HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 05-05-2026-Business Meeting 1
APPROVED 6/2/26
MINUTES
ORANGE COUNTY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
BUSINESS MEETING
May 5, 2026
7:00 p.m.
The Orange County Board of Commissioners met for a Business Meeting on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at 7:00
p.m. at the Whiffed Human Services Center in Hillsborough, NC.
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Chair Jean Hamilton, Vice-Chair Amy Fowler, and Commissioners
Jamezetta Bedford, Marilyn Carter, Sally Greene, Earl McKee, and Phyllis Portie-Ascott
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS ABSENT: None.
COUNTY ATTORNEYS PRESENT: John Roberts
COUNTY STAFF PRESENT: County Manager Travis Myren, Deputy County Manager Caitlin Fenhagen, and
Clerk to the Board Laura Jensen. (All other staff members will be identified appropriately below)
Chair Hamilton called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. All commissioners were present.
1. Additions or Changes to the Agenda
Chair Hamilton requested to amend the agenda by adding a letter to Zoe Tolmie as item 8-1 on the
consent agenda, congratulating her on winning an honorable mention in C-SPAN's 22nd annual student
documentary competition.
Commissioner McKee made a motion to amend the agenda by adding a letter to Zoe Tolmie as
item 8-1 on the consent agenda. Commissioner Carter seconded the motion.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
Commissioner Greene made a motion to remove item 8-f from the consent agenda so that a
revised version of the Jewish-American Heritage Month Proclamation could be considered. Commissioner
McKee seconded the motion.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
Chair Hamilton read the public charge.
2. Public Comments(Limited to One Hour)
a. Matters not on the Printed Agenda
Gayanne Chambless thanked the Board for recognizing Principal Jason Johnson and that mental
health is a critical part of well-being. She challenged the community to do more for mental health
awareness and trainings. She described free training opportunities available to the public. She highlighted
that the Orange Partnership Coalition's federal SAMHSA Partnerships for Success (PFS) grant has funded
over$53,000 in training costs over the past two years at no cost to county government, but that the grant
ends in 2027. She asked the board how it would support these efforts going forward.
Sandra Theard described difficulties she is having with a property tax appeal and asked the Board
for assistance.
Laura Horrigan described the need for increased school funding. She made three points:first,that
teachers are superstars who need competitive pay to be retained, as they cannot live on state pay alone;
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second,that the state has been negligent in per-pupil funding, placing the burden on the county;and third,
that she asked the board not to penalize the district with a smaller budget because of the hard financial
work done by Superintendent Rodney Trice and district leadership, including RIFs and replenishing the
fund balance.
Julie Werry thanked the board for its sustained support and acknowledged the difficult position
commissioners are in amid national and state pressures. She recounted the challenges the district has
faced since 2023 — multiple RIFs, allocation adjustments, programming cuts, declining enrollment, and
difficult conversations about school closures. She praised Superintendent Rodney Trice and asked the
board to stand with the community by providing a fully funded continuation budget,warning that without
full support, uncertainty would worsen for teachers and families.
Amy Rosenthal spoke on the proclamation for Jewish American Heritage Month. She thanked the
Board for their support and acknowledgment.
Olivia Soto-Allison spoke on the need for increased funding for Emergency Medical Services. She
read a statement from a coworker, Lloyd Adler-Johnson who could not be present. His statement
described the need for higher salaries for EMS employees, and that the department is underpaid,
understaffed, and under-resourced. He said employees had been counting on the planned step increases
for salaries, and that pausing these increases will result in employee turnover. He said this will impact
services to residents.
b. Matters on the Printed Agenda
(These matters will be considered when the Board addresses that item on the agenda below.)
3. Announcements, Petitions and Comments by Board Members
Commissioner Greene spoke on the Jewish-American Heritage Month Proclamation. She read the
proclamation out loud with additional language:
ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
JEWISH AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, Jewish American Heritage Month is celebrated annually in May to honor the generations of
Jewish Americans who have contributed to the history and culture of our nation, from its very origin 250
years ago; and
WHEREAS, Jewish Americans have made significant contributions to North Carolina's economic
development entrepreneurship, business leadership and innovation, playing a key role in building a
thriving local economy; and
WHEREAS, the Jewish community has played a lead role in North Carolina's arts and culture, supporting
institutions, artists and events that celebrate creativity and foster cross-cultural appreciation; and
WHEREAS,Jewish Americans have shaped both K-12 and higher education in North Carolina by advocating
for high-quality education for all, establishing schools and scholarships, serving as educators and mentors
who inspire the next generation; and
WHEREAS,Jewish Americans have honorably served in the United States military, demonstrating courage,
patriotism and a commitment to protecting the constitutional rights and freedoms we hold dear, and in
government dedicating themselves to helping others; and
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WHEREAS,Jewish physicians, researchers, and health care professionals have made critical contributions
to medicine, health care, and science in North Carolina, while improving lives and advancing the well-
being of the entire community; and
WHEREAS,the Jewish community in North Carolina has established cultural institutions, synagogues, and
organizations that have enriched the state's religious,social and cultural fabric while educating and serving
the public, fostering dialogue and mutual understanding among groups and promoting a welcoming and
inclusive community for all residents; and
WHEREAS,the frequency of antisemitic incidents targeting Jews and those who are perceived as Jewish in
the United States has reached record highs; and
WHEREAS, according to the American Jewish Committee, 91 percent of American Jews say they feel less
safe as a Jewish person in the United States due to violent attacks against American Jews in the past year;
and
WHEREAS, according to the Jewish Federations of North America, 50 percent of Jewish institutions with a
physical presence, such as synagogues, community centers, and day schools, lack the resources to
adequately protect themselves against these rising threats; and
WHEREAS,recognizing and celebrating Jewish American Heritage Month reaffirms our state's commitment
to combatting prejudice, standing strong against antisemitism and promoting unity among all North
Carolina's residents;
NOW,THEREFORE, we,the Board of County Commissioners of Orange County, North Carolina, do hereby
proclaim the month of May 2026, as JEWISH AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH and encourage our residents,
community organizations, schools, and institutions to participate in programs and activities that honor
Jewish American contributions to our history and present,celebrate their achievements,and inspire future
generations of Jewish Americans.
THIS THE 5th DAY OF MAY, 2026.
Jean Hamilton, Chair
Orange County Board of Commissioners
Chair Hamilton said the revised proclamation will be voted on during the consent agenda.
Commissioner Carter reported on a panel she moderated at the Whiffed Building called "From
Floods to Faucets: Who's Paying for Our Water?" She noted one panelist's sobering comment to his
children: "This summer will be the coolest summer you experience for the rest of your lives." She
submitted a petition for the board to receive a full update on the Eno-Haw Regional Hazard Mitigation
Plan before hurricane season, and drew attention to a consent agenda item amending the plan following
the Tropical Storm Chantal after-action review. She also asked that during budget discussions, the board
identify which budget components explicitly address resiliency and mitigation.
Commissioner McKee described the history of tax increases in the county over the last 20 years.
He said that after County Manager Frank Clifton's arrival, the county went through seven years of no tax
increases,with only one exception in 2014-15. He acknowledged it involved hard cuts and disruptions but
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said "we came out better for it," and urged the board to keep this history in mind as they begin the annual
operating budget discussion.
Commissioner Portie-Ascott recognized teachers during Teacher Appreciation Week, saying that
they are "on the front line of our community." She also reported on the NCACC's draft five-year strategic
plan, highlighting three features she found impressive:an issue tracker for legislative goals,a matchmaking
program pairing new county staff with experienced peers in other counties, and a mentoring program for
new commissioners providing practical day-to-day guidance.
Commissioner Bedford said she participated in the "topping off" ceremony for the new Durham
Tech building in Orange County. She said the project came in under budget. She said she will listen to an
upcoming call with NCACC on property tax legislation. She said that the board self-evaluation
subcommittee met the previous Friday.
Vice-Chair Fowler thanked Gayanne Chambless for her comments and her work on mental health
for many years in Orange County. She said she participated in the Senior Games in late April. She
highlighted the other proclamations on the agenda.
Chair Hamilton recognized a proclamation on the agenda for Professional Clerks to the Boards of
County Commissioners' Week and thanked the Clerk to the Board, Deputy Clerk, and Assistant Deputy
Clerk for their work. She highlighted the item added to the consent agenda, a congratulatory letter to
McDougall Middle School eighth grader Zoe Tolmie, who received an honorable mention in the C-SPAN
student documentary film competition for her film For the People: Unemployment and Unjustified Denial
to Housing. She said the film was impressive and that it reflects awareness of the challenges around
unemployment and housing inequality.
4. Proclamations/Resolutions/Special Presentations
a. Proclamation Honoring Jason Johnson as the National Association of Secondary School Principals
(NASSP) 2026 National High School Principal of the Year
The Board approved a proclamation honoring Jason Johnson as National Association of Secondary School
Principals (NASSP) 2026 National High School Principal of the Year.
BACKGROUND: Orange High School Principal Jason Johnson was recognized in 2025 as the Wells Fargo
North Carolina Principal of the Year. In April 2026, Principal Johnson was named the National Association
of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) 2026 National High School Principal of the Year. He received the
recognition at the National Education Leadership Awards (NELA) in Washington, D.C. on April 17, 2026.
Principal Johnson has been an educator in North Carolina for 28 years,serving in Chatham County Schools
and Guilford County Schools as a teacher and principal, in addition to his tenure in Orange County Schools.
Additionally,Johnson worked at the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) as a School
Transformation Coach.
For the NASSP Principal of the Year program, each of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, the U.S.
Department of State Office of Overseas Schools, and the Department of Defense Education Activity select
one (1) middle and one (1) high school principal to represent their state or department. From those
nominees,three(3)middle and three(3) high school finalists are chosen.The NASSP Middle Level National
Principal of the Year and High School National Principal of the Year are selected from among the finalists.
The award recognizes middle and high school principals for their outstanding contributions to student
success, school improvement, and educational leadership.
The commissioners read the following proclamation in turn:
5
ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
PROCLAMATION HONORING JASON JOHNSON
AS THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF SECONDARY SCHOOL PRINCIPALS(NASSP) 2026 NATIONAL HIGH
SCHOOL PRINCIPAL OF THE YEAR
WHEREAS, Orange High School Principal Jason Johnson has generously contributed and worked tirelessly
in public education for 28 years; and
WHEREAS, Principal Johnson served as a teacher, school transformation coach, assistant principal, and
executive director of Orange County Schools before returning to his calling as a principal; and
WHEREAS, working with students, teachers, and families is at the heart of who Principal Johnson is as an
educational leader; and
WHEREAS,as principal,Jason Johnson is an advocate for equity in schools and ensuring that student voices
are heard; and
WHEREAS, Principal Johnson was recognized in 2025 as the Wells Fargo North Carolina Principal of the
Year, and was previously the 2010 and 2024 Orange County Schools Principal of the Year; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Johnson has also lent his expertise and experience to the Orange County Schools Equity
Task Force, the Orange County Government School Bond Education Committee, the Orange County
Business Advisory Council, and the North Carolina State Employees' Credit Union (SECU) Advisory
Committee; and
WHEREAS, Principal Johnson leads by listening to teachers, students, staff members, and members of the
community, and fosters a collaborative culture at Orange High School;
NOW, THEREFORE, we, the Orange County Board of Commissioners, do hereby honor Principal Jason
Johnson for his recent recognition as National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) 2026
National High School Principal of the Year and encourage the residents of Orange County to join with us in
expressing gratitude for his dedicated service to education.
This the 5th day of May, 2026.
Jean Hamilton, Chair
Orange County Board of Commissioners
A motion was made by Commissioner Portie-Ascott, seconded by Vice-Chair Fowler, to approve
the proclamation and authorize the Chair to sign.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
PUBLIC COMMENT:
Will Atherton, Chair of the Orange County School Board,thanked the Board of Commissioners for
honoring Jason Johnson. He said that his work resonates nationally and that Orange County Schools is
very proud.
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b. Mental Health Awareness Month Proclamation
The Board approved a proclamation designating May 2026 as Mental Health Awareness Month in Orange
County.
BACKGROUND: Mental Health Awareness Month has been observed in the U.S. since 1949. Each year
millions of Americans face the reality of living with a mental illness. Even though mental health conditions
are common and treatable like physical health conditions, many people are still afraid to talk about them
due to the stigma associated with mental illness. In May, mental health organizations and affiliates raise
awareness with community events and messages of hope to highlight the importance of mental health.
The Board of Commissioners is asked to proclaim May 2026 as "Mental Health Awareness Month" in
Orange County to shine a light on mental illness and the need for long-term improvements in our mental
health care system and improved access to care so no one feels alone.
The commissioners read the following proclamation in turn:
ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
PROCLAMATION
MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH
WHEREAS, mental health is part of everyone's overall health and well-being, and mental illnesses are
prevalent in our county,state, and nation,with one in five adults experiencing a mental health issue every
year; and
WHEREAS, mental health sustains an individual's thought processes, relationships, productivity,and ability
to adapt to change; and
WHEREAS, it is important to maintain mental health and to recognize the symptoms of mental illness and
seek help when it is needed; and
WHEREAS, early identification and treatment can make a difference in successful navigation and
management of mental illness and recovery; and
WHEREAS,stigma and the resulting discrimination is a primary obstacle to early identification and effective
treatment of individuals with mental illness and the ability to recover to lead full, productive lives; and
WHEREAS, every person and community can help end the silence and stigma surrounding mental illness
that for too long has made people feel isolated, alone and discouraged people from getting help; and
WHEREAS, Orange County remains engaged in the promise to address the challenges facing people with
mental illness; and
WHEREAS, people with lived experience of mental illness and/or substance use disorders get better, live
in recovery, and provide invaluable knowledge of how to improve and transform systems of care, and
WHEREAS, through public education and working together to raise awareness, we can help improve the
lives of individuals and families affected by mental illness, and
7
WHEREAS, Mental Health Awareness Month is an opportunity to increase public understanding of the
importance of mental health and to promote the identification and treatment of mental illness;
NOW THEREFORE, we, the Orange County Board of Commissioners, do hereby recognize May 2026 as
Mental Health Awareness Month in Orange County and shine a light on mental health and the need for
long-term improvements in our mental health care system and improved access to care so no one feels
alone.
This the 5th day of May, 2026.
Jean Hamilton, Chair
Orange County Board of Commissioners
A motion was made by Commissioner Carter, seconded by Commissioner McKee, to approve the
proclamation designating May 2026 as"Mental Health Awareness Month"in Orange County and authorize
the Chair to sign the proclamation.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
Chair Hamilton spoke about the importance of mental health care as a provider herself, urging
those in need to keep seeking help even if the first provider is not a good fit.
Vice-Chair Fowler said she was wearing green in honor of mental health. She expressed hope for
continued work toward a behavioral health urgent care facility
Commissioner Bedford said Commissioner Carter has served on one of the Governor's committees
for mental health.
c. Presentation of Manager's Recommended Fiscal Year 2026-27 Annual Operating Budget
The Board received a presentation on the Manager's Recommended FY 2026-27 Annual Operating Budget.
BACKGROUND: Each year in the month of May, the County Manager presents the Board of County
Commissioners with a recommended spending plan for the next fiscal year. During the meeting, the
Manager provides a brief presentation of the Recommended FY 2026-27 Annual Operating Budget.
The Board of County Commissioners will conduct two Public Hearings -the first at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday,
May 12, 2026, and the second on Thursday, May 28,2026 at 7:00 pm. In addition,the Board has scheduled
the following Budget Work Sessions:
• May 14, 2026 - Budget Work Session with Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools, Orange County
Schools, Durham Tech Community College and Outside Agencies.
• May 21, 2026 - Budget Work Session with Fire Districts and County Departments within the
following Functional Leadership Teams: Public Safety (Courts, Emergency Services, Criminal
Justice Resource Department, and the Sheriff's Office); Human Services (Child Support,
Department of Social Services, Department of Aging, Health, Housing Department, Equity and
Inclusion, Library Services and Alliance Health)
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• May 26, 2026 - Budget Work Session with County Departments within the following Functional
Leadership Teams: Support Services(Asset Management Services,Community Relations, Finance
and Administrative Services, Human Resources and Information Technology); General
Government (Board of County Commissioners, Board of Elections, County Manager, County
Attorney, Register of Deeds and Tax Administration); Community Services (Animal Services,
Cooperative Extension, Department of Environmental, Agriculture, Parks and Recreation,
Economic Development, Orange Public Transportation, Fleet Services, Planning and Inspections,
Solid Waste and Sportsplex)
• June 4,2026-Budget Work Session for Board to review budget amendments and finalize decisions
(Resolution of Intent to Adopt)on the FY 2026-27 Annual Operating Budget and the FY 2025-2035
Capital Investment Plan.
• June 16, 2026 - Business Meeting for the Adoption of the FY 2026-27 Annual Operating Budget
and the FY 2025-2035 Capital Investment Plan.
All meetings start at 7:00 p.m.
Travis Myren made the following presentation:
Slide#1
ORANGE COUNTY
NORTH CAROLINA
Introduction of Manager's Recommended
FY2026-27 Operating Budget
May 5, 2026
Board of Orange County Commissioners
9
Slide#2
FY2026-27 Operating Budget Introduction
FY2026-27 Operating Budget Priorities
t. Minimize Tax Rate Increase 4. Maximize Efficiencies in County Operations and
Underscore Cost Recovery while Preserving Core
Services
2. Prioritize Public Safety and Social Safety Net
Direct Services
5. Modestly Invest in the Employee Compensation
3. Support School Current Expense and Pay-Go Package
Funding Amid Declining Enrollment
6. Align any New Budget Investments with Strategic
Plan Goals
ORANGE COUNTY
2 NORTH CAROLINA
Slide#3
FY 2026-27 Operating Budget Introduction
• Total Recommended Budget at a Glance
-Total General Fund Revenue -$325,130,721
$275,868,111 Generated by Taxes—Property Tax,Sales Tax and Licenses—85%
$49,262,610 Generated by County Operations—Grants, Fees, Donations, Fund Balance, Interest, etc.—15%
-Total Operating Budget (General Fund) -$325,130,721
Total K-12 Education (Operating +Debt Service)$148,379,362 or 54%of County Tax Revenue
Net County (Operating +Debt Service—Dept Revenue) $127,488,749 or 46%of County Tax Revenue
3 ORAR GE�COUNATY
10
Slide#4
FY 2026-27 Operating Budget Introduction
• General Fund Revenue
- Property Tax Natural Growth—2.27% Increase= $4.7 million
- Natural growth has declined from 2% in prior years to 1.4%
- Growth in Motor Vehicles (10.6%)
Assumes Several Tax Base Adjustments
- $120 million additional exemptions for properties qualifying as affordable housing
- $65 million exemption for brownfield development
- $10 million loss in value due to Tropical Storm Chantal damage as of January 1,2026
- $154.8 million loss assumed for new appeals of 2025 values
ORANGE COUNTY
4 NORTH CAROLINA
Slide#5
FY 2026-27 Operating Budget Introduction
• General Fund Revenue
- Sales Tax—2.7% over FY2025-26 Budget or$1.2 million
Reduction in Hold Harmless payment—($300,000)
Sales Tax by Fiscal Year
$50,000,000.00 20,0%
$45,846,]87
$45.000.000.00 $43,396,780 $43,71],383 644.657.187
$42.643,725
$40,000,000.00 $37.996.379 15.0%
$95,000,000.00 $ 101943
$30,000,000.00 $27844,579 $28,126,263 10,0%
$25,fi76,026
$25,000,000.00
$20,000,000.00 5.0%
$15,000,000.00
$10,000,000.00 0.0%
$5,000,000.00
$0.00 -5.0°%
FY 2018 FY 2019 FY 2020 FY 2021 FY 2022 FY 2023 FY 2024 FY 2025 FY 2026 Es[ FY 2027 Re
�Salee Tax -YoY%Change
11
Slide#6
FY 2026-27 Operating Budget Introduction
• General Fund Revenue
- Department Charges for Services
Emergency Medical Services @ 200% of CMS rate-$600,000
Medicaid Maximization Revenue-$1.1 million
Accumulation of$12 million revenue for Southern Human Services has been achieved
$673,000 new annual revenue from Medicaid cost settlement
$400,000 interest income from capital balance
- Planning and Inspections -$267,100
• Reduced County Subsidy of Inspection from 24%to 9%(restructuring coming in DecemberlJanuary)
Aging-$20,000 fees to begin to recognize administrative costs
ORANGE COUNTY
6 NORTH CAROLINA
Slide#7
FY 2026-27 Operating Budget Introduction
• General Fund Revenue
- Department Charges for Services
- Department of Environment,Agriculture, Parks and Recreation
$13,443 increasing fees to adult/classes
- Sherifrs Office revenue reductions-($600,000)
($300,000)jail fees due to loss of federal inmates
($300,000)copies of DMV driver history reports-office was being used to pull reports for out of county cases,higher fees
reduced this demand and saved staff time
- Food and Nutrition Services Administrative Costs-($680,000)
Federal Budget Reconciliation Bill(HR 1)reduced administrative reimbursement from 50%to 25%effective October 1,2026
Annualized reduction -$900,000
ORANGE COUNTY
7 NORTH CAROLINA
12
Slide#8
FY 2026-27 operating Budget Introduction
• Debt Service and Pay-Go
— Debt Service increase of$7.8 million
• Equivalent to 2.0 cents per$100 of value
• Exceeds all General Fund Revenue Growth($5.9 million)
— Pay-Go for Schools increase of$3.0 million
Equivalent to 0.9 cents per$100 of value
- Additional$3 million increase in FY2027-28
- Additional$3.5 million increase in FY 2028-29 to$10 million total
— Pay-Go Reduction for County Projects ($350,000)
• Prior year balances used for IT Infrastructure and Parks Maintenance Fund
ORANGE COUNTY
8 NORTH CAROLINA
Slide#9
Provide Continuation Funding to Schools
• General Fund Expenses
- K-12 Education
• Current expense increase 2.5%=$114,114,132
• Per Pupil funding will increase by$294 over FY2025-26 for a total of$6,171 per student
• Due to declining student enrollment, 2.5%increase equates to a 5%increase in per-pupil funding
Percent Increase to tal Funding Per-Pupil Funding
Base Amount $111,328,011 2.4%
1% $112,441,291 3.5%
1.5% $112,997,931 4.0%
2% $113,554,571 4.5%
2.5% $114,114,132 5.0%
3% $114,667,851 5.5
• Nurse and Student Resource Officer Contracts increase 3%=$123,744 to$4,248,550
• Pay-Go increase as recommended in Capital Investment Plan -$3.0 million
9 ORANGE
COOUNA Y
13
Slide#10
Provide Continuation Funding for Schools
Total Budgeted Students by District
13,000
12,115 12,242 12,339 11,111 12,Ifi0 11,"1 12,274 12,236 12,111
"A11,993
12,000
11,3a2 1,442 11,253
11,141 L1,Olfi
11,000 10 741
10,000
9,000 -.o.-CHCCS
7,863
7,801 7,966 8,072 B4O11 8,134 8,15fi 8,120 8,023 8,003 7,936 7,921 775
8,000 1 -FOGS
7 7,148 ,172
7,227 7,357 71437
7,000
6,000
5,000
2-6 2- 2009-10 2-1 201142 201243 201344 2-5 2-6 2-7 201749 20-9 201920 2020.21 2021-22 2022-23 2@3-24 2-5 2025-26 2-7
CHCCS Budgeted Student Decrease of 277 Students
Budgeted student percentage decreases from 58.16%to 58.08%
OCS Budgeted Student Decrease of 174 Students ORANGE COUNTY
10 Budgeted student percentage increases from 41.84%to 41.92% NORTH CAROLINA
Slide#11
Provide Continuation Funding to Schools
SchoolTotal Recommended
FY2025-26 FY2026-27 $Difference %Increase
Approved Recommended
Current Expense $111,328,011 $114,114,132 $2,786,121 2.5%
Capital Pay-Go $3,621,200 $6,683,624 $3,062,424 84.6%
Debt Service $20,840,115 $23,297,056 $2,456,941 11.8%
Health&Safety Contracts
+Enrollment Projections $4,160,806 $4,284,550 $123,744 3.0%
TOTAL $139,950,132 $148,379,362 $8,429,230 6.0%
Calculation of Percentage of General Fund Revenues Dedicated to K-12 Education
Total School Fundina Rec. $148,379,362 =46.65%
Total General Fund Revenue $318,074,591
11 ORANGE
COUNTY
NA
14
Slide#12
Provide Continuation Funding for Schools
Per Pupil Allocation
Total Current Expense Budget $114,114,132
Total Countywide Budgeted Students 18,492
Per Pupil Amount $6,171
Each budgeted student funded at the same per pupil amount
;'
L OF�I ��:CMWUMI
CHCCS 10,741 $6,171 $66,282,711
OCS 7,751 $6,171 $47,831,421
ORANGE COUNTY
12 NORTH C;AROLINA
Slide#13
Provide Continuation Funding to Schools
County Per Pupil Funding Amount History $294 increase from
$7,000 FY2026-26
$6,171
$6,00o 5 $5 877
$6,346
$5,000 4,806
$4,lfifi $4,352 $4,367 $4,367
$4,000 $3,868 $3,991
$3,571
$2,957 $3,069 $3'20 $3,096 $3,102 $3,167 $3,269
$3,000
$2,000
$1,000
5
ryOp1 s0 ry,Pf ry�,y0' ry�yti ry0,yti ryO.y^f rypyP �yN ryOtiCS ryO,y1' ��,y4' ry�yA �O,yO �.yti �.yti �ry,�1• ry�,6R ryO,�h' ry�,yH
F�C9' c� � F• � � � F� c� � � � � � Fl F+ �c cT
13 ORANGE
COUNTY
NA
15
Slide#14
Provide Continuation Funding to Schools
CHCCS Per Pupil History with District Tax
$10,000
$8,978
$9,000
$8,217
$6,000 $7,811
$7,001
$7,000
$6,000 $5,769 55,890 56,085 "
$5,093
$5,000 $4,793 ■District Taz Per Pupil
Equivalent
$4,000
$3,000 ■County Per Pupil
$2,000
$1,000
S-
M012-13 FY2013-14 FY2014-15 FY2015-11 FY2016-17 FV2017-18 FY2019-19 FV2019-20 FV2020-21 FV2021-22 FY2022-21FY2023-24 FY2024-25 FY2025-26 FY2026-27
R-
ORANGE COUNTY
14 NORTH CAROLINA
Slide#15
Provide Continuation Increase to Schools
— Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools
• Assumed teacher salary increase from the State-3%in FY 2026,4%in FY 2027
• Continuation request=7.5%increase in per pupil funding
Chapel Hill-Carrboro City SchoolsRequest
FY2026-27 Manager Continuation Request Difference
Recommended
$66,282,711 $67,838,023 ($1,555,312)
Z— Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools Expansion Reques"?Z111111111111W
FY2026-27 Manager Expansion Request Difference
Recommended
$66,282,711 $71,538,023 ($5,255,312)
ORANGE COUNTY
15 NORTH CAROLINA
16
Slide#16
Provide Continuation Increase to Schools
— Orange County Schools
• Assumed teacher salary increase from the State—3%in FY 2026, 4%in FY 2027
• Continuation request=6.6%increase in per pupil funding
• ools Continuation Request
FY2026-27 Manager Recommended Continuation Request Difference
$47,831,421 $48,544,086 ($712,665)
Orange County Schools
FY2026-27 Manager Recommended Expansion Request Difference
$47,831,421 $50,484,041 ($2,652,620)
ORANGE COUNTY
16 NORTH CAROLINA
Slide#17
FY 2026-27 Operating Budget Introduction
• General Fund Expenses
— County Department Summary
• 20 of 27 General Fund Department Budgets
— Recommended below base budget
— Operating cost and personnel reductions
— New revenue
• Total decrease in 20 General Fund Departments =$3.8 million
• Net decrease in all General Fund Departments =$1.3 million
17 ORAN GE�COUN�TY
17
Slide#18
FY 2026-27 Operating Budget Introduction
• General Fund Expenses
County Department Changes to Base Budget
$1,000,000
$500,000
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Pa��y��Cj�O�QQOQ yP��<� ��J OJ��G,, SO , �� �4 O��\y�QP�����pZ Gp e a��G�QQ��?Gy Q`�OG�P`'O�y`�P�O� $�500,000)
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���$C4,500,000)
18 NOR-r H CARC)LINA
Slide#19
FY 2026-27 Operating Budget Introduction
• General Fund Expenses
— County Personnel Costs
• 2%Wage Increase-$1.86 million
• 9% Health Insurance Increase-$1.3 million
— After$400,000 reduction for Rx Save Card and Spousal Surcharge
• 5%Local Government Retirement System Increase-$570,000
Living Wage-$500,000
- Increases from$18.18 to$20.02 per hour
- Impacts Departments with significant use of Temporary Employees:Solid Waste,Library,DEAPR
Sheriff's Office Overtime-$370,000 based on multiyear trend
19 ORAN GE�COUNATY
18
Slide#20
FY 2026-27 Operating Budget Introduction
• General Fund Expenses
— County Personnel Additions
• List Driver in Transportation to improve on time route performance
— Offset by reduction in overtime
• Deputy Director of the Health Department resulting from administrative reorganization
— No net cost to department
• Behavioral Health Director in County Manager's Office to coordinate Crisis Diversion and other behavioral
health resources
— Start in 41h Quarter
— Funded using Opioid Funds
Tax Administration Reserve for Tax Assessment Recommendations
— $250,000 available for personnel,technology,other recommendations
ORANGE COUNTY
20 NORTH CAROLINA
Slide#21
FY 2026-27 Operating Budget Introduction
• General Fund Expenses
— County Personnel Cost Reductions
• Temporary Suspension of Salary Step Program—($400,000)
— Emergency Services,Sheriff's Office,Social Services
• Position Reduction Summary
— 10.25 FTE in General Fund
— 1.0 FTE Community Development Fund
— 0.5 FTE Grant Fund(Local Reentry Grant)
— 0.5 FTE Opioid Settlement Fund
— 1.0 FTE Visitors Bureau Fund(Arts Commission)
— 0.675 FTE Solid Waste Fund
Temporary Staff Funding Reductions
— Library
— $122,121 or 6,240 hours=3.0 FTE `
ORANGE CAOLINTY
21 OR
19
Slide#22
FY 2026-27 Operating Budget Introduction
• General Fund Expenses
— County Personnel Cost Reductions
Recommended Position Eliminations by Department
- General Fund Savings-$1,140,000
- Other Fund Savings-$250,000
Department FTE Eliminated Department
Aging 0.75 Health 3.5
Animal Services 1 Housing 2
Arts Commission 0.5 Planning 2
CJRD 0.5 Register of Deeds 0.5
DEAPR 1 Solid Waste 0.675
Emergency Services 1 TOTAL 13.425
Slide#23
FY 2026-27 Operating Budget Introduction
• General Fund Expenses
— County Personnel Reallocations
• 4 vacant positions in DSS redirected to Medicaid to meet new reporting requirements
• 1 vacant Communication Manager position reallocated from Health to Community Relations to focus more
broadly on Human Services agencies
• 5 positions in Sheriff's Office will be unbudgeted and held vacant for FY2026-27
— All have been vacant for more than a year
— $440,600 savings
23 ORA GE�COUN�TY
20
Slide#24
FY 2026-27 Operating Budget Introduction
• General Fund Expenses
— County Costs to Continue
• Bonds, Insurance, and Workers Compensation-$280,000
- Based on renewal estimates
• Software as a Service-$368,000
• Fuel Costs-$595,400
- Significant uncertainty
- Assumes$6 per gallon diesel fuel and$5 per gallon gasoline
• Longtime Homeowners Assistance-$42,500
- Annualizing FY2025-26 mid-year transfer and accounting for recommended tax increase
• Telephone Efficiencies—($400,000)
- Elimination of unused and inefficient telephone charges
ORANGE COUNTY
24 NORTH CAROLINA
Slide#25
FY 2026-27 Operating Budget Introduction
• General Fund Expenses
— Maintain Outside Agency Funding
• $693,953 allocated to agencies through scorecard
• $107,500 contract with Habitat for Humanity transferred to Housing Department
— Reduce Payments to Chapel Hill and Mebane Libraries
• Two-year phase out of payment to Town of Chapel Hill-$310,662 in FY2026-27
• Elimination of payment to City of Mebane-$700
— Increase Social Justice Fund
• $50,000 increase to$200,000
— Reduce Salary Savings due to Vacancy Eliminations
• $163,969 reduction to$4.9 million
25 ORANGE�OUN�TY
21
Slide#26
FY 2026-27 Operating Budget Introduction
• Property Tax Calculation
General Fund Revenue Highlight 3enerat Fund Expense Hightights
Debt Service $ 7,800,000
Property+Sales Tax Growth $ 51900,000 Net Pay-Go $ 2,700,000
Ic-12 Current Expense+Nurse/SRO $ 2,924,000
Net Charges&Grants $ 720,000 Durham Tech $ 71000
County Personnel Costs $ 5,507,000
ransfersfrom Other Funds $ (555,000) County Personnel Reductions $ (2,101,000)
County Costs to Continue $ 1,440,000
Tax Rate Calculation
General Fund Expenses $ 19,093,276
General Fund Revenues $ (6,439,315)
Total ResidualCosts $ 12,653,315
Value of One Cent $ 3,374,390
Tax Rate 3.75 cents per$100 of �
assessedvalue ORANGE COUNTY
26 NORTH CAROLINA
Slide#27
FY 2026-27 Operating Budget Introduction
• Property Tax Rate
-Residual/Net General Fund Revenue Needed-$12,650,000
- Recommended Tax Rate Increase—3.75 cents per$100 of assessed Value
- Total Tax Rate - increases from 63.83 cents per$100 of value to 67.58 cents
27 ORAN GE�COUN�TY
22
Slide#28
Manager's Recommended Tax Rate
• Manager's Budget Recommends Increase of 3.75 cents over FY 2025-26
➢ Impact on Home @$400,000 =$150.00 ➢ Impact on Home @$500,000 =$187.50
County Tax Rate Hisory
120
99,80
100 95.00
88.00 90.30 87.80 87.80 87.80 66.79 86,79 86.34
84.30 85.80 85.80 85.89 85.80 85.80 83 77 85.04
81.87 83.12 83.58
80
67.58
fi3.83
60
40
20
0
FY 2005 FY 2006 FY 2007 FY 2008 FY 2009 FY 2010 FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017 FY 2016 FY 2019 FY 2020 FY 2021 FY 2022 FY 2023 FY 2024 FY 2025 FY 2026 FY 2027
Re
Slide#29
FY 2026-27 Operating Budget Introduction
• Visitors Bureau Fund
— FY2025-26 revenue reduction from Town of Chapel Hill —($300,000)
— Visitors Bureau operating expense reduction—($324,692)
— Arts Commission net increase—$44,641
• Increase of$70,000 for event planner pilot originally funded through mid-year budget amendment
• Offset by$25,359 in additional revenue and operating reductions
• Reduction of Communications and Outreach Manager from 1.0 FTE to 0.5 FTE($35,896)
29 ORAN GE�COUN�TY
23
Slide#30
FY 2026-27 Operating Budget Introduction
• Solid Waste Fund
— Impacted significantly by inflation, living wage, PFAS testing and remediation options, fuel
costs-> excess Fund Balance exhausted
— Solid Waste Program Fee increase from $138 to $142 per parcel
• Generates approximately$280,000
— Department to review additional options for long term sustainability
• Examine service levels and locations
• Additional fee increases are likely
ORANGE COUNTY
30 NORTH CAROLINA
Slide#31
FY 2026-27 Operating Budget Introduction
• Fire Districts
— Four of 12 Districts requesting tax rate increases in cents per$100 of value
• Damascus Fire 1.30 cents
• Eno Fire 2.00 cents
• Little River Fire 1.00 cents
• South Triangle Fire 1.30 cents
31 ORA GE�COUN�TY
24
Slide#32
-ire District Tax Rates
• Four of 12 Fire Districts Requested Tax Rate Increases
1w Requested Impact on
Tax District 2026 Tax Rate IFY i 00 i00 Home
CEDAR GROVE FIRE 7.54 7.54 $ -
CHAPEL HILL FIRE 11.50 11.50 $ -
DAMASCUS FIRE 10.20 11.50 1.30 $ 52.00
EFLAND FIRE 8.38 8.38 - $ -
ENO FIRE 8.71 10.71 2.00 $ 80.00
LITTLE RIVER FIRE 5.35 6.35 1.00 $ 40.00
NEW HOPE FIRE 12.50 12.50 low, $ -
ORANGE RURAL FIRE 9.21 9.21 $
ORANGE GROVE FIRE 7.00 7.00 $
SOUTH ORANGE FIRE 8.17 8.17 $
SOUTH TRIANGLE FIRE 10.20 11. 00 1.30 $ 52.00
WHITE CROSS FIRE 14.00 14.00 $ -
ORANGE COUNTY
32 NORTH CAROLIWA
Slide#33
Budget Consideration Schedule
FY2026-27 Budget Consideration Sch
May 12 Budget Public Hearing-Whiffed Building;Hillsborough
Work Session
May 14 Education Budget Information Session -Hillsborough
• Outside Agencies
May 20 Budget Information Session -Virtual
Work Session
May 21 Fire Districts Budget Information Session -Chapel Hill
• Public Safety
• Human Services
Work Session
May 26 Support Services
• General Government
• Community Services
May28 Budget Public Hearing-Southern Human Services;Chapel Hill
June 4 Work Session
Resolution of Intent to Adopt
June 16 Business Meeting
• Adoption of FY2026-27 Operating Budget and Capital Budget _
ORANGE COUNTY
33 NORTH CAROLINA
25
Slide#34
Questions?
ORANGE COUNTY
Chair Hamilton thanked the County Manager for the presentation.
Commissioner Portie-Ascott asked for the breakdown between lump sum property tax payments
and property taxes paid on a payment schedule.
Travis Myren said he would look into it.
Commissioner McKee asked if the County Manager considered what other reductions could be
made to reduce the tax rate increase to 2 cents.
Travis Myren said not specifically to 2 cents. He said he instituted a hiring freeze,and departments
were directed to develop flat budgets.
Commissioner McKee described the other possible increases which will affect residents, such as
fire taxes and user fees. He said he would like information on how to lower the tax rate increase to avoid
cumulative large increases in future years.
Travis Myren said that he would share information on mandatory and non-mandatory services
offered by departments.
Chair Hamilton asked how many commissioners are interested in a scenario of a 2-cent tax
increase.
Commissioner Bedford said that a reduction from 3.75 cents to 2 cents is the equivalent of$5.9
million.
Commissioner Portie-Ascott said she would also like to see a scenario of no tax increase.
Commissioner Carter thanked the County Manager and staff for their work on the budget. She
highlighted some of the reductions and some of the increases in the budget. She said it's important to
communicate the tradeoffs. She said she liked to see a scenario of no tax increase and a 2-cent increase.
Vice-Chair Fowler thanked the County Manager and staff for their work on the budget. She noted
that cutting the tax rate impacts the debt to revenue ratio and that the modeling several years out is at
19%. She said that the policy is that they want to keep it at below 15% and cutting revenues makes that
ratio worse, which could impact the interest rates the county receives when taking on debt.
Chair Hamilton said that could change what the Board decides to fund for capital.
Commissioner Bedford said the recommended wage increase is $1.86 million, which would still
leave$4 million to reduce. She said there are a multitude of scenarios and it's too ambiguous to ask what
a budget could look like. She said she would like to hear from county departments on their budgets and
propose budget amendments. She said that otherwise they'd be putting the County Manager in the
position of cutting personnel. She said when looking at mandatory vs. discretionary, they could cut the
budget to just what's mandatory but then end up doing it poorly. She cautioned against asking for
scenarios from staff.
26
Commissioner Greene agreed with Commissioner Bedford and said the County Manager
presented as bare bones of a budget as he could. She asked if debt makes up .85 cents out of the 3.75
cents recommended increase.
Travis Myren said it was debt and pay-go.
Commissioner Greene said it is remarkable that he got the increase down to .85 cents. She said
further reductions are the Board's job.
Vice-Chair Fowler agreed with Commissioner Greene and Commissioner Bedford. She said she
would not like to lose staff to other communities.
Chair Hamilton said there will be other opportunities to discuss the budget. She clarified that the
amendment process will still happen, but the request is for staff to use their expertise to create scenarios
of lower and no tax rate increases, and what the tradeoffs are. She said the scenarios give the Board
information, but they would still be making any changes.
Vice-Chair Fowler said the Board should lead on where those cuts should come from. She said the
County Manager has already made choices on what was best for the budget.
Chair Hamilton said she felt this was an appropriate request of the County Manager. She said the
Board can develop their own scenarios in the form of amendments.
Commissioner McKee gave his reasons for requesting the scenarios from the County Manager. He
felt this situation will repeat itself in future years.
Chair Hamilton asked how many commissioners supported a scenario showing zero cents and a
scenario showing 2 cents. Commissioner McKee,Commissioner Carter,Chair Hamilton,and Commissioner
Portie-Ascott supported both scenarios.
Travis Myren said he could bring back packages of the cost of things that equate to the reductions.
He said that at the end of the day,this will come back down to what the Board values,and he cannot make
those value judgments for the Board. He said it will be a reduction in services.
Chair Hamilton reviewed the budget calendar.
Commissioner Bedford said that commissioners should submit budget amendments before the
final budget public hearing.
Chair Hamilton suggested that the Board submit amendments by Tuesday, May 26, 2026.
Commissioner Bedford requested by 10 am on Wednesday, May 27, 2026.
Commissioner Greene asked how the County Manager would create a package of cuts.
Travis Myren said he would put together groups of discretionary spending for the Board to review.
Commissioner Greene clarified that the amendments would be to the County Manager's
recommended budget.
Commissioner Bedford asked if school funding would be on the table.
Travis Myren said his assumption is that current expense is on the table.
Chair Hamilton said everything can be there and the Board will decide.
Commissioner McKee said this will be a difficult process, but their job is to make hard decisions,
whether or not they are popular. He said it's important to keep Orange County as a place where people
can afford to live.
S. Public Hearings
a. Public Hearing on the Financing of Various Capital Investment Plan Projects
The Board conducted a public hearing on financing contracts for up to approximately$60.8 million to pay
for capital investment projects and equipment for the fiscal year, and consider approving a related
resolution supporting the County's application to the Local Government Commission (LGC)for its approval
of the financing arrangements.The financing and transaction costs will be included in the loan amount.
27
BACKGROUND: This item marks the first formal steps in the Board's approval of the County's annual
financing for capital investment projects and equipment for County purposes. County staff estimates that
the total amount to be financed this year will be approximately$60.8 million.
This year County staff recommends dividing the total financing package into two (2) parts, with one
financing closing in June 2026 and the other closing in late July or early August 2026.This division into two
(2) separate bond issues will allow the County to both replenish funds advanced for project costs before
the end of the County's fiscal year, and then allow the County to borrow the required funds for the crisis
diversion center without having to advance funds for a full year.
The law requires that the County conduct a public hearing on the proposed financings. A copy of the
published hearing notice is provided at Attachment 1. The notice of public hearing was advertised in the
News of Orange.
After conducting the public hearing and receiving public input, staff requests that the Board consider the
adoption of a resolution (Attachment 2). This resolution formally requests the required LGC approval,
makes certain "finding of fact" as required under the LGC's guidelines, and authorizes County staff to
continue the process. County staff has been in contact with the LGC staff, and staff expects no issues in
receiving LGC approval for either phase of the financing.This public hearing and adoption of the attached
preliminary resolution will fulfill those particular legal requirements for both financings.
If the Board adopts the attached resolution, the Board will be asked to consider a resolution giving final
approval to the Phase I financing plans at its Business meeting on May 19, 2026.
The Board will be asked to consider a resolution for the Phase II financing at the July 9, 2026 Business
meeting. The primary use of the Phase II proceeds will be for construction costs of the crisis diversion
center, and so that borrowing amount can be set after the final construction contract amounts are
established. Any changes to the plans for the Phase II financing will not have any material adverse effect
on the Phase I financing.
County staff does not expect to use any of the 2026 financing proceeds to fund capital projects for public
schools. For projects through the current fiscal year, the County has identified other funds in hand
sufficient to fund school projects. Staff expects the County will finance school project costs in the coming
fiscal year through the issuance of some of the voter-approved general obligation bonds or otherwise.
Notes regarding certain projects:
- The Blackwood Farm Park project pertains to re-graveling and drainage work.There is no financing
associated with this item for the proposed disc golf course.
The Affordable Housing project pertains to Habitat East Village (funding for site infrastructure and
development for East Village at Meadowlands 76 new units (2, 3,and 4-bedroom)of which 64 will
be affordable Habitat homes for first-time homebuyers earning between 30% and 80% of area
median income(AMI).The remaining 12 units(15%) in East Village will be market-rate homes. Pee
Wee Homes pertains to construction of three new affordable rental homes ("tiny homes") at 106
Hill Street in Carrboro.
- The 510 Meadowlands Phase 2 project pertains to remediation costs.
COLLATERAL: In this type of County installment financing,the County secures its obligations to the lender
by a mortgage-type interest in some or all the property being acquired or improved through the financing.
The County plans to secure the 2026 financing with a variety of County facilities previously pledged to
2s
secure County financings,with the addition of the crisis diversion center and the County Justice Center as
new collateral.The financing documents provide broad flexibility to release individual properties from the
financing lien if that becomes desirable for the County.
No school facilities are being used as collateral for the 2026 financings, although schools remain as
collateral for other County financings.
The pledged properties will secure not only the planned 2026 financings, but also existing County
financings. Lenders generally require that the County offer collateral equal to at least 50%of the total loan
amount.The County expects to offer collateral with a value exceeding 100%of the existing and proposed
loan amounts.
Gary Donaldson, Chief Finance Officer, made the following presentation:
Slide#1
ORANGE COUNTY
NORTH CAROLINA
Limited Obligation Bonds, Series 2026A&B
Financing Resolution and Public Hearing
Gary Donaldson,Chief Financial Officer
May 5, 2026
29
Slide#2
Purpose
➢ Conduct Public Hearing for Limited Obligation Bonds,Series 2021 pursuantto INC
Statute Section 160A-20
➢ Close Public Hearing
➢ Obtain Board Approval of Resolution to Proceed with Filing Local Government
Commission Application for Limited Obligation Bonds,Series 2026A&B
➢ The final Issuance Resolution for the Series 2026A Bonds will be considered on May 19,2026
➢ The final Issuance Resolution for the Series 2026B Bonds will be considered on July 9,2026
➢ Funds obtained for our FY 202S-26 Capital Investment Plan through the Series 2026A&B
Limited Obligation Bonds are secured by a Deed of Trust,with a security interest in
various County facilities
➢ The Series 2026A&B Limited Obligation Bonds will fund various County projects
includingthe Crisis Diversion Facility as well as the Durham Technical Community College
Academic Building
➢ A detailed project list can be found on the following page
ORANGE COUNTY
NORTH CAROLINA
Slide#3
FY 2026 Projects
A B
1 Vehicle Replacements County Vehicles $ 379.815
2 lnWorn don Techrsa l4es hrfrastructure County 419,834
3 911 Computer Aided Dispatch(CAD)Replacement County 302534
4 Emergency Services Renewal&Replacement County 484 927
5 Elect-Veridle charging Stations for County Vehicles County 402,069
6 HVAC Projects County 2130047
7 Behavioral Health Crsis Diversion Facility(Land&Design) County 3569 fi56
8 510 Meadowlands Phase 2 County 291-647
9 Board of Elections Expansion for Storage County 107,582
10 Parking Lot Improvements County 467 399
11 Facades County 911-648
12 Electrical Upgrades County 74,805
13 Fire Alarm,Fire Suppression System Replacements County 261488
1.41nterior Finish Replacements County 367,108
15 Affordable Housing County 966,500
16 Blackwood Farm Park County 61.039
17 Efland Cheeks Community Center County 150,000
18 Generator Projects County 17,154
19 Orange County Bidirectional Antenna(BDA)Upgrade County 1264,317
20 Durham Technical CC Academic Building College 11.275.000
21 Going,Grove Fire District CGFD 1,700,000
22 Solid Waste Vehicles&Equipment Solid Waste 3 834 632
23 Switsdex Sportsplex 125.581
241 Limited Obligation Bonds,Series 2026A Total $29,565,781
25 Behavioral Health Cis
Diversion Facility(Construction) County 29,929,352
26 Limited Obligation Bonds,Series 2026E Total $29,929,352
271 Limited Obligation Bonds,Series 2026A&B Grand Total $59 495133 /^ 1 �/
Note:Series 2026A&B LOBs do not Include debt financing for school capital projects, p A
Current school capital projects are anticipated to he funded from reactivated 2019 ORANGE 40UN I I Bond Proceeds,Increased capital Reserves,and Pay Go NORTH CAROLINA
30
Slide#4
Key Financing Terms
Limited Obligation Bonds,Series 2026A&B
➢ Security Pledge-County assets serve as collateral,with payments subject to annual County appropriations
➢ Maturity Term-5-20 Year maturities matches the useful life of the assets
➢ April 1 and October 1 Repayment Dates to Bank Trustee;First Interest Payment on October 1,2026,and First
Principal Payment on April 1,2028,consistent with the Debt Model
➢ Estimated Interest Rates- Between 4.5%-5.5%subject to market conditions
➢ Maximum Annual Debt Service-Estimated to be$6.395 million in FY 2028
➢ Source of Repayment-Property Taxes,Solid Waste Fees,Sportsplex Fees,and OGFD Repayment
➢ Because Limited Obligation Bonds are not secured by a direct pledge ofthe County's taxing power,they are
usually rated one notch below the County's general obligation bonds
➢ Current Limited Obligation Bonds-Aa1/AA+/AA+from Moody's,Standard&Poor's,and Fitch Ratings
V1
ORANGE COUNTY
NORTH CAROLINA
Slide#S
Limited Obligation Bonds Collateral Overview
➢ Security Pledge-County assets serve as collateral,with payments subject to
annual County appropriations
➢ Lenders generally require that the value of the collateral be equal to at least
50%of the financing amount(for example,at least$10 million of collateral
for a$20 million loan)
➢ The collateral for the Series 2026A&B Bonds will include the County's
Northern and Southern Campuses,the County Justice Facility,and the new
Crisis Diversion Facility.The value of this collateral will comfortably exceed
lender requirements
➢ Pursuant to the County's financing document,the County can continue to
borrow money against this same collateral pool as long as a meaningful
portion of the amount financed is used to improve property in the collateral
pool
ORANGE COUNTY
NORTH CAROLINA
31
Slide#6
Debt Service Model Metrics
All CIP Projects (Tax-Supported Debt)
Debt Ratios 10-year Payout Debt to AV DS to GF Revenues
2026 63.55% 1.11% 11.42%
2027 58.82% 1.58% 12.78%
2028 57.55% 1.90% 13.64%
2029 61.14% 1.85% 17.31%
2030 63.36% 1.66% 18.61%
2031 62.29% 1.81% 18.30%
2032 62.87% 1.85% 18.60%
2033 65.59% 1.73% 19.71%
2034 68.13% 1.49% 19.51%
2035 95.47% 1.38% 18.63%
2036 97.51% 1.28% 17.71%
�1
ORANGE COUNTY
NORTH CAROLINA
Gary Donaldson said rating agencies take comfort in the modeling the county does along with the
county's financial policies.
Slide#7
Questions
ORANGE COUNTY
IORTH CAROLINA
Commissioner Bedford said some of the projects go back to 2024 or older, and the county
advanced funds for them. She said that the county is borrowing to replenish its cash reserves. She asked
if the resolution is for the first part of the series.
Gary Donaldson said Series B will come back to the Board on July 9.
Chair Hamilton said the whole amount is$60 million for phases 1 and 2.
Gary Donaldson said yes, it is the combined series A and B.
Commissioner Bedford clarified that the Board is having a public hearing tonight, and then the
Board will vote on a resolution for Series A.
Donaldson said this resolution is for Series A and B. He said they will come back with the final
issuances on May 19 for Series A, and July 9 is Series B.
32
Chair Hamilton said most of the funds had been advanced, and this is borrowing to recoup that
cost.
Gary Donaldson said the only exceptions are the Durham Tech building and the fire alarm.
A motion was made by Vice-Chair Fowler,seconded by Commissioner Greene,to open the public
hearing.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Adam Beeman expressed concerns about unwise budgetary decisions that result in a redundancy
of services. He gave an example of recycling trucks to collect recycling along with upgrades to solid waste
convenience centers. He felt that recycling pick up is a subsidy for people who already pay for private
trash services. He said it's one in a line of small items that add up. He requested that the Board invest
in the schools rather than in Durham Tech and gave an example of the personal support he's given to the
Orange High School FFA program. He shared his opinions of Durham Tech's training programs. Regarding
affordable housing, he noted that the only way to provide it is by densifying around existing services. He
suggested that the Board invest in the Town of Hillsborough water system and increase capacity.
A motion was made by Vice-Chair Fowler, seconded by Commissioner McKee, to close the public
hearing.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
A motion was made by Vice-Chair Fowler, seconded by Commissioner Bedford, to approve the
resolution supporting the application to the Local Government Commission for approval of the financings.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
6. Regular Agenda
a. Approval of a Contract with GAR Associates, LLC to Evaluate the Reappraisal and Tax Assessment
Process in Orange County
The Board approved a contract with GAR Associates, LLC to evaluate the reappraisal and tax assessment
process in Orange County and make recommendations for improvement.
BACKGROUND: The Orange County Tax Administration Office completed a revaluation of real property in
2025. Following community feedback and Board concerns about potential deficiencies in the County's
reappraisal process, the Board of County Commissioners created a Tax Assessment Work Group and
charged it to evaluate the policies, processes, and procedures used by Tax Administration to determine
property values. Work Group representatives include three (3) County Commissioners, the County
Manager,the Director from the Community Justice Collaborative of the North Carolina Housing Coalition,
the Tax Administrator, a representative from the Orange County Property Tax Justice Coalition,the Budget
Director,the Director of Civil Rights and Civic Life, a non-profit housing provider,the Community Relations
Director, and four(4)community members representing different geographic areas in the County.
One of the specific tasks of the Work Group is to provide feedback and input to a consultant retained by
the County to conduct a detailed evaluation of reappraisal processes and make recommendations for
improvement. In December 2025,the County issued a Request for Proposals(RFP)to conduct this analysis.
33
The County received two (2) responses. The County Manager, Budget Director, Deputy Tax Assessor, and
the three (3) Commissioners appointed to the Work Group initially reviewed the proposals and advanced
both to the Work Group to provide its recommendation. All of the parties agreed that the proposal from
GAR Associates, LLC was the most responsive to the scope of services outlined in the RFP.
Scope of Services
The consultant was asked to solicit input and feedback from the Tax Assessment Work Group, County
Commissioners, County staff, members of the Board of Equalization and Review, and other stakeholders
as it conducts its evaluation. The scope of work as detailed in the attached RFP includes nine (9)elements:
1. Review of processes, procedures,and methodologies used by the Tax Office to assess property
values.
2. Analysis of Schedule of Values based on best practice,usability,and consistency of application.
3. Evaluation of organizational capacity to determine appropriate staffing levels, skill sets, and
technology resources
4. Review of data quality and accuracy of assessment neighborhoods, qualified sales, and land
values with specific emphasis on commercial values
5. Evaluation of statistical tools and models to yield the most accurate value assessments.
6. Review of operational efficiency in terms of staffing utilization, workflow, scheduling, and
automation.
7. Review of the appeal process to improve accessibility to taxpayers and value adjustments.
8. Review of communication strategies and transparency of public information materials,
website content, and other public messaging platforms.
9. Evaluation of the frequency of the revaluation cycle.
Tasks and Deliverables
The proposal also requires the vendor to accomplish several specific tasks:
1. Meet with the Tax Assessment Work Group at milestone stages of the evaluation to report on
progress and solicit feedback
2. Provide updates to the Board of Commissioners on the status of the evaluation and solicit
input
3. Prepare a draft report to the County that will be presented to stakeholders for input and
direction prior to finalizing the report
4. Create a final report that represents a comprehensive analysis of the reappraisal process and
actionable recommendations for improvement based on best practices
5. Provide short term corrective actions as well as long term strategic recommendations with an
implementation plan,timelines, and estimated costs
6. Prepare and present a public facing summary report
7. Deliver all work products related to the evaluation to the County in a format that that can be
updated by County staff as conditions change in the future.
34
Travis Myren made the following presentation:
Slide#1
ORANGE COUNTY
NORTH CAROLINA
Approval of Contract with GAR Associates to
Evaluate the Reappraisal Process
Board of Commissioners
Business Meeting
May 5, 2025
Slide#2
Purpose
• Approve a contract with GAR Associates, LLC to evaluate the reappraisal
and tax assessment process in Orange County and make
recommendations for improvement.
ORANGE COUNTY
2 NORTH CAROLINA
35
Slide#3
Background
Revaluation completed in 2025 to value all property in the County to reflect market
conditions/market value
• Required by NCGS 105-286fa1(21:
— A county whose population is 75,000 or greater according to the most recent annual population estimates certified to the Secretary by the State
Budget Officer must conduct a reappraisal of real nroaertv when the county's sales assessment ratio determined under G.S.105-289(h)is less
than.85 or greater than 1.15,as indicated on the notice the county receives under G.S.105-284.A reappraisal required under this subdivision
must become effective no later than January 1 of the earlier of the folio wing years:
a. The third year following the year the county received the notice.
b. The eighth year following the year of the county's last reappraisal.
• In 2022, Orange County received notice of a mandatory revaluation
- Sales ratio for 2022 was 0.8197 which was below the standard of 0.85
- By 2024,sales ratio dropped to 0.6445
ORANGE COUNTY
3 NORTH CAROLINA
Slide#4
Background
Following the Revaluation, the Board received community feedback and concerns about
potential deficiencies and areas for improving the reappraisal process
• County Actions to Date
- Provided technical support on how to file an appeal of value
Completed countywide and neighborhood level equity studies—adjusted values accordingly
- Created 15 member Tax Assessment Work Group
Tax Assessment Work Group Membership
Three Commissioners County Manager
Representative from Orange County Property Tax Justice Coalition Tax Administrator(Acting)
Representative from North Carolina Housing Coalition Budget Director
Non-Profit Housing Provider Director of Civil Rights and Civic Life
Four Community Members Community Relations Director
4 ORAR GE�COUNATY
36
Slide#5
Background
• Work Group Charge in part...
- Review the scope of services for consulting services
- Participate in vendor selection
- Provide feedback and input to a consultant retained by the County to make recommendations...that will improve and
ensure the accuracy and fairness of property assessments
- Provide feedback to the consultant at milestone stages of the project:data gathering, data analysis, alternatives
analysis, recommendation development, and the finalization of recommendations
ORANGE COUNTY
5 NORTH CAROLINA
Slide#6
Background
• Request for Proposals Issued in December 2025
• Initial Written Responses Scored by Commissioner/StafTeam
- Three Commissioners on Tax Assessment Work Group
County Manager, Budget Director, Deputy Tax Assessor
- Advanced both proposals to the Tax Assessment Work Group for presentations and recommendation
• Tax Assessment Work Group concluded GAR (Grant Appraisal and Research)Associates, LLC
proposal was most responsive to the County's needs
• Consultant is charged to solicit input and feedback from
Tax Assessment Work Group
- County Commissioners
County staff _
Board of Equalization and Review and other stakeholders
ORANGE A OLINA Y 6
37
Slide#7
Scope of Services
• Scope of Services Summary
— Review of processes, procedures, and methodologies used by the Tax Office to assess property values.
— Analysis of Schedule of Values based on best practice, usability, and consistency of application.
— Evaluation of organizational capacity to determine appropriate staffing levels, skill sets,and technology resources.
— Review of data quality and accuracy of assessment neighborhoods, qualified sales,and land values with specific
emphasis on commercial values.
— Evaluation of statistical tools and models to yield the most accurate value assessments.
— Review of operational efficiency in terms of staffing utilization, workflow, scheduling, and automation.
ORANGE COUNTY
7 NORTH C;AROLINA
Slide#8
Scope of Services
• Scope of Services Summary
— Review of the appeal process to improve accessibility to taxpayers and value adjustments.
— Review of communication strategies and transparency of public information materials,website content, and other
public messaging platforms.
— Evaluation of the frequency of the revaluation cycle
S ORARNGE�COUNTY
38
Slide#9
Tasks and Deliverables
• Task and Deliverable Summary
— Meet with the Tax Assessment Work Group at milestone stages of the evaluation to report on progress and solicit
feedback
— Provide updates to the Board of Commissioners on the status of the evaluation and solicit input
— Prepare a draft report to the County that will be presented to stakeholders for input and direction prior to finalizing the
report
— Create a final report that represents a comprehensive analysis of the reappraisal process and actionable
recommendations for improvement based on best practices
ORANGE COUNTY
9 NORTH CAROLINA
Slide#10
Tasks and Deliverables
• Task and Deliverable Summary
— Provide short term corrective actions as well as long term strategic recommendations with an implementation plan,
timelines, and estimated costs
— Prepare and present a public facing summary report
— Deliver all work products related to the evaluation to the County
• Cost of the Contract: $110,000
— Funded using existing contract services funds budgeted in the County Manager's Office and Tax Administration Office
o ORAN GE�COUNATY
39
Slide#11
Manager's Recommendation
• Approve and authorize the Manager to sign a contract with GAR
Associates, LLC to conduct an evaluation of the reappraisal and tax
assessment process in Orange County and make recommendations for
improvement to the Board of Commissioners.
„ ORANGE N COUNTY
cn
Slide#12
Questions?
ORANGE COUNTY
NORTH CAROLINA
Commissioner Bedford said she supported the contract and asked that staff make it possible for
the Board of Commissioners to hear the final presentation.
Travis Myren said they would do so.
Commissioner McKee asked what assurances there will be that the vendor will improve the issues.
Travis Myren said the county knows what some of the issues are already. He gave some examples
of what could be improved with expertise from the vendor.
Commissioner Carter said there is no guarantee that all problems will be solved, she believes the
county will do a better job with tax assessments, and it will be more equitable.
Commissioner McKee also asked that the in-house review of egregiously undervalued commercial
properties be prioritized separately from the GAR contract.
Chair Hamilton stated that getting property tax assessment correct is one of the most important
things the Board can do and said the board is working with a recruiter to hire a new tax administrator.
40
She said they are considering amendments to the county ordinance to clarify oversight of the tax
administrator's office.
Commissioner Portie-Ascott said that the work group learned that several things the board
assumed could be done in-house actually require significant structural changes to accomplish.
A motion was made by Vice-Chair Fowler, seconded by Commissioner McKee, to approve and
authorize the Manager to sign the contract with GAR Associates, LLC to conduct an evaluation of the
reappraisal and tax assessment process in Orange County and make recommendations for improvement
to the Board of Commissioners.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
b. HOME-ARP Allocation Plan Substantial Amendment
The Board approved a resolution amending the HOME-ARP Allocation Plan to use the federal funds for
Tenant-Based Rental Assistance (either Permanent Supportive Housing or Rapid Rehousing) instead of
development of new affordable housing.
BACKGROUND: The 2021 American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) provided $5 billion in ARPA funds to be
administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) through the HOME
Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) to address the critical need for homelessness assistance and
supportive services across the country.As a HOME program participating jurisdiction, Orange County was
awarded $1,371,401 of HOME ARP funds to benefit the community's qualifying populations. HUD issued
guidance for the utilization of the HOME ARP funds through CPD-Notice 21-10 on September 13, 2021.
HOME ARP funds were a one-time allocation and must be spent by September 30, 2030.
HOME-ARP funds may be used for the following activities:
1. Planning and administration of the HOME-ARP Program
2. Development of affordable rental housing
3. Tenant-based rental assistance
4. Provision of supportive services
5. Acquisition and development of non-congregate shelter
6. Nonprofit capacity building and operating assistance
HOME ARP funds must be used to primarily benefit individuals or families in the following qualifying
populations:
1. Homeless, as defined in 24 CFR 91.5 Homeless (1), (2), or(3)
2. At risk of homelessness, as defined in 24 CFR 91.5 At risk of homelessness
3. Fleeing, or attempting to flee, domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking (as
defined by HUD in 24 CFR 5.2003) or human trafficking (as outlined in the Trafficking Victims
Protection Act of 2000 as amended [22 USC 7102]); and
4. Other populations, where providing supportive services or assistance under section 212(a) of
the National Affordable Housing Act 42 USC 12472(a) would prevent a family's homelessness
or serve those with greatest risk of housing instability.
41
At the Business meeting on February 7,2023,the Board of Commissioners approved the original Allocation
Plan,which was to allocate$1,165,291 to the development of new affordable housing,with the remainder
($205,710)going to program administration.
The HOME Consortium is now recommending that the Plan be amended to allocate$1,081,113 to Tenant-
Based Rental Assistance, $194,290 to supportive services (case management), and $95,998 to program
administration. The plan would be to request proposals for any Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) or
Rapid Rehousing (RRH) projects in the community, with hopes of increasing the number of service
providers in the County. It is recommended that the amounts dedicated to rental assistance and supportive
services could be altered somewhat according to the needs of service provider awarded the funds;
however,the administrative portion could not change.
Justification for Amendment
Changes in policy and the economic environment since the original HOME-ARP proposal justify this
amendment, including:
1. Local funding provides support for the development of affordable housing in excess of planned
HOME-ARP allocation.
2. Emergency Housing Assistance has been significantly reduced, deepening the need for tenant-
based rental assistance.
3. The most significant barrier to ending homelessness has been identified as inadequate medium-
term, service-enriched support such as Permanent Supportive Housing(PSH) or Rapid Rehousing.
4. The development of new housing that serves primarily the HOME-ARP population is considered
unfeasible by current County Housing staff.
Blake Rosser, Housing Director, made the following presentation:
Slide#1
n ORANGE COUNTY
HOUSING DEPARTMENT
HOME-ARP Substantial Amendment
May 5, 2026
42
Slide#2
Background
•2021 American Rescue Plan Act
(ARPA) provided extra funding for
the HOME program
•Orange County awarded $1,371,401 in
HOME-ARP funds
n ORANGECOUNTY
O HOUSING DEPARTMENT
Slide#3
Background, continued
•Funds may only be used to assist
residents exiting homelessness
•Funds may be used for development,
acquisition, supportive services,
capacity building, and tenant-based
rental assistance
nORANGE COUNTY
O HOUSING DEPARTMENT
Slide#4
Original plan was for development
•February 7, 2023, BOCC approves plan
•Allocate $1,165,291 for development of
new affordable housing
•$205,710 for administration
nORANGE COUNTY
0 HOUSING DEPARTMENT
43
Slide#5
HOME Consortium wants to shift funding
•October 2025, HOME Consortium voted
to recommend amendment
•Allocate$1,081,113 for tenant-based rental
assistance (TBRA)
•$194,290 to supportive services
•$95,998 to program administration
•Specific allocation amounts for TBRA and
Supportive Services are tentative, according
to needs of service provider
n ORANGE COUNTY
0 HOUSING DEPARTMENT
Slide#6
Reasons for amendment
•Staff considers it financially unfeasible to
develop new housing geared specifically
toward residents experiencing homelessness
•OC has larger pools of local funds geared
towards development
•Emergency Housing Assistance has been
reduced
•There is not enough Permanent Supportive
Housing or Rapid Rehousing in the county
n ORANGECOUNTY
0 HOUSING DEPARTMENT
Slide#7
Next Steps
•Pending BOCC approval, staff will
request proposals for Permanent
Supportive Housing (PSH) and Rapid
Rehousing (RRH) projects in Summer
2026.
•Staff hopes to award funds by late
Summer 2026
n ORANGECOUNTY
0 HOUSING DEPARTMENT
44
Slide#8
Questions
•Blake Rosser, Housing Director
•brosser@orangecountync.gov
•919-245-2492
n ORANGE COUNTY
0 HOUSING DEPARTMENT
PUBLIC COMMENT:
Delores Bailey said she is understanding of the restriction that the HOME-ARP funds are
designated specifically for residents who are experiencing or exiting homelessness, per the federal
definition. However, she said she was disappointed these funds would not be accessible to many families
she assists, who are struggling with monthly rental payments but do not qualify under the federal
homeless definition. She highlighted EMPOWERment's successful role in administering rental assistance
programs during the COVID-19 pandemic to help families with their utility payments. She shared that on
May 4th, a life was lost, and EMPOWERment lost four of its 14 housing units in a tragic house fire on
Fidelity Street in Carrboro.She said on April 1st, residents successfully moved into the Peach Apartments,
marking a significant achievement for the organization. She expressed her continued commitment to
serving families in need and highlighted the urgent necessity for ongoing support to those struggling with
housing stability.
Commissioner Carter asked how much emergency housing has been reduced.
Blake Rosser said that's been over the course of 5 years. He said at the peak,they spent$8 million,
utilizing ARPA funds. He said once they ran out of federal funds, they had to scale back to what could be
supported with local funds.
Commissioner Carter asked what the award process will be.
Blake Rosser said it will be similarto the HOME process,and will be taken to the HOME Consortium
for recommendations.
Commissioner Carter asked who is serving on the HOME Consortium.
Commissioner Greene listed the members.
Commissioner Portie-Ascott asked if there other funds that could support the populations that
Delores Bailey referenced. She asked if the county was only focusing on one population going forward.
Blake Rosser said this is a one-time amendment for funds awarded in 2021. He said populations
supported by Delores Bailey's non-profit will continuing to be assisted with CIP funds.
Commissioner Portie-Ascott asked how many people will be helped with these funds
Blake Rosser said the funds must be spent by 2030 and will help about 30 families each year.
Commissioner Portie-Ascott asked if it will be the same 30 families receiving assistance.
Blake Rosser said it will largely be the same, but there may be some transitions off permanent
supportive housing.
Commissioner Portie-Ascott asked if the waitlist is 100 people.
45
Blake Rosser said that is for Section 8.
Commissioner Bedford asked if an agency could apply that can only do the social work supportive
services part. She asked if more than one agency could provide services
Blake Rosser said it could multiple agencies, but they would prefer to work with just one agency.
He said IFC is an example. He said the model is scattered site housing, meaning that the agency has the
subsidy funds, and they provide supportive services, but housing is throughout the community. He said
they do not have the same lack of voucher housing.
Commissioner Bedford asked if these could port outside of county lines.
Blake Rosser said vouchers used to, but they no longer do. He said he suspects that that they can
only lease in Orange County.
Commissioner Greene said the key point is that there is not enough permanent supportive housing
and that the key to get people out of homelessness is to have the funding to provide these services. She
said she is supportive.
Blake Rosser said it is considered a best practice.
Chair Hamilton said while she supports this change,she has concerns about using one-time money
for ongoing issues. She said that they need to think ahead for when the funds run out and if they are going
to try to maintain the program.
Blake Rosser said he has considered it and said that they may need to set a cutoff date in the future
and begin weaning people off the program. He said that federal administrative priorities might also
change.
Commissioner Carter said this is intended to be permanent supportive housing, with the hope
that people will transition out of the program.
Blake Rosser said that is the goal,that people are learning how to be self-sufficient and eventually
able to pay a portion of their rent until they no longer need the subsidy.
Commissioner Bedford said it's important that some people will need permanent supportive
housing and that they do better being housed.
Commissioner Carter agreed, and asked if these funds will support that population.
Commissioner Bedford said many of the people who receive permanent supportive housing have
underlying medical and mental health co-diagnoses, as well as borderline IDD.
Blake Rosser said the supportive housing is also meant to help individuals get support from other
community resources.
A motion was made by Commissioner Greene, seconded by Vice-Chair Fowler, to approve and
authorize the Chair to sign the resolution amending the HOME-ARP Allocation Plan to use the federal funds
for Tenant-Based Rental Assistance (either Permanent Supportive Housing or Rapid Rehousing).
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
7. Reports
None.
8. Consent Agenda
• Removal of Any Items from Consent Agenda
Commissioner Greene removed 8-f from the consent agenda
• Approval of Remaining Consent Agenda
46
A motion was made by Commissioner McKee, seconded by Vice-Chair Fowler, to approve the
remaining consent agenda.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
• Discussion and Approval of the Items Removed from the Consent Agenda
Commissioner Greene moved for the Board to approve the proclamation as amended during her
comments earlier in the meeting. Commissioner McKee seconded the motion.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
a. Minutes for April 7,2026 and April 14, 2026
The Board approved the minutes for the April 7, 2026 and April 14, 2026 Board of Commissioners
Meetings.
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 two (2) taxpayers with a total of three
(3) bills that will result in a reduction of revenue.
d. Older Americans Month Proclamation
The Board approved a proclamation joining Federal and State governments in designating the month of
May 2026 as Older Americans Month and a time to honor older adults for their contributions to the
community.
e. Provider Appreciation Day Proclamation
The Board approved a proclamation designating May 8, 2026 as Provider Appreciation Day in Orange
County.
f. Jewish American Heritage Month Proclamation
The Board approved a proclamation designating May 2026 as Jewish American Heritage Month in Orange
County.
g. Professional Clerks to the Boards of County Commissioners'Week Proclamation
The Board approved a proclamation designating May 3-9, 2026 as Professional Clerks to the Boards of
County Commissioners' Week in Orange County.
h. Approval of Fiscal Year 2025-26 Ambulance Purchase
The Board approved and authorized the Manager to sign all documents necessary for the procurement of
two (2)Advanced Life Support (ALS) ambulances from Excellance, Inc.
i. North Carolina Local Government Commission Audit Contract with Mauldin&Jenkins, LLC
The Board will consider:
1) Authorized a contract with Mauldin & Jenkins, LLC to perform full FY 2026 audit services which
includes financial, single audits and financial statement preparation; and
2) Authorized the Chair and Finance Officer to sign the North Carolina Government Commission audit
contract on behalf of the BOCC pending staff and attorney review.
j. Construction Contract Award for Southern Human Services Center Solar Installation
The Board:
1) Approved the County entering into a construction contract with 8MSolar, LLC for the solar
installation at the Southern Human Services Center; and
47
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.
k. Resolution Amending the 2025 Eno-Haw Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan
The Board adopted a resolution approving an amendment to the 2025 Eno-Haw Regional Hazard
Mitigation Plan.
9. County Manager's Report
Travis Myren had no report.
10. County Attorney's Report
John Roberts said The County Attorney briefly noted that last week marked the general bill filing
deadline for the short legislative session. He explained that the General Assembly may still consider
crossover bills — those that passed one chamber in 2025 — as well as budget bills, constitutional
amendments, and appointments.
11. Appointments
None.
12. Information Items
• Tax Collector's Report— Numerical Analysis
• Tax Assessor's Report—Releases/Refunds under$100
• Memorandum — Update on Manager's Work Group to Address Low-Barrier Housing Needs
and Opportunities
Commissioner Bedford said she appreciated the memorandum on low-barrier housing needs.
13. Closed Session
None.
14. Adjournment
A motion was made by Commissioner McKee,seconded by Commissioner Bedford,to adjourn the
meeting at 9:40 p.m.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
Jean Hamilton, Chair
Recorded by Laura Jensen, Clerk to the Board
Submitted for approval by Laura Jensen, Clerk to the Board