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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes-02-07-2023-Business Meeting 1 APPROVED 3/7/23 MINUTES ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BUSINESS MEETING February 7, 2023 7:00 p.m. The Orange County Board of Commissioners met for a Business Meeting on Tuesday, February 7, 2023 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, 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) COUNTY STAFF ABSENT: Chair Bedford called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. All commissioners were present. 1. Additions or Changes to the Agenda Chair Bedford read the public charge: The Board of Commissioners pledges its respect to all present. The Board asks those attending this meeting to conduct themselves in a respectful, courteous manner toward each other, county staff and the commissioners. At any time should a member of the Board or the public fail to observe this charge, the Chair will take steps to restore order and decorum. Should it become impossible to restore order and continue the meeting, the Chair will recess the meeting until such time that a genuine commitment to this public charge is observed. The BOCC asks that all electronic devices such as cell phones, pagers, and computers should please be turned off or set to silent/vibrate. Please be kind to everyone. 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 attended a GoTriangle meeting on January 251h. She said the auditors gave their annual report and GoTriangle had the best audit in recent memory. She also said there is discussion on returning to fares in the next fiscal year beginning July 1st, but GoTriangle will engage in an equity study to determine the best way to do that. She also attended a special GoTriangle meeting on February 1st, to hear from bond council and potential financing options for GoTriangle as an entity to issue debt when it comes time for the commuter rail planned between Durham and Raleigh. She shared that she was very impressed by the knowledge of the presenters. 2 Commissioner Hamilton said she attend the Board of Health meeting on January 2511, where she learned of the Health Department's successful accreditation. She congratulated Quintana Stewart, Health Director, and the entire Health Department for their effort. On January 31 st she chaired the Solid Waste Advisory Group meeting and received a presentation on the community survey that was conducted as the Solid Waste Department prepares for its new strategic plan. She also said she attended the Strategic Communications Committee meeting on February 3rd and she has some ideas for enhancing communication between the county and residents. She said the Capital Needs Work Group will meet February 151" and will pick up the work started last year. She announced the Schools Safety Task Force is starting up this month as well. Commissioner Richards shared that February is American Heart Month, and she is wearing red today for awareness. She said heart disease kills women at a higher rate than all cancers combined. She said there are a number of campaigns this month at CVS and other drug stores for a free evaluation. Commissioner Richards shared that she was wearing African print at the meeting in honor of Black History Month. She said the Seymour Center had an opening for an art exhibit on February 3rd by an artist called Black Butterfly. She said the work was done in crayon and will be there for February and March. She also went to The Chamber for a Greater Chapel Hill Carrboro's annual meeting on February 3rd, and also the ribbon-cutting for Perry Place. She said it is a beautiful low-income housing option with 24 units in Chapel Hill and 24 in Carrboro. She said she also had the opportunity to attend the OWASA Solar dedication at Cane Reservoir. Lastly, she attended Orange County Partnership for Young Children, and their program numbers are down due to lack of staff and transportation. She also shared that the Economic Development Department is introducing a new online system for small businesses called Size Up. It includes information about the market, competition, what to do to build and grow a business, etc. She said it will be a great resource. Chair Bedford said she was also at the ribbon cutting for Perry Place on Friday with Commissioners Greene and Richards. She said a young man she knew as a seventh grader years ago was awarded an apartment. She said these are CASA apartments and a portion will be reserved for people with disabilities. She said she also attended the SWAG meeting with Commissioner Hamilton, and was also at the OWASA Solar dedication with Commissioner Richards. She said this was for an acre of solar arrays to pump water from Cane Creek Reservoir, up to Jones Ferry Rd. where it is processed. Vice Chair McKee said he attended the White Cross Fire Department Board of Directors meeting this past Thursday night for the purpose of passing a resolution for the purchase of additional personal protective equipment. He said this type of loan has to go through a specific state-designated process that requires a county commissioner that serves as a link to the fire departments to be in attendance. He said the department will come to the Board in the spring for a budget request to move forward with the purchase. He shared that he spoke to the Extension and Community Association of Orange County on Saturday. Vice Chair McKee said this group has evolved over the past 100 years and may have been referred to as the Home Demonstration Club by their grandmothers, and the Home Economics Club by their mothers. He said they have a long engaged history in the community of bringing new ideas to the rural part of the county, and the urban parts to some extent. He said the theme of the day was Remember, Reconnect, and Rekindle, and it was an enjoyable event. Commissioner Fowler said she attended the Alliance Health Quality Management Committee, the Alliance Health County Commissioner meeting, and the Alliance Board of Directors meeting on February 2nd. She said they are continuing to work towards their tailored plan implementation which will go live in April. She also said that all of the LMEs across the state are trying to contract with hospitals, which has been the major sticking point. Leadership at the County Commissioner meeting announced that their main push with the North Carolina General Assembly is to work on Medicaid expansion. Commissioner Fowler said she also attended the 3 Chamber of Commerce meeting on February V and they reported a large increase in membership. Later that day she also attended the Juvenile Crime Prevention Council meeting, and the programs are starting to have increased referrals now. Finally, on February 41h, she attended the Legislative Breakfast on Mental Health. She shared that 61 counties have no pediatric psychiatrist and 34 have no psychiatrist at all. She said that the Department of Health and Human Service's goal this year is also Medicaid expansion, which would prevent closure of rural hospitals and behavioral health care centers across the state. She said she it seems hopeful that Medicaid expansion will finally pass this year. 4. Proclamations/ Resolutions/ Special Presentations a. Discussion and Appointment for the Vacant Position on the Orange County Board of Commissioners The Board discussed nominees and made an appointment to the vacant position on the Board of County Commissioners. BACKGROUND: At its December 5, 2022 Business Meeting, the Board of County Commissioners addressed the issue of filling the vacant District 2 seat on the Board, which occurred on December 31, 2022. State statute requires that the Board consult the political party with which the departing commissioner is affiliated. The Board decided on the following course of action for filling the vacancy, which follows a similar process used for filling a previous vacancy in 2021: • The application form for nomination was produced and advertised by the Clerk to the Board Laura Jensen, after revisions were suggested by the Board of County Commissioners. • Applications for the vacancy were submitted to the Clerk to the Board by Friday, January 6, 2023, at 5:00 pm. Any individual wanting to be considered for the vacancy had to submit an application. • The Clerk's Office forwarded all applications to the Orange County Democratic Party and BOCC members for review. In addition, the applications were sent to the Board of Elections to verify eligibility of each candidate. • The Orange County Democratic Party had until January 30, 2023 to review the applications and provide a nomination/nominations to the Clerk to the Board and the Chair of the BOCC. • The BOCC agreed to consider the nominations and vote by ballot on an individual to fill the vacancy at the February 7, 2023 BOCC meeting. According to State statute, the appointment of a new Board member must be made within sixty days of the vacancy. Otherwise, the Clerk of Superior Court shall make the appointment. Thus, the BOCC has a deadline of March 1, 2023 to make an appointment. The Clerk to the Orange County Board of Commissioners received applications from the following individuals for the commissioner vacancy by the published deadline of 5:00 pm on Friday, January 6, 2023. Director of Elections Rachel Raper has confirmed that all of the applicants are registered Democrats and reside in District 2, making them eligible for appointment to the vacant seat. • Gail Corrado • Horace Johnson • Phyllis Portie-Ascott • Brenda Stephens • Natalie Ziemba 4 On January 17, 2023, Gail Corrado formally withdrew her name from consideration for the vacancy. The applications from each remaining applicant are attached. Following the process used when filling a previous vacancy in 2021, the applicants will each have two minutes to address the Board prior to any action. Correspondence from the Orange County Democratic Party is also attached regarding consideration of the applicants. The person chosen by the Board of Commissioners will take the Oath of Office at the February 16, 2023 Board work session and begin service at that meeting. The selected individual will serve until December 2, 2024, and a primary and general election will occur in 2024 to elect an individual to serve a full, four-year term through 2028. Chair Bedford invited applicants to give their two minute remarks. Brenda Stephens greeted the Commissioners. She thanked them for the opportunity to speak with them. She said she would like to share a few thoughts about her interest, experience, and reason for pursuing a seat on the Board. She said it has been her life's work to lead by serving others, first as a battalion leader in the Army, and her many years as regional director of the Orange County Public Library. She said she has committed herself to the service of others, initiating new strategies, offering solutions for how to work together, and using differences to move forward. As discussed at the Democratic forum, one of her primary goals is bringing smart economic development to the area to increase jobs and produce goods and services that enhance the overall wellbeing of all citizens. Growing up and raising a family here, she said she has seen great change in the area from technology to the town library and the lifesaving gift of access with the opening of UNC Hospital's Hillsborough location. She said there are so many more success stories, which some of those on the Board approved. She thanked them for their work. If given the honor to serve on the Board, she pledged to bring years of government engagement experience to the table, as well as vision to continue providing the area with rich, innovative, and forward-thinking solutions for developing the county, while respectfully holding its rich history with the highest regard. She said it would be her honor to serve the great people of Orange County. Phyllis Portie-Ascott greeted the Board and thanked them for hearing her comments tonight and said it is an honor to be considered for the vacancy. As a community leader, she said she has supported other candidates for their run for office, and tonight she is thankful for those who have expressed their support for her. She said she is grateful for the opportunity to meet residents willing to share their priorities for Orange County. She said she is also grateful to be the recommended candidate by the Orange County Democratic Party. She said she appreciates all of the residents who elevated their voices to ensure the Board knew of her hard work, integrity, and dedication to this community. While this position represents District 2, she said the decisions made by the Board impact all of Orange County. She said she has gotten to know people all over the county to learn about their concerns through her voter experience work. She said it is not uncommon to hear praise for Orange County across the state from public schools to the management of the Housing Authority. She offered kudos to the Board for their work in creating an Orange County in which she loves living and serving. If appointed she said she looks forward to working collaboratively to create an Orange County that all residents can love because they can raise their families, live in their homes, work in their community, and access services when needed. Horace Johnson introduced himself to the Board, and said he was born and raised in Hillsborough and is representing the voice of historically disenfranchised Northern Orange County. He said his mom's family dates back to 1752 in this town. He said he worked 22 years beside his dad who served 10 years on the town board and 12 years as mayor. He said some of 5 the Board is aware of his community interest from tax assistance for those who qualify, addressing mental health needs, addressing the needs of non-English speaking residents related to DMV stops where they didn't understand what to do with their tags. He said his public service started in 1966 when he was 11 years old by integrating the white school system in Hillsborough on the third floor of the Whitted building, which is the home of the Orange County Board of Commissioners. He said he strives for inclusion and acceptance by representing his community. He said his dad always told him to stick with the facts and let the facts be the truth. According to census data, he said African Americans make up 11.9% of Orange County's population. Currently the Board's composition is 43% white female, 28% black female, and 14% white male. He respectfully requested his appointment to the Board of Commissioners, adding another demographic. He said he is home-grown, here to serve the people, and will do it with all his heart. He said he loves the town and thanked the Board for hearing his comments. Natalie Ziemba introduced herself to the Board and said she uses she/her pronouns. She said her training as a social worker taught her to look at the social and environmental context of what works and what doesn't. She believes there are a lot of policies that work well in Orange County, but asked how policy can be used to improve those contextual pieces and build a sense of connected community, safe housing, and stable employment that helps build financial wealth. She asked how policy can lead to a more holistic economic bottom line that considers environmental and community protections in addition to the more traditional metrics of profit margins and job creation. She asked how policy could also support the youngest generation of workers facing a different career landscape than the traditional professional trajectory available to generations before. She said these are all incredibly complex problems with multiple options for moving forward, and keeping the social and environmental context pieces will lead to political decisions that continue to improve the community. She said she hopes to be part of the team making the decisions. She thanked the Board for their consideration. Chair Bedford reviewed the background information for the item for members of the public who may not be aware of the reason for the vacancy. She explained that former Commissioner Renee Price was elected to the North Carolina House of Representatives, which created the vacancy on the Board. She thanked the four applicants for applying. She said they have all demonstrated that they have a history of service to this county and state, which she appreciates. She hopes those who are not appointed will continue to serve, join an advisory board, or run for office in the future. Commissioner Fowler seconded Chair Bedford's sentiments, and thanked the applicants for putting themselves out there and their engagement. She said she hopes that engagement will continue even if they aren't the one selected to join the Board. Vice Chair McKee said it takes a lot of courage to step forward. He said he remembers what a daunting task it was to run for commissioner back in 2009. He said all of the applicants are well-qualified and appreciates them all for applying. He said he thinks they can find a way to keep them all engaged, hopefully through advisory boards. Commissioner Richards said, having gone through this process recently, she understands how each of the applicants is feeling. She thanked them for putting themselves forward for this seat and said she looks forward to working with them either on the Board or other ways. Commissioner Hamilton thanked all of the applicants for applying and said she would be happy to talk to anyone about running for the Board in the future. Commissioner Greene said she agrees with the other members of the Board and thanked the applicants for stepping up and their willingness to serve. She said she hopes they will stay engaged with the Board and the community going forward. Laura Jensen, Clerk to the Board, said the members of the Board have a ballot in front of them and asked them to circle the name of the person they would like to vote for and sign their name. She said the Deputy Clerk, Tara May, would collect the ballots and then she would read 6 the ballots out loud, including the name of the commissioner who made the vote, since they are not secret ballots. Vote to fill vacancy on Board of Commissioners: 6 votes cast for Phyllis Portie-Ascott(Jamezetta Bedford, Amy Fowler, Sally Greene, Jean Hamilton, Earl McKee, Anna Richards) By unanimous vote, Phyllis Portie-Ascott was appointed to the vacant position on the Board of County Commissioners. Chair Bedford said there will be a swearing in ceremony for Commissioner Portie-Ascott on February 16'. She said Laura Jensen will be in touch to arrange who she would like to swear her in. She said there is quite an extensive orientation process, which the County Manager, Deputy Manager, and Department Heads participate in. She said the Clerk's Office and County Attorney are available, and said Greg Wilder in the Manager's Office is also a big help to Commissioners. b. 2023 Year of the Trail Proclamation and Great Trails State Coalition The Board considered adoption of a proclamation declaring 2023 as the "Year of the Trail" in Orange County, and joining the Great Trails State Coalition as a government partner. BACKGROUND: The North Carolina General Assembly and North Carolina State Parks have declared 2023 to be the "Year of the Trail" in the state. Communities and organizations across the state have been asked to share a proclamation to this effect. An organization entitled the Great Trails State Coalition has also been formed to support this effort and promote the use and construction of trails across North Carolina. The attached proclamation and materials note that trail use has increased more than 300% in many parks and open spaces in the last year. One of the peripheral outcomes of the pandemic illustrated the importance of outdoor recreation opportunities such as hiking, walking and biking trails. Outdoor recreation is a $28 billion industry, and trails support public and personal physical and mental well-being, and promote economic vitality and connectivity—allowing residents of the state to capitalize on the natural beauty, warm people and rich history. Trails in Orange County and across the state connect people, towns, natural areas, parks and open space, and other cultural and natural resources. Orange County currently has over 13 miles of trails within its nine parks and nature preserves, with plans for more—including a long segment of the statewide Mountains to Sea Trail. A number of local governments have joined the Great Trails State Coalition and others are being asked to adopt the Year of the Trail proclamation. The Orange County Capital Investment Plan reflects trails as a priority with funding dedicated to new trail acquisition and construction. On December 7, 2022, the Orange County Parks and Recreation Council reviewed the Great Trails State Coalition and Year of the Trail, and passed a unanimous statement of support for joining the coalition and approving the proclamation. David Stancil, Department of Environment, Agriculture, Parks, and Recreation (DEAPR), reviewed the background information for the item and gave the following PowerPoint presentation: 7 Slide #1 ORANGE COUNTY NORTH CAROLINA 22 - Year of the Trail Great Trails State Coalition Slide #2 Year of the Trail 2023 • Trails important for open space, environment, economy and public health • Over 30 miles of trail in the County (13 miles within County parrs and preserves) • Mountains to Sea Trail (MST) — important segments connecting Saxapahaw to Durham • Many local governments have adapted ORANGE COUNTY w70R-n I C_iAULLNA David Stancil said trail use increased 300% during the pandemic and continues to be well above normal now. He said trails and trail corridors are important for the protection of the environment and provide spaces for native species to thrive. He said urban communities have embraced trails as a way to connect people with town center and local businesses. He said there are also great linkages between hiking and walking with public health and mental health and well- being. 8 Slide #3 Mcaarira rhF-to-S,ea St�u7e�radr �M k � Ge�iQne6ed$rplilbfrt6 Plannleg SdyikSenCe �.� LE�rhMd y�YGE$�7M':atiYQ�S MiSCry71 Fr•+ -0 rjwp.— Romm W} Q Dwr Fr Tea" nemwe"NJ Fr mL*.. -Rk6w In F5 ummmGnii Paw"i`—er r Q'kdl...LthW.I.OWMr CNeAL m:rr fl r—d Id 8;amNiBk�ePapt �V,}�kwFi.4r�rryF•�¢ty43WNfl O F,rPwa FJpu•ymreuwr d",U-Ylr'.h&gNx— O i,reeryM, G.+s.,n!Dwffr ean Pp"I 4 tee+mo �VroT ra O nrnr..r c—ft 10 L..,rC—Ip µ.adr L.rre, O FrhLrLm 2 hk-1m.- Ib 6oDirfiOwoiCmrdr kkiLvowEovrw-t ${lia xar+l rx,mir#irravr; apr,cdran r—Guurtr 6urirNudri— 'Dtf vnn.w'1,r. Q e.1 r,.i ORANGE -gyp AN+y`r�irC<COUNTY Slide #4 -f� ORANGE COUNTY .',X)Rf]I iAROMNA Slide �v \ • � � - ��� - '2�■■ . �± z � - - . ORANGE David Stancil said trails are a source , pride, reinvigoration, and a .. , community Slide . � IL CIO FMST ORANGE COUNTY .5 • _ .� - 3�� David Stancil . . trailcreation takes , group„ people working together. Volunteer Work Days are vital to keeping trails passable , safe. 10 Slide #7 ORANGE COUNTY .")} 1"I I�'A r{13.I NA David Stancil said the Parks and Recreation Council recommended approval of the proclamation. Chair Bedford said it would be great to integrate The Year of the Trail with the Arts project happening in July and August. She said people could go for a hike and enter into the towns for the arts. She said he could also work with the Visitor's Bureau to get the word out about the trails. David Stancil said that was a great idea and he will talk to the Arts Commission and Visitor's Bureau. Commissioner Greene said Chair Bedford is talking about the Uproar, and agreed that's a great idea. Commissioner Fowler asked how the additional state funding for trails is being distributed. David Stancil said they are currently determining how to disseminate it. He said he is currently waiting for guidance on how grants or other awards might work. He also introduced Bill Boyarsky of Friends of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail. Bill Boyarsky said he is the task force leader and manages volunteer efforts to maintain trails in Orange County. He said there is typically a volunteer work day once a month with 20-30 volunteers. He said the projects have ranged from invasive species removal around the Occoneechee Speedway, fixing Cane Creek bridge, bringing trails up to state parks standards. He said this is all for the goal of connecting Gold Park to Seven-Mile Creek through Occoneechee Mountain. He said they have also done work on JM Johnson reserve trail, which is soon to be turned over to Eno River State Park. He said they were also instrumental in connecting a land- owner that was interested in selling with the Eno River State Park, which resulted in the addition of a 7 acre block of land. He said he appreciates Orange County and DEAPR for their partnership. Commissioner Fowler thanked him for all of his work and read the following proclamation: ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS PROCLAMATION 2023 YEAR OF THE TRAIL WHEREAS, Orange County's natural beauty is critical to its residents' quality of life, health, and economic wellbeing; and 11 WHEREAS, the trails that span across our community are an integral part of the recreational and transportation possibilities of our area and promote an enjoyment of scenic beauty by residents and visitors; and WHEREAS, the parks, greenways, trails and natural areas in our community are welcoming to all and provide a common ground for people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds to access our rich and diverse natural, cultural, and historic resources; and WHEREAS, Orange County's natural assets and resources are integral to disaster recovery and resiliency to climate change for future generations; and WHEREAS, Orange County trails and others across the state connect people, towns, natural areas, parks and open space, and other cultural and natural resources, with Orange County's nine parks and nature preserves providing more than 13 miles of trails— including seven miles at Little River Regional Park and Natural Area, and with plans to add more, and including a large segment of the State's Mountains to Sea Trail that stretches more than 1,000 miles from the mountains to the coast; and WHEREAS, trails offer quality-of-life benefits to all as expressions of local community character and pride, as outdoor workshops for science education, as tools for economic revitalization, as free resources for healthy recreation, as accessible alternative transportation, and as sites for social and cultural events; and WHEREAS, annual trail runs such as the annual Little River Trail Run and community hiking activities on Orange County trails and nature preserves are significant in importance to show how valuable trails are to Orange County residents; and WHEREAS, the North Carolina General Assembly designated 2023 as the Year of the Trail in North Carolina to promote and celebrate the State's extensive network of trails that showcase our State's beauty, vibrancy and culture; and WHEREAS, North Carolina is known as the "Great Trails State"; NOW THEREFORE, we, the Orange County Board of Commissioners, do hereby proclaim 2023 as the "YEAR OF THE TRAIL" in Orange County, and commend its observance to all people. Adopted by the Orange County Board of Commissioners, this the 7th day of February, 2023. Jamezetta Bedford, Chair Laura Jensen, Clerk to the Board Orange County Board of Commissioners A motion was made by Commissioner Fowler, seconded by Commissioner Hamilton, to approve and authorize the Chair to sign the proclamation declaring 2023 to be the "Year of the Trail" in Orange County Chair Bedford offered a friendly amendment to approve the county joining the Great Trails State Coalition as a government partner organization. Commissioner Fowler accepted the amendment. 12 VOTE: UNANIMOUS 5. Public Hearings a. 5311 Rural Area Formula Grant and Combined Capital Program (5311/5339) Grant for FY 2024 The Board conducted a public hearing on the 5311 Administrative grant application and the Combined Capital grant application for FY 2024; approved the 5311 Administrative grant application and the Combined Capital grant application; approved the Program Resolution (Attachment 1) and Local Share Certification (Attachment 2); and approved the annual master documents (Attachment 3). BACKGROUND: Each year, the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) Integrated Mobility Division (IMD) accepts requests for capital, operations and administrative needs for county-operated transit programs. Orange County Transportation Services (OCTS) is eligible to make an application for both capital and administrative funding and seeks a total of $617,405 in federal and state transit grant funding. Detailed breakdown is outlined in the table below: Source 5311 Admin Grant Combined Capital Totals Grant Total $ 196,947 $ 500,000 $ 696,947 Federal $ 157,557 $ 400,000 $ 557,557 State $ 9,848 $ 50,000 $ 59,848 Local $ 29,542 $ 50,000 $ 79,542 OCTS provides the opportunity for access to jobs and services to many individuals. The 5311 Administrative and Combined Capital grants provide financial support for transit services that promote economic self-sufficiency to a wide range of residents and locations. The funds additionally support a system that enhances the access of residents in the non-urbanized areas to health care, shopping, education, employment, public services, and recreation. TRANPORTATION ADVISORY SERVICE (TAS) Action: The TAS met on Thursday, January 26, 2023 and unanimously recommended approval. Orange Unified Transportation Board (OUTBoard) Action: The OUTBoard met on Thursday, January 26, 2023 and unanimously recommended approval. Nish Trivedi, Transportation Services Director reviewed the background information for the item. A motion was made by Commissioner Fowler, seconded by Commissioner Richards, to open the public hearing. VOTE: UNANIMOUS No one was signed up to speak. 13 A motion was made by Commissioner Fowler, seconded by Vice Chair McKee, to close the public hearing. VOTE: UNANIMOUS A motion was made by Commissioner Fowler, seconded by Vice Chair McKee, to approve and authorize the Chair and staff to sign the Program Resolution (Attachment 1) and Local Share Certification (Attachment 2) as appropriate, and approve and authorize the Chair and staff to sign the annual master documents (Attachment 3) as appropriate. VOTE: UNANIMOUS 6. Regular Agenda a. Approval of a Professional Services Contract with Berry, Dunn, McNeil & Parker, LLC to Create a Countywide Strategic Plan, and Approval of Budget Amendment#5-C The Board considered the approval of a professional services contract with Berry, Dunn, McNeil & Parker, LLC to create a Countywide Strategic Plan, and approve Budget Amendment#5-C. BACKGROUND: During the Board of Commissioners 2022 Retreat, the Board authorized staff to solicit proposals from vendors to assist in the creation of a comprehensive, Countywide Strategic Plan. A Request for Proposals was released in late September 2022. The scope of work includes a data driven strategic planning process that is grounded in the principles of equity, responsive to the concerns and priorities of the community, positions the County to address the challenges of the future, and is fiscally sustainable. The outcome of this process will be a comprehensive strategic plan that presents: • a clear planning process and approach • a community engagement process • relevant data and analysis of trends • identification of opportunities and strategies • a process to prioritize and focus County programs and services, and • an implementation plan with performance measures that track progress on achieving the goals of the plan. The project is anticipated to take nine to twelve months. An evaluation review committee consisting of the BOCC Chair Jamezetta Bedford, Commissioners Amy Fowler and Anna Richards, the Deputy County Manager, the Chief Equity and Human Rights Officer, the Budget Director, and the Planning & Inspections Director evaluated all proposals, interviewed two finalists, and unanimously selected the team of Berry, Dunn, McNeil & Parker, LLC to perform this work. The project will be performed and billed over five phases as detailed in the following table: 14 Phases and Deliverables Phase 1. Project Initiation and Planning D01. Project Work Plan and Schedule $3,480 D02. Biweekly Status Meetings $5,250 Phase 1 Sub-Total $8,730 Phase 2. Stakeholder Engagement D03. Environmental Scan and Community Needs Assessment $17,100 Phase 2 Sub-Total $17,100 Phase 3. Strategic Plan Development and Approval D04. Initial Orange County Strategic Plan $14,190 D05. Final Orange County Strategic Plan $3,640 Phase 3 Sub-Total $17,830 Phase 4. Implementation Recommendations and Budget D06. Recommendations Report and Project Closeout Activities $9,870 Phase 4 Sub-Total $9,870 Phase 5. Performance Monitoring and Continuing Engagement D07. Progress Reports $18,900 Phase 5 Sub-Total $18,900 Statistically Valid Survey Sub-Total $24,500 Travel Expense Sub-Total $8,373 Project Total $105,303 The total cost of the strategic plan is $105,303. This price includes a statistically valid community survey to be performed by the ETC Institute for $22,000 plus an in person presentation of the survey and analysis for$2,500. The stakeholder engagement phase includes eighty-six hours of community engagement work. The BerryDunn team is scheduled to make a presentation to the Board at its February 24, 2023 Retreat to address any questions about the firm's approach, begin initial visioning with the Board, and discuss stakeholder and community engagement. If the amount of engagement exceeds the current contract amount, staff will create an addendum to accommodate the Board's desired level of engagement. 15 Travis Myren reviewed the background information and gave the following PowerPoint presentation: Slide #1 Agenda Item 6-a ORANGE COUNTY 1 T'H �' R I.IN Approving a Professional Services Contract for a Countywide Strategic Plan Board of Commissioners Business Meeting February 7, 2023 Slide #2 Purpose Approve and authorize the County Managerto execute a contract with Derry, Dunn, McNeil& Parker, LLD for the purpose of creating a Countywide Strategic Phan. Approve Budget Amendment#5-C allocating S 105.303 from the County Capital Re8arve Fund to fund the contract amount_ RAf GE COUNTY 2 NC7FfTFI CARC31.kNA 16 Slide #3 Background Board asked staff to create a scope of Two finalists interviewed by the evaluation servicesduring 2 022 Saard Retreat team in January Board approved scope of services and a Unanimously recommend con tract award to Request for Proposals was issued in Berry, Dunn, McNeil &Parker, LL September 2022 (BerryDunn) Nine proposals scored by an evaluation team - Chair Bedford Cammissloner Fowler - Commissioner Richards - Director or the Office of Equity and Iriclusi4n Pianning &Insp ims MwLor Budgbl alreolor - Depuky County Manager ORANGE COUNTY 3 N4(3FCi1 I CAROLINA Travis Myren said they received ten proposals, but one was disqualified for failing to submit proper documentation. Slide #4 Technical Approach — FR a Phases F Phase I —Project Initiation and Flanging - Board Retreat - Stakeholder Massagilrrg and Corm numcatioi,s • R0nrunWsk4kdingdfUarn goals mod S�aiegyI°bidi4dav'arema6afthe planning process expscuftns for ihlr SlMlAgg Plan OppominbasiagLRinnived • Candxaan rrllal vlslonns sesslon _ Questions and PTolaeals for Switeholdar • Idemify key etakeboldere and dasimilleueioF communityangeg$mant Inulr+�ievrs and Focus Group What oin"wa aifscl oaunty suv1cse7 - Enc�ranntientel Scan �'haler*po4snhaiscenarl�*f4a�lenning7 • Whet are Me maatpQeeeingpmob1ern9 risanaee7 • Dome. rapim and dovoopmAPL4Ir"s - Howe#lecbMearecurrentaersacee7 E acting partnerships Whsm we there opparhmties fxQ Wnwemffl? Budgetdocuments E&Angplans and plane in progress - Key Deliverable. Projac't WcFrk Plan and Existing pedormenea metrics • Documsma-le*cnto jramM.culkral Mrlkage. Schedule natural and bulk vw1rannunk ORA IGE COUNTY A N4DFCTFI CAROILINA 17 Slide #5 Technical Approach — Five Phases F Phase 2-Stakeholder Engagement - Community Survey - Gommurift Forums Condur-updby ETC Insilwo und*r*ub-cont+ao Opportunity to educate sbout the Courrty and VeMs excompletedwrvey* ikety to impacttlre County and itaraeideuts PrecawnWal+1.4%wMh 9 %wal of conrl6oncs Faciztedcommunity farms-in pefsonand virtesl • Campadsonsbydefnograplksarother chwactefistit s Inpsrsonpresentationofresults - Key DiIfYetablee • EEC SurveyResulla - Stakeholder Engagemenblrrturyiews EnvironmentnEscan Eosad membefs CommunIty NeadsAsst:ssmeru DepartrnefmMsds Employees Cammunity gmupsand orgsnizAcns • Meeting In a Lox SctpinpolnkUS'eb*Ia« ORANGE COUNTY 5 Nr4(jKF1 I CAROLINA Travis Myren said ETC has done surveys for Durham and Buncombe counties. Slide #6 Technical Approach — Five Phases F Phase 3- Strategic Plan Development - P.1mirung Sussian 9 - Key Deliverables Un"rstz--:torntra-'­onrAi#can a"dc3mrnunity Dran Strategic Pkan n~fcl*at."ss ionk FlrtalSlra#egtr P6ani rB�ard sioPlton • Mlsslon.Vow.and Values Start idefailY°q stra"ic prsaritiesaced goals Dot umerts6on of aatcomtsa sand next steps - Plannlinig Sessions 2 an-d 3 Rew�wou4camtaof*rsa+anl Developab dive-,perftwu%xwe indcatus Defineimplemerm ionstrategies - Dovolop Draft Stmegin Plan 1mvparate1hrautcornn01:w re*sartnAnd Planning*rsWos • Revowby9oardofComm"ows and county leadership External Aarkeawlderreview ORANGE COUNTY a NORTH CAR{}3JNA 18 Slide #7 technical Approach — Five Phases F Phase 4—Implementation - Rocommendarlons Ruporr Haw la m6wom p+ogs*ss How Io evaluate mftorn*s Budg*In**ds,Ifwy - Pra}ect Closeout D*Ilw*ry-of all 6acumemaCwnand data<oll*ct*d Lasunslawwd Knowi*dga wwdkq Key Deliverables kecnmmen�iakrons RQpert Clnsentdtlnr.umeFrt�iur�n RANGE COUNTY lr(jKI-I I C':ALI{}LINA Slide #8 Technical Approach — Five Phases F Phase 5—Monitoring - Progress Reporting BI•ennual report me 24 morKhs - t3ene#marks - rplellar mtes Comwmamns Poaemlal sgasunerrur to me pmn Key Deliverables prU�r C55 FQ�OF'LS ORANGE COUNTY 3 114NDKr1 L CAR OLINA 19 Slide #9 Recommendation Approve and authorize the County Manager to exeoutea contract with Berry, Dunn, McNeil& Part er, LLC for the purpose of creating a Countywide Strategic Plan; Auth orize the Cou my M a eager to approve arnend meets to the Agreement,u p to the budgeted amount; Approve Budget Amend men I#5-C allocating$105.303 from the Counly Capital Reserve Fund to the Strategic Plan project account. RANGE COUNTY 9 Nr4D 'rl I CAl1t}1_INA A motion was made by Commissioner Richards, seconded by Commissioner Fowler, to: 1) Approve and authorize the County Manager to sign the contract with Berry, Dunn, McNeil & Parker, LLC to create a Countywide strategic plan at a cost of$105,303; 2) Authorize the County Manager to approve amendments to the agreement with Berry, Dunn, McNeil & Parker, LLC up to the budgeted amount; and 3) Approve Budget Amendment#5-C as detailed above. Chair Bedford thanked the commissioners who served on the Strategic Plan subcommittee. Commissioner Hamilton asked what the commissioners on the subcommittee were looking for when reviewing consultant options. Commissioner Richards said it was important to her for there to be a way to evaluate, monitor, and follow up on the plan. She said Berry-Dunn did it the best. She said the first phase includes an environmental plan. She said they will look at incorporating current plans and take them into account. Commissioner Fowler said she thinks Berry-Dunn offered the most engagement opportunities and seconded what Commissioner Richards said. VOTE: UNANIMOUS b. Proposed Revisions to the Wild and Dangerous Animal Provisions in the Orange County Unified Animal Control Ordinance The Board received the first reading of proposed revisions and changes to the Wild and Dangerous Animal provisions in the Orange County Unified Animal Control Ordinance. BACKGROUND: The Animal Services Director and key staff worked with the Animal Services Advisory Board (ASAB) and the County Attorney on proposed revisions to the Unified Animal 20 Ordinance—specifically, Division 4-Display of Wild and Exotic animals; Division 5-Keeping of Wild Animals Dangerous to Persons and Property, and definitions related to these sections. The work on these ordinance changes began in 2019 and was completed in 2022. In addition, minor changes for the dangerous dog definitions are included in this proposed update. These changes are introduced to improve oversight and implementation of the dangerous dog law.The Animal Services Director and the County Attorney evaluated other North Carolina County dangerous dog ordinances, consulted with experts at the UNC School of Government, and consulted with the ASAB to develop these recommended changes. Proposed Changes: • Define wild animals • Define wild and dangerous animals • Update violations and civil penalties with regards to wild and dangerous animals • Exemptions updated • Control of dangerous animals 4-42 b(3) change to serious injury • Define serious physical harm, human vs animal Because violations of some of the provisions of this chapter of the Code of Ordinances are punishable as misdemeanors, the amendment will be presented for two readings for adoption. Dr. Sandra Strong, Animal Services Director, gave the following presentation: Slide #1 ORANGE COUNT` NORTH CAROLINA Unified Animal Ordinance Amendment Wild and Dangerous Animal What are Mid and Dangerous animals? ?dand Dangerous Arr+rr+als: ild animals = that are deemed dangerous and Inaurhaus,or - potentially dangerous and injurious,tothe public andlor domesttcaled animals andior i other property based on elevated risk of causing physical,zoonotk or epidemiological harm. �v�:rdaQ 4}b•ds�G2� 21 Slide #2 Proposed Changes • Clarify definition of wild animals Clarify definikion wild and dangerous animals A. - • Display of wild & dangerous animals prohibited • Narrow & clarify exemptions Update civil penalties • Define serious physical harm — Human — Animal ORANGE COUNTY 2 wRIFCf]I C_iROLINA Slide #3 Definitions • Exotic Animais:Animals other than domestic animals or farm animals that are not native to North Carolina, or are native to North Carolina but have been captive-bred. • WldAnimals: An animal (other than livestork) that typically is found in a non-domesticated state. • Wild and Dangerous Anima)s: W ild anirnals that are deemed dangerous and injurious, or potentWly dangerous and injurious, to the public and/or domesticated animals and/or other property based on elevated risk of causing physical, zoonotic or epidemiological Harm. ORANGE COUNTY ',X)W-]I CAROLINA 22 Slide #4 Division 4- Display of wild, Mid and dangerous, or exotic animal Unlawful to display gild, exotic, gild & dangerous animals - Exemptions Education-permits from LJ DAandNGWildlifeCommission Animal Services in writing-30 days in advance * Rabies ve-otor-ensure no public contact - Enforcernent; investigate complaint Written warning to desist Possible impoundment - Penalties * Class 3 Misdemeanor Civil penalty 250 per incident Dr. Sandra Strong said that the civil penalty is changing from $50 per animal to $250 per incident. She said the Animal Control Board thought the prior fine could be excessive depending on the incident. Slide #5 Division 5- Keeping of Wild & Dangerous Animals Animals considered wild and dangerous Venomousreptiles, deb nod as lizard and snak4speciesor-_ t�species[hat-are -apable of injecting toxins ttlat may cause pair), igiury, arwor death to t UFFLUns; r t<ro=Mans; urge"nstrcyting sn ekes.meanrng anytleavy-bodied srwke that feeds by coresvIctlon anb VMI;Oh species,sub"ecles,or hybrid may attaln a total body adu9t tenyth reaclung or excaodi rg tan oo)reef], Felines other than the dornestie house eat,and any hybrid of a f2dirre wiEh a domestic house cat; C"M%and wolves, arvd Any 4Ybnd 4f coy4tQ9 and wolves With the dQmiI gtIC dbg: • Sears, Nonhuman primates AMP Pouna+sr + :=LUPGw"rtrwM�rr,r c71.M rrw�cgc.,r.tr..tq Y 23 Slide #6 Bengal 41 Domestic cat African Serval �+fir—Nor ! { Slide #7 Division a- Keeping of Wild & Dangerous Animals — Keep inglowning is prohibited — Exemptions: Teaching or research as permitted by State & Federal law Hybrid feline (F5)or later- accepted as pets r Exemption- animals kept prior to changes & meet legal compliance, provide notice within 90 days ' NGSU-cvM red wolf project F ORANGE COUNTY 24 Slide #8 Division 5- Keeping of Wild & Dangerous Animals -- Violations.- Provide written notification of violation to Deeper • E ee r-submit (72hrs) written plan for animal removal • Provide new location to OCAS • OCAS can impound animal if public danger — Recovery of Cost • Reimburse County for all costs -- Penalties • Criminal summons- misdemeanor • Civil penalty $250, then $500 — 4-185. BOCC can add or remove animals ORANGE COUNTY ,X)FCf]I C_iROLINA Slide #9 4-42 Dngfou dog- injury • Without provccatien has seriously injured , permanently darnaged, or killed a pet or domestic livestock... Serious physical harm animal: Any physical injury that results in broker bones, life threatening injuries, long term hospitalLzatlon, death or euthanasia kNo chanVe In definitlon of serous physical harm to humans --r' ORANGE COUNTY 9 N)R-]I CAROLINA 25 Slide #10 ORANGE COUNTY Why Charge? ANIMAL SERVICES To better Serge Orange County Residents — Protect public safety & resources Outdated or inaccurate language "poisonous" — Clarify definitions and exemptions — Enable effective administration of the ordinance • Animal Services Advisory Board ut mmittee work 2919-202 Voted on and approved by A AB ,dune 15, 2022 ORANGE COUNTY 11. wk1FCf]I C_iROLINA Commissioner Greene asked if Bengal cats are allowed now or not. Sandra Strong said they are allowed, as they are more closely aligned with a domestic housecat. Commissioner Hamilton said she got confused with the three different categories of animals. Martha Bordogna of the County Attorney's Office said that there are two categories because there are wild animals and then wild animals that are also dangerous. Commissioner Hamilton said for consistency it would be useful to include that throughout the subsections. Vice Chair McKee said he has known people over the past 50 years who have adopted fawn that are then non-returnable to the wild. He asked what the alternative would be for people who own deer now. Sandra Strong said she believes that the North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission would step in and she said she would find out for him. Vice Chair McKee said it's a general question and he looks for unanticipated issues or things that might pop up. He said that he does not know anyone now that owns a deer but he has over the years. Sandra Strong said that it is illegal to feed the wild deer in Carrboro. Vice Chair McKee said he will vote for this, he just sees nuances that are not addressed and becomes leery of applying fines to situations that aren't well-defined. Chair Bedford said there was the incident with the snakes a few years back. Sandra Strong said that the committee was working on this ordinance then as well. A motion was made by Commissioner Greene, seconded by Commissioner Fowler, to approve on first reading the recommended changes to the Unified Animal Control Ordinance, and direct staff to present the recommended changes to the Unified Animal Control Ordinance for second reading approval at the Board's February 21, 2023 Business meeting. 26 VOTE: UNANIMOUS c. Amendment to the Code of Ordinances — Emergency Proclamations The Board received on first reading proposed ordinance amendments to Chapter 14 (Emergency Management and Emergency Services) of the Code of Ordinances. BACKGROUND: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Chair of the Board of Commissioners issued an emergency proclamation in order to give greater authority to address the pandemic to the County Manager and County departments. Pursuant to Section 14-39 of the Code of Ordinances, the emergency proclamation was amended multiple times to address the ongoing pandemic. Ultimately the emergency proclamation was continued through those amendments for more than two years. During this time members of the Board of Commissioners expressed concern with the length of the emergency proclamation and the lack of input from the full Board of Commissioners. The attached draft amendment attempts to address this concern, while keeping in place substantial authority for the Chair, by limiting the time period the Chair may independently extend emergency proclamations to thirty (30) days and to clarify that amendments to an emergency proclamation include extensions of the duration. The draft provides that the Board of Commissioners may vote to extend proclamations beyond this time period if the Board is presented with sufficient information and data to do so. It has been the Board of Commissioners' policy that it is necessary for the Chair, or Vice Chair if the Chair is unavailable, to have substantial authority to declare and amend emergency proclamations for events during which the Board of Commissioners may be unable to meet or assemble. The subject chapter of the Code of Ordinances provides for misdemeanor penalties for violations. For that reason the ordinance is subject to a first and second reading prior to adoption. John Roberts reviewed the background information for this item. Vice Chair McKee said he was one of the members pushing for this change and said he is pleased with this proposal. Chair Bedford said she has the opposite view. She said to her, the real source of the problem was that they didn't have a clear determination for when the declaration would be lifted. She said she thinks 30 days is arbitrary. She said they can't predict what types of emergencies there will be in the future and what the timeline should be. She said once they found out they have the power as the Board to direct the Chair to end the Emergency Declaration, that option is sufficient. She said she is concerned that it could become a political issue if it becomes an agenda item each month. She said she thinks the Board shouldn't adopt this at all. Commissioner Richards said her concern was operational. She asked how operations will be affected when there is uncertainty about if the declaration will extend or not. She said the language emphasizes that the Board already has the ability to impact how long it will last. Commissioner Greene said she agrees with Chair Bedford, and had no issues with how it has been done in the past. She said that the Board already has the ability to end the declaration and that she does not see this as necessary. Commissioner Hamilton said she thought there wasn't enough information shared by the Chair about the extension of the State of Emergency. She said she was made aware of the provision that allows the Board to direct the Chair to amend or end. She said that she thinks that is not enough. She said she likes the amendment because it creates an expectation that the Chair will bring the Board information to understand why the decision is being made. She said the rules don't currently have that. She said the Board is held responsible collectively and having a process for the Chair to explain what is going on would be helpful. 27 Commissioner Fowler said it is interesting that they added that any proclamation should end five days later"or extended" and that previously that did not exist. John Roberts said it did exist in the current ordinance but is not specific. He said that the addition of"or extended" is his recommendation to make it clear. Commissioner Fowler said this could be cumbersome. She asked if there could be an update each month instead. Chair Bedford said in the first year, they received a weekly email, and still got updates, just not as frequently thereafter. She said what they really want is criteria for what will end the declaration, which they will not be able to put in writing for an unknown emergency. Vice Chair McKee said politics will be involved in this if it is implemented or not. He said to leave it as is is even more political to him. He said that staff would continue their work until the declaration is ended. He said that what this does for him is codifies the Board's responsibility. He said it does not allow an ad hoc decision by four members. He said it codifies it every 30 days. He said that when it comes to something as serious as the past shut down was, then the Board is required to publicly state their support or lack thereof for the declaration. Commissioner Richards said it seems like the problem was communication and asked if they need an ordinance. Vice Chair McKee said he thinks they do need something because during the pandemic, it wasn't that they couldn't do it, but they did not do it. He said this would make the Board make a public decision. Chair Bedford said the school boards went through this and a lot of people showed up. She said that she does not think if someone had brought it forward that it would not have been on the agenda. A motion was made by Vice Chair McKee, seconded by Commissioner Hamilton, to approve the first reading of the proposed ordinance amendments to Chapter 14 (Emergency Management and Emergency Services) of the Code of Ordinances. VOTE: Ayes, 2 (Vice Chair McKee and Commissioner Hamilton); Nays, 5 (Chair Bedford, Commissioner Greene, Commissioner Richards, and Commissioner Fowler) MOTION FAILS A motion was made by Commissioner Greene, seconded by Commissioner Fowler, to approve addition of the recommended language in 14-40. VOTE: UNANIMOUS John Roberts asked if the Board is looking for additional language that would require reports or if they are done with this. He read his draft language requiring the Chair to provide information to the Board. Chair Bedford asked for the proposed language to be brought back for another first reading at their next meeting. Commissioner Hamilton asked about a time rather than a "reasonable" time. John Roberts said there could be a disruption in communication and that is why he used the language reasonable. Commissioner Greene said she agrees with John Roberts's recommendation. 7. Reports None. 28 8. Consent Agenda Commissioner Richards asked a question about item 8-h. She asked if everything from the Europa Center will move to 203 Main St. when it is finished. Bonnie Hammersley said yes. A motion was made by Commissioner Hamilton, seconded by Vice Chair McKee, to approve the consent agenda. VOTE: UNANIMOUS a. Minutes The Board will correct and/or approve the draft minutes for the December 13, 2022 BOCC Meeting as submitted by the Clerk to the Board. b. Motor Vehicle Property Tax Releases/Refunds The Board will consider adoption of a resolution to release motor vehicle property tax values for four (4) taxpayers with a total of four (4) bills that will result in a reduction of revenue. c. Property Tax Releases/Refunds The Board will consider adoption of a resolution to release property tax values for three (3) taxpayers with a total of three (3) bills that will result in a reduction of revenue. d. Late Applications for Property Tax Exemption/Exclusion The Board will consider four (4) untimely applications for exemption/exclusion from ad valorem taxation for four (4) bills for the 2022 tax year. e. Capacity Building Competitive Grant Mobile Command Trailer Purchase The Board will consider approval of the contract to purchase a mobile command trailer from Mobile Concepts in the amount of$273,756.73. f. Approval of Additional Non-voting Youth Member to Parks and Recreation Council PRC The Board will consider the adoption of a resolution approving changes to the Code of Ordinances to authorize the addition of a second youth delegate non-voting member to the Orange County Parks and Recreation Council (PRC). g. Adoption of Orange County's HOME-ARP Allocation Plan The Board will consider adoption of a resolution authorizing the submission of the HOME-ARP Allocation Plan. h. Two-Year Extension of the Lease for Suite 101 in the Europa Center The Board will consider approval of a two-year lease extension for Suite 101 at the Europa Center and authorizing the Manager to sign the extension upon final review by the County Attorney. i. Proposed Extension to Medline Industries, LP Incentive Performance Agreement Concerning the Company's Employment & Investment Target Dates The Board will consider approving and authorizing the Chair to sign a contract amendment for Medline Industries, LP, formally Medline Industries, Inc., authorizing an extension for the company's contractual requirement to achieve overall employment hiring and investment goals over the first 5 years, as authorized in Section 6. B. (Delay of Inducement Package Initiation) in the October 2019 Performance Agreement. 9. County Manager's Report Bonnie Hammersley reviewed the projected agenda for the February 16, 2023 Work Session including the Oath of Office and Seating for New Member of the Board of Commissioners, the first group of Annual Work Plan Summaries from Boards and Commissions (Second Group Scheduled for March 14, 2023 Work Session), and the Review of Upcoming Boards and Commissions Appointments. 29 Commissioner Richards asked if the Board would receive a list of which boards are presenting their work plans at the work session. Tara May said the list will be part of the agenda packet for the item, which will go out this Thursday. 10. County Attorney's Report John Roberts said the General Assembly bill deadlines are in early April this year. Chair Bedford said the Board will be choosing their board and commission assignments on February 21 st and encouraged members to prepare for the process. 11. *Appointments None. 12. Information Items • January 17, 2023 BOCC Meeting Follow-up Actions List • Tax Collector's Report— Numerical Analysis • Tax Collector's Report— Measure of Enforced Collections • Tax Assessor's Report— Releases/Refunds under$100 13. Closed Session A motion was made by Vice Chair McKee, seconded by Commissioner Fowler, to enter in to closed session at 8:51 p.m. "to discuss the County's position and to instruct the County Manager and County Attorney on the negotiating position regarding the terms of a contract to purchase real property," NCGS § 143-318.11(a)(5), and to approve closed session minutes. VOTE: UNANIMOUS A motion was made by Commissioner Richards, seconded by Commissioner Hamilton, to reconvene into regular session at 9:20 p.m. VOTE: UNANIMOUS 14. Adjournment A motion was made by Commissioner Fowler and seconded by Vice Chair McKee to adjourn the meeting at 9:20 p.m. VOTE: UNANIMOUS Jamezetta Bedford, Chair Recorded by Tara May, Deputy Clerk to the Board Submitted for approval by Laura Jensen, Clerk to the Board.