HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda 09-09-2025; 5 - Agricultural Preservation Board – Appointments Discussion 1
ORANGE COUNTY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date: September 9, 2025
Action Agenda
Item No. 5
SUBJECT: Agricultural Preservation Board — Appointments Discussion
DEPARTMENT: Board of Commissioners
ATTACHMENT(S): INFORMATION CONTACT:
Recommendations Clerk's Office, 919-245-2125
Members and Applicants Summary Sheet
Applications for Persons Recommended
Applications of Other Applicants
Membership Roster
Applicant Interest List
Annual Work Plan
PURPOSE: To discuss appointments to the Agricultural Preservation Board.
BACKGROUND: The Agricultural Preservation Board is charged with promoting the economic
and cultural importance of agriculture in the County and encouraging the voluntary preservation
and protection of farmland for future production. It administers the County's Voluntary Farmland
Protection Program ordinance and advises the Board of County Commissioners on a wide range
of agricultural topics.
The Board of County Commissioners appoints all fifteen (15) members, including eight (8) At-
Large members, and one (1) member from each of the seven (7) Agricultural Districts in the
County.
NOTE: Section 48-5. (b)(2) of the Orange County Code of Ordinances states that "Agricultural
District representatives may be appointed and re-appointed as necessary to ensure that each
Agricultural District is represented," meaning there are no term limits for the positions.
The following individuals are recommended for Board consideration:
NAME POSITION TYPE OF EXPIRATION
DESCRIPTION APPOINTMENT DATE
TERM
Mary Beth At-Large First Full Term 06/30/2028
Miller (reappointment)
Michael At-Large Second Full Term 06/30/2028
Wagger
2
Jeff Sykes Cane Third Full Term 06/30/2028
Creek/Buckhorn (See Note Above
Voluntary Regarding VAD
Agricultural District Positions)
VAD
Glenn Rose New First Full Term 06/30/2028
Hope/Hillsborough
Voluntary
A ricultural District
Vera Fabian At-Large First Full Term 06/30/2027
Salem Neff At-Large First Full Term 06/30/2028
Joseph At-Large First Full Term 06/30/2028
Thompson
If the individuals listed above are appointed, no vacancies remain.
FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no financial impact associated with this item.
ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PLAN: This item supports:
• GUIDING PRINCIPLE — INCLUSIVITY AND ENGAGEMENT
We foster an environment in which all are welcomed, represented, and empowered to
participate in and feel connected to their community.
• GUIDING PRINCIPLE — DEDICATION AND RESPECT
We commit to our roles in public service and organizational excellence by fostering the
skills, talents, and innovation of our residents, employees, volunteers, and boards needed
to carry out this work.
RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board discuss appointments to
the Agricultural Preservation Board.
rALOrange County Agricultural Preservation Board 3
August 28, 2025
Jamezetta Bedford, Chair
Orange County Board of County Commissioners
PO Box 8181
Hillsborough, NC 27278
Re: Agricultural Preservation Board Appointment Recommendations
Dear Chair Bedford:
The Orange County Agricultural Preservation Board (APB) has reviewed all of the current
applications for potential membership. The APB asks the Board of Commissioners to consider
the following appointment recommendations:
Reappointments of two at-large members to new three-year terms. Both reached the end of
their terms on June 30, 2025, with good attendance and participation, and wish to continue to
serve:
Mary Beth Miller to a first full term in position 9
Michael Wagger to a second full term in position 10
Move Jeff Sykes to the Cane Creek/Buckhorn district position (position 6). This position
was vacated by Michael McPherson. Mr. Sykes owns a farm enrolled in the VAD program in the
Cane Creek/Buckhorn district, so is qualified for this position.
Appointment of new applicant Glenn Rose for the New Hope/Hillsborough district
(position 4). This position was vacated by Jane Saiers. Mr. Rose owns a farm enrolled in the
VAD program in the New Hope/Hillsborough district, so is qualified for this position.
Appointment of new applicants to fill three vacant at-large positions:
Vera Fabian to fill the vacant at-large position 12
Salem Neff to fill the vacant at-large position 13
Joseph Thompson to fill the vacant at-large position 14
Thank you on behalf of the APB. We are grateful to these individuals for being willing to share
their experience and time so generously to assist with Orange County's agricultural preservation
program.
Sincerely,
David Stancil
Orange County Agricultural Preservation Board
cc: Michael Hughes, Chair
NATURAL and CULTURAL RESOURCES DIVISION
Orange County Department of Environment, Agriculture, Parks&Recreation
PO Box 8181, Hillsborough, NC 27278
Phone: (919) 245-2510 Fax: (919) 644-3351
4
Agricultural Preservation Board Members and Applicants
Name Member or Applicant? Gender Identity Race/Ethnic Background Age Range Township Also Serves on
Noah Ranells Member Male Other 60+ Bingham
Vaughn Compton Member Male White 60+ Cedar Grove Board of Equalization and Review
Kim Woods Member Female White Cedar Grove
William Totten Member Male White 60+ Eno
Michael Hughes Member Male White Bingham Orange Unified Transportation Board
OWASA Board of Directors(after 6/30)
Anjail Taylor Member Female African American 35-59 Cedar Grove Human Relations Commission
Mary Beth Miller Member Female White 35-59 Cedar Grove
Michael Wagger Member Male White 60+ Little River
Elizabeth G.Hooten Member Female White 35-59 Bingham
Jeff Sykes Member Male White Bingham
Sandra Weitzel Member Female White 60+ Hillsborough
VACANT
VACANT
VACANT
VACANT
Joseph Thompson Applicant Male White 18-34 Eno
Vera Fabian Applicant Female White 35-59 Cedar Grove
Ben Grimes jApplicant IMale White 35-59 Little River
Salem Neff lApplicant Female White 35-59 Little River
Glenn Rose jApplicant Imale lWhite 35-59 IChapel Hill
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Page 1 of 2 Mary Beth Miller
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Mary Beth Miller
Name Called:
Home Address: 1938 Carr Store Rd.
Cedar Grove NC 27231
Phone: 919-219-5055
Email: miller.maryeliz@gmail.com
Year of OC Residence: 2007
Township of Residence: Cedar Grove
Zone of Residence: County
Gender Identity: Female
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range: 35-59
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
m a member of the Carolina Farm Stewardship Association, where I also work.
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
None.
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Agricultural Preservation Board
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
As a North Carolina native, I have seen firsthand how local decision-making and land use
policies have impacted this region over the past four decades. I began farming in Orange County
in 2010 upon graduating from UNC-Chapel Hill, and I have continued to grow food, raise
livestock, and steward land in Orange County over the past 14 years. My professional work is
focused on agroecological systems that work to improve the land and provide dignified
employment to farmers and farmworkers while building more sustainable regional food systems.
I have built a strong network of farmers, service providers, educators, investors, and landowners
in the county and greater region. Preserving agricultural land over the next decade will require
creative thinking around land use policies and conservation of working lands, as well as public
education and outreach, to which my background and experience will greatly contribute.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
The 2022 Census of Agriculture data indicated an increase in new and beginning farmers since
2017, but the number of farms continues to decrease nationwide. The census ranked North
Carolina 15th in the nation in the loss of farmland, and a more detailed report from the American
Farmland Trust ranks NC second in the country for projected farmland loss by 2040. With the
average age of the American farmer at 58, the next decade is crucial for farm transition,
especially in creating pathways for new growers to sustain our vibrant agricultural economy.
Orange County has a rich agricultural history, and it is one of the reasons people are drawn to
the area. As development answers the call of increased growth, we need ways to preserve
farmland so new farmers can continue to provide fresh, local food to the community. We can
preserve farmland, provide affordable land access to a new generation of growers, and continue
to feed the county s growing population with sensible, creative, and community-driven solutions.
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Page 2 of 2 Mary Beth Miller
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I represent a cohort of farmers looking for ways to build stronger local food systems through
small-scale farming and climate-smart agricultural practices at a time when land prices make
available farmland inaccessible to most beginning farmers. The connections and relationships
have built over the past 14 years shape my viewpoints, and I am adept at connecting with all
personality types, education levels,job titles, and backgrounds.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
My husband and I own a farm in Cedar Grove, where we live and raise sheep. I also work for a
farm conservation organization that educates and advocates for sustainable farms and local food
across the Carolinas. This might be perceived as a conflict of interest to those directly opposed
to my goals of creating more just and equitable food systems that are good for the land and the
community.
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 4/30/2024 9:53:59 AM Date Printed: 5/3/2024
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Page 1 of 2 Michael Wagger
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Michael Wagger
Name Called:
Home Address: 3607 Quail Meadow Dr.
Hillsborough NC 27278
Phone: 919-270-5107
Email: michael_wagger@ncsu.edu
Year of OC Residence: 1995
Township of Residence: Little River
Zone of Residence: County
Gender Identity: Male
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range: 60+
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
I volunteer with the Interfaith Food Shuttle, Meals on Wheels of Orange Co.,Durham
Porch, and the Levin Jewish Community Center.
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
None
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Agricultural Preservation Board
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
Before retiring in 2017, 1 was Professor of Soil Science in the Dept. of Crop and Soil Sciences at
NCSU for 34 years. My activities at NCSU spanned research, teaching, and extension realms
related to soil management in different agricultural production systems, with an emphasis on
environmental considerations related to different soil management practices. During -the last
third of my career at NCSU, I served as department head in what was then the Department of
Soil Science.
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
Having lived in a more rural part Orange County for the past 27 years, I maintain a keen interest
in agriculture and the environment. It s easy to see how development is altering the landscape
and changing the face and nature of agriculture in the county, both in terms of scale and
practices. The interest and growth in small farms with a focus on local markets and sustainable
practices is also becoming part of the fabric in the county. I would hope that my background and
perspectives in soil science can further inform the board as they seek to create sound
approaches to preserving the diversity of agricultural enterprises in Orange Co.
Contribution to the diversity of viewpoints on this board:
I'm a soil scientist by training, so that background guides how I view different sources of
information and perspectives, particularly as related to agricultural practices and preservation.
During my tenure as department head, it was also my responsibility to distill input from faculty,
staff, and students into objectives and goals that 1 st and foremost were of benefit to the
department, but also the college and university.
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Page 2 of 2 Michael Wagger
Conflict of Interest:
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 9/10/2022 Date Printed: 9/12/2022
9
Page 1 of 1 Sykes Jeff
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Sykes Jeff
Name Called:
Home Address: 5704 Vernon Road
Mebane NC 27302
Phone (Day): 919-563-4685
Phone (Evening): 336-214-3443
Phone (Cell): 336-214-3443
Email: jdsykes63@gmail.com
Place of Employment: Summit
Job Title:
Year of OC Residence: 1963
Township of Residence: Bingham
Zone of Residence: County
Sex: Male
Ethnic Background: white
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
NC Farm Bureau Board Member
Oak Grove Athletic Committee Member
Member of Hebron United Methodist Church
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Agricultural Preservation Board
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
A farmer for 40 years and preserving our farm, I see the need to preserve others.
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
With the loss of so many farms, I want to be a good steward of the land.
Conflict of Interest:
No.
Supplemental Questions:
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 9/11/2019 Date Printed: 9/11/2019
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Page 1 of 2 Glenn Rose
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Mr. Glenn Rose
Name Called:
Home Address: 421 C D Farms Rd.
Hillsborough NC 27278
Phone: 919-537-2251
Email: gwestonrose@gmail.com
Year of OC Residence: 2021
Township of Residence: Chapel Hill
Zone of Residence: County
Gender Identity: Male
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range: 35-59
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Board member TABLE NC, Farm operator and vendor at Carrboro Farmers Market
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
None
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Agricultural Preservation Board
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I operate a diversified market garden, Rose Produce, in Hillsborough, where I grow vegetables,
herbs, and fruit using sustainable practices. My work has been supported by multiple
conservation and infrastructure grants, and I've collaborated with the NRCS to implement a
conservation plan on my 20-acre property. Beyond farming, I have a background in finance and
data systems, having served as Director of Finance and led ERP and IT projects. This dual
experience gives me insight into both land stewardship and the economic realities farmers face,
particularly when it comes to long-term land use planning, farm viability, and navigating
preservation incentives.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I'm committed to ensuring that small farms like mine can thrive and remain viable in Orange
County. As development pressure grows, it's critical to have working farmers at the table to
advocate for policies and programs that support active land use, succession planning, and
regional food systems. Serving on this board would allow me to contribute practical, on-the-
ground knowledge about today's farming challenges while helping shape programs like the
Voluntary Agricultural Districts to be accessible and beneficial to a broad range of farm
operations. I also see this as a way to give back to the community that has supported my farm
and to help safeguard agricultural land for the next generation.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
As a first-generation farmer and small business owner working on a mid-scale regenerative
operation, I represent the growing number of producers who are transitioning into agriculture
from other professions. My perspective blends lived farm experience with a strong
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Page 2 of 2 Glenn Rose
understanding of financial planning, systems thinking, and the realities of operating in a
changing climate and market. I also bring a younger voice to the conversation: someone
invested in long-term land stewardship and innovation, and deeply rooted in the local food
system. This perspective complements those of multi-generational farm families and adds
nuance to policy conversations about farmland access, viability, and preservation.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 7/29/2025 8:12:24 PM Date Printed: 7/30/2025
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Page 1 of 2 Vera Fabian
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Vera Fabian
Name Called:
Home Address: 818 Auburn Ln.
Cedar Grove NC 27231
Phone: 919-801-4453
Email: vera.r.fabian@gmail.com
Year of OC Residence: 2014
Township of Residence: Cedar Grove
Zone of Residence: County
Gender Identity: Female
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range: 35-59
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Co-organizer of CRAFT (peer to peer farmer training)
Carolina Farm Stewardship Association Member
National Young Farmer Coalition
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
none
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Agricultural Preservation Board
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
My husband and I have run our own farm here in Orange County for the last ten years. We
started on rented land and then bought our own land in Cedar Grove several years later. Before
starting our farm, I worked at Maple Spring Gardens in Cedar Grove and at Transplanting
Traditions in southern Orange County. Growing up in an apartment in Chapel Hill, my mom
would take us to visit area farms. I loved being on a farm and I admired the farmers
tremendously. As a student at UNC, I took a field trip to visit Peregrine Farm and my farming
dreams began to take shape. Having not grown up on a farm and knowing I wouldn t inherit
land, I worried that farming wasn t possible. But the dream never went away and I kept working
towards it.Today, we have students from community colleges and universities visit our farm and
many of them seem curious about our experience of becoming farmers and getting on land. I
tell them that I want it to be easier because we need more people growing our food. I feel ready
to take part in our county s efforts to promote agriculture and protect farmland.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I care deeply about the future of farming in our county. As someone who chose to start a farm
here, I m intimately familiar with the pros and cons of getting a farm started and keeping a farm
thriving in this place. On our farm we employ five young people, some of whom hope to find a
future in agriculture, but most of whom worry they won t be able to afford land or make a living
as farmers. I sincerely hope we can find ways to make farming a more viable profession in the
future. I believe the county has a role to play in doing so - through access to affordable
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Page 2 of 2 Vera Fabian
farmland, transfer of current farms to beginning farmers, grants that help support the growth of
farm businesses, and peer to peer training on the business side of farms.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I don t know if 40 is considered young anymore, but it s not old -so I can bring that perspective
to the table. I m also a first generation farmer who farms for a living on a very small piece of
land (in part because we couldn t afford a larger piece of land in Orange County) so I bring that
viewpoint.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 8/13/2025 8:39:55 PM Date Printed: 8/18/2025
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Page 1 of 2 Salem Neff
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Salem Neff
Name Called:
Home Address: 3200 Breeze Rd.
Hurdle Mills NC 27541
Phone: 336-240-8378
Email: Snneff@gmail.com
Year of OC Residence: 2004
Township of Residence: Little River
Zone of Residence: County
Gender Identity: Female
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range: 35-59
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Co founder and administration of the Cobblestone Farmers Market and Beta Verde
community kitchen in Forsyth County. Member and co founder of the North Carolina
Farmers Market Network New mother of a beautiful baby boy
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
None
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Agricultural Preservation Board
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I have worked in food, community building, value added agricultural goods and marketing of
farms since 2007. 1 co founded and help run a farmers market in Winston Salem and help run a
value added kitchen in that town. I have written and been awarded grants from multiple entities,
including from the USDA, for these ventures. I have worked in Orange County farms and am
married to an Orange County farmer.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I believe that Orange County is a special place and I want to preserve the agricultural capacity
of its rural places
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I am a millennial woman, a new mother and I am passionate about farming, food and
community. I have used these skills in the past to help bring marketing opportunities to farmers.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Yes, I own a farm in Orange County with my husband so what happens in the county's rural
areas have a direct effect on my life.
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Page 2 of 2 Salem Neff
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 8/5/2025 10:30:00 PM Date Printed: 8/7/2025
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Page 1 of 2 Joseph Thompson
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Mr. Joseph Thompson
Name Called:
Home Address: 6004 Willett Rd.
Durham NC 27705
Phone: 919-309-5090
Email: jbthompson@ncat.edu
Year of OC Residence: 1995
Township of Residence: Eno
Zone of Residence: County
Gender Identity: Male
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range: 18-34
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Currently the vice president of Orange County Farm Bureau board.
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
Currently on Orange county Farm Bureau board
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Agricultural Preservation Board
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
My passion for agriculture started when I was around 12 years old spending the summers on
my grandfather s farm. As I entered high school, I became heavily involved in FFA. When I
became a Senior, I was the chapter president and the regional sentinel. After high school I
ended up receiving a bachelors degree in agricultural education from North Carolina A&T State
University and after college worked for a seed and pesticide supplier for about a year and a
half. For the past 6 years I have worked at A&T s research farm am currently the field crops
coordinator.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I have been an Orange county resident my entire life along with my parents and both sets of
grandparents. Agriculture has been a big part of my life from a young age and I currently farm
part-time myself. Seeing the amount of urban sprawl in just a handful of years is alarming and a
threat to the farmers way of life.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I feel that my understanding of agriculture being on an academic and practical level gives me
different perspective.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
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Page 2 of 2 Joseph Thompson
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 8/21/2025 2:57:39 PM Date Printed: 8/22/2025
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Page 1 of 2 Ben Grimes
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Ben Grimes
Name Called:
Home Address: 3200 Breeze Rd.
Hurdle Mills NC 27541
Phone: 919-903-0200
Email: Ben@dawnbreakerfarms.com
Year of OC Residence: 2013
Township of Residence: Little River
Zone of Residence: County
Gender Identity: Male
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range: 35-59
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
I am a member of the Baha'i Faith and serve and participate in the Orange County
community. I am a member of the American Pastured Poultry Producers Association
which is a nation wide community of pastured poultry producers who help one another
grow and problem solve with the intention of having more pastured poultry available in the
marketplace. I have been a member of the Carrboro Farmers Market since 2015. 1 am a
member of Carolina Farm Stewardship Association and regularly speak at their annual
conference.
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Agricultural Preservation Board
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I have been a farmer in Orange County since 2013 and have been full time on the farm since
2017. On my farm I raise pasture raised meat for sale direct to consumer as well as wholesale
to restaurants and food hubs in the greater Triangle region. In this role I have come to know the
state of the rural community, our strengths and weaknesses as well as personally built
relationships with many of the counties farmers. I can use this experience and the many
relationships towards benefitting the community in my capacity on this board.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I strongly believe in the agricultural capacity of a community and for the lands well being and I
want to serve my community by protecting the wealth of resources that our county has. In the
12 years that I have lived in Orange County I have gotten to know the community and seen
what our strengths and weaknesses are. I want to use my experience and perspective towards
steering OC in a direction that maintains our rural integrity while also integrating with the
booming economy and population of the greater region.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
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Page 2 of 2 Ben Grimes
I am a relatively young farmer(born in 1986) and a first generation farmer. I have the
perspective of someone who came into this field out of choice, not birth. I am also a full time
farmer, which is a rare privilege in today5€TMs agricultural economy! Though I call myself a
farmer I really see myself as an ecosystem steward who uses livestock grazing to achieve a
desired result on the land. I have the unique position of being a full time farmer and an
environmental hippy. I know what it takes to run a financially viable farm business as well as
maintain environmental integrity. I would like to see more land in OC do both!
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Yes. I am a landowner in the county and my livelihood comes from the land. My interest is in
preserving Orange County's agricultural capacity.
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 8/5/2025 10:10:00 PM Date Printed: 8/7/2025
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Board and Commission Members
And Vacant Positions
Agricultural Preservation Board
Meeting Times: 6:30 pm Third Wednesday of every other month Contact Person:Peter Sandbeck&Abby Mattingly
Meeting Place: Bonnie B.Davis Environment&Agricultural Center Contact Phone: 919-245-2510
Positions: 15 Length:3 years Terms: 2
Description: <div>The Agricultural Preservation Board seeks to encourage the voluntary preservation of farmland from non-farm
development,recognizing the importance of agriculture to the economic and cultural life of the county.It administers the
County's Voluntary Farmland Protection Program ordinance and advises the Board of County Commissioners on a wide
range of agricultural topics.The Agricultural Preservation Board is a body comprised of up to eight(8)at-large members,
plus one(1)member from each of the seven(7)Agricultural Districts in the county.</div>
Dr. Noah Ranells
1 First Appointed: 06/18/2024
Gender Identity: Male Township: Bingham Current Appointment: 06/18/2024
Ethnic Background: Other Residency Req: Vol.Ag.District Expiration: 06/30/2027
Age Range: 60+ Special Repr: High Rock/Efland Vol.Ag.Dist. Number of Terms: 1
Vaughn Compton
2 First Appointed: 12/05/2022
Gender Identity: Male Township: Cedar Grove Current Appointment: 06/20/2023
Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: Vol.Ag.District Expiration: 06/30/2026
Age Range: 60+ Special Repr: Cedar Grove Vol.Ag.Dist. Number of Terms: 1
Kim Woods
3 First Appointed: 11/13/2018
Gender Identity: Female Township: Cedar Grove Current Appointment: 06/20/2023
Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: Vol.Ag.District Expiration: 06/30/2026
Age Range: Special Repr: Caldwell Vol.Ag.Dist. Number of Terms: 2
VACANT
4 First Appointed:
Gender Identity: Township: Current Appointment:
Ethnic Background: Residency Req: Vol.Ag.District Expiration: 06/30/2028
Age Range: Special Repr: New Hope/Hills.Vol.Ag.Dist. Number of Terms:
Mr. William Totten
5 First Appointed: 06/18/2024
Gender Identity: Male Township: Eno Current Appointment: 06/18/2024
Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: Vol.Ag.District Expiration: 06/30/2027
Age Range: 60+ Special Repr: Schley/Eno Vol.Ag.Dist. Number of Terms:
VACANT
6 First Appointed:
Gender Identity: Township: Current Appointment:
Ethnic Background: Residency Req: Enhanced VolAgDist Expiration: 06/30/2028
Age Range: Special Repr: Cane Creek/Buckhorn Vol.Ag.Dist. Number of Terms:
Friday,August 29,2025 Page 1
21
Board and Commission Members
And Vacant Positions
Agricultural Preservation Board
Meeting Times: 6:30 pm Third Wednesday of every other month Contact Person:Peter Sandbeck&Abby Mattingly
Meeting Place: Bonnie B.Davis Environment&Agricultural Center Contact Phone: 919-245-2510
Positions: 15 Length:3 years Terms: 2
Mr. Michael Hughes
7 First Appointed: 06/18/2024
Gender Identity: Male Township: Bingham Current Appointment: 06/18/2024
Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: Vol.Ag.District Expiration: 09/30/2026
Age Range: 60+ Special Repr: White Cross Vol Ag.Dist. Number of Terms: 2
Anjail Taylor
8 First Appointed: 02/17/2022
Gender Identity: Female Township: Cedar Grove Current Appointment: 06/18/2024
Ethnic Background: African American Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 06/30/2027
Age Range: 35-59 Special Repr: Number of Terms: 2
Mary Beth Miller
9 First Appointed: 06/18/2024
Gender Identity: Female Township: Cedar Grove Current Appointment: 06/18/2024
Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 06/30/2025
Age Range: 35-59 Special Repr: Number of Terms:
Michael Wagger
10 First Appointed: 12/05/2022
Gender Identity: Male Township: Little River Current Appointment: 12/05/2022
Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 06/30/2025
Age Range: 60+ Special Repr: Number of Terms: 1
Elizabeth G. Hooten
11 First Appointed: 02/17/2022
Gender Identity: Female Township: Bingham Current Appointment: 06/18/2024
Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 06/30/2027
Age Range: 35-59 Special Repr: Number of Terms: 2
VACANT
12 First Appointed:
Gender Identity: Township: Current Appointment:
Ethnic Background: Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 06/30/2027
Age Range: Special Repr: Number of Terms:
Friday,August 29,2025 Page 2
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Board and Commission Members
And Vacant Positions
Agricultural Preservation Board
Meeting Times: 6:30 pm Third Wednesday of every other month Contact Person:Peter Sandbeck&Abby Mattingly
Meeting Place: Bonnie B.Davis Environment&Agricultural Center Contact Phone: 919-245-2510
Positions: 15 Length:3 years Terms: 2
Jeff Sykes
13 First Appointed: 12/02/2019
Gender Identity: Male Township: Bingham Current Appointment: 05/24/2022
Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 06/30/2025
Age Range: Special Repr: Number of Terms: 2
VACANT
14 First Appointed:
Gender Identity: Township: Current Appointment:
Ethnic Background: Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 06/30/2028
Age Range: Special Repr: Number of Terms:
Sandra Weitzel
15 First Appointed: 10/15/2024
Gender Identity: Female Township: Hillsborough Current Appointment: 10/15/2024
Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 06/30/2027
Age Range: 60+ Special Repr: Number of Terms: 1
Friday,August 29,2025 Page 3
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Applicant Interest Listing by Board Name and by Applicant Name
Contact Person: Peter Sandbeck&Abby Matting
Agricultural Preservation Board Contact Phone: 919-245-2510
Mr. Joseph Thompson
Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 08/21/2025
Ethnic Background: White Township: Eno
Age Range 18-34 Zone of Residence: County
Also Serves On:
Vera Fabian
Gender Identity: Female Date Applied: 08/13/2025
Ethnic Background: White Township: Cedar Grove
Age Range 35-59 Zone of Residence: County
Also Serves On:
Ben Grimes
Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 08/05/2025
Ethnic Background: White Township: Little River
Age Range 35-59 Zone of Residence: County
Also Serves On:
Salem Neff
Gender Identity: Female Date Applied: 08/05/2025
Ethnic Background: White Township: Little River
Age Range 35-59 Zone of Residence: County
Also Serves On:
Mr. Glenn Rose
Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 07/29/2025
Ethnic Background: White Township: Chapel Hill
Age Range 35-59 Zone of Residence: County
Also Serves On:
Thursday,August 28,2025 Page 1 of 1
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NAME OF BOARD/COMMISSION: Agricultural Preservation Board
Report Period: January 2024 — December 2024
ORANGE COUNTY ADVISORY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
ANNUAL REPORT/WORK PLAN FOR THE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Board/Commission Name: Agricultural Preservation Board (APB)
Person to address the BOCC at work session- if applicable- and contact information:
Michael Hughes, Chair: (919) 270-6462 or mmh(a)mmhpe.com
Primary County Staff Contact:
Peter Sandbeck, DEAPR staff support
How many times per month does this board/commission meet, including any special
meetings and sub-committee meetings?
Once every other month, on the third Wednesdays of January, March, May, July, September
and November.
Brief Statement of Board/Commission's Assigned Charge and
Responsibilities.
The Agricultural Preservation Board's mission is "to encourage the voluntary preservation of
farmland from non-farm development, recognizing the importance of agriculture to the
economic and cultural life of the county."
The Agricultural Preservation Board (APB) serves as the County's advisory board for
agricultural issues and administers the Voluntary Farmland Protection Program. The APB
advises the Board of Commissioners on agricultural development and farmland preservation,
sustainable agriculture, emerging trends in agriculture, and other initiatives to help ensure
that farming continues to be a viable activity here. The APB makes recommendations on
proposed Voluntary Agricultural Districts (VAD) and Enhanced Voluntary Agricultural Districts
(EVAD). The APB is responsible for preparing and updating the Countywide Agricultural
Development and Farmland Protection Plan, and the implementation of the agricultural
sections of the Orange County Comprehensive Plan, Natural and Cultural Systems Element
(in conjunction with other agricultural agencies).
What are your Board/Commission's most important accomplishments?
• In 2024, the APB reviewed and recommended approval for 4 additional farms as
Voluntary Agricultural District and Enhanced Voluntary Agricultural District farms,
adding 145 acres to these programs after being approved by the BOCC. This
increased the total enrollment in both programs to 17,578 acres on 155 farms
throughout the County (14,864 in VAD and 2,714 in EVAD).
• The APB's Farmland Preservation Subcommittee has completed a two-year project to
assess the state of farming and farmland preservation in the county. The sub-
committee has prepared a draft of a new Agricultural Viability and Farmland
Stewardship Plan for Orange County, to update and enhance our existing 2009 plan.
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• Co-hosted (with the Extension Service and the Soil and Water Conservation
Service), a well-attended Farm Succession Planning workshop that provided
information and strategies to help farm owners make plans to prepare for the
future of their farm businesses and farmland.
• Hosted another successful annual VAD breakfast and educational program,
attended by approximately 66 farm owners.
• Assisted farm owners with enrollment in the Century Farm Program.
• Continued installing new road signs to identify farms enrolled in the Voluntary
Agricultural District programs, as well as to recognize participating farmers
and increase program visibility.
• Assisted Economic Development in reviewing and evaluating new applications
for the Ag Economic Development Grant Program; three members of the APB
serve on the grant review committee.
List of Specific Tasks, Events, or Functions Performed or Sponsored Annually.
• Reviews and approves applications from farmers seeking to participate in the
VAD/EVAD program, every other month.
• Hosts an annual breakfast for VAD landowners to recognize their efforts to preserve
agriculture and to provide them with current educational information through
presentations and programs.
Describe this board/commission's activities/accomplishments in carrying out BOCC
goal(s)/priorities, if applicable.
• The APB promotes, reviews and recommends new Voluntary Agricultural Districts
and Enhanced Voluntary Agricultural Districts that help protect farmland (Comp
Plan, Natural and Cultural Systems Goal 2).
• The Board oversees the creation implementation of a long-term plan for agricultural
development and farmland protection; a new draft update of this plan was completed
in 2024. (Goal 2, Goal 5).
• The APB makes recommendations on goals and objectives for the triennial
Lands Legacy Action Plan (Goal 8).
Identify any activities this board/commission expects to carry out in 2025 as they
relate to established BOCC goals and priorities. If applicable, is there a fiscal impact
(i.e., funding, staff time, other resources) associated with these proposed activities.
• Complete the APB's major project to update the County's existing Agricultural
Development and Farmland Protection Plan, last produced in 2009; the new
plan, Agricultural Viability and Farmland Stewardship Plan for Orange County, is
envisioned as a "living" document, to be updated and revised on a regular basis.
• Provide input for the current Land Use Plan 2050 update process; communicate
with the BOCC and the Planning Department staff to ensure that farm viability
and farmland protection/preservation are fully represented in the final vision plan.
• Develop new educational efforts to help inform residents about the importance of
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a vibrant, thriving local farm economy, allowing farmers to remain in business
and thus preserving farmland and supporting local food production/food security.
• Continue to collaborate and communicate with the Planning Department and the
BOCC in matters relating to agriculture.
• Continue to promote and recommend Voluntary Agricultural Districts and Enhanced
Voluntary Agricultural Districts.
• Support continuation of the successful Farm-to-Table Event for about 300
local 4t" graders, held annually at Blackwood Farm Park.
• Enroll additional farm owners in the Century Farm Program through assistance
with applications and deed research.
What are the concerns or emerging issues your board has identified for the upcoming
year that it plans to address, or wishes to bring to the
Commissioners' attention?
• The APB believes that the ongoing loss of prime agricultural land is a significant
threat to the future of agriculture in the County. Farmland continues to be developed
at an alarming rate due to rising land prices. Existing farmers find it increasingly hard
to justify staying in business, while the cost of establishing a new farm is prohibitive
for younger farmers. As a result, farmland throughout the county is being taken out
of production and converted to residential use, which requires expanded use of
County services at additional taxpayer cost. The APB's new draft Agricultural
Viability and Farmland Stewardship Plan proposes a wide range of strategies to
enable the County to address the loss of farmland and enhance the economic
sustainability of farming for both traditional and small-scale/intensive farms. The
APB will present recommendations to the BOCC in early 2025.
• Agritourism continues to be an important way for farm owners to maintain their farms
and diversify. More than half of County farmers/landowners responding to the APB's
2023 survey indicated that they would consider agritourism as a means of expanding
or enhancing their agricultural business. The APB supports policies to increase new
agritourism opportunities to enhance/diversify farm income and attract visitors.
• The average age of our farmers continues to increase. Our "senior" farmers control a
large percentage of our open farmland. Their retirement will result in a significant
decline in active farm acreage over the next decade. The APB's 2023 farm survey
revealed that the majority of farmers/landowners plan to leave their farms to a family
member, but many don't have a transition plan/estate plan. The APB will increase
efforts to educate farmers/landowners about transition and estate planning, and also
increase educational outreach efforts to inform landowners about conservation
easements including those available through the Lands Legacy Program.
• There is growing need for new local or regional processing facilities and cooperative
marketing opportunities to enable our smaller producers to supply larger-scale
customers, including local universities and schools—thus allowing them to grow and
compete with larger corporate producers and enhance local food security. The
majority of the new farm operations being started in the County are small market
farms, where crops are grown intensively on smaller parcels, to be sold locally at
markets. These farmers will thrive if they can aggregate produce for larger buyers.
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