HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 10-16-20181
APPROVED 11/1/2018
MINUTES
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING
October 16, 2018
7:00 p.m.
The Orange County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, October 16,
2018 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: None
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 7:00 p.m.
1. Additions or Changes to the Agenda
The following items were noted at the Commissioners’ places:
- PowerPoint for item 7-a: 203 Project” Update – Orange County Southern Branch Library
- PowerPoint for item 7-b: Dental Health Services in Southern Orange County Proposal- in
abstract
- PowerPoint for item 7-c: Hurricane Florence Operations Review and Debriefing
Chair Dorosin asked if the Board would move Item 4-c to be proposed item 8-l on
Consent Agenda.
The Board agreed by consensus.
Chair Dorosin said that Commissioner McKee will be late tonight.
PUBLIC CHARGE
The Chair dispensed with the reading of the public charge.
ARTS MOMENT- Change in speaker
Arts Commission Board Member Marlon Torres introduced Chris Kubica, who spoke
instead of the originally scheduled Ms. Anthony, who is now unwell:
Arts Moment
Chris Kubica, a Carrboro resident since 2006, runs a boutique custom software
consultancy by day, and pursues his artistic passions at all other times. He edited the epistolary
collection, LETTERS TO J. D. SALINGER for the University of Wisconsin Press and
subsequently was an Associate Producer for Shane Salerno’s feature-length documentary,
SALINGER, which premiered at MOMA in 2013. Locally, Chris is the Vice Chair of the Orange
County Arts Commission Advisory Board. Five years ago, Chris founded an all-high-school
fiction and poetry writing contest in cooperation with the Chapel Hill / Carrboro City School
District. This year, under the official banner of the Orange County Arts Commission, this writing
contest will be expanded Orange countywide.
Chris Kubica read one of his poems.
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2. Public Comments
a. Matters not on the Printed Agenda
Corey Williams said he is a Public Information Officer (PIO) for the US Small Business
Administration (SBA) Office of Disaster Assistance. He said Orange County was added to the
list on October 15, 2018 to be eligible for grant assistance because of Hurricane Florence. He
said this allows any resident (business, homeowner, renter, or non-profit) to be eligible for grant
assistance and low interest loans. He said the UCF – UNC game was canceled due to the
hurricane, and the Town of Chapel Hill lost monies from tourism revenue. He said SBA offers
Economic Injury Disaster loans, which provides working capital to business owners to sustain
themselves throughout the recovery period. He said they offer low interest disaster loans to
homeowners, up to $200,000 to repair/replace disaster damaged real estate, and up to $40,000
to repair/replace disaster damaged personal property. He said the interest rate for home loans
is as low as 2%, and 3.675% for the business loans. He said for all of the loans there is a
minimum one-year deferment.
Carnetta Swann read the following letter:
Dear Board of Commissioners,
The Perry Hills Community Association (PHCA) would like to thank you for approving the funds
for our road improvements and conditions for our subdivision. We would like to give special
recognition to Commissioners Renee Price and Earl McKee for their commitment and quick
response to address out community issues presented at the Village Circles Forum held at the
Efland-Cheeks community center. They personally came to the community to hear and see the
conditions. We also would like to thank the Planning Committee including the Commissioners,
NC Department of Transportation (DOT) District 7 PE, Planning and Inspection Department, OC
Emergency Department, OC Sheriff Department, Community Organizing Consultants, NCDOT
Highway Maintenance Engineer, DOT Traffic Engineer, and other departments that worked
together to expedite the improvements. The following improvements were completed 6 months
ahead of schedule:
Road Improvements:
• Paylor Street was resurfaced including drainage of ditches, installing pipes, removed
trees and vegetation
• Lancaster Road and Shamblay Road were resurfaced
• Alpha Drive was partly resurfaced and DOT is revising regulations to complete Alpha
and Scarlett Drive
Thanks to all the departments for working together in making it a priority to respond with such
care that has given our community a facelift and a greater sense of pride. We look forward to
working with you to complete Alpha and Scarlett Drive to make it safer for our school bus routes
and emergency vehicles. Thanks again.
Sincerely,
Carnetta Swann, Committee President
Eileen Williamson, PHCA President
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
Commissioner Burroughs had no comments.
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Commissioner Price said Cardinal Innovations met, and the two new members,
appointed by the Board of County Commissioners, attended and participated. She said the
Board of County Commissioners advisory committee that was put together to elect the directors
will continue to meet.
Commissioner Price said there was a suicide prevention event held on September 21st,
and she thanked the Health department for raising awareness of suicide in Orange County.
She said some alarming statistics were shared regarding suicidal ideations amongst local high
school students, which the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) may want to review.
Commissioner Price said the Durham/Chapel Hill/Carrboro Metropolitan Planning
Organization (MPO) met last week, and there are two events coming up: 15-501 work shop on
October 21st at Eno River Unitarian Universalist Church; and the Highway 54 public hearing on
November 14th in Durham.
Commissioner Rich said she attended an economic development conference with Steve
Brantley over the past two days, where the topic of site selection was discussed. She said large
manufacturing companies are not relocating now because of uncertainty regarding trade
changes from the Federal Government. She said few manufacturing sites are being created,
but some companies are looking to locate headquarters. She said a common theme of the
conference was a lack of trained workforce. She said she sent emails around about other
events.
Commissioner Jacobs requested an update on a few things: the Manager looking into
adding an environmental impact statement to abstracts; meeting with Mebane and a possible
social event; and the roll out of broadband.
Commissioner Jacobs said there was a Rural Buffer/JPA 30th anniversary event at
Blackwood Farms this evening, and it was good to celebrate the vision and the commitment to
preserve the local environment.
Commissioner Jacobs said there was a Piedmont Food and Processing Center (PFAP)
board meeting yesterday, and they project $270,000 in revenue this coming fiscal year, and a
$19,000 profit. He said it is going to break into two entities: a for-profit and non-profit. He said
they have helped develop “WePower” for women entrepreneurs in the food industry. He said
PFAP just purchased two walk-in blast freezers, which has increased business because these
can freeze dry items quickly.
Commissioner Marcoplos said he sent an article about tiny homes and the building code
to the BOCC. He said there have been many barriers to building tiny homes, and the 2018
International Building Code has clarified many code issues. He asked if staff would look into
local and state building codes in relation to these international building codes, and explore
possibilities for building tiny homes more easily in Orange County.
Commissioner Marcoplos said the Board received an email from a woman from Caldwell
and the nuisance of incessant gunfire in her neighborhood. He reminded the Board that it
should do something if it can, and noted that there was previous discussion regarding a
potential good neighbor public campaign encouraging residents to notify neighbors of gun use.
Commissioner Marcoplos said the County is having its economic development summit
tomorrow at the WCHL studios. He said one segment will be about vocational training.
Chair Dorosin said in March the Board of County Commissioners adopted a resolution in
support of Marcy’s Law. He said he is now strongly opposed to that amendment, since having
learned more about this law. He asked that this item be brought back on November 1st to
rescind this resolution.
Commissioner Marcoplos said he would withdraw his support.
Commissioner Burroughs also withdrew her support.
Commissioner Rich also withdrew her support.
Commissioner Jacobs said he would like to read about it, and requested that the item be
brought back on November 1st.
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Commissioner McKee made the same request.
The Board agreed by consensus to bring this item back at the November 1st regular
meeting.
4. Proclamations/ Resolutions/ Special Presentations
a. Proclamation Declaring October 2018 as Dysautonomia Awareness Month
The Board considered voting to adopt a proclamation declaring October 2018 as
Dysautonomia Awareness Month and authorizing the Chair to sign.
BACKGROUND:
Miranda Harris, an Orange High School student, recently submitted a letter requesting that the
Board of Commissioners consider approving a proclamation declaring October 2018 as
Dysautonomia Awareness Month. Ms. Harris’ request is provided at Attachment 1.
Dysautonomia is a group of medical conditions that result in a malfunction of the autonomic
nervous system, which is responsible for “automatic” bodily functions such as respiration, heart
rate, blood pressure, digestion, temperature control and more. Some forms of dysautonomia are
considered rare diseases, such as Multiple System Atrophy and Pure Autonomic Failure, while
other forms of dysautonomia are common, impacting millions of people in the US and around
the world, such as Diabetic Autonomic Neuropathy, Neurocardiogenic Syncope and
Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome. Dysautonomia impacts people of any age, gender,
race or background, including many individuals living in Orange County.
Miranda Harris and Abigaile Finch, Orange County Schools’ students were present; both
students have been diagnosed with this invisible chronic Illness.
Chair Dorosin read the proclamation:
ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
PROCLAMATION
DYSAUTONOMIA AWARENESS MONTH
WHEREAS, dysautonomia is a group of medical conditions that result in a malfunction of the
autonomic nervous system, which is responsible for “automatic” bodily functions such as
respiration, heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, temperature control and more; and
WHEREAS, some forms of dysautonomia are considered rare diseases, such as Multiple
System Atrophy and Pure Autonomic Failure, while other forms of dysautonomia are common,
impacting millions of people in the US and around the world, such as Diabetic Autonomic
Neuropathy, Neurocardiogenic Syncope and Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome; and
WHEREAS, dysautonomia impacts people of any age, gender, race or background, including
many individuals living in Orange County; and
WHEREAS, some forms of dysautonomia can be very disabling and this disability can result in
social isolation, stress on the families of those impacted, and financial hardship; and
WHEREAS, some forms of dysautonomia can result in death, causing tremendous pain and
suffering for those impacted and their loved ones; and
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WHEREAS, increased awareness about dysautonomia will help patients get diagnosed and
treated earlier, save lives, and foster support for individuals and families coping with
dysautonomia in our community; and
WHEREAS, Dysautonomia International, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that advocates on
behalf of patients living with dysautonomia, encourages communities to celebrate
Dysautonomia Awareness Month each October around the world; and
WHEREAS, Orange County seeks to recognize the contributions of the professional medical
community, patients and family members who are working to educate residents about
dysautonomia in Orange County;
NOW, THEREFORE, we, the Orange County Board of Commissioners, do hereby proclaim
October 2018 as DYSAUTONOMIA AWARENESS MONTH in Orange County.
This the 16th day of October, 2018.
A motion was made by Commissioner Rich, seconded by Commissioner Burroughs for
the Board to approve and authorize the Chair to sign the proclamation.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
b. Domestic Violence Awareness Month Proclamation
The Board considered voting to approve a proclamation recognizing October 2018 as
Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Orange County and authorizing the Chair to sign.
BACKGROUND:
Domestic Violence is a pattern of control in an intimate relationship where one person uses
coercion and violence to gain power and control over a partner.
In 1989, the U.S. Congress first passed Public Law 101-112 designating October of that year as
National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and has adopted similar legislation each year
thereafter. The goal has been to educate and make the public aware of domestic violence
issues, support the victims of domestic violence, and to connect advocates across the nation,
who are working to end domestic violence.
The Board of Commissioners is asked to proclaim October 2018 as “Domestic Violence
Awareness Month” in Orange County to support victims of domestic violence, to educate
residents, and support those working to end domestic violence.
Cordelia Heaney, Compass Center Executive Director, read the proclamation:
ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
PROCLAMATION
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH
WHEREAS, Domestic Violence is a pattern of control in an intimate relationship where one
person uses coercion and violence to gain power and control over his or her partner; and
WHEREAS, victims of domestic violence can be of any age, race, religion, or economic status;
and
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WHEREAS, nearly 1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men have experienced severe physical violence by
an intimate partner in their lifetimes; and
WHEREAS, too often, the victims of domestic violence are children who have lifelong
repercussions from the emotional and physical trauma of experiencing or witnessing domestic
violence; and
WHEREAS, Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October provides us with a special
opportunity to advance our efforts to prevent and end domestic violence and to assist all victims
of it; and
WHEREAS, one person can make a huge difference in the life of a child or an adult victim of
domestic violence, helping them find safety and making them more resilient to the effects of
domestic violence; and
WHEREAS, each year, non-profit organizations, County staff, and others contribute a multitude
of hours year to addressing domestic violence issues and assisting victims, and are often the
people who make a difference in the lives of families, abusers seeking services, and victims
seeking support during medical assessment or legal proceedings; and
WHEREAS, we can all do one thing to help end domestic violence and the harm that it causes;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Orange County Board of Commissioners,
do hereby proclaim the month of October 2018 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in
Orange County.
This the 16th day of October, 2018.
A motion was made by Commissioner Burroughs, seconded by Commissioner Price for
the Board to approve the proclamation designating October 2018 as “Domestic Violence
Awareness Month” in Orange County and authorize the Chair to sign the proclamation.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
Cordelia Heaney thanked the Board of County Commissioners for their ongoing support
for the Compass Center.
c. Proclamation Recognizing Katherine Cheek: MOVED TO ITEM 8-l
The Board considered voting to approve a proclamation recognizing and expressing
gratitude to Katherine “Kat” Thompson Wilkerson-Cheek for her devotion and service to the
people of Orange County.
d. Reduce Single Use Plastics Month & Skip the Straw Month Proclamation
The Board considered voting to approve a proclamation declaring October 2018 as
“Reduce Single Use Plastics Month” and declaring March 2019 as “Skip the Straw Month” and
authorize the Chair to sign.
Robert Williams, Solid Waste Director, introduced Bruce Woody, new Assistant Director.
He then presented this item.
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BACKGROUND: In the spring of 2018, Commissioner Penny Rich petitioned that the BOCC
consider implementing a skip the straw program. In reviewing the issue, the Solid Waste
Advisory Group (SWAG), in addition to supporting the Skip the Straw program, proposed
expanding on the program to encourage the reduction of all single use plastics and having the
County and each Town during the month of October issue the proposed proclamation. Each
Town is anticipating considering the proclamation during the month of October.
Hundreds of millions of tons of plastic are produced every year, most of which cannot be
recycled. Petroleum based plastic is not recyclable and usually goes into a landfill where it is
buried or it ends up in storm-water, lakes and eventually the oceans. While plastic will not
biodegrade, it will break down into tiny particles after many years. In the course of breaking
down, it releases toxic chemicals, which make their way into the food and water supply.
The National Skip the Straw Day, founded in 2017, is held the fourth Friday in February, and
there is a movement in the greater Triangle area and with coastal counties in North Carolina to
declare March 2019 a state-wide Plastic Straw Free Month. By issuing the proclamation now
declaring March as Skip the Straw Month, staff anticipates being able to call more attention to
the issue and garner widespread community support.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
Kim Piracci said the connection between consumerism and global warming is an
infrequently discussed problem. She said fossil fuel burning is usually divided between
industrial, transportation, commercial and residential sectors, but recent studies look at the
burning of fossil fuels differently: the consumer lifestyle approach. She said this research
shows that 80% of fossil fuel burning occurs to support the direct or indirect consumer activity of
our lifestyles. She said and example of direct consumer activity is driving a gas vehicle. She
said an indirect example is the process of building the car to begin with. She said it is a hard
reality for people to face, but it is an important message to keep repeating. She said the use of
plastic is a good start, especially single-use plastics.
Commissioner Rich read the proclamation:
ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
PROCLAMATION
OCTOBER 2018 – “REDUCE SINGLE USE PLASTICS MONTH”&
MARCH 2019 – “SKIP THE STRAW MONTH”
WHEREAS, single-use plastics such as straws, cups, utensils, and take-out containers are not
recyclable and must be landfilled; and
WHEREAS, single-use plastic bags are recyclable but still cause harm in the environment; and
WHEREAS, single-use plastics remain in the environment indefinitely, harming wildlife,
impacting water quality, and diminishing the aesthetic character of the County’s outdoor
environment; and
WHEREAS, plastics do not biodegrade in the environment, but instead break down into smaller
micro-plastics; and
WHEREAS, single-use plastic pollution presents a danger to public health by increasing the
pathogens and chemicals in animal tissue, waterways and lowering water quality, requiring
significant resources to address; and
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WHEREAS, Orange County and the Towns therein wish to recognize National Skip the Straw
Month to encourage residents to give up single use plastic straws; and
WHEREAS, Orange County and the Towns therein wish to promote the reduction in the use of
ALL single-use plastics by residents and businesses by encouraging reuse and durable
alternatives, refusing single-use plastics when offered, and offering compostable or reusable
alternatives; and
WHEREAS, Orange County and the Towns therein are known for and committed to social and
technical innovation, environmental and waste reduction leadership;
NOW, THEREFORE, we, the Orange County Board of County Commissioners, do hereby
declare October 2018 as “Reduce Single Use Plastics Month” and declare March 2019 as “Skip
the Straw Month.”
This the 16th Day of October 2018.
A motion was made by Commissioner Rich, seconded by Commissioner Burroughs for
the Board to approve and authorize the Chair to sign the proclamation.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
e. Resolution Repealing the 1959 Designation of US Highway 15 as the Jefferson
Davis National Highway
The Board considered voting to adopt a resolution to repeal the 1959 Board of
Commissioners designation of US Highway 15 as the Jefferson Davis National Highway and
authorizing the Chair to sign.
John Roberts reviewed the background, and added that this went back to the 1920s. He
said the Daughters of the Confederacy wanted to have a transcontinental highway named after
Jefferson Davis, and this was supported by a NC Senator in 1959 who made a request to the
BOCC to recognize highway 15 in Orange County be recognized as this. He said the national
request was never seen to fruition, but the local resolution still exists.
BACKGROUND:
Orange County residents have expressed concerns regarding a 1959 Board action designating
the section of US Highway 15 from the Durham line to the Chatham line as part of the Jefferson
Davis National Highway. Staff research indicates that neither the United States Department of
Transportation nor the North Carolina Department of Transportation recognizes a Jefferson
Davis National Highway.
The 1959 resolution had no legal or practical effect other than to recognize Jefferson Davis, the
only president of the Confederate States of America. Local governing boards are free to pass
and repeal resolutions as they see fit so long as repealing a resolution is done with equivalent
procedural safeguards as were utilized in approving it. In this case it does not appear the
original resolution was approved after any type of special public notice or public hearing, but
rather was adopted similar to the way the BOCC currently approves general resolutions.
The legal effect of adopting the attached resolution is limited to repealing the 1959 resolution. A
plaque recognizing the Jefferson Davis National Highway is situated within the state-maintained
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right of way and is believed by staff at the NCDOT to be privately owned. The County does not
have legal authority to encroach into the right of way or to remove the plaque.
Commissioner Price referred to the third paragraph in the background section, which
states that NCDOT staff believes the highway marker plaque is privately owned. She asked if
this is accurate.
John Roberts said staff at DOT believes that this plaque is privately owned, but there are
so many different highway markers that DOT gave up trying to keep track of them all. He said
they assume the Daughters of the Confederacy may own this plaque.
Commissioner Price asked if they own the land or the plaque.
John Roberts said he thinks just the plaque. He said the land is within the state’s right of
way.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
Nan Fulcher said she supports the resolution to repeal the previously issued resolution.
She said the presence of these plaques, statues, and roadway names are part of a calculated
plan to promote the superiority of the Anglo Saxon race, with a complete distortion of the history
of slavery.
Altha Cravey supports the resolution because it is important to actively create inclusive
spaces in our communities.
Heather Redding supports the resolution.
Ivy Barger supports the resolution.
Candace Midget supports the resolution.
Diane Robertson is a trained historian, and she supports the resolution.
Commissioner Marcoplos asked if he can put up a sign in a DOT right of way.
John Roberts said yes, but DOT can remove it.
Commissioner Marcoplos said he would like to petition DOT to find out who owns the
sign, so that the County can approach the owner and ask for its removal.
Chair Dorosin said this can be added to the “let it be resolved” section of the resolution.
He read the resolution:
A RESOLUTION REPEALING THE JUNE 1, 1959 BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
RESOLUTION DESIGNATING U.S. ROUTE 15 IN ORANGE COUNTY AS THE JEFFERSON
DAVIS NATIONAL HIGHWAY
WHEREAS, in the mid-twentieth century a private group began a movement to designate a
coast to coast national highway as the Jefferson Davis Highway, Jefferson Davis Memorial
Highway, or Jefferson Davis National Highway; and
WHEREAS, this group approached local and state governments across the nation for support in
the form of local roadway dedications; and
WHEREAS, on June 1, 1959, pursuant to one such request, the Orange County Board of
Commissioners voted to support a resolution designating that section of U.S. Route 15 situated
in Orange County as the “Jefferson Davis National Highway”; and
WHEREAS, the federal government never designated or adopted a Jefferson Davis Highway,
Jefferson Davis Memorial Highway, or Jefferson Davis National Highway; and
WHEREAS, because there is no official “Jefferson Davis National Highway” the 1959 resolution
has no legal or practical effect and serves only to recognize Jefferson Davis; and
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WHEREAS, Jefferson Davis, though a United States Senator, was also the President of the
Confederacy, a slave owner, and defender of the institution of slavery, and later a defender of
white supremacy; and
WHEREAS, the institution of slavery and its legacy of white supremacy must not be glorified by
the recognition of the individuals who defend them; and
WHEREAS, the Board of Commissioners is committed to dismantling the legacy of racism and
inequality that continues to stain our community;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Board hereby REPEALS the June 1, 1959
resolution designating the section of U.S. Route 15 in Orange County as the Jefferson Davis
National Highway and will petition that NCDOT remove the plaque and pedestal.
This the 16th day of October, 2018.
A motion was made by Commissioner Price, seconded by Commissioner Rich for the
Board to adopt the attached resolution repealing the 1959 designation.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
5. Public Hearings
a. Unified Development Ordinance Text Amendments – Update of Effective Date of
Flood Information Rate Maps (FIRM)
The Board considered holding a public hearing on a Planning Director initiated Unified
Development Ordinance (UDO) text amendment updating the effective date for the County’s
Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs).
Michael Harvey, Planner III, presented this item:
BACKGROUND:
Orange County has been a member of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) since
approximately 1976. The NFIP offers flood insurance to homeowners, renters, and business
owners if their community participates in the program through the adoption and enforcement of
regulations designed to mitigate/reduce flood risk. This includes adoption of flood maps
denoting areas where flooding is a possibility, specifically FIRM developed and maintained by
Federal Emergency Management Association (FEMA).
Staff was informed by State emergency management officials in May 2018 that there is going to
be a FIRM update, specifically a modification of floodplain data on several FIRMs impacting
property in Durham County. The maps contain property in both Orange and Durham counties,
effectively making them ‘shared maps’. While this update will not result in a change in identified
flood data within Orange County (i.e. no increase or decrease in flood area on property in
Orange County’s planning jurisdiction), the data on the shared FIRMs is being changed. As a
result, Orange County must modify existing regulation(s) to reflect the new FIRM effective date
of October 19, 2018.
This amendment needs to be adopted by October 19, 2018 in order for Orange County to
remain eligible for participation in the NFIP. A copy of the recommended language is contained
within Attachment 4.
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As previously indicated, participation in the NFIP is voluntary and floodplain management
standards are only enforceable within a specific community. County regulations, for example,
only apply to property owners within Orange County’s planning jurisdiction. This also means
only those property owners benefit from Orange County’s participation within the program. It is
up to individual communities (i.e. Carrboro, Chapel Hill, Hillsborough, Mebane, etc.) to adopt
and enforce floodplain management regulations. Staff is unaware of pending FIRM changes
impacting any of the aforementioned municipalities requiring similar amendment(s)/action. It is,
however, incumbent on those individual communities to coordinate such action with State
emergency management officials.
Planning Director Recommendation: The Planning Director recommends approval of the
Statement of Consistency, as contained in Attachment 3, and the UDO Text Amendment, as
contained within Attachment 4.
Planning Board Recommendation: At its September 5, 2018 meeting, the Board voted
unanimously to recommend approval of the Statement of Consistency and the UDO
amendment package. An excerpt of minutes and the signed Statement of Consistency from this
meeting are included in Attachment 2.
Chair Dorosin asked if the only change here are the dates.
Michael Harvey said yes, and there is no increase in flood property area for parcels of
property in Orange County. He said the problem is a technical one where the County needs to
insure that the ordinance reflects the most recent FIRM map.
A motion was made by Commissioner Price, seconded by Commissioner Rich for the
Board to open the public hearing.
VOTE: UNANINOUS
NO PUBLIC COMMENT
A motion was made by Commissioner Price, seconded by Commissioner Rich for the
Board to close the public hearing the public hearing. (Note that, because this is a legislative
decision, additional comments at a later date are permitted).
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
A motion was made by Commissioner Rich, seconded by Commissioner Burroughs to:
a. Adopt the proposed amendments by approving the Statement of Consistency (Attachment 3)
and Ordinance (Attachment 4).
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
Commissioner Jacobs thanked the Planning Department for the setbacks in stream
buffers. He said these setbacks have so far insured that the stream in front of his house has
not come anywhere near is house during a storm/flood.
6. Regular Agenda
NONE
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7. Reports
a. “The 203 Project” Update – Orange County Southern Branch Library
The Board received an update on “The 203 Project”, including the design process and
key points within the Development Agreement between Orange County and the Town of
Carrboro.
BACKGROUND:
In October 2017, the Board of Orange County Commissioners approved the
Development Agreement between the Town of Carrboro and Orange County for the
development of a building on Carrboro owned property located at 203 South Greensboro Street
in Carrboro. The Building is contemplated to house the Orange County Southern Branch
Library and various administrative spaces for the Town of Carrboro (note Attachment 1:
“Development Agreement”). The Board has received information item updates as the
Development Agreement process has progressed since the execution of the Development
Agreement.
Timeline of Key Developments
In accordance with a Request for Qualifications process in early 2018, Carrboro engaged
Perkins + Will as the project architect and titled the project “The 203 Project” in March 2018.
Through the late spring and summer of 2018, the Town of Carrboro held four public input
sessions (June 13, July 23, and two sessions on August 4) on the vision and program for the
“The 203 Project.” Perkins + Will received over 300 responses either in person or online from
community members.
Joint stakeholder meetings consisting of staff members from the Town of Carrboro, Orange
County, the ArtsCenter and WCOM-FM occurred throughout June, July, August and September
2018 to process the feedback gathered in the input sessions, plan for shared spaces within the
overall building program, examine cost-benefit relationships, and to review site and space
planning options that can be mutually supported.
The Board received a memo on September 4, 2018 (Attachment 2) regarding the progress on
“The 203 Project” including the work with the Perkins + Will, the project architects, and the
stakeholders of Town of Carrboro, Orange County, the ArtsCenter and WCOM-FM.
On September 4, 2018 the Carrboro Board of Aldermen held a public hearing and endorsed the
recommended schematic design, “The Commons”. Work on the project continues to move
forward as contemplated in the Development Agreement between Orange County and the Town
of Carrboro. County staff is satisfied that “The Commons” schematic design provides the library
the necessary space, operational efficiency and visibility. An overview of “The Commons”
design highlights is provided within Attachment 3.
On September 20, 2018 a public session was held at the Carrboro Town Hall for review of the
recommended schematic design, “The Commons.” Town advisory boards and the public were
asked to make further comments regarding Design, Site Development, Parking and Teen
Center.
At a planned joint work session on October 25, 2018, the Board of Orange County
Commissioners and the Carrboro Board of Aldermen will review the preliminary schematic
design, “The Commons”, as well as preliminary probable costs developed by the Bree Group of
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Durham, NC, a Perkins + Will cost estimating sub-consultant, and the recently engaged
Construction Manager at Risk firm, Barnhill Construction of Durham, NC.
Development Agreement Highlights
The following are notable Development Agreement point updates for the Board:
A. Library Location with the “203 Project”: “The Commons” schematic design contemplates the
Library to occupy a full, contiguous floor on the second level of the facility. With regard to
the facility design (Article Three, Section C of the Development Agreement):
“The Town, as Owner of the Property, will be primarily responsible for procuring
all necessary development approvals for the Project to permit the Orange County
Southern Branch Library on the Building's lower floors, the proposed uses on the
upper floors as described herein and the required associated parking.”
The design honors the Orange County Southern Branch Library Development Agreement in the
following manner:
• The placement of the library at the center of the second story will allow it to
dominate the space while also drawing your attention to the other elements of the
building. The design of the interior will allow the customers to see into the library
and for the library customers to see what is also going on in the floor below. The
library will be accessible to all customers by the grand entrance staircase and two
(2) elevators.
• The design of “The Commons” still allows for the library to be on 1 floor for
optimum operational efficiency
• While another scheme allowed for the library to be on the first floor, it was not
recommended because it did not meet the design/use needs of all partners, did not
allow for collaborative opportunities, diminished visibility for the other parties, and
was the most expensive of all the schemes. (See metrics table)
B. Parking: The Schematic Design incorporates the necessary 50 on-site public parking
spaces for the library as required by the Carrboro Development Ordinance as well as by the
Development Agreement (Article Three, Section M of the Development Agreement):
“The parties agree that in the event on-site parking spaces will be owned and
paid for by the County shall be available for use by Library patrons during normal
Library operating hours. This number of spaces will be determined during the
permitting and design of the project. These spaces will be made available to the
Town while the Library is closed.”
C. Cost Allocation & the Associated Timeframe for Agreement: Since the Schematic Design is
largely complete, the County and Town are now within the 45 day period of evaluating the
design and its estimated costs (Article IV, Section A):
“The parties acknowledge that Exhibit C represents their general understanding
of the cost sharing; however, the parties agree to negotiate in good faith the fair
and equitable share of all costs associated with this project as soon as possible
after the Schematic Design work is completed. If the parties are unable to come
to an agreement within forty-five (45) days after the Schematic Design
Acceptance date of September 26, 2018, then either party may terminate this
agreement by providing ten (10) days advance written notice to the other party of
its intention to terminate this agreement.”
This agreement must be completed by day 45 after the Schematic Design Acceptance Date, or
by November 9, 2018. As outlined in the section, if any party is intending to terminate this
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agreement, they must provide ten (10) days advance written notice to the other party, which
would be October 31, 2018. The Parties are also able to negotiate an extension of this period of
time, as well as terminate the agreement by either not accepting the Guaranteed Maximum
Price (“GMP”) of the project or not securing approval for the project financing by the Local
Government Commission.
Carrboro is prepared to appropriate $10,000,000 for its portions of the project and has also
appropriated adequate funds for its portion of the design costs. The County anticipates making
its funds available on a reimbursement basis to Carrboro in accordance with the Development
Agreement and other governing documents. The contemplated total capital project cost for the
entire development is estimated at $15,000,000. The latest project cost estimates are expected
to be provided and analyzed by staff in time for the October 25, 2018 joint meeting.
Bonnie Hammersley said this will be an item on the agenda with the Town of Carrboro
next week. She said there is more work to do on this, but cost estimates have recently been
received, which are much higher than the budgeted amount. She said she has talked with the
Carrboro Town Manager about the costs, but she does not think the costs will be available by
next week. She said tonight will provide an update on the planning thus far.
Commissioner McKee arrived at 8:18 p.m.
Jeff Thompson, Asset Management Services Director began following PowerPoint
presentation:
“The 203 Project”
Orange County Southern Branch Library
- Update -
October 16, 2018
Purpose
To receive an update on “The 203 Project,” including the design process and key points within
the development agreement between Orange County and the Town of Carrboro.
Background
• In October 2017, the Board of Orange County Commissioners approved the
development agreement between the Town of Carrboro and Orange County at 203 S.
Greensboro St. in Carrboro.
• The building will house the Orange County Southern Branch Library, Town of Carrboro
Recreation and Parks Dept., The ArtsCenter, and WCOM-FM
• The Board has received information item updates as the development agreement
process has progressed.
Timeline of Key Developments
• March 2018: Carrboro engaged Perkins + Will as the project architect and titled the
project “The 203 Project.”
• May-Aug. 2018: Carrboro held 4 public input sessions. Perkins + Will received over 300
responses either in person or online.
• June-Sept. 2018: Joint meetings with Carrboro, Orange County, The ArtsCenter and
WCOM-FM to process input sessions, plan for shared spaces, examine cost-benefit
relationships, and to review site and space planning options.
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• Sept. 4, 2018:
-This Board received a memo (Attach. 2) re progress on “The 203 Project.”
-Carrboro Board of Aldermen held a public hearing and endorsed the recommended
schematic design, “The Commons” (Attach. 3). County staff is satisfied this design
provides the library the space, operational efficiency and visibility it requires.
Sept. 20, 2018: Carrboro held an information session in re “The Commons” for town
advisory boards and the public, and received comments regarding design, site
development, parking and teen center.
Oct. 25, 2018: The Board of Orange County Commissioners and the Carrboro Board of
Aldermen will review the “The Commons.”
Parking: The design incorporates the necessary 50 on-site public parking spaces for the
library as required by the Carrboro Development Ordinance as well as by the
development agreement (Article 3, Sect. M).
Development Agreement Highlights
Schematic Design & Associated Timeframe: The County and Carrboro are now within the
45-day period of evaluating the design and its estimated costs (Article 4, Sect. A). The
contemplated endpoint for this timeframe is November 9th, 2019
Lucinda Munger, Library Director, continued the presentation:
Location: The Library will occupy a full, contiguous floor on the 2nd level of the facility.
• The library will dominate the space while also drawing attention to other elements of the
building.
• The library will be accessible to all customers by the grand entrance staircase and 2
elevators.
• The design allows for the library to be on 1 floor for optimum operational efficiency.
• (An option for a 1st floor presence would have diminished collaboration with and visibility
for other parties and was more expensive.)
Conceptual Design Highlights
Lucinda Munger and Jeff Thompson reviewed the next several slides, which were
matrixes and conceptual designs of the facility.
Evaluation matrix/pictures next 8 slides - page 5-8
Lucinda Munger said the library will be distinguished from the other parts of the building
by external signage and use of different materials.
Lucinda Munger described the interior of the building, noting spaces for the Town of
Carrboro, the Arts Center, and the County; as well as the ways that all entities will make use of
these spaces. She said the lobby will serve as a gathering space; the staircase will lead up to
the library and will be visible from the lower floor. She said there is also a teen center.
Jeff Thompson said there are 130 library parking spaces.
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Lucinda Munger reviewed the second level of the building, where the library will be
located. She said the brown area on the slide is for the Arts Center Improve Theater and
classrooms. She said WCOM will be housed on this floor next to the library space.
Lucinda Munger said the net square footage of the library/orange section is about
13,500, and with the inclusion of the grey area, the total is 15,000 sq. ft.
Lucinda Munger reviewed the final floor noting the Town of Carrboro and Arts Center
areas. She said the pinkish areas are shared space among all of the entities (e.g.: kitchen,
copy room, work room, etc.). She said the blue rooms are meeting rooms and these can be
rented out for events. She said the green roof will be designed to environmental standards,
including some elements of LEED design.
Jeff Thompson resumed the presentation:
Current Key Project milestones - Estimates
2018
• Oct. 25: Joint County/Town meeting:
o Designer presentation of schematic design
o Discussion by Boards at joint County/Town meeting
• Nov. 9: 45 day review period ends
• Late November: begin developmental design documents
March 2019
• March 1: Begin construction documents phase
• March 15: Anticipated staff approval of site permit documents
• March 18: 100% site work construction documents complete; 50% building construction
documents issued
Summer 2019
• June 19: Construction manager’s guaranteed maximum price (GMP) approved;
commence site construction
• July 12: Submit building permit
• Aug. 12: Anticipated permit approval of building documents; commence construction
2020
Sept. 12: Construction substantially complete
Commissioner Rich referred to use of the black box space, and asked if the County
would have to rent this space if it wanted to use it, since the County is paying for library space.
Lucinda Munger said that has yet to be determined, but the promise of this project is to
share spaces and the County envisions using that space maybe 3 times a year, during the day;
and they will continue to discuss this. She said this is the same with Parks and Recreation
spaces.
Commissioner Marcoplos asked if there is going to be a cost benefit study completed
regarding the installation of solar arrays on the roof.
Jeff Thompson said yes, and this is ongoing.
Chair Dorosin said the BOCC has a joint meeting with Carrboro on October 25th, and he
and Carrboro Mayor Lavelle plan to make this more like a work session with engaging dialogue.
Bonnie Hammersley said there will be a limited presentation on this project at that
meeting.
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b. Dental Health Services in Southern Orange County Proposal
The Board received a proposal highlighting potential options for dedicated dental health
services in southern Orange County.
BACKGROUND:
Prior to June 30, 2011, the Orange County Health Department Dental Clinic operated in two
locations. Services were offered two days per week at Carr Mill Mall in Carrboro and 2 ½ days
per week in Hillsborough. Because the annual rent for the space at Carr Mill Mall was
approximately $62,000 and the space was in great need of renovation, the Orange County
Board of Commissioners voted to close the Carr Mill Mall Clinic when the lease expired on June
30, 2011. The dental clinic located in Hillsborough was renovated to include eight dental chairs,
began operating five days per week, and continues to do so today.
Since the closure of the dental clinic in Carrboro, there has been a desire to bring back a dental
clinic to the southern part of the County by adding a permanent facility at the Southern Human
Services Center (SHSC) location. The upcoming renovation to the SHSC brings the opportunity
to make this possible. The attached presentation highlights expanding dental services via a
mobile dental clinic that would visit schools, community centers, and nursing homes two days
per week, and be located at SHSC 2 ½ days per week to deliver services.
FINANCIAL IMPACT: The chart below compares the financial impact to expenditures and
projected revenue for both the proposed permanent dental clinic at SHSC and the proposed
mobile dental clinic. The permanent clinic would be staffed with all new positions while the
mobile clinic would be staffed with shared positions from the Hillsborough clinic. The potential
decrease in revenue at the Hillsborough clinic would be recovered by revenue received through
the mobile clinic.
Financial Impact Table
Permanent Dental
Clinic Expenditure
Name
Permanent Dental
Clinic Expenditure Cost
Mobile Dental Clinic
Expenditure Name
Mobile Dental Clinic
Cost
Construction* $115,000 Vehicle Purchase*
(Equipment Included)
$456,825
New Staff (Dentist,
Hygienist, Dental
Assistant, Office
Assistant)
$355,443 New Staff (0.5 FTE
Driver/Office Assistant)
$47,412
Equipment (Medical,
Technological, and
Furniture)*
$139,158 Insurance, Maintenance,
and Fuel
$6,912
Supplies (Medical and
Office)
$30,000 Supplies (Medical and
Office)
$15,000
Other (Training,
Advertising, Interpreters,
Telephone, Repairs,
Uniforms)
$19,410 Other (Advertising,
Uniforms, Interpreters)
$3,800
Total Year 1 $659,011 Total Year 1 $529,949
Total Subsequent
Years
$404,853 Total Subsequent
Years
$70,324
Projected Annual
Revenue
$224,297 Projected Annual
Revenue
$103,169
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Quintana Stewart, Health Department Director, and Dr. Michael Day, Dental Director,
made the following PowerPoint presentation:
Dental Health Services in Southern Orange County
Quintana Stewart, Health Director
Dr. Michael Day, Dental Director
Background
Prior to June 30, 2011, Orange County Health Department Dental Clinic operated in two
locations – 2 days per week at Carr Mill Mall in Carrboro and 2 ½ days per week in
Hillsborough.
Carr Mill Mall Clinic closed when lease expired June 30, 2011.
Rent was $62,000/yr
Space needed lots of renovation
Carr Mill Mall clinic served 1,495 patients in the last year in operation
To absorb the former patients from the Carrboro Clinic, the Hillsborough Dental Clinic
was renovated to include 8 dental chairs and began operating 5 days per week and
continues to do so today.
Plans to add a dental clinic to the Southern Human Services site during their upcoming
renovations to reinstate health department dental services in the Southern part of the
County
Current Situation
39% of current patient population at Hillsborough Dental Clinic (1,199 patients) have a
mailing address in either Chapel Hill or Carrboro.
Dental Services in Orange:
Piedmont Health Services (x2)
UNC School of Dentistry
UNC SHAC (limited services)
Proposal
OCHD asks Commissioners to consider a change to proposed SHSC renovations to
include procurement of a Mobile Dental Clinic rather than the permanent build of a
dental clinic.
The mobile unit frees up additional needed space for DSS at SHSC
Allows for County Dental Services to be made available in Southern Orange as well as
other parts of the County
Expands the OCHD Dental Program
Dr. Day presented this portion of the PowerPoint:
Mobile Dental Clinic
• $456,825 (equipment included)
• 2 operatories, MSV Series 4000-37-102 (Matthews Specialty Vehicles)
• Staffing – Hillsborough Staff and 1 additional 0.5 FTE (Driver/Office Assistant)
Mobile Clinic Examples
• the mobile clinic would be fully branded, inside and out, as the Orange County Mobile
Dental Clinic
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• OCHD proposes a contest with the school systems to name the mobile clinic
Proposed Schedule & Services
2 days per week in the community
2 ½ days per week at SHSC
Procedures offered on Mobile Clinic (same as Hillsborough Clinic):
• Exams
• Cleanings
• Sealants
• Fluoride
• Fillings
• Extractions
• Simple Root Canals
Mobile Clinic in Community
2 Days Per Week on the Road to visit:
• Schools with highest number of children on free and reduced cost lunch
• OC and Chapel Hill Carrboro Head Starts
• Senior Centers and Community Centers (including the Northern part of county and areas
historically noted with access/transportation issues)
• Assisted living facilities and nursing homes with ambulatory patients
Mobile Clinic at SHSC
2 and ½ Days Per Week at SHSC
Will see patients in the mobile clinic while parked next to the medical clinic
Dedicated time for patients living in the southern part of Orange County
Quintana Stewart presented this portion of the PowerPoint:
Financial Impact-staff is the major impact (graph)
Opportunities
• Enhance community partnerships with Aging Community, Schools, local Head Start,
Community Centers, etc.
• Increase access to Dental Services throughout the County, not just in Southern part.
• Brand and promote OCHD Dental Program
• Fall into alignment with NC Oral Health Strategic Plan
(https://www.ncminorityhealth.org/data/documents/OralHealthEquity-9.24.18-WEB.pdf)
The Unknowns
• Transition of current 39% of Chapel Hill/Carrboro patients to SHSC for dental services,
leaving a decrease in patient volume in Hillsborough.
• Permanent Dental Clinic at SHSC volume considering current dental resources in
Southern Orange
• Ability to sustain Dental Staff at SHSC
Commissioner Price asked if the proposal is to pull staff from Hillsborough to operate the
mobile unit.
Quintana Stewart said there would be one dentist and one hygienist pulled, and a part
time driver and clerical staff hired.
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Commissioner Price asked if these staff will work 5 days on the mobile unit.
Quintana Stewart said the mobile unit will do two days at the SHSC and 2 days in the
community (e.g. schools).
Commissioner Price asked if one dentist and hygienist are enough.
Quintana Stewart said yes, as this will leave 1.5 full-time dentists in the Hillsborough
site.
Commissioner Price again asked if this is enough staff.
Commissioner Price asked if more staff would be needed if a permanent dental clinic
was built out at the Southern Human Services Center.
Quintana Stewart said yes, and she said they will offer the mobile unit option twice a
week at the SHSC, which will account for the 39% of people being seen in Hillsborough. She
said the hope is that it will all balance out.
Commissioner Price said she would assume that the need for extra staff would exist
regardless of whether it is a mobile unit or bricks and mortar. She said going into the
community may reach a larger portion of the population.
Quintana Stewart said the mobile unit would not be at school for a full 8-hour work day,
and there could still be time for the staff to come back to Hillsborough.
Commissioner McKee said he liked the idea of the mobile van. He asked if the current
operational capacity at Hillsborough is known.
Dr. Day said it is at 100% with two full-time dentists, three dental hygienists, and a GPR
resident that rotates in for 3 months. He said there is a fourth dentist on Wednesdays, and
there are 9 operatories, with all 9 are being used.
Commissioner McKee said he would hate to move staff to the mobile unit, and then in 6
months realize that additional staff has to be hired for Hillsborough.
Dr. Day said in Durham he would go on the mobile unit to a school until the buses
arrived for dismissal, at which time, he would return to the clinic and see patients for another 2.5
hours. He said the addition of the dental van would allow more children to be seen, and more
income is made seeing children than adults.
Commissioner McKee asked if there is any insight on how the County may compete with
Piedmont.
Dr. Day said that is why he thinks the mobile van is the better choice, as it would go in a
completely different direction. He said children cannot make it to the dental clinic, but many of
them need to be seen. He said Piedmont has a different model, and thus there would be little
competition.
Commissioner McKee referred to the comment that the mobile unit visiting the schools
would take the “parents out of the equation”, and he asked if more clarification could be given
regarding this comment.
Dr. Day said in Durham a packet of information was given to the schools to distribute to
the parents, and the parents could decide if they wanted their child to be seen. He said if a
parent agrees, the staff would see the child, send a treatment plan home with the child, and the
parent can then agree/disagree to the plan. He said this process allows for a parent to not miss
work in order to take a child to the dentist, but keeps the parent involved in the treatment plan.
Commissioner Jacobs said this is an interesting adaption and a good idea. He said the
BOCC has previously debated the merits of two dental services sites versus one, and the
decision was made to have it in Hillsborough because the BOCC made a specific commitment
to bring back dental services to the southern part of the County at some point. He said it would
be nice to have this information shared at the joint meeting with Carrboro next week, to show
that the BOCC has stuck to its commitment to bring services back.
Commissioner Jacobs said he understands why there is a lot of discussion about
schools, but the elderly are in equal need of services. He said it would be wise for the Health
Department to talk the Department on Aging to hopefully offer a better balance of services
21
Commissioner Rich said she was on the Chapel Hill Town Council during the
discussions about closing the clinic years ago, and she did make comments about the closing.
She said it is a good idea to make sure the towns know that it was a commitment from a prior
Board of County Commissioners to bring dental services back to the southern part of the
County. She said she also agreed with providing services for assisted livings and group homes.
Commissioner Burroughs said this is exciting, and she appreciated this item being
brought forward. She thinks it is a nimble solution that will serve many, as well as meet past
commitments made by the BOCC.
Commissioner Price appreciated this as well, and would encourage them to work with
the schools, in case the mobile unit needs to stay longer than 2:30 p.m.
Chair Dorosin said this is a great idea. He said there seems to be general Board
consensus to move forward, and asked if doing so would make more space available to the
Department of Social Services (DSS) in the SHSC.
Bonnie Hammersley said DSS has indicated it would like more space, and staff would
have to reevaluate the available space for all the departments.
c. Hurricane Florence Operations Review and Debriefing
The Board received a presentation and discussed the County’s preparedness, response,
recovery, and mitigation strategies during and following Hurricane Florence.
BACKGROUND:
The response to Hurricane Florence involved a multijurisdictional and interdepartmental effort to
ensure the safety of residents in Orange County. Although Orange County avoided widespread,
devastating impacts, the storm had significant localized impacts and tested the County’s
emergency response and recovery operations. Attachment 1 details the timeline of the storm
and the County’s response to it.
Preparedness
Starting on September 7, Emergency Services began closely monitoring what would become
Hurricane Florence. During this time, Emergency Services communicated with key response
partners and provided situational reporting. On September 9, Emergency Services activated the
Severe Weather Annex of the County’s Emergency Operations Plan. The Emergency
Operations Center was partially activated on September 10, and the Chair of the Board of
Commissioners signed a State of Emergency Declaration.
On September 11, 2018, the County held a department directors meeting to discuss the
potential timing, intensity, and impacts of Hurricane Florence. Department directors reviewed
internal communications, facility vulnerability and capacity, potential alternative work sites, fuel
availability, and cost accounting practices. Department directors also discussed a public
communications strategy, vulnerable areas in the community, potential mass care sheltering,
and areas where residents could access cooling and electricity in the event of prolonged,
widespread power disruptions. The Department of Social Services in cooperation with
Emergency Services also began pre-storm shelter activation, and a public information line was
activated for residents seeking information about the storm and potential sheltering needs.
On September 12, approximately forty-eight hours before the storm’s projected landfall, Orange
County remained in the forecast of probable impacts. The Emergency Operations Center began
twenty-four (24) hour activation with all emergency support functions represented. The County
proactively opened two no barrier, pet friendly mass care shelters at 6:00 PM at Stanford and
Smith Middle Schools. The shelters were staffed by the Department of Social Services, the
Health Department, and Animal Services.
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Response Operations
The County suspended nonessential operations starting at 1:00 PM on Thursday, September 13
and for the entire day on Friday, September 14.
The County established several forms of communication for residents to remain informed and
diligent during the storm. Along with the public information phone line, the County set up a
website for storm related information and actively used social media to push messages to the
public. Frequently asked questions were prepared in English, Spanish, Burmese, and Karen.
A text alert system was also created. Text messages are the most reliable mode of
communication during power outages and corresponding internet connection disruptions. This
service had a total of 4,300 subscribers by the end of the storm event. A survey of
approximately 400 subscribers indicated that ninety-eight percent (98%) would recommend the
service to a friend or neighbor.
By September 14, the primary storm had shifted away from Orange County. The County
received some gusty winds and heavy bands of rain that largely resulted in localized power
outages. During this time, the two shelters were occupied by approximately two hundred
individuals. However, as the relatively minor impacts of the storm became clear, the shelter
population quickly decreased. By the time the shelters were closed on September 16, less than
fifteen individuals were residing in them.
The County also supported the State sponsored mass care shelter at the UNC Friday Center for
residents from other parts of the State that were impacted by the Hurricane. The County
primarily provided emergency medical service staffing to the shelter population that reached a
capacity of five hundred (500) individuals during the storm event.
Heavy rain started again on Sunday, September 16 and Monday, September 17. The rainfall
intensity peaked at 7:00 AM on Monday at rates of five (5) to six (6) inches per hour. This rain
prompted additional power disruptions, road closures, and the evacuation of residents in the
flood prone areas of southern Orange County. These evacuations resulted in the reactivation of
sheltering operations at Hillsborough Commons.
Recovery Operations
The County continues to refine both public and private damage assessment estimates to
determine eligibility for disaster assistance. The County is using a web based tool called Crisis
Track that allows residents to report damage and request follow-up.
Although the Hillsborough Commons shelter was closed, several families and individuals remain
unable to return to their apartments. The Department of Social Services continues to provide
hotel accommodations and support to obtain new clothing, personal items, and furniture.
County departments and other public safety agencies engaged in deployments to areas of the
State most affected by Hurricane Florence. The Department of Social Services is providing food
and nutrition screening for Scotland County. The Sheriff’s Office responded to three mutual aid
missions. South Orange Rescue Squad deployed to one mission. The Orange Rural Fire
Department assisted on two missions, and the Chapel Hill Fire Department and Public Works
Department each deployed on one mission.
Lessons Learned and Mitigation
23
As part of the debriefing process, County departments have identified several lessons and
opportunities for improvement and future mitigation.
• Reassessment of mass care shelter needs and readiness
o During sheltering operations, County staff noted the need to improve some
facility elements and refine how care is provided to medically fragile or vulnerable
individuals. Long term sheltering operations will also require a more robust
staffing plan.
• Personnel policies for exempt, essential employees
o The County’s shelters were largely staffed by exempt employees who do not
receive additional compensation for hours worked during a suspension of
nonessential operations. The County will review this policy for fairness and
consistency.
• Policy for media access in shelters
o The County was asked by several media outlets to enter the shelters and
interview shelter residents. The County will refine and codify its policy for media
access so that shelter managers can provide clear guidance.
• Expectations of Community Centers
o The County’s three community centers are capable of providing respite following
a severe weather event. However, these expectations are not outlined in the
Center’s operating agreements. The County needs to define and communicate
consistent expectations across the centers as well as evaluate the Centers’ role
in the County’s severe weather communications strategy.
• Flood Prone Area Assessment and Mitigation
o The County has identified several flood prone areas that consistently flood during
heavy rainfalls. The most significant risks are located in the Town of Chapel Hill.
Responding to this consistent flooding consumes significant public resources.
The County will work with the Town to develop mitigation strategies for these
areas.
FINANCIAL IMPACT: The County is continuing to gather information regarding the cost of
emergency protective measures and damage to public and private property. Current estimates
suggest the cost of protective measures to be approximately $2.4 million, damage to public
property to be over $1.4 million, and private damage to approach $500,000.
Travis Myren made the following PowerPoint presentation:
Hurricane Florence Operations Review and Debriefing
October 16, 2018
Timeline of Storm Forecast and Impacts- table
Storm Preparation
• Declaration of State of Emergency
o Issued by the Chair of the Board of Orange County Commissioners
o Orders all County Personnel to Cooperate to Execute the Emergency Operations
Plan
o Formally Activates the Emergency Operations Center
o Authorizes Manager to Implement Prohibitions, Restrictions, Evacuations, and
Curfews to Maintain Order and Protect Lives and Property
• Department Head Planning Meeting
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o County Operations
Review Internal Communications Protocol
Review Facility Vulnerability and Capacity
– Identify and Shore Flood Prone Facilities
– Test Emergency Power
Identify Alternative Work Sites
Review Emergency Fuel Policies
Name Essential Personnel
Cancel Discretionary Leave for Essential Personnel
Non-Essential Operations Suspended
– Thursday, September 13 - Half Day - $91,760
– Friday, September 14 - Full Day - $183,517
o Community Safety and Communications
Review Public Communications Modes and Strategies
Prepare Mass Care Shelters
Work with Respite Centers on Hours of Operation
• Emergency Operations Center
o Epicenter of Emergency Coordination
o Partial Activation - September 10th and 11th
o Full Twenty Four (24) Hour Activation – September 12th
Organized by Emergency Support Function (ESF)
Emergency Operations Center Organizational Chart (flowchart)
Sheltering Operations - no barrier shelters – clients go through a registration process and
Orange County follows the American Red Cross standards but staff has not compiled data on
which neighborhoods clients come from but they focused on the areas that are prominent for
flooding and their shelters are on public transportation lines and at public schools and also DSS
for the rain event on Monday. They activated shelters pre-storm which was helpful.
Sheltering Operations-photo
Charles W. Stanford Middle School, Hillsborough
• Opened 9/12 at 6:00 p.m.
• Peak population of 45 individuals
• Closed 9/16 at noon
• Town Hall meetings for weather and service information
• Information provided in four languages
• Pet friendly: 4 dogs, 2 rabbits
Sheltering Operations-photo
Smith Middle School, Chapel Hill
• Opened 9/12 at 6:00 p.m.
• Peak population of 123 individuals
• Closed 9/16 at noon
• Town Hall meetings for weather and service information
• Information provided in four languages
• Pet friendly: 13 dogs, 2 cats, 2 rabbits
Sheltering Options – photo
Hillsborough Commons
25
• Opened 9/17 at 3:00 p.m. (Monday)
• Peak population of 15 individuals
• Closed 9/21 at 2:00 p.m. (Friday)
• Pet friendly: no pets required shelter
Sheltering Operations
• Shelter Staffing
o Department of Social Services & Health Department
122 Twelve Hour Shifts
– Supervisors and Managers
– Social Workers
– Public Health Nurses
– Environmental Health Specialists
Contracted with Nurse Aide
– Personal Care and Mobility
o Animal Services
29 Twelve Hour Shifts
– Program Coordinator
– Office Staff
– Animal Control Officers
– Community Emergency Response Volunteers
• State Shelter - UNC Friday Center
o Shelter Designed for Evacuees of Impacted Areas
State Contracted with Red Cross to Manage
Reached 500 Person Capacity on 9/17
o County Staff Support
Ambulance 9/15-9/19
Three personnel on a 24 Hour Basis
Provided Essential Medical Supplies and Coordinated Oxygen Delivery
Established Rely MD Service for Online Medical Evaluations and
Prescriptions – No Cost
o UNC Hospital Provided Prescription Medication at No Cost
o Pet Care Provided by NCSU Veterinarian
OC Animal Services Available for Large Dogs
o Sheltering Operations
Communications
• County Website
o Hurricane Florence Page - 4,100 Page Views
o Emergency Preparedness Page – 3,500 Page Views
o Road Closure Page – 9,000 Page Views
• OC Facebook & Twitter
o Experienced More Than 10% Increase in Followers and Page Likes
o Almost 50 Posts & Facebook Alerts During the Storm
o Tweeted or Re-tweeted More than 100 Times
o 7,900 Visits and 11,000 Page Views in September
Compared to 1,300 Visits and 2,600 Page Views in October
• OCSTORM Text Notification Service
o Text Subscription Service through OC Alerts
o Most Reliable Communication During Power Interruptions
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o More than 4,300 Subscribers by End of Storm Event
o 25 Notifications on Shelters, Safety Measures, and Weather Threats
• OCSTORM Survey
o 416 Survey Responses or 9.6% of Subscribers
o 98% of Respondents Would Recommend to Friend or Neighbor
Documented Flooding and/or Flood Damage Locations Unincorporated Orange County
(map)
Flood Prone Areas and Planning
Exposure to the 1-Percent-Annual-Chance (100-year) Flood (chart)
Flood Prone Areas and Planning
Exposure to the 0.2 Percent-Annual-Chance (500-year) Flood (chart)
Flood Prone Areas and Planning
Repetitive Loss Properties by Jurisdiction (chart)
Estes Drive (photo)
Eastgate (photo)
Camelot Village Condominiums (photo)
Flood Prone Areas and Mitigation
• Camelot Village Condominiums
– Constructed in 1967 Inside Bolin Creek Floodway
• Before Floodplain Management Regulations in Chapel Hill
– Condominium Ownership – Rented to Non-Owners
– Affordable Housing Units
• 32 Housing Choice Voucher Units
– Divided Between Eight (8) Landlords
• 18 Voucher Units Impacted
• 12 Residents Receiving Temporary Housing Support from County
Countywide Initial Damage Assessment
• Cost of Emergency Protective Measures
– $2.4 Million
• Public Facility and Property Damage
– $1.4 Million
– Private Property Damage
– Commercial Property - $471,000
• 34 Businesses Reported Physical Damage
– Residential Property - $1.7 Million residential
• 109 Units – Including 64 Camelot Apartments
Recovery Operations
• FEMA Major Disaster Declaration
– Public Assistance (PA) – Undeclared
• Emergency Protective Measures
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• Damage to Public Facilities and Property
– Individual Assistance (IA) – Declared October 14th
• Uninsured Losses
• Temporary Housing and Replacement Assistance
– Disaster Supplemental Food and Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)
• Eligibility Broadened to Account for Storm Related Losses
• Department of Social Services to Administer
– Small Business Administration Support
• Ongoing Housing Support
– Residents of Camelot Village Apartments
– Ten Families at University Inn Hotel
– Sixteen Individuals
– Three Cats
– One Dog
• $12,000 Expended as of October 8th
• Reimbursable Expense with Public Assistance Emergency Declaration
• Cost Sharing Discussions with Chapel Hill if not Reimbursed
– One Family with Disabilities Housed at Red Roof Inn
Lessons Learned and Planning for the Future
• Mass Care Shelter Needs and Readiness
o Reassess County Facilities
o Medically Fragile Residents
o Staffing Plans – Expand Responsibilities
o Review Compensation for Essential Staff- exempt and non-exempt and
treat similar staff the same during an event; probably a workgroup to
discuss and provide recommendations
Bonnie Hammersley said another policy issue to address is the reimbursement of hours.
She said exempt employees do not get paid, and it may be necessary to create emergency
exempt employees. She said department directors determine who is an essential employee
during a particular event.
Commissioner Marcoplos asked if there is anyway to understand the cost to the flood
prone areas in Chapel Hill: Eastgate, Bolin Creek, Booker Creek, etc. He said it would be
helpful to understand the entire cost to the community, such as lost wages and economic
impacts for all events over the years. He said it may be worth considering what it costs to turn
Eastgate into a lake, and potentially redesign that whole area. He said he would like that
information.
Commissioner Jacobs said they are critical of beach communities that allow residents to
continue to build in areas that are repeatedly damaged; yet there is the same issue in some of
the communities here. He said those most affected locally are those of low wealth. He said this
is a repetitive failure.
Commissioner Rich said she spoke to the Chapel Hill Mayor, and the Town is trying to
fix some of the areas that are flood prone. She said the County should reach out to them to get
some type of report/update.
Commissioner Jacobs said it has to be a public health issue to live in a place that is
repeatedly flooded.
Commissioner Marcoplos said a lake would be a benefit to the community, and would
turn a constant problem into a nice feature.
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Commissioner Price said as radical as that may sound, a large mall in Ohio was turned
into a park, etc.
Travis Myren resumed the presentation:
• Policy for Media Access in Shelters
o Codify Policy for Access and Content
• Define Expectations of Community Centers
o Operating Agreements and Communications Strategy
• Continuity of Operations Plan Exercises
o Finance and Payroll
• Continue Emergency Operations Center and Incident Command System (ICS) Training
• Continue to Review and Study Flood Prone Areas and Mitigation Strategies
• Collaborate and Provide Support to Chapel Hill on Mitigation for Camelot Village
Apartments
– Mitigation Strategies
o FEMA Committed Funds Twice for Buyout
o Future Buyout/Other Mitigation – Town Leadership with County
Supporting
– Lessons Learned and Planning for Future
Questions and Discussion
Commissioner Rich said the communication throughout Florence was great, but not as
much for Michael. She asked if lessons learned from preparations for Florence can carry over
to a Michael-type event, especially in regards to communication.
Chair Dorosin said he does not think these two events are comparable.
Commissioner Rich said she understands that, and maybe she is asking for more
communication in an event like Michael.
Chair Dorosin asked if, when looking at staffing issues, would it be possible to have a
fund to supplement salaries during emergency events; a stipend of sorts.
Commissioner Price said as colder weather begins, it would be helpful to look at more
vulnerable areas, and egress and ingress of certain roads. She said it would also be good to
look at the community centers more closely.
Travis Myren said the community center managers were very cooperative during
hurricanes Florence and Michael.
Commissioner Jacobs said hurricane Florence moved very slowly, while Michael
moved at a rapid speed. He said there was pet sheltering during these two events, which the
County instituted after Hurricane Katrina.
Commissioner Rich asked if everyone has power on in Orange County.
Travis Myren said yes.
Commissioner McKee said the response of the County personnel was exemplary, as
well as that of the power crews.
8. Consent Agenda
• Removal of Any Items from Consent Agenda
8-h: Commissioner Rich and Jacobs
8-f: Commissioner Marcoplos
• Approval of Remaining Consent Agenda
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A motion was made by Commissioner McKee, seconded by Commissioner Price to
approve the remaining items on the consent agenda.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
• Discussion and Approval of the Items Removed from the Consent Agenda
f. Triangle Water Supply Partnership Memorandum of Agreement
The Board considered entering into a Memorandum of Agreement with Triangle local
government jurisdictions and their water supply authorities to create a successor to the Jordan
Lake Partnership, to be called the Triangle Water Supply Partnership, a regional water supply
planning organization, and authorize the County Manager to sign.
Commissioner Marcoplos said having served on the OWASA board during the drought in
2002, he came to realize what a great utility OWASA is, and it did the best job in the state of
saving water. He said a few years ago OWASA was using the same amount of water as it did in
2000. He said he always thought this was the case because Orange County really did a good
job and took it seriously. He said OWASA is a unique jewel of a utility, and he has always been
sensitive to what may happen to take power away from local control over OWASA. He said this
memorandum has brought up a lot of questions: why change the name and how this new
agreement is different from the Jordan Lake partnership; why are Chapel Hill and Carrboro not
participants.
Howard Fleming, Engineering Storm Water Supervisor, said he has been attending the
Jordan Lake Partnership (JLP) meetings for months, and he was in on the formation of this
particular agreement. He said the JLP was formed to develop the Triad Regional Water Supply
Plan to divide up the water for Jordan Lake, and this has been accomplished. He said this was
so successful that the desire of the group was to continue on but with a different mission, and
he said this is the outcome of that. He said the main focus was on water infrastructure, so the
thought was to reconfigure under a different name. He said Orange County is the last
government to sign onto this, and this name has really taken effect already.
Howard Fleming said the large projects on page 32 are envisioned to be the main thrust
of the group.
Commissioner Marcoplos said this does not sound like anything new; there has always
been a collaborative approach.
Howard Fleming said yes, since the droughts in 2007/8. He said modeling how that
works, and coming up with a trading and communication framework which has not been well
prepared and is still being refined. He said Orange County is not a water purveyor, per se, but
he thinks the BOCC will want to support such efforts between all the different purveyors and
governments in the area to provide reliability and sustainability to the system.
Commissioner Marcoplos recognized that OWASA has agreed to it.
Commissioner Marcoplos said he had a strong desire to raise the issue of autonomy,
and to be alert for such phrases as, “water resources are a regional asset.”
Commissioner Jacobs said if Commissioner Marcoplos needs more time to examine this
agreement, he would suggest deferring this item for one meeting.
Commissioner Marcoplos asked if there are differences between the two partnerships.
Howard Fleming said the JLP will cease to exist, and it is a new name with a different
focus. He said the focus of the JLP was the water supply percentages, which continues to be a
piece of the new partnership, as it has to be reviewed every 5 years.
Commissioner Marcoplos said he will agree to move forward on this.
Commissioner Price asked if Johnston and Harnett are new entities to the partnership.
Howard Fleming said yes.
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Commissioner Rich asked if Johnston and Harnett counties would get a percent of
Jordan Lake.
Howard Fleming said he is not sure that these two counties have an allocation.
Commissioner Rich clarified that when the allocations are reviewed, that these two
counties will not be part of the process.
Howard Fleming said he cannot answer that question.
John Roberts said several entities are members to this partnership because they provide
water, or have water operations, within the triangle region. He said this is a regional agreement.
He said he does not believe that Harnett and Johnston counties draw from Jordan Lake.
Commissioner Rich said it just change the scope of the original Jordan Lake agreement.
Commissioner Marcoplos asked if there is any mechanism for the members of this
organization to set higher standards for water conservation across all the membership.
Bonnie Hammersley suggested deferring this item to the next meeting.
h. Unified Animal Control Ordinance Amendments
The Board considered approval of amendments to the Unified Animal Control Ordinance
and adoption of the Resolution of Amendment Amending Chapter 4 of the Orange County Code
of Ordinances, in order to primarily clarify issues identified by the Orange County Animal
Services’ Advisory Board and County Attorney’s Office, and authorizing the Chair to sign.
Commissioner Rich said she had some residents call her about this, and especially
about the 18 month waiting period to get a dog out of jail, versus losing an appeal, hiring an
attorney and going to Superior Court to get a dog out of jail in 6 months. She said this seems
and unbalanced solution.
John Roberts said only a couple of other counties offer this reprieve from the local
determination, and there were staff reasons for this to be 18 months rather than 12 months. He
said for the confinement portion of it, there is not always an inspection by 12 months later, and
there needs to be adequate time to observe whether a dog will reoffend or not.
Commissioner Rich asked if there is a reason that an inspection would not occur within
12 months; and are too many inspections being done.
Bob Marotto, Animal Services Director, said it is not the quantity of the inspections, but
the rather the schedule of the inspections. He said there is an initial inspection, followed by an
inspection every year thereafter, in accordance with the ordinance. He said the thought was
that it would be beneficial to know that for that year, there was complete compliance with the
requirements for keeping the animal as a dangerous animal under the ordinance. He said there
would need to be some confidence in the compliance before taking the step that has previously
been unavailable in Orange County, and most other jurisdictions in the state, by offering the
reprieve.
Commissioner Rich said someone with money can get their dog out within 6 months, by
hiring an attorney and going to superior court; but those of means, or with a lack of
understanding of the system, has to wait 18 months. She said it is unbalanced.
Bob Marotto said the Superior Court option is the second step in the appeal process that
exists under the ordinance. He said the first step in the appeal process, is the appeal that is
made to the Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool, which is available to anyone with no fees, and
can involve an attorney is so desired. He said the second step is to go Superior Court, and
does not happen very often.
Commissioner Rich said 18 months is too long, and this is not a fair solution. She said
she would not vote for this.
Bob Marotto said the intent of this is to offer people an opportunity to go beyond the
restrictions imposed on dangerous animals, which is something that does not currently exist, in
any form or fashion, in Orange County. He said that is a huge step forward, and he said the
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BOCC has the flexibility to go with a year as opposed to 18 months. He said the 18 months just
allows for extra protection to make sure an animal is really ready to do no harm.
Commissioner Rich said she would favor a year. She asked if this could apply
retroactively.
Anne Marie Tosco, Staff Attorney, said the intent is for this to apply retroactively, but
more specific language can be added.
Commissioner Rich said she would like to see this language added.
Commissioner Jacobs asked if these court proceedings are rigorous.
Anne Marie Tosco said this is a bench trial, where the rules of evidence and civil
procedure apply; the County is represented, etc. She said there has only been 3 or 4 of these
brought forward since the unified ordinance, and only one that has gone to trial on the merits.
Commissioner Jacobs suggested that one of the County attorneys prepare a document
that tells residents how to do an appeal.
Bob Marotto said this already exists with respect to the quasi-judicial appeal conducted
by the Animal Services Hearing Panel pool. He said his department is very thorough in
explaining this appeal process, as well as the availability of the second step in the appeal
process.
Commissioner Jacobs asked if there is any guidance provided once one gets to court.
Anne Marie Tosco said as attorney representing the County that would be a violation of
attorney ethical rules.
Commissioner Jacobs said he means before any dog is charged; more like a primer on
how the process can proceed.
John Roberts said his office can help staff to prepare a document to provide to the
public.
Chair Dorosin said residents have their dogs during the appeals process, and need to
make sure that the dog does not get out and hurt anyone. He said public safety is an important
matter, and he is less concerned about the timing. He said there are two sides to the story, and
a balance between the aggressors and the victims. He suggested it may be wise to defer this
item also.
Commissioner Rich said she would like to pull the item in order to address the issue of
retroactivity. She asked if there is a place where the inspections are described.
Bob Marotto said yes.
Commissioner Jacobs asked if animals that are raised for fighting are handled the same
way.
Anne Marie Tosco said the ordinance does not address fighting animals, except in the
cruelty provisions.
Commissioner Jacobs said Animal Control officers have the authority to enter onto and
inspect, and asked if an animal that is subjected to cruelty included animals that are being made
to fight.
Anne Marie Tosco said yes.
Bob Marotto said it may also be that they have an animal that is without water on a hot
day. He said there are a variety of forms of mistreatment.
Commissioner Jacobs said there are enough instances of fighting dogs, and they should
be able to go on the property to prevent cruel treatment, which includes being raised for fighting
purposes.
Anne Marie Tosco said her only hesitation to clarifying that is just the statutory
construction, but she can work on this.
Commissioner Price said would like to hear reasons for 12 months versus 18 months.
This Item was deferred.
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a. Minutes
The Board will consider correcting and/or adopting the minutes from September 4, 6 and 20,
2018 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 two taxpayers with a total of two bills that will result in a reduction of
revenue in accordance with NCGS.
c. Property Tax Releases/Refunds
The Board adopted a resolution, which is incorporated by reference, to release property tax
values for twenty-four (24) taxpayers with a total of thirty-two (32) bills that will result in a
reduction of revenue, accordance with North Carolina General Statute 105-381.
d. Applications for Property Tax Exemption/Exclusion
The Board considered eight untimely applications for exemption/exclusion from ad valorem
taxation for eight bills for the 2018 tax year.
e. Board of Commissioners Meeting Calendar for Year 2019
The Board approved of the meeting schedule for the Board of County Commissioners for
calendar year 2019.
f. Triangle Water Supply Partnership Memorandum of Agreement
DEFERRED
g. Assignment of Leasehold Interest to Chapel Hill Carrboro City Schools
The Board assigned to Chapel Hill Carrboro City Schools (CHCCS) any and all rights and
interest in cellular antenna leases that were acquired as part of a prior bond financing in which
CHCCS deeded Culbreth Middle School (Culbreth) to the County and granted access
easements to those cellular antennas, and authorize the County Manager to execute the
agreement documents.
h. Unified Animal Control Ordinance Amendments
DEFERRED
i. Fiscal Year 2018-19 Budget Amendment #2
The Board approved budget and grant project ordinance amendments for fiscal year 2018-19 to
Animal Services; Department on Aging; Cedar Grove Fire Department; Solid Waste Enterprise
Fund; and Technical Amendment.
j. Application for North Carolina Education Lottery Proceeds for Chapel Hill – Carrboro
City Schools (CHCCS) and Contingent Approval of Budget Amendment #2-A Related
to CHCCS Capital Project Ordinances
The Board approved an application to the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction
(NCDPI) to release proceeds from the NC Education Lottery account related to FY 2018-19 debt
service payments for Chapel Hill – Carrboro City Schools (CHCCS), and approved Budget
Amendment #2-A (amended School Capital Project Ordinances), contingent on the NCDPI’s
approval of the application.
k. North Carolina Governor’s Highway Safety Program: Orange County Sheriff’s Office
Traffic Safety Project and Approval of Budget Amendment #2-B
The Board adopted a resolution, incorporated by reference, accepting federal funding for traffic
safety projects for the Sheriff’s Office; authorize the Chair to sign the Resolution; and approved
Budget Amendment #2-B for receipt of the funds.
l. Proclamation Recognizing Katherine Cheek:
The Board considered voting to approve a proclamation recognizing and expressing gratitude to
Katherine “Kat” Thompson Wilkerson-Cheek for her devotion and service to the people of
Orange County.
9. County Manager’s Report
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Bonnie Hammersley said the environmental impact statement discussion will be on the
November 8th work session.
Bonnie Hammersley said next Thursday, October 25th the Board has a joint meeting
with Carrboro.
Bonnie Hammersley said the Economic Development Summit scheduled for
Wednesday, October 17th has changed locations, due to a scheduling conflict, and will now be
at the WCHL radio studios at University Place.
10. County Attorney’s Report
John Roberts said the General Assembly directed local governments to provide a guide
to all ordinances that provide for criminal enforcement, and that a violation of those ordinances
is a class 3 misdemeanor, and a fine from $50-$500. He said this is due, on December 1, to the
legislative committee studying the issue. He said it is his experience that when the legislature
does that with a local government issue, that within a year or two, they make changes that lead
to a lot of confusion.
11. *Appointments
a. Orange Unified Transportation Board – Appointments
The Board considered making appointments to the Orange Unified Transportation
Board.
A motion was made by Commissioner Price, seconded by Commissioner Rich to appoint
Ramchandra Athavale to Position 4 BOCC Selection Chapel Hill Township First Full Term
09/30/2021.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
A motion was made by Commissioner McKee, to nominate Bonnie Hauser to Position 1
BOCC Selection Bingham Township First Full Term 09/30/2021.
VOTE: Ayes, 1 (Commissioner McKee): Nays, 6
Motion fails.
A motion was made by Commissioner Rich to appoint Randy Marshall to Position 1
BOCC Selection Bingham Township First Full Term 09/30/2021.
VOTE: Ayes, 6; Nays, 1 (Commissioner McKee)
• Position 7 BOCC Selection Little River Township (no applications at this time) First Full
Term 09/30/2021- NO APPLICANTS
Commissioner McKee said these have only been open since September 30, 2018.
A motion was made by Commissioner Price:
• Johanna Birckmayer, Position 10 BOCC Selection At-Large First Full Term 09/30/2021;
• Amy Cole to Position 12 BOCC Selection At-Large First Full Term 09/30/2021 and
• Todd Jones to Position 14 BOCC Selection At-Large Partial Term 09/30/2019.
A motion was made by Commissioner Marcoplos to appoint:
• Erik Broo to Position 10 BOCC Selection At-Large First Full Term 09/30/2021.
A motion was made by Commissioner Jacobs to appoint:
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• Scott Radway to Position 12 BOCC Selection At-Large First Full Term 09/30/2021.
Chair Dorosin said since there were multiple nominations (5 for 3 seats) that Board
members write down their top three choices and give to him and the top three vote getters
would get the three positions.
VOTES: (the top three vote “getters”)
• Johanna Birckmayer for Position 10 BOCC Selection At-Large First Full Term
09/30/2021
• Amy Cole for to Position 12 BOCC Selection At-Large First Full Term 09/30/2021
• Erik Broo for Position 14 BOCC Selection At-Large Partial Term 09/30/2019
12. Information Items
• September 20, 2018 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
• Mebane 2040 Comprehensive Transportation Plan
• SPOT 5.0 Division Needs Local Input Points – TARPO and DCHC MPO
13. Closed Session
A motion was made by Commissioner Price, seconded by Commissioner Burroughs to
go into closed session at 10:38 p.m. for the purposes below:
“To discuss the County’s position and to instruct the County Manager and County Attorney on
the negotiating position regarding the terms of a contract to purchase real property,” NCGS §
143-318.11(a)(5).
“Pursuant to G.S. § 143-318.11(a)(3) "to consult with an attorney retained by the Board in order
to preserve the attorney-client privilege between the attorney and the Board.”
Closed Session Minutes
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
RECONVENE INTO REGULAR SESSION
A motion was made by Commissioner Price, seconded by Commissioner Burroughs to
reconvene into regular session at 11:15 p.m.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
14. Adjournment
A motion was made by Commissioner Marcoplos, seconded by to Commissioner
Burroughs adjourn the meeting at 11:15 p.m.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
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Mark Dorosin, Chair
Donna Baker
Clerk to the Board