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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 12-13-2022 Business Meeting 1 APPROVED 2/7/23 MINUTES ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BUSINESS MEETING December 13, 2022 7:00 p.m. The Orange County Board of Commissioners met for a Business Meeting on Tuesday, December 13, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. at the Whitted Human Services Center in Hillsborough, NC. COUNTY COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Chair Jamezetta Bedford, Vice Chair Earl McKee, and Commissioners Amy Fowler, Jean Hamilton, Renee Price, and Anna Richards COUNTY COMMISSIONERS ABSENT: Commissioner Sally Greene 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 Bedford called the meeting to order at 7:01 p.m. All commissioners were present except for Commissioner Greene. Presentation of the Plaque and Portrait for the Naming of the Whitted Meeting Room as the Donna S. Baker Meeting Room Chair Bedford introduced members of Donna Baker's family who attended the meeting remotely. She invited the family, commissioners, former commissioners, coworkers, and friends of Donna Baker to share personal memories. A photograph was taken of the current and former commissioners in attendance. 1. Additions or Changes to the Agenda There were no changes to the agenda. A motion was made to approve the agenda by Commissioner Hamilton and seconded by Vice Chair McKee. VOTE: UNANIMOUS Chair Bedford 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.) 2 3. Announcements, Petitions and Comments by Board Members Commissioner Fowler said she attended a library task force meeting and that there will be a request for county funding. She said that TARPO met and there is a CMAC grant that Orange County will probably apply for to cover a new vehicle for Mobility on Demand. Vice Chair McKee had no comments. Chair Bedford said that Orange County Sheriff's Deputy Eric Castro and Emergency Services Administrative Assistant Jorge Hernandez were being recognized at a UNC basketball game that was also taking place at the same time as the business meeting. Commissioner Price, read an announcement from Commissioner Greene who could not be in attendance. She said that Triangle J Council of Governments (COG) and the Durham Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) have started discussions about the COG becoming local planning agency or host of the MPO. She said that the conversations are supported by leadership and the MPO policy board. She said that Triangle J is negotiating for a new 10-year lease and more information will be available within the next month. She said that regarding the consent agenda, she wanted to express thanks to the farmers that are part of the voluntary agricultural districts. She requested that the Chair send a thank you letter to the farmers. Commissioner Hamilton wished everyone happy holidays. Commissioner Richards said that the Family Success Alliance canceled their meeting, but she is looking forward to learning more about their conversation regarding changing roles. She said that the Town of Chapel Hill held a public hearing about St. Paul Village, in the Rogers Road neighborhood, and that will add to the affordable housing stock. She said that all of the units are all rentals. She wished everyone happy holidays. 4. Proclamations/ Resolutions/ Special Presentations a. Resolution of Commendation for Commissioner Renee Commissioner Price The Board approved a resolution commending Commissioner Renee Price for her service to Orange County. BACKGROUND: After 10 years as a member of the Orange County Board of Commissioners, Commissioner Renee Price will step down from her position on December 31, 2022 to serve in the NC General Assembly representing NC House District 50. The Orange County Board of Commissioners expresses appreciation to Commissioner Price for her hard work, dedication, and exemplary service to the residents of Orange County, and wishes her the very best in her future endeavors. Vice Chair McKee read the following resolution: ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS RESOLUTION OF COMMENDATION FOR COMMISSIONER RENEE PRICE WHEREAS, the residents of Orange County elected Renee Price to the Board of County Commissioners in 2012, and re-elected her in 2016 and 2020; and WHEREAS, Commissioner Price was elected Chair of the Board of Commissioners in 2020 and again in 2021; and Vice-Chair in 2018 and 2019; and 3 WHEREAS, Commissioner Price has served the residents of Orange County regardless of geographic location faithfully and with honor, integrity and distinction for the past ten years; and WHEREAS, during her service as an Orange County Commissioner, Commissioner Price supported the needs of underserved and neglected neighborhoods; building affordable housing; improving school facilities; preserving farms and agriculture; the progress of small businesses, artists, craft makers, and entrepreneurs; and took special interest in social and racial justice and expanding broadband; and WHEREAS, Commissioner Price has shared her talent for leadership and public service through her work on numerous boards and commissions, including the Durham Technical Community College Board of Trustees, Library Services Task Force, TARPO (Triangle Area Rural Planning Organization), NACo (National Association of County Commissioners), NCACC (North Carolina Association of County Commissioners), Historic Rogers Road Task Force, Community Home Trust Board of Directors, Durham-Chapel Hill-Carrboro Metropolitan Planning Organization Transportation Advisory Committee, Legislative Issues Work Group, Juvenile Crime Prevention Council, Triangle J Council of Governments, Upper Neuse River Basin Association, Alcoholic Beverage Control Board, GoTriangle Special Tax Board, GoTriangle Board of Trustees, Joint Public Safety Training Facility Work Group, Cardinal Innovations County Commissioner Advisory Board, Healthy Carolinians, Justice Advisory Council, North South Bus Rapid Transit Policy Committee, and the Strategic Communications Work Group, among others; and WHEREAS, Commissioner Price was recognized as the WCHL and Chapelboro Hometown Hero in May 2018 and September 2020, and was awarded the WCHL and Chapelboro Village Pride Award in January 2015, the 2021 Special Service Award from the North Carolina Association of Black County Commissioners, the 2020 M.H. "Jack" Brock Outstanding County Commissioner Award from the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners, and the Outstanding Service Award from the National Organization of Black County Officials; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Orange County Board of Commissioners officially commends Renee Price for her hard work, dedication, and exemplary service to the people of Orange County, and wishes her the very best in her service in the North Carolina House of Representatives, and all of her future endeavors. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this resolution be presented to Renee Price and that the Resolution be spread upon the minutes of this meeting. This the 13th day of December, 2022. A motion was made by Vice Chair McKee, seconded by Commissioner Hamilton, to approve the resolution commending Commissioner Renee Price for her service to the residents of Orange County. VOTE: UNANIMOUS 4 Commissioner Price said it was a wonderful time working with everyone and that she would miss everyone, including staff. Commissioner Fowler said she appreciated Commissioner Price's support and wished her luck as she moved on to the NC General Assembly. Vice Chair McKee said now the Board will be bothering Commissioner Price instead of her bothering everyone else. He said the resolution does not cover all of Commissioner Price's accomplishments. Chair Bedford said that Commissioner Price has a great memory and brought graciousness to the Board. Commissioner Richards thanked Commissioner Price for welcoming her to the Board and answering all of her questions and being supportive. Commissioner Hamilton thanked Commissioner Price for her service. She said she learned a lot from watching Commissioner Price. Commissioner Price thanked the staff again for their support. 5. Public Hearings None. 6. Regular Agenda a. Consideration of Food Council Memorandum of Understanding Renewal The Board considered renewing the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the Orange County Food Council as proposed by the Food Council's Executive Committee and considered incorporating recommendations received from the Town of Hillsborough and the Town of Carrboro. BACKGROUND: In 2019, Orange County, Chapel Hill, Hillsborough, and Carrboro began a process to jointly fund a full-time staff position for the Orange County Food Council. The original Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed by all parties in early 2019, and the Food Council Coordinator was hired in July 2019. The existing MOU was meant to be reviewed after two years. The Food Council's Executive Committee, which is comprised of an elected official from each of the participating jurisdictions, is recommending a renewal of the MOU with clarifying updates to the agreement. Staff submitted a request to each jurisdiction to provide an annual presentation and a report for the MOU renewal. Each jurisdiction has received the redlined MOU and annual report materials. The BOCC discussed this topic at its November 10, 2022 work session. The Towns of Hillsborough and Carrboro received presentations from staff in August and October. The following recommendations were provided by Hillsborough and Carrboro: Hillsborough Recommendation 1) In Section B (c), change the final line to, "contribute to the dismantling of systemic racism." Carrboro Recommendations 1) Include a clause stating: a. The County will serve as the administrative and fiscal agent for the Food Council b. An annual report be required to be provided to all jurisdictions c. The line item budget must be submitted to the jurisdictions with the annual report. 5 2) Add the word "collaboration" in the third paragraph of the MOU after "facilitate communication." The Town of Chapel Hill has not scheduled the Food Council MOU renewal for discussion. Travis Myren made the following presentation: Slide #1 ORANGE COUNTY T%40RTH CAROLINA Consideration of Food Council Memorandum of Understanding Renewal Board of Commissioners Business Meeting December 13, 2022 Slide #2 Purpose • Consider renewing the Memorandum of Understanding(MOU)for the orange County Food Council as proposed by the Food Council's Executive Committee • Consider incorporating recommendations receivers from the Town of Hillsborough and the Town of Carrboro. ORANGE COUNTY 2 NPIDIKF1 I CAROLINA 6 Slide #3 Background Original Memorandum of Understanding(MOU}was signed in 2019 • The parties to the original MOU were Orange County and the Towns of Carrboro,Chapel Hill, and Hillsborough • The MOU created a full-time staff position and an operating budgetfunded through a population based formula • The MOU also created an Executive Committee of 1 elected liaison from each pa rticipating Jurisdiction - Ir.puConCac+dlnakorparrad,++enc4rwlwr — Approve annual work plan — Participate in hiring pmceasfDrCoardnatorpositan — RecommeadFoodCouxiBmigetto the CosmtyManager * 2019MOUhasexpired ORANGE COUNTY 3 Nr�Krr r c�t�w�rrvn Slide #4 Executive Committee Recommendations for Renewal Executive Carrimillee Recommendations for an updated MOU - Cmate A 5 year lerm Update pwdntiorF based funding shares IQ oom► 51artt*i 2020 certsm data Orange County No change(39%) Clyapej Hill No change(41%) TowhOcarrkaro Decress4e0yond, ►n4nragrpolnt116%1a14%& TowmofFWdoraup immasedby one pomanwge point(6%loe b Reduce number of council seals from 115 to 11 - Inalude referame to racial equity work ORANGE COUNTY A NLJKrF r CA RC]L r NA 7 Slide #5 Town Recommendations for Renewal • Hillsborough Recommendation — InSocllon!B�Cjcflherokied document.cne *Ihr11nelllno to.'*oaW54d+t who d4awwingofs}xlrmik-redsm,' Carrboro Recommendations Ixiud&e Clauit&Slating; The Cowty tint sera ea the admi-sh two aid fiscal again for eye Fed Council * Ao snn'-jei fepart he mWired In he prow led to aR jw&diebnrks * The line eem budge[mugs be submltted to the IufMiepore,tirnh ne annual report Add the word"cogetareMm' in the Mind peregreph oT U*MOU a11ea`Iscdtle6e conrnunleshan." • Town of Chapel dill has nol.scheduled consideration to renew MOU ORANGE COUNTY 5 NY}FCrI I CAROL-INA Slide #6 Recommendation Consider renewing the Merrtorandurn of Understanding(MOU)for(he Orange County Food Council as proposed by the Food Council's Executive Committee If renewed.consider incorporating recarr>mendatiansreceived from the Town of Htusborough and the Town of Carrboro. ORANGE COUNTY 3 NC}FCrI I CAROL INA Commissioner Hamilton asked when the Food Council was first created. Travis Myren said the council met informally beginning in 2015 and that a formal agreement was made in 2019 to hire a coordinator and establish a committee. Vice Chair McKee said it was a good idea that did not come to fruition. He said he thought it would provide greater opportunities for farmers and food for people that needed it. He said he never understood why the focus never moved from the 30,000 foot level. He said that he never saw a great effort to tie the folks that produce food to the organizations that provide that service. He said it tempered what it was, versus what he expected it to be. 8 Commissioner Price said that when she met with farmers and mentioned the Food Council, they responded with blank looks on their faces. She said she appreciated what the former coordinator did. She said they already know a lot of information about the organizations that provide services. She said she wanted to move forward with another approach to put food on the table. She said she will be voting against renewal of the MOU. Commissioner Richards clarified that currently there is no agreement, because the agreement expired. She asked if it was necessary to have a motion John Roberts said technically the Board would be reviving the agreement under similar and new terms. Commissioner Richards said she believes there is food vulnerability in the county. She said the previous agreement was not meeting food insecurities. She wondered if the MOU needed to be renewed at all. She asked if the Board would like to ask the County Manager to explore new ways to address hunger in the county. Chair Bedford said she wanted to make sure other commissioners got an opportunity to speak before making a motion. She said she thought the Board should consider the MOU first, and then discuss next steps. Commissioner Fowler said there are people working on these issues through Cooperative Extension. She wondered if this is something they could address, or are already addressing, and how did the Food Council improve on what they already do. She said the previous presentations felt inadequate and had information that she already knew. She said they weren't getting to solutions and they needed to address that issue. She read a passage from the minutes from the November 10, 2022 BOCC work session, during which a presentation was made on the Community Food Access Assessment: "She [a community expert] said that people see money going to pay people like her or for a refrigerated truck, when they could use those funds in their bank accounts." Commissioner Fowler said the community experts made the point that it's not just food insecurity but also affordable housing and transportation,which are areas the county already works on. She said there are things they already know need to be done, and said that the Board should prioritize those. Travis Myren said that if the Board directs staff to pursue a different path, there are people in Cooperative Extension and Economic Development that could work on weaving the services together without duplicating services. He said that he understands that the Board is looking for more tangible goods. Commissioner Hamilton said that the Food Council has not met the need. She said that the mission wasn't clear and that the Board needed to think of another way to address this. Vice Chair McKee said his expectations and the reality on the ground never synced up. He said the expiration of the agreement has placed it in limbo; it's still there, and there is an expectation that the Board will make a decision. He said the expiration puts the funding in question. He said that the Board should decide whether or not to renew the MOU rather than decline to address it. Chair Bedford agreed that the MOU should not be renewed. She also agreed that the Board should make a motion and vote on the MOU. A motion was made by Vice Chair McKee, seconded by Commissioner Price, to not renew the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)for the Orange County Food Council as proposed by the Food Council's Executive Committee. VOTE: UNANIMOUS Chair Bedford asked if there needed to be any more discussion or if the County Manager had the direction she needed. 9 Bonnie Hammersley said the request would go on the petition list and staff would look for alternative solutions to the item. Vice Chair McKee requested that various options be brought to the Board for consideration. 7. Reports a. Durham-Chapel Hill-Carrboro Metropolitan Plan Organization Annual Report The Board received a presentation on Durham-Chapel Hill-Carrboro Metropolitan Planning Organization Annual Report. BACKGROUND: The Durham-Chapel Hill-Carrboro Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) is the regional transportation planning agency in North Carolina's western Triangle. In cooperation with the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), the MPO is responsible for the planning and programming of all modes of transportation including highways, public transit, freight, bicycles, and pedestrians. The MPO's work is regionally based, but community focused. The MPO formulates and implements plans that will improve life locally and ensure that plans reflect the expressed needs of its member communities. Orange County is a member community and provided $35,019 in local match funding to support MPO operations this year. Nishith Trivedi, Transportation Services Director, introduced the item and the presenter, Doug Plachcinski, DCHC MPO Executive Director. Doug Plachcinski made the following presentation: Slide #1 DCHC i 2021 -2022 ANNUAL REPORT Doug DirectorExecutive 10 Slide #2 DCHC MPO OVERVIEW AND STRUCTURE DH DCK MPOls the regicnaltranworWonpWnningorgentrAonresponsluiefor r_1 mewealernparumtne pledmontTrmroeerea,MPOsf4llows continuing, wav r<ompreh6nShM,aneC00p61MFvetrdnep0rhYN1bn planningprnaess lhatincludes t, thetleweloprnentafelbrkg•rahgetraFIspartatlanpinn{MTP] aahwlcetcrm Transpoi-Wonknproremer4tPrngmm�TiPi.anclanannwatUnahedRanningwork ' Program(IJP tlP� �I 7ro-r?]r'4i�• r5'F0 "e.?k il+r'Fi:rfCS� Durham County(entire county amiCkty) A porfionoEDrangeCimMylncEu ding thtwwns o?Chapel HER.Car rbora,and l#igsborou-gh HortheastChatham County f membere areebectedolf rWsthal mak-e decislorsan kransponationp�annIngandpDIFQbes x _, •{, x' �r�rHr.�S oouW y. T1 atlalsetheMP4bnerd.entlm mbershipcansislsor etalfrramcPGcsanticnuntles,asweHaslrvmpermeragen�iessuchasHCE}OT, }'•+ � uansPtagencles,urSF�erslltes,antlTrleegCeJCouncklofCovemments, - - TanhlPGs-. support McWeral3,Ctramypvrtanan planning process,r thlptlne PolkyBoard"splre�pon. �—� Slide #3 Executive Director Doug Plachcinski AI P, CFM ❑ H v Durham native, WHS class of 1994 ✓ Undergrad UNC- ,Grab Wayne State(Detrclt) +' PhD candida#eat UNCG, Geography and S ustainabllrty American Institute of Certified Pie nnors member v Certified Floodplain Manager ✓ 23+ years or planning experlence with IDCBI,county, and regional governments 10+ years of MRO experlence In Whlgan, Massachusetts,and North Garolina V 13+years of City. Town, and County planning and F zoning experlence in Michigan, Massachusetts, Wginia, and North Carolina ✓ Began career in the Durham city Trenspattallon _ Department during summer 1995 collecting data for the regional travel demand model and turning movements for intersection analysis- 11 Slide #4 1 DH TRANSPORTATION PLANNING • Comprehensive Transportation Plan i(ICTP) Began work on an amendment to the CTP that would update the bicycle and pedestrian elements to be consistent with current locally adopted plans and to provide guidance to NC DOT on Inc Iuslon of complete streets elements for non-motorized and highway projects. Joint plan with NC DOT that guides transportation project development and reservation of future right of way Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP) The DCHC MPO adapted the 2050 MTP on February 9,2022. - Federal long-range plan that balances revenues and costs. - Projects in the funding plan, Le., Transportadon Improvement Program, MUSS be identlfled In the NITP. • Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) The Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) is a ten-year funding docurnentfix bicycle, pedestrian, highway, rail,and public transportation projects. The MPO updated theTlP several times through the amendment process and also provided input to NCDOT on the draft FY202d-2033 STIR Slide #5 2021 -2022 HIGHLIGHTS DW CORRIDOR STUDIES US 70 Corridor Study (Orange County) Prowde a framework fora safe, efflcwnt and equitable multlmodal transportation system that offers a chohee between public uansportatlon, non-motorized,and automobile modes to seamlessly connect between different transportation options and serves development with appropriate transportation access_ VHB leads this study team. • US 70 Corridor Study (Durham County) Working with Ni}DOT on US 70 from the East End Connector to the WakelDurham line to reduce congestion and provide sane_etf dent transkt and bikelped facdltles_ Consultant STV leads this study team. BICYCLE AN[) PE DPST IAN PLANNING Triangia Bikeway Studer This completed study identit9ed a rnultirmodtal corridor connecting RaWgh,Cary, MorrisvilIa. Research TriangIa Park, Durham.and Chapel Hill. The Triangle Bikeway Regional Advisory Committee of stakeholders meats regularly discuss how to move the bikeway forward. 1+IWaxe County and the Research Triangle Foundation cornmIned funds for environmental Impact analysis and preliminary engineering on the Triangle Bikeway between Raleigh and RTP's west boundary. Doug Plachcinski said that their signature project is the Triangle Bikeway Study and that it is nearing completion. He said they will be presenting the report to the Town of Chapel Hill in January. 12 Slide #6 2021 -2022 HIGHLIGHTS CH TECHNICAL Triangle Regional Model (TRM) An analytical lool for policy decision-making and Ira nsportation/tra nsi I plan development_ The TRM forecasts vehicle volume, transit ridership, non-motorised travel and other travel performance measures,and supports an pollutant emissions model. Regional sta keholders completed a new generation(TRM D2) model for the 20 g base year_ - A key component of the TRM is a Triangle-vide land use model that fore-casts where people will live, worts, shop,and get services through the year 205G_ Congestion Management Process(CMP)and Mobility Report Card(MRC) - A systematic approach to managing new and existing transportation systemsfor relieving congestion and maximizing the safety and mobility of people and goods, - This work focuses on data collection,such as roadway weekday count,turning movement count (TMC)of intersections,and transit ridership data produce performance measures_ Doug Plachcinski said their models forecast future demand. He said they are also promoting alternative transportation forms, reducing congestion, and emissions. Slide #7 YEAR DCHIC TRANSIT PLANNIN( Orange Courfly Transit Plan and Durham County Transit Plan Updates Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities Brant lmpmve seniors' and persons'with dMabiIItie5 mobility by removing transportation ser i-Ce barriers and expanding transportation options. DCHC MPO seared as the Designated Recipient of FTA funds,and coordinated a competitive"IK Ian process for projects. Awards to Orange County Department on Aging. Gopurham, and Chapel Hill Transit. TECHNICAL SERV1i7F=S • Rapid Policy Assessment Tool (RPAT) Used to support the MTP development process by producing key performance measures, such as VMT, from scenarios that differ in land use,transportation network and sarviues, and policies, Big Data Produces current system performance data such as vehicle speeds_travel time, volumes, and traveler origlnldestinatlon to support decision-making. 13 Slide #8 CURRENT YEAR DCHC SPECIAL PROJECT Safe Streets and Roads for All Grant Appli cat!on To fund the development of a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan for regional improvements within the DCHC MPO urbanized area to move towards a Vision Zero goal and planning for low cost, high impact safety irnprovements. PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT The DCHC MPO Public Involvement Policy(PIP)establishes an open decision-making process whereby citizens can be involved in all stages of the tra nsportation planning process, The PIP will continue to guide planning efforts and programs to ensure they are developed in a manner that assures that the public, and muted corn munibes,are aftrded ample opportunity to participate, The MPO will revise and update the PIP in 2D 3-2024_ Slide #9 ENGAGEMENTPUBLIC H QUESTIONS? Contacts Doug.Plachcin kia@dchcmpc).org Commissioner Richards asked if the Triangle Bikeway Study will be presented to the Board. Doug Plachcinski said that they would like to bring it back to the Board. 14 Commissioner Richards asked if they have applied for other funding than the federal transportation grant. Doug Plachcinski said that the MPO has not. He said there are funds that support the North/South Bus Rapid Transit Line. Commissioner Richards asked for clarification. Doug Plachcinski said there are a lot of projects in the infrastructure act and Orange County has asked the MPO to see if there are any county projects that would be most appropriate for some of those funding sources. He said that they will work with the County on that. He said that some of the enhanced funding that was recently approved supports the North/South BRT line. Commissioner Fowler asked if the MPO was becoming part of the Triangle J Council of Governments (TJCOG). Doug Plachcinski said that traditionally, the City of Durham has been the lead planning agency for the MPO. He said that in North Carolina, when the MPOs were developed, the largest city in the area took the lead. He said that is not necessarily how MPOs still exist in North Carolina, or in other states. He said there was a governance study that the MPO produced that suggested that the MPO no longer be housed with the City of Durham. He said they had other alternatives, such as becoming a standalone agency or joining Triangle J COG. He said the TJCOG is re- evaluating office space and other logistical items that make it a great time to move forward with negotiations with them. He said that he is going to ask for authorization to negotiate a new agreement with TJCOG. He said that he appreciates the City of Durham's support for all of the years. Commissioner Fowler asked if TARPO would move or if it would increase the cost. Doug Plachcinski said there would be an increase in cost because Durham does not ask for reimbursement. He said that Durham receives reimbursements for the hard costs that the MPO spends and salaries. He said they would be adding the indirect TJCOG rate but it will be a very transparent calculation. Commissioner Price said she appreciates what the MPO is doing now with more data. She encouraged the MPO to keep up with public engagement. She said that Durham paid ambassadors to ask people in communities what they really need. Doug Plachcinski said it's critical to make the process open and engaged. He said he wanted to make sure materials are straightforward and clear and not full of jargon. He appreciated Commissioner Price's comments. 8. Consent Agenda • Removal of Any Items from Consent Agenda Commissioner Richards requested to remove item 8-d from the consent agenda. • Approval of Remaining Consent Agenda A motion was made by Commissioner Price, seconded by Vice Chair McKee, to approve the remaining consent agenda. VOTE: UNANIMOUS • Discussion and Approval of the Items Removed from the Consent Agenda 15 Commissioner Richards, in reference to item 8-d, Fiscal Year 2022-23 Budget Amendment #4, said that she had concerns about internal controls for pulling Budget out of Finance and putting it under the County Manager's Office. She said it was something they should understand as a Board. She said other communities might have a department called Office of Management and Budget which had a performance and management aspect but it is usually a part of Finance. She looked at other communities in North Carolina and said that the examples were split. She said she wanted to understand the change. Bonnie Hammersley said this is a well-established practice to separate duties. She said that Orange County was the first county she'd worked in where Budget was part of Finance. She said that both departments report to the County Manager. She said that under North Carolina law she is responsible for presenting a recommended budget. She said that it doesn't present concerns for internal controls. She said that North Carolina statutes require a pre-audit by the Finance Department. She said that Budget staff will plan the budget with the County Manager. She said that as they go into the strategic planning process, she wants the Budget staff to be involved in monitoring the plan. She said that it is not appropriate to put that on Finance staff. She said the reason she moved it into the Manager's Office is that she wants a direct line over the budget preparation. Commissioner Richards asked how the plan versus actual is monitored. Bonnie Hammersley said the updates come from Finance. She said it is administered by Finance but not created by it. She said that she moved the positions out and it will report directly to her. She said if there are changes to the budget, those come to the Board as amendments. She said there should be no concern of interaction because both divisions already report to her. She said they identified a position that had been vacant for awhile and it was no longer needed so they did not create an additional position. Vice Chair McKee said he had similar questions. He said he is well aware that it is the County Manager's budget. He said that he thought it would be under the purview of Finance. He said her explanation makes it clearer. John Roberts said that the County Manager is not only required to present a balanced budget but is also, by statute, the Budget Officer. He said that in other forms of government the statute is clear and that the budget has always been under the manager. Vice Chair McKee said it is the manager's budget and he understands that it is not the Board's until they approve it. Bonnie Hammersley said she understood the comments. She said that is removing a layer of management so that budget staff can report directly to her. Chair Bedford said that she researched the duties of a Finance Officer. She said she was glad it was pulled so the Board could understand what they were voting on. Commissioner Hamilton said she appreciated the opportunity to hear from the County Manager on what her thoughts are for the organization. Commissioner Fowler said she thought the proposal made sense. A motion was made by Commissioner Richards, seconded by Commissioner Hamilton, to approve item 8-d. VOTE: UNANIMOUS a. Minutes The Board approved the draft minutes for the November 1, 2022 and November 10, 2022 BOCC Meetings as submitted by the Clerk to the Board. b. Enhanced Voluntary and Voluntary Agricultural District Designation — Multiple Farms The Board approved applications from four (4) landowners/farms to certify qualifying farmland within the High Rock/Efland, Cedar Grove, and New Hope Agricultural District Regions; and enroll 16 the lands in the Orange County Farmland Preservation Program's Enhanced Voluntary Agricultural District or Voluntary Agricultural District program. c. Proposed Eighteen-Month Extension of the State of North Carolina's "Building Reuse Grant" Incentive for Industrial Connections & Solutions/ABB Inc. The Board approved contract amendments for an eighteen-month extension to June 30, 2024, commensurate with the date approved by North Carolina Department of Commerce, for the "Building Reuse Grant" "pass through" incentive approved by the BOCC on June 16, 2020 for Industrial Connections & Solutions/ABB Inc. d. Fiscal Year 2022-23 Budget Amendment#4 The Board approved budget, grant, and capital project ordinance amendments for Fiscal Year 2022-23. e. North Carolina Local Government Commission Contract Amendment The Board amended the contract with the North Carolina Local Government Commission (LGC) to modify the audit fee to include two (2) additional major programs not covered by the engagement letter. The original fee included six (6) major programs and the composition of the County's Schedule of Federal and State Awards (SEFSA) required that eight (8) programs be audited. f. Orange County Transportation Services (OCTS) Title VI Plan The Board approved the Orange County Transportation Services (OCTS) Title VI Plan. g. Schools Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance (SAPFO) — Approval of Membership and Capacity Numbers The Board approved the November 15, 2022 membership and capacity numbers for both school districts (Orange County and Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools)which will be used in developing 10-year student membership projections and the 2023 SAPFO Technical Advisory Committee (SAPFOTAC) Report. h. Correction to the Deed for the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Efland Station, PIN #9844788137 The Board approved a proposed correction to the deed for EMS Efland Station, PIN #9844788137, and authorize the County Attorney to prepare the necessary documents to record the correction. i. Approval of a License Agreement between Orange County and North State Communications Advanced Services, LLC of North Carolina The Board approved a License Agreement between Orange County (Licensor) and North State Communications Advanced Services, LLC of North Carolina (Licensee) to allow the Licensee to install a point-of-presence ("POP") facility to house equipment necessary to operate Licensee's fiber network on Orange County-owned property. j. Change in BOCC Meeting Schedule for 2023 The Board approved changes to the Board of Commissioners' meeting calendar for 2023. k. Authorization for the Clerk to Proceed with Notification Regarding Potential Removal of an Appointee from the Orange County Housing Authority Board The Board authorized the Clerk to the Board to proceed with notification of charges regarding the potential removal of an appointee from the Orange County Housing Authority Board (OCHA Board). 9. County Manager's Report Bonnie Hammersley wished the Board a happy holiday season and said she would be happy to speak to the Board at any time. 17 10. County Attorney's Report John Roberts wished the Board happy holidays. 11. *Appointments a. Schools Safety Task Force —Appointments Discussion The Board discussed and considered approving initial appointments to the non-designated positions on the Schools Safety Task Force. BACKGROUND: The charge and composition of the Schools Safety Task Force were established at the Board's November 15, 2022 Business Meeting. The Task Force is charged to: 1) Discuss ways in which the Orange County government, schools, law enforcement, and community can enhance the safety of the school environment to protect from external threats and promote the education of Orange County K-12 public school students; and 2) Recommend to the Board of County Commissioners new or amended policies, ordinances, and/or practices that will address those external threats and provide a safer school environment for our students. The Board of County Commissioners previously selected Commissioners Jean Hamilton and Earl McKee to serve on the Task Force, and the Board appoints four (4) community members. The following positions are presented for Board consideration: NAME POSITION TYPE OF EXPIRATION DESCRIPTION APPOINTMENT DATE TERM BOCC Resident— CHCCS Partial Term 06/30/2023 Appointment District BOCC Resident— CHCCS Partial Term 06/30/2023 Appointment District BOCC Resident— OCS Partial Term 06/30/2023 Appointment District BOCC Resident— OCS Partial Term 06/30/2023 Appointment District Tara May introduced the item. She said there were 2 applicants from Chapel Hill-Carrboro and 5 from Orange County. Commissioner Price said that that the applicants are qualified, but she was dismayed by the lack of diversity of the applicants and asked if they would consider reopening the application period to see if more people apply. Vice Chair McKee agreed with Commissioner Price's comments. Commissioner Hamilton said she was concerned that reopening would push back the work. Commissioner Richards said that there was diversity in age and in sexual orientation. She said she was concerned that reopening would delay the process. She said she supports looking for ethnic diversity. Commissioner Hamilton said that the schools would also bring people and they may provide diversity. Commissioner Price said she is aware that there are other ways of getting diversity, but considering that Orange County has been trying to do its part in diversity, she wanted to make 18 the point that the process could be kept open. She said that in other situations where the county was not inclusive, they had to back pedal. She said they should be proactive. Chair Bedford said there are two African American females as superintendents. Chair Bedford asked what the Board's pleasure was. Commissioner Fowler made a motion to approve the applicants for the Chapel Hill- Carrboro City Schools resident positions. Chair Bedford read their names, Ad Schein and Cassie Rice. Vice Chair McKee seconded the motion. VOTE: Ayes, 5 (Chair Bedford, Vice Chair McKee, Commissioner Fowler, Commissioner Hamilton, Commissioner Richards); Nays, 1 (Commissioner Price) MOTION PASSES Commissioner Fowler made a motion to appoint Kate O'Boyle to one of the Orange County Schools resident positions. Commissioner Richards seconded the motion. Commissioner Richards said Kate O'Boyle seemed like a good applicant due to her experience with young people. VOTE: Ayes, 5 (Chair Bedford, Vice Chair McKee, Commissioner Fowler, Commissioner Hamilton, Commissioner Richards); Nays, 1 (Commissioner Price) MOTION PASSES Chair Bedford made a motion to appoint Richard Bradford to the second Orange County Schools resident position. She discussed his qualifications. Commissioner Hamilton seconded the motion. VOTE: Ayes, 5 (Chair Bedford, Vice Chair McKee, Commissioner Fowler, Commissioner Hamilton, Commissioner Richards); Nays, 1 (Commissioner Price) MOTION PASSES Commissioner Price said she thinks all of the appointees are fine. Vice Chair McKee said sometimes we have to deal with the hand we are dealt. He said he would have liked to have seen more applicants. Commissioner Fowler asked how the task force was advertised. Tara May said they advertised on listservs, county social media channels, and the newspaper. She said she'd be happy to hear other ideas. Commissioner Richards said she included it in a news sharing group she is part of. Commissioner Hamilton said she knows there are a lot of organizations that she is part of and she forgets to advertise something she has initiated. She asked that staff prompt the Board to remind the community about these opportunities. Tara May said she would work on that. Vice Chair McKee asked if there was a list of churches in the county. He said by contacting churches, information may be shared among their congregations. He said some churches may not want to advertise, but some are more politically active. He said that he reached out to churches for assistance with the COVID vaccine and there was a church that engaged immediately and was happy to be involved in the initiative as a partner. He said this would be good for affordable housing and other social services. 19 Tara May said she will look into if that type of list exists. Bonnie Hammersley said that Janice Tyler in the Aging Department has a list like that. Tara May said she will reach out to Janice Tyler for that list. b. Alcoholic Beverage Control Board —Appointment Discussion The Board considered an appointment to the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board. BACKGROUND: The Alcoholic Beverage Control Board has the authority to buy, sell, transport and possess alcoholic beverages for the operation of its stores. This Board also adopts rules for the ABC system and has the authority to hire and dismiss employees. The Board of County Commissioners appoints all five (5)At-Large members. The following individual is recommended for Board consideration: NAME SPECIAL TYPE OF EXPIRATION REPRESENTATIVE APPOINTMENT DATE TERM Melvin Green At-Large Partial Term 06/30/2023 If the individual listed above is appointed, no vacancies remain. Tara May introduced the item. Commissioner Fowler said that the ABC Board held the recommended applicant, Melvin Green, in high regard. A motion was made by Vice Chair McKee, seconded by Commissioner Price, to appoint Melvin Green to the ABC Board. VOTE: UNANIMOUS 12. Information Items • Memorandum — Orange County-Owned Property Inventory for Potential Affordable Housing Development • Memorandum — Residential Conditional District (R-CD) Zoning Amendments Chair Bedford said she knows that there was a question about the next steps on the inventory. Bonnie Hammersley said they will be examining the land and they will continue to update the Board on the inventory. Commissioner Richards said she wanted to get an understanding of items that were taken off the list. 13. Closed Session A motion was made by Commissioner Fowler, seconded by Vice Chair McKee, to enter into closed session at 8:51 p.m. pursuant to North Carolina General Statute § 143-318.11(a)(5) "to discuss the County's position and to instruct the County Manager and County Attorney on the negotiating position regarding the terms of a contract to purchase real property" and to approve closed session minutes. 20 VOTE: UNANIMOUS A motion was made by Commissioner Hamilton and seconded by Commissioner Fowler to reconvene into regular session at 9:08 p.m. VOTE: UNANIMOUS 14. Adjournment A motion was made by Commissioner Price and seconded by Commissioner Fowler to adjourn the meeting at 9:08 p.m. VOTE: UNANIMOUS Jamezetta Bedford, Chair Laura Jensen Clerk to the Board Submitted for approval by Laura Jensen, Clerk to the Board