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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 05-07-2024 - Business Meeting 1 APPROVED 6/18/24 MINUTES ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BUSINESS MEETING May 7, 2024 7:00 p.m. The Orange County Board of Commissioners met for a Business Meeting on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. at the Whitted Human Services Center in Hillsborough, NC. COUNTY COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Chair Jamezetta Bedford, and Commissioners Amy Fowler, Jean Hamilton, Earl McKee, and Phyllis Portie-Ascott COUNTY COMMISSIONERS ABSENT: Vice-Chair Sally Greene and Commissioner Anna Richards. 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 Vice-Chair Greene and Commissioner Richards. Chair Bedford said that Vice-Chair Greene and Commissioner Richards would not be present. 1. Additions or Changes to the Agenda A motion was made by Commissioner Fowler, seconded by Commissioner Hamilton to approve an amendment to the agenda adding an additional case to the closed session. VOTE: UNANIMOUS Chair Bedford dispensed with reading 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 Colin Wahl said he is the general manager of UNC Hockey and wants to talk to them about the practice and games times at the Sportsplex for next year. He said in the last couple of years they were given preferred ice time, but next year, they have been told they will be given game times that may start at 10:00 pm or later. He said this will have a negative impact on the team, including lost ticket sales and preventing top teams from traveling here to play and compete. He asked that the commissioners intercede and discuss the impact of the late game starts with RFP. Craig Carter said he is concerned because a 90-year-old resident was sent a certified letter from the tax office and was required to pay back$7,000 to the county because her farm was 2 declassified. He said he is unhappy with the way the situation was handled and said that Commissioner McKee himself has farmed the property and so he is unsure why her property is no longer considered a farm. He said that the county needs to repay her and have common courteousness to a 90-year-old person. Nichole Palombo said she is the in-house scorekeeper for UNC Hockey. She said having UNC Hockey games during the day is beneficial for the Sportsplex because it helps with concession sales. She said the games are attended by many Orange County residents and families and pushing the games back to later hours will limit attendance and will prevent children from being able to attend. Michael Vaglia said he is the captain of the UNC Ice Hockey team. He said requiring home games to be played after 10:00 pm would have a negative impact on the program. He said the players' families and fans would not be able to attend. Tom Deis said the proposed decision to restrict UNC Ice Hockey ice time will limit attendance at those games. He said the Commissioners should discuss the impact. Keith Richotte said he and his eight-year-old son enjoy attending UNC Hockey games and would not be able to do so if home game times move to after 10:00 pm. He said having earlier game times is to the greatest benefit of the whole community. Sophie Suberman said the Opioid Settlement Funds provided to Grow Your World have filled all of the positions. She said that there are 64 people on the waitlist and 90 of the entire total are from CHCCS. She said if they were able to provide training to all of those people, they could reach 44,000 youth a month. She said the funding is fabulous. She said it was very cool to hear about the Hogs and the access to mentors is what keeps kids away from the higher risk behaviors. She said Boomerang had to close their afterschool program because they were not meeting their minimum attendance. She said that when programs are removed from teens, they have an idle mind and those are not. Soteria Shepperson said the funding provided by the county, helped them hire 15 people, including 7 young people, and 3 people of Burmese descent. She encouraged Commissioners to attend the art exhibit at Eno Arts Mill. Florian Zajic said he is a player with UNC Hockey, and it fills him and other players with joy to give back and inspire children to play hockey, and that is dependent on having reasonable game times for the program. Rebekah Bollinger said she is a big fan of UNC Hockey. She said reasonable ice times will further the community activity and the regular games serve as a rallying point to the local community. She said her favorite is the 20 or so marketing interns that the hockey team hired. She said that she found great joy and business growth by participating in the internship. She said the local economy is boosted by having normal rink times. She said the most important point is the youth inspiration that is provided when they can attend the games at a normal time. 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 Fowler said since the last meeting, she listened to the DCHC MPO meeting, which focused strategies for easing congestion and improving access for bike/ped and public transit. She said she attended the Board of Health meeting on April 24t" and heard the details from the first Access to Care Committee meeting, which included setting actions items like continuing to improve outreach for Medicaid expansion and continuing their photo voice project. She said the Health Director also gave an update on the Opioid Settlement Expenditures, and the Harm Reduction Coordinator will soon be hired to help direct the allocation. She said on April 271" she participated in the Senior Games and thanked the Department on Aging for all of their work planning that event. She said she also attended the second half of the Opioid Settlement meeting 3 that same day and heard a panel discussion and rotated stations to discuss ways to improve methods of addressing the opioid crisis, and the biggest gap seemed to be in the prevention category. She said she attended the SWAG meeting on April 29th and received an update on the path to zero waste. She said a Fair Oaks community member presented their pilot community composting project and discussion followed on how to scale that up to the county level. She said she also attended the Board of Health Behavioral Health Subcommittee meeting last night where they discussed substance use, suicide prevention, and general mental health prevention and ways to work on that over the next four years as well as making sure the work is equitable. Commissioner Portie-Ascott said she attended the Orange High School Spring Student Art Showcase and Reception and met some of the students there. She said she was excited to see their work. She said she attended the NCACC District 9 meeting. She said it was obvious hearing challenges and successes from the other participating counties that they are all struggling with the same things. In alignment with the Strategic Plan goal of Housing for All, Commissioner Portie-Ascott presented a petition to direct staff to investigate and report back on Orange County's ability to partner and leverage down payment assistance and closing cost programs, like that the US Department of Commerce, in order to afford Orange County employees the opportunity to live where they work. Chair Bedford said on Friday, there is a Be Well community wellness event at DSS in Hillsborough from 10:00 am-2:00 pm. She said there is a Shed-a-Thon behind the Home Depot in Hillsborough on May 11 th and another one at the park and ride lot on Eubanks Rd. on May 181h She said both events provide the opportunity to have confidential documents shredded. She said the Orange County Partnership to End Homelessness needs volunteers to review and score applications for funding on the Project Review Committee. She said this is a time limited commitment and applications are needed by May 22nd. She said there is a Summer Music Series at the Seymour Center this summer and encouraged people to attend. She said there is a dinner and documentary screening at the Seymour Center on May 30th Commissioner McKee said he previously petitioned staff to work on options to close donut holes for broadband service across the county. He asked staff to also bring an update on issues being faced with broadband in the southern part of the county related to hitting rock and DOT and traffic control requirements, and possible solutions. Commissioner Hamilton said on May 1st she attended the Central Pines Executive Board meeting. She said Central Pines is moving forward with a budget and focusing on recruiting and retaining good people and wants to increase their capacity to help counties get grants. She said on May 2nd she attended the Alliance Health board meeting and highlighted that Tailored Plan is going live on July 111, which is a program designed for people who need help to address serious mental illness, substance use disorder, intellectual and developmental disability, or traumatic brain injury and may be eligible for Medicaid or are uninsured. She said the Tailored Plans will cover both mental health services and physical health services and prescriptions. She encouraged anyone who is eligible to contact Alliance Health. Commissioner Hamilton said on May 4th she attended the House Us Now March, which was an important reminder about the housing needs in this community, especially for people with low income. 4. Proclamations/ Resolutions/Special Presentations a. Older Americans Month Proclamation The Board approved a proclamation joining Federal and State governments in designating the month of May 2024 as Older Americans Month and a time to honor older adults for their contributions to the community. BACKGROUND: May is Older Americans Month, a tradition dating back to 1963. For many years the Orange County Board of Commissioners has issued a proclamation for Older Americans Month. This year's national theme is Powered by Connection. It focuses on the profound impact 4 that meaningful connections have on the well-being and health of older adults — a relationship underscored by the US Surgeon General's Advisory on the Healing Effects of Social Connection and Community and recent report on "Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation" in the US. It is not just about having someone to chat with. It is about the transformative potential of community engagement in enhancing mental, physical and emotional well-being. By recognizing and nurturing the role that connectedness plays, everyone can mitigate issues like loneliness, ultimately promoting healthy aging for everyone. As everyone looks at aging through the Powered by Connection theme, it provides opportunities to: • Spread the word about mental, physical and emotional benefits of social connection and provides an opportunity to encourage friends and family to explore the opportunities that are available at the Seymour and Passmore Centers. • Promote opportunities to engage in local cultural, recreational and educational opportunities. • Connect older adults with local services, such as the Department on Aging, that can help them overcome obstacles to meaningful relationships and access to support systems that support aging well in community. • Benefit from making more connections, engaging in community and by giving back through volunteerism. Volunteerism and community engagement is vital for the future in meeting the growing needs of the older adult community. Communities find strength in people —and people find strength in their communities. • Form relationships. If anything was learned during the pandemic, it was that social isolation is deadly. An essential ingredient of aging well is being socially engaged and having relationships enhances quality of life. Investing time with friends, family and community is good for yourself and those around you. In the community, older adults are a key source of strength. Through their experiences, successes, and difficulties, older individuals have built resilience that helps them to face new challenges. When communities tap into this, they become stronger too. Ensuring that older adults remain involved and included in their communities for as long as possible benefits everyone. Today, aging is about eliminating outdated perceptions and redefining the way you want to age. President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Older Americans Act into law in July 1965. Since that time, the Act has provided a nationwide aging services network and funding that helps older adults live with dignity in the communities of their choice for as long as possible. These services include senior centers, daily lunch programs, caregiver support, community-based assistance, preventive health services, elder abuse prevention, and much more. While the Department on Aging offers outstanding programs and services to older adults year- round, Older Americans Month offers an opportunity to emphasize how older adults can access the home- and community-based services they need to live independently in their communities. It is also an occasion to highlight how the community is involved in implementing the 2022-27 Master Aging Plan and the continuing efforts to develop Orange County as an Age Friendly Community. Today there are over 34,000 Orange County residents who are 60+, and of that group, over 2,000 are age 85+. As large numbers of baby boomers reach retirement age, it is the goal to keep them physically and socially active through their 80s and beyond. Lifelong participation in community, social, creative and physical activities have proven health benefits, including retaining mobility, 5 muscle mass and cognitive abilities. Older adults are not the only ones who benefit from their engagement in community life. Studies show their interactions with family, friends, and neighbors across generations enrich the lives of everyone involved. Everyone should celebrate aging and the journey! Ann Bradford said she is the Vice-Chair of the Advisory Board on Aging and thanked the commissioners for her appointment and for all of the decisions they make to the benefit of older Orange County adults. She said the theme is Powered by Connection and highlighted its importance. Janice Tyler said there will be a Death Expo at the Seymour Center on May 8th from noon- 3:00 pm and vendors will be present to provide information on end-of-life resources and supports. She said there will be a Health and Wellness Fair on May 15th at the Passmore Center from 9:00 am — 1:00 pm. She said they also have two shredding events coming up as well on May 291h and the Passmore Center and May 30th and the Seymour Center. She encouraged the Board to attend the first of the Summer Music Series this Thursday. Lastly, she said this is the one-year anniversary of the Aging Well Together Radio Show and all of the radio shows have been turned into podcasts and are available on the county's website. Commissioner Hamilton read the following proclamation: ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS PROCLAMATION OLDER AMERICANS MONTH — MAY 2024 Theme — "Powered by Connection" Whereas, May is Older Americans Month, a time for us to recognize and honor the 34,000+ Orange County older adults and their immense influence on every facet of our daily lives; and Whereas, through their wealth of life experience and wisdom, older adults guide our younger generations and carry forward abundant cultural and historical knowledge; and Whereas, our older adults improve our communities through intergenerational relationships, community service, civic engagement, and many other activities; and Whereas, Orange County benefits when people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds have the opportunity to participate and live independently; and Whereas, Orange County must ensure that our older adults have the resources and support needed to stay involved in their communities — reflecting our commitment to inclusivity and connectedness; Now, Therefore, we, the Orange County Board of Commissioners, do hereby proclaim May 2024 as Older Americans Month, with this year's theme, "Powered by Connection", emphasizing the profound impact of meaningful interactions and social connection on the well-being and health of older adults in our community; and we call upon all residents to join us in recognizing the contributions of older adults and promoting programs and activities that foster connection, inclusion, and support of older adults. The 7th day of May, 2024. 6 Jamezetta Bedford, Chair Orange County Board of Commissioners A motion was made by Commissioner Hamilton, seconded by Commissioner McKee, to approve the proclamation designating May 2024 as Older Americans Month and authorize the Chair to sign the proclamation. VOTE: UNANIMOUS b. Presentation of Manager's Recommended Fiscal Year 2024-25 Annual Operating Budget The Board received a presentation on the Manager's Recommended FY 2024-25 Annual Operating Budget. BACKGROUND: Each year in the month of May, the County Manager presents the Board of County Commissioners with a recommended spending plan for the next fiscal year. During the meeting, the Manager provides a brief presentation of the Recommended FY 2024-25 Annual Operating Budget. The Board of County Commissioners will conduct two Public Hearings - the first at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, and the second on Thursday, May 30, 2024 at 7:00 pm. In addition, the Board has scheduled the following Budget Work Sessions: • May 16, 2024 - Budget Work Session with Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools, Orange County Schools, Durham Tech Community College and Outside Agencies. • May 23, 2024 - Budget Work Session with Fire Districts and County Departments within the following Functional Leadership Teams: Public Safety (Courts, Criminal Justice Resource Department, Emergency Services and the Sheriff's Office); Human Services (Child Support, Department of Social Services, Department of Aging, Health, Housing Department, Equity and Inclusion, Library Services and Alliance Health). • May 28, 2024 - Budget Work Session with County Departments within the following Functional Leadership Teams: Support Services (Asset Management Services, Community Relations, Finance and Administrative Services, Human Resources and Information Technology); General Government (Board of County Commissioners, Board of Elections, County Attorney, County Manager, Register of Deeds and Tax Administration); Community Services (Animal Services, Cooperative Extension, Department of Environmental, Agriculture, Parks and Recreation, Economic Development, Orange Public Transportation, Fleet Services, Planning and Inspections, Solid Waste and Sportsplex) including Non-Departmental items. • June 6, 2024 - Budget Work Session for Board to review budget amendments and finalize decisions (Resolution of Intent to Adopt) on the FY 2024-25 Annual Operating Budget and the FY 2024-2034 Capital Investment Plan. • June 18, 2024 - Business Meeting for the Adoption of the FY 2024-25 Annual Operating Budget and the FY 2024-2034 Capital Investment Plan. All meetings start at 7:00 p.m. Bonnie Hammersley made the following presentation: Slide #1 ORANGE COUNTY NORTH CAROLINA FY2024-25 COUNTY MANAGER RECOMMENDED BUDGET May 7, 2024 BOCC Business Meeting Slide #2 FY2024-25 RECOMMENDED BUDGET BUDGET PRIORITIES •Minimize Tax Rate Increase •Fund K-12 Continuation •Retain County Workforce •Sustain and Improve Service Levels •Preserve Financial Stability ORANGE COUNTY Nokm CAMLINA Slide #3 8 FY2024-25 RECOMMENDED BUDGET Historical General Fund Revenues and Expenditures $20o.a S2TB.4 ;284.4 52T1,9 •0 525fi.8 7 $250.0 ;23@. 3 ;2z2.a $200.0 $15D.p ■Revenues IEx pen dbres 61 p0.0 $50..0 $0.0 FY 2018- FY 2019- FY 2020- FY 2021- FY 2022- FY M3- 19 20 21 22 23 24 Proj. ORANGE COUNTY NORTH CAROLINA Bonnie Hammersley said the county is currently seeing a 2% increase in revenues and a 5% increase in expenditures. Slide #4 FY2024-25 RECOMMENDED BUDGET PXVENUE5 tJcwn and P�mr[a G,1� Mec�4n�oau 1• Appropn and Fund!Sams ry tr IIIproperty Taxes Y ■Sales Tax s..n.tan ■Licenses and Permits 0.S9f •Mlsci4anaous ■Appropriated Fund Balance ■Charges For Serufces ■InterBavernncental ■Transfers ORANGE COUNTY NORTH CAROLI A 9 Slide#5 FY2024-25 RECOMMENDED BUDGET Revenue Projections Property Tax Projections Property Tax Growth 2.45% = $5.3 Million Recommended Property Tax Increase: $0.0281 -balance budget = $6.5M Current Tax Rate - $0.8353 per$100 valuation Recommended Tax Rate = $0.8634 per$100 valuation ORANGE COUNTY NORTH CAWLINA Slide #6 FY2024-25 RECOMMENDED BUDGET Revenue Projections Sales Tax Projections Sales Tax has slowed to pre-amid levels of single digit percentage increases: - Point of Delivery -411/o - Per Capita-3% • Projected Increase = $1.6M State Hold Harmless . Anticipated reduction = ($2.2M) Solid Waste Pee • Rate Reduction $142 to $138 ORANGE COUNTY NORTH CAROLINA Bonnie Hammersley said there has been a significant decrease in sales tax growth. For comparison, she said last year's increase was $8.1 million and this year it is$1.6 million. She said this is also the first time she has recommended different percentage increases for Point of Delivery and Per Capita. She also noted that this is the first time there has been a gap between sales tax and the Medicaid rate, resulting in a $2.2 million loss. 10 Slide#7 FY2024-25 RECOMMENDED BUDGET EXPENDITURES crnHAIC0V rr"*M suppOrtsmic" c6r wKinity SFrvic" 4.3% Tra nste rs to Other ■General Government Funds 9.VA Tranal-G"or County -Support Services SKvfor ° ■Community Services ■Human Services ■Public Safety Durham Tech icran9 -Education Cam P. 6.3°6 ■Durham Tech(Orange Campus) ■Transfer for School Debt Service ■Transrer for Counly Debt Service ■Transrers to Other Funds ORANGE COUNTY NORTH CAROLINA Slide #8 FY2024-25 RECOMMENDED BUDGET Expenditure Projections Education • L=ducation Continuation Funding Personnel Impacts Wage Adjustment Compensation Increase of Employer Health Insurance Contribution Increase of Employer Retirement Contribution Rate Increase Living Wage r � ORANGE COUNTY NOKTH CAROLINA 11 Slide#9 FY2024-25 RECOMMENDED BUDGET Expenditure Projections Operating Impacts Inflationary Increases Employee Retention Fund new Southern Branch Library Reduce Department operating appropriations to historical spend rates Reduce Travel and Training to historical spend rates No net new positions ORANGE COUNTY NOKrH C.AROLLhfA Slide #10 FY2024-25 ",COMMENDED BUDGET Tr % Change in Rate of Inflation CPI Inflation by Selected Category Izda14 10,00% UMW 6A0°q � 4A096 2.W 96 — 'MY- pp — — — — pp pp pp � � R �Al aena Food —SheNer ORANGE COUNTY NOKFH CAROLINA 12 Slide #11 FY2024-25 RECOMMENDED BUDGET K-12 EDUCATION Carrbern City Current CantinU=iOn Current Expense $60,159,539 $65,W9,9$$ $67,914,989 $63,124,906 $2,966,368 Per-Pupil $5,346 $509 $6,096 $5,666 $320 5pccial Disuiet Tax-1 $0.198 $0.199 $0.199 $0.198 $n Current Expense $42,784,038 $44,542,182 $47,G47,282 $44,965,376 $2,181,338 Per-Pupil $5,346 $5,613 $6,004 $5,666 $320 1-An Increase In the Special District Tax for CHCCS Is not recommended ORANGE COUNTY NOKrH CAROLINA Slide #12 FY2024-25 RECOMMENDED BUDGET EDUCATION urrent Expense $89,353,187 $93,578,78 $102,942,57 $108,090,2 20.97°t ealth and Safe $3,629,5 $3,738,485 $3,888,0 $4,004, 10.33°t a ital Pa--Go $1200 $2 700 $3 060 100.00°f otal K-12 Funding $11fi,721,03 $120,324,6 $130,852,73 $134,347,15 II 15.101f oral GF Reven $238,794,1 $255,500,6911 $272,505,524 $267,d25,795I 20.37°t Enrollment 20,461 19 dr.z 19 25$ 19,077 -&'7 er Au Funding $4 6 $4,808 $5,3 $5 6 29.75111 1—UF1CXPended Capital Balance 2B55M � ORANGE COUNTY NOILTH{:AROLLNA Bonnie Hammersley said this budget does not meet the typical target of 48.1% of general fund revenues allocated to schools. She said slide #12 provides some context for why that is the case with this recommended budget. 13 Slide #13 FY2024-25 RECOMMENDED BUDGET EDUCATION is t t24-25 County Recommended Community College Base Request Manager Increase Budget Recommend Current Expenses S 900,346 S 1,157,VYO S 945,363 $ 45,017 Capital Outlay S 75,000 S 100,000 S 75,000 S Innovation Hub* S 20,000 S 20,000 $ 20,000 S - Back to Work Initiative* $ 100,000 S 100,000 $ loo,Doo S - Dutham Tech Promise* 5 200,000 5 200,000 S 2w,ow S Small Business Center Coordinator* S 70,00D S 74,440 S 70,000 S - Apprenticeship Coordinator* S 9,249 $ 9,755 S 8,755 $ 506 -Funded in Article 46,outside of the General fund ORANGE COUNTY NORTH C:AMLLMA Slide #14 FY2024-25 RECOMMENDED BUDGET COUNTY COMPENSATION PACKAGE EMPLOYEECOUNTY °10 Increase 'Total Compensation Adjustment J% $3,201D,Dw Living Wage Adjustment Gala $75,000 Health 8t Dental Insurance 540 $64U,000 Retirement Increase 60/0 $534,U0U Remove Matching Requirement for $75,400 AA I-Compensation Adjustmentincludes Meter artd 401Kadjustments of 4% 2-Le`r wg Doge Increase brag wege for temporAr�employ ees from S16,.60 per hour ro FS17.GSper hour 3-Allow equkahk drsEdbuuon of 401K suppolement ORANGE COUNTY NORTH C:AROLINA 14 Slide #15 FY2024-25 RECOMMENDED BUDGET DU-fSIDE AGENCIES Agencies Funded 42 52 38 3 Total $ 1,037,016 $ 1,969,914 $ 884,439 $ 162,776 ❑ Beginning in IFY 2024-25,the agencies that are eligible to bill Medicaid and receive Maintenance of Effort(MOE)funds will be moved to the MOE fund and will be managed by Alliance. ❑ There were seven(7) new agencies requesting funding of$144,000,four (4) new agencies were recommended to receive funding for a total of $22,500, ORANGECOUNTY NORTH C:AROLINA Slide #16 FY2024- 5 RECOMMENDED BUDGET FIRE DISTRICTS mm INCREASE Cedar Gnwc 80.09 $0.00 $0.09 Chapel Hill $0.1397 W.Do $0,1387 Damascus $0,1280 $O.W $0.1280 Efland $0.1028 $0.00 $0.1028 II Little River W0739 $0,00 V10739 Orange Grove S0.0827 $0.00 $0.09Z7 � 1 t South Orange. W0909 $0,00 $0,0909 Southern Triangle $(),IZN $0.00 $0.1280 White cross $0.1384 $10.00 $0.1384 ORANGE COUNTY NORTH CADDLINA 15 Slide #17 FY2024-25 RECOMMENDED BUDGET 13UDGET PUBJAC HEARINGS DATE Budget and Capital Investment Plain (CIP) May 14 & May 30 BUDGET WORK' SESSION SCHEDULE DATE Schools,Durham Tech, and Outside Agencies MAY 16 Fire District, Public Safety and Human Services May 23 Support Services, General Government and May 28 Community Services Budget Amendments and Rcsalution of Intent to June G Adopt BOCC REGULAR MEETING DATE FY2024-25 Operating and CIY Budget Adoption furic 18 ORANGE COUNTY NOKrH C.AROUNA Bonnie Hammersley asked the Board to submit budget amendments by May 29th so they can be posted 24 hours in advance of the public hearing on May 30th Slide #18 FY2024-25 RECOMMENDED BUDGET DOCUMENT AVAILABILITY • Clerk to Board of Commissioners County Budget Office Orange County Library • Chapel Hill Public Library • Orange County Website - http://orangecounrync.gov ORANGE COUNTY NORM CAROLINA Bonnie Hammersley encouraged everyone to especially review the transmittal letter at the beginning of the budget document for a summary of the budget and changes. 16 Slide #19 FY2024-25 RECOMMENDED BUDGET Mission Statement Orange County is a visionary leader in providing governmental services valued by out community, beyond those requited by law,in an equitable, sustainable, innovative, and efficient way. 'Vision Statement We are a diverse, inclusive, and healthy county working together to strengthen our community and enhance the quality of life for all residents. ORANGE COUNTY NOKrH CAROIAM4 Chair Bedford said budget questions can be asked at the various budget work sessions or sent to staff. She said all answers will be shared with the full board. Commissioner McKee said he appreciates Bonnie Hammersley's explanation of the 48.1% target for the school budgets this year. 5. Public Hearings a. Public Hearing on the Financing of Various Capital Investment Plan Protects The Board conducted a public hearing on the issuance of approximately $23,500,000 to finance capital investment projects, and equipment for the fiscal year; and approved a related resolution supporting the County's application to the Local Government Commission (LGC) for its approval of the financing arrangements. The financing and transaction costs are included in the loan amount. BACKGROUND: County staff estimates that the total amount to be financed for capital investment projects and equipment will be approximately $23,500,000. The North Carolina General Statutes require that the County conduct a public hearing on the proposed financing. A copy of the published notice of this public hearing is provided (Attachment 1). The notice of public hearing was advertised in The Herald Sun and The News of Orange County. After conducting the public hearing and receiving public input, the Board is asked to consider the adoption of the resolution (Attachment 2). The resolution formally requests the required approval from the North Carolina Local Government Commission (LGC) for the County's financing and makes certain finding of fact as required under the LGC's guidelines. County staff has been in contact with the LGC staff, and staff expects no issues in receiving LGC approval. If the Board adopts the resolution indicating its intent to continue with the financing plan, the Board will be asked to consider a resolution giving final approval to the financing plans at its May 21, 17 2024 Business meeting. Under the current schedule, County staff expects to set the final interest rates and close by the end of June 2024. Gary Donaldson, Chief Finance Officer, reviewed the background information for this item and made the following presentation: Slide #1 ORANGE COUNTY NORTH CAROLINA Series 2024 Limited Obligation Bonds Spring Financing Resolution and Public Hearing Gary Dmaldson,Chief Financial Clfyicer May 7, 2024 Slide #2 Purpose i Conduct Puhllc Hearing for Limited Obligation Bonds pursuantto NC Statute Section 16OA-20 A Close Public Hearing i Obtain Board Approval of Resolutlon to Proceed with filing Local Government Commission Application for Serles 2024 Llmlted Obligation Bonds A Funds-our FY2023-24Capital Investment Plan through this Series 20241-imited Obligation Bonds are secured by a Deed of Trust,with a security interest in various County and School facilities, A The Series 202411-imited Obligation Bondswill fund variouscounty projects including: -Vehicles and Equipment(7 Years useful Ilfe): $0.81VIllllon -County Projects(up to20years useful life]: $5.3Million -Durham Tech New Wing $11 Million -School Proiecfs[up to 20 vea rs useful life]: 55.1 Million TOTAL: $2 3.2 Million ORANGE COUNTY NORTH CILROLLNA 18 Gary Donaldson noted that the Durham Tech new wing will actually not be ready, so will likely come back in FY 2025-26. He said he will come back with a final resolution on May 215t, and it will not include that project. Slide #3 FY 24-25 Projects Project LGC Application Amount Debt Amortization 1 2 Planning 3 Research Triangle Logistics Park $ 1,684,707 20-Year Level Principal 4 Lake Orange Dam Rehabilitation 252,024 20-Year Level Principal 5 Planning Total 1,936,731 6 7 DEAPR 8 Neuse River Rules/Gravelly Hill Middle School 300,000 20-Year Level Principal 9 DEAPR Total 300,000 10 11 Solid Waste 12 Solid Waste Equipment Replacement 574,971 8-Year Level Debt Service 13 Solid Waste Total 574,971 14 15 AMS 16 501 West Franklin 2,000,000 15-Year Level Principal 17 Whitted Stormwater Improvements 175,000 20-Year Level Principal 18 AMS Total 2,175,000 19 20 Emergency Services 21 Bi-Directional Emergency Response K12 Coverage 1,344,674 8-Year Level Debt Service 22 Emergency Services Total 1,344,674 23 24 Public Transportation 25 AMS Vehicles 2 E Transit Vans 110,008 7-Year Level Debt Service 26 Animal Services Vehicles(2 E250 Fords) 97,800 7-Year Level Debt Service 27 DEAPR Vehicles(1 F250 and 1 F350) 100,556 7-Year Level Debt Service 28 DSS Vehicles(2 Escapes and 1 Pacifica) 103,659 7-Year Level Debt Service 29 Emergency Services Vehicles 4 Durangos and 1 Transit Van) 334,582 7-Year Level Debt Service 30 Environmental Health Vehicle Rav 4) 29,759 7-Year Level Debt Service 31 Planning Office Vehicles 29,379 7-Year Level Debt Service 32 Public Transportation Total 805,743 33 34 Schools 35 CHCCS 36 Deferred Maintenance 5,118,023 20-Year Level Principal 37 CHCCS Total 5,118,023 38 39 Durham Tech 40 Durham Tech 11,000,000 20-Year Level Principal 41 Durham Tech Total 11,000,000 42 43 LOB Total $ 23,255,142 19 Slide #4 Ivey Financing Terms i Securlty Pledge-County Assets serve as Collateral and subject to Annual County Appropriations A Maturlty Term-7-20 Year maturltles matches the useful Ilfe of the assets ➢ April 1 and October 1 Repayment Oates to Bank Trustee;First Interest Payment on October 1,2024 and Flrst PrinelpaI Payment on October 1,2025,conslstentwlth the Debt Model i Fstl mated Interest Rates- Between 2.5%-4.5%subject to market conditions A Series 2024 Llmlted Obllgatlon Bonds Maximum Annual Debt Service estimated to he$2.33 million In FY 2026 ➢ Source of Repayment-Property Taxes and Solid Waste Fees i Llmlted Obllgatlon Bonds are Subordinate Lien to AAA General Obllgatlon Bonds i Current Limited Obllgatlon Bonds-Aal/AA+/AA+From Moodyrsr Standard&Poor's and Fltch Ratings ORANGE COUNTY NORTH C.AROLINA Slide #5 LOB Collateral Overview Security Pledge-County Assets serve as Collateral and subject to Annual County Appropriations )i� Lenders generally require that the value of the collateral be equal to at least 50%of the financing amount (for example, at least$10 million of collateral for a$20 million loan.) )i� The Whitted Building, Orange County Library in Hillsborough and a variety of schools serves as the collateral which far exceeds the lender's requirements. �1, Pursuant to the County's financing document, the County can continue to borrow money against this same collateral pool as longs as a meaningful portion of the amount financed is used to improve property in the collateral pool. ORANGE COUI Commissioner Portie-Ascott asked which school buildings are included as collateral. 20 Bob Jessup said Culbreth and Ephesus are the two CHCCS schools, and for Orange County Schools, it is Orange High School, Pathways Elementary, and he will follow up with the others. Slide #6 Debt Service Model Metrics AIf CIP Projects OCDt R8t10& 14yd3 r P8y00t vex t0 AV US t0 G F ReVen eS 2024 62.88% 1.64% 13.60% 2025 63.63% 1.65% 13.09% 2026 62.Mi 1.21% 12.93% 2027 60.37% 1.44% 14.IB% 2028 60.439, 1.54% 14.59°b 2029 59.66% 1.77% 16.79% 2030 62.10% 1.59% 18.34% 2031 64.39% 1.51% 19.67% 2032 62.42% 1.67% 19.01% 2033 65.05% 1.55% 19.32% 2034 67.5296 1.34% 19_$'9% ORANGE COUNTY NUR:rH CJMDLINA Slide#7 Questions ORANGE COUNTY NORTH CAROLINA 21 A motion was made by Commissioner Fowler, seconded by Commissioner Hamilton, to open the public hearing. VOTE: UNANIMOUS There were no commenters signed up to speak. A motion was made by Commissioner Fowler, seconded by Commissioner McKee, to close the public hearing. VOTE: UNANIMOUS A motion was made by Commissioner Fowler, seconded by Commissioner Hamilton, to approve a resolution supporting the application to the Local Government Commission for approval of the financing. VOTE: UNANIMOUS 6. Regular Agenda a. Introduction of Bond Order Authorizing $300 Million General Obligation School Bonds, Subject to Voter Approval (First Reading), and Scheduling of a Related Public Hearing The Board introduced a Bond Order authorizing $300 Million General Obligation School Bonds, subject to voter approval and subsequent Board approval, and the scheduling of a related public hearing. BACKGROUND: Since the presentation of the Woolpert School Facility Study in December 2023, the Board has considered at several meetings plans to respond to the funding needs described in the study and how to balance school capital needs, other County capital needs and the resources available. At the January 19, 2024 Board Retreat, the Board made the determination to start the bond authorization process based on a referendum amount of$300 million in County general obligation school bonds for both school districts. Based on revisions as noted in the Manager's Recommended FY 2024-34 Capital Investment Plan (CIP), the County's assumptions for repaying the $300 million in proposed County general obligation school bonds and related interest is estimated to have a tax rate equivalent impact of 3.41 cents per $100 of valuation, with all of that increase scheduled for the County's 2025-26 Fiscal Year. At the Board's April 2, 2024 Business meeting, the Board adopted a preliminary resolution stating its intent to apply to the North Carolina Local Government Commission (LGC) for the approval of the bonds (the LGC is a division of the State Treasurer's office that must approve substantially all local government borrowing). The County has published a notice of this intent as required by law, and the LGC has accepted the County's application. If the Board proceeds to introduce the Bond Order tonight, the Board will be asked to take additional action at subsequent meetings, currently scheduled as follows: 22 Hold public hearing June 4, 2024 Take final action on bond order on June 18, 2024 second reading In any event, the Board must complete its formal authorization process before the summer break to allow the County Board of Elections adequate time for ballot printing and other organizational matters for a November 2024 referendum. Along with the introduction of the Bond Order, the Board is asked to consider the attached resolution calling for the required public hearing on June 4, 2024 and directing staff to take related action. At this point, the Board can reduce the bond amount, but the Board cannot increase the amount unless the County re-starts the process. Both the Orange County Schools and Chapel Hill — Carrboro City School Boards of Education have adopted resolutions in support of the bond referendum process. Gary Donaldson, Chief Finance Officer, reviewed the background information and made the following presentation: Slide #1 ORANGE COUNTY NORTH CAROLINA General Obligation School Bonds First Read of the Bond Order Board of County Commissioners Business Meeting May 7, 2024 23 Slide #2 Background • School Capital Needs Taskfarce recommended School Facility Study to priorit¢e both School❑istrictfaciIi ties with FaciIityConditions Index as a key measure. • At the Board of Commissioners Retreat on January 19,2024,the County approved moving forward with a funding plan for County and School Facility Needs. Funding for this plan includes: A$300 million General Obligation School Bond Referendum and additional Pay- Go School Funding of$144 million. Limited Obligation Bond funding for identified County Facility Needs and previou sl y a pproued C I P projects. • New State Law requires GO Bond Ballot to include Total Debt Service(Principal and Inferest)and GD Bond Tax Rate. Prior Bond Ballots had included the Principal amount. • Local Government Commission has reviewed the County Plan of Finance and Debt Policieswith Staff, FinancialAdvisorsand Bond Counselto ensu re compl iance with the new State Law.. • Four separate Board Actions required from April 2 through June 4,2424� ORANGE COUNTY NORTH C.AKULINA Slide #3 Total Tax-Supported Debt to Assessed Value and Debt Service to General Fund Revenues Tax Rate Breakdown of Capita; Improvement Flan Year Debt to AV DStoGF Tax Rate BaseCIP_ Ravenues Equivalent 2.7" 2024 184% 13.80% 2025 1.8646 13.09�5 School PayGo_ 2026 121% 12.83l6 8.884 2,6" 2027 1.44% 14.15% - 2028 1.14% 14.59% School GO Bonds_ 2029 1,77% 18.79% 2034 1.58% i8.34% 2031 151% 19.67% 2032 167% 19.01% 2033 155% 19.52% 2034 1.34% 19.89% 2035 121% 18.89% - Total I mpact 8.884 ORANGE COUNTY NORTH CAROLLNA 24 Slide #4 Annual debt 5eruice Payments nn Existing Debt Sao,Aoa,mo 535J�0,�70 5lyplxr,mo- 52s,000-,00a Ssgnoo-,rou SISJOOO,OOQ 5�opo6,l700 sspoaaaa 5- 202+ 2025 202G M7 2028 202D 200 2031 2032 2033 2034 -as ■roanry Amwal peh[Serpro 25[hools Annwl Cwb[Sendoe tnvham7ali Annual nebtwyio ORANGE COUNTY NOKrH CAROLLhfA Slide #5 Annual Petit Service Payments on Existing and Proposed LIP Petit $90,oao,aaa $80,000,000 $70.000,000 $80.000,004 W.0K NO $d0,000,M0 $30,90ulcco $20,900,Cco $10.000,000 5- qt cb ob C N cb oA ry cb ob p ry O O G C O O C O O O G N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N ■Existing Debt Service ■Proposed CIP debt Service ■Proposed School GD bond Debt Service ORANGE COUNTY NOKFH CAROL NA 25 Slide#6 School FY Go bonds Addl Sdiool Pay-Go Total .................................................................................... 2024 - 2025 - 2026 - 10.000.000 10.000.000 2027 100.000,000 10.000.000 110,000,000 2028 10,000.000 10,000,000 2029 100,000,000 10,000.000 110,000,000 2030 - 10.000.000 10,000,000 2031 - 10.000.000 10,000,000 2032 100,000,000 10,000,000 110,000,000 2033 - 10.000.000 10,000,000 2034 10.000.000 10.000.000 2035 10,000,000 10,000,000 Total 300,000,000 100,000,000 400.000.000 ORANGE COUNTY NORTH C.kWLIMA Slide #7 General Obligation Bond North Carolina General Obligation Financing Key Provisions General Obligation Bonds Voter Approval Re"red,excephon for Refunding and T1ao-Thlyd Bands Security Pledge-Full failh,credMaxing power of the Counly Malunty Term-24 years statute permits 40 years Senior position and takes priority to all other Couro Limited 4bligwkn Bonds and Instalment Notes. Source of repwm ni-Pro"Tm Flnanees,Bddings, School Facdihes and Remvallom wllh Ian useful We Ratrlgs-AaarAkkAAA by Mnodye,Standard&Poor's and Fllch Rabgs LGC approval required ORANGE COUNTY NORTH{:AROLINA 26 Slide #8 AAA GO Band Ratings from the Three Nationally Recognized Rating Agencies ■ Orange County has maintained AAA ratings from Fitch, Moody's and Standard & Poor's the past ten years- ■ One of few counties with this distinction nation-wide- ■ AAA rating designation allows for lowest possible borrowing rates. ■ Prior three rating agencies' analyses have cited; -ea Stable tax and economic base. * Strong financial performance and financial policies. * Regular monitoring of budget versus actuals with quarterly financial reporting to the Board. * Long-term financial modeling and proactive operating and debt management strategies. ORANGE COUNTY NORI"H CAROLINA Slide #9 O Band and CIP Total Tax Rates 3.41 GO Bond 5100 ' ik Assessed Value $100,000 $34.10 $88.80 $200,000 $68.20 $177.60 $300,00a $102.30 $266.40 $400,000 $136.40 $355.20 $500,000 $170-50 $444.00 ORANGE COUNTY NORTH CAROLINA 27 Slide #10 Bond Referendum Key Dates Tentative GO Rend Plan januaFy 10,2024.Beapd RewaaA FEE3Fidel'y 13,2924 PnanGe PInliMinaFy Resoloition lnteptM Uroreed on Anri1 2 2024 Sojni ncnn Meeting First Reading-Authorizing the Bond Order May 7,2024,Business Meeting and Call for Public Hearing Hold Public Hearing June 4,2024,Business Meeting Second Reading-Take Final Action on June 16,2024,Business Meeting Band Order Band Education Committee Summer-Autumn 2024 Y Bond Referendum November 5,2024 Slide #11 SAMPLE BALLOT Orange County School Sands (For Orange CnrarU Schools and Chapel Hill-Carrbory City Sc�hvv]sl Additional prupelty taxes nay be levied on property located hti Orange County in an anwunt sufficient to pay the principal c f and iutevent cn bonds if approved by the following ballot question. Shall the order authorizing$300,000,000 bonds plus inters#to pay capital Lasts of providing school faellfties and paying related Lasts and provid hag that additional taxes may be levied in an amount sufficient to pay the principal of and interest on the bands,as adapted by the County's Board of Commissioners on June 18,2024,be approved,in l fight of the fol Lowing: (1)The estimated cumulative cost over the life or the bond,us ing the highest interest rate charged for similar debt over the last 20 years,watdd be $480,360,000. (2)The estimated amou nt of property tax liability increase for each one hundred thousand dollars(V100,000)of property tax value to service the cumulative cast over t he life of the bond provided above would bs$34.10 per Year- YES[]NO ORANGECOUNTY NOK]171-1 CAR01-111U 28 Slide #12 2016 BALLOT Orange County school Bonds Shall the order authorizing Orange County general obligation bonds in the maximum amount of$120,000,000 plus interest to pay capital costs of providing school facilities and paying related costs, and providing that additional taxes may be levied in an amount sufficient to pay the principal of and interest on the bonds, as adapted by the County's Board of Commissioners on May 6, 2016, be approved? [ J YES [] NO ORANGECOUNTY NOR1"H CAWLINA A motion was made by Commissioner Hamilton, seconded by Commissioner Fowler, to approve the introduction of the Bond Order for up to $300 million in general obligation school bonds in the form presented; and adopt the resolution calling for a public hearing and directing staff to take related actions, again in the form presented. VOTE: UNANIMOUS b. Approval of the Orange County US 70 Multimodal Corridor Study (MCS) The Board approved the Orange County US 70 Multimodal Corridor Study BACKGROUND: In 2019, the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) approved US 70 as a County priority for consideration in the State's Strategic Prioritization of Transportation (SPOT) process. VHB, a consulting firm, recently completed the US 70 Multimodal Corridor Study (Attachment 1). It presents a comprehensive understanding that safety and congestion issues would be addressed through the State's highway mobility, complete streets, and local development review process for multimodal accommodations. Key Highlights • US 70 to be designated a Transit Emphasis Corridor with specific transit improvements. • Multimodal recommendations are bike lanes, sidewalks, multiuse path, and transit access • Reduce speed and accept widening as an unavoidable future of the corridor east of Mebane. NCDOT Complete Streets and County Complete Street Policy All highway projects go through a comprehensive"complete" use assessment. Per the new policy, "during the Comprehensive Transportation Planning (CTP) process, bicycle, pedestrian, transit, and other multimodal usage shall be presumed to exist along and across certain corridors." The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) recognizes that an individual user is a pedestrian, bicyclist, transit rider, EV/gas vehicle driver, etc., and often times in the same day. 29 Therefore, the policy dictates, "Consideration of multimodal elements will begin at the inception of the transportation planning process and the decisions made will be documented." The BOCC also adopted a Complete Street and Vision Zero policy on October 2022. Local Authorization — UDO and Collector Street Plans The Orange County Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) section 2.5.3.(v) and 6.10.A.1.(b), includes the requirements for reserving and dedicating right of way or requiring road construction listed in locally adopted Collector Street Plans or on the CTP. Specific mention is also made to the dedication of right of way based on the concepts shown on the CTP and locally adopted transportation plans, in accordance with N.C.G.S. § 136 66.2 and § 136 66.10. Orange County currently has three locally adopted transportation plans: • Efland-Buckhorn-Mebane and Orange Grove Road Access Management Plans • Eno River Economic Development Access Management Plan • NC 54 Multimodal Corridor Study (East and West) Approval of the US 70 West Multimodal Corridor Study will demonstrate County's commitment to multi-mobility, transit access, and safety of the transportation as an important local priority. It also demonstrates to local, regional and State partners that the County, like NCDOT's Complete Streets, sees the road network as equitable for all travelers, not favoring one over the other, and acknowledges that a traveler throughout the course of their day will walk one place, ride another, drive to and from a third, and bike yet another. Mebane City Council Action — March 4, 2024 Unanimous approval: • Approval of: Goals, Objectives, and Recommendations of Segment A and the portion of Segment B extending from Segment A to Frazier Road as presented. • Endorsement of: Vision and Recommendations of the US 70 Multimodal Corridor Study outside of Mebane. Hillsborough Town Board of Commissioners' Action — March 25, 2024 Unanimous approval: • Approval of: Segments C, D, and F within Hillsborough Town Limits • Endorsement of: US 70 Multimodal Corridor outside Hillsborough Transportation Advisory Services Action — March 14, 2024 Unanimous Approval Orange Unified Transportation Board (OUTBoard) Action —April 15, 2024 Approval: 7-1 recommending BOCC approval of the Study (an excerpt from the draft meeting minutes with detail discussion is provided at Attachment 2). Nish Trivedi, Transportation Director, reviewed the background information and made the following presentation: 30 Slide#1 ORANGE COUNTY NORTH C:AROLINA US-70 Multimodal Corridor Study 4/16/2024 BOCC Slide #2 Outline r Background r Existing Conditions y Public Engagement Multimodal Corridor Plan r Policy, Infrastructure and Funding r TOD, TEC, Multimodal and Complete Streets r Action r Mebane & Hillsborough r County Slide #3 Background - CI:I---C'-IAIQ HILL-CARRBORO BGMpt' .7 DCHCoBv'I q--G'h—MN�G0�—A...ngO'genifetimN ORANGE COUNTY NORTH CAROLINA TOWN OF NORLLS l 1GH (I� k RTH[AkoAOii TNA NIA a d� 4 MMW" 31 Slide #4 Background -_ 4b BikelPed. & Intersections Urban and Rural I `. Rail,vehicle, &Transit Freight Slide#5 i Cf Study Area • Includes 70A in Hillsborough y 6 Segments cif Studies separately &collectively Nish Trivedi said that the corridor has a lot of mixed uses already and is a combination of rural and densely populated areas. He said the segments were studied individually and holistically. 32 Slide #6 Exciting Conditions �wlab AYtor Quality,SaJrc .h WAt hods s. H+turd Fwkares } Wildlift Rews - ExiSIML PedesttimR Sirncle heiworks EJ.ins Transit Routes - Reponal Hlkm;&Biking Floutm _- Takek T+xck Prrcenta�es - r z victrihutlonofu57atrlFs for point weuofwesl Hill Stir�issri«�irW:gcn,�,, -_ Including: • Traffic Volume �� �..... - Level of Service "� ■ Heavy Truck Peak&non-Peak -, Off--road crashes 5 Slide #7 Exciting Conditions Crash Density lncT-eased Crashes A • Increased Speeding r Speed Data with Statutory Limits Paps•1rrtian�rvwth,YOYO 7a YG6Q lrrtploynnentrrowth.2020to 20% 1 - • Increased Rural Population • Increased Rural Employment �a= ' NT9fAYluNJ{wrJx lMF 33 Nish Trivedi said that they studied crashes, and it was identified that people are driving faster than prior to COVID and the speed is resulting in more accidents and more severity of those accidents along the corridor. Slide #8 Public Engagement All publications and Interactive Map Documents M p an o}r a :s page lar enepariod,a eplaaeitgar aoc—ti'lrat harcb piepmed Mrimer inr m the mulUmodrl nuay sr W wmmr.i--A"6Land Tckc clew.no t�acr.rd dunng the diwir wq p—-a Existing Conditions ■ s5l�ting Condilioin R.mort'rr'i.t.-REW ■_ _ vLarket Analysis ■�ll�jllbYmfElAtltlrlatl111hdf.lm.�...Rew CORRIDOR F-Le1P1'MEWS . �...:....._ �.� ..--... .. Public Workshops Round x-Itiovcm6er&Dweraber 2023 pr.ynp.ilpnF FGelrume to the a—d z wa.a,hoa R.e,eatntior-Wk K'co IMLa;ktEW ■wou�ra z xmrlr5hm preirnranen Nakna.au.n irc..1s 1 rrnr US 70 Multimodal Corridor 5tudV 0:v�naawa.rinyR rreeenmtio�-on.aeca.rr i�r-.wa ai wew , M HL449�'a dtl,e�4t+nr•e RY6ii�xv xrMR:,4:a:nEW Project wets site ?Aeb d+§a s o D s_�g.oa Mr a.p�c_xx61G&a I•vc:k�M Round 1-March xos; ■ft'w I ft'krlg pnwma ion-Mesh k -0 rn-0. Nish Trivedi said the consultant created a website and led an extensive public engagement process. Slide #9 Public Engagement >`ra��r$rbe�gle 70 ertira�at�mr��eloe�ssrtsm■a■ VS"Muitimod.1 C—rid K snad}.W('�. w.......�.r-.. r`..,.-+..� COY=Unit Y Meet ilig NUt iCC .... ]In,�arl ih ��rc..d.�vwn,,.wkrmumm.nmo.�nntiw,. 7.. ww w.wr..rr�xwarRw..w� ��..sw. www..rw�.rrrsna..rr. cn—nitym�mw. NcrdnRide'- .r-�.. Proirn k'e6sin M _ 1=i Round Workshop 211 Round Workshop March NovernberlDecember 34 Slide #10 Public Engagement • Relieving vehicular congestion • Maintain the character of the corridor • Slowing down speeds of cars • Providing more bus, pedestrian and bicycle • Improving intersections and connections crosswalks • Improved access and circulation into schools, ._ . . i . 10 Slide #11 Multimodal Corridor Plan - G & o Manage traffic congest n iuv..roi Mobility Prioritize bikefped. • Improve transit access on ,.a,. Transportation investment protect community r,ti.mFp Rlaoemaking character • Prioritize bike, ped,and transit in urban areas o�' ^�I Irnprove comfort for non-automobile users m sY Work towards Vision Zero W1FF, 4 • Reduce pedestrian-automobile conflicts n.wv.- .�r#m Job Access FF' Improve access to jobs in and outside corridor oT1. Natural - Improve multimodal access to parks Wn Environment Reduce wildlife-autorobile conflicts 11 35 Slide #12 Multimodal Corridor Plan - Policy Extend sidewalk connectivity to anticipated growth areas. • Establish a maintenance agreement between NCDOT and Orange County for new and existing pedestrian facilities on US 70. • Require developers building on land parcels fronting US 70 to either construct sidewalk along their frontages, dedicate ROW for future construction, or pay in lieu. Manage travel demand for future development in the Efland- Suckhorn-Mebane economic development area, • Update the Efland-6uckhorn-Mebone Access ! onogement Plan to include pedestrian, bicycle, and transit connectivity recommendations. Slide #13 Multimodal Corridor Plan - Speed �f5' xAmos[o Ml[�vanYS ' f ,1S y..vllnli rl.n.y, a+ "I L LISP 4 1 M1 � T s ras �-M1J �S: M1 J �RN a s 7 R 4 ae AL4 35 f �31 1 r f Figure 22 Speed Linnit Changes Speed Limil,Changes 4 Preferably 35 miles per hour NCAMPO 2024— Drive Slower, Travel Faster 13 36 Slide #14 Multimodal Corridor Plan - Intersection i GH 3 ■ J i t 6UR14AR4 Figure II US 70 Rec4MMOnded Traffic Operational improvemems 14 Slide #15 Multimodall Corridor Plan - Transit stops NE6fWE r`- - vv xri • ^ IV- { .._� NILLSi5g81fGH Nishith Trivedi said there will be various transit access improvements to include additional stops and routes. He said that it will include improving routes. 37 Slide #16 Multimodal Corridor Plan - Transit Access k t '4Y t— EM Y�y 4 S J - f L Slide #17 Illtirnodal Corridor Plan — TOD }I 1�} t — P18Ke7Ef5iYplfhRAFh TS s1' -mil { �k t Jx � ru E .NE• stiff � � _ HIELkE0 }1GH rf r TOD—Transit Odented Development 17 Nishith Trivedi said that development should include transit considerations. 38 Slide #18 Multimodal Corridor Plan - Bike/Ped J I _ f _ Nishith Trivedi said locally adopted plans have informed this document and that this document does not dictate priorities to local governments. Slide #19 Multimodal Corridor Plan - Bike ` k ' l ti 4 t V,f f_r. Chair Bedford asked if the recommendation for bikes was to go parallel on 70. 39 Nishith Trivedi said yes and they want to include bike in the rural areas as well but more consideration needs to be taken in those areas. Slide #20 Multimodal Corridor Plan - Highway r f i4 - I _ MEBANE . t HI OU j t T 13UR M u� r 4 Figure 20 US 70 Recommended Roadway Infrastructure Improvements fv Commissioner McKee asked if widening means a super street with medians. Nishith Trivedi said this plan is only 20% design so a divided four lane with a median. He said the intersection would have super streets but other areas would not. Chair Bedford asked the date for this. Nishith Trivedi said there is no date and because it is a state-maintained highway, there is no exact date in mind. He said that having a locally adopted plan allows them to tell the state how to widen roads. 40 Slide #21 lultim d l Corridor Plan - Costs Segment k $ 11,loa,o0o Segment Moltimodal Segment C Bike + Ped. + Transit+ Vehicle Segment D $ 13,504,004 Segment E 52,100,00D Segment F S 16,E00,0013 Con1dor Total $ 2W200,000 TeblrV WDOT{wnpletrRlme Miry120191Cost5herrScenadm T•bL-74 rw prM6hIWPWN ,r.dCW:L" €amp1oh Stmats Cast Share lIcHa ml[cat Mara {art Pw%ft4 pap Pad%Ty" In FUn No In PWL hat Dmommit Nunapl Paps Lihon Hatd ldvn0FW KDW Low Pnde b nFaolq WEI(rpaysful Cast Sham Local 101KO OW 3D% 9"IsFaflPoy M1 IKYI-pe}xful Local l koli-a bmim Ow, 11. SdePath Moor pays full Cast Simrr Local IROX6 oSGAC*} =9W Wlh Graanpay aosJng nKoorpayrtul =SWrr Local t 1$6(n 85x SA Bud Pullout wwrpytful CW'6%(r laeil 9us5bWJpadan46 r-KOOTpsyrtul =Slone Local In Plan m Locak Adopted Highway Plan Example; CTP,TMR Corridor Plan, AMP, Calactor Street Plan 21 Chair Bedford asked why segment B is more than half. Nishith Trivedi said the 70 connector that goes into the Efland industrial area would have to be redesigned and that cost is higher. He said the Buckhorn area on 70 is a rail corridor as well and Buckhorn would not be widened but the access would be improved. Chair Bedford asked if the segments will be done in a certain order. Nishith Trivedi said when a state project is impacted, if it is funded, the state breaks it into pieces. Chair Bedford asked if segments D, E, F are complementary. Nisith Trivedi said Hillsborough's plans are incorporated into this policy, not being dictated by it. 41 Slide #22 Multimodal Corridor Plan - Funding • Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) • Safe Streets For All (SS4A) k a • TPM Bus and Bus Facility Grant Program TPM • Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) • Complete Streets • SPOT Safety/Mobility/HSIP • Private Development • Local Government kol 22 Slide #23 Multimodal Corridor Plan - Development 6.2.4 Private Development Interests There are multiple recommendatlons(le,A.9,2, B.11,2,CA 1.2, etc.)that encourage jurisdictions to codify policies that require developers along US 70 to either construct sidewalk along their frontages, dedicate ROW for future construction, or pay in lieu as new developments are permitted and constructed. Each jurisdiction should develop a policy that details the level of these requirements tailored to their specific community, but which would result in implementation of the recommendations through private funds.This way,while built in pieces, the outcome is a consistent and connected US 70corridor within each jurisdiction. (2030)COMPREHENSIVE SOSTAINABILITY PLAN E+ ' 3 42 Slide #24 Multimodal Corridor Plan - Action Mebane Town Council Action-March 4,2024 Unanimous approval: ■ Approval of: Goals, Objectives, and Recommendations of Segment A and the portion of Segment B extending from Segment A to Frazier Road as presented. ■ Endorsement of. Vision and Recommendations of the US 70 Multimodal Corridor Study outside of Mebane. Hillsborough Town Commissioner Action-March 25,2024 Unanimous approval: ■ Approval of.Segments C,❑,and F within Hillsborough Town Limits • Endorsement of.US 70 Multimodal Corridor outside Hillsborough Transportation Advisory Services Action-March 14,2024 Unanimous Approval OUTBoard Action-April 15,2024 Approval:7-1 in favor of BOCC approving the Study 24 Slide#25 Action The Manager recommends the Board approve the US 70 Multimodal Corridor Plan. Chair Bedford asked if updates can be made depending on other planning related plans. Nishith Trivedi said amendments can be made to this plan as needed since it is a locally adopted plan. Chair Bedford asked how this plan can be used for short term projects. Nishith Trivedi said twice a year, the OUTBoard identifies and reviews non-STIP projects. He said by adopting this, they would adopt non-STIP projects. He said that this plan would allow them to work with DOT to leverage these projects short term projects through administrative processes. 43 Chair Bedford said that Commissioner Greene would want to know about the deer safety for the deer crossing. Nishith Trivedi said they are working with DOT and the MPO to improve wildlife signage all along the corridor. A motion was made by Commissioner Fowler, seconded by Commissioner Hamilton, to approve the Orange County US 70 Multimodal Corridor Study VOTE: UNANIMOUS 7. Reports a. Introduction of Bond Order Authorizing $300 Million General Obligation School Bonds, Subject to Voter Approval (First Reading), and Scheduling of a Related Public Hearing The Board reviewed statutes and policies surrounding school capital funding and discussed implications for the funding associated with the proposed November 2024 bond referendum. BACKGROUND: At a prior meeting, BOCC Chair Jamezetta Bedford petitioned staff to prepare a review of the statutory and policy roles that the Board of County Commissioners (the Board) can play regarding the funding of school capital. Based on that request, staff will present information on the Board's statutory powers related to school capital funding, the current practice of the County, and the policies enacted by prior Boards of Commissioners. Staff will also share information regarding how those powers and policies could be used to direct a project-based bond funding policy. This presentation constitutes the first in a series on proposed school bond projects. At the May 21, 2024 Board Business meeting, the County and the two districts will present their respective bond project plans. At the June 4, 2024 Board Business meeting, staff will request direction on the Board's preferred bond plan, and also request direction for staff, the school districts and the bond education committee. Kirk Vaughn, Budget Director, reviewed the background information and made the following presentation: Slide #1 ORANGE COUNTY NORTH CAROLINA Board of County Commissioners Role in School Capital Funding May 7, 2024 44 Slide#2 SCHOOL CAPITAL FUNDING POLICIES Board of County Commissioners has significant power in setting the priorities of school capital funding • Board may allocate capital funds by purpose, function or project. * Board can choose when and how it appropriates funding. • County can directly manage either project management or construction of school facilities. ORANGE COUNTY NORM CAWLINA Chair Bedford asked if purpose and function mean the same thing. Bob Jessup, the county's bond attorney, said they are not the same, but it is related to how they already appropriate money to the schools. He said that a function could be something that goes across to all schools and a purpose would be narrower and the best way to make the distinction is project vs purpose. Slide #3 SCHOOL CAPITAL FUNDING POLICIES Current Practice • County staff sets funding amounts for each source and informs the school districts. * County receives project list from school districts for presentation purposes, but group them into broad projects. — Ex. Technology, Classroom Improvements, Electrical, Recurring Capital, Deferred Maintenance. * Once Purpose projects are authorized, school districts are fully able to use funds for any projects within those broad purposes. Not required to complete original projects. ORANGE COUNTY NORTH CAFJDLLNA 45 Slide #4 SCHOOLCAPITAL FUNDING POLICIES Allocation by Purpose, Function,or Project • County can set capital funding each year by specific project, instead. • Districts would submit their requested capital priorities by project to Board. • Board can review project requests by both districts and prioritize funding as desired. • Districts would need board approval to substantially exceed budgetary authority by project. • Districts could not spend county dollars on projects outside of the approved list. ORANGE COUNTY NORTH C:A OHNA Slide #5 SCHOOLCAPITAL FUNDING POLICIES Power of Appropriation • Counties are only required to appropriate "sufficient to support a system of free public schools." • No requirement that capital funding be allocated by ADM, nor on July 11,t each year. Capital funding can be authorized any time in the year as a Capital Budget Amendment. • In 2008 Planning and Funding School Capital Projects policy, board adopted a 4 stage appropriation approach. — Board only approved construction funding after approving concept plan and confirming cost and capacity estimates. ORANGE COUNTY NORTH C UV OLINA Slide #6 SCHOOL CAPITAL FUNDING POLICIES Power of Appropriation • County and school districts can work together to set design standards for new construction, as in 1997, 1999 and 2007. • Can be used to ensure new school designs stay within scope and budget. • Set other priorities in school design, such as safety, sustainability, Pre-K capacity or EC adequacy. • Staff would compare new construction designs to set design standards, and present to board before construction funds are appropriated. ORANGE COUNTY NORTH C:AROLINA 46 Kirk Vaughn said that it is not required that the appropriation be exactly on July 1. He said that various methods of when the funds are disbursed can be approved. Slide #7 SCHOOL CAPITAL FUNDING POLICIES Direct County Management • County can directly contract the project management firm for major projects in both districts through an interlocal agreement with the districts. • By centralizing the resource, county can ensure project decisions are made equitably across projects in both districts. • Would require increase in county capacity to oversee project managers. • Woolpert plan sets aside $1 M a year from Pay-Go to fund project management, either within both districts or for use by the county. CRANGECOUNTY Nowt"L:AKOLI NA Commissioner Fowler asked if the $1 million would go to the project manager's salary. Kirk Vaughn said they asked the consultant to get the best practices and bring those back. He said that they have said that it should not be just a third party and should be some combination of internal staff and a contractor. Commissioner Portie-Ascott asked if the county has the capacity to do that. Travis Myren said the county has never been involved in school construction projects, so would be new territory for the county. He said the county project managers handle project management for internal county projects. Commissioner McKee said he envisions this as hiring a management firm that has experience in multi-school projects over the entire districts. Kirk Vaughn said yes and if they provide the funding to the districts, then they would hire the consulting firms directly. Travis Myren said a construction manager at risk is a project delivery method, and someone overseeing all contractors, and they provide a guaranteed maximum price. Commissioner Hamilton said they would still have to oversee the third party and the question is who would do that, county, schools, or both. Commissioner McKee said that the details would be spelled out in the contract and the oversight on the part of the county or school boards would be narrowly focused on if the contract expectations are being met. Travis Myren said one entity would have to hold the contract, so maybe the county would do that with input from the districts. Commissioner Hamilton said all of these potential costs should be kept in mind. Kirk Vaughn said the Woolpert plan indicates that would cost around $1 million a year, which is why that amount is being set aside. 47 Slide#8 SCHOOL CAPITAL FUNDING POLICIES Board Options • Board has significant latitude in how much it wishes to direct school capital funding, ranges from: • Allocate by ADM, group by purpose (current practice) • Allocate by ADM, group by project • Allocate and group by project, not by ADM • Allocate in stages to ensure certain outcomes and design standards are met • Apply different rules to different parts of the capital budget — Ex.Annual Maintenance &Recurring Capital allocated by ADM, grouped by purpose, but Bond&Pay-Go are allocated by project ORANGE COUNT( NORTH CAROLINA Slide #9 SCHOOL CAPITAL FUNDING POLICIES Questions? ORANGE COUNTY Commissioner Fowler said the Board had preliminarily decided to allocate funding by project. She asked if the percentage breakdown per district changed since the school districts have changed what projects they want funded from the Woolpert study. Kirk Vaughn said it is still around the 60-40 split. Commissioner Portie-Ascott asked if there is a list somewhere of the projects the school districts actually want to pursue. Kirk Vaughn said currently there is the list recommended to the Woolpert Plan, and the school districts will present any deviations from the plan on May 16tn Chair Bedford said there will be more certainty on how the bond dollars are spent and neither the school boards nor the voters will want to be that flexible. Commissioner Hamilton asked what polices need to be updated so that they align with the Woolpert principals and standards. Kirk Vaughn said that would be something to work on over the next year. 48 Commissioner Hamilton said her personal assumption was that there would be some back and forth between districts and Woolpert in for the presented plan to be what they would move forward with, but she wants to make sure projects are aligned with the principles established in the Woolpert Study even if they differ from the final plan. Commissioner Fowler said the latest standards were 2007 and asked if there are newer standards to follow. Chair Bedford said as a Board, they should let the school boards know that they are listening to how things have changed. Commissioner Portie-Ascott asked if the Board will decide on the projects before the bond goes on the ballot. Chair Bedford said no, they will decide on the money and will have a list of proposed projects from the school districts. Commissioner Portie-Ascott said she thinks the voters will want a whole list of what they are being asked to pay for. Chair Bedford said they are now on a time crunch, and they are working with Woolpert to make corrections on projects and there is an estimate of funds needed. Travis Myren said staff needs enough high-level information now to determine the sequencing of projects over the next 10 years for financing purposes. He said that will inform what the tax impact will be. He said they would want to know the major projects. Commissioner Hamilton said this information will be important to educate residents. She also said that there are a lot of policies, and they are all old. She said a comprehensive overview needs to be done. She said that this could be a role for the Capital Needs Work Group. Chair Bedford said she never saw the 2008 standards and she was on the school board for 12 years and there were no commissioners appointed to implement capital spending. Commissioner Hamilton said policy needs to be updated if it is not being followed. She said it is not enough to say that they will follow Woolpert, and they need to make a policy. Chair Bedford asked Bob Jessup about the difference for project-based allocation. Bob Jessup said project-based gives commissioners the ability to decide which projects happen first. He said that they can make sure projects get phased in a way that they think is appropriate and also participate in making sure money is spent in an efficient manner. Commissioner McKee said another thing to think about is the fact that they are managing projects across two different districts, unlike other counties in the state. Chair Bedford said because it is so much money and the tax increase is so great, she thinks they need to have a management firm and the schools will probably need an additional person so that they stay on top of this. She said she supports Commissioner Hamilton's point about the policies as well. She said she likes the idea of ADM still for maintenance but wants to make sure those funds are not being put toward new projects. Commissioner Fowler said she agrees with that and said the amounts they agreed to came in close to ADM and if they need to vote again, she is happy to do that. Commissioner Hamilton asked for clarification on what they are referring to. Chair Bedford said it is the allocation of how the funds will be split amongst the districts. Commissioner Fowler asked if the second person has been appointed to the bond education fund committee. Chair Bedford said she thinks the Board will appoint on June 4th and the deadline for applications is May 291h Commissioner Fowler asked if a district 2 person should be on the committee. Chair Bedford said she thinks that is wise and they can speak more about that in the future. 49 8. Consent Agenda • Removal of Any Items from Consent Agenda • Approval of Remaining Consent Agenda • Discussion and Approval of the Items Removed from the Consent Agenda A motion was made by Commissioner Hamilton, seconded by Commissioner Fowler, to approve the consent agenda. VOTE: UNANIMOUS a. Minutes The Board approved the draft minutes for the March 12, 2024, March 19, 2024, and March 21, 2024 Board meetings as submitted by the Clerk to the Board. b. Motor Vehicle Property Tax Releases/Refunds The Board adopted a resolution to release motor vehicle property tax values for eight (8) taxpayers with a total of ten (10) bills that will result in a reduction of revenue. c. Property Tax Releases/Refunds The Board adopted a resolution to release property tax values for seven (7) taxpayers with a total of eight (8) bills that will result in a reduction of revenue. d. Memorandum of Agreement for Co-Gen Rail Transformation Project The Board approved the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the Co-Gen Rail Transformation Project and authorized the Chair to sign. e. Apraxia Awareness Day Proclamation The Board approved a proclamation recognizing May 14, 2024 as Apraxia Awareness Day and authorized the Chair to sign. f. Resolution Supporting the America 250 NC Program and Committee The Board approved and authorized the Chair to sign the resolution supporting the America 250 NC program and the Orange County Committee. g. First Reading — Emergency Services Franchise by Ordinance — Providence Transportation, Inc. The Board on first reading granted a franchise for a five-year term to Providence Transportation, Inc., approved the Franchise Agreement under which Providence Transportation, Inc. will operate during the five-year period of franchise, and directed staff to bring back the Franchise Agreement for second reading approval at the Board's May 21, 2024 Business meeting. h. Boards and Commissions —Appointments The Board approved the Boards and Commissions appointments as reviewed and discussed during the April 30, 2024 Work Session. 9. County Manager's Report Bonnie Hammersley reviewed the agenda for next Tuesday's meeting. 10. County Attorney's Report John Roberts had no report for the Board. 11. *Appointments None. 50 12. Information Items • April 16, 2024 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 • Memorandum — Update on BEAD Funding for Remaining Unserved Broadband Addresses 13. Closed Session A motion was made by Chair Bedford, seconded by Commissioner Fowler, to enter into closed session at 9:31 p.m. pursuant to G.S. § 143 318.11. (a)(3), to consult with an attorney employed or retained by the public body in order to preserve the attorney client privilege between the attorney and the public body regarding Kenske v. Orange County and Thompson v. Orange County, and to approve closed session minutes. VOTE: UNANIMOUS RECONVENE INTO REGULAR SESSION A motion was made by Commissioner McKee, seconded by Commissioner Fowler, to reconvene into regular session at 9:53 p.m. VOTE: UNANIMOUS Adjournment A motion was made by Commissioner McKee, seconded by Commissioner Fowler, to adjourn the meeting at 9:53 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