HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 02-16-2021 Virtual Business Meeting 1
APPROVED 3/16/21
MINUTES
ORANGE COUNTY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
VIRTUAL BUSINESS MEETING
FEBRUARY 16, 2021
7:00 p.m.
The Orange County Board of Commissioners met for a Virtual Business Meeting on Tuesday,
February 16, 2021 at 7:00 p.m.
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Chair Renee Price, Vice Chair Jamezetta Bedford,
and Commissioners Amy Fowler, Jean Hamilton, Sally Greene, and Earl McKee
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS ABSENT: Mark Dorosin
COUNTY ATTORNEYS PRESENT: John Roberts
COUNTY STAFF PRESENT: County Manager Bonnie Hammersley, Deputy County Manager
Travis Myren, and Clerk to the Board Laura Jensen. (All other staff members will be identified
appropriately below)
Chair Price called the meeting to order at 7:01 p.m.
A roll call was called; all members were present except for Commissioner Dorosin.
Due to current public health concerns, the Board of Commissioners is conducting a Virtual
Business Meeting on Tuesday, February 16, 2021. Members of the Board of Commissioners
participated in the meeting remotely. As in prior meetings, members of the public were able to
view and listen to the meeting via live streaming video at
http://www.orangecountync.gov/967/Meeting-Videos and on Orange County Gov-TV on
channels 1301 or 97.6 (Spectrum Cable).
In this new virtual process, there are two methods for public comment.
• Written submittals by email
• Speaking during the virtual meeting
Detailed public comment instructions for each method are provided at the bottom of this
agenda. (Pre-registration is required.)
1. Additions or Changes to the Agenda
The County Manager said a new abstract was sent out earlier in the day, for item 8-e,
because of a change in the contract cost due to bonding needs for the fiber contract.
Chair Price dispensed with reading the public charge.
Public Charge: The Board of Commissioners pledges its respect to all present. The Board
asks those attending this meeting to conduct themselves in a respectful, courteous manner
toward each other, county staff and the commissioners. At any time should a member of the
Board or the public fails to observe this charge, the Chair will take steps to restore order and
decorum. Should it become impossible to restore order and continue the meeting, the Chair will
recess the meeting until such time that a genuine commitment to this public charge is observed.
The BOCC asks that all electronic devices such as cell phones, pagers, and computers should
please be turned off or set to silent/vibrate. Please be kind to everyone.
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Arts Moment— No Arts Moment was available for this meeting.
2. Public Comments
a. Matters not on the Printed Agenda
Janine Zanin read the following comments:
My name is Janine Zanin and I live in Efland. First, I want to thank you for the effort and
careful consideration that you gave to your deliberations on the Efland Station proposal. I
appreciate the way you examined the representations made by the developer about phase 2
prospects, electric charging stations, and whether the "park-at-the-pump" model was necessary
given the 500+ parking spots for travelers.
The developers' responses revealed that they were not the kind of good faith community
collaborator they held themselves out to be and, of course, they ultimately decided that they
would rather walk away from the deal than be held accountable to their representations. It also
became clear to me that THIS Board of County Commissioners is invested in making good
decisions about land use in our part of the county. My recent experiences with county
government leading up to that meeting had left me with some doubt.
Now, I know that many of my neighbors did NOT take away the same impressions from
your deliberations. At the same time, a pivotal moment for me was observing what happened
when you made the decision to restrict additional public comment on the project. Efland
residents still got up to speak, but when they had to speak in generalities instead of speaking
about the Efland Station project, it was easy to see that although we had different opinions
about Buc-ee's, we shared many of the same desires for our community. That is, we want
responsible development that serves the citizens of Efland and we feel we've been overlooked
and ignored for far too long. I think that one gentleman said something along the lines of "we
want you to shine us up a bit." There also seems to be clear consensus that we are looking for
something beyond windowless warehouses.
I'm concerned that through its narrow vision of land use planning in this part of the
county, and poor communication, that knowingly or unknowingly, the Planning Department has
pitted us against each other to accomplish the agenda of the planning director without regard to
the opinions of duly elected public officials or Orange County citizens.
The less than transparent communication and notice surrounding the Buckhorn Area
Plan has been divisive, at times attempting to pit the City of Mebane v. Orange County,
residential v. non-residential development, citizens vs. elected officials, incorporated towns vs.
unincorporated areas. This either/or view is mainly a symptom of a lack of vision around
Economic Development, a lack of creativity, and years of passive or reactive planning. Citizens
in this area are energized and want to be proactive. There are land-owners who want to sell or
lease their property. Let's come together and move beyond the singular focus on "big game
hunting" that has come at the expense of ignoring other local community development needs.
It doesn't represent the complete picture of a good quality of life for citizens in Western Orange
County.
Later tonight, you'll hear about the Buckhorn Area Plan, a study that from its inception
had one goal and ONLY one goal in mind: expand the boundaries of the Buckhorn Economic
Development District to facilitate more big industrial development. That is, by definition, it was
not an objective land use study. In public meetings with the City of Mebane our planning
director has consistently repeated that the uses they are looking for are large industrial uses.
There's nothing within the plan to definitively limit those uses along the banks of Seven Mile
Creek, next door to residential properties, on land that's currently designated critically protected
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watershed, on the land surrounding our public middle school, and nothing to limit turning West
Ten Road into a tractor trailer by-pass of the weigh station. Finally, the plan ULTIMATELY
demonstrated that the MOST SUITABLE PARCELS for industrial development are ALREADY
IN OUR EDD. If county staff and our elected officials want to do more big game hunting, they
should focus their efforts there.
Margo Lakin read the following comments:
Good Evening, my name is Margo Lakin and I live in Hillsborough.
In the past eight months, I've seen proposals for a 2.5 million square foot logistics
warehouse surrounded by residential homes and a 120-nozzle gas station on a critical
watershed make their way from the Planning Advisory Board to the BOCC. And now, the
citizens are faced with the Buckhorn Area Plan to facilitate industrial development on a much
larger scale.
I'm getting a clear message from our planning process that western Orange County's
future is fast tracked to become nothing more than an industrial brownfield. Projects fall under
the lowest tiers of development (for example warehouses). And the wants and needs of the
community and the safety of the environment often take a back seat to taxes. That's not
progress.
Where's the diversity and imagination in these projects? Where's the sustainable and
progressive development for our neck of the woods? When do we get libraries and grocery
stores and community-based facilities to improve our towns? When will imagination, creative
thinking, and forethought reach rural Orange County?
Can we expect more ill suited proposals that don't meet the zoning, Comprehensive
Plan, Future Land Use Map, or UDO? Can we expect proposals that create a citizen outcry so
large it requires three public comment sessions? I'm tired of it—aren't you?
Yes, our county needs taxes, but there are things the residents need, too. Like roofs
over our heads and clean drinking water, schools not surrounded by industrial pollution, a
respect for the quality of life we moved here for (be it 20 years or 20 days ago), and we need
assurance that the regulations and plans put in place—the same ones we looked to when
deciding where to put down roots—will be protected and upheld.
Thank you.
Annette Moore, Human Rights and Relations Director, shared the winners of the Pauli
Murray award, which will be presented on February 28". She said Nikki Giovanni, Jaki Shelton
Green, and Alani Rouse will present, and the theme is "words have meaning."
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 Bedford said she had no comments.
Commissioner Fowler said she attended a Juvenile Crime Prevention Council (JCPC)
meeting, where she heard presentations from several groups working with youth. She said the
groups have received fewer referrals during the pandemic. She said the JCPC released an
RFP released for programs on a variety of skill building, teen court, temporary shelter, and
counseling services. She said she attended the agricultural summit last week, which
highlighted health, in particular mental health and farm related stress. She gave the phone
numbers for assistance programs for those experiencing mental health crises. She said she
also attended the Triangle Area Rural Planning Organization (TARPO) meeting, and the public
can find information on TARPO projects on the TARPO website.
Commissioner Hamilton said she had no comments.
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Commissioner McKee said he attended the ABC board meeting this morning, and there
will be upgrades to several of the stores, especially the store in northern Hillsborough. He said
the store south of Hillsborough has become a destination store, and it is the newest store in the
County.
Commissioner Greene said she also attended the Agricultural Summit last week, and
was impressed by a presentation on food access, and how farmers are getting their product to
market. She said on the last day there was a presentation from a person who teaches area
farmers how to grow Asian products. She said the transit policy steering committee met last
week, and the committee is beginning to set priorities and will seek public comment. She said
the idea of a connection between Durham and Orange Counties is still a priority.
Chair Price said she missed most of the Agricultural Summit, but is glad to hear of its
success. She said the Board received an email regarding a mobility-on-demand program from
the Transit Department, and asked if a follow up presentation could be provided to the Board Of
County Commissioners (BOCC). She said she previously requested a presentation form the
pre-trial working group, which the Board will receive next month.
4. Proclamations/ Resolutions/ Special Presentations
a. Proclamation Recognizing Robert A. Marotto
The Board considered voting to approve a proclamation recognizing and expressing
gratitude to Robert A. (Bob) Marotto for his devotion and service to Orange County, and
authorizing the Chair to sign.
Chair Price introduced the item, Animal Services staff and advisory board members who
wanted to recognize retiring Animal Services Director Bob Marotto.
BACKGROUND: After 16 years of dedicated service to the Orange County community and
animals, Bob Marotto is retiring on March 3, 2021.
Bob Marotto began his career of service with Orange County in 2005 in the newly created job
as the director of Orange County Animal Services (OCAS). However, his career did not begin
as an animal welfare professional and advocate. Prior to that, Bob had completed his education
at the University of California, Santa Cruz, earning a Ph.D in Sociology. He taught at the
University of Dayton for a while but missed working in the world outside of academia, and
subsequently moved to Minnesota, acquired two dogs and began training them. Bob's interest
in animals grew, facilitated by CENSHARE (Center to Study Human-Animal Relationships and
Environments), and he began building his animal-related skills. This included working at Petco
stocking shelves. Mr. Marotto became an accomplished dog trainer teaching "reactive dog"
classes and working with aggressive dogs.
In 1994, Mr. Marotto joined the City of Minneapolis Animal Care and Control Program as an
Animal Control Officer, then moving to Supervisor, leading him to serve as the program
manager. In his 11 years there, he worked successfully with many different people and
organizations as well as oversaw the multiple program developments, new shelter construction
and handling and policy practices for the care, dispositioning and placement of animals. Bob
served as a board member for the National Animal Control Association and worked occasionally
for The Humane Society of the United States conducting animal shelter and program
evaluations. After discussing with his wife the need to relocate to a warmer climate, Bob
transformed from a Gopher to a Tar Heel.
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With OCAS, Bob has been involved in the creation and management of numerous programs
and progressive initiatives. He helped lead the major building project for the new Animal
Services Center, procured multiple grants to offset cost for spay and neuter programs for
Orange County residents' pets, increased donations to aid in the care and comfort of Orange
County animals and worked diligently with Orange County attorneys and District Courts to
assure the protection of animals and that those responsible for the neglect and ill treatment
were held accountable.
Mr. Marotto took a struggling animal shelter and animal control program and brought his
knowledge, tenacity and creativity to provide the residents and animals of Orange County a
state of the art facility and improve both shelter and animal control operations. This resulted in
more animal rehabilitations, adoptions, public awareness and education and less animal
euthanasia. Also during his time here, Bob has spent many hours resolving community
concerns and restoring the community's confidence with OCAS.
Mr. Marotto currently serves as an officer of the North Carolina Animal Federation and is
involved in a community index project for animal welfare supported by PetSmart Charities in
partnership with The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement. Additionally, Bob has
written essays and editorials that have appeared in the Minneapolis Star Tribune, News &
Observer and The Herald Sun.
Irene Phipps, Animal Control Manager, mentioned a few of the things she enjoyed about
working with Bob Marotto, spoke of his support in her career, and how much the staff would
miss him.
Chair Price asked Commissioner McKee to read the resolution:
ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS PROCLAMATION
PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING AND HONORING
ROBERT A. MAROTTO,
RETIRING DIRECTOR, ORANGE COUNTY ANIMAL SERVICES
WHEREAS, in 2005, Robert A. (Bob) Marotto continued his career of public service and animal
welfare by joining the Animal Services Department as the director; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Marotto's first task as director was overseeing the startup of the County's first
free-standing and full service Animal Services Department; and
WHEREAS, during Mr. Marotto's years with the County, he has implemented multiple programs
and policies that set the tone and direction for a progressive and top notch operations which
have benefitted both the residents and animals of Orange County; and
WHEREAS, Bob's understanding of the human/animal bond has impacted many positive
outcomes for animals and their owners; and
WHEREAS, while Mr. Marotto has always practiced education over enforcement, that has not
deterred him from pursuing and advocating for the protection of animals and assuring they have
a voice in seeking justice for the neglect and cruelty inflicted upon them; and
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WHEREAS, as Director, Bob has established cohesive working relationships with other County
departments, local law enforcement, district courts, animal rescue groups and other animal
welfare agencies; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Marotto's commitment to community and outreach has been evident in his
participation in multiple speaking engagements, special events and published essays and
editorials; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Marotto has never put a dog and cat in the same cage and is known for
grabbing a control pole and jumping in to help capture the most aggressive and elusive
Chihuahua; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Marotto is retiring from Orange County on March 3, 2021 after 16 years of
service and devotion for both people and animals, and will be missed;
NOW THEREFORE, we, the Orange County Board of Commissioners, do hereby recognize
and express deep appreciation and respect for the services rendered by Robert Marotto to the
Orange County community, and wish him well in his retirement.
This the 16t" day of February, 2021.
Renee Price, Chair
Orange County Board of
Commissioners
A motion was made by Commissioner McKee, seconded by Commissioner Hamilton to
approve the proclamation recognizing and expressing appreciation to Bob Marotto for his
service to the people of Orange County and wishing him well in his retirement and authorize the
Chair to sign the proclamation.
Roll call ensued
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
Amanda Schwoerke, Animal Services Advisory Board, read a statement of the board's
appreciation to Bob Marotto:
We the undersigned members of the Animal Services Advisory Board, on the occasion
of the retirement of Orange County Animal Services Director Bob Marotto, wish to memorialize
our profound admiration and appreciation for his many years of service.
Following a nationwide search, Bob became Orange County's first Director of Animal
Services in July 2005. He came to Orange County after 11 years at the City of Minneapolis'
Animal Care and Control Program, where he began as an Animal Control Officer and became
Program Director. Orange County Animal Services was born with Bob's arrival in 2005. At that
time, Animal Control resided within the Health Department, while the old shelter was
administered by the non-profit Animal Protection Society of Orange County. Under Bob's
direction, animal control and animal care were brought together, both operationally and,
eventually, under one roof with the opening of the beautiful new Orange County Animal
Services building in 2009. When Bob arrived in 2005, the intake level of animals was
approximately 5,000 per year and the live release rate was approximately 50-60%; today,
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Orange County Animal Services can boast of intake levels under 3,000 animals per year and
live release rates near to or exceeding 90%. A professional veterinary practice has been
established within the new shelter, and a vigorous spay and neuter program has been instituted
in the county following vast improvements in community outreach on the importance of avoiding
pet overpopulation. Today, Animal Services in our county stands as a model program, leading
initiatives and setting standards to be followed across the state.
These changes, of which we are so proud, would not have happened without the
guidance and leadership of Bob. Bob has been the consummate professional, always ready to
work long hours, overseeing any number of Board meetings, and keeping County
Commissioners and citizens engaged in developments at Animal Services. Often the best of
Bob was revealed at the most difficult of times; during a Dangerous Dog Appeal hearing that
could stretch for hours and exhaust the emotions of both the appellants and panelists, Bob
would demonstrate his expertise with kindness, fairness and equity in mind.
We have all enjoyed working with Bob over these many years. He will be sorely missed.
Ashley Miller, Animal Control Officer, thanked Bob Marotto for the support he's given
her, and said she admires his integrity, experience, and perspective on cases. She said she
will miss having his support professionally and personally.
Marcus Gamez, Animal Control Officer, thanked Bob Marotto for the opportunities he
hass given to him, and for his willingness to support and guide employees. He said he is happy
for Bob Marotto's retirement, but will miss him.
Commissioner Greene recounted when she first met Bob Marotto at the installation of
an art piece by the Animal Services building. She said Bob Marotto was welcoming to her, as a
new commissioner. She noted his participation in meetings and the new perspectives he
brought to meetings such as the Justice Advisory Commission.
Commissioner Fowler thanked Bob Marotto for his service, and wished him well.
Commissioner McKee wished Bob Marotto well for both him and Commissioner McKee's
pet dog.
Chair Price expressed appreciation for Bob Marotto's service in animal cruelty cases,
and providing advice and support.
Irene Phipps read a message from Officer Michael Hess: "Let the force be with you."
Bob Marotto said he was touched by the kind words, and mentioned times that he
worked with various Commissioners. He spoke of visiting the Caldwell Hunt Club with
Commissioner McKee. He spoke of elevating the status of cats in the shelter and community.
He referenced a bird issue that had a sad ending. He said Orange County Animal Services is a
place others try to emulate. He expressed appreciation to the Animal Services Advisory Board,
and said outstanding care is important. He said the Commissioners affirm the value of what
Animal Services does and supports them doing good work with the community. He said doing
this work was an extraordinary opportunity, and thanked the commissioners. He said he hopes
the vision they created is preserved and furthered by the next group of leaders at Animal
Services.
b. OWASA Annual Update Presentation
The Board received a presentation and information from the Orange Water and Sewer
Authority (OWASA) on recent activities.
Chair Price introduced the item and Ray DuBose, OWASA Board Chair.
BACKGROUND:
At the beginning of each calendar year, OWASA representatives appear before the Board of
Commissioners to make a presentation on recent OWASA activities. This year an update on
OWASA's Long-Range Water Supply Plan will also be provided.
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OWASA Board Chair Ray DuBose and Board Secretary Jody Eimers, Orange County
appointees to the OWASA Board, will present the annual update. OWASA Planning and
Development Manager Ruth Rouse will provide an update to OWASA's Long Range Water
Supply Plan (LRWSP).
Ray DuBose said Jody Eimers could not attend this evening. He thanked the BOCC for
appointing himself and Jody Eimers to the Board, and said Jody Eimers will be eligible for
reappointment this spring. He said the OWASA board received a diversity and inclusion update
earlier this year, and will be focusing on these areas in the coming months. He said there may
an apprenticeship program, trainings are being done, and OWASA is participating in the
County's equity efforts. He said said there is still a temporary moratorium on collections until
April, and customers will not incur penalties and interests until then. He said once collections
resume, OWASA will work with customers on payment plans. He said an affordability program
helped OWASA to challenges posed by the pandemic. He said the Orange County Housing
Department has helped implement the program. He said OWASA still applies for state and
federal funding.
Todd Taylor, Executive Director, reviewed a testing program of wastewater samples to
track COVID-19. He said OWASA is working with NCDHHS to participate in a nationwide
surveillance monitoring program to gather data pertinent to COVID-19. He said this data will
help public health officials better understand infection rates in the community.
Todd Taylor said OWASA is developing energy efficient projects. He said OWASA is
installing rooftop solar panels via a public private partnership. He thanked the Commissioners
for a Climate Action grant for a solar panel project at Cane Creek Reservoir, which was tabled
due to the pandemic. He said this was done in an effort to avoid a rate increase, due to the
pandemic.
Ruth Rouse made the following PowerPoint presentation:
SupplyrLong-Range Water
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•Provide information on work
completed to-date on
OWASA's Long-Range Water
Supply Plan
•Receive questions and
feedback on that work
•Receive feedback on
proposed path forward
Uni•«+ISY L.w
Key Messages
•We have a low risk of
running out of water.
•Our largest vulnerability is in
extended drought.
-Jordan Lake alternatives
appear to be most cost-
effective option for
increasing resiliency.
Innke on Gne Creek Reurv•ir
Ensuring Long-Range
Water Supply Resiliency
� 2 ._u.
10 r ''' �3
s s
7 6
Ruth Rouse discussed the community engagement OWASA has undertaken to get
feedback on the Long Range Water Plan.
10
OWASXs Water
Supplies W;
•Local Water Supplies "�°� • ® �,a,„
•Cane Creek Reservoir
{
•University Lake
•Quarry Reservoir
•Jordan Lake
® Z �
Jordan Lake
•Federal,multi-purpose reservoir
• Flood control
•Watersupply
Downstream water quality
• Recreation
•OWASA has had an allncatinn since 1999.
•Practice has been to only use Jordan Lake
during water shortage
•We have no guaranteed access to Jordan
Lake.
Jordan Law.
9.0 24,000
Water Sales and Accounts
—
0. 37,000
Q 8.0
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G 7.5 I- 20,000
m Seasmel
6 f
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0 leseao "
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6.0 Ircreasfng Ifi,000
' BWrk RaTes �
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5.5 14,000
Redd—d water —On0-
n' 17,000
4.5
4.0 . . . . .,g. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .lop 10,000
b-P� yeti 40 w"' "I e e e I-:"'A 411,O•t'L$1 do"b$1
—Actual Water sales —Customer Accounts
11
SupplyOur Water
Under Most Conditions
16
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a
E 12 Yield
d 1D
a y Actual '+�• gaseline,lst,
F ;w• Demands
and 99th
z Percentile
Projections
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19N 1990 2000 2010 202C 203C 2040 2030 2060 2070
Fiscal Year
Our Water Supply $ g
Risk is Low
Rae�W
.__ �� �_ .__ .._ .. � Dom' �•Cuv Gpei H�
• our predecessors set us up well
eowr
•Supply _
•[onservarion u
• Cane Creek Reservoir has small
watershed relative to Its storage
• Long refill times following drought
• Our main vulnerability Is extended
draught a-
• Plan to proactively use Jordan Lake
allocatlon �➢
• Reducevuln—bility ». .
• Reduce droughtsurchargesSustaina -
..octal
•
ty Partnership
Principles
i
Financial Environmental
12
•
Identifying Alternatives to Evaluate
> rrEllatron
� Narrowing the
106
All Ideas Field of
6 0O •
• Meetings • Potential water supply or Apples to apples
• Plans savings comparison across 3
OWASA Board • Incremental costs pillars of
and others Implementation sustainability
Preliminary Alternatives Analysis
Alternativm
supply
-
AlternatIves
Demand
• Do not meet long-term 9A Zane°
demands 0 1 A ,=per
• Cost-effective strategies I
A 6Ae°
will be considered in
Water Conservation Plan R d 6A
S.S I hliwd MSart•°NC la�ee°5
as Appendix to LRWSP sA wrote C
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�R[Wel Wa[Q Salsa �0�5[oma lw'[oun[s
13
SupplyOptions
•Deep Quarry a
• Ooes not diversitywatersupply
• High capital cost
•Potable Reuse Ia• Options not legs or have uncertain permitting process
•High capital cost
•Jordan Lake
• Meets long-term needs and diversifies our water supply
• Lower capital costs
• Several potential ways to use Jordan Lake
•Largely rely on our 3local supplies
Where are we headed?
• Report to Board of Directors on community engagement-March
• Develop guiding principles to evaluate Jordar Lake alternatives—May/June
• Continue to evaluate Jordan Lake-FY22
• Mutual aid agreements
• Full partner In new Intake and plant on western side of Jordan Lake
• New agreement with Western Intake Partners to guarantee access to our Jordan Lake
allocation
5elect draft preferred alternative-FY22
• Engage the community
• Develop final Long-Range Water Supply Plan with preferred
alternative
Questions an• Discussion
❑o the Commissioners or community mern6ers
have any questions on our long-range water
supply planning process?
What feedback would you like shared with the
DWASA Board of Directors regarding future
evaluation of Jordan Lake water supply
alternatives?
Dther?
Ruth Rouse/rrouse@owasa.org
Commissioner Bedford asked if water is pumped from Cane Creek Reservoir to fill the
quarry.
Ruth Rouse said it is not done routinely, but would be if there was a water shortage.
Commissioner Bedford referred to PFAs and chemicals in water. She said OWASA
water has a reputation of being very clean, and asked if Jordan Lake water is the same quality.
Ruth Rouse said water can be cleaned to meet requirements, and Jordan Lake does
provide drinking water for parts of Wake County.
Commissioner Bedford asked if the process to remove the chemicals could be
explained.
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Ruth Rouse said she is not sure what Wake County does, but OWASA uses carbon.
Todd Taylor said PFAS chemicals are monitored for, and are present, in Cane Creek.
He said OWASA's treatment techniques are effective at controlling the levels, primarily due to
the carbon that is used to treat the water. He said any water from Jordan Lake would be
treated to meet drinking water standards, prior to OWASA being willing to receive it.
Commissioner Greene said she had a memory of a quarry project not coming online for
30 years. She asked if there was another part of the quarry that has not yet come online.
Ruth Rouse said there is an expanded quarry project adjacent to the current quarry, of
which Commissioner Greene might be thinking. She said this will increase the supply when it
comes online.
Commissioner Greene discussed the quality of Cane Creek Reservoir and said Jordan
Lake was not created to be a drinking water source. She said, historically, community leaders
felt it should not be used as a water source unless absolutely necessary.
Commissioner Fowler asked if there is a reason why the quarry water is too clean to
treat.
Todd Taylor said the treatment process is predicated on having cloudiness to the water,
so the particles can settle. He said when water is pulled from quarry it needs to be mixed with
water from other reservoirs.
Commissioner Fowler said the most cost effective has been chosen, but asked if more
details could be provided.
Ruth Rouse said OWASA would evaluate other options besides Jordan Lake, such as
partnering with neighboring counties for an intake plant, and using mutual aid agreements in
advance of drought. She said a third option is to look at a new agreement with neighboring
counties, where Orange County would make an annual payment to have access to a plant.
Commissioner Fowler asked if OWASA had decided on an alternative.
Ruth Rouse said no, and no option is off the table.
Commissioner Greene asked if the decision maker could be identified.
Ruth Rouse said staff makes recommendations, which are presented to the
communities for feedback, and then the OWASA board will decide how to move forward.
Commissioner Bedford asked if there are any agreements with Hillsborough and
Alamance County.
Ruth Rouse said there are mutual aid agreements with Hillsborough and Chatham
County. She said Hillsborough does not have much excess capacity right now. She said
Durham currently provides the best access to more water.
Chair Price thanked the OWASA representatives, and encouraged other Commissioners
to tour the OWASA properties.
5. Public Hearings
None
A motion was made by Commissioner Hamilton, seconded by Commissioner Fowler to
recess the meeting 4 minutes.
Roll call ensued
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
RECONVENE THE MEETING
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A motion was made by Commissioner Fowler, seconded by Commissioner Bedford to
reconvene 8:24 p.m.
Roll call ensued.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
6. Regular Agenda
a. Approval of the Disengagement Plan to Disengage from Cardinal Innovations
Health Care and Realign with Alliance Health
The Board considered voting to approve the Local Management Entity/Managed Care
Organization (LME/MCO) Disengagement Plan continuing the process of disengaging from
Cardinal Innovations Health Care and realigning with Alliance Health to administer mental and
behavioral health services for Orange County residents.
BACKGROUND:
North Carolina General Statutes and the North Carolina Administrative Code authorize and
prescribe the process through which a County may seek permission to disengage from one
LME-MCO and realign with another. The final decision making authority rests with the
Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services.
The Board of Commissioners initiated the disengagement process by approving the County's
Intent to Disengage on November 5, 2020. This formal notice was transmitted to the Secretary
of Health and Human Services, the Co-Chairs of the Joint Legislative Oversight Committee on
Health and Human Services, and the affected counties on November 16, 2020.
In addition to the Intent to Disengage, the Board of Commissioners is required to approve a
Disengagement Plan. This abstract would approve the Disengagement Plan (Attachment 1) as
required by law and initiate a sixty (60) calendar day public comment period. During the
comment period, the County is required to solicit comments from consumers, advocates, self-
advocates, and State and Local Consumer and Family Advisory Committees. Following the
sixty (60) day comment period, the comments must be posted on the County's website for a
minimum of thirty (30) calendar days.
Disengagement Plan Highlights
The Disengagement Plan details the disengagement process and efforts to involve
stakeholders in this process. The important elements of the Plan include:
• Creating a Realignment Committee consisting of key county officials and agencies,
Alliance Health and Cardinal Innovations Health Care representatives, and other
appropriate stakeholders.
• Creating a Continuity of Services Plan to ensure continuity of services during the
transition. Alliance intends to honor current service authorizations, annual plans and
other authorizations essential to ensure a smooth transition and intends to honor
provider rates following a financial due diligence period that is currently underway.
• Engaging the public and stakeholders impacted by the transition. These engagement
efforts will include notification to affected providers and Medicaid recipients and those
16
Orange County residents receiving state-funded services through Cardinal Innovations
Health Care, and a concentrated effort to solicit comments, feedback and suggestions
from consumers, advocates, providers, State and Local Consumer and Family Advisory
Committees (CFACs), and other interested parties. The engagement efforts will use a
variety of communication methods including a dedicated website, mailings, stakeholder
meetings, press releases, and social media messaging as appropriate.
Additional Agreements
In addition to the process and commitments contained in the Disengagement Plan, Alliance
Health has also agreed to provide the following to Orange County:
• One seat on the Alliance Health Board of Directors,
• Participation on the Alliance County Commissioners Advisory Committee,
• Access to the Alliance Health Child Crisis Facility,
• Completion of a services needs and gaps analysis during implementation prior to final
realignment,
• Participation on the Alliance Health Consumer Family and Advisory Committee (CFAC),
• Participation on Alliance Provider Advisory Committee (APAC),
• Establishment of Community Directors Meeting in Orange County,
• Provider invitations to All-Provider Meetings and Learning Collaboratives,
• A dedicated Hospital and Court liaison, and
• Collaboration with the County to locate space for group or individual meetings.
Timeline
Upon approval of the Disengagement Plan by the Board of Commissioners, the process will
proceed on the following timeline:
• February 17, 2021 — Publish this Disengagement Plan for public comment (60 days)
• April 18, 2021 — Post public comments received (30 days)
• May 19, 2021 — Submit the formal Request to Disengage to the Secretary with the
required documentation. A decision by the Secretary is required within 90 days.
• August 17, 2021 —Anticipated approval by the Secretary
• Following Secretary Approval - Implementation phase
• January 1, 2022 — Effective date of transition
Travis Myren made the following PowerPoint presentation:
�1
ORANGE COUNTY
NORTH CAROLINA
LME-MCO
Disengagement Plan
February 16,2020
Virtual Meeting
17
LME-MCOs in North Carolina
Administer Mental and Behavioral Health Services
Each LM E-M CO has Service Area or Catchment
�0
0 '
ORANGE COUNTY
] Ne]]n]l l GAOLINA
Context and Timing
Board of Commissioners Action
merit Ie Disengage-November 5,2020
Fonnal Wrlaen Notice of Irier0 io Disengage-November 10,2020
• Medicaid Translormation—New Timel1no
- standard Plans Effective July 1,2021
• In[Idrs N.lbdrrid Re[ipems MIh kNm WWI—BHaeoral H®br Gaposrs
vn�nlesllNe ales unteo Heemmre,ek.
• ufa�co5 cominoem pmxdesa.w5mgve c�rade[ws�
- Tailored Plans E}fecgve July 1,2022
Wwbpnetal0iusxbiloes or T�wnao&unhsnl�'"'use Deuoer,rcelxn�l am
Dceh Auercea[o LrnEAlcOe in rrerJ�ne mat
£oerY�r Canlra[I5-Caenlles a[Ned lnw LIAEJACDS ror TaibreO%en Adnlnlslrellm
ORANGE COUNTY
Disengagement Plan Contents
Justification and Rationale
• Realignment Planning
- Creation of RealWrmenI Cammbtee
• G—dORci—WAee—UFpm WPmje[iNengeirem
- Creallonofa Contimity of Services Plan
• Hmar(Lrem Bernie ANM1airaliva
Imces w wro-vrouec[nnlrene ere donee,arer®oetatlmne uagerce
- Pawic Engagement Pisces
• Canawre�Admnra Rai&re
ORANGE COUNTY
Disengagement Plan Contents
• Add ltlonalCommitments
- One seal on the Allance Healb,Board of Dlwtom,
- PaNclpatlan on the Allance County Commissioners Advisory Commbtee,
- Access 10 the Ali—Health Chip Crisis Facility,
- Completion of a s IM needs and gaps arWysls duMg Implemelttatlon prior to
finer realignment.
Padimpallon on the Allance Health Consumer Family and Advlsmy Committee,
- Pedicipalian on Alliance Provider Advisory Committee,
Esiabllshmem of Commmity Dlwwm Meetly In Orange CowLy,
Provider invllabons to Al•Provlder Metrims and Learning Colahoratives,
- A dedicated Hospital and Court liaison,and
Collao—lan win the Coumy m locale apace for group or Indlvldual meetlngs.
ORANGECOUNTY
18
Tentative Schedule
ggenpge
- - - - •BOCCAp.M
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•Dyxatimel Impact of fieeliArwnent
an..IP�mn:IUPn waParPr�.ma.,wa P o ldi:
- -- -- •Prrarmraar,ma Pfarrlmpamsrmmr,{Inr2�z�
Discussion and auesiions
...:ram
a O r�`orz nGcEu O�uMY
Trey Sutten, CEO of Cardinal Innovations, spoke about the services Cardinal provides,
and the motivation behind them. He said each county is assigned to an LME-MCO, and said it
is Cardinal's desire to address gaps within the services being provided. He said Cardinal is not
perfect, but it is a different organization than it used to be. He said statutes complicate the
ability to provide services, but Cardinal is improving service delivery in authorizations. He said
Cardinal is listening to residents and members, and a possible disengagement is concerning.
He said it is most concerning for those in need of Cardinal's services, and he asked the Board
to allow Cardinal to continue to serve Orange County.
Commissioner Bedford said one provider on the planning committee for disengagement
might not be enough, and she is glad that the Manager can add as needed. She said she
would like to know what the financial due diligence of the plan is.
19
Travis Myren said this work is currently underway, and Alliance is conducting
comparisons of rates that are publically available. He said after tonight's vote, Alliance can
work with Cardinal on the rates that are not publically available.
Commissioner Hamilton asked if there is a plan in place to receive input from the public.
She said the people Cardinal serves are vulnerable, and emails may not be enough. She said
a plan with community partners is important.
Travis Myren said the current members are all known, and there will be direct mailings
to existing members and provider networks. He said social media will also be used.
Commissioner Hamilton asked if there will be multiple ways for people to provide input
and feedback.
Travis Myren said there will be email available, and traditional mail can be sent to the
Manager's Office. He said staff may hold virtual events, as well.
Commissioner Hamilton encouraged staff to check with service providers on best
practices.
Commissioner Fowler asked if Alliance will pick up all of the Cardinal providers.
Travis Myren said yes, all providers will be picked up at, or above, their current rate,
pending the due diligence period.
Commissioner Fowler asked if Alliance will continue to use the same service plan held
by a member until the member is due for a new yearly plan.
Travis Myren said he thinks so, but would follow up on this.
Chair Price asked if it known how long the rates would stay the same.
Travis Myren said this has not yet been determined.
Chair Price said she would like that information, and would want the rates to stay stable.
Chair Price asked if the liaison position to the hospitals would be County employees.
Travis Myren said no, they would be MCO/Alliance funded positions.
Chair Price asked what happens during the 30-day comment period.
Travis Myren said it is a time for the comments to be digested, and allows time for staff
to make any necessary changes.
Chair Price asked if any further comments could be received after the 60 days.
Travis Myren said staff is flexible to accept comments at any time, but would encourage
them during the 60 days.
Chair Price asked if the seat on the Alliance board would be for a Commissioner.
Travis Myren said yes.
Chair Price highlighted a letter she received from the Freedom House Recovery Center
expressing support for Cardinal. She said she will share this letter with the Board. She said
she also received comments Karen Dunn, who felt the disengagement plan was vague, and
wanted specifics on what members would gain or lose under the change, in order to provide
meaningful comments and input.
Commissioner Bedford asked if Travis Myren had the letter from the National Alliance
on Mental Illness (NAMI), supporting disengagement.
Travis Myren said yes, and he will disseminate all of this information to the BOCC.
A motion was made by Commissioner Bedford, seconded by Commissioner McKee to
approve the Disengagement Plan (Attachment 1), and authorize the County Manager to take all
necessary steps to implement the Plan.
Roll call ensued
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
20
b. Re-naming the New Orange County Environmental Agricultural Center (EAC) to
the Orange County Bonnie B. Davis Environmental and Agricultural Center
The Board discussed re-naming the new Orange County Environmental Agricultural
Center (EAC) to the Orange County Bonnie B. Davis Environmental and Agricultural Center.
Bonnie Hammersley reviewed the following background:
BACKGROUND:
Bonnie B. Davis joined the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service in the 1950's. Bonnie
retired from Orange County Cooperative Extension Department in 1990 after over 40 years as
the Family & Consumer Sciences Agent. She died on July 27, 2018.
• Bonnie B. Davis was appointed the first Orange County "colored" Home Demonstration
Agent (now known as Family and Consumer Sciences Agent), a job she retained for 40
years.
• Bonnie B. Davis leadership strengths served as a foundation to facilitate racial
integration in the Orange County Extension office. Her positive attitude spread among
4-H youth, home demonstration club members (better known now as Extension &
Community Association), and Extension employees.
• Bonnie B. Davis drove to rural parts of the County to help youth practice demonstrations
for 4-H short courses. Ms. Davis believed that everyone, regardless of where they
started in life, could excel given the right opportunity, the necessary training and
resources.
• Bonnie B. Davis displayed her steadfastness when she returned from maternity leave in
1956. The new courthouse had opened with a kitchen for the use of white agents and
their clubs, but no facilities for the black agents and their clubs. Mrs. Davis resisted this
injustice and worked with the County Commissioners and others resulting in a new
addition at the corner of Court and King Streets for the use of agricultural extension.
• Bonnie B. Davis was a founding member of Friends of Department of Social Services
and the Women of Distinction Extension Club. She was an active member of the Mars
Hill Extension Club and other Extension Clubs and these clubs have served as the
community connection for the NC Cooperative Extension FCS program for years.
• Bonnie B. Davis was the Chairperson for the Board of Social Services, was a founding
member of Orange Congregations in Mission, a member of the Regional Library Board
of Trustee, and was an active board member of the Orange County Literacy Council.
• Bonnie B. Davis received many state and local awards and was a recipient of the
Orange County Pauli Murray award in 2000.
• Bonnie B. Davis was a lifelong active member of Delta Sigma Theta and the Links Inc.
She was a devoted member of Mount Bright Baptist Church for over 70 years, serving
as a Deaconess, Co-Chair of the Kitchen Committee and the Christian Education Board.
In memoriam and appreciation of Bonnie B. Davis, the proposal to rename the new Orange
County Environmental Agricultural Center (EAC) to the Orange County Bonnie B. Davis
21
Environmental and Agricultural Center is presented to the Board of Orange County
Commissioners for consideration.
Ivelisse Colon, Family and Consumer Science Agent for NC Cooperative Extension in
Orange County, spoke in support of this renaming. She said Ms. Davis has a strong
commitment to serving the County, and improved the lives of many. She said Ms. Davis
reminds the County to serve with equity and excellence. She said Orange County is forward
thinking, and this renaming is one example of this. She said if this renaming occurs, it will be
the first Ag Center to be named after an African American woman. She said Orange County
would be an example to others in the state.
Dr. Fletcher Barber, Jr. thanked the Manager for her comments about Bonnie B. Davis.
He said he is the retired extension director, and worked with Ms. Davis. He said she was a
servant leader, and a legend within cooperative extension. He said one had to be on point
when working with a legend. He said she received all of the state and national awards one
could receive as an extension employee, and was especially proud of receiving the Pauli
Murray award. He said she stood for what was right, and did not wear a watch, because she
did not want to be hindered by time when working with families. He said it is fitting to honor to
rename the center after her.
Commissioner McKee praised Ms. Davis and whole-heartedly endorsed renaming the
center after her. He said she was very smart, dignified, and a force to be reckoned with when
she wanted something done.
Commissioner Fowler said after reading all of the letters in support of her, it was clear
Ms. Davis was a remarkable woman.
Commissioner Hamilton said she is proud to be an African American woman standing
on the shoulders of someone like Ms. Davis. She said she supported the renaming.
Commissioner Bedford said reading the letters of support transported her to a time in
Orange County history that she did not know. She said Ms. Davis created the leaders of today,
and mentioned it would be good for the schools to know about her work.
Chair Price said lifting up someone like Ms. Davis is heart-warming, and she whole-
heartedly supports the action.
A motion was made by Commissioner McKee, seconded by Commissioner Hamilton to
bring forward a resolution to rename the building after Ms. Davis.
Roll call ensued.
VOTE: Unanimous.
Chair Price said it would be good to bring the family to the naming of the building when it
opens.
7. Reports
a. Buckhorn Area Plan (Study)
The Board received a presentation on the Buckhorn Area Plan (Study).
BACKGROUND:
In recent years, the City of Mebane has experienced increased interest in the development of
properties in Orange County that were not addressed by its existing 2017 Comprehensive Land
Development Plan (LDP), Mebane By Design. Per North Carolina General Statutes, the City of
22
Mebane has an obligation to update its long-range plan so that its actions on development
proposals, rezoning and annexations are consistent with its adopted plans. The City of Mebane
and Orange County have coordinated to provide utilities in the greater Buckhorn area (Efland
and westward to Mebane city limits) and have a Utility Service Agreement (2012 was the most
recent update) that identifies a service area that, to a significant degree, coincides with the
scope of the Buckhorn Area Plan. This Agreement is in need of an update due to new
developments and growth pressures in and around the existing Mebane LDP, Efland Mebane
Small Area Plan, and City of Mebane/Orange County Utility Service Agreement. The Buckhorn
Area Plan may help inform future agreements or amendments.
As suggested by the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) in late 2018, staff was to
research the development potential of existing designated economic development zones, as
well as other viable sites. A prior engineering analysis of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities,
and threats (SWOT analysis) by Timmons Group of the economic development districts
bolstered the need for additional study. Orange County's Planning and Economic Development
departments worked together with their Mebane counterparts on this plan. As such, both
jurisdictions funded the planning study to help inform future land use and potential utility service
that could be mutually beneficial.
Orange County utilized funds available in the FY 2019-2020 budget to reimburse the City of
Mebane for half of the consulting expenses of the Buckhorn Area Plan. The original goals have
been to work together with a consultant to further analyze areas within Orange County—
adjacent to and near Mebane — and to develop recommendations for a growth strategy. In
January 2020, Piedmont Triad Regional Council (PTRC) was selected as the consultant, and
beginning on February 6, 2020, Orange County, Mebane, and PTRC have met monthly to
discuss the geographic area of the study, the parcel development suitability criteria and
mechanisms for feedback on the analysis.
During the course of the study, there have been developments in Orange County brought to
Mebane with a focus to rezone and to annex into Mebane. Any development proposals that are
in Orange County and that fall within the study area have been noted as such in Orange County
Planning's feedback to Mebane during the informal courtesy review process. While Mebane has
the ability to annex properties that are willing to be annexed pursuant to state law without
County `approval', Orange County Planning Staff's review of proposals has included language
that informally recommends Mebane delay any further development of parcels that fall within
the Buckhorn Area (but outside the existing utility service agreement) until the Plan is finalized
and has been shared with the public and elected officials.
The BOCC received an Information Item on the Buckhorn Area Plan in its December 15, 2020
agenda packet.
THE BUCKHORN AREA PLAN (STUDY):
Staff will provide an overview of the Buckhorn Area Plan, which functions as a technical study,
at the BOCC meeting. Some key aspects are provided as attachments herein. A copy of the
full document can be downloaded via the following link:
https://www.i)trc.org/Home/ShowDocument?id=10489
The study uses GIS mapping to determine parcels most suitable for development within the
focus area. The process allows for a technical review of multiple development factors including:
developable acres, preservation areas, mean slope, watershed, sewer infrastructure, water
23
infrastructure, interstate access, interstate visibility, roadway access, and access to existing rail.
In addition to the parcel-level scoring based on objective suitability criteria, there are a few
areas of clustered parcels that have been recommended for long-term growth based on a
combination of final score and high economic development use potential.
The focus area (Attachment 1) for this study was defined after significant consideration of
existing land uses, environmental impacts, and economic development potential. This does not
mean that all areas in the study are proposed for potential change but just an area/base
element of research. The boundaries for the focus area are the rail line to the North; Ben
Wilson and Mattress Factory Roads to the west, Mt. Willing Road and parcels along the 1-85
connector to the East; Bushy Cook Road and Seven Mile Creek to the South. The City of
Mebane and Orange County Planning, Administrative, Public Works, and Economic
Development staffs worked with the Piedmont Triad Regional Council to ensure parcels with the
highest potential were included in the analysis. It is worth noting, however, that parcels with
significant public utility (schools, churches, cemeteries) were marked as not available for
development, regardless of how well they scored on the parcel suitability criteria.
Attachment 2 indicates the suitability criteria and values used in the scoring analysis contained
in the study. Through the scoring analysis, five potential areas for growth based on size,
access, and needs are identified in Attachment 3. The identification of these five potential
growth areas is the key outcome of the Buckhorn Area Plan (Study). If and how all five
potential growth areas or a sub-set are further pursued through any changes to County land
use plans or agreements is vet to be determined.
Growth Studies or Small Area Plans are researched based documents, which can recommend
or inform future land use plan or ordinance amendments. The adoption of such a study would
provide a more formal planning and agreement process (could include multiple implementation
options), which would need to be decided upon in accordance with the Unified Development
Ordinance.
MEBANE PLANNING BOARD MEETING/FIRST PUBLIC MEETING:
The Mebane Planning Board reviewed the Buckhorn Area Plan and accepted public comment
on November 9, 2020. This meeting was available to join online via Zoom, in-person (limited to
7 members of the public due to coronavirus protocols), and available to stream and re-watch on
YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=ci2UakUtAD8). A notification of
the Planning Board and first virtual public meeting was mailed to all property owners within the
Buckhorn Focus Area. A short presentation was given by the Piedmont Triad Regional Council
outlining the planning process, parcel analysis, and recommendations. The Mebane Planning
Board passed a motion to adopt the Buckhorn Area Plan and to amend the Mebane
Comprehensive Land Development Plan. The same night, the Planning Board recommended
approval of the Buckhorn Area Plan to the Mebane City Council.
MEBANE/ORANGE COUNTY OPEN HOUSE MEETING:
On Tuesday, November 10, 2020, the City of Mebane and Orange County held a public
meeting on the Buckhorn Area Plan. The meeting was held on Zoom and welcomed guest
questions, comments, and concerns after a short presentation on the overview of the plan.
These questions and comments were taken into consideration, and changes were made to
reflect the needs and concerns of property owners. Primary concerns were about development
standards such as traffic, buffering, noise, and lighting. The meeting was two hours long, and
25 people attended.
24
MEBANE CITY COUNCIL MEETING:
The draft Buckhorn Area Plan was presented at the December 7, 2020 Mebane City Council
meeting, and a public hearing was held and continued to January 4, 2021. At the January 4,
2021 Mebane City Council meeting, the Council continued the public hearing before closing it
that evening. A decision was deferred until the January 7, 2021 City Council meeting. During
the meeting on January 7, 2021, the City Council agreed to take NO action on the Buckhorn
Area Plan until Orange County reviews the Plan and offers comments.
In the interim and in response to recent developer initiated requests for annexation and Mebane
utility connections, the City of Mebane has amended its Comprehensive Land Development
Plan (LDP), Mebane By Design, to include three properties south of West Ten Road and Future
Growth Area "A". Maps are provided as Attachment 4 illustrating the LDP before the recent
amendment and after. Growth Area "A" is labeled in Attachment 3. While the Mebane City
Council believes that the Buckhorn Area Plan offers good guidance in determining the
economic development potential of additional properties in the utility service area, the Council is
not in favor of increasing the geographic extent of its LDP to include any portions of Areas B, C,
D, or E without explicit Orange County support.
NEXT ORANGE COUNTY STEP: The Orange County BOCC is scheduled to meet in a joint
meeting with the Mebane City Council on March 9, 2021 at 7:00 pm via Zoom.
Craig Benedict, Planning Director, introduced the item, and presented the first few slides
of the following PowerPoint presentation.
ORANGE COUNTY
NORTH CAROLINA
Buckhorn Area Plan (Study)
Craig Benedict, Director
Tom Altied, Planner Ill
Tom Ten Eyck,Planner II
reomary 15,2021
Purpose
To receive a presentation on the Buckhorn
Area Plan(Study)
Craig aenedIct-Presenter O RANGE RYLY
25
Background
• Mebane has had increased interest from
developers in developing properties in
Orange County that are not captured in its
Comprehensive Land Development Plan
(CLDP), Mebane By Design
• Coordinated policies between Mebane and
Orange County(2012 Utility Services
Agreement)also in need of update with
Mebane's growth in Orange County
Cralg Benedlct-Presenler O RANNGI SOIJ
Background (continued)
• Orange County Planning and Economic
Development Staff were tasked by the
BOCC in 2018 to research the
development of potential`Economic
Development'zones
• Both Mebane and Orange County
underwent a joint venture to study land
use and potential utility service that would
be mutually beneficial for these purposes
Cralg Bened let-Presenter omM COINMY
Tom Altieri, Comprehensive Planning Supervisor, presented the following PowerPoint
slides:
Presentation Table of Contents
1. Purpose/ _
Background
2. Buckhorn Area ® -
Han(study)
3. Attachment
Information
4. Mebane's Actions
and CLDP
5. Ne)d Orange J,P'"`�="
County Step Link to the Plan on Piedmont Triad Websitet
6. Recommendation https.itwww.ptroorgMomelShow Dom ment?id
=1Q489
Tom Amen•Presenter ORAz GE COUNTY
26
Attachment 9 — Focus Area
;r
ORANGE COUNTY
fuortn I ra�L7Nw
Buckhorn Area Plan (study)
• GIS parcels were analyzed for most
suitable development in focus area
-The focus area was determined after
considering existing uses, environmental
impact and economic development viability
• Suitability criteria were determined based
on analysis of objective criteria
• Five potential"growth areas"were
identified as a key outcome of the study
ORANGE COUNTY
NORT3[GR�1L[N.�
�•�� ^�•• �° Attachment 2
Suitability
•�YCEIrt wolf 3
RnnerveticnArce• YOI�MIMY�iPNlICt ; Criteria and
Oen„rvwbn•M,w,n�xM,nrpMAn, .2
�•-�•El.w.��ow.o.•. Values
MNnBbP! •,� ,
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7
�Mm p
YYLEee MeeWcM Av�II�W o 2
1•winl�l�o awn 7
ulwwlrwa.rvr p
�w.w ua.s NNNn 1/mlb•lNlrolMnpw 2
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Rmdwy�me•e 1RpubW MICE[nMOwgw y
■uueaelc E�B,Ibq RN ra 7 QRANGE COUNTY
i 171I CA LINA
27
Attachment 3 -- Potential Growth Areas
1
ORANGE COUNTY
Noon[uROLIN.
Mebane's Actions to Date
• Nov 9,2020: Mebane Planning Board reviewed the
BAP and accepted public comments
• Nov 10,2020: Mebane/Orange County Open House
Meeting to address public questionslconcems
• Dec 7,2020: Mebane City Council receives BAP
and opens a public hearing on the topic
• Jan 4.2021: City Council continues public hearing
and closes it;postpones decision until Jan 7
• Jan 7.2021: City Council decides on NO ACTION
until Orange County reviews
ORANGE COUNTY
wO [CR LINE
Mebane's Comprehensive Land
Development Plan Amendments
• While no action was taken on the BAP by Mebane's
City Council, an update to their CLDP was made to
allow Mebane to be in compliance with state
statutes
-Area along West Ten Road and Growth Area"A"
• Mebane's City Council feels that the BAP does offer
additional guidance for potential economic
development properties, but will wait until after
comments are received from Orange County before
considering any formal action
ORANGE COUNTY
No,rn c uno—
28
Attachment 4 CRY OF MEBAlE
—Mebane �. p
C L D P {Before}
E" Y A
ORANGE COUNTY
NOICT3[C.4ROLINA
Attachment 4 `rc`°`""""`
— Mebane
CLDP (After)
't Oie»b A:V
S r�A�� �r..rylRF-iti-
ORANGE COUNTY
MOM I CAROLINA
Tom Altieri said Mebane requested changes, which were primarily made along West
Ten Road, extending the extent of the land development plan to the south of West Ten Road.
Mebane Comprehensive Land Development Plan Extent Modifications
and Buckh—Area Plan Future Growth Areas
L
C3
VKANSat LVVNTY
WORT][CAROLINA
29
Tom Altierei said Growth area A was already included in the City of Mebane's land
development plan, and was amended to include portions of areas B and C.
Relationship of Areas A-E to Orange County
Future Land Use Map
Next Orange County Step
The Orange County BOCC is scheduled to
meet with the Mebane City Council on
March 9,2021,
ORAVGU2NTY
The Manager Recommends the
Board:
1. Receive staff's presentation-, and
2. Discuss as appropriate.
ORAn�E cOVY
Commissioner Fowler noted that the suitability criteria do not include proximity to
residential or agriculture, and asked if it was correct that these issues do not affect staff
opinion.
Tom Altieri said there are areas with small lot residential developments, which are
identified as needing additional buffering.
Commissioner Fowler said Preston Loop was previously in the Mebane plan, and asked
if it has been taken out.
Tom Altieri said yes.
Commissioner Fowler asked if there is a reason why this action was taken.
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Cy Stober, City of Mebane Development Director, said Preston Loop was omitted at the
request of residents and property owners. He said the Town Council directed staff to omit
those properties.
Commissioner Greene said including areas B, C, and D, would be breaking the Water
and Sewer Management Planning and Boundary Agreement (WASMPBA). She said the public
input meeting was held after the Planning meeting, and Orange County commissioners did not
have a chance to hear about the plan. She said the reasons for not including some of the
areas are compelling. She said there is a lot to discuss and she looks forward to meeting with
Mebane. She said the new line that Mebane is drawing near Squires Road and Medline is
logical. She said if the area were expanded to include B, C, and D, Gravely Hill Middle School
would be included, and this is the lowest wealth part of the County. She said she has concerns
about doing this, and there are a lot of problems with going below West Ten Road.
Commissioner McKee said he wanted to see the B, C, and D expansion areas blown up
with parcels. He said there are larger parcels on the south side of west ten, and asked if the
number of large parcels within these three segments is known.
Craig Benedict said area B has 4 parcels, totaling 250 acres. He said C and D have
smaller acreage size per parcel, and staff can get bring blown up maps to the March 91n
meeting.
Commissioner McKee said large parcels contiguous to each other are more attractive to
developers, and would have less impact to immediate neighbors. He said he is aware of the
WASMPBA agreement, and he would be reluctant to reject the idea of increasing the Buckhorn
EDD without speaking with WASMPBA partners. He said there are other businesses in these
areas already, and this is an attractive area for development. He said this area needs good
paying jobs, and there must be a middle path to pursue that protects the environment but
secures good jobs.
Chair Price asked if the owners of properties in B, C, and D are known.
Craig Benedict said he would get the list of owners in the area. He said the owners in
area A, some owners in B, and owners in area C north of Ten Road, are interested in selling.
He said these owners are familiar with the study area, and are interested in the planning
process. He said owners in area B are interested in selling, due to the proximity to Medline.
Chair Price recalled the County saying there would be no development south of West
Ten Road, and while she knows circumstances can change, it feels like the County is
pressuring people to change that original plan.
Craig Benedict said in the implementation process, the County could choose not to
address this issue until a person comes forward with a request. He said land use could stay as
it is, and requests to change could be addressed as they occur. He said it is up to the property
owner.
Chair Price said area D is designated as agricultural residential, and asked if there is a
reason this is being changed to economic development.
Craig Benedict said no change is being made, but the study has shown that this area
has economic development potential based on viability criteria scores. He said there are no
recommendations to change anything.
Chair Price said when things are put on a map, and changes proposed, it sends a
message to the community.
Craig Benedict said areas of C, D, and E have low interest, and maybe they should not
be part of the plan.
Chair Price asked if there were public comments made by those who would be
immediately affected.
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Craig Benedict said the main concerns were about traffic on West Ten Rd, and impacts
on the watershed. He said these areas are not in a protected watershed. He said concerns
were also raised about proximity of non-residential to residential.
Tom Altieri said there were also concerns about lighting, noise, and requested buffering.
Commissioner Greene said people looking at the economic development district (EDD)
as defined would think it was decided. She said having the EDD would then lead to rezoning.
She said there is an assumption that it would happen. She said changing a WASMPBA line is
a serious decision. She said the existing EDD has areas that are ripe for development.
Commissioner Bedford asked if the process for annexation could be identified.
Cy Stober said it is a 2-month process. He said the item, with all proper documentation,
goes before City Council, a public hearing will be held, and the request considered at the next
meeting. He said the City may provide utilities without annexing, and there is a lot of non-
contiguous annexation in Orange County portion of the City of Mebane, and there is no cap on
this.
Commissioner Bedford asked if there is a property within the Orange County portion of
the City of Mebane, and a conflict arises between the City's plan/UDO and the County's
plan/UDO, which plan wins.
Cy Stober said the City plan would be followed.
Craig Benedict said State statutes give powers to the Cities in annexation.
Commissioner Bedford asked if the City of Mebane is a signatory on WASMBPA.
Cy Stober said no.
Commissioner Bedford clarified that the City could take action regardless of WASMBPA.
Cy Stober said yes.
Commissioner Bedford asked if there is a plan in place if road improvements are
needed in an area that straddles two MPOs.
Cy Stober said Mebane enjoys a very productive working relationship with the County on
transportation matters.
Craig Benedict said the Comprehensive Transit Plan is a joint effort, adopted by local
MPOs, and is consistent to what would be needed to make road improvements. He said the
Department of Transportation (DOT) is still part of the process for roadway impacts, and
meeting certain criteria in Mebane is the same as meeting criteria in Orange County.
Commissioner Bedford said she read the Buckhorn Area Plan last night, and expanding
area B makes sense to her. She said Orange County has locally designated critical areas for
the watershed, which are not in the plan. She asked if clarification could be provided on this, as
it could remove area D altogether.
Craig Benedict said he could speak on that at a future meeting. He said Orange County
went beyond what the state designates as critical areas. He said there is a County policy to
focus growth on a 10% area of watershed and allow 70% impervious surface. He said this
growth is focused around the interstates. He said Mebane can use Orange County's system or
use its own.
Commissioner Bedford asked if part of area B had been gifted to a non-profit.
Cy Stober said the Hillsborough Youth Athletic Association is working with a non-profit
on about on a 25-35 acre wedge in this area. He said he does not yet know the details of this
partnership, but will include it on future maps.
Commissioner Bedford said she shares some of Commissioner Greene's concerns
about transitioning the area near the school. She said there is mention of a new zoning area,
and asked if clarification could be provided.
Cy Stober said the council of governments drafted a document so that Mebane could
develop a similar structure to Orange County for industrial zoning.
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Craig Benedict said local ordinances are being compared side by side to insure proper
development. He said whether annexation occurs early or late, the land development
standards do not want to be changed dramatically.
Commissioner Bedford said there may be a nature preserve around Seven Mile Creek,
and asked if this could be included on maps. She said it would be good to have all potential
items on the map, both development and items that could benefit the community.
Craig Benedict said he would show where the existing nature preserves are.
Commissioner McKee said the original thinking was for the EDD to focus growth along
the interstate.
Craig Benedict said these areas along the interstate were designated for commercial
industrial transition activity nodes in 1981. He said the change was made to EDDs in the
1990s, and the land was pre-zoned at that time. He said this allowed EDDs to be close to
transportation corridors. He said the County owns the school site, and recreation area next to
it. He said Medline took 176 acres, and there is interest in the flea market. He said interest is
coming around.
Commissioner McKee referred to the current parcels in the existing EDD, and asked if
anyone has ever been forced to sell land in an EDD. He said zoning does not force someone
to accept an offer.
Craig Benedict said if there was pre-zoning, the Planning Department would work with
the property owner to see if they were interested. He said no one is forced to sell.
Commissioner McKee said he would not anticipate that all of the land in the EDD would
be sold, thus it makes sense that contiguous land to the EDD, which scored high, would be a
natural step to include.
Commissioner McKee said he had several questions, for which he would appreciate
staff researching the answers:
-How much money has been spent on infrastructure for development?
-The investment, to date, which that infrastructure has brought to the County?
-How much tax revenue, jobs, and average salary have been generated by the
investments made due to the infrastructure?
Commissioner Greene said there is an overlay map on page 38 in the agenda packet,
where one can see the contiguous parcels. She said there is a great deal of information that
could be gathered about these parcels, and she would be curious to know what the land south
of Route 10 might be worth if it were used for producing crops. She said some of these areas
would require significant infrastructure investment in order to develop.
Commissioner Hamilton reminded the BOCC of the importance of explaining things like
WASMBPA, and its context in County history. She said scoring metrics are weighted, and
those weights will influence how one views a property. She said she would like a sense of what
types of developments are being considered for these areas, the potential benefits and the
potential costs. She said she wants to understand trade offs, and to remember the
environment. She said people do look at theses maps, and will make decisions based on them.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
Beth Bronson read the following statement:
Good evening County Commissioners,
My name is Beth Bronson and I reside in Cheeks Township, the census tract under
consideration in The Buckhorn Area Plan. Data used to curate and finalize the Buckhorn Area
Plan comes mere months before updated census information is released, and the tightrope
process of redistricting begins. The request for fast tracking approval also comes ahead of
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state required updates to each municipality's Universal Development Ordinances. Changes that
would include much needed verbiage for the regulation of rural development and the removal of
conditional use permits.
The Buckhorn Area Plan will determine the future of 1000s of acres. Economic AND
Residential. As noted earlier, a handful of non-contiguous parcels are already annexed into
Mebane city limits, and the remaining, are a majority agriculture and rural residential parcels
(R1) within county jurisdiction. While I understand this plan does not force the selling, re-zoning,
or annexation of rural residential within this commercial-industrial transition activity node
(CITAN), this area has been under review for decades without much established. Now both
planning departments want to justify extending the scope of prospective commercial
development areas. This is curious, as the plan before you does not incorporate prior
recommendations within existing comprehensive land use or transportation plans. To clarify, I
have, and I know my neighbors have, worked extremely hard to make ourselves familiar with
both municipality's comprehensive guidance documents, plans, and the multitude of land use
maps.
• If plans for this EDD have been in process, why haven't capital improvement projects
such as roadways and telecommunications been at the forefront of these discussions?
• If four out of the 5 growth areas —the primary outcome of the BAP lie mainly within OC
and outside of Mebane's city limits and their ETJ, I hope to understand why Orange
County would not have held the responsibility of reviewing and adopting/recommending
a plan such as this before being presented to Mebane City Council?
The Mebane Planning Board and City Council have been gracious in considering our input of
the Buckhorn Economic Development District. However, as inquiring Orange County residents,
we cannot help but feel discounted in our efforts. Point in fact, that they do not owe us
representation. To Mebane, Orange County is the driver of this expansion because they quote:
"wanted to bring water and sewer out this way," [03Feb21 Mebane Council Meeting] and we
should have expected this when we made our investments.
In every existing future land use map, as current as the 2019 E-B-M AMP, [Efland Buckhorn
Mebane Access Management Plan] this economic development district has been clearly
delineated between commercial use, and rural residential: discouraging commercial
development south of West Ten Rd, citing access to utilities and important watershed
protections. There is an obvious need for both municipalities to incorporate mutually agreed
upon regulation to protect existing and future residents and our surrounding environment.
In the meantime, I look forward to seeing the collaboration of both governing bodies to execute
a growth strategy that is thoughtful about how and why economic development should occur,
rather than simply where.
Chair Price lost connection to the meeting at 10:16 p.m.
Vice Chair Bedford led the meeting until Chair Price was able to return.
Fiona Johann read the following statement:
Hello, I'm Fiona Johann. I live in Mebane and have been an orange county resident for 20
years. I am speaking today in opposition of the Buckhorn Area plan (BAP) as it stands. I speak
as someone who has been following this plan progress through the Mebane City Planning
Board since the November 9 meeting.
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This plan goes against the Efland/Mebane Small Area Plan, the Orange County 2030
Comprehensive Land Use Plan and the Parks and Rec yearly reports. These are the
documents that local home buyers had available to them when choosing where to invest their
hard earned income while buying homes. All of the aforementioned plans make it clear that the
area NORTH of West Ten was slated to be developed into an industrial zone and I assumed,
perhaps naively, that Orange County and Mebane City would stick to these plans in fairness to
local land owners.
The BAP will make it very easy for developers to extend industrial zoning into rural residential
areas. Creating a rural industrial zone that none of the neighbors signed up for. What baffles
me is why both Orange County and Mebane are looking to extend this industrial area before the
land that was previously slated for this type of development has been used to its capacity. I
could image in 20 years if or when all that land is actually developed that city and county alike
might want to venture outside this area, but why now when there is so much open land
available in previously industrial slated growth areas?
I ask that instead of the BAP as it is currently stands that Orange County and Mebane City
come together and create a binding land use plan that encompasses the original industrial
growth area, south of highway 70 and north of West Ten Rd, as seen in the 2030
comprehensive land use plan. This would provide Orange County residents with assurance that
both Orange County and Mebane City must be in agreement before any more properties are
annexed to Mebane City and rezoned for industrial use. I would also ask that all the building
"recommendations" currently listed in the BAP be made requirements of any developer looking
to build. A binding joint land use plan would mean that those of us in the area can count on our
elected officials to have a vote instead of the City of Mebane simply annexing our neighboring
lots to be rezoned to industrial sites.
This is already happening in the area; as an example I give you 6016 West Ten Road. It was
recently annexed into Mebane and then rezoned to M-2. Many neighbors argued against this, a
city council member used you, Orange County, as an excuse for why this rezoning happened,
all the while this rezoning was never brought to orange county, meaning area citizens had no
elected representation in the matter. This is why I am asking for a BINDING LAND USE PLAN
as an official policy document adopted by both Orange County and Mebane City, encompassing
the original industrial development area indicated on both the Orange county and Mebane city
land use plans. I ask for this so that your constituents are not repeatedly left in a grey area of
non-representation by elected officials. Thank you for your time.
Aimee Tattersall said she has lived on the west side of Squires Road for 35 years. She
said her neighbors on the east side are within 300 feet of Area B. She said her neighbors
received a letter dated October 28, 2020 that felt threatening, about property being in the study
area. She read the opening paragraph of the letter, and then read the following statement to the
Board:
Are you Commissioners are aware of that letter? The Mebane planning board discussed the
plan on November 9 and the city had a public meeting on November 10. The planning board
approved the plan without, to my knowledge, any planning board member actually looking at
the land from Squires Road or any of the other roads off West 10. (and neither have any of you
since Medline started construction). Did anyone from Piedmont Triad Regional Council
actually walk any of the roads, rather than relying on GIS maps?
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This plan was presented to the Mebane City Council on Dec 7th. That was when all of us--
mayor, council, residents—realized there was no plan to bring the proposal to the Orange
County Board of Commissioners. Fortunately the Mebane City Council postponed any decision.
The BAP Overview only considers M-2 zoning (research, office, manufacturing, warehouse,
etc.). It mentions walkability but makes no mention of other options such as housing (owner and
or rental) that Orange County needs, especially but not only places for employees of Medline
and Neyer (6016 West 10) to live in the county where they work. Area B could be zoned for
homes with public trails through the property to the proposed park, Seven Mile Creek, Gravelly
Hill and the soccer complex. Think beyond more warehouses.
There are at least 100 dwellings along West 10 between Mt. Willing Road and Buckhorn Road
if you include the roads that end at West 10, such as Squires Road (with 14 homes and 3
unbuilt lots) and Coleman Loop (more than 20) and Bushy Cook Road. Also two churches and
Gravelly Hill Middle School.
Two warehouses on West 10 are already more than enough light manufacturing. Instead focus
your attention on areas already designated as economic development zones.
I ask you to delay any decision about the Buckhorn area plan until Orange County, Mebane and
most importantly the residents who live here can assess traffic, water runoff, noise and pollution
from the two warehouses already approved for West 10. Let's work together and think
strategically about the needs of the Buckhorn Area. Thank you.
Chair Price returned to the virtual meeting at 10:20 p.m.
Patty O'Connor read the following statement:
My name is Patty O'Connor and I live on Squires Road, directly across from the Medline
Distribution Center and adjacent to the recently re-zoned Neyer property at Buckhorn and West
Ten Roads. With the completion of Medline and the 500,000 square foot warehouse to be built
on the Neyer land, there will be 1.7 million square feet of warehousing on a quarter mile stretch
of road. When Medline develops their rezoned property on the south side of West Ten, the
sweet, wooded Squires Road community will sit embedded in a rural industrial park with
hundreds of estimated daily truck trips around us and all of the accompanying congestion,
noise, and diesel fumes. And let's not forget to mention the environmental and aesthetic
degradation. This part of Mebane is absolutely NOT going to be charming. Our ways of life, our
homes and land values stand to be negatively impacted. I am asking tonight, that you, the
BOCC, assume a larger role in partnering with Mebane for the Buckhorn Area Project. The
residents living along this corridor chose their homes for a reason and most probably believed
that the zoning of the lands around their homes would offer some protections. After all, that's
the purpose of zoning. The Buckhorn area, even if some rezoning takes place, does not have to
be a stretch of warehouses from one end of the road to the other. There is other development
more suited to these rural areas and I ask that you task the planning department with being
more creative in their thought processes and seeking citizen input when considering any
development of these areas. In addition to pursuing sources of tax revenue, the goal should be
to seek useful development that enhances a community while preserving its character. The
residents at the western end of end of West Ten Road stand to pay a terrible price for the lack
of thoughtfulness in planning for these semi-rural lands.
Andrea Riley read the following statement:
My name is Andrea Riley and I have lived in Efland for thirty years. I want to talk to you tonight
about the desire of Orange County residents to be involved in Orange County's future planning
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for its land use development. It has been 14 years since the Efland/Mebane Small Area Plan
was written, and there has been no appreciable public input to an updated plan since then. The
fact that there was so much public interest expressed in the recent proposal to rezone the 104
acres at the intersection of Mt. Willing Road and 1-40/1-85 in Efland should indicate just how
strongly the citizens of northwestern Orange County, and indeed all of Orange County, feel
about the kind of development they want to see going forward.
There is an opportunity at this point in time, following the heightened interest that the Efland
Station proposal has aroused in this community, to take advantage of this energy and focus, by
inviting as many groups as possible to participate in making the land development decisions for
all of the communities of the Efland/Mebane area. The Mt. Willing Road/1-40/1-85 site is still a
prime area for development under the O/RM zoning ordinance. The Buckhorn Area Plan
involves land in both the Efland and Mebane communities and should respect the Economic
Development Districts already identified. Now is the perfect opportunity for a joint citizens' task
force to be implemented which could look at the Efland Station site and the Buckhorn Area Plan
to determine what kinds of development would meet the needs and wants of both communities.
There seems to be a fixed determination on the part of the Orange County Planning
Department and Economic Development to look for only the large industrial developments that
will take advantage of the interstate highway. Why is industrial development the only type of
development being considered? These developments will disrupt the existing neighborhoods
and ecosystems already in place and will need to be factored into the planning by the people in
Efland and Mebane who understand their value and want to see them preserved.
There are many citizens of northwestern Orange County who want to contribute to the process
of identifying and recruiting businesses and services, which truly meet the needs of all of the
citizens of this area of the county. We would like to see the county take a more proactive
approach to land use in this area, using its resources to identify and incentivize development
that serves the local citizens who have been long overlooked.
Protection of the environment is an essential concern for the citizens of Efland and Mebane and
we wonder why, in the Buckhorn Area Plan that you see tonight, under"Environmental Impact",
it states, "There are no Orange County Environmental Responsibility Goal impacts associated
with this item"? The residents of Efland and Mebane want their concerns for Seven Mile Creek
and its tributary streams addressed in any land use plan affecting this fragile area. We hope
you will see that there is a need for cooperative planning involving the citizens of the
Efland/Mebane Small Area and Buckhorn Area in concert with the Orange County Planning
Department, and that you will provide us with that opportunity. Thank you.
Commissioner Greene said she has visited the area, and the traffic will be terrible, even
with just the addition of Medline. She said the BOCC will need to adopt a traffic plan. She said
there is digital development going on, and residents are getting letters regularly from
developers to sell, so there is pressure out there. She said drawing a line will increase this
pressure.
Craig Benedict said if the BOCC wants any additional information prior to the March 9`h
meeting with Mebane, it can forward those request to him. He said this area plan was
developed in concert with the County's Economic Development Department, and it goes far
beyond just land use. He said some of this evening's questions will be answered by Economic
Development Department, and others, he will answer.
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8. Consent Agenda
• Removal of Any Items from Consent Agenda
Items 8-b
• Approval of Remaining Consent Agenda
A motion was made by Commissioner Bedford, seconded by Commissioner McKee to
remove item 8-b, and approve the remaining items on the consent agenda, with 8-e as revised
and discussed at the beginning of the meeting
Roll call ensued
VOTE: UNANMIOUS
• Discussion and Approval of the Items Removed from the Consent Agenda
8-b. Chair Price said Leon Meyers was mentioned during the February 9, 2021 work
session as a potential nominee for an At-Large appointment to the Board of Adjustment. She
said Leon Myers expressed a willingness to serve.
A motion was made by Commissioner Fowler, seconded by Commissioner McKee to
appoint Mr. Meyers to the Board of Adjustment.
Commissioner Bedford offered a friendly amendment to the motion, to also appoint all of
the other individuals listed on the consent agenda item 8-b to their respective Advisory Boards
and Commissions, as well as Mr. Meyers.
Commissioner Fowler and Commissioner McKee accepted the amendment.
Roll call ensued.
VOTE: UNANMIOUS
a. Minutes
The Board approved the draft minutes for the January 5, 2021 Virtual Public Hearing (continued
to January 12, 2021) and the January 19, 2021 Board of County Commissioners Virtual
Business Meeting.
b. Advisory Boards and Commissions —Appointments
The Board approved the Advisory Boards and Commissions appointments as reviewed and
discussed during the February 9, 2021 Work Session.
c. Resolution Acknowledging February 23, 2021 as Spay Neuter Day in Orange County,
North Carolina
The Board adopted an official resolution, which is incorporated by reference, declaring February
23, 2021 is "Spay Neuter Day" in Orange County, authorize the Chair to sign, and receive a
written update about the County's spay and neuter program.
d. Designation of 401 Valley Forge Road, Hillsborough, NC as Surplus Property
The Board voted to:
1. Approve the designation of 401 Valley Forge Road, Hillsborough, NC as surplus property;
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2. Approve the selection of Marcus & Millichap Real Estate Investment Services to market
and solicit offers necessary to sell this property; and
3. Authorize the County Manager to sign a contract with Marcus & Millichap Real Estate
Investment Services.
e. Contract Approval for Fiber Backbone Connecting the West Campus to the New
North Campus
The Board authorized the Manager to execute an Agreement with NetPlanner, Inc. in order to
connect facilities with County owned fiber optic backbone, thereby distributing network and
phone services to the following facilities:
1. West Campus
2. Whitted Building
3. North Campus
a. Detention Facility
b. Environment Agricultural Center
c. Parks Operations Base.
f. Lease of Land for High Rock Waste and Recycling Center
The Board authorized entering into and the execution of a twenty (20) year lease of land for the
High Rock Road Waste and Recycling Center.
g. Approval of a Resolution Authorizing a Revision in the Resolution Adopted April 21,
2020 That Authorized the Orange County FY 2020-2021 HOME Program Design
The Board approved a revision in the resolution adopted April 21, 2020 that authorized the
Orange County FY 2020-2021 HOME Program Design.
h. Zoning Atlas Amendment: Master Plan Development Conditional Zoning District
(MPD-CZ) for Efland Station — Notice of Application Withdrawal
The Board formally acknowledged the withdrawal of a Master Plan Development Conditional
Zoning District (MPD-CZ) application.
9. County Manager's Report
Bonnie Hammersley highlighted an information item in the agenda packet, regarding the
use of school nurses and School Resource Officers during COVID-19. She said the second
quarter financial report is also included.
10. County Attorney's Report
John Roberts highlighted information in the agenda packet on increasing affordable
housing through the UDO. He said some options are easy to accomplish, some are difficult,
and others would be politically unpopular/difficult to accomplish.
Commissioner Greene petitioned the BOCC to have a work session on this topic.
The Board agreed by consensus.
11. *Appointments
NONE
12. Information Items
• February 2, 2021 BOCC Meeting Follow-up Actions List
• Memorandum —Annual Report of the Community Child Protection Team (CCPT)
• Memorandum — Financial Report- Second Quarter FY 2020-21
• Memorandum — Options for Increasing Affordable Housing in Orange County Through
the Unified Development Ordinance
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• Memorandum — Use of School Nurses and School Resource Officers by Chapel Hill-
Carrboro City Schools and Orange County Schools during the COVID-19 Pandemic
13. Closed Session
NONE
14. Adjournment
A motion was made by Commissioner McKee, seconded by Commissioner Bedford to
adjourn the meeting at 10:39 p.m.
Roll call ensued
VOTE: UNANMIOUS
Renee Price, Chair
Laura Jensen
Clerk to the Board
Submitted for approval by Laura Jensen, Clerk to the Board.