life.
Vibeke Tally said, in the past, the Committee has been asked to bring in more concrete
activities, but it would like to expand this even more. She said exit interviews are conducted
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with administrators, who are asked how they view quality of life. She said the administrators
report that the high staff turnover greatly impacts quality of life.
Vibeke Tally said two of the nursing homes have turned over their overall administration,
which is difficult. She said the Committee is not just focusing on facilities, but is also working
with community projects, such as Project Engage. She said there are two Committee members
who are part of a long term care task group. She said this group is focusing on reestablishing
the friendly visitor program in the nursing homes; where trained volunteers visit with residents,
help with activities, etc.
Vibeke Tally said a new nursing home will open on Legion Road in Chapel Hill in the
coming year, which is owned by Liberty Healthcare, and will bring the total number of nursing
homes in Orange County to 5.
Commissioner Jacobs referred to administrators expressing frustration over staff
turnover, and asked if a living wage is paid.
Vibeke Tally said no.
Commissioner Jacobs asked if the BOCC can help the Committee to encourage the
payment of a living wage, otherwise the cycle of staff turnover will continue.
Vibeke Tally said the BOCC could write to the corporations who own the nursing homes.
Commissioner Jacobs said he wrote letters as the Chair, and imagines that the current
Chair would also be willing to do so.
Vibeke Tally said it was very helpful.
Chair Dorosin asked if the letters were related to wages.
Commissioner Jacobs said no, rather about quality and standards of care.
Commissioner Burroughs said she was going to bring up the same issue, and said she
has met many nursing assistants in recent years, and the living wage is critical to prevent
turnover.
Commissioner Marcoplos asked if the pay level is known.
Vibeke Tally said minimum wage to begin with, and some go up from there with time.
Commissioner Marcoplos asked if Liberty Health is an insurance company.
Vibeke Tally said it is a healthcare company.
Commissioner Jacobs said the County’s contracts for in home health aides require that
a living wage be paid, and this could be used as an example to show the healthcare companies
of how to keep staff and provide consistent care for the elderly.
Chair Dorosin asked if the Committee has reached out to the Animal Shelter to bring in
animals to visit with residents.
Vibeke Tally said yes.
Chair Dorosin asked if Travis Myren would draft a letter to be sent to the healthcare
companies.
• Parks and Recreation Council Tori Williams Reid, Chair
Tori Williams Reid says this Council serves as an advisory board for the provision of the
parks, facilities and recreation programs. She said she has a lot to cover, as there is much that
falls under the umbrella of Parks and Recreation, most of which is children’s programming, but
some adult programming also.
Tori Williams Reid reviewed their accomplishments:
• Plans for Blackwood Farm Park
• The process for capital funding for parks (FY 2017-22 Capital Investment Plan projects)
• Reviewed and made recommendations on five FY 2017-18 Outside Agency Funding
Requests (recreation agencies)
• Sponsored The Nature of Orange Photography Contest
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• Online trails and parks information and communication methods- use more social media
• Site visits to County parks
• Community Centers and transition to community-based management
• Naming of Fairview Park ballfield for James Stewart
• Met with Sportsplex executive director on upcoming changes and collaboration
possibilities
Commissioner Marcoplos said he is curious about the availability of school fields, and
the demand for their use.
David Stancil, Department of Environment, Agriculture, Parks and Recreation Director,
said it is difficult at the high and middle schools, and much easier at the elementary schools. He
said years ago there was a joint use of school facilities memorandum between the County and
the schools. He said often the fields at elementary schools are not really the best to use.
Commissioner Marcoplos said when looking at population projections and budgetary
concerns, it seems that using that which already exists, and working toward some type of
collaboration, would make sense.
David Stancil said it can be done, and there have been some successes, but there is
some proprietary interest with the athletic directors.
Commissioner Jacobs suggested bringing this up with the schools during the budget
work session. He said there are some legitimate security issues, which can be overcome, and
this overall issue has been a problem as long as he has been a Commissioner.
Commissioner Marcoplos said the fields are sometimes treated like show dogs.
Commissioner Jacobs said he understands wanting the fields to be in good condition,
but there has to be some middle ground. He commended Tori Williams Reid for using the
phrase “low impact recreation”.
Tori Williams reviewed the goals and priorities for 2018:
• Advise on the pending construction of Phase 2-A at Blackwood Farm Park, including the
potential for partnership on the Nature Center and the Disc Golf course among others.
• Review and advise on the design and layout for of the Soccer.com Center Expansion.
• Continue to participate in the Mountains to Sea Trail project as waystation and trailhead
locations are identified in the coming at Seven Mile Creek and potentially other
locations.
Emerging Issues going forward:
• The County continues to have a need for gymnasium space that exceeds the capacity of
the Central Recreation Center. The County rents space at two Orange County Schools
just to run existing basketball and volleyball programs, and there is evident demand for
increased activity for gymnasium space. The PRC encourages discussions about the
potential for finding additional gymnasium access, perhaps through the Sportsplex
expansion that is starting, to help meet this pent-up demand.
• The PRC proposes to look at the possibility of short-term usage of land-banked future
park sites for other interim activities until such time as the parks are built, and develop a
report to the Board of Commissioners on this topic during 2018.
Chair Dorosin referred to their wish list, and said there is an idea of short-term usage of
land banking for future parks. He asked if a report will be brought back to the BOCC in the
future.
David Stancil said yes, and there are three sites that have areas that could be cultivated
for some farming. He said he is working with the Ag Preservation Board.
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Chair Dorosin said he is also interested in hearing more about the need for gymnasium
space. He said he has heard of this need as well, as would like to hear more about this: the
costs, ideal location, etc. He said there is a need for higher impact recreation as well as low
impact.
Commissioner Jacobs asked if the St. Paul Church has a gym, and, if so, maybe a
partnership could be fostered.
• Planning Board Randy Marshall, Vice Chair
Randy Marshall suggested doing reverse alphabetical order at next year’s meeting. He
said he has enjoyed his time on the Planning Board.
• In the last year, provided input on the reorganization of the Tables of Permitted Uses at
several ORC meetings.
• Reviewed and made recommendations on flood regulations, public hearing process
revisions, and an MPD-CZ application (Settler’s Point).
Randy Marshall said at the Planning Board meeting last night they talked about the
Settler’s Point community neighborhood information sessions, and trying to have information
available prior to discussions taking place.
Randy Marshall said training sessions have been implemented for new Planning Board
members. He said Perdita Holtz, Planning Department, has been using webinars from the
School of Government on planning issues and orientation issues, which has been very helpful.
Craig Benedict, Planning Director, said due to the interest for the Board of Adjustment to
receive training, the Planning Board will also be invited to training sessions on the quasi-judicial
issues.
Randy Marshall said the Planning Board intends to continue looking at affordable and
senior housing, including co-housing and clustering in rural areas; updating the Unified
Development Ordinance with changes from Raleigh; and rezoning for development projects,
transportation issues, and wireless and broadband access.
• Affordable Housing Advisory Board (AHAB) Cain Twyman and
Sherrill Hampton
Cain Twyman reviewed the following information:
What are your Board/Commission’s most important accomplishments?
• Providing comments for inclusion in the annual Consolidated Plan/ Action Plan Update
for the HOME Program and other community development needs.
• Educating newcomers on The AHAB on Orange County’s affordable housing issues.
• Participating in the Affordable Housing Summit held on February 23, 2018 and provided
comments and input on affordable housing issues in Orange County.
List of Specific Tasks, Events, or Functions Performed or Sponsored Annually.
• Review and provide input on the Consolidated Plan/Annual Plan Update and
Performance Report.
• Monitor the Affordable Housing Bond and other local housing programs.
• Review outside funding requests/applications from organizations providing housing
services.
• Educate the community on affordable housing needs, trends and resources and related
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partnerships with the towns, public agencies, nonprofits, civic and for-profit
organizations.
Identify any activities this board/commission expects to carry out in 2018 as they relate to
established BOCC goals and priorities.
• Participate in or facilitate an Affordable Housing Tour to note impact of work undertaken
and changes in need.
• Continue to monitor and provide necessary input and comments on the County’s Land
Banking/Mobile Home Park Initiative, as well as the intergovernmental response to
mitigating resident displacement related to mobile home park closures.
• Assist in the formulation of the Consolidated Plan/Annual Action Plan Update.
• Continue conducting Speaker Presentations and Community Dialogues to address
affordable housing concerns and options that will help to increase the supply and meet a
range of needs.
• Host a joint session with other Affordable Housing Boards in the County.
• Participate in a meeting with Orange County Local Government Affordable Housing
Collaborative.
Emerging issues or concerns for 2018:
• The need for better communication across all organizations that focus on affordable
housing matters.
• The need for enhanced communication and engagement between landlords, utility
services, the County and the HCV Program.
Cain Twyman reported that Ellie Kinnaird shared comments with her about the master
leasing proposal, which came to their board. She said they spoke with the Chamber of
Commerce and others, who would like to form a coalition to rent out houses themselves to low
income families, in order to have an additional source of affordable housing.
Commissioner Rich said she has spoken with Sherrill Hampton about seeing improved
collaboration with the Towns, and asked if there is an update on these outreach efforts, and
asked if there is a timeline.
Cain Twyman said they hope to do this fairly soon, but are not sure of an exact timeline.
Sherrill Hampton said the AHAB Chair and Vice-Chair were adamant about meeting with
the municipal advisory boards, and staffs from the Towns and County have talked about this.
She said one suggestion was to have the chairs of all the advisory boards to meet and create
an agenda. She said she will bring that suggestion back to the AHAB next week to gather
some possible meeting dates.
Commissioner Rich said she thinks it is important to set an agenda first, because simply
meeting is not enough; there has to be collaborative conversation.
Commissioner McKee asked if it is a technical issue to have the Advisory Board chairs
meet prior to the boards meeting.
Sherrill Hampton said this was a suggestion that came from a member of the
collaborative staff team.
Chair Dorosin said the BOCC heard from the Housing Authority earlier. He said there is
the Housing Authority (OCHA), AHAB, and the Orange County Local Government Affordable
Housing Collaborative (“the Collaborative”), and asked if these are distinct entities or are there
are overlapping efforts.
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Sherrill Hampton said the OCHA is a 501(c)(3), and it is required to exist. She said the
AHAB assists with the outside agency applications, provides comments on the annual and
consolidated plans, and review, rate, rank, and provide input on the bond program applications,
as well as any surplus properties RFPs that the County may let. She said the Collaborative
came about in October 2017, and is the expansion of the Home Review Committee. She said
she sees this as a driving force from the elected officials and jurisdictional staff , and she said
there may be some overlap, but the AHAB is an amalgamation of residents who are on the
ground. She said these three groups could do some joint initiatives on certain topics, call for
community conversations, etc.
Chair Dorosin said it is useful to have the many perspectives, and said Sherrill Hampton
staffs all three entities, and he wonders if there could be an economy of scale by merging some
of these boards, with subcommittees that do different things. He said the emerging issues in
the different groups seem to overlap. He said typically a Housing Authority owns housing, but
the OCHA does not own any housing. He said the Housing Authority in Chapel Hill owns all the
public housing.
Sherrill Hampton said Housing Authorities are typically a single entity with a public
housing side and a voucher administration side. She said in Orange County, the two functions
are split, but the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) does still want to see
the board and other requirements met. She said she has been speaking with the Manager, and
it may be that the OCHA will have some subsidiaries in the future, but that is at the discretion of
the BOCC. She said fully thought out recommendations will be brought to the BOCC in the
future.
Chair Dorosin said he wanted to think about how the County can be more effective and
efficient, and Orange County does not own any housing of which they are landlords.
Sherrill Hampton said that is correct, and the County does own two lots.
Sherrill Hampton said a report will be brought to the BOCC on the condition of the
surplus properties owned by the County. She said not all of the lots are useable.
Chair Dorosin recommended thinking about how these different housing boards are
distinct, and how they could be better coordinated.
Sherrill Hampton said she agrees, and sees the need for only two of these boards.
• Adult Home Care Advisory Board Committee Mary Fraser
Mary Fraser said that the Chair Max Mason has provided a thorough written report to
the BOCC, but could not attend tonight. She said the report is similar to the Nursing Home
CAC report, and they have similar concerns. She said there is an equity issues with these
homes, and there is a vast difference for those with means, and those without means. She said
problems arise from funding sources for Medicaid, and providing additional services can be
very difficult. She said this Board has had some resignations lately, which need to be filled in
order to have good advocates for these residents.
Commissioner Jacobs said there is a training component to be on these boards, and
asked if that makes it more difficult to recruit.
Mary Fraser said if someone is interested in serving, they are happy to complete the
training.
Commissioner Jacobs said he would like to know what the training entails.
Mary Fraser said she does not think the training is quite a year long, but rather one must
be on the board for a year prior to receiving a formal appointment.
Commissioner Jacobs said the application makes it sound somewhat more onerous,
and perhaps that should be amended.
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2. Discussion on Arts Moments Presenters
PURPOSE:
To discuss the possible participants in the Arts Moment portion of the Board’s regular meetings
and provide any comments to staff on any parameters to consider in soliciting possible
presenters.
BACKGROUND: As part of regular meetings, the Board of Commissioners recently instituted
an “Arts Moment” at the beginning of each meeting. The County’s Arts Commission Coordinator
solicits an artist to briefly share arts-related work for each meeting.
To date, individual literary artists have been presented the Arts Moments, mostly due to the
availability, willingness, and reliability of those local authors. A suggestion has been made to
allow local arts groups to promote themselves during the Arts Moment.
The item gives the Board the opportunity to discuss including arts groups. It should be noted
that the majority of Board regular meeting dates in 2018 are already filled (only five are
available later in the year), so any groups would likely not present until late 2018. The Board
may also want to discuss the possibility that the inclusion of groups may present the opportunity
for the Arts Moment to shift from presentational to promotional in nature.
Katie Murray, Arts Commission Director, said this decision is up to the Board of County
Commissioners, and when Arts Moment idea was first discussed it was thought of as a
presentation. She said organizations can come and speak, or it can remain as individual artists
only.
Commissioner Marcoplos said he did not know this idea would turn into an agenda item.
He said when he toured the Greene Tract, he spoke with another attendee, named Allison
Weakly, who said the students were coming to the Greene Tract and drawing pictures of what
they saw. He said he thought this it would be great to have these kids come to a BOCC
meeting to show their artwork. He said this could be done once in a while, as a complement to
individual artists.
Commissioner Burroughs said she has loved the Art Moments so far, but would caution
against having an art group at every meeting, but rather occasionally.
Commissioner McKee referred to the abstract, which states: “may present the
opportunity for the Arts Moment to shift from presentational to promotional in nature,” and
asked if clarification could be provided.
Katie Murray said it would be an opportunity for an organization to promote itself. She
asked if the moment is intended to enjoy a piece of art, or is an opportunity for an arts group to
promote an event, or increase public awareness of its existence, etc.
Commissioner McKee said he would not want this to turn into something where the
BOCC is lending support to one organization over another.
Katie Murray agreed.
Commissioner Jacobs said groups can always speak during the “items not on the
printed agenda” portion of a meeting.
Commissioner Rich agreed with Commissioner Burroughs, and likes the readings and
poetry, as it grounds the BOCC before a meeting. She said she may be accepting of
Commissioner Marcoplos’ idea occasionally, but her original vision for the Arts Moment was
more of what currently exists.
Commissioner Marcoplos said he never had this idea, but simply made a comment. He
said he the Arts Moment is centering, and seems almost anti-meeting.
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Chair Dorosin suggested keeping the Arts Moment as it is now, and if a group wants to
speak or promote something, there is time during the” items not on the agenda” for comments
to be made.
Commissioner Jacobs said the Arts Moment is Orange County’s answer to opening a
meeting with a prayer.
Commissioner Rich said the County is not used to an Arts Moment, and it is special to
all.
3. Planning for the 2018 Orange County Economic Development Summit
PURPOSE: To finalize planning for fall 2018 Economic Development Summit, including:
1) Identifying topics for discussion;
2) Selecting the date and time of day for the Summit; and
3) Confirming the roles of BOCC members during the Summit.
BACKGROUND:
The Board of County Commissioners appropriated $30,000 in the FY 2017-18 budget from the
Article 46 sales tax to host an Economic Development Summit. At its April 3 meeting, the
BOCC approved holding the Summit on a to-be-determined date after the summer break and
chose to partner with WCHL to broadcast the Summit live on the radio and Internet. The Board
chose to hold the event at the Whitted Building so it could also be broadcast on the County
access channel (channel 1301 on Spectrum). The purpose of the Summit is to provide
information to residents and existing or potential businesses about the many services and
programs provided by Orange County Economic Development.
Staff met April 19 with representatives from WCHL and developed the four proposed topics
below. These topics were taken from ideas solicited by staff from the Board of Commissioners
earlier this year. It is proposed that each topic be discussed by a panel of experts for one hour
of the four-hour program.
In addition, WCHL will create short (60-second) profiles of individuals or businesses that are
Orange County Economic Development “success stories.” These stories will highlight
businesses that received assistance from Orange County Economic Development or students
who benefitted from an Orange County Scholarship to Durham Technical Community College.
Todd McGee reviewed these topics, suggesting one topic per hour of the event:
Suggested topics:
• Creative Economy – The non-profit arts segment generates more than 5,000 jobs and
attracts significant tourist spending in the County. The LAUNCH business incubator has
helped many small start-ups grow into thriving businesses that create jobs and
prosperity for residents.
• Recreation Destination – The Orange County/Chapel Hill Visitors Bureau recently
completed an assessment of the potential for a multipurpose sports/recreation facility. In
addition, Orange County already has existing assets (examples: the Soccer.com
complex in Mebane and the Mountains to the Sea Trail) that can be tapped to create
more recreation-related tourism revenue for the County.
• The Nexus of Local Food System – Orange County is home to many small specialty
farms that can attract visitors and create more economic output in the County through
more jobs and agritourism. Helping small farms bring their products to market is critical
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for this industry to grow. The Piedmont Food and Agricultural Processing Center (PFAP)
has launched several successful businesses. Economic Development’s small grants and
loan programs have also helped many new farmers in Orange County.
• Small Business/Industrial Recruitment – In recent years, Orange County Economic
Development successfully recruited Morinaga America Foods to a site in Mebane for its
first U.S. plant and a Wegman’s Supermarket to Chapel Hill. The department has many
initiatives to attract new businesses and industries to the County. Grant and loan
programs are available for small businesses looking to expand or entrepreneurs who
are looking to start a new business. Durham Technical Community College also plays a
critical part in training students for careers in healthcare or advanced manufacturing.
Commissioner Rich said she would like to add the Food Council into the ‘Nexus of Local
Food System’ topic. She said there may be a common theme in all four topics, such as Article
46 funds.
Steve Brantley said not every example is listed, but this would allow many programs to
be explained and highlighted.
Todd McGee said the radio station will create 60-second stories about recipients of
Article 46 grants.
Commissioner Jacobs said he would also add the Lands Legacy Program to the ‘Nexus
of Local Food System’ topic, as it has protected so many acres of land, which has contributed
to keeping the food system viable.
Commissioner Jacobs said the Sportsplex should be added to the Recreation
Destination topic, at it is a huge draw to the area.
Chair Dorosin suggested having a component on the issue of wages and employment:
wages for school employees, low wage jobs in healthcare and childcare, etc. He said the
County is making great efforts towards promoting a living wage wherever possible, and it is
important to keep discussing how to continue this work.
Steve Brantley said there could be a Durham Tech education/work force development
topic, which could include more sophisticated business recruitment.
Commissioner McKee said this topic could be woven into all of these topics, and the
support for these enterprises drives a more successful business, which in turn allows the
business to pay higher wages.
Commissioner Jacobs agreed, and said it strikes him as strange that salaries are rarely
discussed. He said it may be useful to share the salaries that are earned within the different
topics and areas of the economy.
Chair Dorosin said he liked this idea.
Commissioner Marcoplos said he would like to see some time spent on the trades, and
how to prepare young people for the trades. He said the schools are doing a bit more, but it
may be a good time to push the conversation further.
Steve Brantley said his office is participating with the schools, especially with Orange
County Schools. He said Durham Tech also focuses on the trades.
Commissioner Marcoplos said he is part of a homebuilders’ effort to spur the schools to
do more with building trades, and is currently working with students at Orange High School to
build a chicken coop. He said there is good money to be made working in building trades, and
youth should know this.
Commissioner McKee said there is great opportunity in the trades, and the work is very
difficult to export. He said he would like to highlight the County’s support for recruiting outside
economic development, as well as its support of existing local businesses.
Commissioner Rich asked if speakers will be found for each category.
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Todd McGee said he welcomes BOCC suggestions, and will also look to staff and the
community for their expertise. He said the radio station will help as well.
Commissioner Rich said she is happy to work with the radio station, but she wants to
make sure this is the County’s Economic Summit.
Commissioner Rich said to include the Orange County Living Wage community.
Chair Dorosin said it may be helpful for the Board to see a revised version of this
agenda, once this evening’s comments have been incorporated.
Date and Time:
Todd McGee said staff is looking at the fall, and wants to do it after the Local Fest and
before the election, and suggests Wednesday, October 10th. He said the radio station
recommends doing it from 3-7 p.m. on the Aaron Keck show, which has a ready-made
audience interested in these topics. He said staff agrees with this recommendation.
The Board agreed to this date and time by consensus.
Board of County Commissioners Involvement
Todd McGee asked if each Commissioner wants to be on one of the panels, or just let
the Chair given opening comments.
Chair Dorosin said he is open to the will of the Board.
Commissioner Jacobs said he would like to see what staff comes up with, and the
Commissioners may want to sit in the audience and heckle.
Chair Dorosin suggested that staff brainstorm whom it may want on the panels, and the
Commissioners can see where they may be able to fill in.
Todd McGee said it would be good to have the Commissioners’ perspective during the
event.
4. Policy on Board Petitions and Board Members’ Requests to Staff
Commissioner Jacobs suggested tabling this item until Commissioner Price can attend.
The Board agreed by consensus.
ITEM DEFERRED
A motion was made by Commissioner McKee, seconded by Commissioner Rich to
adjourn the meeting at 9:41 p.m.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
Mark Dorosin, Chair
Donna Baker
Clerk to the Board