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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 10-18-2022 Business Meeting 1 APPROVED 12/5/22 MINUTES ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BUSINESS MEETING October 18, 2022 7:00 p.m. The Orange County Board of Commissioners met for a Business Meeting on Tuesday, October 18, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. at the Whitted Human Services Center in Hillsborough, NC. COUNTY COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Chair Renee Price, Vice Chair Jamezetta Bedford, and Commissioners Amy Fowler, Sally Greene, Jean Hamilton, and Anna Richards COUNTY COMMISSIONERS ABSENT: None. COUNTY ATTORNEYS PRESENT: John Roberts COUNTY STAFF PRESENT: County Manager Bonnie Hammersley, Deputy County Manager Travis Myren, and Clerk to the Board Laura Jensen. (All other staff members will be identified appropriately below) Chair Price called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. All commissioners were present. 1. Additions or Changes to the Agenda Chair Price noted that item 8-g on the consent agenda will be removed and considered at a later date. She also requested consideration of an additional item under 6-c at the request of Community Home Trust. A motion was made by Commissioner Bedford, seconded by Commissioner Greene, to add an item on Community Home Trust as item 6-c. VOTE: UNANIMOUS Chair Price dispensed with reading the public charge. 2. Public Comments (Limited to One Hour) a. Matters not on the Printed Agenda There was no one signed up to speak on matters not on the printed agenda. b. Matters on the Printed Agenda (These matters will be considered when the Board addresses that item on the agenda below.) 3. Announcements, Petitions and Comments by Board Members Commissioner Greene said she was unable to attend a recent event celebrating the Neuse River as "River of the Year" by the American River non-profit organization, but wanted to highlight the improvements to the river over the last fifteen years. She said that October 18, 2022 is the 501" anniversary of the Clean Water Act. Commissioner Fowler said she attended recent meetings for TARPO, the Policy Steering Committee, and the ABC Board. She said that the NC Transportation Planning Department will receive $1.9 million for EV charging stations to be distributed throughout the state. She said there was also a request for proposals from CMAC for about $200,000 with a 20% match for which Orange County could be eligible. She said at the Policy Steering Committee they learned that there are federal funds to help move forward with the North/South Bus Rapid Transit line on 2 Highway 15-501, but it requires a $15 million match. She said they will pursue state funds to use as the match. She said at the ABC meeting she learned that the Southern Village store is open and they will have a ribbon cutting on October 27, 2022. She also said that an ABC Board member resigned, so an appointment to fill the vacancy will be considered soon. She said there was a fundraiser for the Mountains to Sea Trail on October 23, 2022 from 3 - 6 p.m. Commissioner Bedford attended the Durham Chapel Hill Carrboro MPO meeting. She said that on November 1, 2022 there will be a public hearing on the Orange County Transit Plan. She said that it is also open for public comment on the MPO website. She said it had a focus on equity. She said it stays within the budget as set by revenues for the special tax and taxes on rental cars. She said she attended the DSS board meeting and that DSS will once again host a holiday program for families. She said that individuals can sponsor the purchase of toys by making cash donations online or contacting DSS. She said it will be a drive through event and that teenagers will receive gift cards. She said she attended the Orange County Partnership to End Homelessness meeting. She said that the partnership is hoping to hear back soon about $100,000 in ESG funding, and later about $900,000 in HUD funds. She said that early voting starts on October 20, 2022 and she encouraged everyone to get out and vote. Commissioner Richards said she went to the opening of the Blue Hill event center and said it may be a good location for meetings. She said she also attended the UNC Civic Engagement Fair and talked to college students about civic engagement. She said she will be part of the Inner City Visit with the Chamber for a Greater Chapel Hill-Carrboro and will not be at the meeting on October 25, 2022. Commissioner McKee had nothing to report. Commissioner Hamilton said October 2022 was the 75th anniversary of the founding of the NAACP branch in Chapel Hill and Carrboro. She said on October 19, 2022, there will be a meeting of School Capital Needs Work Group, during which they will discuss the request for qualifications from interested consultants. She said there will be a Board of Health meeting in the following week. Chair Price said she and Commissioner Bedford met with the mayors of Hillsborough, Chapel Hill, and Carrboro together with housing staff to discuss a collaborative approach for issues such as housing, health, and homelessness. She said there are local organizations who ask for funds from all jurisdictions, and the group would like to find a way to address these needs jointly. She said the next meeting will be held sometime next month. She said she attended the loth + 1 anniversary of the Piedmont Food Processing Center. She said it has served Orange County for many years as a business incubator and accelerator. 4. Proclamations/ Resolutions/ Special Presentations a. Recognition of County Employee Retirements from April 1, 2022 through September 30, 2022 The Board recognized and expressed gratitude to retirees for their devotion and service to Orange County and its residents. BACKGROUND: The following employees have retired from April 1, 2022 through September 30, 2022: 3 Retirement Years of Recipient Department Date Service Terry Colville Department on Aging 4/28/2022 28 Donna Hall Social Services 4/28/2022 34 Donna King Health 4/28/2022 21 Donna Lloyd Human Resources 4/28/2022 7 James Summey Emergency Services 4/28/2022 25 Philip Vilaro Health 4/28/2022 20 David Walker Sheriffs Office 4/28/2022 7 Darrel Lambe Solid Waste Management 4/28/2022 19 Maria McPherson Emergency Services 5/31/2022 30 Asset Management Thomas Howard Services 6/30/2022 28 Asset Management Derrick Jones Services 6/30/2022 20 Housing & Community Felicia Mack Development 6/30/2022 12 Tammy Sykes Health 6/30/2022 29 Kim Dunderdale Library 7/31/2022 14 Allen Cole Sheriff's Office 7/31/2022 24 Randy Haynes Social Services 8/31/2022 19 Cathy York Health 8/31/2022 32 Richard Clayton Sheriff's Office 9/30/2022 3 The Orange County Board of Commissioners thanks each of these retirees for their service to Orange County and for their dedication in meeting the primary mission of Orange County, in serving residents with fairness, respect and understanding. Brenda Bartholomew, Human Resources Director, read the names of all employees who retired between April 1 and September 30, 2022. Donna King and James Summey were present and received service awards from Brenda Bartholomew and had their picture taken with the Commissioners. Chair Price thanked all the retirees for their service to Orange County. Commissioner Fowler echoed Chair Price's comments and mentioned that, as a pediatrician, she would miss speaking with Cathy York in the Health department. b. Proclamation Designating October 2022 as Arts and Humanities Month The Board approved a proclamation designating October 2022 as Arts and Humanities Month in Orange County. 4 BACKGROUND: Each year, the month of October is recognized as National Arts and Humanities Month. This recognition acknowledges the impact of the arts and humanities on civic and human health, as well as the economic impact made by the arts industry on a national and local scale. The attached proclamation recognizes October 2022 as Arts and Humanities Month in Orange County. Chair Price read the following proclamation: ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS PROCLAMATION ARTS AND HUMANITIES MONTH — OCTOBER 2022 WHEREAS, the nation's 120,000 nonprofit arts organizations, the National Endowment for the Arts, the National Endowment for the Humanities, the nation's 4,500 local arts agencies in communities across the country, and the arts and humanities councils of the 50 states and the six jurisdictions and districts of the United States annually have issued official proclamations designating October as National Arts and Humanities Month; and WHEREAS, cities and states—through their local and state arts agencies representing thousands of cultural organizations — have celebrated the value and importance of culture in the lives of Americans and the health of thriving communities during National Arts and Humanities Month for nearly 30 years; and WHEREAS, the humanities help diverse communities across the United States explore their history and culture with the support and partnership of the National Endowment for the Humanities, the 50 state and six jurisdiction and district humanities councils, and local educational and cultural institutions; and WHEREAS, the arts and humanities embody so much of the accumulated wisdom, intellect, and imagination of humankind, and also enhance and enrich the lives of everyone in America; and WHEREAS, despite significant losses due to the coronavirus pandemic, the creative industries remain among the most vital sectors of the American economy, providing new opportunities for developing cities, creating jobs and economic activity within their own industry and across sectors, and making communities attractive to business development; and WHEREAS, the nation's arts and culture sector— including nonprofit, commercial and education — is an $877 billion industry that supports 4.6 million jobs representing 4.2% of the nation's economy, a larger share of the GDP than powerhouse sectors such as agriculture, transportation, and utilities (2020); and WHEREAS, the nation's arts and culture sector additionally boasts a$33 billion international trade surplus (2019); and WHEREAS, the nonprofit arts industry of Orange County has generated $12.4 million in local and state government revenue and $130.3 million in economic activity (2015) annually by organizations and audiences — including $36.6 million of spending beyond the cost of admission on items such as meals, parking, and lodging by arts event attendees — making the arts a vital income source for local businesses; 5 NOW, THEREFORE, the Board of County Commissioners of Orange County, North Carolina does hereby proclaim October 2022 as Arts and Humanities Month in Orange County and calls upon community members to celebrate and promote the arts and humanities throughout the region, state and nation, and to participate in sustaining the vibrancy of the arts and humanities for the betterment of society. This the 18' day of October, 2022. Renee Price, Chair Orange County Board of Commissioners A motion was made by Commissioner Bedford, seconded by Commissioner Hamilton, to approve and authorize the Chair to sign the proclamation recognizing October 2022 as Arts and Humanities Month in Orange County. VOTE: UNANIMOUS Katie Murray,Arts Commission Director, thanked the Commissioners for the proclamation. c. Orange County Arts Commission One Year Update on Eno Arts Mill The Board received an update on the Eno Arts Mill project on its one-year anniversary. BACKGROUND: The Orange County Arts Commission (OCAC) opened eleven (11) artist studios occupying 3,000 square feet at the Eno River Mill in March 2020. In May 2021, the OCAC was granted permission to lease an additional 7,000 square feet of space adjacent to the existing studios. The combined spaces, referred to as the "Eno Arts Mill," occupy 10,000 square feet of space, including a gallery, classroom, seventeen (17) artist studios, a conference room, and the OCAC offices. The grand opening of the Eno Arts Mill was October 1, 2021. Three hundred residents attended and enjoyed an "Artist Preview" exhibit of all studio artists as well as open artist studios, live music, food trucks and more. In the last year, the Eno Arts Mill has already become staple of the Hillsborough community and Triangle arts community. Through the payment of artists and by drawing visitors to Hillsborough, the space has made a significant contribution to the local economy, as demonstrated in the chart below. It has also provided a welcoming and safe place for all types of people to experience the arts. Several highlights of the first year of programming include: • April 2022: Home? An Artistic Exploration of Affordable Housing in the Trian_ple. This Triangle-wide exhibit was a partnership with the Housing Department and featured 100 works of art by 54 artists, as well as 16 poets who read their selected works during the exhibit opening. In addition to works focusing on the unaffordable housing market, many works focused on the COVID-19 pandemic. This powerful show received Triangle- wide press and introduced many new artists and patrons to the Eno Arts Mill. • July 2022: Building Bridges: An Exhibit of Latin-American Artists in the Triangle. This Triangle-wide exhibit featured nineteen Latin-American artists. The opening event featured Grammy-nominated musician Joe Troop with Larry Bellorin as well as Takiri Mexican dancers. • Diversity and accessibility: The OCAC believes the studio artists, staff, and leadership need to reflect the community in order to be a welcoming space for all people. Growing a diverse group of artist-tenants has been a priority of OCAC, with diversity not only being 6 defined by demographics, but also career level and medium. This intentionality has resulted in 44% of artist tenants identifying as a member of a marginalized community. 38% of tenants are people of color. The Eno Arts Mill is one of the only accessible art studios in the Triangle, and in the last year, three studio artists have been wheelchair users. • New partnerships: The Eno Arts Mill has allowed the OCAC to forge new relationships with organizations in the community. The Art Therapy Institute (ATI) established a Hillsborough office in the Eno Arts Mill and has offered programs including free kids' activities during our First Fridays openings, and camps and classes taught by ATI staff, including a LGBTQ Teen Arts Collective. The Mill has provided the Orange County Artists Guild a home for two annual shows in December and May. In addition, the OCAC has collaborated with the Housing Department on two exhibits and hosted a departmental meeting in the gallery. ENO ARTS MILL FIRST YEAR IMPACT: October, 2021 through September, 2022 Number of artists paid for work sold, classes, performances, or services 125 Amount paid to artists for work sold, classes, performance, or services $48,179 Number of artists exhibited 212 Dollar amount of work sold (Oct-Dec, March-September) $18,980 Number of people hosted during First Friday openings 2,400 Number of people hosted for classes 232 Number of youth hosted during Summer Camp 2022 77 Number of youth scholarship recipients during Summer Camp 2022 12 (16%) Katie Murray, Arts Commission Director, introduced the item and gave the following presentation: Slide #1 1 Slide #2 ARTS '��,�D�sf MULTIPURPOSE Slide #3 CC�MMUNITYARTS SPACE 17 Artist Studios CAC offices + meeting roam Gallery Classroom - ARTS GLAND OPENING OCT06ER 1, Z0�1 � .S 1 Slide example Katie Murray said they have received good press coverage and positive feedback about the space. ARTS M 1 LL 'r� - - E ARTS MILL APRI L, 2fl22 NdME?AnArristirExplorarion *� '} Slide #5 INDYI of Nausingin[he Triangle reviewedKatie Murray the different . held at Eno Arts Mill over the previous Slide #6 ARTS ±�urfdirrgBridges.An Exhihitof ±.rrr�rrAmerfrar�Artists irr the Triartgie Slide r � I c � �� {'+. 9 Katie Murray said she is very proud of the accessibility and diversity at the mill. She said 44% of tenant artists identify as members of a marginalized community, and it is one of the only truly accessible arts studios in the Triangle region. Slide #8 • Katie Murray said they have partnered with Arts Therapy Institute to create a teen arts collective. She said they partnered with various organizations to highlight community initiatives. Slide #9 LIL'L, YEAR 1 IMPACT BY THE NUMBERS $489179 212 $18,980 125 PAID TO ARTISTS ARTWORK ARTISTS ARTISTS SALES PAID 21400 232 77 160/0 FIRST CLASS SUMMER UMMER CAMP •■ STUDENTS SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS Slide #10 E N AR TS MILL 0 i f � + •O ■. 1 Slide #11 Katie Murray ARTS M 1 LL First Year Challenges • 6 of 1�months[July-September,Jan-Mareh)not available for programming • AfFardabiliry vs.5ustainabiliry • Learning�urv2 • Capa�iry of staff • she is hopeful • • Slide #12 Slide #13 fere Chair Price ARTS MILL �-� our future goals... � -'� � Community Ceramics Studio � Cammuniry Qark Room �Accessible Children's Theater Y' SHARE @OChI[arts O � E3 CE�ME SEE US' praised Katie Murray's work in the first year of • Arts Mill. She said she 11 everything Orange County does. She said the proclamation and the presentation will be sent to Jay Dick at Americans for the Arts. Commissioner Greene asked about the figure of$130 million in the previous proclamation. She noted that the figure was seven years old. Katie Murray said that the survey typically takes place every 5 years, but it was delayed due to the pandemic. She said she will have updated figures next year. She said she feels the number is still relevant. Commissioner Richards said she was impressed by the commitment to fill gaps in the arts in the community, as well as the intentional efforts to expand opportunities to participate in the arts where people are or where they find themselves. Chair Price said she appreciated the idea of having a big tip jar to raise money to support artists during the pandemic. She also appreciated Katie Murray's efforts to participate in WRAL's Big Night In for the Arts event in conjunction with three other counties. Katie Murray said the Big Night In for the Arts will be held again on March 11, 2023. d. Orange County Arts Commission 2022-23 Annual Grant Recipients The Board acknowledged local artists and arts organizations receiving 2022-23 Orange County Arts Grants. BACKGROUND: Orange County Annual Grants Cycle The Orange County Arts Commission (OCAC)administers two primary grant programs each year. The Grassroots Arts Program utilizes state funding to provide support for nonprofit organizations and schools conducting arts programming. The Artist Project Grant utilizes county funding for artist-led community projects. A total of $45,000, typically dispersed to arts agencies through the Outside Agencies Program, was allocated to the OCAC's annual Grassroots Arts Program. The purpose of this was to ensure arts agencies were applying for funding through a program specific to the arts, following the best practices established by the North Carolina Arts Council. Statistics regarding this year's grant cycle are noted in the chart below. TOTAL INC Arts Council Funding $51,007.00 Orange County Funding' $73,800.00 TOTAL AVAILABLE FUNDING $124,807.00 Total dollar amount requests $154,525 Total grants awarded 36, or 82% of applications Total applications received 44 Total first-time applicants 13, or 30% of applicants The OCAC grant review and awards process: 1. The grant application process is open for two months. Two virtual training sessions took place and the OCAC director was available for one-on-one meetings. 2. After the due date, the OCAC director conducted an initial compliance and eligibility review. Applications found noncompliant or outside of the grant requirements are considered disqualified. 12 3. Qualified applications are forwarded to members of each review panel for initial review and scoring. This year's grant panels included the following: a. Visual Arts: Composed of OCAC Board Members with visual arts expertise, as well as two visual arts professionals from the community. b. Performing Arts: Composed of OCAC Board Members with performing arts expertise, as well as one performing arts professional from the community. c. Literary Arts: Composed of OCAC Board Members with literary arts expertise. 4. Non-governmental Grassroots Arts Program (GAP) applicants were also evaluated by a Financial Review Panel who examined submitted financial documents to determine financial solvency and stability. Factors considered include the ratio of administrative or fundraising expense in overall budget, as well as a deficit or surplus without explanation and/or stated plan. 5. Each panel met virtually to evaluate assigned applications. Feedback, first strengths and then challenges, was offered by panelists, and recorded by OCAC staff. After discussion, each panelist submitted a score through the online platform for each of the categories below. After all scores are submitted, the director records the final average score per applicant. 6. The scoring rubric for this year's grant program was as follows: GRASSROOTS ARTS PROGRAM GRANTS Artistic Merit— 35% Community Impact— 30% Program Management— 15% Financial Review— 10% NC Arts Council Priority of Funding — 10% ARTIST PROJECT GRANTS Artistic Merit—40% Community Impact—40% Program Management—20% 7. Funding decisions were made at the August 2022 Arts Commission meeting. For the GAP program, the Commission prioritized organizational requests, high scoring program requests, and schools. For APG,the Commission approved funding applicants with scores above 70 at their full request amount. 8. All applicants were notified of the panel's decisions. All declined GAP applicants received panel feedback; approved GAP and APG applicants could receive feedback upon request. Katie Murray, Arts Commission Director, reviewed the information included in the agenda abstract. Katie Murray read a list of all the grant recipients and the Commissioners took a photo with those that were in attendance. 5. Public Hearings None. 6. Regular Agenda a. Schools Safety Task Force — Proposed Charge and Composition The Board discussed the charge and composition for a Schools Safety Task Force and established a timeline for completion of the Task Force's work/report/recommendations to the Board of Commissioners. BACKGROUND: The Board of Commissioners previously requested information on how the County may regulate protests or large gatherings in Orange County. (However, it should be noted 13 that the Board's most recent interest and discussion has focused on school safety as referenced below.) The Board initially received information on this subject at its February 1, 2022 Business meeting. At that meeting the Board discussed many aspects of this type of regulation including prohibiting large gatherings on certain public-school properties. The Board further discussed this topic at its May 10, 2022 work session. At that work session, the Board determined parades would not be regulated and provided further direction to the County Attorney for revisions to be brought back to the Board for future consideration. At the June 2, 2022 work session, the Board determined to move forward with an ordinance prohibiting picketing on School Property. At the June 21, 2022 Business meeting, the Board determined the ordinance would be brought back at its meeting in October. At its October 3, 2022 Business meeting, the Board deferred consideration of an ordinance and determined it would form a Task Force to consider school safety. The agenda materials for each prior discussion may be viewed at the links above. In follow-up, the Board must determine the composition and charge of the proposed Task Force and a timeline within which the Task Force should complete its work. Discussion at the October 3, 2022 Business meeting suggested including the Sheriff or designee, the public (parents/guardians and other residents), both school systems, and the three towns as Task Force members. A draft Task Force composition is attached. Assuming the Board establishes an application process for public participation, a determination of the general composition and number of members of the Task Force will allow the Clerk's Office to begin soliciting membership applications and should allow for a pool of applicants for the Board to review and make formal appointments, potentially in December 2022. Based on the proposed appointments timeline, the Task Force's first meeting would likely occur in January 2023. The Board should also consider and provide direction to staff on potentially securing a facilitator to guide the Task Force's efforts. John Roberts, County Attorney, introduced the item. Commissioner Hamilton said this was an opportunity for the Board to look at the issues that led to the consideration of the ordinance as well as other aspects of school safety that could be addressed. She said that she sees this committee as important for that look at making sure students are safe and making sure feedback from the community is included. She said she hopes they can craft something that everyone can get behind. She said this is an important issue and the committee should move ahead with the work. Commissioner McKee asked for clarification on the committee positions that would be available for members of the public. Commissioner Richards said that the proposed composition was a good balance of designated positions as well as positions that members of the public could apply for. She asked about the court system position and what others think about adding it. Commissioner Greene said she did not feel that a position from the court system needed to be added because this is about school safety. Commissioner Bedford asked about including a member of high school student government from each school district. Commissioner Greene supported that suggestion. Commissioner Hamilton supported the suggestion as well, and asked if someone from Human Rights and Relations should also be included. 14 Bonnie Hammersley said that the department is now called the Office of Equity and Inclusion and that staff could attend. She said that it would be appropriate for the similar offices in the school districts to attend. Commissioner Fowler said she agrees with student government representatives. Chair Price asked if it would be one or two from each school district. Commissioner McKee expressed concern that the task force would be heavily weighted towards the schools if four student positions were added. Commissioner Hamilton asked for clarification. Commissioner McKee said two students from each school district would be eight representatives. He said that he prefers one from each school. He said that the commissioners would appoint 6 of the positions on the task force. He felt that it would be a fairer weighting of the positions. Commissioner Fowler suggested one student and an alternate in case the student could not attend a meeting. Commissioner Hamilton said that having students could provide a diversity of views on the task force. Commissioner McKee said that this commission will only be appointing six positions because the schools will select their representatives. Commissioner Greene said she understood Commissioner McKee's concerns. Commissioner Richards said that student views are very important and that often their voices are not heard. She felt that having two students from each district were important. Commissioner Bedford suggested adding an At-Large appointment to give a broader community base. Commissioner McKee said that the shooting task force had only 8-10 members and was not weighted toward any group. He said this would have four students and four school representatives and being that this request came from the schools, it would be heavily weighted toward the schools. He said that having a lot of members gets unwieldy. He said that having a large group can create an environment where coalitions form. Chair Price said that students from both districts would represent diversity in voices. Commissioner McKee said he would not suggest making the task force smaller than what is proposed. He said he is concerned about the task force getting too large. Commissioner Hamilton asked if the Board would consider holding the conversation on the composition until a charge is created. She said the charge could inform the composition of the task force. Commissioner Bedford said that there might not be recommendations but hopefully so. Commissioner Hamilton said the task force will follow that they will make an agreement on the recommendation based on their guidelines about how decisions were made. Chair Price asked if representatives from the Office of Equity and Inclusion or Juvenile Courts were needed on the task force. The Board agreed by consensus that representation from those departments was not needed. Chair Price noted that they do not have a draft charge. She asked if rather than trying to compose it at the meeting, if two commissioners would like to draft it. Commissioner Hamilton and Commissioner McKee said they would work together to draft a charge and come back at a later meeting for the Board to vote on. Commissioner Richards asked for information about the timeline. She said she would want to see recommendations by the end of the current school year. Commissioner Bedford said she would want there to be a facilitator 15 A motion was made by Commissioner Bedford, seconded by Commissioner Fowler, for Commissioners Hamilton and Commissioner McKee to create a draft charge for review by the Board on November 15, 2022. VOTE: UNANIMOUS A motion was made by Commissioner Bedford, seconded by Commissioner McKee, to appoint a facilitator to lead the Schools Safety Task Force. VOTE: UNANIMOUS b. Consulting Services Award to Blue Strike Environmental Consulting for the Orange County Climate Action Plan and Approval of Budget Amendment#2-A The Board approved a Professional Services contract with Blue Strike Environmental Consulting for the preparation of an Orange County Climate Action Plan, and to approve Budget Amendment #2-A. BACKGROUND: As part of the County's, on-going efforts to accelerate climate change mitigation actions in Orange County, a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) was issued to identify a consultant to help lead the climate action planning process. An evaluation review committee consisting of the Director of Asset Management Services, the Director of the Environment, Agriculture, Parks and Recreation, the Deputy Financial Services Director, the Sustainability Programs Manager, and a member from the Commission for the Environment evaluated Blue Strike's proposal. The group unanimously recommend Blue Strike Environmental Consulting to develop the County's climate action plan. Blue Strike Environmental has helped develop over 100 climate action plans and has local experience including a recently completed Renewable Energy Plan for Durham County, a Climate Action Plan for Research Triangle Institute, and a Solar Energy Development Evaluation for Chapel Hill Transit. The evaluation committee contacted both local and out of state references and was very impressed with the feedback received. Blue Strike Consulting demonstrated the desired knowledge, innovation, and proven track record of working with local governments that the review committee was looking for. The Climate Action Plan will lay the foundation and identify the specific strategies that will help the County meet the climate change mitigation goals set by the Board in recent years: • Reduce greenhouse gas emissions community-wide by 26 percent by 2025 (from 2005 levels). • Transition to a 100% renewable energy-based economy by 2050. Key elements of Blue Strike Environmental Consulting's proposal include: • project coordination • an updated Greenhouse Gas inventory • a robust community/stakeholder engagement process • review and synthesis of Town climate action plans • identification of specific climate actions • methodology for implementation, evaluation and updating, and • presentation of draft and final climate action plans. 16 In addition, Blue Strike Consulting will also provide a comprehensive funding plan linked to climate action plan strategies and design a climate action plan dashboard displaying benchmarks, targets, progress, and key successes related to the plan's implementation for the County's website. The plan is recommended to be funded with Budget Amendment#2-A appropriating fund balance to be transferred to the County Capital Fund. This will create the following Capital Project Ordinance: Orange County Climate Action Plan ($115,480) - Project# 10084 Revenues for this project: Current FY 2022-23 FY 2022-23 FY 2022-23 Amendment Revised Transfer from General Fund $0 $115,480 $115,480 Total Project Funding $0 $115,480 $115,480 Appropriated for this project: Current FY 2022-23 FY 2022-23 FY 2022-23 Amendment Revised Climate Action Plan Expenditures $0 $115,480 $115,480 Total Costs $0 $115,480 $115,480 Steve Arndt, Asset Management Services Director, made the following presentation: Slide #1 ORANGE COUNTY NORTH CAROLINA Oi-ange Counter ClimateAction Plan (CAP) Purpose: To con!sid-er the approval of a professional services contract with Blue Strike -Environmental Consulting and budget amendment #2-A authorizing funding for project. 17 Slide #2 The CAP will provide the"road map"(specific strategies and funding needed)to help achieve climate resolutions passed by the Board in recent years: • 2017, -Uphold the Paris Climate Agreement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions between 26 and 28 percent by 2025 from 2005 levels -Transition to a 100%renewable energy based economy by 2050 • 201$: -Became a signatory to the Global Covenant of Mayors Climate and Energy Alliance which calls for a climate action plan to be created and implemented. ORANGE COUNTY �k7R77I CA7N?L[NA Slide #3 Climate Action Planning Steps: • Submitted CAP RFQ May 2022 • Evaluation team reviewed proposals (internal staff and CFE representative) • References checked • Unanimous decision to select Blue Strike Environmental Consulting to lead CAP process • Cost proposal and timellne received from Blue Strike Environmental • Performance service contract drafted • Board approval and authorization GRANGE COUNTY NOWn 1 CAW3LINA Steve Arndt said these steps have already occurred. Slide #4 Key Components of Climate Action Plan • Equity and social justice integrated throughout Visioning and Goals • Updated GHG Inventory • Review and synthesis of Town CAPS and existing Orange County plans, polioies and programs Stakeholder/Community Engagement (virtual, surveys, in person and community outreach) Development of strategies,methodology for implementation and evaluation • Presentation of draft Climate Aotion Plan • Detailed funding plan and climate action dashboard Final Climate Action Plan presentation and adoption ORANGE COUNTY .k7R_n I CAM)LINA 18 Slide #5 Blue Strike Consulting Services: • Woman owned business • Over 100 climate action plans for local government, universities, and businesses • Local work performed for Durham County, Research Triangle Institute and Town of Chapei Hill • Excellent references and thoroughly researched proposal ORANGECOUNT7 NU FM I i_4W]LLNA Slide #6 Timeline socC approval and authorixabon of professional service contracl with We 2tnkke Environmental and budget amendment#2 Aa the ring $4t 5.�BOfar pra�cl •Contract executed with NaveraWr 1,2022 start date • K'ck-affMlg with key staftandstekehaldersNavember2022 • 3rofecl Umehne. November 1,2022.Octuber31.2023 Commissioner Richards asked for clarification on if the county has a climate action plan. Steve Arndt confirmed the county does not have a climate action plan. Commissioner Richards asked if the one-year time frame was suggested by the consultant. Steve Arndt said that it will take that long to develop it and that staff is comfortable with that timeline. Commissioner Richards said she liked that all the different goals would be synthesized into one plan. Steve Arndt said the consultant would also incorporate the climate action plans of Chapel Hill and Carrboro. Commissioner Richards asked him how he would respond to some of the comments that the plan would be boilerplate. Bonnie Hammersley said that there will be strong community engagement in the development of the climate action plan. She said that Amy Eckberg, the Sustainability Manager, would work with the Manager's office and there is sentiment sometimes when outside experts are 19 chosen but the expertise is necessary. She said the community engagement part will take a significant amount of time. Commissioner Richards said that will be very important and said that Bonnie Hammersley's response addressed her concerns. Bonnie Hammersley said that after the commitment in 2018, there was change in leadership in positions and that is why it never took off. Steve Arndt said there is a proposed schedule of community engagement in the packet and a lot of work will occur. Commissioner Fowler said she felt there was a good middle ground with the proposed contract. She said that starting from scratch can result in a more extensive and expensive process. She said she liked that there would be a dashboard to help the community follow the county's progress. She said that this does not reinvent the wheel, but it does include the community and the county's specific goals. Commissioner Hamilton seconded the importance of the dashboard. She suggested that this also be coordinated with the capital needs task force and strategic plan to meet the goals. Commissioner McKee said that he supported the proposal. He said there was one line in the abstract that gave him pause: "Transition to a 100% renewable energy based economy by 2050." Chair Price said that was in a resolution that was previously passed by the Board. Commissioner McKee said that to get to 100% renewable energy would be impossible without the entire country going there. He said that would mean scrapping every fuel-using machine. He said that he was comfortable with working towards a renewable energy-based economy because he does not think it is possible to achieve 100% by 2050. Chair Price said that Mr. Arndt is taking notes and that he can relay that. Bonnie Hammersley said that is saying the plan will identify specific strategies that will help and is included because of what the Board adopted previously. Chair Price said that Steve Arndt was taking notes and would relay this information to the consultant. Commissioner Bedford said it would be helpful for the consultant to advise the county on what is realistic to achieve. She said it was important for county departments to participate with the consultant on the plan. Bonnie Hammersley said there was an internal oversight group for the climate action plan. Commissioner Greene said that she would like an update on the goal: "Reduce greenhouse gas emissions community-wide by 26 percent by 2025 (from 2005 levels)." Steve Arndt said he would provide an update to the Board. Commissioner Hamilton said it would be helpful to have an explanation of why and when decisions were made regarding county goals. Bonnie Hammersley said she would provide the information A motion was made by Commissioner Greene, seconded by Commissioner Fowler, to approve and authorize the Manager to sign a professional services contract with Blue Strike Environmental Consulting to develop the Orange County Climate Action Plan, and approve Budget Amendment#2-A appropriating $115,480 in fund balance to be transferred to the County Capital Fund. VOTE: UNANIMOUS 20 c. Community Home Trust Discussion This item was added at the beginning of the meeting Chair Price said that Kimberley Sanchez of Community Home Trust requested the creation of a committee of elected officials from the county and towns to advise the organization. She said there would be no more than two individuals from each jurisdiction. She said the first meeting is the upcoming Friday. Commissioner Bedford asked if it was possible to send a staff member to the meeting rather than elected officials. Commissioner Greene said she thought it was important to have elected officials on the committee. Chair Price asked if there is anyone else from the county on the board. Commissioner Greene said no. Commissioner Richards said that previously, they were informed that they could not influence decisions. She said she does not understand what this committee would provide. Commissioner Greene said that they saw this committee as a liaison between Community Home Trust and the elected leaders. Chair Price said that Community Home Trust wants to keep the connection with elected officials. Commissioner McKee said he previously sat on the Community Home Trust board. He said he would not support the proposal, because the elected officials would not have a voice. He said that he has an issue with an organization that the county funds does not follow the rules that the county has to follow. He said he does not support sending any representative to a board where they have any position other than a voting position. Commissioner Bedford said the county funds a lot of non-profits at a significant amount. She said she was not in favor, unless she could be persuaded that it is important enough that it needs a commissioner on the board. Chair Price said they cannot be on the Board due to state law. Commissioner Bedford said that if we wanted to have a performance management agreement that the County Manager could take care of that. Commissioner Greene said that being a voted member of a non-profit board does create a conflict and she understands the purpose of the recent state law. She said that the Community Home Trust was created by the Chapel Hill Town Council and when the council started to formalize its inclusionary zoning program they brought in the Home Trust. She said they really were an arm of Chapel Hill, but they have started to be the organization for the entire county and would like to have an impact in the county. A motion was made by Commissioner McKee, seconded by Commissioner Richards, that the Board of Commissioners not appoint any representatives for participation in the committee. VOTE: Ayes, 5 (Commissioners Bedford, Fowler, Hamilton, McKee, and Richards) Nays, 2 (Chair Price and Commissioner Greene) MOTION PASSES 5-2 7. Reports None. 8. Consent Agenda Removal of Any Items from Consent Agenda 21 The Board removed item 8-g at the beginning of the meeting. • Approval of Remaining Consent Agenda • Discussion and Approval of the Items Removed from the Consent Agenda A motion was made by Commissioner McKee, seconded by Commissioner Hamilton, to approve the consent agenda with the exception of item 8-g. VOTE: UNANIMOUS a. Minutes The Board approved the draft minutes for the September 13, 2022 Work Session and September 20, 2022 Business Meeting. b. Fiscal Year 2022-23 Budget Amendment#2 The Board approved budget, grant, and capital project ordinance amendments for Fiscal Year 2022-23. c. Amendment to the 2020 Eno Haw Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan The Board approved a resolution amending the 2020 Eno Haw Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan. d. Orange County Vision Zero Policy and Complete Street Policy The Board approved resolutions adopting the Orange County Vision Zero Policy and Complete Street Policy. e. Amendments to the OUTBoard Rules and Procedures The Board approved the amended Orange Unified Transportation Board (OUTBoard) Rules and Procedures addressing quorum and other house-keeping updates. f. Resolution of Intent to Update Orange County's Comprehensive Land Use Plan The Board adopted a resolution of intent to update the Orange County's Comprehensive Land Use Plan in order to maintain compliance with North Carolina General Statute (NCGS) 160D Article 5. g. Approval of the Assistance Policy and the Procurement and Disbursement Policy for the 2022 North Carolina Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA) Urgent Repair Program U( RP22) The Board authorized the County Manager to sign the updated URP22 Assistance Policy, and the Procurement and Disbursement Policy (no revisions from previous approved Policy). h. Inspection Period Extension for the Executed Lease Agreement with Well Dot, Inc. The Board extended the 120-day inspection period contained in the lease agreement between the County and Well Dot, Inc. by 45 days to accommodate additional groundwater testing. 9. County Manager's Report Bonnie Hammersley reviewed the projected agenda items for the October 25, 2022 Joint Meeting with the Fire Chiefs as well as the agenda for the following work session. She also said that Thursday October 20 is the service awards for county employees. She reviewed the Mountains to Sea Trail report is included in the information items. She said that both school districts' grant applications were rejected for the Needs-Based Public School Capital Fund Grant Application. 10. County Attorney's Report John Roberts had no report. 11. *Appointments 22 None. 12. Information Items • October 3, 2022 BOCC Meeting Follow-up Actions List • Memorandum - Proposed Unified Development Ordinance Amendment to Remove the Final Plat Signature Plat Acknowledging Compliance with the Schools Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance (SAPFO) • Memorandum - NC Mountains to Sea Trail Progress Report • Memorandum - Update on the Needs-Based Public School Capital Fund Grant Application 13. Closed Session A motion was made by Commissioner Fowler, seconded by Commissioner Greene, to enter into closed session at 8:50 p.m. pursuant to North Carolina General Statute § 143- 318.11(a)(9) "to discuss and take action regarding plans to protect public safety as it relates to existing or potential terrorist activity and to receive briefings by staff members, legal counsel, or law enforcement or emergency service officials concerning actions taken or to be taken to respond to such activity," and pursuant to North Carolina General Statute § 143-318.11(a)(4) "to discuss matters related to the location or expansion of industries or other businesses in the area served by the public body, including agreement on a tentative list of economic development incentives that may be offered by the public body in negotiations," and for the approval of closed session minutes. VOTE: UNANIMOUS A motion was made by Commissioner Greene and seconded by Commissioner Hamilton to reconvene into regular session at 9:52 p.m. VOTE: UNANIMOUS 14. Adjournment A motion was made by Commissioner McKee and seconded by Commissioner Bedford to adjourn the meeting at 9:52 p.m. VOTE: UNANIMOUS Renee Price, Chair Laura Jensen Clerk to the Board Submitted for approval by Laura Jensen, Clerk to the Board.