HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda 04-14-22; 1 - Boards and Commissions – Annual Work Plan Summaries 1
ORANGE COUNTY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date: April 14, 2022
Action Agenda
Item No. 1
SUBJECT: Boards and Commissions — Annual Work Plan Summaries
DEPARTMENT: Board of Commissioners
ATTACHMENT(S): INFORMATION CONTACT:
Annual Work Plan Summaries Clerk's Office, 919-245-2130
PURPOSE: To provide feedback and/or direction on the second group of boards and
commissions' annual work plan summaries with their Chairs (or representatives) in attendance.
(A first group of boards and commissions' annual work plan summaries were discussed at the
Board's March 10, 2022 work session.)
BACKGROUND: In the past, as part of the Board of Commissioners' annual planning and goal
setting retreats, the Board requested and reviewed/provided feedback on annual plan summaries
from the County's internal advisory boards and commissions. The information provided the Board
with a yearly overview of the boards and commissions and their projected goals for the upcoming
year. This particular process ended in 2007. The Board decided at its April 13, 2010 meeting to
reinstate this process independent of the Board's annual retreats.
Boards and Commissions Represented at this meeting:
Board Name Representatives) Presenting
Orange County Parks and Recreation Council Mikki Fleming
Historic Preservation Commission Art Menius
Agricultural Preservation Board Portia McKnight
Commission for the Environment Kim Piracci
Arts Commission Fred Joiner
Advisory Board on Aging Dr. Heather Altman
Adult Care Home Community Advisory Committee Shade Little
Nursing Home Community Advisory Committee Vibeke Talley
Board of Health Bruce Baldwin
Board of Social Services Pat Garavaglia
FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no financial impact associated with providing feedback and/or
direction on the boards and commissions' annual work plan summaries.
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SOCIAL JUSTICE IMPACT: The following Orange County Social Justice Goal is applicable to
this item:
• GOAL: ENABLE FULL CIVIC PARTICIPATION
Ensure that Orange County residents are able to engage government through voting and
volunteering by eliminating disparities in participation and barriers to participation.
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: There is no Orange County Environmental Responsibility Goal
impact associated with this item.
RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends the Board review the annual work plan
summaries from boards and commissions and provide feedback and/or direction.
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NAME OF BOARD/COMMISSION Parks and Recreation Council
Report Period January 2021-December 2021
ORANGE COUNTY ADVISORY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
ANNUAL REPORT/ WORK PLAN FOR THE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
The Board of Commissioners appreciates the dedication of all the volunteers on their
boards and commissions and welcomes input from various advisory boards and
commissions throughout the year. Please complete the following information, limited to
the front and back of this form. Other background materials may be provided as a
supplement to, but not as a substitute for, this form.
Board/Commission Name: Parks and Recreation Council
Person to address the BOCC and contact information: John Greeson, Chair
(johngreeson(o_)_nc.rr.com)
Primary County Staff Contact: David Stancil, DEAPR Director
How many times per month does this board/commission meet, including any special
meetings and sub-committee meetings? First Wednesdays of each month;
Intergovernmental Parks Work Group meetings (twice a year); biennial joint
county/town parks and recreation advisory board meetings.
Brief Statement of Board/Commission's Assigned Charge and Responsibilities.
The Council serves as the advisory board for provision of parks facilities and
recreation programs. It shall suggest policies, within its powers and
responsibilities as stated in Article 26 of the Code of Ordinances. The Council
shall consult with and advise the Board of Commissioners and staff in matters
affecting recreation policies and programs, advise on the acquisition of parkland
and lands for recreation programs, and advise on long-range planning for
recreation and parks, including the development of plans, studies and reports.
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What are your Board/Commission's most important accomplishments?
The Council was the lead advisory board for the Parks and Recreation Element of
the County Comprehensive Plan, and the 2014 adopted Parks and Recreation
Master Plan 2030, on which the Council reviews and provides feedback. In
addition, the PRC began receiving regular reports and providing feedback on
Mountains to Sea Trail progress in 2019. The PRC has also advised the Board and
staff on a variety of topics, including:
• Recommendations on FY 2021-22 Outside Agency Funding Requests
• Construction/opening plans for Blackwood Farm Park and other new facilities
• Provide feedback on Lands Legacy Action Plans
• Hearing from local residents about community recreation or park facility needs,
developing recommendations where needed
• Capital funding recommendations for parks/open space (Capital Investment Plan)
• Sponsor of The Nature of Orange Photography Contest
• Report and feedback on LocalFest
• Periodic site visits to County parks, including one meeting per year
• Review and feedback on recreation and athletic programs
List of Specific Tasks, Events, or Functions Performed or Sponsored Annually.
• Serve as Mountains to Sea Trail (MST) Advisory/Steering Committee (quarterly
review/reports)
• Co-sponsor, "Nature of Orange" Photography Contest
• Review of Outside Agency funding recommendations (recreation)
• (Biennial) Joint county/town P&R advisory boards meeting
• Support for department functions and special events
• Review of annual Capital Investment Plan proposal for parks
• Receive annual report on Recreation and Athletics programs
• Receive annual report on Parks and Trails facilities
• Prepare Annual Report and Work Plan for BOCC
• Receive requests from county residents and organizations for local recreation
facility needs, and develop recommendations for the BOCC
Describe this board/commission's activities/accomplishments in carrying out BOCC
goal(s)/priorities, if applicable.
The PRC was the lead advisory board for the Parks and Recreation Master Plan
2030 and regularly reviews progress toward the Comprehensive Plan goals and
has served as a "steering committee." The PRC also was the lead advisory board
in the creation of the Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2030. (Goal 5)
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The PRC reviews site plans for major subdivision applications in the county's
jurisdiction. As needed, recommendations are made on potential land dedication
for parks and open space. (Goal 5)
The Council reviews plans and advises on new park construction and openings
(such as Blackwood Farm Park, Hollow Rock Nature Park), and participates in
park master planning efforts. (Goal 6)
Describe the collaboration relationship(s) this particular board has with other advisory
boards and commissions?
During the Covid-19 pandemic, collaboration activities have been necessarily
curtailed. However, the Council has in past years collaborated with the
Commission for the Environment and the Intergovernmental Parks Work Group,
and also shared information with the Board of Health on healthy lifestyles and
parks. The PRC regularly meets with its sister advisory boards in the three towns,
the most recent of which was in April 2019. The Council also advised and
reviewed information from Orange County Sportsplex, the Town of Hillsborough,
Fairview Community Watch, the Occoneechee Tribal Council and the Alliance for
Historic Hillsborough (River Park).
Identify any activities this board/commission expects to carry out in 2022 as they relate
to established BOCC goals and priorities. If applicable, is there a fiscal impact (i.e.,
funding, staff time, other resources) associated with these proposed activities (please
list).
• Conduct a mid-plan assessment of the 2030 Parks and Recreation Master
Plan (adopted November 2014)
• Continue to advise and review on Mountains to Sea Trail activities on a
quarterly basis
• Review and advise on continuing new virtual programming instituted
during 2020 as part of the COVID-19 response.
• Explore potential for collaboration with other potential partners for
additional indoor recreational facilities. Work to investigate and quantify
how many people are unserved in current conditions.
• Look at how Covid has changed community recreation needs, and make
recommendations accordingly.
• Receive quarterly updates on recreation activities and programs, and park
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facility improvements. Provide feedback on opportunities.
• Review and help plan for the Nature Preserve and public access areas at
the Greene Tract and Headwaters Preserve, in conjunction with the
Commission for the Environment and other parties.
• Hold the delayed biennial joint advisory boards meeting with town boards.
• Look at the possibility of combining existing trail planning work from prior
years — plus trail planning from inside the towns - into a County Trails Plan,
and examine previous efforts at connectivity to adjoining counties.
What are the concerns or emerging issues your board has identified for the upcoming
year that it plans to address, or wishes to bring to the Commissioners' attention?
• Continue to monitor and participate in conversations about the concept of
the multi-modal trail connecting parks and open spaces between Chapel
Hill/Carrboro and Hillsborough.
• Look at planned recreation programs and park facilities with greater
emphasis on the Racial Equity Plan, and an "equity lens" of evaluating
needs and facilities.
• Indoor recreation space continues to be under high demand, surpassing
the ability of available local facilities to meet needs. Propose to undertake a
renewed effort with the Orange County Schools for use of school facilities
for recreation.
• Look at adding landscaping and plantings to existing parks as a low-cost
improvement. Continue emphasis on protecting and enhancing pollinator-
friendly habitats in County parks and open spaces, with adequate funding.
• Potential for working with towns on a joint resident survey on parks and
recreation needs. All jurisdictions plan to do survey work in 2022 —
opportunity to collaborate and save costs?
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NAME OF BOARD/COMMISSION: Historic Preservation Commission
Report Period: 2021
ORANGE COUNTY ADVISORY BOARDS & COMMISSIONS
ANNUAL REPORT / WORK PLAN FOR THE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Board/Commission Name: Historic Preservation Commission (HPC)
Person to address the BOCC at Retreat (if requested) and contact information:
Chair: Todd Dickinson (919) 732-7538 email: dicres a-)mindspring.com
Vice Chair: Art Menius (443) 605-4355 email: art(a)artmenius.com
Primary County Staff Contact:
Department of Environment, Agriculture, Parks and Recreation
Peter Sandbeck (Cultural Resources Coordinator): 245-2517 psandbeck@orangecountync.gov
How many times per month does this commission meet, including any special meetings
and sub-committee meetings?
Regular meeting: one each month (4t"Wednesday)
Book subcommittee meetings every other month (date varies)
Brief Statement of Commission's Assigned Charge and Responsibilities.
The Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) is charged with the identification, inventory and protection
of architectural and archaeological sites in the County, with publishing and/or offering online records of
this inventory, and advising the Board of County Commissioners on matters pertaining to historic
preservation. The HPC is also charged with providing guidance and a forum for public comments on
National Register nominations and administering the Local Landmark Program as outlined in the
Certified Local Government Program.
What are your Commission's most important accomplishments?
• Historic Resources Book Project: The HPC is nearing completion of its major project to publish
a book documenting the historic resources of Orange County and Hillsborough, working in
partnership with the Alliance for Historic Hillsborough. The project author has researched and
written entries for over 225 historic properties, along with drafts of the historical and architectural
essays to be included in this publication. We have contracted with a highly qualified book design
firm to complete the layout, design and indexing of the book. The pandemic has pushed the
completion date to late 2022.
• Cedar Grove School National Register Nomination: The HPC completed its project to place the
historic Cedar Grove School on the National Register of Historic Places in 2020. Built in 1951 as
the county's first consolidated school for African Americans, it was recently renovated by the
County and is now serving the community as the Cedar Grove Community Center.
• Schley Grange National Register Nomination: Completed a project to have the historically
significant Schley Grange Hall nominated to the National Register of Historic Places in 2020.
This was funded jointly by the Grange and County through Lands Legacy program. The Grange
celebrated this event by holding a major ceremony on the grounds in September, 2021.
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• New Local Historic Landmark Properties: The HPC has approved five diverse historic resources
for landmark designation; research reports are underway and will be submitted to the BOCC in
2022 for approval:
1. Harvey's Chapel AME Church and historic cemetery: 19th century African American cemetery
and the site of the first 1890s church, as well as the present 1940s church building.
2. Old Eno Quaker Cemetery: traditional burying ground for first Quaker settlers in area, dating
back to 1750s, with early gravestones and archaeological remains of the first meeting house.
3. David Faucette House: One of the best-preserved of the county's antebellum houses, built
about 1830 on the banks of the Eno River, featuring fine original woodwork and finishes.
4. Davis Farm Cotton Gin: the county's only surviving cotton gin and press, dating to around
1880.
5. Ridge Road School: the best preserved surviving Black school in the county, dating to the
late 1920s.
• Piper-Cox House at Eno River State Park: The HPC assisted the State Park staff with the
restoration of the house following serious damage from a storm in 2018.
• Historic Preservation Hands-On Workshops: The HPC has hosted two successful hands-on
training workshops to instruct craftspeople and homeowners in the fine art of restoring and
repointing historic brickwork, in partnership with the Alliance for Historic Hillsborough and the
Burwell School Historic Site. Another one is scheduled for May, 2021.
• Annual "Farm to Table" Demonstration for Historic Preservation Month: The HPC members
presented hands-on programs in 2019 on historic woodworking, historic hand tools and
traditional farm life skills for over 300 fourth graders at Blackwood Farm Park, as part of the
annual "Farm to Table" event sponsored by DEAPR. (ongoing)
• Historic Courthouse Archaeoloqy and Preservation Project: Sponsored an archaeological
survey of the Old Courthouse Square, using ground penetrating radar (GPR). Contracted with
an architectural historian to carry out research about Old Courthouse and Square as part of
upcoming CIP project. Partnered with the State Archives to digitize historic Commissioner
minutes, 1868-1940; research/write a report telling the full story of the Courthouse. (ongoing)
List of Specific Tasks, Events, or Functions Performed or Sponsored Annually.
• Submits annual report of all preservation activities to the State Historic Preservation Office to
meet federal requirements needed to maintain Orange County's status as Certified Local
Government. This allows the County to apply for federal grants for historic preservation activities
• Partners local history groups to hold/assist in producing educational and informational programs
that encourage and promote historic preservation as a tool to preserve and enhance community
character, slow down sprawl and encourage smart growth.
• Administers the Orange County Local Historic Landmark Program, including reviews of
proposed restoration work or additions through Certificates of Appropriateness.
• Provides forum for public comments on nominations to National Register of Historic Places
• Conducts reviews of proposed new public infrastructure projects that might have an impact on
historic resources, including cell towers, pipelines and transportation projects>
• Presents annual program at the Farm-to-Table event hosted by DEAPR at Blackwood Farm
Park for 4th graders from local schools (approx. 300) about historic buildings and preservation.
Describe this commission's activities/accomplishments in carrying out BOCC
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goal(s)/priorities, if applicable.
Goal Two: Promote an interactive and transparent system of governance that reflects
community values.
Priority 7: Improve intra-and intergovernmental coordination, cooperation and collaboration.
• The HPC and the Town of Hillsborough worked together to establish a joint review process
for projects affecting cultural resources. The HPC continues to work with Hillsborough and
Carrboro to develop a process for designated historic landmarks in the ETTs.
Goal Three: Implement planning and economic development policies which create a
balanced, dynamic local economy, and which promote diversity, sustainable growth and
enhanced revenue while embracing community values.
• Many of the HPC's major activities (Local Historic Landmarks, historic resource inventory
and mapping and education/public programs) provide support for a range of heritage
tourism initiatives. These activities will help ensure that historic preservation continues to be
an integral part of the planning process to promote sustainable growth while respecting
community values.
• The Historic Resources Book will have a significant impact on cultural resource and heritage
tourism in the county. The promotion and sales of the new book can be used to highlight our
many historic resources, attractions and sites of cultural significance.
Goal Five: Create, preserve, and protect a natural environment that includes clean water,
clean air, wildlife, important natural lands and sustainable energy for present and future
generations.
Priority 15: Complete stewardship and management plans for Lands Legacy.
• The HPC has been actively involved in the stabilization and ongoing preservation work of
the historic buildings at the County's park sites, with a special focus on Blackwood Farm
Park. Members have offered suggestions on potential new uses for buildings that outlived
their original purpose. The collective expertise of HPC members and staff are of great value
in helping the County preserve its important historic structures parks and elsewhere.
If your commission played the role of an Element Lead Advisory Board involved in the 2030
Comprehensive Plan preparation process, please indicate your activities/ accomplishments as
they may relate to the Comprehensive Plan's goals or objectives.
• The HPC provided extensive input into DEAPR staff's development of the Natural and Cultural
System Element of the Comprehensive Plan—specifically the chapter on Cultural and Historic
Resources. The HPC frames its annual work plan around efforts to implement these objectives.
Objective CR-1:
Provide for the systematic identification of historic buildings, objects, districts, sites, structures and
archaeological sites. Update and improve these inventories every 25 years.
• The HPC obtained multiple federal grants to update and maintain the inventory of historic
cultural resources. New property data has been entered into the joint county/state historic
resources database and in the state's master GIS mapping system (HPO-GIS). These
updating projects also provide data and content for the historic resources book project.
• The HPC collaborates with Asset Management Services and Planning to ensure all
archaeological and cultural resources are identified and protected in accordance with the
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County's "Cultural and Archaeological Resources Policy." Through this process, dozens of
Indian and historic archaeological sites have been identified, documented, and mapped.
Objective CR-3:
Work within the Orange County government system to identify and resolve existing policies which
may be in conflict with the County's historic preservation mission.
• HPC and DEAPR staff work closely with Planning staff during the permitting process to
protect historic properties; also coordinate with AMS in the identification and protection of
archaeological resources during County-initiated construction projects.
• Partners with Planning to operate a notification process that allows the HPC to document
historic properties slated for demolition or practice burning.
Objective CR-7:
Encourage publication of material relating to the County's heritage.
• The HPC is now working toward the completion of a high quality book documenting the
county's historic resources, in partnership with the Alliance for Historic Hillsborough. This
book is scheduled to be printed in late 2022.
Objective CR-10:
Establish a dialogue with the other jurisdictions in and adjacent to Orange County to address
cultural resources in areas with or without designated Historic Preservation/District Commissions.
• The HPC worked with the Town of Hillsborough to develop a joint County/Town policy to
better coordinate the mapping and sharing of information regarding cultural resources.
• The HPC continues working with Hillsborough and Carrboro to establish a process to allow
the HPC to designate Local Historic Landmarks within the boundaries of both town's ETJs.
The County Attorney assisted by providing a draft interlocal agreement for HPC review.
Identify any activities this commission expects to carry out in 2022 as they relate to
established BOCC goals and priorities. If applicable, is there a fiscal impact (i.e.,
funding, staff time, other resources) associated with these proposed activities.
Historic Resources Book Project: The HPC will complete the historic resources book, in
partnership with the Alliance for Historic Hillsborough, to be printed in 2022. Our author has
completed writing descriptions and histories for 225 properties, and is in the process of
completing the final chapters of the historical and architectural essays. The Alliance has
contracted with a book design firm to handle the design, layout, editorial and indexing work.
The Alliance and the HPC will embark on a fund-raising effort to raise approx. $35,000 in
private donations needed to pay for final editorial and actual printing costs. (No fiscal
impact—funding provided in prior budget years)
• Dendrochronology Project: The HPC and the Alliance have obtained a private foundation
grant to help fund the use of this scientific process that involves the analysis of tree ring data
obtained by using core samples from original historic building timbers. Careful examination
of the ring count and spacing between rings can be used to determine the age of the original
timbers found in historic buildings. This will support the historic resources book project by
providing accurate construction dates for some of the most important historic buildings in the
County and Hillsborough. (No fiscal impact)
• County Historic Marker Program: The HPC formed a subcommittee to explore possible ways
to develop a County Historic Marker Program, with a focus on developing a modern digital
marker system modeled on other successful marker and map-driven programs that are
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linked to web sites and phone apps The goal is to provide historical content in an
accessible/interactive format about historic resources, places and people. Rural African
American resources and communities are especially endangered and need to be identified
and recognized. (No fiscal impact now)
• Old Courthouse Historical and Architectural Research: Assisted by experienced consultants,
the HPC will continue its long-range project to document the many alterations and changes
to the Old Orange County Courthouse, in preparation for a future CIP project. Findings will
be used to develop high quality historical interpretive exhibits about the courthouse.
(Funding for research phase already approved in prior budget year).
• Promote diversity in the Landmark and National Register Programs: The HPC will continue
to recognize more diverse historic resources through the Local Historic Landmark and
National Register programs, with special focus on African American sites and other
overlooked or threatened historic resources. The HPC seeks to generate at least two new
landmark and/or National Register applications per year (No fiscal impact—already
budgeted in the Lands Legacy program funding)
• Increase focus on Archaeological Resources: Our county possesses a wealth of historic and
pre-historic archaeological resources that illuminate the history and cultural of all our people,
ranging from the Indian cultures to our earliest African and European settlers. The HPC
seeks to highlight/share more information about these significant resources (No fiscal
impact)
• North Carolina Celebration of the USA 250th Anniversary: The HPC will form a sub-
committee to identify sites in the county to highlight and include in state and local planning
efforts to prepare for the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution in 2025-2026. The
HPC will coordinate with other local historic sites and museums to promote this effort. (No
fiscal impact)
• Designating Landmarks in Town ETTs: Develop a final draft interlocal agreement with the
various municipalities to govern the designation of historic landmarks within the various
town's ETJ's; work with municipalities to seek adoption of agreement (No fiscal impact)
What are the concerns or emerging issues your board has identified for the upcoming
year that it plans to address, or wishes to bring to the Commissioners' attention?
• County historic marker program: The HPC believes it is time for the County to create a
digital version of a county-wide historic and cultural marker program, modeled on other
successful marker and map-driven programs that are linked to web sites and/or phone apps.
The goal is to provide historical content in an accessible/interactive format about historic and
cultural resources, places and people, especially communities that are underrepresented by
the existing state historical marker program. Rural African American resources and
communities are especially endangered and need to be recognized. This should be
developed in collaboration with our local governments and other county programs (No fiscal
impact at this time)
• Preservation of endangered rural historic resources: There are numerous endangered
historic structures and Black burial grounds in rural Orange County that merit preservation or
they will soon be lost, effectively erasing much of the county's rural history. The HPC wishes
to develop a small-scale grant program to assist with basic repairs to preserve these, and in
the case of cemeteries, to better identify and mark them with interpretive signage. The HPC
plans to seek grant funding from foundations to help start this program, to be matched by a
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modest level of annual County funding. This program would address the following resources
as high priorities:
o Historic Black schools: The few remaining historic two-room Black schools that
closed in the 1950s are seriously threatened, as are surviving rural slave cemeteries.
o Historic log houses and farm buildings: Many deteriorated log cabins and farm
buildings that tell important stories about the county's history will be lost in the next
decade. Most of these are owned by farm families who face financial challenges and
cannot justify spending money on structures that have no use.
o Abandoned Black burial grounds: There are numerous abandoned informal Black
burial grounds scattered across the county, many of which contain the burials of
those who were enslaved. These are often unmarked or poorly marked and known
only to neighboring landowners, genealogists or elderly descendants of those buried
in these sacred places. They need to be properly identified, researched, mapped and
protected through fencing and permanent interpretive markers.
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NAME OF BOARD/COMMISSION: Agricultural Preservation Board
Report Period: 2021
ORANGE COUNTY ADVISORY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
ANNUAL REPORT/ WORK PLAN FOR THE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
The Board of Commissioners welcomes input from various advisory boards and
commissions in preparation for its annual planning retreat. Please complete the
following information, limited to the front and back of this form. Other
background materials may be provided as a supplement to, but not as a
substitute for, this form.
Board/Commission Name: Agricultural Preservation Board (APB)
Person to address the BOCC at work session- if applicable- and contact
information:
Cecilia Redding, Chair: (919) 522-2285 or cecilia(a-)_d2efarms.com
Portia McKnight, Vice Chair: (919)-360-4213 or portia chapelhillcreamery.com
Primary County Staff Contact:
Peter Sandbeck, DEAPR staff support
How many times per month does this board/commission meet, including
any special meetings and sub-committee meetings?
Once every other month, on the third Wednesdays of January, March, May, July,
September and November.
Brief Statement of Board/Commission's Assigned Charge and
Responsibilities.
The Board's mission statement, adopted in 2005, is "to encourage the voluntary
preservation of farmland from non-farm development, recognizing the importance
of agriculture to the economic and cultural life of the county."
The APB serves as the County government advisory board for agricultural issues
and administers the Voluntary Farmland Protection Program Ordinance (Chapter
48, Orange County Code of Ordinances) as per NCGS 106-735 through 744. The
Board receives and makes recommendations on proposed Voluntary Agricultural
Districts and Enhanced Voluntary Agricultural Districts. The Board is responsible
for preparing and updating (in conjunction with other agricultural agencies) the
Countywide Agricultural Development and Farmland Protection Plan, and the
implementation of the Orange County Comprehensive Plan, Natural and Cultural
Systems Element (Agricultural section). The Board also advises the Board of
Commissioners on agricultural and farmland preservation, agricultural issues
including sustainable agriculture, emerging trends in agriculture, and other
ventures, initiatives and projects.
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What are your Board/Commission's most important accomplishments?
• In 2021 reviewed and recommended approval for 5 additional farms as
Voluntary Agricultural District and Enhanced Voluntary Agricultural District
farms, adding 337 acres to these programs after being approved by the
BOCC. This increased the total enrollment in both programs to 16,845
acres on 138 farms throughout the County (14,250 in VAD and 2595 in
EVAD).
• Formed a subcommittee to study the decline of dairying in Orange County
and to explore the feasibility of promoting new, alternative dairying
operations including regional processing and value added potential
• Since 2016, the APB holds a dedicated seat on the Orange County Food
Council, in recognition of the close ties between the two programs
• Promoted participation in the Century Farm Program by assisting farm
owners with the enrollment process
• Assisted Economic Development in reviewing and evaluating new
applications for the Ag Economic Development Grant Program; two
members of the APB serve on the grant review committee
• Continued installing new road signs to identify farms enrolled in the
Voluntary Agricultural District programs, as well as to recognize
participating farmers and increase program visibility
• Continued to revise and update the County's Voluntary Farmland
Protection Program Ordinance to conform to changes to NC General
Statutes
List of Specific Tasks, Events, or Functions Performed or Sponsored
Annually.
• Reviews and approves applications from farmers seeking to participate in
the VAD/EVAD program, every other month.
• Hosts an annual breakfast for VAD landowners to recognize their efforts to
preserve agriculture and to provide them with current educational
information through presentations and programs (cancelled in 2021 due to
the pandemic).
Describe this board/commission's activities/accomplishments in carrying
out BOCC goal(s)/priorities, if applicable.
• The APB promotes, reviews and recommends new Voluntary Agricultural
Districts and Enhanced Voluntary Agricultural Districts that help protect
farmland (Comp Plan, Natural and Cultural Systems Goal 2).
• The Board oversaw the creation of a long-term plan for agricultural
development and farmland protection, and is working to implement the
provisions of that plan. (Goal 2, Goal 5).
• The APB stays abreast of emerging trends in agriculture, and advises the
Board of Commissioners of new issues or concerns (Goal 5)
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• The APB makes recommendations on goals and objectives for the
triennial Lands Legacy Action Plan (Goal 8).
If your board/commission played the role of an Element Lead Advisory
Board involved in the 2030 Comprehensive Plan preparation process,
please indicate your board's activities/accomplishments as they may relate
to the Comprehensive Plan's goals or objectives.
• The APB promotes, reviews, and recommends Voluntary Agricultural
Districts and Enhanced Voluntary Agricultural Districts (Goal 2 Objective
AG-1, Goal 8 Objective AG-9).
• The APB promotes efforts to increase purchase and consumption of local
foods through its support and membership on the Food Council (Goal 2,
Objective AG-3; Goal 3, Objective AG-7).
• The APB provided input to Planning for the Agricultural Support
Enterprises program, to help promote agricultural economic development
and agricultural entrepreneurialism (Goal 2, Objective AG-1).
Identify any activities this board/commission expects to carry out in 2022
as they relate to established BOCC goals and priorities. If applicable, is
there a fiscal impact (i.e., funding, staff time, other resources) associated
with these proposed activities (please list).
• Encourage the BOCC to consult with the APB in matters relating to
agriculture, in keeping with the APB's Charge which directs the board to
advise the BOCC on agricultural issues.
• Continue to promote and recommend Voluntary Agricultural Districts and
Enhanced Voluntary Agricultural Districts
• Support continuation of the successful Farm-to-Table Event for
approximately 300 students in local 4t" grades, held annually at
Blackwood Farm Park
• Purchase and install additional road signs to better identify farms in the
Voluntary Agricultural District Program (existing and new farms)
• Enroll additional farm owners in the Century Farm Program through
assistance with applications and deed research.
What are the concerns or emerging issues your board has identified for the
upcoming year that it plans to address, or wishes to bring to the
Commissioners' attention?
• The APB continues to believe in the need to establish a permanent
Orange County Agricultural Preservation Fund, with the strong support of
the Orange County Food Council. Prime agricultural land is being
subdivided and developed at an alarming rate and it pushing up land
prices to levels that make it difficult or impossible for new farms to be
established. As a result, farmland throughout the county is being taken out
of production and converted to residential use, which requires greatly
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expanded use of County service. The APB seeks a dedicated source of
revenue to better support the County's existing successful land protection
programs —the Lands Legacy Program that funds conservation
easements, and the Agricultural Economic Development Grant Program
that provides small cash grants to support and expand existing farming
operations.
• Dairy farming continues to disappear in Orange County, after being a
major source of farm income and prosperity since the 1920s. There are
now 3 active dairies in Orange County, representing a precipitous drop
from a high of 117 active Grade A farms in 1954. Commodity milk prices
are too low to support our local dairies through conventional production
strategies. The APB supports the concept of a feasibility study to explore
ways to create a local market for our Orange County dairy products, with
goals of encouraging new small scale dairy farms to produce value-added
products, as well as keeping our existing ones active. Dairy farming once
represented a significant percentage of the County's active open farmland.
• Agritourism continues to be an important way for farm owners to maintain
their farms and diversify. The APB will explore ways to increase
opportunities for educating existing and prospective farmers about the
many new agritourism opportunities now available for enhancing farm
income and bringing visitors into rural areas.
• The average age of our farmers continues to increase, causing concerns
about retirement and farm succession planning. This is an ongoing issue
despite the rising numbers of young people taking up farming. Our "senior"
farmers control and farm a large percentage of the County's prime open
farmland, thus creating the potential for a significant decline in active farm
acreage, and thus open space, over the next decade.
• The majority of the new farm operations now being started in Orange
County are small market crop farms, where crops are grown intensively on
smaller parcels, to be sold locally at markets. The APB supports efforts by
Orange County Economic Development to promote and build facilities to
provide essential processing facilities and cooperative marketing
opportunities to support these small farming operations.
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17
NAME OF BOARD/COMMISSION- Commission for the Environment
Report Period January 2021-December 2021
ORANGE COUNTY ADVISORY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
ANNUAL REPORT/ WORK PLAN FOR THE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
The Board of Commissioners appreciates the dedication of all the volunteers on their
boards and commissions and welcomes input from various advisory boards and
commissions throughout the year. Please complete the following information, limited to
the front and back of this form. Other background materials may be provided as a
supplement to, but not as a substitute for, this form.
Board/Commission Name: Commission for the Environment
Person to address the BOCC and contact information: Kim Piracci
piraccik(a-_)gmaiI.com
Primary County Staff Contact: Christian Hirni, Wesley Poole, David Stancil- Director,
DEAPR
How many times per month does this board/commission meet, including any special
meetings and sub-committee meetings?
The board meets once per month (2nd Monday). No meeting is held during the
month of July. Committees meet as needed during regular meetings.
Brief Statement of Board/Commission's Assigned Charge and Responsibilities.
Purpose: to advise the BOCC on matters affecting the environment, with
particular emphasis on environmental protection and enhancement. Other duties
include:
• Perform special studies/projects on environmental issues as requested by
BOCC
• Recommend environmental initiatives to the BOCC, especially of local
importance
• Study changes in environmental science and environmental regulations in
the pursuit of the CFE's duties
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• Educate the public and local officials on environmental issues
What are your Board/Commission's most important accomplishments?
• As directed by the BOCC, provided comments and recommendations regarding a
large development proposal in Efland (Efland Station 2021)
• Provided ranking and comments to the BOCC for two cycles of the Climate
Action Fund program (2020, 2021)
• Signed Resolution of Support for the Eno New Hope Landscape Conservation
Plan (2021)
• Submitted priority recommendations for Lands Legacy Actions Plan 2021-2024
• Ranked and submitted preferences of first recipients for the first distribution of
Climate Action Tax Funds FY2019-20. Ranking Funds for FY 2020-21 will
proceed through December 2020/January 2021.
• Planning the 2019 State of the Environment report and 12/4/19 Environmental
Summit (2018, 2019)
• Prepared resolutions for BOCC consideration concerning: Anti-Idling Campaign,
Support for Carbon Fee and Dividend legislation, Request for NC to Divest from
Fossil Fuel Corporations, Roadside Wildflower Conservation (2018)
• Developed recommendations for the County's Climate Change Program scoring
system (2019)
• Created subcommittee for Roadside Wildflower Conservation (2019)
• Requested the BOCC consider joining the Global Covenant of Mayors and
Chairs organization concerned with global climate change (2018)
• Wrote a series of climate change articles (2017)
• Developed and posted a Facebook page (2017)
• Edited and recommended a renewable energy resolution to the BOCC (2017)
• Recruited UNC capstone students to assist with the 2019 State of the
Environment report (2017)
• Provided input on updates to the Lands Legacy Action Plan (2017)
• Made recommendations to BOCC on UDO amendment to flexible subdivisions
(2016)
• Initiated a series of newspaper articles on environmental issues featured
previously in the Orange County State of the Environment report (2015-16)
• Made recommendations to BOCC on 2016 bond package, the use of pesticides
at County facilities, and incentives for energy efficient construction (2015)
• Commented to Planning Bd. on proposed changes to impervious surface rules
(2015)
• Provided ideas for Public Services Announcements for County radio spots (2015)
• Collaborated with others on energy conservation and mgmt. projects (2015-16)
• Published the 2014 Orange County State of the Environment report
(reports were previously completed in 2000, 2002, 2004, and 2009)
• Convened Orange County Environmental Summit (2005, 2009, 2014)
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• Made recommendations to BOCC on food waste and solid waste tax district
(2014)
• Worked with Orange County Schools to introduce local environmental indicators
into middle and high school science curricula (2004, 2009, 2014)
• Hosted a Solid Waste Forum with the Chapel Hill Sustainability Committee
(2013)
• Co-sponsored The Nature of Orange photography contest (2012 - 2021)
• Advocated for '/2 cent sales tax referendum for Triangle Region public transit
(2012)
• Compiled annotated bibliography of the effects of forestry on water quality (2012)
• Developed sustainable landscaping and forest management policies for the
administration of County-owned facilities (2010)
List of Specific Tasks, Events, or Functions Performed or Sponsored Annually.
• Co-sponsor "Nature of Orange" Photography Contest
• Liaison to Intergovernmental Parks Work Group
• Review and comment on environmental issues (e.g., anti-idling efforts,
fracking, biosolids application, water pollution, air quality, forest mgmt.)
and other issues assigned by the BOCC
• Identify priorities for the Lands Legacy Action Plan (natural areas and
wildlife habitat)
• Conduct special studies pertaining to Orange County environment (e.g.,
energy efficiency/sustainability, forestry effects on water quality,
herbicides and native flora)
• Conduct environmental education outreach events (e.g., Earth Evening)
Describe this board/commission's activities/accomplishments in carrying out BOCC
goal(s)/priorities, if applicable.
BOCC Goal Five: Create, preserve, and protect a natural environment that
includes clean water, clean air, wildlife, important natural lands and
sustainable energy for present and future generations.
• Presented findings and recommendations to BOCC on selected environmental
issues: 1) roadside wildflower preservation; 2) effects of forest mgmt. on water
quality; 3) effects of herbicides on roadside native plant habitat; 4) potential
effects of hydraulic fracturing ("fracking") in Orange County; 5) need for 100%
renewable energy in Orange County (BOCC Priorities #1 and #12)
Stayed abreast of ongoing and developing env. issues of importance to the County,
such as Falls & Jordan Lake nutrient mgmt. rules, reducing commercial food waste in
solid waste stream, and permitting of biosolids on farmland (Priorities #12 and #16)
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Describe the collaboration relationship(s) this particular board has with other advisory
boards and commissions?
As needed. Members of this commission are also on the Planning Board and the
Intergovernmental Parks Work Group.
If your board/commission played the role of an Element Lead Advisory Board involved
in the 2030 Comprehensive Plan preparation process, please indicate your board's
activities/accomplishments as they may relate to the Comprehensive Plan's goals or
objectives.
(The Element Lead Advisory Boards include: Planning Board, EDC, OUTBoard,
Commission for the Environment, Historic Preservation Commission, Agriculture
Preservation Board, Affordable Housing Board, Recreation and Parks Advisory Council)
The CFE provided extensive input into DEAPR staff development of the
Natural and Cultural Systems Element of the Comprehensive Plan—
specifically the chapters on Air and Energy Resources, Water Resources, and
Natural Areas and Wildlife Habitat.
Objective AE-1:
Assess and implement the current countywide greenhouse gas emissions inventory
and action plan target reductions.
• The CFE helped to initiate a countywide inventory of greenhouse gas emissions
(2005), and continues to advise on ways to reduce the County's "carbon
footprint."
Objective AE-15:
Foster participation in green energy programs such as installation incentives for
solar hot water/solar generation/solar tempering in residential or commercial
construction. The County should develop programs that will link citizens and
businesses with options for alternative and sustainable energy sources.
• The CFE's Energy Resources Committee has developed proposals that address
energy efficiency and renewable power issues, and will pursue further in
collaboration with other advisory boards and stakeholders.
Objective NA-3:
Develop a more detailed and consistent methodology for monitoring changes in
forest cover throughout the County, and specifically the extent of mature hardwood
forest.
• The CFE's State of the Environment report documented significant reductions in
mature hardwood forest that occurred from 2003-2008 and since 1988.
Objective NA-11:
Develop a comprehensive conservation plan for achieving a network of protected
open space throughout Orange County, which addresses 1) threats to important
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natural areas; 2) connectivity between protected areas; 3) coordination with
neighboring counties; and 4) sustainable management of critical natural resources.
• The CFE's Land Resources Committee is participating in a County effort to
identify and preserve important landscape corridors that connect significant
natural areas.
Objective NA-16:
Create a system of public and private open space and conservation areas, including
parks, nature preserves, and scenic vistas representative of Orange County
landscape.
• The CFE advises County's Lands Legacy program in its efforts to protect the
most important natural and cultural resource lands through a variety of means.
• The CFE's Land Resources Committee is participating in a County effort to
identify and preserve important landscape corridors that connect significant
natural areas.
Obiective WR-5:
Promote and participate in regional efforts to plan for use of water supplies in the
region in an equitable manner, including contingency planning for water supplies
during droughts. [Also Objectives WR-9, WR-10, and WR-15]
• CFE advocates for full implementation of the Water Resources Initiative to
ensure planning for an adequate water supply for current and anticipated future
needs
Objective WR-11:
Provide incentives and educational information to landowners to increase protection
of watersheds and ground water supplies and their inter-relationships.
• The CFE distributes groundwater and surface water educational materials at
Earth Evening and as part of its State of the Environment reports
NOTE: The Orange County State of the Environment 2019 identifies specific
recommendations on ways to help maintain and improve Orange County's
environmental quality, many of which address objectives stated in the Orange
County Comprehensive Plan.
Identify any activities this board/commission expects to carry out in 2022 as they relate
to established BOCC goals and priorities. If applicable, is there a fiscal impact (i.e.,
funding, staff time, and other resources) associated with these proposed activities
(please list).
- The CFE will review and rank grant applications for the third cycle of the County
Climate Action Grant
- In collaboration with staff, the CFE will finalize the County Tree Policy for County
owned lands
- The CFE will work with staff to develop a Greene Tract "Headwaters Preserve"
planning and development program. We would like to form a joint subcommittee
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with the Parks and Recreation Council.
- The CFE will support the County plan to tackle water quality issues in the Falls
Lake Watershed, with the Upper Neuse River Basin Association (UNRBA), using
the Interim Alternative Implementation Approach (IATA).
- The CFE would like to review and comment on County rezoning requests, as
soon as the information is available to DEAPR staff.
- The CFE will begin to discuss and make plans to develop the 2024 State of the
Environment Report.
What are the concerns or emerging issues your board has identified for the upcoming
year that it plans to address, or wishes to bring to the Commissioners' attention?
- The CFE would like to support the BOCC and county staff to prepare a Climate
Action Plan in ways that are deemed possible, while being cognizant of legal
restrictions the County is under.
- The CFE has become aware that climate change has urgent impacts on public
health, and would like to start a dialogue with the Board of Health to address this
important issue.
- The CFE would like Orange County to expand composting collection and
education so our citizens and businesses will be able to further reduce food
waste and subsequent environmental impacts.
- The CFE would like to participate in the implementation of the Orange County
COVID-19 Long Term Recovery and Transformation Plan.
- The CFE plans to address Equity (DEIJ) across all aspects of our environmental
recommendations. We look forward to seeing the Racial Equity Plan and using
the implementation tools therein.
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NAME OF BOARD/COMMISSION Orange County Arts Commission
Report Period 2021
ORANGE COUNTY ADVISORY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
ANNUAL REPORT/ WORK PLAN FOR THE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
The Board of Commissioners appreciates the dedication of all the volunteers on their boards and
commissions and welcomes input from various advisory boards and commissions throughout the
year. Please complete the following information, limited to the front and back of this form. Other
background materials may be provided as a supplement to, but not as a substitute for, this form.
Board/Commission Name: Orange County Arts Commission
Person to address the BOCC at work session- if applicable- and contact information:
Fred Joiner, Board Chair; fred.joniner gmail.com / 919-537-6890
Primary County Staff Contact:
Katie Murray, Director; 919-245-2335 / kmurray(o)_orangecountync.gov
How many times per month does this board/commission meet, including any special meetings
and sub-committee meetings?
1 monthly meeting
Brief Statement of Board/Commission's Assigned Charge and Responsibilities.
Created in 1985 as the official government agency on the arts by a Resolution of the Board of County
Commissioners (BOCC), the Orange County Arts Commission serves as a clearinghouse for arts
information, facilitator of arts programs & advisor to the Orange County Board of County
Commissioners regarding the arts. We have been the Designated County Partner (DCP) of the North
Carolina Arts Council in Orange County since 1985 and are responsible for sub-granting state and
county funds to arts organizations, schools and artists throughout the county.
What are your Board/Commission's most important accomplishments?
• Provided resources to aid arts industry during COVID-19 pandemic:
o Raised $134,150 through Orange County Arts Relief fund, providing 45,500 in relief
grants for arts organizations and $88,650 in relief grants to individual artists.
o Requested and received $100,000 in ARPA funding from Orange County, providing
Restart the Arts relief grants to 23 arts organizations.
o Provided regular updates regarding local, state, and federal resources through regular
emails and monthly virtual meetings with arts leaders.
o Served as arts representative for the county recovery plan conducted by Haggerty
Consultants. OCAC director Katie Murray served on Natural and Cultural Resources
Team and the Economic Recovery Team.
o Partnered with arts councils in Durham, Wake, and Chatham counties to present Big
Night In for the Arts on March 11 on WRAL, raising $300k for arts programs across the
Triangle.
• Continued plans with Eno Mill to provide space for artists and community:
o Opened the Eno Arts Mill in October, featuring 7,OOOsf of arts space including a gallery,
OCAC offices, a classroom, four artist studios, and office space for the Art Therapy
Institute. The space is located adjacent to the Eno Mill Artist Studios opened in March
2020, providing working studio space for eleven artists. The grand opening on October
1 welcomed more than 300 visitors to the new space. From October through December,
the space has generated approximately $10,000 in revenue from gallery sales and
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hosted 65 participants in arts classes.
o Continued conversations with mill owners to begin new programs in available space,
including a children's theater program, ceramics studio, community dark room, and
class space.
• Administered annual Arts Grants and Arts Educator Grants Programs.
• Continued plans for Art on the Hill (working title), a large-scale, county-wide public art event
taking place in July, 2023, in partnership with fourteen community and governmental
organizations. Applied for and received a $25k grant from the National Endowment for the Arts
to support the festival.
• Received official 501(c)3 status for the Orange County Arts Alliance — a new nonprofit
organization created to support the work of the OCAC through additional fundraising. The
board of the OCAA is current undergoing a strategic plan with Carl Bauman of SCORE.
• Served as ambassadors and panelists for Triangle-wide partnerships including the Emerging
Artist Program, Piedmont Laureate Program, and the Artist Support Grant Program.
• Served as county lead on behalf of Arts North Carolina, gathering local arts supporters to
advocate for public arts support to state and federal legislators.
• Hosted the 5t" Annual Paint it Orange Plein Air Paint-out & Wet Paint Sale as a fundraiser,
hosting almost 60 artists and raising approximately $5k for arts programs.
• Offered 24 stories of local arts community on artsorange.org through a partnership with music
writer David Menconi and writer Arshia Simkin.
• Partnered with community organizations and municipalities on public art projects including the
African American Trailblazers mural in Chapel Hill, News of Orange mural in Hillsborough, and
the River Park Arch project in Hillsborough.
• Partnered with Orange County Department of Criminal Justice on Our Lens, Our Voice, a
program that used photography and creative expression for justice-involved youth.
• Began work with Town of Hillsborough to explore a future arts and cultural facility.
• Partnered with Triangle ArtWorks to provide professional development training for artists and
organizations.
List of Specific Tasks, Events, or Functions Performed or Sponsored Annually.
• One annual grant cycle that funds artists, schools and nonprofit organizations utilizing state
and county funds
• Annual Arts Educator Grant program that funds professional development opportunities to
local public school arts teachers
• Annual Emerging Artists Program through a partnership with the Durham Arts Council
• Annual Piedmont Laureate Program through a partnership with the Durham Arts Council, the
Raleigh Arts Commission and the United Arts Council of Raleigh and Wake County
• Public Art initiatives
• Operates Eno Arts Mill
• Annual Paint it Orange: Plein Air Paint-out and Wet Paint Sale
• Hosts monthly Arts Partners meetings for leadership of county arts organizations
• Handles Outside Agencies Grant Process for arts-related organizational applicants.
Describe this board/commission's activities/accomplishments in carrying out BOCC
goal(s)/priorities, if applicable.
Goal 3: Implement planning and economic development policies which create a balanced, dynamic
local economy, and which promote diversity, sustainable growth, and enhanced revenue while
embracing community values.
• Economic Development through the arts.
o Advocating for arts support during COVID-19 pandemic, educating leaders on the
economic impact of the arts on our local community and why their survival is critical
to the health of our economy.
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o Working to develop Hillsborough's Eno Mill as an arts destination, which will bring
new activity to West Hillsborough.
o Working in partnership with fourteen community organizations to produce a large-
scale public art festival during the slow summer season in the downtowns of Chapel
Hill, Carrboro, and Hillsborough in Summer 2023.
Goal 6: Ensure a high quality of life and lifelong learning that champions diversity, education at all
levels, libraries, parks, recreation, and animal welfare.
• Education for at-risk children
o The socioeconomic data of area schools is considered during the Arts Grant
application process. The demographic breakdown of students served and rate of
Free and Reduced Lunch is considered when selecting funded programs.
o The OCAC continued to explore new, accessible, arts space to provide arts
participation opportunities for at-risk youth.
• Diversity
o The OCAC Arts Grants review process includes prioritizing of applications that hire
artists of color. Twenty-five percent of 2021-22 grants funds were allocated towards
projects that fulfilled this goal.
• Quality of Life
o As the Designated County Partner with the North Carolina Arts Council, the OCAC
uses the Grassroots Arts Program funds to provide high quality arts experiences to
as many Orange County residents as possible.
o All activities and programs offered by the OCAC are geared towards strengthening
the creative community of Orange County. A thriving arts ecosystem will make
Orange County a more unique and desirable place to live, thus increasing the quality
of life for all residents.
Describe the collaboration relationship(s) this particular board has with other advisory boards
and commissions?
Throughout 2021, the OCAC Advisory Board worked in partnership with:
• The ArtsCenter
• Arts North Carolina
• Chapel Hill Downtown Partnership
• Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau
• Chatham Arts Council
• Durham Arts Council
• Greater Chapel Hill Chamber of Commerce
• Hillsborough Arts Council
• North Carolina Arts Council
• Orange County Artists Guild
• Orange County Department of Housing
• Orange County Department of Senior Services
• Orange County Department of Criminal Justice
• Orange County Department of Parks and Recreation
• Raleigh Arts Commission
• Town of Carrboro — Economic Development/Arts
• Town of Chapel Hill Community Arts and Culture
• Town of Hillsborough
• Town of Hillsborough Tourism Board/Tourism Development Authority
• Triangle ArtWorks
• United Arts Council of Raleigh/Wake County
• UNC - Ackland Art Museum
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• UNC Arts Everywhere
• UNC - Humanities for the Public Good
• UNC - Playmakers Repertory Company
OCAC director Katie Murray served on the following board and committees:
• Local Advisory Board Member, Ackland Art Museum at UNC
• Board Member, Arts North Carolina
• Steering committee member, UNC Humanities for the Public Good Steering Committee
• Steering committee member, Triangle ArtWorks, ArtSwell
Identify any activities this board/commission expects to carry out in 2022 as they relate to
established BOCC goals and priorities. If applicable, is there a fiscal impact (i.e., funding, staff
time, other resources) associated with these proposed activities (please list).
Goal 1: Ensure a community network of basic human services and infrastructure that maintains
protects and promotes the well-being of all County residents.
AND
Goal 4: Invest in quality County facilities, a diverse work force, and technology to achieve a high
performing County government.
• Infrastructure
o Access to creative space is important for our arts community, as well as residents. A
lack of arts space remains a challenge in Orange County. In 2022, we will continue to
work with the Eno Mill to provide space for artists and community. New possible
programs include a children's theater program, ceramics studio, community dark room,
and performing/rehearsal space.
• Access
o Access to arts experiences is critical to the overall well-being of County residents of all
ages. An increase in physical space for the arts would allow local artist organizations
the flexibility to provide more scholarships and free experiences for the public, ensuring
access despite socioeconomic status.
o All new Eno Mill arts spaces will be designed to be barrier-free to ensure accessibility
for all types of people regardless of socioeconomic status and abilities.
Goal 3: Implement planning and economic development policies which create a balanced, dynamic
local economy, and which promote diversity, sustainable growth, and enhanced revenue while
embracing community values.
• Economic Development
o A thriving arts community attracts visitors and businesses and contributes to economic
growth for the overall economy. The OCAC will continue to work with local leaders to
ensure the arts are supported as they prepare to reopen post-pandemic.
o The OCAC, in partnership with fourteen community organizations, will continue planning
for Art on the Hill (working title), a large-scale, county-wide public art event taking place
in July, 2023. The event will drive visitors into the downtown communities of Chapel Hill,
Carrboro, and Hillsborough during a traditionally slow time of year.
Goal 6: Ensure a high quality of life and lifelong learning that champions diversity, education at all
levels, libraries, parks, recreation, and animal welfare.
• Diversity
o The OCAC will continue to prioritize projects that employ artists of color and impact
diverse audiences through our Grassroots Arts Project Grants.
o The OCAC is exploring a county-wide DEI/REI training program for area arts
organizations.
• Education
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o The OCAC will continue to serve as an active partner in Arts in Education
programming for Orange County through the ArtsCenter's Arts in Schools program,
as well as through our grant program and involvement in other school initiatives.
o The OCAC will strategize, with our community partners, ways to offer more, high
quality arts experiences for residents of all ages, races, and socioeconomic
backgrounds within Orange County through our grants program.
• Quality of Life
o Will continue to work in partnership with the Town of Hillsborough, OC-DEAPR, and
Hillsborough Arts Council on the "River Park Arch" public art project which was
delayed in 2020 due to COVID-19.
o Will work in partnership with municipalities and civic groups on future public art
projects.
o Will utilize the Eno Arts Mill to increase arts experiences for local residents.
What are the concerns or emerging issues your board has identified for the upcoming year
that it plans to address, or wishes to bring to the Commissioners' attention?
• OCAC Funding
o The OCAC budget is funded entirely by occupancy tax. Due to the pandemic, our
budget is facing an anticipated 70% decrease in FY22-23. The decreased funds will
impact our Program Expense budget, which funds all OCAC programs other than
our grants management function. Smoothing measures are greatly needed in order
to ensure the OCAC is able to continue providing programming and services for our
community.
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NAME OF BOARD/COMMISSION Advisory Board on Aging
Report Period January 2021-December 2021
ORANGE COUNTY ADVISORY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
ANNUAL REPORT/ WORK PLAN FOR THE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
The Board of Commissioners appreciates the dedication of all the volunteers on their boards and
commissions and welcomes input from various advisory boards and commissions throughout the
year. Please complete the following information, limited to the front and back of this form. Other
background materials may be provided as a supplement to, but not as a substitute for, this form.
Board/Commission Name: Advisory Board on Aging
Person to address the BOCC and contact information: Dr. Heather Altman, Advisory Board on
Aging Chair, Heather@HarmonyAdvisorsNC.com
Primary County Staff Contact: Janice Tyler, Dept. on Aging Director, jtyler@orangecountync.gov
How many times per month does this board/commission meet, including any special meetings and
sub-committee meetings? The Advisory Board on Aging meets monthly. Although because of the
pandemic the board had not been meeting until they resumed meetings in November and are
continuing with a hybrid meeting format. Members play a vital role in the implementation of the Master
Aging Plan including participating in the MAP Steering Committee and leading and supporting six MAP
Implementation work groups that meet quarterly. The MAP Workgroups are Outdoor Spaces and
Buildings; Transportation; Housing; Social Participation and Inclusion; Civic Engagement and
Employment; Community Support and Health Services. The MAP workgroups have continued their
quarterly meetings throughout the pandemic in a virtual environment. There is also board
representation on the Nursing Home Community Advisory Committee, the Adult Care Home Advisory
Committee, and the Intergovernmental Parks and Recreation Commission.
Brief Statement of Board/Commission's Assigned Charge and Responsibilities.
The Advisory Board on Aging suggests policy and makes recommendations to the Board of County
Commissioners and the Department on Aging while acting as the liaison between the older adults of
the county and county government. It is charged with promoting needed services, programs and
funding that impacts older adults.
What are your Board/Commission's most important accomplishments?
• With the assistance of a UNC Ph.D intern and others, completed a ripple effect map of community
work that has been done as a direct result of the 2017-2022 MAP.
• Worked with the UNC Partnerships in Aging to complete an evaluation of the 2017-22 MAP.
• In July started the planning year for the 2022-27 MAP, including a community survey with 1000+
responses. Community outreach was done to assure that our communities of color were well
represented in the survey. In October eight in-person and one virtual community open houses
were held to share the survey findings with the community.
• MAP Workgroups continued to meet quarterly throughout the pandemic.
• The Direct Care Worker Awards were held virtually.
List of Specific Tasks, Events, or Functions Performed or Sponsored Annually.
• Provide Orange County representation to the Triangle J Area Agency on Aging Board and the
Senior Tar Heel Legislature. Board Representatives work on developing legislative priorities for
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the local, regional and state levels.
• Keep community partners up to date on the Master Aging Plan, including providing quarterly
updates of the MAP matrix.
• Make recommendations to the BOCC of potential legislative issues to be included in the Orange
County legislative agenda.
• Review and provide recommendations on applications for the County's Outside Agency Grants.
Describe this board/commission's activities/accomplishments in carrying out BOCC goals)/priorities,
if applicable.
Through the MAP process this board addresses the BOCC goals of promoting and protecting the well-
being of all older adults, including addressing diversity, economic issues and the ability to age in
community. The Aging Board is committed to endorsing board applicants that reflect the diversity of
Orange County and its older adult population.
Describe the collaboration relationship(s) this particular board has with other advisory boards and
commissions?
This board has representation on the Nursing Home and Adult Care Home Community Advisory
Committee and also has representation on the Intergovernmental Parks and Recreation Commission.
Two representatives of this board serve on the TJCOG-AAA Advisory Board on Aging. One
representative to the Intergovernmental Parks and Recreation Commission.
Identify any activities this board/commission expects to carry out in 2022 as they relate to established
BOCC goals and priorities. If applicable, is there a fiscal impact (i.e., funding, staff time, other
resources) associated with these proposed activities (please list).
The major task this year is to complete the updating of the Master Aging Plan for 2022-27. Important to
note is the 2022-27 MAP will be developed using a racial equity lens. All MAP workgroup leaders and
the Board Chair have attended the GARE training.
This board will continue to advocate for affordable senior housing; improvement of the quality of care
in long term care facilities, especially for low-income older adults; expanded transportation for rural
Orange County; and explore more ways to reduced social isolation, especially with the on-going
pandemic.
What are the concerns or emerging issues your board has identified for the upcoming year that it
plans to address, or wishes to bring to the Commissioners' attention?
• Need for more affordable and accessible senior housing, especially rental units and an
emerging concern of the number of seniors living in sub-standard housing.
• Continue work on improving the quality of care in long-term care facilities within the county.
• Further development of a dementia capable county including partnerships with local
businesses and other non-profit organizations.
• The level of financial insecurity of older adults, including the emerging issue of older adults
needing to remain in the work force. Collaboration with DSS and DoA Employment Specialist
for more employment training.
• Addressing the increasing need for in-home services and supports, including the needs of older
adults serving in caregiving roles and the shortage of direct care workers.
• Addressing issues that have surfaced as a result of the pandemic, including social isolation,
hoarding, access to services, caregiver burden, persons aging alone in our community, serving
long-COVID older adults and the increasing frail older adult population.
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NAME OF BOARD/COMMISSION:
Orange County Adult Care Home Community Advisory Committee
Report Period_ January 1, 2021 — December 31, 2021
ORANGE COUNTY ADVISORY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
ANNUAL REPORT/ WORK PLAN FOR THE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
The Board of Commissioners appreciates the dedication of all the volunteers on their
boards and commissions and welcomes input from various advisory boards and
commissions throughout the year. Please complete the following information, limited to
the front and back of this form. Other background materials may be provided as a
supplement to, but not as a substitute for, this form.
Board/Commission Name: Orange County Adult Care Home Community Advisory
Committee
Person to address the BOCC at work session- if applicable- and contact
information:
Shade Little
shadekslittleC�gmail.com
919-967-7371
Primary County Staff Contacts:
Autumn Cox, Long Term Care Ombudsman, Triangle J Council of Governments
Kim Lamon-Loperfido, Aging Transitions Administrator, Department on Aging
How many times per month does this board/commission meet, including any
special meetings and sub-committee meetings?
The committee meets in full, four times a year to conduct regular business. Sub-groups
conduct quarterly visits to assisted living facilities and make annual visits to family care
homes (defined as less than six residents). Information from visits is shared regularly
between committee members and the Ombudsman via phone or email.
Brief Statement of Board/Commission's Assigned Charge and Responsibilities.
Committee Members are volunteer advocates certified by the State Long Term Care
Ombudsman and appointed by the County Commissioners to help maintain the intent of
the Adult Care Home Resident's Bill of Rights within long term care (LTC) facilities in
Orange County. To assist with this charge, we make official, unannounced quarterly
visits to all assisted living facilities and unannounced annual visits to all family care
homes in the county. As advocates for the residents, we observe the general conditions
of each facility. We also work to establish a rapport with residents and staff and listen to
their concerns and recommendations. Findings from our visits are summarized and
submitted as official reports as required by the NC Division of Aging and Adult Services.
In addition we advise the County Department of Aging and the Triangle J
Ombudsperson about programs or ideas to improve care in our facilities. We also
encourage increased community volunteerism and community awareness of the needs
of residents in the long term care facilities in Orange County.
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What are your Board/Commission's most important accomplishments?
The most important was keeping the committee intact. We currently have five members
in total. This past year the committee of volunteers NO visits to area long term care
facilities were done.
List of Specific Tasks, Events, or Functions Performed or Sponsored Annually.
(Noted above).
Describe this board/commission's activities/accomplishments in carrying out
BOCC goal(s)/priorities, if applicable.
Our Committee's activities and accomplishments continue to align closely with the Goal
1 of the BOCC's FY2016-17 work plan: "to ensure a community network of basic human
services and infrastructure that maintains, protects and promotes the well-being of all
county residents, and particularly the gaps in quality and quantity of long-term senior
care (and especially low-income seniors)."
Describe the collaboration relationship(s) this particular board has with other
advisory boards and commissions?
We work closely with the Nursing Home Community Advisory Committee in initiatives
and activities, and with the Department on Aging. The Aging Transitions Administrator
regularly attends our bi-monthly full committee meetings, providing us with relevant
information and updates from that department.
If your board/commission played the role of an Element Lead Advisory Board
involved in the 2030 Comprehensive Plan preparation process, please indicate
your board's activities/accomplishments as they may relate to the
Comprehensive Plan's goals or objectives.
(The Element Lead Advisory Boards include: Planning Board, EDC, OUTBoard,
Commission for the Environment, Historic Preservation Commission, Agriculture
Preservation Board, Affordable Housing Board, Recreation and Parks Advisory Council)
Not Applicable.
Identify any activities this board/commission expects to carry out in 2022 as they
relate to established BOCC goals and priorities.
If applicable, is there a fiscal impact (i.e., funding, staff time, other resources)
associated with these proposed activities (please list).
Because of the 2020-2021 pandemic, we may even find it difficult to move forth with our
standard goals:
1/ Continue quarterly visits to all assisted living facilities and annual visits to all family
care homes in Orange County.
2/ Conduct collaborative meetings with facility administrators or corporate managers to
inform them of our visit findings, particularly those that impinge on or fail to fulfill the
rights of their residents.
3/ Encourage members of the County Board of Commissioners to join us on visits to the
county's LTC facilities, to glean firsthand knowledge of their conditions.
4/ Collaborate with the Department of Aging's Volunteer Connect 55+ program to
increase community volunteer linkages with the county's ACHs and FCHs.
5/ Identify and train new volunteers as needed to fulfill the goals of the committee.
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What are the concerns or emerging issues your board has identified for the
upcoming year that it plans to address, or wishes to bring to the Commissioners'
attention?
THESE ARE ISSUES WE HAVE HAD EVERY YEAR, and for 2022 they will be even
more critical:
1/ We will continue our efforts at raising the regulatory expectations for our long-term
care facilities. For example, there are still no handicap accessible door requirements nor
resident to staff ratios.
2/ We remain concerned about the neglected conditions of many of our Orange County
LTC buildings. We routinely find no emergency power generators, resulting in such
dangerous behavior as residents having to be carried down from upper floors when the
power is out and elevators not working. There also continue to be reports of foul odors
of urine, mold and strong cleaning products in halls and rooms of residents, and
complaints about food, with some residents reporting food shortages if they are last to
be fed (with sandwiches substituted for dinner).
3/ We hope to find that the Department on Aging's Master Plan will include projects
related to our long-term care facilities.
33
NAME OF BOARD/COMMISSION Orange County Nursing Home Community
Advisory Committee
Report Period January 2021-December 2021
ORANGE COUNTY ADVISORY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
ANNUAL REPORT/ WORK PLAN FOR THE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
The Board of Commissioners appreciates the dedication of all the volunteers on their
boards and commissions and welcomes input from various advisory boards and
commissions throughout the year. Please complete the following information, limited to
the front and back of this form. Other background materials may be provided as a
supplement to, but not as a substitute for, this form.
Board/Commission Name: Orange County Nursing Home Community Advisory
Committee
Person to address the BOCC and contact information: Vibeke Talley, Chair. E-mail:
vibandj oc LAotmai 1.com
Primary County Staff Contact: Autumn Cox, Long-Term Care Ombudsman, Triangle
J Council of Governments. Kim Lamon-Loperfido, Aging Transitions
Administrator, Orange County Department on Aging.
How many times per month does this board/commission meet, including any special
meetings and sub-committee meetings? Business meetings are scheduled for four
times per year. Four visits per year from sub-committee members to each of the
five nursing homes in Orange County. However, due to the pandemic the
committee has not met in 2021 and no visits were made to facilities. While the
committee is still not permitted to do visits by the State Ombudsmen's Office at
DHHS, the committee plans to begin meeting quarterly in 2022. Autumn Cox
(Regional Ombudsman) has been permitted to enter the Long-Term Care facilities
since the pandemic. She is visiting the facilities at a minimum of quarterly. These
visits are unannounced and could be a routine advocacy visit or a complaint visit
at the request of a resident or their family. She has kept the committee up to date
as much as possible on the things she is seeing in the facilities, staffing changes,
and DHSR State Survey results, as they are available. Some facilities have also
requested Resident's Rights in-services for staff during this year.
Brief Statement of Board/Commission's Assigned Charge and Responsibilities.
• Stay informed about living conditions and quality of life for residents living in
nursing homes.
• Raise awareness about residents' rights issues and with the Ombudsman
assist persons with grievance resolution.
• Make official unannounced quarterly visits to each nursing home.
• Prepare and submit official reports on visits to nursing homes. Approved
reports are posted on the county website.
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• Work with the County Department on Aging and the Triangle J Ombudsman
regarding programs to improve living conditions and quality of life for
residents of nursing homes.
• Serve as a nucleus to activate the community to support and improve quality
of life for older adults living in nursing homes. Facilitate engagement of
community volunteers for this purpose.
• Promote activities in nursing homes that support resident well-being and
reduce social isolation.
What are your Board/Commission's most important accomplishments?
Due to Covid-19 restrictions the members of this board were not able to access
nursing homes in Orange County in all of 2021.
List of Specific Tasks, Events, or Functions Performed or Sponsored Annually.
Due to Covid-19 restrictions the members of this board were not able to
participate in Tasks, Events, or Functions as we normally would have. We would
normally have collaborated with the Orange County Department On Aging
regarding carrying out objectives from the Master Aging Plan.
Describe this board/commission's activities/accomplishments in carrying out BOCC
goal(s)/priorities, if applicable. Due to Covid-19 restrictions the members of this
board were not able to carry out BOCC goals/priorities
Describe the collaboration relationship(s) this particular board has with other advisory
boards and commissions? This committee works closely with the Orange County
Advisory Board on Aging and the Orange County Adult Care Home Advisory
Committee.
Identify any activities this board/commission expects to carry out in 2022 as they relate
to established BOCC goals and priorities. If applicable, is there a fiscal impact (i.e.,
funding, staff time, other resources) associated with these proposed activities (please
list).
This Board is hoping that it can resume facility visits and planned business
meetings in 2022. The committee plans to continue working on Master Aging Plan
goals and priorities. The committee will focus on quality of life for residents and
will encourage community members to be involved in activities in nursing homes
to improve quality of life.
These functions and activities have no fiscal impact.
What are the concerns or emerging issues your board has identified for the upcoming
year that it plans to address, or wishes to bring to the Commissioners' attention?
The last two years showed us how vulnerable the residents of Long Term Care
Facilities are to an infection that is spreading through the community. We also
saw that residents became very isolated due to the pandemic which may have
mental health consequences. As a community it is important that we address
these issues.
35
NAME OF BOARD/COMMISSION Board of Health
Report Period January 2021-December 2021
ORANGE COUNTY ADVISORY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
ANNUAL REPORT/ WORK PLAN FOR THE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
The Board of Commissioners appreciates the dedication of all the volunteers on their
boards and commissions and welcomes input from various advisory boards and
commissions throughout the year. Please complete the following information, limited to
the front and back of this form. Other background materials may be provided as a
supplement to, but not as a substitute for, this form.
Board/Commission Name: Board of Health
Person to address the BOCC and contact information:
Quintana Stewart, Health Director— ext. 2412
Primary County Staff Contact:
Quintana Stewart, Health Director
How many times per month does this board/commission meet, including any special
meetings and sub-committee meetings?
Board meets once monthly except for July and December.
Subcommittees normally meet at a minimum quarterly, however due to the 2021
COVID response efforts these meeting were temporarily suspended.
Brief Statement of Board/Commission's Assigned Charge and Responsibilities.
The Board of Health is the primary policy-making and adjudicatory body (NCGS
130A-39(a) (powers and duties of the boards of health) and NCGS 130A-24
(appeals), for the health department and is charged to protect and promote the
public health of Orange County.
36
What are your Board/Commission's most important accomplishments?
➢ COVID Response: OCHD continues to engage community partners in
addressing Access to Care, Health Behaviors, and Health Equity.
o Facilitated the Joint Information Command (JIC) team that met weekly to
plan, implement, and distribute equitable information to educate the
community on COVID-19 and COVID-19 Vaccines.
o Facilitated the Communicators Group — a collaborative of communication
personnel across county department, municipality departments, and
various other organizations to ensure COVID-19 messaging is succinct,
equitable, and aligned.
o OCHD's Environmental Health Division worked tirelessly to keep area
businesses and restaurants informed of COVID-19 mandates and to
ensure they had the resources needed to make informed operational
decisions.
o Maintained the State's highest vaccination rate for several months during
the pandemic.
List of Specific Tasks, Events, or Functions Performed or Sponsored Annually.
Community Health Assessment — Conducted every 4 years and submitted
to NC DHHS in March 2020
➢ Financial Reports and Billing Dashboards — Quarterly Review
➢ Budget — Annual Review
Outside Agency Funding Request — Annual Review
➢ Cardinal Innovations Annual Report — Annual Review
➢ Advisory Board Summary Report — Biannual Review
➢ OCHD Racial Equity Commission (REC) — Annual Update
➢ Policy Review — Annual Review
➢ Communicable Disease Report — Annual Review
➢ Child Fatality Report — Annual Review
➢ Tobacco Prevention Program — Annual Update
➢ Health Director Annual Review; informal review in 2021 as the County
transitions to Focal Reviews
➢ BOH Reappointments — Chair and Vice Chair— Annual Review
➢ Healthy Carolinians of Orange County— Annual Update
➢ BOH Meeting Schedule — Annual Review
➢ Delinquent Accounts — Annual Review; on hold for 2021 due to pandemic
moratoriums
➢ Immigrant and Refugee — Annual Update
37
Describe this board/commission's activities/accomplishments in carrying out BOCC
goal(s)/priorities, if applicable.
Ensure a community network of basic human services and infrastructure that maintains,
protects, and promotes the well-being of all county residents
BOH is the primary policy-making and adjudicatory body for the Health
Department and is also charged with protecting and promoting the public
health of Orange County residents.
The Environmental Health Division sunset the WTMP Program to avoid
duplicate fees for residents with regard to having their septic systems
inspected.
Promote an interactive and engaging system of governance that reflects community
values
➢ The Board of Health facilitated multiple listening sessions to gather
community input about health needs and priorities for the County during
the Community Health Assessment Process.
Invest in quality County facilities, a diverse work force, and technology to achieve a high
performing County government
OCHD has begun dental services on the Mobile Dental Unit two days a
weeks at Southern Human Services in Chapel Hill.
OCHD has begun renovations of the clinical waiting room at the Whitted
Human Services Building to be inviting to the community.
Create, preserve, and protect a natural environment that includes clean water, clean air,
wildlife, important natural lands, and sustainable energy for present and future
generations
The Environmental Health Division hosted a student intern from UNCG that
studied the current challenges to onsite wastewater systems and private
drinking water wells in the Gaines Chapel community of Efland, NC.
➢ 18 of the 51 dwellings participated in the study which revealed that thirteen
were interested in municipal sewer service. However half of those
interested stated that the cost of services are a hindrance for
replacing/upgrading/maintaining their septic tanks.
➢ This interaction with the community afforded Environmental Health to do
some additional education around maintenance of septic tanks.
Ensure a high quality of life and lifelong learning that champions diversity, education at
all levels, libraries, parks, recreation, and animal welfare
The BOH arranges educational sessions every month during meetings to
learn more about the community at-large, OCHD programs and services,
and other opportunities to learn about programs across the state.
38
Describe the collaboration relationship(s) this particular board has with other advisory
boards and commissions?
The Board receives summaries on the activities of the following local
boards or governing bodies at meetings twice a year, or as necessary for
timely board action.
o BOCC
o Cardinal Innovations Healthcare
o Carrboro Board of Alderman
o Chapel Hill Town Council
o Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools Board of Education
o DEAPR
o Family Success Alliance
o Healthy Carolinians of Orange County
o Hillsborough Board of Commissioners
o Jail/Mental Health Subcommittee
o Justice Advisory Council
o Orange County Partnership for Young Children
o Orange County Schools Board of Education
o Orange Resilience Initiative
o OUTBoard
➢ Other Board that BOH members sit on:
o Orange County Animal Services Advisory Board
Identify any activities this board/commission expects to carry out in 2022 as they relate
to established BOCC goals and priorities. If applicable, is there a fiscal impact (i.e.,
funding, staff time, other resources) associated with these proposed activities (please
list).
➢ Completion of the Annual State of the County Health (SOTCH) Report
➢ Completion of the BOH Strategic Plan
➢ Completion of the OCHD Departmental Strategic Plan
➢ Prepared for Reaccreditation with NC DHHS; site visit tentatively scheduled
for early 2023
What are the concerns or emerging issues your board has identified for the upcoming
year that it plans to address, or wishes to bring to the Commissioners' attention?
➢ The impact that finances, mental health, and students' education will have
on the health of county residents as long-term recovery related to COVID-
19 begins/continues.
39
NAME OF BOARD/COMMISSION Board of Social Services
Report Period 2021-2022
ORANGE COUNTY ADVISORY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
ANNUAL REPORT/ WORK PLAN FOR THE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
The Board of Commissioners appreciates the dedication of all the volunteers on
their boards and commissions and welcomes input from various advisory boards
and commissions throughout the year. Please complete the following
information, limited to the front and back of this form. Other background
materials may be provided as a supplement to, but not as a substitute for, this
form.
Board/Commission Name: Board of Social Services
Person to address the BOCC at work session- if applicable- and contact
information: Pat Garavaglia, Chair, (919) 942-2120
Primary County Staff Contact: Lindsey Shewmaker, Human Services Manager
How many times per month does this board/commission meet, including any
special meetings and sub-committee meetings? Once per month
Brief Statement of Board/Commission's Assigned Charge and Responsibilities.
The Social Services Board:
• hires the county social services director;
• determines the director's salary (subject to approval of the board of county
commissioners);
• advises and consults with the director;
• evaluates the director's job performance;
• dismisses the director if his or her job performance is unsatisfactory or if
his or her personal conduct is unacceptable;
• appoints the fifth member of the social services board;
• assists the county social services director in planning the department's
proposed budget;
• establishes county policies for public assistance and social services
programs (consistent with applicable federal and state laws, regulations,
and policies);
• advises county and municipal authorities on the development of policies
and plans designed to improve social conditions in the community; and
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• carries out other duties and responsibilities as assigned by the General
Assembly, the state Social Services Commission, the state Department of
Health and Human Services, and the board of county commissioners.
What are your Board/Commission's most important accomplishments?
• 2020-21 budget approval
• Policy formation and approval
• Continued oversight for programs of human services
List of Specific Tasks, Events, or Functions Performed or Sponsored Annually.
• Budget approval
• Policy review and development
Describe this board/commission's activities/accomplishments in carrying out
BOCC goals)/priorities, if applicable.
• Budget approval
• Policy formation and approval for programs supporting BOCC Goal 1
• Oversight for programs of human services
Describe the collaboration relationship(s) this particular board has with other
advisory boards and commissions?
The Board does not currently meet with other advisory Boards although staff
collaborate with other human services departments.
If your board/commission played the role of an Element Lead Advisory Board
involved in the 2030 Comprehensive Plan preparation process, please indicate
your board's activities/accomplishments as they may relate to the
Comprehensive Plan's goals or objectives.
(The Element Lead Advisory Boards include: Planning Board, EDC, OUTBoard,
Commission for the Environment, Historic Preservation Commission, Agriculture
Preservation Board, Affordable Housing Board, Recreation and Parks Advisory
Council)
NA
Identify any activities this board/commission expects to carry out in 2021 as they
relate to established BOCC goals and priorities.
If applicable, is there a fiscal impact (i.e., funding, staff time, other resources)
associated with these proposed activities (please list).
The Board of Social Services will continue to oversee operations of the
Department of Social Services as staff carry out programs of human services.
41
(Goal 1, Priority 4) The majority of the budget for Social Services relates to this
goal.
What are the concerns or emerging issues your board has identified for the
upcoming year that it plans to address, or wishes to bring to the Commissioners'
attention?
1. Ongoing Child Welfare reform efforts
There are State-level initiatives to change the child welfare system that
continue to impact DSS staff.
2. Continuing impact of COVID on families and programs
COVID has seen an increase in the number of people receiving Food and
Nutrition Services and Medicaid. The workload is becoming difficult to
manage in some program areas. There are impacts to safety programs
like child welfare as well due to children being out of school for long
periods and the economic and mental health toll of the pandemic on
families.
3. Staffing recruitment and retention
DSS has had increased difficulty over the last few years recruiting and
retaining qualified staff. Impacts of COVID and resulting job market have
made this more difficult and there are currently more than 20 vacancies.
The number of candidates applying for positions has been lower than in
recent years and many are not accepting offers because they are not
competitive with their current salary.
The Board of Social Services is concerned with the numbers of Orange County
residents in need of services and potential impacts on vulnerable and
disenfranchised residents. The Board wants to be certain that the critical
programs and services provided by the Department of Social Services can
continue to operate and that residents of Orange County are able to access the
services they need.