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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 02-15-2024 - Work Session 1 APPROVED 3119/24 MINUTES ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS WORK SESSION February 15, 2024 7:00 p.m. The Orange County Board of Commissioners met for a Work Session on Thursday, February 15, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. at the Southern Human Services Center in Chapel Hill, NC. COUNTY COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Chair Jamezetta Bedford, Vice-Chair Sally Greene and Commissioners Jean Hamilton, Earl McKee, Phyllis Portie-Ascott, and Anna Richards COUNTY COMMISSIONERS ABSENT: Commissioner Amy Fowler 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 7:00 p.m. All commissioners were present, except for Commissioner Fowler. 1. Boards and Commissions —Annual Work Plan Summaries The Board provided feedback and direction on the first group of boards and commissions' annual work plan summaries with their Chairs (or representatives) in attendance. A second group of boards and commissions' annual work plan summaries is scheduled for the Board's March 12, 2024 work session. BACKGROUND: In the past, as part of the Board of Commissioners' annual planning and goal setting retreats, the Board requested and reviewed/provided feedback on annual plan summaries from the County's internal boards and commissions. This information provided the Board with a yearly overview of the boards and commissions and their projected goals for the upcoming year. This particular process ended in 2007. The Board decided at its April 13, 2010 meeting to reinstate this process independent of the Board's annual retreats. Boards and Commissions Represented at this meeting: Board Name Representative(s) Presenting Human Relations Commission Lynn McGee Orange County Parks and Recreation Council Natalie Ziemba Historic Preservation Commission Art Menius Agricultural Preservation Board Kim Woods Commission for the Environment Regina Baratta Advisory Board on Aging Colin Austin Adult Care Home and Nursing Home CAC Jacqulyn Podger & Shade Little Board of Health Dr. Aparna Jonnal Board of Social Services Jane Garrett Animal Services Advisory Board Dr. Lee Pickett 2 Lynn McGee of the Human Relations Commission (HRC) invited the Board to attend the upcoming Pauli Murray Awards ceremony. She said there has been a lot of turnover on the HRC. She said that it means there are fresh eyes on initiatives. She said they have all completed fair housing training and the state HRC orientation. She said they would like to do more in the community. She said they would like to do more fair housing education in the community. She said they know what they want to do, but the big question is how. She said they recently had a retreat, and they want to focus on groups that are underserved and marginalized. She said they anticipate some issues in the community related to politics and the nationwide discourse. She said they would like the commissioners to consider creating a pressure release valve of sorts for community conflict resolution. She said this could be an emergency hotline or call center and maybe a conflict resolution professional or polling expert could be available. She said the second thing they would like to focus on is identifying roles and responsibilities. She recommended that the commissioners form a subcommittee to look at the advisory board policy and develop standard operating procedures because it would help boards run more efficiently. Commissioner McKee said he was not aware of any political tension in the community. Lynn McGee said it is not just political, it could be related to other issues. Chair Bedford said the community is really enjoying the Pauli Murray mural on the side of the Sportsplex. She said there are emergency plans in place for any issues that may come up at polling locations. Vice-Chair Greene said she has heard of safe space type places in other communities and thinks it is an interesting idea, but she is unsure that a government body should be the one to do it. Commissioner Portie-Ascott asked if the HRC tracks where issues are and if it is mostly housing or are there other areas. Lynn McGee said it is in communities and they have a subcommittee to deep dive to try to identify the needs. She said that housing is close to their heart, so they address those first and foremost. She said fair housing is a big part of their mission. She said that there may be other issues that come up and they are trying to identify if it is just housing or if there are others. Commissioner Richards said she is interested in standard operating procedures. She said she thinks the turnover and the operating policy is important to focus on so that when new volunteers come on board, they will know what to expect. Lynn McGee said it could be beneficial for everyone and she would be available to help if needed. Natalie Ziemba, chair of the Orange County Parks and Recreation Council, said the primary purpose of the council is to be the main advisory board for the Department of Environmental, Agriculture, Parks, and Recreation. She said they also review outside funding requests for any program related to recreational programs offered by the county. She said they are co-sponsoring the Nature of Orange photography contest. She said 2023 was the Year of the Trail. She said the council sponsored hikes in recognition. She said they participated in the Perry Hills minipark design process and got involved with the community. She said members participated in the 2050 Land Use Planning for Orange County. She said they are in the process of reviewing the Master Plan and that is a mid-way review that will assess how we are doing. She said that post pandemic has changed how parks are used and how people gather. She said that they are also incorporating diversity equity and inclusion. She said that when the plan was adopted, there was interest in a community swimming pool, but key details are missing. She asked if it was an urgent request. She said that there was a lot of room for collaboration and partnership, so they are exploring ways to work with the towns to utilize recreational spaces. She said they are developing a disc golf course. She said there has been a huge increase in interest in pickleball and they are exploring a way to accommodate the interest and increase availability. She said they are considering partnering with the Friends of the Library to do a storybook trail through Orange County. She said that the Central Recreation center is doing a fabulous job with 3 what they have but cannot keep up with demand. She said the council supports looking at future growth of the recreation program, not just renovating Central Recreation center. Vice-Chair Greene said she loved the pollinator garden plan. She said that the Master Gardener program with the Extension Agency would be a great partner. Chair Bedford said that the CIP plan includes a new gym, not just a renovation, and that it might be a decade before it is implemented. Art Menius of the Historic Preservation Commission said they completed getting the Ridge Road School on the National Register of Historic Places. He said getting it permanently dedicated as a landmark is a big step. He said Harvey's AME Church and cemetery are also on their list. He explained that the cemetery is out in the middle of the woods with no roads to it and the simple explanation is the reality of systemic racism. He said that in the 1920s governments took on the maintenance of roads and a road used mostly by Black communities would not have gotten the same maintenance attention. He said they are almost at the end of the architectural history book. He said the book will become a reality soon. He said that UNC Press will market and distribute the book. He said that they are looking at threatened and abandoned cemeteries and graves as part of their future projects. He said this is a problem countywide. He said that they will collaborate with the Planning staff to identify burial grounds in the development review process. He said that this is an area that does not have a lot of archeology scholarships around it. He said there is a very large burial ground for Hardscrabble Plantation and that there are 100s of grave sites. He said that land has been marked off to be permanently reserved and treated with respect. He said they are interested in a grant project to help preserve cemeteries like this as well as old log cabins and buildings, both of which are usually located on private property. He said it will be the 2501" anniversary of the American Revolution and they are participating in statewide efforts. He said they are continuing to discuss the best approach for future historical markers. He said that digital markers could be a better use of resources. Vice-Chair Greene said she is interested in the historical marker program. She has heard it described as an all-digital program and a marker program. She said that the markers are the number one priority. Art Menius said that having the book done will help the commission focus on the historical marker program. Commissioner McKee said he appreciated the comment about log buildings disappearing in the community. He said he had three log tobacco barns on his property that were built with pegs. He said they are difficult to maintain due to age. Art Menius said if they can get a program together to help property owners maintain log buildings, it would be a step forward in maintaining the rural character of Orange County. He said a takeaway from the architectural survey is how poor Orange County was, outside of Chapel Hill. Commissioner Hamilton said thank you for paying attention to Black burial grounds. She said she also supports getting outside funding, if possible, to help. Kim Woods, Chair of the Agricultural Preservation Board (APB), said that in 2023 the APB reviewed and recommended approval for nine additional farms as Voluntary Agricultural District and Enhanced Voluntary Agricultural District farms and adding 262 acres to these programs after being approved by the BOCC. She said that this increased the total enrollment in both programs to 17,433 acres on 151 farms throughout the County (14,719 in VAD and 2,714 in EVAD). She said the comprehensive land use plan will give them an important opportunity to incorporate agricultural preservation goals. She said the APB hopes to see the BOCC make an active commitment to keep farming a viable way to make a living. Commissioner Portie-Ascott asked what kinds of permanent protections they might recommend. Kim Woods said they are still doing research on what other states have done and will report back to the Board. 4 Commissioner Portie-Ascott asked how the VAD program benefits farmers. Kim Woods said it is a pride in agriculture program by showing a sign and people can see that. She said that it can also potentially protect the farm owner from nuisance issues in the future. Regina Baratta of the Commission for the Environment reviewed some of their biggest accomplishments in the previous year: • Provided ranking and comments to the BOCC for four cycles of the Climate Action Fund program. • Reviewed and submitted recommendations for the two cycles of Climate Action Tax Grant application for Chapel Hill-Carrboro Schools • Reviewed and provided recommendations for the Orange County Climate Action Plan • Created a draft No Net Loss Canopy Policy for Orange County Government • currently under staff review • Reviewed and submitted recommendation for Piedmont Wildlife Center Outside Agency Funding Request Application She said that they perform the following tasks: • Co-sponsor"Nature of Orange" Photography Contest • Liaison to Intergovernmental Parks Work Group • Review and comment on environmental issues • Identify priorities for the Lands Legacy Action Plan • Conduct special studies pertaining to Orange County environment • Conduct environmental education outreach She said that they plan to do the following in the next year: • Provide support to Climate Action Plan implementation • The CFE will review and rank grant applications for the fifth cycle of the County Climate Action Grant • Engage with the right of way task force • Involvement with the development of the update Land Use Plan • Progression on no net loss tree canopy retention • Introduction of an Invasive Species Management Policy • Advocate for the incorporation of the Eno-New Hope Landscape Connectivity Report in future county documents and plans • Continue to support the Upper Neuse River Basin Association and their approach to solving water quality issues in the Falls Lake Watershed The CFE will work with staff to develop a Greene Tract "Headwaters Preserve" She said they would like to revisit the scoring criteria for the climate action plan grant. She said the commission would like to review and comment on county rezoning requests. She said they would like to monitor federal regulations and enforcement for PFAS. She said they would like to continue to address equity and inclusion across all plans. She said they will have several new members and they have created an orientation sheet to explain what the commission does. She said that may be helpful for other advisory boards. Chair Bedford requested that Regina Baratta send the orientation sheet to Deputy Clerk to the Board Tara May. Vice-Chair Greene said the state of the environment report should be updated in 2024. She said the update probably isn't going to happen this year, but it's a valuable document. She said that she hopes that the commission will update that in the future. Regina Baratta said that the plan is to update the document in 2025 using data from the land use plan and climate action plan. Commissioner Richards said that as the county adopts its strategic plan, it will be helpful for all advisory boards and commissions to align future activities with the objectives in the strategic plan. 5 Chair Bedford invited the commission to make suggestions for the scoring rubric and send it to the County Manager's Office. Colin Austin of the Advisory Board on Aging said the board is continuing to work on the Master Aging Plan and he is interested in how their work will connect with and support the county's strategic plan. He said the work at the senior centers is amazing. He said that Project EngAGE recently completed its first session since the pandemic began. He said that many older adults are isolated in the community and the Advisory Board on Aging would like to improve transportation issues. Chair Bedford said that at the next meeting the Board would have the opportunity to approve three new vans, and this will help in getting seniors directly from point A to point B. She said the county's Master Aging Plan was used as a model for what the commissioners wanted to see in the strategic plan. Colin Austin said there is nothing else like it in the state. Jacqulyn Podger and Shade Little of the Adult Care Home and Nursing Home CAC presented jointly to the Board. Jacqulyn Podger said they are in their second quarter of the merged committees. She said that they have rich discussions and have come together as a group. She said that they hope to have as many as 14 members soon. She said they act as the eyes and ears by visiting the facilities. Shade Little said they are the group that reaches out to the nursing homes and assisted living centers in the community. He said that they want to be more involved with the nursing homes, such as creating gardens and buying holiday gifts for seniors. Commissioner Hamilton thanked them for their work. She asked if the training bottleneck at the state has been resolved. Jacqulyn Podger said yes and that was another success of 2023. Commissioner Hamilton asked if the reports they make are public. Jacqulyn Podger said that they are. Tara May said she would send that information to all of the commissioners. Chair Bedford said that they are considering an amendment to the term requirements for the boards so that they can have some continuity in the committee. Dr. Aparna Jonnal of the Board of Health said they accomplished several items in 2023. She said they adopted T21, which is legislation limiting tobacco to anyone under 21. She said that in September 2023 the NC Local Health Department Accreditation Board awarded the Orange County Board reaccreditation with honors. She said the Orange County Health Department was awarded the Child Health and Local Health Department award and the Dr. Sara Mayer Award for best Health Department of the year for the Gateway Village project. She said they received a joint grant to wo reduce inequities in modern maternity care. She said they are looking forward to the dispatch of the mobile dental clinic and completion of the community health assessment. She said that the expansion of Medicaid may result in needing more providers in the community. She said that one of her projects is looking into the data to determine what healthy screen usage is for kids because children's mental health is declining, and it is almost to the point of an epidemic. Chair Bedford said that people do not have to have Medicaid or Medicare to use the public health department. Commissioner Portie-Ascott asked how the Board of Health will get information about screen usage out to the community. Aparna Jonnal said the first step is to understand what the data is telling us, and then to understand what is happening in Orange County, and then what means to start to establish healthy guidelines for schools and public places. Jane Garrett of the Board of Social Services said they served an average of 5,933 families per month in food and nutrition services and 2186 per month in Medicaid. She said they are 6 working on a recruitment strategy to increase the number of licensed foster homes in Orange County. She said that in 2019 there were 83 licensed foster homes and in 2024 there are 53. She said that staff will continue to work on retention strategies to hire, train, and retain qualified staff. She said that Medicaid expansion has significantly impacted staff and they are making sure that everyone has the opportunity to apply for coverage. Commissioner Portie-Ascott asked what she thinks is contributing to the drop in foster families. Lindsey Shewmaker, Human Services Manager for DSS, said that the numbers dropped during COVID and did not come back when restrictions eased up. She said that many foster families "foster to adopt" and do not come back in the program. Commissioner Portie-Ascott asked how Orange County compares to other counties. Lindsey Shewmaker said she does not know exactly but she knows that there are difficulties in every county. Commissioner Portie-Ascott asked what underserved community is lacking in getting signed up for Medicaid. Lindsey Shewmaker said that the state has a dashboard that shows the demographics of who is signing up for Medicaid. She said there are age and racial demographics that they are tracking and would like to see those numbers after another month and then start target outreach where gaps are showing. Commissioner Hamilton asked what kinds of targeted outreach they plan to do. Lindsey Shewmaker said they are working with their community partners, and they can also map who is in the system and that allows them to see who they are serving and where. She said there are now 400 pending applications, and they can start to refocus on targeting gaps. Commissioner Hamilton asked what kinds of tools they might use to reach those populations. Lindsey Shewmaker said it depends on the community. She said they would explore ways to reach various communities as numbers show more. Commissioner Hamilton said that Carrboro is having an event on February 24t" Commissioner Richards gave Lindsey Shewmaker handouts from the recent NACo conference she attended. Lee Pickett of the Animal Services Advisory Board noted an item from their report in the agenda packet about the Pat Sanford Grant. She said that the grant went to the Partnership to End Homelessness and to the street outreach harm reduction and deflection team. She said the funds went to pay for food and other needs for pets of homeless neighbors. She said that in the United States, 10-15% of the people who are homeless have a pet. She said that people who are homeless and have pets do better than people who do not. She said people who have pets are less likely to use alcohol or illegal drugs or engage in risky behaviors that might result in them being separated from their pet. She said that homeless youth with pets are three times less likely to be depressed. She said people who are homeless and have dogs are less likely to be assaulted. She said that the grant supports the needs of homeless people and their pets in a creative way. She thanked all of the Orange County volunteers who do so much for the community. She said that members of the Animal Services Advisory Board volunteer for the Animal Services Hearing Panel, do pro bono veterinary work, teach dog training techniques to shelter volunteers, assist in advertising animals who are available for adoption, and serve on the affordable housing task force. Chair Bedford asked if Orange County experienced any dog flu issues the way Wake County recently did. Lee Pickett said that the practices at the Orange County shelter likely contributed to avoiding the illness. Sandra Strong, the Animal Services Director, echoed those comments and said that the newer age of the facility may have also contributed to avoiding a dog flu outbreak. 2. Consultant Briefing on Orange County Land Use Plan 2050 The Board received a briefing from Clarion Associates, LLC, on the Land Use Plan 2050 for discussion and feedback. BACKGROUND: At its January 16, 2024 Business meeting, the BOCC received an information item with a short briefing from Planning staff and Clarion Associates. At the Board's last work session in November 2023, the consultant presented preliminary outcomes of the first community workshop; an overview of additional opportunities for the public to provide input during Community Engagement Window-1; progress on the technical analysis and Community Policy Profile; and next steps. Following is a link to the agenda materials from this meeting: http://server3.co.orange.nc.us:8088/WebLink/0/doc/71190/Page1.aspx The February 15, 2024 presentation will be the Board's second from Clarion and will include, among other items, a review of community engagement outcomes to date and project deliverables. Additional information is provided in Attachment A (referenced deliverables also attached for convenience). Cy Stober, Planning and Inspections Director, introduced the item and the presenters Leigh Anne King, of Clarion Associates, and Antwain Goode and Andrea Goode of Tate Consulting. He also introduced Emily Gvino of Clarion Associates. Leigh Anne King made the following the presentation: Slide #1 :3 1�s ee i`. • �4 CLARION 8 Slide #2 r Project Progress Community Engagement Window #1 Engagement Events Preliminary Outcomes 1� a Project Deliverables Community Policy Profile --`� Stakeholder Interview Summary Report Fact Book • Next Steps Slide#3 , u .E - 9 Slide#4 Project . Progress , . _ Phase L Phase 2: Phase 5: Launch Identify New Evaluate De elop the Adopt the Project Issues and Planning Plan Plan Opportunities 15 Zull 1 za a-s s-za zt-ze Slide#5 Report Work that has been completed: DEI Engagement Database Stakeholder Survey and Summary Report Current Policy Profile Community Engagement Window #1 (workshop, meetings, online activities) Briefing to the Planning Board (February 71h) Work that is underway: Preparing data/trends Fact Book Preparing New issues and Opportunities Report 10 Emily Gvino continued the presentation: Slide #6 fr' P;e Slide #7 Community : . • - Window Completed CEW#1 Activities: ✓ October 2023 Public Workshop ✓ January 2024 Additional F , I Community Meetings (]an. 19 ? r� and 20) 9 ✓ Orange County Road Show (Jan. 31 and Feb. 1) ir µ ✓ Online activities available (October 26-February 1) 11 Andrea Goode continued the presentation: Slide #8 Publicity and Outreach Efforts , • Equity Database • Compiles contacts of DEI organizations and nonprofits and businesses owned by - BIPOC/minorities, women, and veterans in Orange County . - _ 0 • Email notice to 70+ organizations in the Equity Database • Direct outreach with 100+ contacts from i .:, Equity Database by Tate Consulting • Project website collected email addresses; contacts received regular updates o .Q •, :, Slide#9 Community Engagement Window #1 Publicity and Outreach Efforts (cont.) • Social media flyers in English and Spanish • Weekly Orange County Newsletter • Planning and Inspections Department Monthly Newsletter p p • Email notices to County stakeholder advisory boards • Banner on County's main homepage '•°""�•"•�" o ' • Project website linked from the Planning and Inspections Department homepage . • On television monitors throughout County facilities • Yard signs posted outside County offices • Project website and logo added to County staff p o email signature s 12 Antwain Goode continued the presentation: Slide #10 Public Workshop October 26, 2023 ;— • Spanish interpreter services i 4 ems• i. were available • Held at Bonnie B.Davis � k ~�-� f•< .` Environment&Agricultural Center • Presentation with overview of project - 6 - • Collected feedback from participants at four stations by planning topic Slide #11 Community Engagement W . . { } Community Meetings January 19 and 20, 2024 - Spanish interpreter services were available -` Held at Cedar Grove Community Center and Southern Human ..nF- Services Center Presentation with overview of 's project and collected feedback �- using the same questions as workshop Provided snacks and a$10 Food Lion gift card to the first 2S participants at each meeting as m advertised to Equity Database contacts 13 Emily Gvino resumed the presentation: Slide #12 p, Community • - - Window Approximate • Total of 164 surveys received M. 'Numberof tten • At least 146 surveys were received at in- dees person meetings October2023 27 30+ Bonnie B.Davis LA—) January 19,2024 = Cedar Grove Community 67 70+ Center January 20,2024 Southern Human Services 49 50+ Center January 31 and February 1,2024 3 40 Orange County Road Show Online surveys 14 -- Total 164 190 Slide #13 EngagementObjectives ( ) The three objectives of Community Engagement Window#1 included: 0 Engagement Satisfaction © Representative Engagement © Increased Engagement 14 Slide#14 Engagement Objectives Engagement Satisfaction Were you comfortable sharing your input today? Will you participate in future events? 1.7/ 6.7% 107% •127 out of 164 total m participants submitted ■Yes ■No Other ■Yes ■No Maybe voluntary,self-reported exit questionnaires. 119 responses 122 responses Slide #15 Engagement Objectives aRepresentative Engagement • Age • Race/Ethnicity • Location of Residence • Renter/Homeowner 15 Slide #16 Engagement Objectives Representative Engagement YY Age No answer 0 2 36% 15 65 or over .40% 46.46% i2% 55-64 years 13.39% 45-54 years JJMJMJJMLl�50% 35.44 ears 11.50% y 15.75% 25-34 years 12% 15-24 years � 1740% 1.57% '127 out of 164 total participants submitted 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% voluntary,self-reported exit questionnaires. ■Orange County(2022 Census Data)** ■Exit Questionnaire Responses' Slide#17 Engagement Objectives © Representative Engagement Race Other Two or More Races White/Caucasian 60.1% American Indian/Alaska Native 107% aa% Black/African American 109% 102% Asian 1 06% 7.8% '127 out of 164 total m participants submitted 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% voluntary,self-reported exit ■Orange County(2022 Census Data) ■Exit Questionnaire Responses' questionnaires. 16 Slide#18 Engagement Objectives Representative Engagement Hispanic/Latino Yes IM 8,70% 2.36% No 91.30% 84.31% No response/prefer not to answer 0 - 17.32% •127 out of 164 total participants submitted 0% 10% 20'% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% voluntary,self-reported exit Orange County(2022 Census Data) ■Exit Questionnaire Responses" questionnaires. Slide#19 ObjectivesEngagement Representative Engagement Unincorporated Orange County 36.7% 48.2% ■ Chapel Hill 39.9% 20.s% Carrboro 14.2% 3.6% Hillsborough 6.7% 18.8% 1 Mebane 2.5% 2.7% Durham 0.1% NA Other NA 6.3% '127 out of 164 total participants submitted voluntary,self-reported exit questionnaires. 17 Slide#20 Engagement Objectives © Representative Engagement Tell us about your connection to Orange County.[Please • According to the check all that apply_] Census, 67.2% of households in Irentahome ■3.0% Orange County own their homes Regional interestlstaXeholder 4.2% and 3Z.8% are other 8.5% renters. I warp at a local business 8.5% I own a local 4usiness 8,5% l owo a ho" 0% 10% 20% 30% d0% 5014 60% 70% 801A Slide#21 n Engagement Objectives 4, Increased Engagement Benchmark: The Orange County Climate Action Plan �� Climate Action Plan tt Community 510 completed surveys 164 complete surveys for Community Engagement Survey Window#1 Stakeholder Interviews:57 participants Draft CAP Symposium: 12 attendees October Workshop: 27 attendees In Person/Live January 19 Cedar Grove Meeting:70+ Engagement Online Focus Groups:40 participants total January 20 Southern Human Services Meeting:50+ January 31 and February 1 Orange County Road Show:40+ 18 Slide #22 Engagement Objectives 7T • Takeaways for Community Engagement Window#2 • Engagement satisfaction:continue to offer online options and creative,fun, and accessible options • Representative engagement:Create partnerships/connections and tailor outreach efforts to increase representative participation (Hispanic/Latino and Asian community members,youth, renters,and Chapel Hill/Carrboro residents) • Increased engagement:Continue to increase overall engagement numbers, including online engagement Vice-Chair Greene said that the time of the day that the community engagement session took place in Chapel Hill skewed the turnout of who could attend. She suggested having sessions at night when working people could attend. Emily Gvino said that they have heard that feedback and will incorporate it into future sessions. Commissioner Richards asked if Clarion Associates would increase the in-person opportunities since there has been more engagement during in-person activities. Emily Gvino said they are trying to increase the online engagement to capture youth feedback. Commissioner Richards asked if Clarion used TikTok, Instagram, and Twitter. Emily Gvino said yes, and that they work with the county's Planning Department and Community Relations Department to get information out on the various social media platforms. Vice-Chair Greene said the in-person meetings were a richer experience. Commissioner Portie-Ascott asked if there were attendees who went to both sessions, or if there are people who filled out surveys twice, or if there are people who went to an in-person session and filled out a survey online. Emily Gvino said the last question was harder to answer because they did not have a way to determine that. She said they have a way to prevent people from filling out the online survey multiple times. She said there were probably a few people who went to more than one in-person meeting. Commissioner Hamilton said someone in the community told her that they had gotten stuck filling out the online survey and had abandoned it. She asked Clarion to review their interface to see if there are any improvements they could make. Emily Gvino said she would look into it. She explained how the online survey was structured. 19 Slide#23 Community / /ement Window #1 Outcomes Questions were organized into four categories: Regional and Local Growth • Diverse People and Communities • Economy,Jobs,and Commuting Natural Assets • Online, four short surveys were offered to encourage participation as time and interest allowed Slide#24 CEW#1 Outcomes: Regional . Local Growth • Responses emphasized Are you concerned about rising costs of housing?If so, concern about the rising what are your biggest concerns related to costs of housing?[Please checkyour top three choices.] costs of housing • The majority of"Other" I am not concerned about rising home prices —22 responses noted that while the participant themselves Other 25 could afford housing,they were worried about low- Unable to afford rental payment 25 income residents being Increasing rental payments 37 pushed out and critical workers who cannot afford Unable to afford topurhaseahome(d—payment, 49 to live in Orange County. monthly payments,or—rail sales pr',ne) Paying my property taxes 65 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 20 Slide#25 RegionalCEW#1 Outcomes: . Local Growth In 2050,what should be Orange County's identity in the region?[Please check your top three choices.] Other 5 Good place to retire 16 Healthcare hub 17 Growing,diversifying economy with new employment options 35 Vibrant and welcoming community with diverse amenities and multicultural.. 54 Walk-and bike-friendly community that prioritizes public transit and does not,.. 64 Safe,family-oriented,with excellent schools 1 65 Well-known for local farms and agritourism(such as farm stands and breweries) 73 Well-preserved forests,rivers,and other natural spaces 94 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 b0 90 100 Slide #26 CEW#1 Outcomes: Regional . Local Growth What are the key issues related to local and regional growth that should be addressed in this plan?[Please check your top three choices.] Other ' 13 Need more large employers to compete with other counties in the region i 19 Need more housing choices - 25 Property taxes are too high 32 Need morejob opportunities in Orange county 33 Need to maintain a small-town feel with population growth 45 Traffic is getting worse and commutes are getting longer 50 Need more affordable housing nearjob opportunities 55 New development could impact our natural environment 71 Sustainable development to mifigate the impacts of climate change(flooding,... $Q 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 00 90 21 Slide#27 Outcomes: Diverse People and Communities What do you like the most about Orange County? Responses emphasized [Please check your top three choices.) how much the natural environment is valued in )obnppodunitie ■ 5 Orange County other 9 Historical and cultural roots 31 It's a great place to raise a family 32 T he people -42 Opportunities far recreation(such as parks and trails) so safe community 54 The natural environment 89 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 Slide #28 131 CEW#1 Outcomes: Diverse People and Communities What will keep you and/or your family In Orange County over • Participants the next 25 years?[Please check your top three choices.] noted that i don't need anything else - affordability is a key factor in More job opportunities lz staying In Orange Better access to high quality internet service 29 County for the Better access to recreation and the outdoors 38 next 25 years (Housing,transportation, Continued high quality public education az healthcare,etc.) More affordable housing options 44 General lifestyle affordability(housing costs, transportation costs,healthcare costs,and local taxes) 50 More safe and affordable ways to travel to places(biking, 57 walking,or riding a bus/public transit) 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 22 Slide#29 CEW#1 Outcomes: 7T Economy, jobs, and Commuting How should Orange County support workers and the Responses development of new jobs through land use policy?[Please check emphasized small your top three choices.] business development and Other 5 Orange County not be supporting the development . 3 increasing ofy s new jobs transportation Remove regulatory barriers to new businesses in Orange — C—nty options for Plan for new employment uses{manufacturing,production, ' 25 employment et" support small businesses through broadband evpanswn 40 Provide more workforce housing 43 Increase safe,affordable,and efficient transportation options 50 for—leers to get to jab training and jobs Support entrepreneurship and small business development 62 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 Slide #30 CEW#1 Outcomes: 7T . Economy, jobs, and Commuting What types of new employment development do you support in unincorporated Orange County?[Please check your top three choices.] Renewable energy production 59 Research and development 58 Manufacturing and produdian 29 Retaillcommerbal IS Warehousing and logistics 17 Other _ 12 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 so 23 Slide #31 CEW#1 Outcomes: Natural Assets What do you think are our most important environmental • Responses emphasized needs in the future? keeping a clean water [Please check your top three choices.] supply, protecting other �s agricultural/working lands and healthy soils, Pratert—mmnnldes andprnperties from i'll,j 14 and combating climate Ensured—air fnrresidents 38 change Provide new recreational options,such as greenways, trails,and parks �38 • Participants expressed Combat climate change(such as by reducing emissions)concern for all climate- 58 related hazards,such as Protect agricultural/working lands and healthy soils 65 heat, drought, wildfire, Ensure water sources are clean 87 flooding, storms, etc. 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 Slide #32 Assets• Natural What do you think is the most important benefits of protecting the County's agricultural and working lands?[Please check your top three choices.] Other 1 1 I don't think it's necessary for agricultural land to he protected in Orange 6 County Local textile and other agricultural product options 4 Agriculture-based tourism(Agritourism) 19 Preservation of the environment from development 46 Preservation of prime/healthy soils for future agricukural use 60 Local.healthy food options 60 Preservation of the loalagricultural economy andjohs 65 0 10 M 30 40 50 60 70 24 Slide #33 R�• F• CEW#1 Outcomes'. Takeaways • Across all questions, participants brought up concerns about growth and sustainable development and maintaining Orange County's natural assets • Participants highly value the natural environment of Orange County and want to see protections for air,water,and soil quality • Affordability(especially for housing) is a major concern,especially the impacts of Orange County workers needing to live elsewhere and commute in • Concern about the impacts of climate change and want to see climate action • Some interest in seeing growth in local employment opportunities • Policy guidance will need to balance these land use needs and carefully weigh tradeoffs for competing priorities Leigh Anne King continued the presentation: Slide #34 P� Inputs from • Statistically significant survey that informed Strategic Plan • 604 surveys completed Orange Courty,North ' Intent to leverage findings for 2050 Land Use Plan • Conducted by Berry Dunn/ETC Institute and presented to the BOCC during September 12, 2023 work session 25 Slide#35 Inputs • Q1.Most cri0cai roles for the County government in the next 10 to 20 years =Direct Land Use Plan implication ,Wx[h..� (including nexus with transportation) MponMy.x.gHymtllmmclrnpe _M% can."nl..Nlm..y+.n.«Mm u.xrulc E.a Slide #36 Inputs • Strategic Q,3.Reasons residents choose to live in Orange County: sr a.•..•r.n.l�.w°.x.Ms f��ny+...rrn°n.cwk b..edy xeen.E[Knh..rew�E« x ww klxiNud um.mrm.Em.ra,a MtE.Mrx.l.a..mru.rnx,l.rn.xwn ux Eu•ix�ot pwil..a�.w.s�ww,w..i., fs% owrr[v oleic 0.°Wx waelw.M. rhyixr. u xxl ,m6..L.wrsi pea.. [[xcm.euxn ErvWwmn[oppon nnln x lx x.uexGu�gquf.nlpeylullat«fa prrt. 26 Slide#37 Inputs from i 44.Biggest influences on the decision to stay in the county over the next fire years u,..ew.�wrR mow. rmc ..ate. r«Ri iu reee a cost m arm x�• [b..insaa..m•Vknoot se+ wus,neoa.o.s int o.ae,wR 1.w.—w.v,unir.� Rx�.nw wwm..wNa.iMR r.,v^�. ow iu. w. mn Slide#38 Inputs from f 48.What is your level of satisfaction with the availability of affordable housing in the County? .......... somewlut aueu,lkd 3� 31M l 1_ 1em.xhrte.d,R.d v..ya...re..e lslf Vwy.+lePN ifl 27 Slide#39 Inputs • m Strategic Plan Survey Q11.Top local government services to be prioritized n r o.rc•w..r.rv.�a.,n wnAr.rte.d tn.n.r..n a..i ww roe,I:...r..M1., �Mad.Lle Iw�unY 11% wi.lfi.tn! t vH•L rLgmoM rwoe ni w, A4le E•wrervrrnrW stlw.xW racn�mbp.uan l6% A% law.r�n.m.w lnlvMl'vin'Hr.n ifM mmrnc ee.ai reE ..e�NHN ewm wocr.rr.ns - erig can.rru,nr.Im vrwv Ha.w.. � u% . Frea..nn.iY�' cx ' ■INptM.e :xM matt�la.MHe�Hmmare Lhchebe Slide#40 Inputs • Strategic Q17.Rated Future Priorities of the County vrtl.bm,.wlr.L%.....mv.wlw n•nr.l n..al�.rW s.%31x]'!f6 4% 1T.r �WtlurirYsvbsl tlar.e usetl wrtlrc AH4 Isw rwlarr%eeuW tl..crex ry M1anniS n,u m ii Mdsat �^Ircre.sng.umForc+s� tl%3M h�•n n,wLl...lr,,. e [ambmrs rEmn.chrnp,� 7g1g tip errngupp�n�nnle,Iw r nre.nar 6 eW[�. m ngnm-inPOeoiow„O�ewbP^�e t xl!>< tlY. IOY. wF4 6o]e SOgE �verrimwunt �moa[enr werial kNeo lmponAnl rrvo�Hl an,p+snr 28 Slide#41 Inputs from ■ Q23 Types of development/growth wished to be seen in Orange County:..-, a o Ma�km im al,r..,aoM.Ia�ma el Rmlir Mrma A}� slr%I.t.mlh rNdmn.l rd.,%innww dnlneNn 31R IptvlRYn % 1Ai]el.miX rrvidrmi.l xi% lammm S rnrratlen % 0.r+mro•m omNN xsx uexnrwvr ux dM1e�hrNschuYd� t]x ' Wt<caomalehrns q ]% ,a ao% w,. _�a ec 3wa..ma Slide#42 Inputs • Strategic 025.Current zoning regulations/restrictions that are in place to protect public health,safety,and welfare;preserve agricultural land;conserve natural resources and promote orderly development are: %w svin.rowh_' 3a% I TmsMln 191E 29 Slide#43 Inputs from ■ Q26.How important is increasing alternative modes of transportation(i.e., bus,ride sharing services,biking,walking,train(to the future of the County? Lypeenup orrnpenCenu{e•�NN{"ro.valMa'k lwnewlM rnnwLn� I M 1.m .re rwx ifuM ]Ht Slide#44 Inputs from / f Q30.Should the County be concerned about protecting open space? ey yer.ne.p or rnvaa.inr px.ueIr "w..—.d'I y4 ett hw'eR.m� 30 Slide#45 What Does this Tell Us.? Watershed protection Agricultural preservation Addressing climate change and Enha"cernent Protection SUSTAINABLE • Access to services DEVELOP ENT Affordable housing fEc business development Progesskopv Job creation Wealth generation Commissioner Richards asked for clarification of slide #45. Leigh Anne King said that sustainable development is a three-legged stool. She said that the red Xs mark where things do not fit together easily. She said that they would work with the Board to decide trade-offs. Slide #46 Urban Sprawl versus Smart Growth LIP ■ 1 ■ 1 1 lip e) •r . tN .06 9* Ir o ei ■ 0cp I y 3 2 t-11 r" Y Leigh Anne King said that "urban sprawl" could be described differently by different communities. She showed pictures in slide #46 of what sprawl could look like. 31 Slide#47 GrowthSmart _ •le Development 7T 4fth� (:*7AL .a I Infrastructure r',r�✓4 : v L . YTransportation 4-�,V ✓ DevelopmentHe alth Environment Economy 44 .004 Slide#48 Urban • Growth7T 1. Mix land uses. 6. Preserve open space, farmland, natural Z. Take advantage of compact building beauty,and critical environmental areas. design. 7. Strengthen and direct development 3. Create a range of housing opportunities towards existing communities. and choices. 8_ Provide a variety of transportation choices. 4. Create walkable neighborhoods. 9. Make development decisions predictable, 5. Foster distinctive, attractive communities fair, and cost effective, with a strong sense of place. 10. Encourage community and stakeholder collaboration in development decisions. Community Engagement#2 offers an opportunity to interpret smart growth and urban sprawl for Orange County. Source:EPA,"About Smart Growth," htt p,:ll www.ep a.gov/s martg rowth/a6 out-smart-g mwth Chair Bedford asked about the tradeoff when dealing with density and zoning regulations to protect farmland and environmental impacts. She asked if there are ways to measure the tradeoffs. Leigh Anne King said that is something that they can investigate. She said that they will provide a scorecard for each scenario so that they can compare them. Chair Bedford asked how planners have changed their definitions of sprawl and density in modern times. Leigh Anne King said that smart growth and terms like that have been around since the 90's and are still used. 32 Commissioner Hamilton referred to slide#46, that showed a planned community that kept open space while achieving density. She said that there is a tension of being in an urban area that does not have open space. She said they also must keep in mind the diversity of people's preferences. She said it really makes the conversation about smart growth and urban sprawl very complex. Cy Stober said that can be part of the comprehensive land use planning because they can add Orange County's definition of modern urban sprawl. He said that could be a critical part of the plan. He said it can be added by a deeper dive and be available in the spring and summer so the commissioners can discuss. Vice-Chair Greene asked how they would get input from the municipalities. Cy Stober said they have already surveyed the planning directors. He said that they could reach back out to the managers or the planning directors to have the conversation but if you look at the activity nodes in the county, they have not been developed. He said that most people are still coming to the urban centers because the land use plan has not been fulfilled. Vice-Chair Greene said that all the commissioners were interviewed as stakeholders in the process. She said that municipal elected officials are also stakeholders and asked that they be included. Commissioner Richards explained her confusion with the transitions between slides 45 and 46. She said that there is a challenge shown and then the next slide is straight to smart growth without dealing with the stuff the red x's were shown on. She said that the answers were given without a conversation about how to answer those challenges. She said they have competing needs which must be addressed. She said it is telling of the dichotomies. She asked how the nodes will be developed when people have moved to a location for the existing environment. Commissioner McKee asked at what point the changes in current regulations come into this. He said that he has experienced a business in one of the nodes that was almost impossible to rebuild due to regulations. He said that it was no fault of the owner, but they had to rebuild or abandon, and the regulations made it almost impossible. He said that he understands the attractiveness but noted the denser developments would require sewer and water. Vice-Chair Greene said she thought that smart growth would occur in municipalities and that this type of development would not occur in the rural areas. Leigh Anne King said that it is the industry expectation. Vice-Chair Greene said that she was not saying that this would be done in rural Orange County. Commissioner McKee said that still creates a problem. He said that if you have a piece of property on any of the major thoroughfares or are close enough to get infrastructure it creates a two-tier property value system and that is an inequity in itself. Vice-Chair Greene said that Orange County has demonstrated that they value preserving farmland. Commissioner McKee said that his point is that there is always a cost. He said that one cost of the direction Orange County has been in a long time is that they are losing lower and moderate-income people, and he does not know how to address it. He wants to be careful not to price out lower and moderate-income people. 33 Slide#49 ProjectDefiverables Slide #50 CommunityPolicy Profile ORANGE COUNW LAND USE PLAN 20SO • Synthesizes the policy guidance included in relevant County plans • Organized to provide a concise summary of policy guidance provided by planning topic • Serves as the baseline of County policies for developing the new plan's policies • Available on the website under Resources 34 Slide#51 Community Policy ' Reports Land Use,Development,and Infrastructure One Orange County Racial Equity Plan Orange County Transit Plan Update Master Telecommunications Plan Map Orange County Climate Action Plan Efland-Buckhorn-Mebane Access Management Plan Buckhorn Area Study Orange Grove Road Access Eno Economic Development District Water and Sewer System Project Master Plan Management Plan Report Environment,Conservation,and Hazard Mitigation Orange County 2030 Comprehensive Plan Eno-Haw Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan Eno Economic Development District Small Area Plan State of the Environment NC Highway S7 Speedway Area Small Area Plan Strategic Growth and Resource Conservation Program Report Efland-Mebane Small Area.Plan A Landscape Plan for Wildlife Habitat Connectivity in the Endo River and New Hope Investigation of Ground-Water Availability and Quality in Orange County Creek Watersheds,North Carolina Stoney Creek Basin Small Area Plan Interlocal Agreements and Plans_ Greene Tract Interlocal Agreement Blackwood Farm Park Master Plan Central Orange Coordinated Area Land Use Plan Mebane-Orange County Utility Service Agreement Little River Regional Park&Natural Area Master Plan H lllshorough-Orange County Strategic Growth Plan X30 Parks and Recreation Master Plan ' Water and Sewer Management,Planning and Boundary Agreement Orange County Mountains-to-Sea Trail(MST)Route Joint Planning Agreement Joint Planning Land Use Plan New Hope Corridor Open Space Master Plan Slide #52 StakeholderReport • Summarizes inputs collected from ORANGE COUNTY LAND USE PLAN 2050 57 stakeholders interviewed during e Phase 1 oto • Used in the development of the Community Engagement Window 1A #1 activities and polling questions >, • Available on the website under Resources 35 Slide #53 qt Fact Book 7T • Objective:Share data and trends on community planning topics and future planning influences that are important considerations for developing plan policies. Include maps,charts,data tables,etc. Irv- MY to paint a picture of existing conditions in Orange County • Leverage previous data analysis from workshop and Community Policy Profile IrT • Available on the website under Resources Slide #54 Next Steps 7T • Early launch of CEW#2 at the Agricultural Summit (February 19) • Develop New Issues and Opportunities Report • Phase 4 - Develop Plan (Spring-Summer 2024): • Draft Plan Framework,Vision,and Goals • Growth and Conservation Framework • Land Use&Development Recommendations Report Commissioner McKee said he did not think there was any way to avoid changing and updating regulations. Vice-Chair Greene said that the county had previously looked into transferable development rights, and it would take special legislation to allow that. She said that they would be able to pay a farmer a certain amount of money to exceed density regulation. She said that it would require special legislation, but she would like staff to research whether that is an option. 36 Slide#55 Questions? Mill Chair Bedford asked if the consultants are assuming no changes with agreements and land use restrictions that are in place. Cy Stober said that staff would have a retreat with Clarion in March where they would decide on assumptions for the plan. Chair Bedford said it would be nice to know from OWASA if they have capacity for existing lines. She said that some lines exist where people can use it further out but not closer in. She said there is a WASMPBA decision coming to them in March and that she is concerned that if they grant the right to Chapel Hill, is there enough water to have water up and down Highways 86 or 54. She said she would like to hear if they have a concept of what their capacity is. She said that she needs some assurance on where they are. Cy Stober said he will do some homework and bring that information back. 3. Agricultural Preservation Board —Appointments Discussion The Board discussed appointments to the Agricultural Preservation Board. BACKGROUND: The Agricultural Preservation Board is charged with promoting the economic and cultural importance of agriculture in the County, and to encourage voluntary preservation and protection of farmland for future production. The Board of County Commissioners appoints all 15 members, including eight (8) At-Large members, and one (1) member from each of the seven (7) Agricultural Districts in the County. The following individuals are presented for Board consideration: NAME POSITION TYPE OF EXPIRATION DESCRIPTION APPOINTMENT DATE TERM Dr. Noah At-Large Partial Term 06/30/2025 Ranells Manley Palmer At-Large Partial Term 06/30/2024 If the individuals listed above are appointed, the following vacancies remain: 37 POSITION EXPIRATION VACANCY INFORMATION DESIGNATION DATE Schley/Eno 06/30/2024 Vacant since 02/24/2023 Voluntary Agricultural District White Cross 09/30/2026 Vacant since 09/30/2026 Voluntary Agricultural District Tara May introduced the item. The Board agreed by consensus on the recommended applicants. Commissioner McKee said he would assist in recruiting for the vacant positions. 4. Animal Services Advisory Board —Appointment Discussion The Board discussed an appointment to the Animal Services Advisory Board. BACKGROUND: The charge of the Animal Services Advisory Board is to advise the Board of County Commissioners on matters of concern regarding animal issues and animal services in Orange County, and to work with the Animal Services Director on various policy concerns and issues regarding County animal services. The Board of County Commissioners appoints all thirteen (13) members with representation from various related fields and municipalities. The following individual is recommended for Board consideration: NAME POSITION TYPE OF EXPIRATION DESCRIPTION APPOINTMENT DATE TERM Paula Kotarakos At-Large Partial Term 06/30/2025 If the individual listed above is appointed, no vacancies remain. Tara May introduced the item. The Board agreed by consensus on the recommended applicant. 5. Arts Commission —Appointment Discussion The Board discussed an appointment to the Arts Commission. BACKGROUND: The Arts Commission recommends strategies to promote the artistic and cultural growth of Orange County, advises the Board of Commissioners on matters involving the arts, and acts as the granting panel for funding programs available to individual artists and non- profit groups sponsoring arts projects in Orange County. The Board of County Commissioners appoints all fifteen (15) At-Large members. The following individual is recommended for Board consideration: 38 NAME POSITION TYPE OF EXPIRATION DESCRIPTION APPOINTMENT DATE TERM Wendy Smith At-Large First Full Term 03/31/2027 If the individual listed above is appointed, the following vacancy remains: POSITION EXPIRATION VACANCY INFORMATION DESIGNATION DATE At-Large 09/30/2026 Vacant since 09/30/2023 Tara May introduced the item. The Board agreed by consensus on the recommended applicant. 6. Chapel Hill Orange County Visitors Bureau Advisory Board —Appointments Discussion The Board discussed appointments to the Chapel Hill Orange County Visitors Bureau Advisory Board. developing and coordinating visitor services in Orange County. It also implements marketing programs that will enhance economic activity and quality of life in the community. The Board of County Commissioners appoints all seventeen (17) members, with representation from specific entities and fields. The following individuals are recommended for Board consideration: NAME POSITION TYPE OF EXPIRATION DESCRIPTION APPOINTMENT DATE TERM Paris Miller- Chapel Hill Town Partial Term 12/31/2024 Foushee Council Randee Haven Carrboro Town Partial Term 12/31/2025 O'Donnell Council Matt Hughes Hillsborough Board of Partial Term 12/31/2025 Commissioners Stephen Peck Alliance for Historic Partial Term 12/31/2025 Hillsborough Donald Bryan Chapel Hill-Carrboro First Full term 12/31/2026 Chamber of Commerce Jeri Lynn Chapel Hill Downtown First Full Term 06/30/2026 Schulke Partnership Staff Wendy Smith Orange County Arts First Full Term 12/30/2026 Commission If the individuals listed above are appointed, no vacancies remain. Tara May introduced the item. The Board agreed by consensus on the recommended applicants. 39 7. Chapel Hill Planning Commission -Appointment Discussion The Board discussed an appointment to the Chapel Hill Planning Commission. BACKGROUND: The Chapel Hill Planning Commission develops a comprehensive plan for the orderly growth and development of Chapel Hill. It reviews all plans for buildings, projects and facilities to be located within the Town's jurisdiction. It also formulates and recommends the adoption and amendment of ordinances. The Board of County Commissioners appoints one (1) resident representing the Chapel Hill Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ), as well as one (1) resident representing the Chapel Hill Extraterritorial Jurisdiction or the Joint Planning Area (JPA). The following position is presented for Board consideration: NAME POSITION TYPE OF EXPIRATION DESCRIPTION APPOINTMENT DATE TERM BOCC Chapel Hill Partial Term 06/30/2025 Appointee ETJ or JPA If the position listed above is filled, no vacancies remain. Tara May introduced the item. She said there was only one application for the vacant position. Vice-Chair Greene said her preference is to hold the position open and look for more applicants. Tara May said that the 90-day window has started, and there are about 60 days left before Chapel Hill appoints a person to the vacancy. Commissioner Hamilton asked for clarification that if they do not receive other applications, they will approve the one applicant that they do have. Chair Bedford said if they do not, Chapel Hill will appoint someone to the position. Tara May said that was correct and it has happened before. Commissioner Hamilton said she thought they should go ahead and appoint the only applicant for the vacancy. The majority of the Board agreed by consensus to wait until closer to the end of the 90- day period to see if anyone else applies. 8. Commission for the Environment—Appointments Discussion The Board discussed appointments to the Commission for the Environment. BACKGROUND: The Commission for the Environment advises the Board of Commissioners on matters affecting the environment with particular emphasis on protection. It educates public and local officials on environmental issues and performs special studies and projects. It also recommends environmental initiatives and study changes in environmental science and local and federal regulations. The Board of County Commissioners appoints all fifteen (15) At-Large members. The following individuals are recommended for Board consideration: 40 NAME POSITION TYPE OF EXPIRATION DESCRIPTION APPOINTMENT DATE TERM Dr. Kristie Mather At-Large Second Full Term 12/31/2026 Veronica Beattie At-Large Second Full Term 12/31/2026 Ian Morse At-Large First Full Term 12/31/2026 Matthew Ferguson At-Large Partial Term 12/31/2025 Lily Schacht At-Large First Full Term 12/31/2026 Patrick Fn'Piere At-Large Partial Term 12/31/2024 Dr. John Bucher At-Large First Full Term 12/31/2026 Nicholas Stover At-Large Partial Term 12/31/2024 Aimee Vandemark At-Large Partial Term 12/31/2024 If the individuals listed above are appointed, no vacancies remain. Tara May introduced the item. The Board agreed by consensus on the recommended applicants. 9. Hillsborough Planning Board —Appointment Discussion The Board discussed an appointment to the Hillsborough Planning Board. BACKGROUND: The Hillsborough Planning Board acquires and maintains information in order to understand past trends, prepare and amend the comprehensive plan for the development of the area, and prepare and recommend ordinances promoting orderly development. The Board of County Commissioners appoints three (3) members who are all residents of the Hillsborough Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ). The following individual is presented for Board consideration: NAME POSITION TYPE OF EXPIRATION DESCRIPTION APPOINTMENT DATE TERM Jeanette Benjey Hillsborough ETJ Partial Term 10/31/2025 If the individual listed above is appointed the following vacancy remains: POSITION EXPIRATION VACANCY INFORMATION DESCRIPTION DATE Hillsborough ETJ 05/31/2026 Vacant since 05/31/2023 Tara May introduced the item. The Board agreed by consensus on the recommended applicant. 41 10. Orange County Parks and Recreation Council —Appointment Discussion The Board discussed an appointment to the Orange County Parks and Recreation Council. BACKGROUND: The Orange County Parks and Recreation Council consults with and advises the Department of Environment, Agriculture, Parks and Recreation, and the Board of County Commissioners on matters affecting parks planning, development and operation; recreation facilities, policies and programs; and public trails and open space. The Board of County Commissioners appoints all twelve (12) members with representatives from each of the county's townships plus its municipalities, as well as two (2) non-voting youth delegates. The following individual is recommended for Board consideration: NAME POSITION DESCRIPTION TYPE OF EXPIRATION APPOINTMENT DATE TERM Casey Collins Hillsborough Township Partial Term 03/31/2025 If the individual listed above is appointed, the following vacancies remain: POSITION EXPIRATION VACANCY INFORMATION DESIGNATION DATE At-Large 03/31/2025 Vacant since 12/12/2023 Little River 03/31/2026 Vacant since 08/18/2023 Township Tara May introduced the item. The Board agreed by consensus on the recommended applicant. Adjournment A motion was made by Commissioner Hamilton, seconded by Commissioner McKee, to adjourn the meeting at 9:52 p.m. VOTE: UNANIMOUS Jamezetta Bedford, Chair Laura Jensen Clerk to the Board Submitted for approval by Laura Jensen, Clerk to the Board.