HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 10-01-2024 - Business Meeting 1
APPROVED 11/7/24
MINUTES
ORANGE COUNTY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
BUSINESS MEETING
October 1, 2024
7:00 p.m.
The Orange County Board of Commissioners met for a Business Meeting on Tuesday, October
1, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. at the Whitted Human Services Center in Hillsborough, NC.
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Chair Jamezetta Bedford, Vice-Chair Sally Greene and
Commissioners Amy Fowler, Jean Hamilton, Earl McKee, Phyllis Portie-Ascott, and Anna
Richards (arrived at 7:06 pm)
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS ABSENT: NONE
COUNTY ATTORNEYS PRESENT: John Roberts
COUNTY STAFF PRESENT: County Manager Travis Myren, Interim Deputy County Manager
Caitlin Fenhagen, 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.
1. Additions or Changes to the Agenda
Chair Bedford pulled item 8-1 from the consent agenda for consideration as item 4-e.
2. Public Comments (Limited to One Hour)
a. Matters not on the Printed Agenda
There was no one signed up to speak.
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 McKee said he had the opportunity to be part of the Inter-City Visit with the
Chapel Hill Chamber of Commerce in Ann Arbor, Michigan around a week ago. He said they saw
some very innovative approaches to problems they were having that are similar to challenges
faced here.
Commissioner Fowler said she attended the Board of Health meeting last Wednesday.
She said the board will continue to dive into the issue of teen mental health and social media use.
She extended thanks to Orange County Emergency Management personnel for assisting those
affected by Hurricane Helene in Western NC.
Vice-Chair Greene also thanked Orange County first responders who have assisted
victims of Hurricane Helene. She also said the GoTriangle Board of Trustees accepted the
resignation of Charles Latuga as head of GoTriangle last week, as he decided the position is not
a good fit for him at this time. She said he was hired to help build a commuter rail line and that
plan is now on hold. She said the GoTriangle Attorney, Byron Smith, is currently acting CEO.
Chair Bedford said a press release she saw today said that 38 personnel from 7 different
agencies have been sent from Orange County on 9 different state missions to help victims of
Hurricane Helene. She echoed thanks given by Commissioner Fowler and Vice-Chair Greene to
those individuals. She recognized Nancy Coston, DSS Director, and thanked her for her many
years of service and congratulated her on her upcoming retirement. She notified residents of the
second community CLUP 2050 meeting on Thursday night at 6:00 pm at the American Legion
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Post on Highway 54 West. She said this plan gives the vision for how land use will be in the
unincorporated parts of Orange County. She announced that Plant Fest will be held this Saturday
from 10 am-2 pm at the Bonnie B. Davis Environment and Agricultural Center. She said the
Sustainability Department is holding a Drive Electric Event at the Board of Elections on Saturday
from 9-11 am. She said this will give people an opportunity to see electric vehicles in case anyone
is interested in purchasing one. Chair Bedford also announced the Seymour Center is holding a
Hispanic Heritage month celebration on October 8, 2024. She encouraged anyone interested in
attending to register. Finally, she encouraged people to be aware of scams when donating to
those affected by Hurricane Helene.
Commissioner Richards arrived at 7:06 pm.
Commissioner Hamilton echoed thanks to the Emergency Managers and first responders
who have been sent to help victims in the western part of the state. She said she appreciates
everyone who has come together across the state to support each other. She said she has been
to various meetings recently but wants to mention she is the chair of the Aging Advisory Group
that's part of the Area Agency on Aging. She said she is looking to see how the group can work
together to address some of the aging issues in this region. She said one need is to increase the
number of ombudsmen for long-term care. She said there are people who are hired through
Central Pines Regional Council to go out and help support people in long-term care facilities and
know their rights. She said she wants to work on increasing the number of ombudsmen this year.
Commissioner Richards announced that there are accommodations for folks with
disabilities when voting. Since the last meeting, she said she sat in on the re-entry simulation and
encouraged anyone who has not attended before to consider attending in the future. She said
everyone she talked to who attended said they learned a lot from the experience. She said the
Orange County Partnership for Young Children looking for people to serve on their board and
encouraged residents to apply.
Commissioner Portie-Ascott also thanked staff and first responders assisting in the
Western part of the state. She said she attended the Greene Tract Master Plan Update and Land
Use Plan 2050 community engagement session last week at Gravelly Hill last week. She said
residents were outspoken which is always a good thing. She said she attended the Efland
Volunteer Fire Department Expansion Ribbon Cutting and took a tour and heard about all of their
successes and challenges. She said she attended the Justice and Public Safety Steering
Committee with the NCACC. She said each steering committee was voting on legislative goals to
determine which ones make it to the legislative conference in November. She said her committee
had 2 goals on the list. The first was legislation to support authorizing counties to regulate the
carrying of concealed weapons on county-owned playgrounds and county-owned park lands and
allowing courts to prevent access to firearms for individuals who show signs of being a danger to
themselves or others. She said this item moved forward while the second item did not, which was
about some recommendations to the North Carolina Task Force on Racial Equity.
Commissioner Richards said she also wants to mention she attended the Orange County
Employee Appreciation Event on Friday and congratulated Orange County staff that celebrated
their work anniversaries.
4. Proclamations/ Resolutions/ Special Presentations
a. Disability Employment Awareness Month Proclamation
The Board approved a proclamation declaring October 2024 as Disability Employment Awareness
Month in Orange County.
BACKGROUND: October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month to commemorate
the many contributions people with disabilities make in America's workplaces and economy.
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Workplaces welcoming of the talents of all people, including people with disabilities, are a critical
part of Orange County efforts to build an inclusive community and strong economy.
Brenda Bartholomew, Human Resources Director, reviewed the background information
for the item. She also introduced Darice Johnson from the Disability Awareness Council. She also
recognized a guest, Matthew, and noted that Dr. Timothy Miles was in the audience.
Commissioner Fowler read the following proclamation:
ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
PROCLAMATION
DISABILITY EMPLOYMENT AWARENESS MONTH
OCTOBER 2024
WHEREAS, October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month; and
WHEREAS, this October marks the 79th anniversary of National Disability Employment
Awareness Month, with a history tracing back to 1945, focusing only on people with physical
disabilities and has evolved today to acknowledge the importance of recognizing the inclusion of
people with all nature of disabilities; and
WHEREAS, the purpose of National Disability Employment Awareness Month is to educate about
disability employment issues and celebrate the many and varied contributions of America's
workers with disabilities; and
WHEREAS, during National Disability Employment Awareness Month, Orange County
recognizes the immense contributions of disabled Americans, and recommits to delivering
America's full promise of equal dignity, respect, and opportunity for every American and Orange
County welcomes the talents of all people, including people with disabilities; and
WHEREAS, Orange County remains committed to continuing our efforts in building an inclusive
community, increasing access to good jobs for all workers, including disabled workers and
reinforcing the value and talent people with disabilities add to our workplaces and communities;
and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that Orange County recognizes and commemorates the
79th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month and declares October 2024
as Disability Employment Awareness Month in Orange County; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Disability Employment
Policy and Orange County call upon employers, schools, and other community organizations in
Orange County to ensure that disabled workers have access to good jobs every month of every
year; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Orange County Board of Commissioners pledges to
continue to take steps throughout the year to recruit, hire, retain, and advance individuals with
disabilities and work to pursue the goals of opportunity, full participation, economic self-sufficiency,
and independent living for people with disabilities.
This, the 1 st day of October, 2024.
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Jamezetta Bedford, Chair
Orange County Board of Commissioners
A motion was made by Commissioner Fowler, seconded by Commissioner McKee, to
approve and authorize the Chair to sign the proclamation.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
b. Domestic Violence Awareness Month Proclamation
The Board approved a proclamation recognizing October 2024 as Domestic Violence Awareness
Month in Orange County.
BACKGROUND: Domestic Violence is a pattern of behaviors used by someone to maintain
power and control in an intimate or family relationship.
In 1989, the U.S. Congress first passed Public Law 101-112 designating October of that year as
National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and has adopted similar legislation each year
thereafter. The goal has been to educate and make the public aware of domestic violence issues,
support the victims of domestic violence, and to connect advocates across the nation who are
working to end domestic violence.
The Board of Commissioners is asked to proclaim October 2024 as "Domestic Violence
Awareness Month" in Orange County to support victims of domestic violence, to educate
residents, and support those working to end domestic violence.
Commissioner Hamilton read the following proclamation:
ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
PROCLAMATION
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH 2O24
WHEREAS, domestic violence is a pattern of behaviors used by someone to maintain power and
control in an intimate or family relationship; and
WHEREAS, domestic violence encompasses not only physical abuse, but also emotional, verbal,
financial, sexual, or digital abuse, isolation, and/or stalking; and
WHEREAS, domestic violence disproportionately impacts racial and ethnic minorities,
undocumented people, women, trans and gender non-conforming people, and disabled people;
and
WHEREAS, racism, sexism, xenophobia, transphobia, ableism, and other forms of oppression
and discrimination perpetuate domestic violence and make seeking safety and stability more
difficult for marginalized survivors; and
WHEREAS, according to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, on average nearly 20
people per minute are abused by an intimate partner in the United States. During one year, this
equates to more than 10 million people; and
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WHEREAS, in North Carolina, according to the North Carolina Coalition Against Domestic
Violence, at least 73 individuals were murdered by a current or former intimate partner in 2023
and at least 63 have been murdered so far in 2024; and
WHEREAS, at least two Orange County residents have been murdered so far this year by a
current or former intimate partner or family member; and
WHEREAS, Compass Center, the state-designated domestic violence service provider for
Orange County, serves more than 1,300 survivors of domestic violence each year through its 24-
hour domestic violence crisis line, support groups, court and community advocacy, Latinx
programs, career and financial counseling, and other services and engages thousands more in
prevention education and outreach; and
WHEREAS, Compass Center has collaborated with numerous local agencies over the last two
years to bring the Lethality Assessment Protocol (LAP) Program to Orange County, which trains
first responders to screen for lethality risk factors and directly connect highest-risk victims to the
Compass Center, and is now receiving on-scene referrals from LAP-trained officers with the
Orange County Sheriff's Office, and the Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Hillsborough police
departments; and
WHEREAS, preventing domestic violence requires the collective awareness, care, and action of
individuals, institutions, and systems to transform our communities through social norms, policies,
and laws that reject violence and abuse and promote healthy relationships based on respect,
trust, and equity;
NOW, THEREFORE, we, the Orange County Board of County Commissioners, do hereby
proclaim October 2024 to be:
"Domestic Violence Awareness Month"
and encourage the residents of Orange County to observe this time in ways appropriate to its
importance and significance.
Proclaimed this the 1 st day of October, 2024.
Jamezetta Bedford, Chair
Orange County Board of Commissioners
A motion was made by Commissioner Hamilton, seconded by Vice-Chair Greene, to
approve and authorize the Chair to sign the proclamation.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
Rachel Mandell and Cay Stratton, Compass Center Board members, thanked the Board
for adopting this proclamation. Rachel Mandell said as prevalent as domestic violence is, there is
still a silence around it. She said being able to talk about it in this open forum is important and
they appreciate the Board's time and commitment to this. She said the Compass Center has seen
an over 40% increase in the number of people calling the hotline, 200% increase in the number
of people calling about housing crises, and almost 100% increase in the number of people
responding to the Spanish speaking services. She said she hopes the Board will also recognize
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the increase in pressure on the services the Compass Center provides and the funding and will
keep that in mind going forward.
c. Hispanic Heritage Month Proclamation
The Board approved a proclamation designating September 15 through October 15, 2024 as
Hispanic Heritage Month in Orange County.
BACKGROUND: Hispanic Heritage Month, observed from September 15 to October 15, began
as a week-long celebration in 1968 under President Lyndon B. Johnson. The initial focus was to
honor the contributions of Hispanic Americans to the United States, marking the anniversaries of
independence for several Latin American countries. In 1988, President Ronald Reagan expanded
the celebration to a full month, recognizing the growing significance and impact of Hispanic and
Latinx communities in shaping American culture and society.
This observance highlights the rich history, diverse cultures, and achievements of Hispanic
Americans, reflecting their integral role in the nation's development. It encompasses the
anniversaries of independence for Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua
on September 15, Mexico's Independence Day on September 16, and Chile's Independence Day
on September 18.
In the 1988 White House Hispanic Heritage Week proclamation by President Reagan (the final
week-long celebration before the month long celebration began in 1989), he stated that "All
America is becoming ever more aware of the contributions that Hispanics have made to American
life, American culture, and America's destiny. The strength of your heritage gives you hope for
your children. For, as someone once said, "If only we are faithful to our past, we shall not have to
fear our future." This proclamation along with the education and celebration that go along with it
will draw us nearer to Reagan's goal of us being faithful to our past.
The theme for Hispanic Heritage Month 2024 is "Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future
Together." This theme encourages the community to celebrate and honor Hispanic and Latinx
individuals who have been instrumental in shaping the history of the United States, while also
inspiring collaborative efforts towards positive change and future growth.
Travis Myren introduced Paul Slack, Chief Equity and Inclusion Officer, and described his
professional background to the Board.
Paul Slack introduced Marlyn Valeiko, Language and Community Specialist. Marlyn
Valeiko and Chair Bedford read the following proclamation in Spanish and English, respectively:
ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, Hispanic Heritage Month began as Hispanic Heritage Week to honor the culture,
history, achievements, and contributions of Hispanic people, recognizing Latinos, Latinx,
Hispanics, and Latin American people in the United States, was established by legislation
sponsored by Representative Edward Roybal of Los Angeles and was signed into law by
President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1968; and
WHEREAS, in 1988, the commemorative week was expanded to a month — September 15 to
October 15 — by legislation sponsored by Representative Estaban Torres, amended by Senator
Paul Simon, and signed into law by President Ronald Reagan; and
WHEREAS, September 15 was chosen as the starting point for the commemoration because it
is the anniversary of the Cry of Dolores, early morning of 16 September 1810, which marked the
start of the Mexican War of Independence and thus resulted in independence for the New Spain
Colony, now Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, el Salvador, Costa Rica, Honduras and Nicaragua in
1821; and
WHEREAS, throughout the year and especially during Hispanic Heritage Month, Americans
embrace, honor and celebrate the Hispanic community and its traditions and contributions; and
WHEREAS, Orange County has a diverse population, and Hispanic and Latino residents
constitute a large and diverse ethnic group in Orange County; and
WHEREAS, the Hispanic residents in Orange County are a diverse group with roots stretching
throughout North, Central, and South America, and many trace their heritage to the original
indigenous peoples of Latin America and Africa; and
WHEREAS, the national theme of this year's Hispanic Heritage Month, "Pioneers of Change:
Shaping the Future Together", is intended to capture the spirit of leadership, perseverance,
ingenuity and collaboration by Hispanic and Latino people in the United States and abroad; and
WHEREAS, throughout the history of the United States, members of the Hispanic and Latino
community have helped shape the social, political, and economic landscape of this Country and
our community;
NOW, THEREFORE, we, the Orange County Board of Commissioners, do hereby proclaim
September 15 through October 15, 2024, as Hispanic Heritage Month in Orange County, affirming
the 2024 theme of"Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together" and call upon all residents
of Orange County to celebrate this month through activities and programs that enlighten and
inspire our understanding of the amazing heritage of our Hispanic families, neighbors and friends.
This the 1 st day of October, 2024.
Jamezetta Bedford, Chair
Orange County Board of Commissioners
A motion was made by Chair Bedford, seconded by Commissioner Hamilton, to approve
and authorize the Chair to sign the proclamation.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
d. Resolution Calling on Governor Roy Cooper to Commute All North Carolina Death
Sentences to Prison Terms
The Board approved a Resolution Calling on Governor Roy Cooper to Commute All North
Carolina Death Sentences to Prison Terms.
BACKGROUND: Orange County Board of Commissioners Vice-Chair Sally Greene and
Commissioner Anna Richards have provided the attached proposed resolution for Board
consideration. The draft resolution calls on North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper to use his broad
clemency power to commute North Carolina's 136 death sentences to prison terms.
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Vice-Chair Greene invited Sally Freeman, Nick Courmon, Dewey Williams, and Noel
Nickle forward. She said there is a Walk for Commutation going on right now that started on
September 26th created by the NC Commission for Alternatives to the Death Penalty (NCCADP).
She said they are walking 136 miles to raise awareness for the 136 lives at risk of execution in
North Carolina and calling on Governor Cooper to eliminate that risk by commuting the death
sentences. She said the walk began in Winston-Salem and will end in Raleigh on October 101h
which is World Day Against the Death Penalty. She said the walk will begin and end in the two
counties, Forsyth and Wake, where more people are sentenced to death than anywhere else in
the state. In the evenings after the walk each day, there will be gatherings for meals and activities
and in the day, they are pausing at historic and contemporary sites where the racism of the
criminal justice system continues to thrive.
Vice-Chair Greene and Commissioner Richards read the following resolution in turn:
ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
RESOLUTION CALLING ON GOVERNOR ROY COOPER TO COMMUTE ALL NORTH
CAROLINA DEATH SENTENCES TO PRISON TERMS
WHEREAS, our community upholds the values of fairness and due process for all people; and
WHEREAS, the criminal justice system, including the death penalty, starts at the local level, with
local tax dollars and local employees used to enforce the law; and
WHEREAS, the administration of the death penalty affects all of our community's residents as
victims and victims' family members, as offenders and offenders' family members, and the
community at large; and
WHEREAS, a fair criminal justice system benefits the entire community; and
WHEREAS, 200 innocent people in the United States since 1973 have been exonerated and
released from death row; and
WHEREAS, North Carolina's death penalty has led to at least twelve innocent people being
condemned to die in the modern era, one of whom spent 30 years on death row before DNA
testing proved another man was the culprit; and
WHEREAS, intentional and systematic racial bias has been shown to have a "persistent,
persuasive and distorting role" in North Carolina's death penalty (North Carolina v. Robinson,
2012; Michigan State University, 2010; UNC, 2000); and
WHEREAS, a 2024 Racial Justice Act hearing revealed stark new evidence of racial inequities in
the death penalty, including the intentional exclusion of Black individuals from capital juries; and
WHEREAS, the death penalty is closely linked to North Carolina's history of slavery, lynching,
and Jim Crow and continues to be disproportionately imposed on Black men for crimes against
white people; and
WHEREAS, North Carolina houses the nation's fifth largest death row, made up largely of people
sentenced more than 25 years ago before important reforms to the capital punishment system
and a dramatic drop-off in death sentencing; and
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WHEREAS, the death penalty has no proven public safety value and public support for executions
has reached historic lows (https://news.gallup.com/poll/513806/new-low-say-death-penalty-fairly-
applied.aspx); and
WHEREAS, millions of North Carolina taxpayers'dollars spent on the death penalty every decade
could be used for crime prevention and programs to offer assistance to murder victims'families;
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Orange County Board of Commissioners calls
on the Governor of North Carolina to use his broad clemency power to commute North Carolina's
136 death sentences to prison terms, therefore insuring that these outdated and unfair sentences
are never carried out.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that copies of this resolution shall be forwarded by Clerk to the
Board of Commissioners to the Governor of the State of North Carolina.
This the 1 st day of October, 2024.
Jamezetta Bedford, Chair
Orange County Board of Commissioners
A motion was made by Vice-Chair Greene, seconded by Commissioner Richards, to
approve the attached Resolution Calling on Governor Roy Cooper to Commute All North Carolina
Death Sentences to Prison Terms; and if approved, authorize the Chair to sign the resolution and
direct the Clerk to the Board of Commissioners to forward the signed resolution to the Governor
of the State of North Carolina.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
Sally Freeman thanked Vice-Chair Greene and Commissioner Richards for bringing this
resolution forward and the Board for approving it. She said this Friday, walkers participating in the
136 mile walk across the state will be in Hillsborough at Mt. Bright Baptist Church. She said there
will be a community potluck and program and the Orange County Remembrance Coalition will be
sharing information about historic racial terror lynchings that have happened in Orange County.
She said they will be viewing the film Racist Roots which draws the connection between racial
terror lynching and the death penalty in North Carolina. She introduced NCCADP Executive
Director Noelle Nickle, and Nick Courmon.
Nick Courmon said he currently serves at the NCCADP Community Engagement
Coordinator and also does some spoken word and education as well. He thanked the Board for
adopting this resolution. He said from a moral, equity, and historical perspective, this is the right
decision to make. He said the modern death penalty is rooted in the past of racism and white
supremacy. He said Orange County no stranger to racial terror and named several victims of
racial terror here. He said many state leaders have been silent or lukewarm about the harm that
death penalties have, and it is imperative for all citizens to be trailblazers for truth and set
examples for others to follow. He said it is his hope and prayer that other governing bodies will
follow this resolution adopted by the Board tonight.
Noelle Nickle said she is the Executive Director for NCCADP. She said this 21-partner
coalition is committed to ending the death penalty and creating a new vision of justice rooted in
restorative justice, racial justice, and centering the voices of people most impacted. She said right
this moment, someone is being executed in Texas. She said he is the 6th person to be executed
in the last 10 days. She said this is why they are calling on Governor Cooper to take action so
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that executions do not resume in North Carolina. She thanked the Board for this proclamation.
She said to her knowledge, this is the first governing body to adopt a resolution like this.
Dewey Williams said he went to death row earlier in the day and had a Bible study with 15
men there. He said they all deserve life and retribution is not the avenue for our sins. He thanked
the Board for adopting this resolution tonight.
Commissioner Portie-Ascott asked what time the events start on Friday.
Sally Freeman said the walk starts at 10:00 am two miles north of Efland and the Potluck
starts that evening at 6:00 pm followed by the program at 6:30 pm.
Noelle Nickle said there is also a shuttle for those who may not be able to walk the whole
way.
e. Fire Prevention Week Proclamation
The Board approved a proclamation designating the week of October 6 through 12, 2024 as Fire
Prevention Week in Orange County.
BACKGROUND: Fire Prevention Week is celebrating its 102nd year, the longest running health
campaign, to honor the brave firefighters and first responders who risk their lives to protect us
every day and reaffirm the importance of fire safety and preparedness.
Fire Prevention Week was started by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) in 1922 to
commemorate the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. Fire Prevention Week teaches children and adults
how to stay safe in the event of a fire. In 1925, President Calvin Coolidge proclaimed the first
National Fire Prevention Week to occur from October 4 through October 10, 1925. President
Coolidge stated that, "This waste results from the conditions which justify a sense of shame and
horror; for the greater part of it could and ought to be prevented... It is highly desirable that every
effort be made to reform the conditions which have made possible so vast a destruction of the
national wealth."
The Great Chicago Fire burned from October 8 to October 10, 1871, with most of the damage
occurring on October 9th. The fire caused roughly $200 million in damages, killing approximately
300 people, and destroying over 17,000 buildings and structures. The consequences were more
than just fire damage itself, as martial law had to be declared after an outbreak of looting and
lawlessness.
Fire impacts a community financially, including lost tax revenue, reduced tourism and business
investment, downgraded bonds, and reduced real estate values. This week, all people in Orange
County should educate themselves about fire prevention and safety and recommit to taking the
necessary steps to prevent fires. The year's theme, "Smoke alarms: Make them work for you.",
serves to remind us of the importance of having working smoke alarms in the home.
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Commissioner McKee read the following proclamation:
ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
PROCLAMATION
FIRE PREVENTION WEEK
OCTOBER 6-12, 2024
WHEREAS, Orange County is committed to ensuring the safety and security of all those living in
and visiting our County; and
WHEREAS, fire is a serious public safety concern both locally and nationally, and homes are the
locations where people are at greatest risk from fire, understanding that:
• Home fires killed more than 2,700 people in the United States in 2022, according to the
National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®), and fire departments in the United
States responded to 360,000 home fires.
• Smoke alarms sense smoke well before you can, alerting you to danger in the event of
fire in which you may have as little as two minutes to escape safely.
• Working smoke alarms cut the risk of dying in reported home fires in half.
• Orange County residents should be sure everyone in the home understands the sounds
of the smoke alarms and knows how to respond.
• Orange County residents who have planned and practiced a home fire escape plan are
more prepared and will therefore be more likely to survive a fire.
• Orange County residents need to make sure their smoke and carbon monoxide (CO)
alarms meet the needs of all their family members, including those with sensory or
physical disabilities.
• Orange County first responders are dedicated to reducing the occurrence of home fires
and home fire injuries through prevention and protection education.
• Orange County residents that are responsive to public education measures are better
able to take personal steps to increase their safety from fire, especially in their homes;
and
WHEREAS, the 2024 Fire Prevention Week theme, "Smoke alarms: Make them work for you.,"
serves to remind us of the importance of having working smoke alarms in the home;
NOW THEREFORE, we, the Orange County Board of Commissioners, do hereby proclaim
October 6-12, 2024, as Fire Prevention Week throughout this community, and urge all the people
of Orange County to prepare and practice a home fire escape plan for Fire Prevention Week 2024
and to support the many public safety activities and efforts of Orange County's fire and emergency
services.
This the 1st day of October, 2024.
Jamezetta Bedford, Chair
Orange County Board of Commissioners
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A motion was made by Commissioner McKee, seconded by Commissioner Fowler, to
approve and authorize the Chair to sign the proclamation.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
Chris Pendergrass, Interim Division Chief of Fire and Life Safety thanked the Board for
approving this proclamation. On this week's theme, he shared a success story about a smoke
alarm in Orange County. He said the Fire Marshal recently installed a smoke alarm in a residence
and just weeks after that the fire department responded to a fire there. He said without that smoke
alarm alerting to an emergency, that situation could have been devastating.
Commissioner McKee announced that the Fire Departments in Orange County are doing
donation drives for victims of Hurricane Helene.
5. Public Hearings
a. Unified Development Ordinance Text Amendment— Landscaping Standards
The Board held a public hearing, received the Planning Board and staff recommendations and
public comments, closed the public hearing, and considered action on County-initiated text
amendments to the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) pertaining to Landscaping standards
to allow for better achievement of established UDO and 2030 Comprehensive Plan goals, clarify
language for improved administration and enforcement, and reflect contemporary best
professional standards.
BACKGROUND: The Orange County Planning Department initiated an amendment to the UDO
Landscaping standards, as found in Section 6.8 "Landscaping, Buffers & Tree Protection". The
proposed amendments are intended to be comprehensive in addressing overly-complex text,
improve interpretation and application for both staff and applicants, and to resolve an existing
ambiguity determined by staff and upheld by the courts regarding Table 6.8.6(D). Minor
amendments in Articles 3 and 5 are also necessary to update references and reflect amendments
in Section 6.8.
Joint Planning Area (JPA) Review: In compliance with the Orange County-Chapel Hill-Carrboro
Joint Planning Land Use Plan and Agreement, the proposed amendments were sent to both towns
for comment on March 22, 2024. To date, no comments have been received.
Planning Board Recommendation: At its September 4, 2024 meeting, the Planning Board voted
unanimously to recommend approval of the Statement of Consistency and the UDO text
amendments, with some changes to the proposed text amendments. The changes recommended
by the Planning Board have been incorporated into the proposed Ordinance contained in
Attachment 2. The Planning Board's signed Statement of Consistency and excerpt of draft
September 4, 2024 meeting minutes are included in Attachment 3. Prior to making its
recommendation, the Planning Board had reviewed the materials in an "Ordinance Review
Committee" meeting on April 3, 2024.
Planning Director's Recommendation: The Planning Director recommends approval of the:
1. Statement of Approval and Consistency indicating the text amendments are
reasonable and in the public interest, as contained in Attachment 1; and
2. Unified Development Ordinance (UDO)text amendments, as contained in Attachment
2.
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Cy Stober, Planning and Inspections Director, made the following presentation:
Slide #1
ORANGE COUNTY
NORTH CAROLINA
Item 5a
UDO Text Amendment
Landscaping Standards
Cy Stober said most of the amendments before them are administrative and overdue for
an update.
Slide #2
Purpose of Amendments
• Clarify language
—Some current language can be difficultto
interpret/enforce
• Incorporate current best practices &standards
• Resolve interpretation concerns
• Better achievement of County goals
ORANGE COUNTY
NORTH CAROLINA
14
Slide #3
Purpose of Amendments
• Clarify language
Site landseapoRg should not eenflie4 with utili
placement.
• Landscaping shall not be located on any portion of
a public or private drainage or utility easement.
ORANGE COUNTY
NORTH CAROUNA
Slide #4
Purpose of Amendments
• Incorporate current best practices&standards
If a landscape area around the foundation is not possible,as
in the case of existing buildings and parking,landscape
planters should be incorporated into the store frontage to
functionally screen the foundation from public vlewfrom
adjoiningproperties and the dedicated right of way.
ORANGE COUNTY
NORTH CAROLINA
Slide #5
Purpose of Amendments
• Better Achievement of County Goals
— Require alignment and continuity of landscaping among adjacent
properties
ORANGE COU', Y
%011in! 1111�-1
15
Slide #6
Proposed Amendments
• Articles 3 and 5 -Section reference updates and a
buffer type update
• Section 6.8. Landscaping, Buffers &Tree Protection
—Several proposed amendments have footnotes to
explain rationale.
ORANGE COUNTY
NORTH CAROLINA
Slide #7
Proposed Amendments
• 6.8.2 Applicability
—Clarify that Exempt or Expedited subdivisions are not
subject to the standards
• 6.8.4 Protection of Existing Vegetation
—Language refined for improved enforcement through the
plat/plan review
—Add tree protection fencing(during construction)
standards
ORANGE COUNTY
NORTH CAROLINA
Cy Stober said Chair Bedford reached out to him about the language being ambiguous
around the Director's discretion. He said he sent them new language that states that the Director's
discretion is tied to whether fencing should be applied to the critical root zone or tree dripline,
rather than the more ambiguous reference to "existing site conditions".
16
Slide #8
Proposed Amendments
• 6.8.5 Landscaping Standards
—Updates to clarify standards,incorporate best practices,
modernize language,and relocation of standards from a
different section
ORANGE COUNTY
NORTH CAWMNA
Slide #9
Proposed Amendments
• 6.8.6 Landscape Use Buffers
—Refinement to better distinguish the purpose and
placement of these buffers between differing land uses
—Amend Table 6.8.6.1)to exclusively focus on buffering
between different zoning districts
—Amend Table 6.8.6.F to eliminate the"Type C"buffer,
which is currently required in only 4 instances.
ORANGE COUNTY
NORTH CAROLINA
Slide #10
Proposed Amendments
—Creation of Table 6.8.6(G)"Street Tree Planting
Requirements"to require buffering along public AND
private streets
ORANGE COUNTY
NORTH CAROLINA
17
Commissioner Fowler asked if going forward there would be a Type A, B, and renamed
Type D to C or if the plan was to skip Type C.
Cy Stober said Type D could be renamed to C but that would require other text
amendments elsewhere in the document.
Commissioner Fowler said the change is not necessary.
Commissioner Hamilton said there are some differences between the current Type C and
Type D. She asked what the impacts of this proposed change will be.
Cy Stober said it is not that significant and D will provide better buffering between land
uses than what C currently does. He said C was never applied when D would not be more
protective.
Commissioner Hamilton said one of the differences is related to evergreen trees. She
asked if the higher number of trees should be brought over from C to D.
Cy Stober said he understands that the purpose is that evergreen trees grow faster. He
said through review and discussions with DEAPR, imposing the standards in D would require
more landscaping that the situations where C is being applied today. He said they could require
an evergreen in D. He said the general takeaway is that C is a smaller buffer than D and staff
believes will be a greater buffer with D than currently with C.
Slide #11
Proposed Amendments
• 6.8.9-8 Screening
—Clarify purpose and application of screening standards
is to obscure foundations and equipment of multifamily
or non-residential structures from public view
ORANGE COUNTY
NORTH CAROLINA
Slide #12
Proposed Amendments
• 6.8.19 9 Landscape and Tree Preservation Plan
—Clarify when this plan is needed and its format
ORANGE COUNTY
NORTH CAROLLNA
18
Slide #13
Proposed Amendments
• 6.8.1211 Additional Standards for Economic
Development Districts
—Elimination of standards that refer to"scenic views",
which is an undefined term in the UDO and effectively
unenforceable
ORANGE COUNTY
NORTH CAROLINA
Slide #14
Planning Director's Recommendation
The Planning Director recommends approval of the:
1. Statement of Approval and Consistency indicatingthe text
amendments are reasonable and in the public interest,as contained
in Attachment 1.
2. Unified Development Ordinance(UDO)text amendments,as
contained in Attachment2.
ORANGE COUNTY
NORTH CAROLINA
Slide #15
Planning Board's Recommendation
Planning Board Ordinance Review Committee considered draft language
at its April3,2024 meeting
Planning Board unanimously(12-0)recommended approval with
modifications(included herein)at the September 4,2024,meeting
ORANGE COUNTY
NORTH CAROLINA
19
Slide #18
Recommendation for Tonight
The Planning Director recommends the Board:
1. Consider the Planning Director's and Planning Board's
recommendations,
2. Conduct the Public Hearing and accept public comment,
3. Deliberate on the proposal,and
4. Make a recommendation to the BOCC on the Statement of Consistency
(Attachment 1)and the proposed ordinance(Attachment 2]•
ORANGE COUNTY
NORT I I CAR(I2.IN'A
Commissioner Portie-Ascott asked if there is an estimate on time-saved with these
amendments.
Cy Stober said time saved is mostly on staff's side. He said it should be clearer and easier
to enforce and approve. He said with the landscaping buffers currently required, there are several
instances where further interpretation is needed from the Director or Deputy Director. He said he
feels this is much clearer language so should also be easier for an applicant to draw up. He said
separately from this, Planning has a planting guide that promotes native plants and they have
received feedback that it provides a lot of clarity.
A motion was made by Commissioner Fowler, seconded by Commissioner Hamilton, to
open the public hearing.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
There was no one signed up to speak.
A motion was made by Commissioner Fowler, seconded by Commissioner Hamilton, to
close the public hearing.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
A motion was made by Vice-Chair Greene, seconded by Commissioner Richards, to
approve the Statement of Consistency (Attachment 1) and the ordinance (Attachment 2) with the
following changes:
• 6.8.5(A)(3), deletion of the letter "e" in the word "ore"
• 6.8.9(A)(1), "When considering Section 6.8.5(A)(6) and (7) and Section 6.8.9(C)(6) during
review of the landscape and tree preservation plan, the Planning Director may add
additional tree protection areas when determining the exact location of any tree protection
fencing."
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
20
b. Public Hearing on the 2025 Reappraisal Proposed Schedules of Rules, Standards, and
Values
The Board conducted a scheduled public hearing on the 2025 Reappraisal Proposed Schedules
of Rules, Standards and Values.
BACKGROUND: As required by North Carolina General Statutes(NCGS) 105-317, the proposed
Schedules of Values (SOV) to be used in conducting the 2025 reappraisal were submitted to the
Board of County Commissioners at the September 5, 2024 Business meeting. At that time, a
public hearing was set for October 1, 2024. Notice was subsequently advertised in the News and
Observer on September 6, 2024, and the News of Orange on September 11, 2024. The proposed
Schedules have been available for public inspection in the Orange County Tax Office, Orange
County Clerk to the Board's Office, the Orange County Public Library in Hillsborough, and on the
Orange County Tax Office website (available at
https://www.orangecountync.gov/878/Revaluation) since September 5, 2024.
This public hearing is the second step in a three-step process to adopt the Schedules that will be
used in conducting the 2025 reappraisal. The Board will be asked to adopt the Schedules at its
October 15, 2024 Business meeting. Following adoption, the Schedules will be appealable to the
State Property Tax Commission for thirty (30) days.
The timeline for the 2025 Reappraisal Schedule of Values adoption process is as follows:
a. September 5, 2024: Submission to Orange County Board of Commissioners
b. September 6, 2024: Advertise in local newspapers
c. October 1, 2024: Public Hearing on SOV
d. October 15, 2024: Adoption of SOV
e. October 16, 2024: Publish 1st notice of adoption
f. October 23, 2024: Publish 2nd notice of adoption
g. October 30, 2024: Publish 3rd notice of adoption
h. November 6, 2024: Publish 4th notice of adoption
i. November 15, 2024: Last day for taxpayer to appeal the SOV
A reappraisal, or revaluation, is the process of updating real property tax values to reflect fair
market value, the most probable price a property would bring at sale in an open and competitive
market. It includes all residential and commercial land and structures. The effective date of the
upcoming reappraisal is January 1, 2025. The primary goal is to equalize the tax base, so that
the property tax burden is spread equitably across all taxpayers.
Revaluations are conducted by applying mass appraisal techniques. Mass appraisal is the
process of appraising a large number of properties as of a given effective date, using data
standardized methods, and statistical analysis to arrive at uniform and equitable values.
The 2025 revaluation work is 75-80% complete. A substantial consideration for the upcoming
revaluation is the fact that the residential market has increased at record levels since 2021
throughout North Carolina. The current estimate of overall real property value increase is 43%,
with jurisdictions ranging from 40 to 52%. In comparison, the average real property value increase
countywide for the 2021 revaluation was just over 20%.
It is worth noting that the commercial market has grown substantially in Orange County as well.
There are roughly 2,160 commercial properties, and the valuations are approximately 80%
complete. The commercial consultant retained by the Country anticipates a roughly $1 billion
21
increase overall in commercial values. This represents an average increase of approximately
23%.
The Tax Office will provide a final revaluation presentation to the Board of Commissioners in
January 2025. Revaluation Notices will be mailed out mid-March 2025, and the planned deadline
for informal appeals is April 20, 2025. The Board of Equalization and Review (BOER)will convene
on May 5, 2025 to receive and hear formal appeals, with June 30, 2025 as the planned deadline
for filing a formal appeal. The BOER will continue to meet through the fall of 2025 to consider all
timely filed formal appeals.
Nancy Freeman, Tax Administrator, made the following presentation:
Slide #1
2025 Reappraisal
Schedule of Rules,
Standards &
Values
October i,2024
Nancy Freeman,Tax Administrator
Slide #2
An appraisal"toolbox".5hows appraisal system contents,
i.e.calculation tables,codes,etc.
Explains methodcicgy and pTocedure5for appraisal at
market value and present use value where appropriate
What is
Guide to ensure that same standards are app]ied to all
the prop e rty in the County to keep val ues equitable
Schedules
ofValues property which will be in effect until the next Revaluation
•
North Carolina Statutes include provisions for review,public hearing and
approval of SOV_
Tax Assessor must submit SDV to the Board of County Commissioners
(BOCC)at least n days before being adopted by BOCC
Schedules
A public hearing must be scheduled at least 7 days before adoption.
of Values
SOV must be adopted by the BOCC before January�ofthe year applied
(January�,zoz53 Upon adoption,the notice of adoption must be
advertised for 4 weeks.
The SOV can be appealed to the North Carolina Property Tax Commission
22
Slide#3
for 3o days.
Slide
September 5,2024:Submission of Schedules of
Valuesto Board of County Commissioners
September 6,202 :Advertising notice published
in News of Orange and News &observer
•
October •24:Public hearing
Schedule of * October I[;,2024�Adoption of Schedules
Values 0
October 16.2024: • • notice
Adoption * October 23r6, 2024,2"advertising notice
to the NC PropertyTax • •
23
Slide #5
Residential Revaluation Example
• Subject property:
• Located inThe Meadows in Mebane.The
Meadows is a Market Area or
Neighborhood forthe 2o25 Revaluation.
• Sold for$296,000 in June 2020
• 2021 was assessed at$304,000
• Its sales ratio at 2021 Revaluation equaled
103%($304,0001$296,000)
• Sold for$395,000 in March of zozo
• The current sales ratio is approximately
77%
Roger Gunn, Real Property Appraisal Manager, continued the presentation.
Slide #6
Residential Revaluation Example
(continued)
• 2025 Land Sales analysis
• Transfers of vacant lots average sale price of$85,000
• A lot value of$85,000 was established for this neighborhood
• 2025 Quality Grade analysis
• Homes in The Meadows show inconsistences in grade from B-i5
to B+10 using the 2021 Schedule of Values
• For 2025 grade B-o5 was selected as the quality grade to be
applied to all homes,with application of design factors as
necessary to account for homes with significantly more or less
features
24
Slide #7
A
4ti Residential Revaluation Example
(continued)
• Value of the Subject property
• Land value was set to s85,000
• Building grade was changed from B+io to B-05
• No other changes were made to the residence
• A storage building was added to the record
• The resulting new value is$394,400
• The new sales ratio is 99.8%based on its 2024 sale
Commissioner Hamilton said it is helpful to have this example to really understand the
process. She asked how staff will know the design features of the home.
Roger Gunn said a lot of this information is available from online property listings or by
comparing sales prices of otherwise similar homes (from the exterior).
Commissioner Hamilton asked what determines building grade vs. B+10, etc.
Roger Gun said the building grade takes into account the construction quality as well as
the location. He gave the example of two similar homes in different neighborhoods selling at
$450,000 vs. $400,000. He said in that case you cannot put all the difference in value in the land,
so they pick a higher grade to capture the locational differences.
Commissioner Hamilton asked about the average applied to the neighborhood.
Roger Gunn said a best fit test is done. He said some homes will be around 100% of
market value, some may be less, or some may be more, but as long as the ratio of the
neighborhood as a whole falls within a certain range, it is acceptable according to the necessary
standards.
Nancy Freeman said it is important to keep in mind that this is a mass appraisal process.
25
Slide #8
Purpose isto bring orange In 2003 state law updated
County manufactured homes to betterdefine
into compliancewith the manufactured home
current legal requirements. classification as real or
Manufactured personal property.NCGS
Home
cos-273(r31
cation
.Project
� r
Current data indicatesthat8g The property classification
will move from Personal to affects the appraisal proce5s,
Realand zog will mcvefrom listing requirements,and
Real to Personal. collection remedies.
Nancy Freeman continued the presentation.
Slide#9
Manufactured Home Classification
Figure 1. Classification of manufactured homes as real ar personal properly(GS.105-21301)}
ResidNW YES Wdr, YES;;t
y�sdu[t ? whedi,anda>des nsmaacd?NO NOhtrmlhoperty
Real pmp"
26
Slide#10
Northside Neighborhood
a M
TAX OFFICE STAFF DATA SHARING WORK WITH STAFF HAS
HAS METWITH BETWEEN JACKSON CENTER WORKEDTO
JACKSON CENTER NORTH TO PROVIDE REFINE
2TIMES SINCE CAROLINA COMMUNITY NORTHSIDE
BEGINNING HOUSING OUTREACH: PROPERTY DATA
WORKONTHE COALITION& TAX REVALUATION, THROUGH
REVALUATION, OFFICE. TAXASSISTANCE, DELINEATION.
PAYMENT
OPTIONS.
Slide#11
Customer Service &
Community Outreach
• Interactive websites to assist in ' March 2023:44,000 Data Validation
reviewing property values: Forms mailed
• Property Record Card • Revaluation Insert in 2024 Bills
• Orange Public Camper * Community engagement with
Community Relations& community
• General Contact Email: leaders:
tax(a)orangecountync.gov ' Revaluation
Property Tax Relief
• Dedicated Revaluation Email: • Payment Options
Payment Coupon Insert in 2024 Tax
• Bills
Assistance by phone:gsg-245- 0
Nextdoor&Facebook to share
23.00,option 2 information
' Revaluation Website& ' Google&Bing online business
Revaluation video: profiles updated,can be used by
rc P�I.jfv,vvvv.o,angecountync.go people whose native language is not
vl8781Revaluation English.
Commissioner Richards commended staff and said the outreach efforts to educate the
public seem great.
27
A motion was made by Chair Bedford, seconded by Commissioner Hamilton, to open the
public hearing.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
There was no one signed up to speak.
A motion was made by Chair Bedford, seconded by Commissioner Fowler, to close the
public hearing.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
6. Regular Agenda
a. Greene Tract— Community Engagement, Master Plan, and Next Steps
The Board received reports from the consultant teams and staff on the Greene Tract community
engagement effort, resultant Master Plan, and next steps towards development of the Greene
Tract, and approved a Resolution.
BACKGROUND: In late 2023, Orange County contracted with Gensler to provide community
engagement services for a Greene Tract Master Plan. In early 2024, the County contracted with
Thomas & Hutton to provide design services for a Greene Tract Master Plan. These contracts
were entered into with the support of the joint property owners, the Towns of Chapel Hill and
Carrboro, which have paid 43% and 14%, respectively, of the contract costs. The two consultant
teams and staffs of the three local governments have been working together with the community
throughout 2024 to create a Master Plan for development of the Greene Tract.
A website is maintained that contains additional history and information on the Greene Tract:
https://www.orangecountync.gov/3070/Greene-Tract. The 2024 Master Plan effort included the
following activities, which are available for viewing at the link immediately above:
• Three (3) well attended community workshops
o April 14, June 9, and September 22, 2024
• Monthly Engagement Team meetings. (The Engagement Team includes residents of the
Rogers-Eubanks community.)
• Monthly Newsletters
• Stakeholder Interviews
• Community Engagement Insights Report
The Master Plan contained in Attachment 1 is the result of the 2024 community engagement
efforts to produce a Master Plan created and supported by the community, with the goal of
eventually developing affordable housing and other appropriate uses on the property. The Master
Plan contains the following features:
• Housing
o Detached Residential (Single-family and 2-family): 100 - 150 units, 750 — 2,000
square feet per unit
o Attached Residential (Townhomes): 95 - 160 units, 750 — 2,000 square feet per
unit
o Multi-family Residential (Apartments/Condominiums) and Parking Areas: 270 -
360 units, 500 — 2,000 square feet per unit in 3 - 4 story buildings
• Non-Residential / Civic/ Commercial
o 10,000 — 25,000 square feet per building, 1 - 2 story buildings
28
• Street Network and Connections to Existing Roadways
• Pedestrian (Sidewalk/Trail / Greenway) Network and Connections to Surrounding Area
o Parking Area for Trailhead
• Parks and Open Space, including Orchard Areas and Community Garden Areas
• Stormwater Facilities
The Gensler and Thomas & Hutton consultant teams will present summaries of their work at three
meetings of the local governments:
• October 1, 2024 — Orange County BOCC
• October 9, 2024 — Chapel Hill Town Council
• October 15, 2024 — Carrboro Town Council
Next Steps
With a community-supported Master Plan near completion, the need to conduct a financial
feasibility analysis of the Master Plan was identified. To this end, Orange County, with the support
of the Towns of Chapel Hill and Carrboro, entered into a contract with the Development Finance
Initiative (DFI) at the UNC School of Government in September 2024. DFI will conduct several
iterations of the financial feasibility analysis, at varying levels of affordability, so that informed
decisions can be made by the property owners (the three local governments) regarding
development of the property. The contract with Thomas & Hutton was also amended and
extended to provide any necessary modifications to the Master Plan that result from the financial
feasibility analysis. DFI will also eventually market the project to private sector developers (both
non-profit and for-profit)who would construct the Master Plan.
Additionally, the "entitlement process" (zoning approval) with the Town of Chapel Hill will begin
shortly. The zoning approval process will be achieved via a "Development Agreement."
Annexation of the property into the Chapel Hill town limits will also occur. The timeline in
Attachment 2 includes 2024 and upcoming work.
Resolution
The Resolution supporting the Master Plan (Attachment 1) is to be adopted by the three local
governments at the respective meeting dates listed above.
Attachment 3 is the Town of Carrboro's "Pocket Questions,"which are part of the Town's agenda
items, and is provided to ensure all three governing boards receive the same information.
29
Cy Stober and Perdita Holtz, Deputy Director, Long-Range Planning & Administration,
made the following presentation:
Slide #1
ORANGE COUNTY
NORTH CAROLINA
Greene Tract — Community
Engagement, Master Plan,
and Next Steps
Board of County Commissioners
October 1, 2024
Cy Stober continued the presentation.
Slide #2
Tonight's Presentation
• Jointly owned 107-acre parcel
• Completing consultant portion of community engagement
process
• Sharing community created master plan
• Engaging with Development Finance Initiative
• Beginning zoning approval process
ORANGE COUNTY
NORTH CAROLINA
Cy Stober said this portion completes the consultant's community engagement process.
He said that this is not the end of discussing the Greene Tract but rather the end of the beginning.
He said that more data will be forthcoming from DTI and planning staff in the future.
30
Slide #3
Schedule for Property Owner
(Local Governments) Consideration
• October 1 , 2024 - Orange County BOCC
• October 9, 2024 - Chapel Hill Town Council
• October 15, 2024 - Carrboro Town Council
ORANGE COUNTY
NORTH CAROLINA
Slide #4
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
GREENE TRACT
COMMUNITY
ENGAGEMENT
0110 '_.
MM on
Jessica Pearson, Project Manager at Gensler continued the presentation.
31
Slide #5
TRUST • Truth • Respect • Unity • Safety Transformafion
Community Engagement Consultant Team
TA Y yaj 9
W H
G V
u Jessica Pearson Nicole Bennett a Dionne Hines Jordan Powell
W W
Project Manager& Engagement/Equity W Equitable Co- Transportation Planning
o Main Point of Contact Advisor Production Strategist & Facilitation
a
Elaine Asal Mikayla Regan Buchanan
Engagement Lead Hernandez Community Planning&
Community Facilitator Engagement
Gensler -d,b cr«a<TmdCommunityEngagement s
Slide #6
TRUST Truth • Respect U rty Safety • Transfprmapon
Master Planning Project Overview
Orange County,the Town of Chapel Hill, and the Approved Conceptual Land Use, t�
Town of Carrboro launched a ten-month process plan,November o21
to create a shared vision and master plan for the
Greene Tract, an approximately 167-acre area
that will be host to a mix of uses, including:
-- — Derelop- 1
• Development,which may consist of ment '
I
affordable and market rate housing,low = Development
t
intensity commercial,service uses, and
maker/incubator space
• Environmental preservation
• Public school and recreational site r
rr '
Gensler `%b Gm—Tract Community Engapar— 5
32
Slide #7
TRUST Truth • Respect • Unity • Safety • Transformation
Greene Tract Engagement Team
The Engagement Team has worked alongside the project ENGAGEMENT TEAM
consultants to plan engagement and outreach with the
community, including workshops, newsletters, and more. Cy Stober,Orange County
Perdita Holtz,Orange County
Consistent with the 2021 Interlocal Agreement among Orange Judy Johnson, Town of Chapel Hid
County,the Town of Chapel Hill, and the Town of Carrboro, Jacob Hunt, Town of Chapel Hill
the Engagement Team is led by staff from: Britany Waddell,Town of Chapel Hill
• Sarah Vinas,Town ofChapelHill
• Trish McGuire, Town of Carrboro
• The three (3)jurisdictions, in partnership with Marty Roupe,Town of Carrboro
• Rogers Eubanks Neighborhood Association (RENA) Duncan Dodson,Town of Carrboro
• Al Ciarochi,CHCCS
• Affordable housing partners Jackie Jenks,OCAHC&1FC
• A representative from Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools George Barrett,OCAHC
• Brother Campbell,RENA
David Caldwell,RENA
• Karen Reid,RENA
-__ Gensler`Ab T.aa con .-y 8ngag-- 1 7
Slide #8
TRUST • Toth • Respect • Unity • Safety • Tr fprmapan
Community Engagement Overview
Our Community Engagement effort has
followed the duration of the planning and �� ■
design process.We have:
• Collected and documented the collective
vision for the Greene Tract Master Plan
—
• Coordinated with the design team to
ensure the community's vision is
reflected in the Conceptual Master Plan + -
t• +I
• Hosted workshops to share back I ,
progress on the design and development - 0 '1
of the Conceptual Master Plan '
�>k
-_ Gensler -vhb Gm-,Tractcammunity engagcment 1 8
33
Slide #9
TRUST Truth • Respect • Unity • Safety • Transformation
Community Engagement Strategy
Engagement Goals Strategies to Achieve Them
D Build upon previous efforts to develop an engagement process that Created a timeline and collaborated with the Engagement
1 acknowledges the history of the parcel,recognizes and repairs previous Team to identify key community and planning events
harm to the community,and advances the intent to provide certain land Included the Approved Conceptual Land Use Plan in all
uses on the Greene Tract. presentations and communications about the Master Plan
Elevate the voices of the historic Rogers Road and Eubanks Road Members of the Engagement Team were identified based on
O community to ensure their priorities shape every part of the master their relationships with the historic RENA community
planning process. Data gathering techniques were implemented in workshops to
elevate the voice of the historic RENA community
O A variety of communication methods,including virtual and in
3 Make the master planning process accessible and engaging through clear person events,were used to share project updates
communication,collaboration,and transparency. Promotional materials were translated into multiple languages
Insights Report was written using accessible,clear language
Engage across a variety of stakeholder groups to gain widespread A variety of communication methods were used to reach a
awareness and understanding of the ideas generated through the planning broad group of stakeholders
process,as well as what the development of the property will look like. Email addresses were collected at all workshops to build a
distribution list for project newsletters and updates
o Data gathering techniques were implemented in workshops to
5 Ensure that the population reached equitably represents directly impacted elevate the voice of the historic RENA community
residents nearby. A postcard campaign was implemented to reach residents
Yard signs were placed throughout the community
'lip ® o_�.����...�..° Gensler"vhb. G--T—t C.—iry mgag.— s
Slide #10
TRUST Truth • Respect • Unity • Safety Transformation
Community Engagement Activities
11 150+ F
1 7 10
Stakeholders Workshop Phoenix Place Monthly I Engagement
Interviewed Attendees Focus Group Newsletters Team Meetings
Nearby property Identifying the Engaging with Sharing project Finalizing
owners,affordable community's vision residents to updates, workshop details,
housing and documenting determine their advertising for reviewing public-
representatives,St. feedback to bring it priorities,concerns, community facing materials,
Paul AME,RENA, to life in the and opportunities workshops,and and co-creatinga
and greenspace Greene Tract for the Greene highlighting the successful
advocates Master Plan Tract Master Plan Guiding Principles engagement
for the Master Plan process
oo
Gensler =vhb Green.T—CammunityEngagement 1 10
34
Slide #11
TRUST Truth • Respect • Unity • Safety • Transformation
Stakeholder Interviews
11 Several semi-structured individual and small group interviews were
hosted to understand the history,stories, challenges, and opportunities
related to the development and Master Plan project.
Stakeholders
Interviewed
Nearby property Interview Process&Outcomes Top Themes
owners,affordable
housing 1. Pre-Interview Questionnaire RENA Partnerships&History
representatives,St. 2. In Person Interview Affordable Housing
Paul AME,RENA, 3. Narrative Analysis to Identify Themes Traffic&Transportation
and greenspace 4. Workshop 1 Planning Greenspace&Biodiversity
advocates Common Group
Stakeholder interviews played a large role Building Community
in defining the main topics that were
discussed at Workshop 1.
u r Gensler-Ab_ Gee TCo —iLy Rugsgemenh u
Slide #12
TRUST Truth • Respect • Unity • Safety • Transformation
Community Workshops
Three community workshops were hosted, during which attendees had
15 0+
the opportunity to share their perspectives and feedback on Master Plan
progress.This feedback was critical for developing Guiding Principles.
Workshop
Attendees
Identifying the Workshop 1 Workshop 2 Workshop 3
community's vision
and documenting Designing our Shared Creating a Shared Vision Understanding the Shared
feedback to bring it Vision for Development for Our Community Vision for Our Community
to life in the
Greene Tract Discussions about Review of draft • Conceptual Master
Master Plan Housing,Community Master Plan concepts Plan review
Development,and
Connectivity&Open Evaluating how the • Gathering feedback for
Space concepts addressed future engagement
the Guiding Principles
• Uncovering the
community's vision
Gensler 9vhb Gree.e Tract Community Mpgement 1 12
35
Slide #13
TRUST Truth • Respect • Unity • Safety • Transformation
Phoenix Place Focus Group
1 A focus group was held with Phoenix Place residents to discuss Greene
Tract stories, community development,connectivity&open space, and
housing,This session increased Phoenix Place attendance at Workshop 2,
Phoenix Place
Focus Group
Engaging with Priorities Concerns Opportunities
residents to
determine their Maintaining buffer Impact of traffic on Additional access
priorities,concerns, between existing& residential streets points into the new
new development development to
and opportunities Ability for existing alleviate traffic on
for the Greene Mirroringthe rural residents to access
Tract Master Plan characterof the resources within the Purefoy Drive
existing community new development Virtual engagement
• Addressing the needs • Affordabilityof to gather feedback
.�_ of families/residents in housing from other Phoenix
the existing • Loss of trees Place residents
community
® Gensler-Alb Greece Trait commo.:ry eng.geme�t 1 tg
Slide #14
TRUST Truth • Respect • Unity • Safety Transformaton
Promotional Materials
The following materials were - f� ut�
developed to advertise for the ems=•
three community workshops:
TGREENE TRACT TALLER
OMMUNITY COMUNITARIODE
• Banners ORKSHOPS GREENS rllacr
• Yard signs o °®�� GREENS TRACT
- COMMUNITY
WORKSHOP
• Multi-lingual flyers Ho•
(included in RENA food l �.�..e" " •° °m°°° p ..,w...... W
drives, posted online, and _—
distributed through local GREENETRACT
community organizations} COMMUNITY i/olN us! • -
WORKSHOP f ..l _
• Postcard campaign April r4
Let'plan for the future of e
ourcommumty,together. hs>yeB --
_ `.... is crew
• Monthly newsletters
Gensler -wwy, G.....T...t Commenity E gagemeat 1 14
36
Slide#15
CREATING
•
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
APPLYING THE
11111111111110
Qry.. Gensler 4(A*
Jordan Powell continued the presentation.
Slide #16
TRUST Truth • Respect • Unity • Safety • Transformation
Our Engagement Process & Outcomes
Using the information we gathered from our engagement activities and background
research, we developed a set of Overarching Insights,which informed the Guiding
Principles used by Thomas& Hutton to create the Conceptual Master Plan.
Inputs Overarching
(What We Heard) Insight A
Guiding
-
Inputs Overarching
(What We Heard) Insight B
Gensler`"hb. Greeae Tray cnmmamty 2 gagemeat 1 16
37
Slide #17
TRUST • Truth • Respect • Unity • Safety • Transformation
Guiding Principles for the Master Plan
01 02 03 04
Activate strategic Use built elements in Provide services and Establish building
locations throughout the public realm to resources within scaling and housing
the development for honor and respect the walking distance that density that build on
common uses that Historic Rogers-Eubanks support youth,families, the strengths of the
�a�
community's rich, and the abilityfor surrounding
cultural history. seniors to age in place. neighborhood.
05 06 07 08
Prioritize rented and Provide a network of Minimize the impact of Use natural and
Owned affordable safe,connected streets roads and development paved surfaces to
housing and support and public transit to on the natural provide outdoor
space for small enable mobility for ecosystem within the recreation
businesses. residents of all ages preserve area. Opportunities and
and abilities. connect to nearby
Gensler-Ab G. Trait comn.nnity Eng.gement 1 17
Slide #18
TRUST Truth • Respect Unity • Safety • Transformation
Applying the Guiding Principles
The Guiding Principles served as a north star for all engagement activities following Workshop 1.
---- k ---------------- V ---------------- --------------- ----
Initial Insights Workshop 2 Analysis&Synthesis Workshop 3
The Guiding Principles Printed diagrams showed Feedback from Workshop The Guiding Principles
were shared with how the Guiding Principles 2 was categorized into the were again used to
Thomas&Hutton to were created;then,the eight Guiding Principles; evaluate the updated
use as a framework for concept plan options were this feedback was then Conceptual Master Plan,
developing two concept evaluated through the lens used as a basis for with open house
plan options for the of how they did or did not Conceptual Master Plan discussions centered on
Master Plan. address the Guiding updates. the ways they were
Principles. addressed.
Gensler 9vhb Greene Tract Community Engagement 1 to
38
Slide #19
TRUST • Truth Aespert • Unity - Safety • Transfo—C—
Community Engagement Insights Report
The Insights Report is a comprehensive summary of the community engagement process and feedback on
the Greene Tract Conceptual Master Plan. It is available for public viewing on the Greene Tract web page.
From Concept Plan
JJ QuWIn;TAnclpks to Master Plan
- ---- -""'--' Planning Canceph -- --
_ - WerHhop Ove rview '-'-'--"--
--
Greene Tract Master Plan -
Community Engagement
Insights Report
Gensler,-W. crane Traa cnmmnnity Eneaaemenr I ry
Slide #20
Greene Tract Master Plan Team
F kr
Dan Jewell Jeremy Anderson Wendi Ramsden Gradey Grumman
Regional Landscape Landscape Designer
Director Architect Architect
T THOMAS
Greene Tract Master Plan HUTTON.
Dan Jewell, Regional Director at Thomas & Hutton, continued the presentation.
39
Slide #21
r :ltliri�
W3
t
f asauq a-rn r-.•a s`r I
__ _ . _ -��._ !.♦ - +ft'! flora. 1
Context Map {{{ T THOMAS
GrePnp Tract Mastpr PI; N HUTTON.
Dan Jewell said that the Master Plan Area in the middle is to a scale similar to other
neighborhoods in the area but is very compact in the number and type of housing.
Slide #22
f
Master Plan T THOMAS
Greene TraIT9Wter Plan
Dan Jewell said the blue areas represent stormwater management. He said the yellow
areas represent lower density, 1-2 family homes, beige represents higher density townhomes,
and bright orange represents apartments. He said that the plan creates a wooded buffer area for
neighbors on Purefoy Road.
40
Slide#23
D .•
' r
u
Ez..
Open Space Elements �J THOMAS
��Wlct MAter rl HUTTON.
Dan Jewell said that there will be a center courtyard, community playground, active
recreation areas, pocket parks, orchards, and stormwater ponds.
Slide #24 \
1
Vehicular Connections �TJ THOMAS
Greene Tract Master Plan
H HUTTON.
Dan Jewell said there will be low volume, low density roads.
41
Slide #25
2-way street
One lane each way
No street parking
Sidewalks one or both sides
2-way street
One lane each way
Street parking - parallel
Sidewalks both sides
1-way street
One travel lane
Street parking - diagonal
Sidewalks both sides
Sample Road Sections — - T THOMAS
Greene Tract Master Plan H HUTTON■
Slide #26
MM
o „
�V
* I
Pedestrian Network T THOMAS
HUTTON■
Greene Tract Master Plan
Slide42
roo n�
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^� POO CI i ru wwc rr.u+m .Vw'r wa wnnc�r.1•urrt,W�r�,ua
•.�� l - - ; �__—�� rVH pSa[Nlort,n,ClaV nHoe �Mlnua � Inv,
C ja•m w,esVW wm�riw wuxroitw�,w� 'H Mir ACN
j �ro
I
�, � /i/ „.f¢f'rt,uln wn rufiH„aa ' aCCaWr Owrr,w4 Wirt wawosuvacrawuc, /•
r '^t POD et
y/ '•.� tiN iaalwyYlrorl�'~••J•
Vwrwe Iw'i w pmv r
ra��Y nm"pnw
• • Use • / •
Greene •
r r ■ r
Dan Jewell said that there is the potential for commercial buildings in the middle brown
•- #28
47
r
P
Conceptual with RogersRoad • • ••Greene •
r Master Plan HUTTON
43
Slide #29
Greene Tract Master Plan Phase and Upcoming Phases
Master Plan Phase Future Phases
Connectivity Framework Refinement to street&pedestrian
network
General Use Types Use Types and ranges
General Location of Uses Zoning Approval:
Quantity Ranges Transit stops
Conceptual Stormwater location Greenways, sidewalks, and trail
locations
Conceptual Utility locations Traffic Impact Analysis
• Environmental and cultural
standards
• Fire standards
• Scale of development
• Recreation &buffers
ORANGE COUNTY
NORTH CAROLINA
Perdita Holtz continued the presentation. She said there is information in the abstract
about types of residential units that would be in each pod. She said that total residential units are
between 465 and 670. She said she wants to call it a community-supported master plan because
the community has worked hard on these recommendations and been great partners. She said
that this is a continuing process and there is a potential master plan that the owners will adopt.
She said that there will be more specific information brought forward in the future. She said that
there is a required zoning approval through the Town of Chapel Hill, and this will require zoning
approval. She said it will require that the owners submit a development agreement. She said the
zoning approval will be very specific about locations for greenways and trail locations. She said
that the master plan has the outline, but the zoning approval will have the specifics. She said
there may be a traffic impact analysis necessary at some point. She said that DFI will help staff
continue the community engagement conducted thus far to keep community updated.
professional staff of property experts are meeting with technical experts like for fire standards and
parks and rec standards.
44
Slide #30
Greene Tract Anticipated Timeline—Next Steps
2024 2025
Ian Feh Mar Api May tun July Aug Sry Oct Nw N, - Feb M. Apr Mry lun 1u1, Aug Sap Oet Nor per
Community Engagement&Communication
---------------------------------------------------
Conceptual Master Plan Consultant support as needed �
Financial Analysis
Chapel Hill Zoning Approval
ORANGE COUNTY
NORTH CAROLINA
Slide #31
Recommendation for Tonight
1 . Receive the reports from the consultant
teams and staff; and
2. Approve the resolution in Attachment 1 .
ORANGE COUNTY
NORTH CAROLINA
Commissioner Richards asked for the anticipated date of completing the development
agreement.
Perdita Holtz says the goal is ambitious and they hope by September 2025.
Commissioner Fowler asked if there will be an exit on the east side of the development.
45
Chair Bedford said they are aware of the concerns and wonder how they may address
those issues.
Dan Jewell said there is a connection to Purefoy Road to the west, two on the east, and
parallel to the railroad tracks that connect Merrin Road to Homestead Road. He said they have
also shown a future connection across the railroad right of way and this would require approval in
the future. He said there is also a connection to Lizzie Lane and another that goes to the north
and west that connects to county property. He said there are six eventual entrance and exit roads
coming in with two readily available now and the others would be addressed with right of way
acquisition.
Commissioner Fowler said they should be there now rather than waiting.
Perdita Holtz said that part of this will depend on what the approval from Chapel Hill. She
said the intention is to have multiple exits as construction begins. She said they will find out more
about costs as part of the DFI analysis.
Chair Bedford said that she thought that you cannot build a building unless there are two
exits.
Perdita Holtz said that is true because of a fire standard.
Commissioner Fowler said she sees trails and asked if they exist or envisioned.
Dan Jewell said these are envisioned.
Perdita Holtz said that DEAPR is working on a preservation plan and trails may be part of
that.
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Jenny Qusenberry said she lives in Phoenix Place and is on the HOA board. She said that
her house is on the corner of Phoenix and Lizzie. She said she attended all three community
engagement meetings. She said she supports more affordable housing and wants to do due
diligence to steer the project in a way that benefits her neighborhood. She said that the
neighborhood wants a large buffer of untouched trees between Phoenix Place and the
development. She said that they do not want to see new houses through the trees. She asked
the BOCC to only approve plans that have a thick buffer of trees along Phoenix Place.
Abel Hastings said there are two issues he has with the plans. He said it addresses
affordable housing but makes a mockery of preserves by having two through roads. He said it
feels like bait and switch to the public. He said running a road through the Nevelle property, owned
by Orange County, would have been a better solution. He said the current plan will funnel 100s
of cars through Rogers Road. He said that the Carolina North Forest is a preserved land, but is a
voluntary preservation and that it is on the short list for the next home of the Dean Dome now.
Elizabeth Young said she has attended all meetings and workshops and feels there was
a lot of community involvement and input and feels staff and consultants did a good job of hearing
priorities and concerns from the community.
Chair Bedford said there will be other rounds of public engagement. She asked about
planned buffers.
Dan Jewell said earlier plans had lower density residential closer to the houses on Phoenix
and this plan puts a buffer of trees around existing neighborhoods.
Chair Bedford said she was at the Durham-Chapel Hill Metropolitan Planning Organization
meeting, and they are working on animal corridors. She said she appreciates all of the input from
the community and said she likes the concept of this plan. She asked if staff will be the ones
involved with Chapel Hill zoning process.
Perdita Holtz said yes. She said at some point an application will have to be signed off on
by the property owners. She said that they will need substantively the same resolution between
owners.
Vice-Chair Greene thanked everyone involved with this plan.
46
Commissioner Hamilton said she attended all three community workshops and said she
appreciated the way they were conducted. She said this is a compromise with getting enough
affordable housing and transportation and they have done a good job.
A motion was made by Vice-Chair Greene, seconded by Commissioner Hamilton, to
approve the resolution in Attachment 1.
Commissioner Richards asked if they feel they have achieved the goals on slide 6.
Cy Stober said this conceptual land use plan was approved by all three owners and was
guiding assumptions through engagement and master plan.
Commissioner Fowler asked if there is a percentage for affordable or if they are waiting to
see what is affordable for jurisdictions.
Chair Bedford said when the MMC met with the Planning Staff, they accelerated that there
should be a fiscal analysis. She said that one might be they do not move forward with anything.
Commissioner Fowler said that she wants to make sure that if affordable housing is not
achievable that they do not feel they have to continue due to costs already spent.
Vice-Chair Greene said it is important to have a realistic goal.
Chair Bedford said county has $5 million set aside to help assist with this goal.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
Commissioner Portie-Ascott said in speaking about different populations she hopes
affordable housing is not being limited to those groups.
b. Child Care Subsidy Assistance Update
The Board received an update on the current fund availability for childcare subsidy and to
considered options for service delivery for the remainder of the fiscal year.
BACKGROUND: Orange County's Department of Social Services (DSS) provides child care
subsidy and social casework services for families, including information and referral services to
help parents determine appropriate child care placements. The objectives of this program are to:
• Provide subsidies for high quality child care for low-income working families, children
involved in child welfare cases, and other at-risk children in Orange County.
• Assure that eligible employed parents wait less than six months to receive child care
subsidy.
• Utilize all available federal and state funds to support child care needs of local children.
In FY 2024-2025, Social Services will receive $6,700,396 in Federal and State funds, including
$600,000 in Smart Start funds and $1,275,559 in County funds,for a total of$7,975,955 budgeted
for child care subsidies. Through these funding sources, Orange County is currently serving
approximately 637 children each month, including paying the parent portion of the fee for
attendance.
The average monthly cost per child for subsidy has increased significantly over time. In 2019, the
DSS share averaged around $700 per month, and the current average is $1,100 per month.
Several factors have impacted these costs, including a market rate increase in 2022 and changes
in eligibility and parent fees for afterschool care. The previous averages had more afterschool
children (who have lower costs) and now a larger portion of the children are 0-5 year olds with full
time care. The rates vary based on age of the child and the star rating of the child care program.
For example, the current market rate for 3-5-year-old children in a four-star program is $1,308
per month.
47
During the pandemic, there was a decrease in demand for child care while there was an increase
in funds available. Some of these funds were allowed to cover parent fees, helping low-income
families return to employment. Orange County has continued paying parent fees to support low-
income working families at a cost of approximately $67,000 per month after Covid relief for fees
ended. This combination has resulted in insufficient funding to continue the current level of child
care subsidy service in Orange County.
Orange County has a long history of supporting low-income families through childcare subsidies.
The Board appointed a task force to study the issues in 2005 and has continued to recognize the
importance of child care for employment, child safety, school readiness and child development.
At times, the wait list for child care has grown to over 300 children with working families waiting
for years to receive support. In Fiscal Year 2015-16, the BOCC increased County support for
subsidy, and the waiting list was eliminated. Additional funds were added in subsequent years to
address the increased demand. There has not been a wait list since 2017.
The Social Services Board discussed the child care issue at its September 16, 2024 meeting, and
voted to ask the Board of Commissioners to consider Option 2 in the Manager's
Recommendations.
Nancy Coston, DSS Director, reviewed the background information for the item. She
shared that the following options are presented for the Board's consideration:
Option 1 — End parent fees effective November 30, 2024, and begin a waiting list for any
families working or seeking employment or training. There would be no
additional costs.
Option 2 — End parent fees effective November 30, 2024, and add up to twelve (12)
children per month to try to avoid a waiting list. The cost of this would be an
additional $726,000.
Option 3 — Continue parent fees and add up to twelve (12) children per month to try to
avoid a waiting list. The cost of this would be an additional $1,188,841.
Nancy Coston said 80% of children are in 5-star programs.
Commissioner Fowler asked how much parent fees are.
Tina Clark, Human Services Supervisor, said the parent fee is 10% of gross monthly
income for youngest child in household.
Nancy Coston said it costs the department about $67,000 a month to pay parent fees.
She said they are at a point if they keep paying the parent fees they will have to make a waiting
list. She said that currently they are the only county that is still paying the parent fee.
Commissioner Portie-Ascott asked how many children will stop coming if parent fees are
not paid.
Nancy Coston said they do not know. She said that parent fees are only covered for
working parents. She said they have thought about other programs that could help them, but do
not have a way to estimate how many families would not be able to afford it.
Tina Clark said that the average fee per month is between $200-250. She said that$200-
$250 a month can be a lot for a family struggling financially.
Commissioner Hamilton said it would be helpful to see a profile of the families currently
getting the subsidy.
48
Tina Clark said the income limit for families was given, with a family size age 4 the annual
income is $63,000 she said that is the max.
Commissioner Hamilton said that she would like to see the families just in Orange County.
Nancy Coston said they looked into the employers to see who else was benefiting from
the subsidy. She said that for the 10% rule, you could extrapolate that most are $20430,000 due
to the fees.
Commissioner Fowler asked if half of the parent fee could be paid.
Nancy Coston said it could be done but providers will not want to pay to two different
entities. She said they are paid directly to the providers and there has to be a lot of paperwork
and it will cost as much to figure that out. She said the payments go directly from the portal to the
providers. She said all the funds except county funds go through a portal directly from the state
to the provider.
Vice-Chair Greene said she is the BOCC representative on the DSS Board and they
supported option 2 after a long, hard conversation. She said that it would avoid a waiting list.
Chair Bedford asked if some flexibility can be added to option 2 to monitor people pulling
children out of child care.
Nancy Coston said staff can track all of this for them and report.
Commissioner Fowler asked if there have been stories from other counties as to how that
impacted families.
Tina Clark said she was not sure any information was tracked.
Commissioner Fowler said she would support option 2.
Commissioner Hamilton said this situation is difficult and she understands child care costs
are important. She said it makes her think about what else they are not going to be able to do.
Chair Bedford asked Travis Myren if there are any updates on the financial audits.
Travis Myren said it can be covered by operating surplus for this year, but would be a
budget consideration going forward.
Commissioner Portie-Ascott said it does not bother her that Orange County would
continue to pay these fees when other counties have stopped. She said that she thinks these
services will help children not be behind when they go to school and hopes they will be innovative
enough to support this.
Nancy Coston said she thought more federal funds were coming for child care but those
have been tied up for months. She said that the General Assembly said they would do something,
but have not.
Commissioner McKee said he supports Option 2.
A motion was made by Commissioner McKee, seconded by Chair Bedford, to approve
Option 2.
Commissioner Portie-Ascott said she supports option 3.
Commissioner Richards asked if the situation can be monitored.
Travis Myren said staff will monitor and add funds as needed and keep the Board updated
on families that may not be able to keep up with program.
Commissioner Portie-Ascott asked if the parent fee is paid weekly or monthly.
Nancy Coston said that it varies, and some providers request them weekly and some
monthly.
Commissioner Portie-Ascott asked if children could be kicked out of childcare without
parent fees paid.
Commissioner Hamilton said through monitoring that can be prevented and the Board can
decide to do more at a later time.
49
Commissioner Richards said that the state seats are not full and a lack of providers and
transportation to the centers remains an issue.
Commissioner McKee asked what the highest number has been on the waitlist.
Nancy Coston said that it was close to 700.
Commissioner McKee said that he does not want to get back to that.
Chair Bedford said that they need to monitor this closely and if a budget amendment is
needed, they need to see that as soon as possible.
Nancy Coston said it was also parents that could not find work and they ended up in a
crisis.
Travis Myren said surplus will be between $1.5-$2 million projected.
VOTE: Ayes, 4 (Commissioner McKee, Commissioner Fowler, Vice-Chair Greene,
Commissioner Hamilton); Nays, 3 (Commissioner Portie-Ascott, Commissioner Richards,
Chair Bedford)
MOTION PASSES
c. New Piedmont Food Processing Center Management Agreement
The Board approved a new five-year management agreement with Piedmont Food Processing
Center, Inc.
BACKGROUND: The County is the owner of a food processing facility located at 500 Valley
Forge Road, Hillsborough, NC 27278, that serves as an economic development incubator for food
businesses.
Piedmont Food Processing Center (PFPC) is a North Carolina Corporation providing
management services to shared kitchens across the state.
The proposed contract indicates the County's desire to engage PFPC, and PFPC desires to
accept such engagement, to provide management services for the Facility on the terms and
conditions set forth within the contract.
The County and PFPC intend to work in mutual accord in order to ensure provision of high-quality
management services, thereby enhancing the use and enjoyment of the Facility.
The County entered into the first management services agreement with Piedmont Food
Processing Center in 2021. The management services agreement approved in 2023 did not
modify any of the provisions of the prior agreement. In response to concerns raised by the Board
of Commissioners, Orange County Cooperative Extension has met regularly with PFPC
leadership since November 2023 to address ongoing concerns and to identify steps that could be
taken to improve operations and accountability between the nonprofit corporation PFPC and
Orange County Government. A report was presented to the Board of County Commissioners at
its April 30, 2024 work session and feedback from the Board was received. The new contract
integrates that feedback and solutions proposed by Cooperative Extension and PFPC staff.
Major Changes from Original Contract Last Extended on October 3, 2023 are:
• Designates Director of Orange County Cooperative Extension as the Contract
Administrator.
• Proposes a five-year term to allow PFPC sufficient time for strategic business planning
and growth.
50
• Expands Section 2.3 "Specific Services and Responsibilities" to incorporate more direct
and measurable impacts on Orange County residents and businesses. This includes
points such as:
o Discounted usage fees for Orange County residents who use the services of
PFPC.
o Annual PFPC Open House and Report for the public with invitation to Orange
County elected leaders.
o A minimum of two workshops annually for farmers to help them better understand
how to access and use PFPC as a resource for value-added products.
o Increased outreach efforts to appropriate programs that can benefit from
interaction with PFPC resources and staff.
• Ensures PFPC complies with the Orange County Living Wage Policy, Smoke Free Public
Places Rule, and the Orange County Non-Discrimination Policy.
• Clarifies what capital equipment is owned by the County and what is owned by PFPC to
provide clarity on who is responsible for maintaining certain equipment.
• Updates and clarifies indemnification and insurance sections.
• Adds section on hazardous substances and what is not allowed in the facility.
• Adds section on States of Emergency to indicate that the agreement may be suspended
if necessary during such situations to address the cause or effects of the emergency.
Jonathon Smith, Cooperative Extension Director, reviewed the background information for
the item.
Chair Bedford thanked him for the work on this agreement.
Commissioner Fowler asked about the discount for usage fees.
Eric Hallman, PFPC Executive Director, said there are a couple of different ways to
administer the discounts. He said that it can be across the board for all Orange County residents
or there could be a discount for those Orange County residents just starting their business.
Commissioner Fowler asked how fees compare to other processing facilities in the state.
She asked if fees could be increased for non-Orange County residents.
Eric Hallman said fees are right at the median.
Commissioner Hamilton said she can see the work put into this agreement and it makes
things clearer. She asked about 7.1.c and for information on who the indemnitee and indemnitors
referred to.
John Roberts said either party can be the indemnitee or the indemnitor, but this covers if
a third party comes into play.
Commissioner Fowler said she feels there should be a discrepancy between what people
in Orange County pay versus out of county users. She asked if those out of county users could
have fees raised.
Eric Hallman said he wanted to present the two scenarios to see where they need to go.
He said that if they want to give across the board discounts to all Orange County residents, the
impacts would be less. He said that if you keep subsidizing a business, they do not get a full idea
of what the cost of doing business is.
Commissioner Fowler said she gets that and maybe if they are doing well, they could be
moved out. She asked if out of county folks get charged more.
Eric Hallman said they do not think that would be necessary.
Commissioner Fowler asked if they do that with the SportsPlex.
Travis Myren said that covers only school district employees or county employees.
Vice-Chair Greene said she likes the idea that the people just starting out need the extra
incentive.
51
Chair Bedford said the PFPC Board needs time to model different options. She said they
can try to frontload the discounts for Orange County startups, and they can see that modeled.
She said that it fluctuates a lot more than one might think as compared to other businesses. She
said that some of the suggestions need to be tried and Jonathan Smith can monitor that. She said
that they can go back to the drawing board if that does not work.
John Roberts asked the Board to authorize him to make non-substantive clarifying
amendments to this post-adoption.
A motion was made by Vice-Chair Greene, seconded by Commissioner Richards, to
approve and authorize the Chair to sign the attached new five-year Management Agreement
between Orange County and Piedmont Food Processing Center, Inc. and authorizing the County
Attorney to make any non-substantive clarifying changes prior to signature.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
Chair Bedford thanked everyone for their work on the agreement and appreciated
everyone's cooperation.
7. Reports
None.
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
The Board removed item 8-1 at the beginning of the meeting and considered it as part of
section 4 of the agenda.
A motion was made by Commissioner Hamilton, seconded by Commissioner Fowler, to
approve the consent agenda except for item 8-1 which was considered earlier in the meeting at
item 4-e.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
a. Minutes
None.
b. Motor Vehicle Property Tax Releases/Refunds
The Board adopted a resolution to release motor vehicle property tax values for five (5)taxpayers
with a total of five (5) 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 sixteen (16) taxpayers with a
total of eighteen (18) bills that will result in a reduction of revenue.
d. Late Applications for Property Tax Exemption/Exclusion
The Board approved eighteen (18) untimely applications for exemption/exclusion from ad valorem
taxation for twenty-three (23) bills for the 2024 tax year.
e. Fiscal Year 2024-25 Purchase of Six (6) LIFEPAK® 15 Monitor/Defibrillators
The Board approved and authorized the Manager to sign all documents necessary for the
procurement of six (6) LIFEPAK® 15 Monitor/Defibrillators.
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f. Fiscal Year 2024-25 Ambulance Purchase
The Board approved and authorized the Manager to sign all documents necessary for the
procurement of three (3)Advanced Life Support (ALS) ambulances and the advanced purchase
of one (1) Basic Life Support (BLS) ambulance.
g. North Carolina Forest Service Lease of a Portion of the Bonnie B. Davis Environmental
and Agricultural Center
The Board:
1) Reviewed the lease for a portion of the Bonnie B. Davis Environmental and Agricultural
Center to the North Carolina Forest Service; and
2) Adopted the resolution that approves the lease; and
3) Authorized the County Manager to sign the lease upon final review by the County
Attorney.
h. Renewal of County's Lease of 115 East King Street, Hillsborouqh for the Orange County
Public Defender's Office
The Board reviewed a renewal agreement for the County to continue leasing space for the Orange
County Public Defender's Office at 115 East King Street, Hillsborough, and approved and
authorized the Manager to sign the lease renewal upon final review by the County Attorney.
i. Construction Bid Award for the Motor Pool, Maintenance Shop, and Public
Transportation Automatic Transfer Switches and Generator Power
The Board:
1) Approved a construction contract with Hamlett Associates for the automatic transfer
switch installation at the Motor Pool facility, the installation of an automatic transfer switch
and generator at the Public Transportation Administrative Building, and the installation of
an automatic transfer switch and existing generator at the Maintenance Shop; and
2) Authorized the County Manager to execute the Agreement, subject to final review by the
County Attorney, and any subsequent amendments for contingent and unforeseen
requirements up to the approved budget amount on behalf of the Board.
j. Approval of a Revised Professional Engineering Services Contract with Schnabel
Engineering South, P.C. for the Lake Orange Intake Tower Rehabilitation-Replacement
Project
The Board approved a revised professional engineering services contract in the amount of
$288,000 with Schnabel Engineering South, P.C. for the Lake Orange Perimeter Survey project.
k. Soccer.com Center— Naming Rights Agreement Renewal
The Board approved the renewal of a naming rights license agreement, for a period of five years,
between Orange County and Sports Endeavors, Incorporated, for naming rights to the Orange
County soccer center on West Ten Road, known as the Soccer.com Center.
I. Fire Prevention Week Proclamation
The Board approved the proclamation as part of item 4-e earlier in the meeting.
m. Approval of Board of Commissioners Meeting Calendar for Year 2025
The Board approved the meeting schedule for the Board of Commissioners for calendar year
2025.
9. County Manager's Report
Travis Myren reminded the board about the Joint Meeting with Chief's Association, and
Regular Work Session Items on October 8'. He said all Emergency Services personnel have
returned with the exception of Kirby Saunder, Emergency Services Director, who will return
October 6tn
10. County Attorney's Report
John Roberts had no report for the Board.
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11. Appointments
None.
12. Information Items
• September 17, 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
13. Closed Session
None.
Adjournment
A motion was made by Commissioner Fowler, seconded by Commissioner Hamilton, to
adjourn the meeting at 10:22 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