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Agenda 07-09-2026; 8-a - Minutes for May 28, 2026 and June 2, 2026
1 ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT Meeting Date: July 9, 2026 Action Agenda Item No. 8-a SUBJECT: Minutes for May 28, 2026 and June 2, 2026 DEPARTMENT: Board of County Commissioners ATTACHMENT(S): INFORMATION CONTACT: Draft minutes (under separate cover) Laura Jensen, Clerk to the Board, 919- 245-2130 PURPOSE: To correct and/or approve the draft minutes as submitted by the Clerk to the Board as listed below. BACKGROUND: In accordance with 153A-42 of the General Statutes, the Governing Board has the legal duty to approve all minutes that are entered into the official journal of the Board's proceedings. Attachment 1: May 28, 2026 Budget Public Hearing and Work Session Attachment 2: June 2, 2026 Business Meeting FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no financial impact associated with this item. ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PLAN: This item supports: • GUIDING PRINCIPLE — COMMUNICATION AND AWARENESS We provide information and opportunities for engagement in a transparent manner so that all in our community have knowledge, understanding, and a voice. RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board minutes as presented or as amended. Attachment 1 1 1 DRAFT MINUTES 2 ORANGE COUNTY 3 BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS 4 BUDGET AND CAPITAL INVESTMENT PLAN PUBLIC HEARING 5 AND WORK SESSION 6 May 28, 2026 7 7:00 p.m. 8 9 The Orange County Board of Commissioners met for a Budget and Capital Investment Plan Public 10 Hearing and Work Session on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at the Southern Human Services 11 Center in Chapel Hill, NC. 12 13 COUNTY COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Chair Jean Hamilton,Vice-Chair Amy Fowler, and Commissioners 14 Jamezetta Bedford, Marilyn Carter, Sally Greene, Earl McKee, and Phyllis Portie-Ascott 15 COUNTY COMMISSIONERS ABSENT: None 16 COUNTY ATTORNEYS PRESENT: Martha Bordogna, Staff Attorney 17 COUNTY STAFF PRESENT: County Manager Travis Myren, Deputy County Manager Caitlin Fenhagen, 18 and Clerk to the Board Laura Jensen (All other staff members will be identified appropriately below) 19 20 Chair Hamilton called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. All commissioners were present. 21 22 1. Opening Remarks 23 Chair Hamilton welcomed everyone in attendance and for their comments and participation in 24 the budget process. 25 Chair Hamilton explained the process for making public comments. 26 Commissioner McKee said he was withdrawing amendment CIP-608 regarding funds for 27 affordable housing. 28 29 2. Presentation of the County Manager's Recommended FY 2026-27 Budget 30 31 County Manager Travis Myren made the following presentation: 32 33 Slide#1 ORANGE COUNTY NORTH CAROLINA Manager's Recommended FY2026-27 Operating Budget May 12 & 28, 2026 Budget Public Hearings 34 2 1 Slide#2 FY2026-27 Operating Budget Introduction FY2026-27 Operating Budget Priorities i. 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 s. 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 2 3 4 Slide#3 FY 2026-27 Operating Budget Introduction • Total Recommended Budget at a Glance -Total General Fund Revenue -$325,130,721 $276,868,111 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 ORoN HCAOUNATY 5 6 7 3 1 Slide#4 FY 2026-27 Operating Budget Introduction • General Fund Revenue - Property Tax Natural Growth—2.27% Increase =$4.7 million Sales Tax—2.7% over FY2025-26 Budget or$1.2 million • Reduction in Hold Harmless payment—($300,000) Department Charges for Services Emergency Medical Services @ 200%of CMS rate-$600,000 Medicaid Maximization Revenue-$1.1 million Punning and Inspections-$267,100 Sheriff's Office revenue reductions—($600,000) Food and Nutrition Services Administrative Costs—($680,000) ORANGE COUNTY 4 NORTH CAROLINA 2 3 4 Slide#S FY 2026-27 Operating Budget Introduction • Debt Service and Pay-Go — Debt Service increase of$7.8 million • Exceeds all General Fund Revenue Growth($5.9 million) — Pay-Go for Schools increase of$3.0 million — Pay-Go Reduction for County Projects ($350,000) • Prior year balances used for IT Infrastructure and Parks Maintenance Fund s ORoIG--IEc OUNATY 5 6 7 4 1 Slide#6 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 - CHCCS District Tax adds$2,807 in per student funding=$8,978 for CHCCS per student • Due to declining student enrollment, 2.5%increase equates to a 5%increase in per-pupil funding k-tal Funding ase 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 -$3.0 mullion - -- ORANGE COUNTY 6 NORTH CAROLINA 2 3 4 Slide#7 Provide Continuation Funding for Schools Total Budgeted Students by District 13,000 12,115 12,242 12,339 12,239 12,160 12,387 12,274 12,236 12,351 13,820 11,993 12,000 1,442 11,384 11,253 11,141 11,01$ 11,000 _ 10741 10,000 9,000 - CHCCS 7,863 7,801 7.966 8,072 8,011 8,134 8,156 6,130 8,023 8,003 7,936 7,925 8,000 7,751 fQC5 7,227 7,148 7,172 7,357 7,437 7,000 6,000 5,000 2007-08 2008-09 2N9-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 201416 201417 2017-18 2018-19 20£9-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 2023-24 202425 2025-26 202427 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 5 7 Budgeted student percentage increases from 41.84%to 41.92% NORTH CAROLINA 6 7 5 1 Slide#8 Provide Continuation Funding to Schools County Per Pupil Funding Amount History $264 rrnor e1 $7,000 FY2025.26 $6,171 $6,000 $5$77 $5,346 $5,000 $4,1fi5 $4,352 $4,367 $4,367 54,000 $3,571 $2.457 $3,069 $3,200 $3,096 $3,102 $3,167 $+,269 $3,000 $2,000 51,000 — S- A6 O•i h0 .y'1 ,y'y ti'h tid ,yy 16 h'1 ,yB ,y% ;y0 ,ti1 .,�, �^' p, 15 '�`° ti� 4��1 ��A ry,Ff. ryoti0" ti41~ tiQyry votiM, :e �Q,y'i �O,y4f �oti1' ryoti4• ryO,yO ti�~a ' ryO,y'L: Oryyti ryOtip. ryotiy ry6,�b' � Fa(A' 4'� F� c� � � F� Fa F� E� � � 4� ORANGE COUNTY 8 NORTH CAROLINA 2 3 4 Slide#9 Provide Continuation Increase to Schools — Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools • Recommended Current Expense increase of$1,529,525 over FY2025-26 • Assumed teacher salary increase from the State—3%in FY 2026,4%in FY 2027 • Continuation request=7.5%increase in per pupils funding Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools FY2026-27 Manager Continuation Request Difference Recommended $66,282,711 $67,838,023 ($1,555,312) Hill-Carrborow Chapel .. Expansion FY2026-27 Manager Expansion Request Difference Recommended $66,282,711 $71,538,023 ($5,255,312) 9 ON ORTH CARONGE LTY YNA 5 6 7 6 1 Slide#10 Provide Continuation Increase to Schools — Orange County Schools • Recommended Current Expense increase of$1,256,196 • Assumed teacher salary increase from the State—3%in FY 2026,4%in FY 2027 • Continuation request=6.6%increase in per pupil funding Orange County Schools 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 10 NORTH CAROLINA 2 3 4 Slide#11 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 1, ORANGE HCAOUNATY 5 6 7 8 7 1 Slide#12 FY 2026-27 Operating Budget Introduction • General Fund Expenses County Department Changes to Base Budget $1,000,000 $500,000 GFS 41 G15 4Q Oe� �Oa��J QQ5 OQ4 QOQ' QR- �O-Vo X05 G�5��� \GQ9 Ory QS QJ` G�10 QS��G ����tG�S qQ \qc� aP qJ O9 PC' -Vg J` C� JQ O J " F J p J Q 4 Q G O O Q Q Q F�5��� `5lG OG �� P(t \5� 1�P 4�9 `O?l'� �'4�QPQ QPQ�o'O�a0 ��Q OQF qQ Q5 `'C g4 Pa,���gr^O FQQOQ-�P2�\1�-%0J�CyGO�OJ���O� ����0��`��Q��l�k��OagOQ�Ptiaa����PQ G�G � $500,000) 50 qP c�J OZ met AQP G �� G )J Q4 QQ t QP J5 1J �\O ��a QQ� `Q1 qQ Q` 00 OQ qJ� P`" O�Q !� SPOe` 5Q GZ J�v GO �� Q Q� p� c` GQ\� � \�Fq F` 12 NORTH CAROLINA 2 3 4 Slide#13 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 • 5%Local Government Retirement System Increase-$570,000 • Tax Administration Reserve for Tax Assessment Recommendations -$250,000 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 13 ORANGE HOUNCAATY 5 6 7 8 8 1 Slide#14 FY 2026-27 Operating Budget Introduction • General Fund Expenses — County Personnel Cost Reductions • Temporary Suspension of Salary Step Program—($400,000) • Position Reduction Summary — 10.25 FTE in General Fund . General Fund Savings-$1,140,000 — Library Temporary Staff Funding Reductions-$122,121 — 5 positions in Sheriff's Office will be unbudgeted and held vacantfor FY2026-27-$440,600 savings — 3.675 FTE Reduction in Other Funds Other Fund Savings-$250,000 — County Costs to Continue • Bonds, Insurance, and Workers Compensation-$280,000 • Software as a Service-$368,000 • Fuel Costs-$595,400 • Longtime Homeowners Assistance-$42,500 • Telephone Efficiencies—($400,000) ORANGE COUNTY 14 NORTH CAROLINA 2 3 4 Slide#1S 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 15 ORANGE HOUNCAATY 5 6 7 9 1 Slide#16 FY 2026-27 Operating Budget Introduction • Property Tax Rate - Residual/Net Genera!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 ORANGE COUNTY 16 NORTH CAROLINA 2 3 4 Slide#17 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 86.79 86.79 86.34 64.30 85.80 8580 8580 85.80 6580 8377 65.04 83.12 83.58 81.87 80 57.58 83.83 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 2018 FY 2019 FY 2020 FY 2021 FY 2022 FY 2023 FY 2024 FY 2025 FY 2026 FY 2027 R- 5 6 7 10 1 Slide#18 FY 2026-27 Operating Budget Introduction - Visitors Bureau Fund • Visitors Bureau operating expense reduction-($324,692) • Arts Commission net increase-$44,641 - Solid Waste Fund • Solid Waste Program Fee increase from$138 to$142 per parcel-$280,000 • Department to review additional options for long term sustainability - Fire Districts • Damascus Fire 1.30 cents • Eno Fire 2.00 cents • Little River Fire 1.00 cents • South Triangle Fire 1.30 cents ORA aNOR-171-1 cP.OUNTY 2 3 4 Slide#19 Budget Consideration Schedule Budget May 12 Budget Public Hearing—Whitted 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 May 28 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 ,s ORo.NGE�COUNATY 5 6 7 11 I Slide#20 Questions? 3 4 3. Public Comments 5 Chair Hamilton read the public charge. 6 7 A motion was made by Vice-Chair Fowler, seconded by Commissioner McKee, to open the public 8 hearing on the budget and capital investment plan. 9 10 VOTE: UNANIMOUS 11 12 PUBLIC COMMENTS: 13 J vonn Bever-Green encouraged the Board to preserve funding for the Chapel Hill Public Library. 14 She said it is important to be able to tell what is true and real, and to resource this priority. 15 Tracey Holsinger said cuts to the Department on Aging are affecting one of the least resourced 16 populations in the county. She said losing a social worker will affect older adults' ability to access food, 17 medications, and housing. She said the loss of evening hours will affect older adults who must work or 18 depend on family for transportation. She said the increase in fees will disproportionately affect older 19 adults. 20 Sheila Evans spoke on the importance of the senior centers in her life. She said that everyone 21 ages, and they can't do it alone. She said older adults need help just as children do. She asked the Board 22 to keep the senior centers well-funded. 23 Jackie Podger said balance in the budget is important. She noted that the budget allocates almost 24 half towards education, and every other need must compete for the remaining 50%. She said that the 25 older adult population is growing, and the school age population is declining. She said the budget should 26 reflect that priority. She said a budget is a statement of values. 27 Rachel Hawkins of the Friends of the Passmore Center introduced Alicia Reed, who works at the 28 Hillsborough senior center. Rachel Hawkins read the following statement: 29 "1 am asking that you reconsider asking our seniors to be tasked with paying More for programs to come 30 up with an additional 20,000. And to reconsider the sharing of a social worker for more than one location 31 and to act as a receptionist at other times. 32 Recently, it was stated that some commissioners stated that only Rich People attend the CENTERS! Have 33 you stood in line with a diverse senior population waiting to get a meal? You provide bus service for the 34 individuals who cannot afford gas to get a meal as they can't afford to buy groceries to accommodate 35 their needs. Some can age in place, rather than use Medicaid for nursing homes (saving the COUNTY$$) 12 1 When I visit the Centers, I see people interacting with others of all diverse populations. Some attend each 2 day to overcome isolation at home, and the need for a healthy place as economics hinder activities for 3 them otherwise. 4 Orange County is BLESSED to have a CARING staff at both Sr Centers,who look out for the best interest of 5 the aged 55—100+.Also,you invested in a State-of-the-Art facility and they both are bursting at the seams 6 for more space due to the increased number of 55+in our County.And that exceeds our youth in numbers. 7 AND to cut staff is ludicrous, as the demands from the staff are increasing due to the number of 8 participants. 9 One idea is to charge Sr Ctr members who are Not Orange County residents a fee — however is feasible, 10 as many people live in other counties and use Orange County SR Ctrs. Maybe that would incur some of 11 the $20 K you want to find. Currently out of county members of the Centers pay nothing to join, and can 12 participate in all but "toe nail care", meals, and Sportsplex membership rate. 13 Some items in the overall budget may NOT need immediate FIXING in 2026-2027—so I urge you to look 14 more into the NEEDS of this county as they relate to the welfare of its citizens, older and younger, rather 15 than being in a rush for extras for county offices and vehicles. Yes our county can wait until just MAYBE 16 next year's economy will warrant wants." 17 William McLean is a member of the Friends of Orange County Public Library. He spoke about how 18 reductions in funding for the library would impact residents. He said in difficult economic times, library 19 use goes up, not down. He spoke about the impact of library services on his family during the pandemic, 20 and how his family later worked with the library to raise funds for neurodivergent children. He said the 21 library's deepest value isn't represented by numbers on a spreadsheet, but its human value in the people 22 it serves and the community it builds. 23 Om Dessai said he is an Bch grader at Smith Middle. He praised the experiences he's had in CHCCS 24 schools. He said well-funded schools provide a better learning experience. He said at his school,teachers 25 support and encourage students. He said funding is needed for school technology, classroom supplies, 26 mental health support, electives, clubs, and activities that help students feel included and connected. He 27 said strong public schools give every student a chance to succeed. 28 Lynn Carswell said she is a member of Orange County Public Schools Strong. She supported fully 29 funding the continuation budget request. She said the submitted amendments show that the needs of 30 teachers and schools were heard. She asked the Board to continue seeking greater efficiencies in 31 administrative costs, fair property assessments, and reasonable tax hikes to support the schools in the 32 community. 33 Lisa Perry thanked the Board for listening to the public and submitting amendments to fully fund 34 the continuation budget. She expressed sympathy for the financial difficulties facing the county. She 35 asked that the Board fund capital improvements to school facilities. She said children cannot thrive in 36 buildings that are neglected, overcrowded, or falling apart. She echoed the earlier comment asking the 37 Board to minimize tax increases while protecting high quality education in the county. 38 Zora and Ellie represented the perspectives of children in the school systems. Ellie said that 39 teachers are concerned about the unmet needs of children who need additional assistance and 40 instruction. Ellie said some of her teachers must drive an hour to work each day because they can't afford 41 to live inside the district,and they must work multiple jobs to provide for their families.Zora echoed Ellie's 42 remarks about teachers working multiple jobs, and said her favorite teacher was working three jobs to 43 make ends meet. Both speakers requested that the Board increase funding for schools. 44 Spring Dawson McClure said that people were at the meeting to advocate for a community where 45 everyone has the basics to be healthy and happy. She said that schools are underfunded by the General 46 Assembly, and teachers and staff deserve much more than what is in the schools' expansion budget 47 requests. She said there is a link between teachers' well-being and student outcomes. She expressed 13 1 thanks for the submitted amendments to fully fund the continuation budget. She asked the Board to 2 reconsider capital improvements and if they meet a critical need in the community. 3 Jennifer Bremer asked the Board to reconsider cuts to the library. She spoke of the importance of 4 the Chapel Hill Public Library in creating community conversations. She said the county should look for 5 ways to strengthen unifying resources such as the Chapel Hill Public Library. 6 Gail Edwards spoke on the importance of the senior centers in Orange County. She noted the 7 large percentage of the population that is older adults, and the share of the population 0-17 years of age 8 is decreasing. She expressed concerns about inequities in funding,and asked that the Board consider how 9 to lessen impacts on the senior population. 10 Judy McCord said after pandemic lockdowns, she was able to connect with folks at the Seymour 11 Center to feel alive again, and to volunteer and make a difference in the community. She said the 12 Department on Aging staff provide support for volunteers, and reductions mean staff will have to redirect 13 their time away from those programs and services. She asked the Board to find a way to restore positions 14 at the Department on Aging. 15 Bob Ward spoke in support of the Chapel Hill Orange County Visitors Bureau. He said previously 16 served on the bureau's board and that they do a wonderful job. He said he now volunteers at the Carolina 17 basketball museum,where they get 35,000 to 40,000 visitors a year. He described how visitors contribute 18 to the economy of the community. He said he and his wife are supporters of the library and spoke on the 19 importance of funding library services. 20 Karen Curtin is the President of the Friends of the Chapel Hill Public Library. She said the actual 21 Chapel Hill Public Library budget is$4.3 million, not$4.9 million. She said the reduction of Orange County 22 funds for the library would have a major impact on its operating budget. She said it would reduce services 23 to the 40%of Orange County residents that live in Chapel Hill and the 15,000 library users who live outside 24 of Chapel Hill. She said that the reason given for the funding cut is the new branch library in Carrboro, 25 but that location has not reduced the usage of the Chapel Hill Public Library. She said when the southern 26 branch was approved, residents were not told that the tradeoff would be funding elimination for the 27 Chapel Hill Public Library. She said no one wants library services cut and that non-Chapel Hill residents 28 don't consider the southern branch library a substitute and shouldn't have to pay a fee or lose access. 29 She said she hoped the Board was listening to the public comments. 30 Marjory Moe is the Vice-President of the Friends of the Chapel Hill Public Library. She is a retired 31 librarian. She told a story from the Ashanti people of Ghana of a chief who would give his daughter's hand 32 in marriage to the man who could bring her a magic fairy. The story was a metaphor for choosing which 33 library is most deserving of funds. She said all three libraries are worthy because they serve all the citizens 34 of Orange County. 35 Christiana Williams asked the Board not to cut funding to the Chapel Hill Public Library. She spoke 36 of the strengths of the Chapel Hill Public Library and its importance in the community. She said that 37 residents were not informed that the opening of the Drakeford Library would result in the reduction of 38 the Chapel Hill Public Library. She said a fee to access the library would fall hardest on residents who are 39 least able to absorb another fee into their lives. 40 Gregg Gerdau read the following statement: 41 "Good evening. My name is Gregg Gerdau. I live in Orange County and many of you know me from my 42 partnership with youth sports facilities. Tonight I'm here to speak against cuts to senior wellness 43 programming, specifically the programs delivered through the Seymour and Passmore Centers. 44 1 want to ground this in language the county has already committed to publicly.The Orange County Health 45 Department's stated mission is to promote and protect health, enhance quality of life, and preserve the 46 environment for everyone in Orange County. Everyone.That word does not have an age limit. 47 The two nonprofit organizations this county has partnered with to support its senior centers exist for the 48 same reason.The Friends of the Robert and Pearl Seymour Center exists to promote the well-being of all 14 1 persons age 55 and older in Orange County.The Friends of the Jerry M. Passmore Center exists to promote 2 the wellbeing of older adults through supplemental support for those same programs. These are not 3 advocacy positions.These are the organizations' own stated purposes. 4 When the county reduces funding for senior wellness programs, it is not just cutting a budget line. It is 5 acting in direct contradiction to what its own health department says it stands for, and it is undermining 6 the work of two nonprofit partners that exist specifically to support these programs. 7 I'd also ask the Board to think about what the research tells us about senior wellness programs. Physical 8 and social engagement for older adults reduces hospitalizations, delays cognitive decline, and keeps 9 people living independently longer. Every dollar cut here has a downstream cost greater than financial. 10 The question isn't whether we can afford these programs. It's whether we can afford to lose them. 11 The seniors who use the Seymour and Passmore Centers are not edge cases.They are the population the 12 Orange County Health Department exists to serve. Cutting their programs is not a fiscal decision. It is a 13 values decision. And tonight I'm asking this Board to make a values decision that matches what Orange 14 County says it stands for. 15 Thank you." 16 Allison Mahaley spoke in support of continuation funding for public schools. She expressed 17 appreciation to the commissioners who filed amendments to try to keep the tax rate increase low. She 18 described how difficult it was as a public school employee to afford to live in Orange County. She said 19 that the state limits the county's ability to govern, and the federal government has failed to fund basic 20 services. She said the county is in a difficult spot, but she hopes that the Board will pass a budget that 21 includes robust funding for schools, but does not let the tax burden fall on those that will be most affected 22 by it. 23 Laura Horrigan read a statement on behalf of two school social workers at East Chapel Hill High 24 School. The statement described the role of social workers in schools and their support for students and 25 their families. The statement ended by thanking the Board for supporting schools. 26 Ella Horrigan is a freshman at East Chapel Hill High School. She described the high-quality 27 education and experiences she's received through CHCCS. She also spoke on the importance of mental 28 health professionals in the school system and how they assisted a friend who was in a crisis. 29 William Lerner is a 9t" grade student at Carrboro High School. He said he excelled academically 30 until he was diagnosed with a severe medical condition. He said student services helped him rebuild his 31 life and regain the ability to read, write, and participate in school again. He said student services are the 32 safety nets keeping vulnerable students afloat. He asked that the Board protect the budget for these 33 positions. 34 Tim Williams spoke on the importance of the library in the community. He said libraries are one 35 of the ways we communicate values to children. He appreciated the difficult budget situation but said 36 that the library was not the place to cut. 37 Carmen Eliot spoke on the importance of funding the Chapel Hill Public Library. She described the 38 information,art, and history she discovered through her library experiences. She said that the Chapel Hill 39 Public Library serves between 1,200 and 1,800 people a day. She asked that the Board protect funding 40 for the library. 41 Latarndra Strong said she was happy to see people engaged in the civic process. She said 42 commissioners can do two things, raise taxes, or cut budgets. She asked the Board to make reductions 43 rather than increase taxes. She said everyone must be willing to sacrifice something to keep Medicaid 44 and food and nutrition services for the community. She said if the county doesn't fund social services,the 45 community will suffer. She said she supports libraries and senior centers, but that the county must 46 consider what it is willing to sacrifice. She thanked Commissioners McKee, Portie-Ascott, and Hamilton 47 for their proposed amendments to the budget. 15 1 Sandra Theard asked the Board to remember vulnerable populations in the community. She said 2 the Board's decisions will affect people's ability to survive. She hoped that the Board will make the best 3 choices for the community. 4 James Merritt said he supported the full funding of the Orange County Visitors Center. He is a co- 5 chair of the committee for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. He described the support of the visitors' 6 center for his group. He described how visitors positively impact the economy of the county. 7 Amy Rosenthal read the following statement: 8 "1 have been a Chapel Hill resident and taxpayer for 28 years. I love libraries. But our Chapel Hill library 9 has an antisemitism problem. 10 There are books in our library that erase Jews and Jewish history. They promote false, demonizing 11 narratives against Jews and Israel. The collection for adults is bad enough, but the books targeting children 12 are even worse. 13 This is not a "both sides" issue. Lies and propaganda are not equal to truth.The Jewish community knows 14 how easily lies turn into hate. And hate into violence. It's already happening. 15 When some of us raised this issue, library staff kindly agreed to meet. We expressed our concerns. They 16 told us to complete a form. We completed several. It went nowhere. 17 Librarians are nice people who cannot be expected to be experts in everything. I would not expect them 18 to understand the relentless and pervasive campaign of antisemitism that is often presented in a subtle 19 way or via lies of omission. They may not be aware that those intent on the erasure of Jews and Jewish 20 history have attained positions of power so that books that fit their false and demonizing narratives 21 against Jews are given special awards. If library staff chooses books based on these awards and 22 recommendations, they are being misled. I do understand that there is a demand for materials that 23 demonize Jews, but should paid staff be party to such a demand? 24 Why should the board continue to provide funding to a library that is promoting antisemitism?This is not 25 the inclusion I would expect from such a significant public institution. Importantly, are there other 26 instances of the library misusing public funds? Until these issues are addressed, the board is right to 27 restrict or eliminate financial support. 28 Thank you for taking this problem seriously." 29 Josh Ravitch read the following statement: 30 "Good evening, Commissioners. 31 Sure,the CH Library honored Jewish American Heritage Month. 32 Belatedly, starting the weekend of May 15, the month half over, UNC graduated and library empty, 33 attention turned elsewhere. They knew May was Jewish American Heritage Month long before. I know 34 because I alerted them. 35 Sadly, I must alert you that it now appears library leadership are playing additional games that hide and 36 minimize the impact of Jewish American Heritage Month. 37 Photos that our group obtained show the initial display from May 15, when the JA display is adjacent to 38 the Asian display,facing library patrons walking by [these were handed to the Board by the Deputy Clerk 39 during Mr. Ravitch's statement].Additional photos were obtained during the May 22nd holiday weekend, 40 and demonstrate that the Asian display is still facing patrons walking by. However the JA display has been 41 rotated so that it's facing away from patron attention and walking paths, and is next to a display of"Staff 42 Picks." One has to be looking for the display to see it. Note too that the Asian display has appropriately 43 been up the whole month, as these displays typically are. 44 1 don't cry "antisemitism" as a habit...but the pattern here is troubling. Is library leadership counting on 45 community pressure to get the$600K being discussed,while also covering for seeming antipathy towards 46 the Jewish people? 47 1 also note that CH seems to believe that throwing money at all budget shortfalls is the only way to address 48 the issues. I see the library as a town and county asset that used to collect fines for overdue books. Do I 16 1 believe this involved enormous budget-changing sums? No...But this helped convey the attitude that 2 borrowers of books had some responsibility for upkeep of our library, and that raising taxes to provide 3 funds is not the only option to consider. 4 Thank you for your consideration..." 5 Shereese Alston asked the Board not to raise taxes as it impacts people who have the least. 6 The Tanner Family spoke on the importance of funding public schools and how investing in 7 education leads to positive outcomes in the future. Ms.Tanner described how the long-term impacts will 8 improve Orange County. 9 Richard Ellington is a lifelong resident of Orange County. He described the support the Chapel Hill 10 Public Library gave to the Chapel Hill Historical Society. He said that libraries are important to the 11 community. He described his disappointment in the Drakeford Library and asked that funds be redirected 12 to the Chapel Hill Public Library. He also spoke in support of the Orange County Visitors Bureau and the 13 efforts of the bureau to build relationships for the county. 14 Emily Hannon is a pediatrician. She spoke about the importance of a school social worker in 15 helping children succeed in school. She said if school social workers are reduced, their important work 16 will fall to teachers. 17 Michael Crowell said he is a Carrboro resident and he spoke in support of the Chapel Hill Public 18 Library. He said that the Carrboro branch library did not reduce usage of the Chapel Hill Public Library. 19 He said when the branch was built,there was no suggestion that the county would eliminate support for 20 the Chapel Hill Public Library. He criticized the decision-making process, and said that there should have 21 been an open, deliberative process that involved all affected people. He asked the Board to support the 22 Chapel Hill Public Library. 23 Carl King expressed support for the hard work that the Board is doing. He said that he learned a 24 lot about the burdens and worries in the community, and he thanked everyone for sharing their 25 comments. He recognized that everyone will be helped and hurt by the budget. He said he has concerns 26 about schools, the library, and social services. He reminded everyone to be kind to each other and to 27 remember that everyone is carrying burdens, so we should shoulder them together. 28 Ina Stern said that Carl King as well as many others expressed her thoughts and concerns. She 29 expressed concern about cuts to the senior centers. She said that the percentage of the population that 30 is over the age of 60 is going to continue to grow, but that the Department on Aging receives less than 1 31 percent of the county's budget. She said that the Department on Aging is a model for other counties in 32 the state. She said that seniors want to stay in the community and contribute and she asked the Board to 33 reconsider the cuts. 34 Charlotte Holmes spoke in support of increases to the Longtime Homeowners Assistance 35 program. She said a lot of elderly residents in the county are struggling. She wanted the county's 36 investment in property revaluation consultants to lead to meaningful action and change. She said that 37 higher value properties should be taxed fairly. She said the Board's work on property tax justice will help 38 schools, libraries, and vulnerable residents. 39 Laura Raffield expressed support for increased taxes to support schools, libraries, and senior 40 services, while providing assistance to those who can't afford to pay property taxes. 41 Brian Driska said the CHCCS district is a draw for young families. He said that families in the district 42 recently learned that some of the schools may be closed. He said residents have borne the effect of 43 increased property taxes through increased mortgage costs and increased rents,which make it harder on 44 families. He said the current federal government and state legislature are intent in leaving the public 45 school system to fend for itself. He said if schools are not funded, the economics of Orange County will 46 result in families leaving. He asked the Board to fully fund the continuation budget and the pay-go capital 47 funding. 17 1 Brian Link asked the Board to support the public schools. He described how CHCCS made many 2 millions of dollars in cuts and is planning to close a school. He encouraged the Board to pass the proposed 3 amendments and make the community a wonderful place. 4 Kaia Findlay spoke in support of the Chapel Hill Public Library. She described how the library 5 contributes to her professional and personal lives. She said it has been helpful to hear the stories and see 6 the faces of those who will be affected by the costs of these decisions. 7 H'tera Ktul spoke in support of the Chapel Hill Public Library. She said cuts to the library would 8 be a cowardly act. She said the library provides an important place for people to live and thrive. She said 9 it was good to hear from so many residents. 10 Dave Gephart spoke in favor of the Orange County Visitors Bureau. He described the various ways 11 the Visitors Bureau contributes to the economy of the county and asked the Board to reconsider cuts. He 12 said it is important to strengthen economic development and the Visitors Bureau. 13 Lou Capitanio suggested privatizing Orange County Solid Waste to solve some of the county's 14 problems. 15 Lyndi Schilling spoke in support of the Chapel Hill Public Library. She made suggestions for ways 16 that the Chapel Hill Public Library and Drakeford Library could work together to both succeed. 17 Akshay Pendyal asked the Board to fully fund the continuation budget and the pay-go contribution 18 for capital needs at the schools. He described how CHCCS already made budget cuts and that further cuts 19 would be difficult. He said that deliberately foregoing a property tax increase is shortsighted because 20 schools are not entitlements. He pointed out that children who lost their homes during Tropical Storm 21 Chantal received assistance with food and shelter from school social workers. He said that children are 22 assured two meals each day from school cafeterias when they otherwise might go without. He said that 23 schools support entire ecosystems. He explained how important the pay-go funding is for school capital 24 and urged the Board not to cut it. 25 Andal Narayanan spoke in support of the Chapel Hill Public Library. He described the impact the 26 library has had in his life,and how proud he is to live in a town with a facility like that. He shared a message 27 from a friend who could not be present, Alex Haswell, who also felt strongly that the library should be 28 fully funded. 29 Thomas Jepsen from the Chapel Hill Historical Society spoke in favor of funding for the Orange 30 County Visitors Bureau. He agreed with earlier comments regarding the support from the visitor's bureau 31 for the veteran's memorial. He said through a partnership, the Chapel Hill Historical Society created 32 walking tours of downtown and helped document the history of downtown Chapel Hill. He said this kind 33 of partnership important for creating economic growth and development. He said money spent on 34 publicity is investing in the future. He said it can help plant seeds for future development and grow the 35 economy. 36 Maria Palmer spoke in support of the senior center, library, housing assistance, and funding for 37 home repairs. She said that the Board should solve the problem of properties not being taxed at the value 38 they sold at. She said cuts will cost more than they will save the county. She said without social workers, 39 children will not have the support they need in school. She said when people can go to the library,it helps 40 them. She said it's an investment in the community to fully fund schools. 41 Kimberly Sanchez with Community Home Trust thanked the Board for their continued 42 partnership. She described the creation of the CHT and the accomplishments the organization has 43 recently made. She said they are advocating for an increase in operating support for the organization and 44 that expenses have increased while funding remained flat. She said that an increase in support protects 45 permanent affordable housing, preserving public investment, and ensuring members of Orange County 46 continue to have access to affordable homeownership opportunities 47 Kari Hamel asked the Board in the next three years to review the structural deficit in Orange 48 County Schools supplements,that is expected to grow and is below market rate for all adjoining counties. 18 1 She asked for the Board to speak to other counties with more than one public school system for advice. 2 She expressed concern about the actions the Board might take that have a negative effect on enrollment. 3 4 A motion was made by Commissioner McKee, seconded by Vice-Chair Fowler, to close the public 5 hearing on the budget and capital investment plan. 6 7 VOTE: UNANIMOUS 8 9 The budget public hearing portion of the meeting ended, and the Board recessed for a 5-minute 10 break. 11 12 The meeting was reconvened at 9:41 pm, and the Board transitioned to a work session. 13 14 4. Board of Social Services—Appointment Discussion 15 The Board discussed an appointment to the Board of Social Services. 16 17 BACKGROUND: The Board of Social Services is charged with selecting the Director of Social Services and 18 advising the County and municipalities on ways to improve the social conditions of the community. It also 19 consults with the Director of Social Services to solve problems and to plan the budget. 20 21 The Board of County Commissioners appoints one (1) Orange County resident and one (1) County 22 Commissioner to this Board. 23 24 The following individual is recommended for Board consideration: 25 NAME POSITION DESCRIPTION TYPE OF EXPIRATION APPOINTMENT TERM DATE Patricia BOCC Citizen Appointee First Full Term 06/30/2029 Garavaglia 26 27 If the individuals listed above are appointed, no vacancies remain. 28 29 Tara May introduced the item. 30 The Board agreed by consensus to appoint the recommended applicant. 31 32 S. Chapel Hill—Orange County Visitors Bureau Advisory Board—Appointment Discussion 33 The Board discussed an appointment to the Chapel Hill—Orange County Visitors Bureau Advisory Board. 34 35 BACKGROUND:The Chapel Hill-Orange County Visitors Bureau Advisory Board is charged with developing 36 and coordinating visitor services in Orange County. It also implements marketing programs that enhance 37 the economic activity and quality of life in the community. 38 39 The Board of County Commissioners appoints all seventeen (17) members, with representatives from 40 specific entities and fields. 41 42 The following individuals are recommended for Board consideration: 43 19 NAME POSITION DESCRIPTION TYPE OF EXPIRATION APPOINTMENT TERM DATE Francesca Talenti Orange County Arts Partial Term 12/31/2026 Commission Jon Hartman- Economic Development Third Full Term 06/30/2029 Brown Staff-Town of Carrboro (Ex Officio) 1 2 NOTE:There are no other applicants eligible for these positions. 3 4 If the individuals listed above are appointed,the following vacancy remains: 5 POSITION EXPIRATION DATE VACANCY INFORMATION DESIGNATION Chapel Hill 06/30/2026 Vacant since 05/07/2025 Downtown Partnership Staff(Ex Officio) 6 7 NOTE: There are no applicants eligible for this vacancy. 8 9 Tara May introduced the item. 10 The Board agreed by consensus to appoint the recommended applicants. 11 12 6. Orange County Broadband Task Force—Appointment Discussion 13 The Board discussed an appointment to the Orange County Broadband Task Force. 14 15 BACKGROUND:The Orange County Broadband Task Force is charged to: 16 1. Discuss broadband solutions that will improve the quality of high-speed internet services to 17 Orange County residents, and 18 2. Recommend a plan to the Board of Orange County Commissioners to expand reliable high-speed 19 internet services to all county residents and businesses. 20 3. Update and track broadband coverage needs as State and Federal program awards are made. 21 4. Consult with County staff on how to best communicate information related to broadband 22 coverage to other residents. 23 24 The Board of County Commissioners appoints five (5) Orange County residents to At-Large positions. 25 26 The following position is presented for Board consideration: 27 NAME POSITION DESCRIPTION TYPE OF EXPIRATION APPOINTMENT TERM DATE Orange County At-Large First Full Term 09/30/2028 Resident 28 29 Tara May introduced the item. She said that Commissioners Greene and McKee indicated that 30 the work of the Broadband Task Force was almost done and that they may not need to fill the vacancy. 20 1 Commissioner McKee said that was correct. 2 3 Adjournment 4 5 A motion was made by Commissioner McKee, seconded by Commissioner Carter, to adjourn the 6 meeting at 9:42 p.m. 7 8 VOTE: UNANIMOUS 9 10 11 Jean Hamilton, Chair 12 13 14 Recorded by Laura Jensen, Clerk to the Board 15 16 Submitted for approval by Laura Jensen, Clerk to the Board Attachment 2 1 1 DRAFT MINUTES 2 ORANGE COUNTY 3 BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS 4 BUSINESS MEETING 5 June 2, 2026 6 7:00 p.m. 7 8 The Orange County Board of Commissioners met for a Business Meeting on Tuesday,June 2, 2026, at 7:00 9 p.m. at the Whitted Human Services Building in Hillsborough, NC. 10 11 COUNTY COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Chair Jean Hamilton, Vice-Chair Amy Fowler, and Commissioners 12 Jamezetta Bedford, Marilyn Carter, Sally Greene, Earl McKee, and Phyllis Portie-Ascott 13 COUNTY COMMISSIONERS ABSENT: None. 14 COUNTY ATTORNEYS PRESENT: Staff Attorney James Bryan 15 COUNTY STAFF PRESENT: County Manager Travis Myren, Deputy County Manager Caitlin Fenhagen, and 16 Clerk to the Board Laura Jensen (All other staff members will be identified appropriately below.) 17 18 Chair Hamilton called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. All commissioners were present. 19 20 Chair Hamilton called on Steve Brantley, Economic Development Director, to recognize 21 representatives from Morinaga America Foods. 22 Steve Brantley noted that Moringa was the first company to locate in the Buckhorn Economic 23 Development District, connecting to the Article 46-funded sewer line approximately ten years ago, and 24 that the company plans to eventually employ 400 people in Orange County. 25 Shimpei Ishizaka, Morinaga CFO, expressed deep appreciation for the county's ongoing support. 26 He noted that the company is currently constructing a second factory, which is expected to begin 27 operations within the year. He referenced the ribbon-cutting ceremony held in April, at which Chair 28 Hamilton and other Orange County members were present, and described the dramatic growth of the 29 business in the United States, crediting Orange County's support and incentive programs as essential to 30 that growth. As a gesture of appreciation and to symbolize the relationship between Orange County and 31 Moringa, Mr. Ishizaka presented the Board with an Imari candy pot — a piece of traditional pottery from 32 Imari,Japan,the birthplace of Moringa Japan's founder,Taichiro Moringa. 33 Chair Hamilton thanked Shimpei Ishizaka and Morinaga for investing and operating their business 34 in Orange County. 35 36 1.Additions or Changes to the Agenda 37 There were no changes to the agenda. 38 39 Chair Hamilton read the public charge and reviewed the instructions for making public comment. 40 She noted that comments on printed agenda items would be taken when those specific matters come 41 before the board. 42 43 2. Public Comments(Limited to One Hour) 44 a. Matters not on the Printed Agenda 45 Ada Watson, a junior at Chapel Hill High School and member of the Tobacco 21 Youth Council, 46 addressed the Board regarding a piece of legislation known as Sully's Law, named after a 15-year-old from 47 Eastern North Carolina who died from complications related to vaping and popcorn lung. She explained 48 that she became involved with the issue through a public health class field trip to gas stations and vape 2 1 shops, where she learned about predatory advertising directed at youth. She described Sully's Law as a 2 bill introduced in March of the prior year that enjoys bipartisan support but is currently stuck in the Rules 3 Committee. She noted that the goal of the North Carolina T-21 Coalition is to move the bill to the Health 4 Committee,which they believe will be more receptive.Ada Watson said she has met with Representative 5 Buansi and Senator Garson, both of whom expressed strong support. She outlined key provisions of the 6 bill: raising the tobacco purchase age in North Carolina to 21 to match federal law and establishing a retail 7 permitting system to enforce compliance. She argued that most vaping products currently in local stores 8 are not legal and that enforcement is essentially nonexistent without a permitting system. She further 9 noted that raising the age to 21 is important because high school freshmen have 18-year-old friends, but 10 middle schoolers do not typically have connections to 21-year-olds.She stated that North Carolina may be 11 among the last states to match the federal age, noting the number of non-compliant states has dropped 12 from eleven to seven. Ada Watson distributed copies of a draft resolution, a one-page overview, and a list 13 of 163 endorsers, including the Orange County Board of Health.She asked the Board to consider endorsing 14 the measure. 15 Denise Duffy, Chair of the Arts Commission Advisory Board, was joined by Vice-Chair Francesca 16 Talenti and other members of the Arts Alliance and Advisory Board to urge the Board to protect Arts 17 Commission funding amid the proposed amendments to the Visitors Bureau fund. She described the Arts 18 Commission as a lean, scrappy organization operating like a nonprofit,with three full-time employees and 19 a $40,000 operating budget. She noted that the Commission manages the self-sustaining Eno Arts Mill, 20 which serves thousands of residents annually, including summer campers, 80% of whom receive 21 scholarships. She emphasized that the Arts Commission serves as the primary arts funder for the county 22 and generates nearly$3 million in annual economic impact from nonprofit arts activity in Orange County. 23 She argued that in difficult economic times, people seek affordable and meaningful experiences closer to 24 home,and that the arts provide exactly that. Denise Duffy noted that in FY 2027,the Commission plans to 25 expand programming through an events contractor position, including music, dance, and theater at the 26 Eno Arts Mill and a potential new festival partnership at Blackwood Farm Park, and that the Commission 27 is exploring ways to generate additional county revenue through event concessions. She stated that none 28 of this growth is possible without the events team manager position. She closed by asking the Board to 29 view the Arts Commission as an investment, noting that for every dollar invested, sixteen dollars are 30 generated back to the local economy. 31 Julia Workman, a resident of Hillsborough, expressed support for the Arts Commission. She cited 32 a figure she had recently learned, which is that arts patrons spend ten times more than sports patrons. 33 She argued that this demonstrates that the arts are an economic driver and are essential, not a luxury.She 34 noted the trickle-down effect of any cuts to the Arts Commission, citing the Hillsborough Arts Council as 35 an example of an organization that relies on Arts Commission grants to pay local artists directly. She 36 acknowledged the Board's difficult fiscal position but urged them to recognize the essential nature of arts 37 funding. 38 William Madden thanked commissioners for the time they devote to public service. He spoke in 39 his own personal capacity and reminded the Board that approximately a year prior he had emailed them 40 about Opportunity South Carolina,a self-described nonprofit. He noted that in April of this year,two front- 41 page articles in the News and Observer addressed the related issue of nonprofits reducing local tax 42 revenues, with one article by reporter Tammy Grub. He read from the article, which reported that the 43 loophole affected five Orange County properties valued at $56.6 million, creating a $742,844 loss in 44 property tax revenues, with four more properties seeking exemptions that could total approximately $1 45 million in annual revenue loss. He stated that Carrboro was the most significantly affected town,followed 46 by Chapel Hill and Hillsborough, and that the Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools are also losing significant 47 public dollars. He expressed frustration that he believed his email had been the first alert the Board 48 received on this matter. He urged the Board to be more attentive to recorded documents. 3 1 b. Matters on the Printed Agenda 2 These matters will be considered when the Board addresses that item on the agenda below. 3 4 3.Announcements, Petitions, and Comments by Board Members 5 Chair Hamilton expressed gratitude to all community members who participated in budget public 6 hearings and submitted emails, letters, or phone calls. She apologized to anyone who did not get a 7 response from her or the Community Relations Director, explaining that the volume of communication 8 during the budget season had been difficult to keep pace with, but that all communications were being 9 read and considered. She noted the upcoming work session on Thursday, at which the Board would work 10 through budget amendments. She said there are more amendments this year than she has seen since her 11 election in 2020, and possibly the most in any period during her tenure. She acknowledged that some 12 commissioners collaborated on amendments, while others worked independently, and that, as a result, 13 there are unintended consequences and overlaps. She assured the public that the Board is aware of this 14 and will carefully work through all staff and commissioner amendments to set the property tax rate and 15 fire district tax rates. Chair Hamilton also announced that a half-day retreat on the 2050 Land Use Plan has 16 been scheduled for June 27th at 8:30 am. She drew attention to June 5th as National Gun Violence 17 Awareness Day, noting she would be attending a rally at Peace and Justice Plaza in Chapel Hill alongside 18 other elected officials from Carrboro, Chapel Hill, and Hillsborough, and urged residents to wear orange 19 to increase awareness of gun safety and remember those injured or killed by gun violence. She noted the 20 Board has a proclamation on consent tonight recognizing that cause. She also noted the proclamation 21 declaring June 6th as Trails Day, aligned with National Trails Day as designated by the American Hiking 22 Society, and encouraged everyone to enjoy Orange County's trails. 23 Commissioner Carter joined the Chair in expressing gratitude to community members for their 24 feedback on the budget, acknowledging she had some catching up to do on emails. She described 25 attending two Memorial Day events: the first hosted by Orange County at the Veterans Memorial at the 26 Southern Human Services Center, at which Chair Hamilton spoke, and Purple Heart recipients and Gold 27 Star families were honored.The second was hosted by the peace and justice community and was intended 28 to honor both service members and all those impacted by war, including innocent civilians.She noted that 29 at the second event, a Proclamation of Peace was issued referencing a joint resolution of Congress from 30 1950 that called for Memorial Day to be dedicated to prayer and permanent peace. Commissioner Carter 31 used this context to reflect on the moral weight of budget decisions before the Board, acknowledging the 32 sacrifice of those who defended democracy while also recognizing that innocent people continue to be 33 victims of war and that aggressors bear a moral burden for those losses. 34 Commissioner Greene thanked everyone for their engagement in the budget process, reiterating 35 that the Board reads, considers, and appreciates all comments, and that they will weigh everything as 36 carefully as possible on Thursday. 37 Commissioner Portie-Ascott also thanked community engagement in the budget process. She 38 thanked county staff and particularly the County Manager and his team for leading the Board through an 39 extremely difficult budget season. She mentioned attending a Durham City Council meeting the prior 40 evening, where property managers were advocating for Durham to create an eviction diversion program 41 modeled on Orange County's program. She expressed her commitment to connecting Durham with the 42 County Manager as they develop their formal proposal and credited the county's housing staff and the 43 attorney's office for making that program a model worth emulating. She also noted her attendance at the 44 Orange County Veterans Memorial Day event, at which the keynote address was delivered by Secretary 45 Jocelyn Millett, a retired U.S. Air Force officer and current Secretary of the North Carolina Department of 46 Military and Veteran Affairs. 47 Vice-Chair Fowler said that the Board will deliberate over the budget on Thursday night. She 48 described the current budget year as particularly difficult, enumerating several fiscal pressures, including 4 1 inflationary pressure on the budget simply to maintain operations,federal cuts to SNAP benefits alongside 2 increased certification frequency creating a million-dollar burden on the county, and increased costs for 3 healthcare, retirement benefits, living wages,fuel, and services. She also addressed the issue of for-profit 4 companies partnering with nonprofits to avoid taxes through legal loopholes, reducing county revenue. 5 She acknowledged that community members have suggested addressing the commercial apartment 6 complex issue as a solution, and she expressed her support for that concept, while being candid that the 7 work will likely lead to glacial and small change. She nonetheless committed to pursuing that work 8 alongside her colleagues.Vice-Chair Fowler then outlined three budget amendments she plans to present 9 on Thursday, all focused on education: (1) a school CIP amendment to add $3 million to Pay-Go for school 10 capital projects and repairs,noting that prior boards had directed revenue to operations ratherthan facility 11 maintenance; (2) an amendment to increase school operations funding to allow both school districts to 12 meet their continuation budgets; and (3) an amendment to restore funding to the Chapel Hill Public 13 Library, which she described as reflecting strongly held community values. She acknowledged the 14 enormous volume of requests the Board has received and noted that by far the most passionate and 15 numerous pleas were to maintain library funding. She also referenced approximately $600,000 in staff 16 amendments that could mitigate proposed increases.She thanked the County Manager and staff for their 17 effort on the budget as well as her colleagues. 18 Commissioner Bedford highlighted upcoming Juneteenth celebrations. She noted that since 19 county offices would be closed on June 19th, the celebrations would take place on Friday,June 12th.The 20 first event,from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m.,would be held at the Hillsborough Farmers Market at the David Price 21 Pavilion near the courthouse, featuring Dr. Sonny Kelly. The second event, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. at the 22 Eno Arts Mill, would feature food, local artists, music, and family activities. Commissioner Bedford then 23 presented four petitions and requests in advance of the Thursday budget meeting. First, she introduced a 24 budget amendment to reduce some first-year CIP funding at Twin Creeks Park, given that not all results 25 with partners and fellow owners regarding the Greene Tract are complete and that school enrollment is 26 declining at the nearby Morris Grove Elementary School. She also requested that staff take time, after 27 completing the Tax Assessment Work Group,to do a fresh review of county-owned parcels to examine the 28 possibilities for affordable housing, particularly noting the importance of LIHTC credits. Second, prompted 29 by changes in Chapel Hill's funding for the Visitors Bureau, she asked the County Manager to explore 30 forming a work group or task force with towns and community members to conduct a real analysis of the 31 Visitors Bureau and consider whether improvements or structural changes should be made. Third, she 32 suggested that the incoming board (after the November elections) hold a work session to review the ILA 33 with Community Home Trust and the Trust's operations, noting that incoming commissioner Karen 34 Stegman would bring relevant expertise as a current board member. Fourth, and prompted by budget 35 amendment discussions about capital projects, she requested that the Board revisit the County Facilities 36 Plan at a future retreat, noting that five of the current commissioners had approved that plan and that 37 some are now reconsidering elements of it. She suggested that with two new board members coming in 38 December, it would be valuable to have an updated review with fresh context. 39 Commissioner McKee shared that he had recently represented the Board at a ribbon-cutting for 40 the agriculture education annex (Ag Barn) at Cedar Ridge, a long-awaited facility featuring stalls and 41 pasture areas. He acknowledged that navigating Orange County's regulations to bring the project to 42 fruition had been a trial and a tribulation. He then reflected on the impact of tax increases, noting that he 43 had reviewed 30 years of his own tax bills, having built his home in 1995 for $93,000 and having paid 44 $59,927 in property taxes over that period. He described last year's increase as resulting in a $417 jump 45 in his annual bill on a property that did not double in value. He expressed concern about characterizing 46 tax increases as "only a few dollars more" or "a dinner out," noting that for someone living entirely on 47 Social Security, his current bill of$2,944 would represent 12% of their annual income. He stated that he 48 had submitted multiple amendments aimed at pushing back or eliminating approximately $50 million of 5 1 borrowing over the next ten years, noting that this still represents a small fraction of the approximately$1 2 billion in cumulative borrowing projected over that period. 3 4 4. Proclamations/ Resolutions/Special Presentations 5 a. Juneteenth Freedom Day Proclamation 6 The Board approved a proclamation recognizing June 19, 2026 as Juneteenth Freedom Day in Orange 7 County. 8 9 BACKGROUND: On June 19, 1865 — more than two years after the signing of the Emancipation 10 Proclamation—U.S. Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston,Texas,to inform the last enslaved 11 African Americans that they were free. This day, now known as Juneteenth, marked a powerful moment 12 of delayed liberation and became a defining milestone in the struggle for Black freedom. The first 13 Juneteenth celebration was held in Texas in 1866, where communities gathered for prayer, food, music, 14 and dance. As Black families migrated from Texas to other parts of the country, they carried Juneteenth's 15 cultural and historical traditions with them. 16 17 In 2007, North Carolina adopted legislation that allowed Juneteenth National Freedom Day to become an 18 official state holiday once federally recognized. In 2020,Orange County and the Towns of Carrboro,Chapel 19 Hill, and Hillsborough affirmed Juneteenth as a local holiday. Today, Juneteenth is celebrated as a federal 20 holiday across all 50 states, recognized as a time of both jubilation and reflection. 21 22 Juneteenth not only honors freedom — it invites us to reckon with the ongoing legacy of slavery and the 23 long, unfinished journey toward justice. Historian Ira Berlin, in The Long Emancipation: The Demise of 24 Slavery in the United States, argues that emancipation was not a singular event, but "a near century 25 process" driven by the resistance, resilience, and determination of Black Americans. Freedom was not 26 granted—it was fought for.Through centuries of struggle, Black Americans have expanded the meaning of 27 citizenship and reshaped the promise of American democracy, redefining who is included in the phrase 28 "We the People" 29 30 This year, Orange County government will host a Juneteenth celebration on June 12, 2026. 31 32 Chair Hamilton introduced the item. 33 Commissioners read the following proclamation in turn: 34 35 ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS 36 PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING JUNETEENTH 2026 37 38 WHEREAS, Orange County has recognized Juneteenth as the moment when freedom finally reached all 39 enslaved African Americans, marked by the arrival of Union troops in Galveston, Texas more than two 40 years after the Emancipation Proclamation—reminding us of the strength of those who, even in bondage, 41 sowed the seeds of liberation and began reuniting their families in the aftermath of slavery; and 42 43 WHEREAS,the Orange County Board of Commissioners has reflected on Juneteenth as both a celebration 44 and a solemn reminder of the long struggle for true freedom—recognizing that the end of slavery did not 45 immediately bring justice, and that Black Americans have continuously led efforts to expand the meaning 46 of democracy and belonging for all; and 47 6 1 WHEREAS,the 2026 Juneteenth Celebration,themed "Juneteenth Brings Balance to America's Celebration 2 of Freedom,"connects to the America 250 celebrations going on across the nation this summer, reminding 3 us that honoring Juneteenth is honoring the true legacy of the American struggle freedom; and 4 5 WHEREAS, this year's events honor the service and sacrifices of Black people brought to this country 6 against their will and waited for America to fulfill the promises laid out in the Declaration of Independence 7 by including Black people; and 8 9 WHEREAS, we are reminded by the words of Barack Obama: "Juneteenth has never been a celebration of 10 victory or an acceptance of the way things are. It's a celebration of progress,"—a call to continuing fighting 11 forward as an act of ongoing liberation; and 12 13 WHEREAS,the June 12, 2026 Orange County Juneteenth celebration will offer opportunities to gather and 14 learn together—creating space for connection, remembrance, and shared purpose; 15 16 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED, that we, the Orange County Board of Commissioners, honor 17 Juneteenth as a living tradition — a reminder of how far we've come, and a commitment to continue 18 building a community rooted in truth, dignity, and repair. 19 20 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we proclaim Friday,June 19,2026 as JUNETEENTH FREEDOM DAY in Orange 21 County,and encourage all residents to take part in commemorating this historic day—by learning from the 22 past, gathering in the present, and carrying the work of freedom forward. 23 24 This,the 2nd day of June 2026. 25 26 27 Jean Hamilton, Chair 28 Orange County Board of Commissioners 29 30 A motion was made by Commissioner McKee, seconded by Vice-Chair Fowler, to approve and 31 authorize the Chair to sign the proclamation. 32 33 VOTE: UNANIMOUS 34 35 b. Proclamation Recognizing June 2026 as Pride Month 36 The Board approved a proclamation recognizing June 2026 as Pride Month in Orange County. 37 38 BACKGROUND: Each June, communities across the nation celebrate the courage and contributions of 39 LGBTQ+ individuals while honoring the movement's roots in resistance and resilience. Pride Month 40 commemorates the 1969 Stonewall Uprising in New York City — a spontaneous response to police 41 harassment that sparked a nationwide push for LGBTQ+ liberation and visibility. The first Pride marches, 42 held one year later, transformed that momentum into public demonstrations for equality, dignity, and 43 freedom. 44 45 Since Stonewall, LGBTQ+ advocacy has driven significant progress, including landmark Supreme Court 46 decisions affirming marriage equality and workplace protections, as well as expanded federal hate crime 47 legislation.Today, LGBTQ+individuals serve in leadership roles across every level of government,and Pride 48 events around the world continue to amplify voices of joy, identity, and justice. 7 1 Despite this progress, challenges persist. Discrimination, targeted legislation, and violence — especially 2 against transgender women of color—remain pressing concerns. LGBTQ+youth still face disproportionate 3 levels of bullying and mental health risks. In Orange County, local data echoes national trends, 4 underscoring the need for affirming spaces in schools and communities. Pride Month calls us not only to 5 celebrate how far we have come, but to reaffirm the commitment to a more inclusive and equitable future 6 where all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, are treated with dignity and respect. 7 8 One of several Pride Month events happening around Orange County in June includes the Chapel Hill Pride 9 Promenade on June 6, 2026 at 12:00 pm. 10 11 Chair Hamilton introduced the item. 12 Commissioners read the following proclamation in turn: 13 14 ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS 15 PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING JUNE 2026 16 AS PRIDE MONTH 17 18 WHEREAS, LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer) Pride Month is celebrated nationally 19 each year in the month of June,this month being chosen to commemorate the riots that took place at the 20 Stonewall Inn in Manhattan on the morning of June 28, 1969, often viewed as the birth of the modern 21 LGBTQ rights movement; and 22 23 WHEREAS, Pride Month honors the legacy of LGBTQ trailblazers who paved the way for greater 24 acceptance,visibility, and equality—from the courageous acts at the Stonewall Inn in 1969 to the ongoing 25 advocacy that has led to transformative social and legal progress across the nation; and June serves as a 26 time to reflect on these milestones, celebrate the rich diversity of the LGBTQ community, and recommit 27 to building a future rooted in equity, inclusion, and justice for all; and 28 29 WHEREAS, Orange County has a history of advancing the rights of its LGBTQ residents, including Carrboro 30 becoming the first town in the state to enact a domestic registry for same sex partners,extending eligibility 31 for employment benefits to same-sex partners of County employees in September 2004, and the election 32 of gay and lesbian elected officials within the County; and 33 34 WHEREAS, additionally, in January of 2021, Orange County was among the first local governments in the 35 state(along with Hillsborough, Carrboro,and Chapel Hill)to adopt a local nondiscrimination law extending 36 protections in public accommodation and employment for persons based on their sexual orientation, and 37 gender identity or expression; and 38 39 WHEREAS, Pride Month is a vibrant celebration of love, authenticity, and community, honoring the 40 strength and resilience of LGBTQ individuals who continue to shape culture, drive progress, and inspire 41 future generations; and Pride events across the country and in Orange County—such as the Chapel Hill 42 Pride Promenade on June 6 1 — provide opportunities for education, artistic expression, joyful visibility, 43 unity, and foster environments where people of all identities can be seen, supported, and celebrated; and 44 45 WHEREAS, Orange County is committed to standing with and supporting the LGBTQ community, and to 46 working to ensure that all people, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity or expression, 47 are treated with respect and dignity; 48 8 1 NOW, THEREFORE, we, the Orange County Board of Commissioners, do hereby proclaim the month of 2 June 2026 as PRIDE MONTH in Orange County. 3 4 This the 2nd day of June 2026. 5 6 7 8 Jean Hamilton, Chair 9 Orange County Board of Commissioners 10 11 A motion was made by Commissioner McKee, seconded by Vice-Chair Fowler, to approve and 12 authorize the Chair to sign the proclamation. 13 14 VOTE: UNANIMOUS 15 16 5. Public Hearings 17 None. 18 19 6. Regular Agenda 20 a. Opioid Advisory Committee Settlement Use Recommendations 21 The Board received an update on the Opioid Advisory Committee (OAC), received OAC recommendations 22 for use of Opioid Settlement Funds that support Option A of the NC Memorandum of Agreement on the 23 Allocation and Use of Opioid Settlement Funds in North Carolina, and directed staff to present a final 24 spending authorization resolution at the Board's June 16, 2026, Business meeting. 25 26 BACKGROUND: In July 2021, a bipartisan coalition of state attorneys general announced the National 27 Opioid Settlement — a historic $26 billion agreement that will help bring desperately needed help to 28 communities harmed by the opioid epidemic. The State of North Carolina and all 100 counties, including 29 Orange County,joined the agreement. Orange County is expected to receive $12,748,445 million over an 30 18-year period. 31 In September 2022, the BOCC approved the appointment of the Orange County Opioid Advisory 32 Committee with the following charge: 33 • Discuss opioid-related health concerns and issues impacting the residents of Orange County; 34 • Advise the Board of Commissioners on options to expend funds to prevent opioid abuse and 35 remedy opioid impacts; 36 • Plan and host an annual meeting open to the public to receive input on proposed uses of the 37 settlement funds and to encourage collaboration between local governments. 38 The Board also approved Option A for the use of the settlement funds per the NC Memorandum of 39 Agreement Opioid Settlement. 40 In FY 2025-26, Orange County has received a total of$1,020,216.03. Additionally, $56,236 of interest has 41 been recorded. 42 43 The Request for Proposals(RFP) process opened on January 1,2026. Four(4)Application Workshops were 44 conducted with two (2) in-person and two (2) virtual options. Technical assistance was provided to 45 applicants during the RFP process. Six(6)community applications were received by the February 20,2026 46 deadline. The Application Subcommittee of the Opioid Advisory Committee (OAC) reviewed applications 9 1 and made recommendations to OAC. The OAC reviewed the Subcommittee's recommendations on April 2 13, 2026. 3 4 The following recommendations for the 2026—2027 funding cycle are as follows: 5 0 Freedom House—$85,906—Reentry 6 • EI Futuro—$66,310—Early Intervention 7 • UNC-Student Wellness—$10,000— Naloxone Distribution 8 9 • TOTAL RECOMMENDATION—$162,216 10 11 Tonya Stancil, Harm Reduction Coordinator, made the following presentation: 12 13 Slide#1 ORTNGIRCOUN OPIOID AJune 2, 2026 COMMITTEP. 14 15 16 10 1 Slide#2 NC Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) • The MOA governs the allocation,use,and reporting of certain opioid settlement funds in North Carolina. • To comply with the MOA,a local government receiving opioid settlement funds must do the following: • A.Establish a fund.A local government receiving opioid settlement funds must secure them in a special revenue fund.These funds are subject to audit and cannot be commingled with other funds. • B.Authorize spending.Before spending opioid settlement funds,a local government must authorize the expenditure of such funds.This must take place through a formal budget or resolution that includes certain details including the amount,time period,and specific strategy funded. • C.Understand and follow the options.A local government must spend opioid settlement funds on opioid remediation activities authorized under Option A or Option B as detailed in the MOA. • D.Report spending and impact.A local government that receives,spends,or holds opioid settlement funds during a fiscal year must file an annual financial report within 90 days of the end of the fiscal year.(This report is required if funds are received or held,even if they are not spent.)A local government that spends opioid settlement funds during a fiscal year must file an annual impact report within 90 days of the end of the fiscal year. • E.Hold annual meeting.The MOA requires that each county receiving opioid settlement funds hold at least one annual meeting open to the public,with all municipalities in the county invited to the meeting.The purpose of the meeting is to receive input from municipalities on proposed uses of the opioid settlement funds and to encourage collaboration between local governments. https://ncdoi.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/NCACC-web-version-Final-Opioid-MOA-.Pdf 2 3 Tonya Stancil provided background, explaining that the opioid settlement funds resulted from 4 national litigation stemming from the opioid epidemic and are distributed to local entities such as Orange 5 County following state-level direction. She explained that North Carolina retains 15% of the funds at the 6 state level, with 85% distributed locally. North Carolina has developed a Memorandum of Agreement 7 governing fund usage. She noted that Orange County's annual impact report and finance report are due 8 September 27th each year. 9 10 Slide#3 Option A- High-Impact Opioid Abatement Strategies i.Collaborative Strategic Planning 2.Evidence-based addiction treatment 3.Recovery support services 4.Recovery housing support s.Employment-related services 6.Early intervention 7.Naloxone distribution s.Post-overdose response team 9.Syringe Service Program io.Criminal justice diversion programs ii.Addiction treatment for incarcerated persons 12.Reentry Programs https://www.morepowerfuI nc.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Exhi bit-A-to-NC-MOA-3.pdf 11 12 13 11 I Slide#4 Orange County Opioid Advisory Committee Charge Advise the Board of Plan dosannual meeting t . . proposedDiscuss opioid-related health Commissioners on options to . concerns and issues impacting —i ) expend funds to prevent opiold ;-2--> input on encouragethe residents of Orange County; abuse and remedy opoid settlement funds and to • .,• between localgovernments. 2 3 Tonya Stancil described the role of the Opioid Advisory Committee, which is charged with 4 discussing opioid-related health concerns, advising the Board on community award options, and planning 5 and hosting the annual public meeting. 6 7 Slide#5 2026-2027 Opioid Settlement Fund Proposals • Applications for the 2026-2027 Opioid Settlement Funds became available January 1,2026. • Application Workshops were offered: • January 1511—Whitted Human Services, Hillsborough, INC • January 13th—Southern Human Services,Chapel Hill, INC • January 20th and 22nd-Virtual • Open Question Period • February 2'd—13th,2026 • Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs) posted online and updated • February 20,2026,5 p.m.—Applications Due via Email to Harm Reduction Coordinator,Tonya Stancil. • March—April 2026—OAC Funding Subcommittee review applications • June 2026—Funding Recommendations presented to BOCC • July 1,2026—Awarded Contracts begin 8 9 Tonya Stancil walked through the 2026 application process and timeline. 10 12 1 Slide#6 Funding Proposal Application • Agency General Information • Proposal Summary(required but not scored) • Project Narrative(16 points) • Project Description&Program Sustainability(28 points) • Equity Impact(8 points) • Organizational Readiness(20 points) • Evidence of Collaborative/Partnerships(10 points) • Performance Measures&Program Evaluation(18 points) • Priority Strategy(5 extra points) • Supporting Documents Included: • Letters of Commitment and/or Support (Up to 5 letters) • Latest Audited Financial Statements,including Management letter(Attach letter of explanation if unable to provide) • Documentation of Tax Identification Number(can be IRS Determination Letter for non-profit agencies) • Certificate of Insurance • Non-Profit Agencies -IRS Determination Letter,Verification of 503(c)(3)status form,990 Form Tax Form,Board of Directors Roster • For-Profit Agencies—Board of Directors Roster,Agency Ong Chart,IRS Tax Form used for latest fiscal year filing 2 3 4 Slide#7 Subcommittee Criterion Discussion •"• �°°' �`„� r�K°. w. a�rv«« .w.«« Criterion 3b:"Well-planned activity that is likely to lead to the intended opioid-related impacts,based on the evidence base about strategy and/or activity effectiveness for the prioritized population: The"priority population"as defined for this purpose: • Individuals at highest risk for overdose in Orange County r�a�o�"e�n�„�Yr;.r.r..°..«�,:.'��o�,.�.ar.r.�r«.an«� °•.. a '� Individuals with multiple Adverse Childhood Experiences(ACES), �aS.t_ "-e.a �. M1 Substance Use Disorder during pregnancy and in first year of «.« °•,°«re •� Post Partum. °Mrei xafimkmor nalsn.°cerenpM1en=rvasu•tln=WAry Children and adolescents at risk for drug use. n erymkaa ro«eimecee°Nolo+eM1°earm°an,, we eawolen rb...e6a.rw.aee¢,..ala..nrM.W.�n.en..a l..eFe °P,°.• pl�°rrtn�Ln�tim navlrp. ro _°..�a..,,,�,=.M1,a„,,..-�_��« •„�,,,,,, Individuals in treatment or recovery. °°�`i«eh«ryervae«ew�w�e���rMM1 rver. • Individuals involved,or at risk of becoming involved,in the Criminal Justice system. 5 6 Tonya Stancil noted that one change from the prior year's process was the addition of a five-point 7 priority bonus in the scoring rubric for applications submitted under community-identified priority 8 strategies,based on voting conducted at the 2024 annual public meeting.The scoring rubric was also made 9 publicly available on the website. 10 11 13 1 Slide#8 Opioid Settlement Fund Applications (7)Applications Received 1) EI Futuro $66,309.79 2) Freedom House $85,907.00 3) UNC—Student Wellness$106,906.24 4) UNC- SHAC—$64,141 s) U NC—FOCUS—OAC - $99,999.90 6) Reintegration Support Network- $20,000 7) Early Identification Early Intervention Outreach Program— Budget worksheet Was not completed and submitted until after deadline and therefore was not scored and considered. 2 3 Tonya Stancil reported that seven applications were received. One application was not reviewed 4 because the applicant failed to submit a complete application. 5 6 Slide#9 Funding Recommendation: • Option A,Strategy 6(Early Intervention) • Funding Period—July 1, 2026—June 30, 2027 • Funding request—$66,309.79 • Funding recommendation—$66,310.00 • Description of Activity— EI Futuro will build upon last year's programming preventing and addressing substance use disorders (SUD), including opioid use disorder(OUD) and co-occurring mental health conditions among economically disadvantaged youth and young adults. 9This initiative will train Community Mental Health Workers(CMHWs) in Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment(SBIRT)and Motivational Interviewing(MI)to strengthen early intervention efforts and expand access to culturally and linguistically appropriate services. r Developing and distributing Spanish-language educational materials and conducting bilingual workshops,social media campaigns,and youth-focused community engagement that increases knowledge of opioid risks,improves awareness of behavioral health services, and ensures targeted populations receive accurate,stigma-free information and access to early intervention services.This will include education on the dangers of medication sharing and harm reduction strategies. 7 8 9 10 14 1 Slide#10 Funding Recommendation: Freedom House • Option A,Strategies 12(Reentry) • Funding Period—July, 2026—June 30, 2027 • Funding request—$85,907.00 • Funding recommendation—$85,907.00 • Provider—Freedom House Recovery Center • Description ofActivity— Freedom House connects with individuals screened in the Orange County Detention Center who have a history of Opioid Use Disorder.The licensed clinician was formerly funded 2023—2025 and conducts a comprehensive clinical assessment to ascertain the best treatment options forthe individual prior to or upon release from incarceration. The Peer Support Specialist assists individuals with gettin to treatment,court appearances, linkage to community resources and other needs to curb recidivism.-Position formerly funded with Opioid Settlement funds 2023-2025 and 2025—2026. Funds would cover salary/benefits,cell phone service, mileage and training. 2 3 4 Slide#11 Funding Recommendation: UNC — Student Wellness • Option A, Strategy 7 (Naloxone Distribution) • Funding Period-July 1, 2026-June 30, 2027 • Funding request-$ 106,906.24 • Funding recommendation -$10,000 • Description of Activity- yAims to increase the availability of naloxone to expand campus-wide opioid overdose prevention education and naloxone distribution program. y Program aims to increase the availability of naloxone in high-traffic areas on campus. y Funding would provide naloxone supply for use in distribution. 5 6 Tonya Stancil noted that the total of the three recommendations is$162,217, below the available 7 ceiling of$200,000. 8 9 10 15 1 Slide#12 Next Steps: Fundingrecommendations presented . : • June . . We have been granted up to$2oo,000 for community grants. BOCC decides on final funding decisions. OCHD Staff notifygrant awardeesand work on Contracts • • - completed and reporting 10 9 requi ents explained a ntees by • 2 3 Tonya Stancil noted that upon board approval,contracts would be developed and executed in time 4 for a July 1st start. 5 6 Slide#13 i i 7 8 Commissioner Carter thanked Tonya Stancil for her report and work on distributing the funds. She 9 asked her to explain the reasoning behind the significant gap between UNC's request and the amount 10 awarded. 16 1 Tonya Stancil said that the committee felt UNC, as a large institution, should be supporting that 2 programming more substantially on its own, but that the committee also did not want students to be 3 without access to Naloxone that they might not otherwise have. The $10,000 award was therefore 4 intended to ensure a base supply on campus. S Commissioner Portie-Ascott asked about the early identification and early intervention outreach 6 program that was not awarded funds, specifically whether services of that kind were being provided by 7 any of the other awarded organizations. 8 Tonya Stancil said that the application was not looked at because it wasn't submitted in full by the 9 deadline. Because the committee focused only on the complete and eligible applications, they did not 10 analyze the content of the incomplete application in detail. 11 Commissioner Portie-Ascott asked if that practice is consistent with what has been done in the 12 past. 13 Tonya Stancil said all the applications last year were submitted in full by the deadline. 14 15 A motion was made by Vice-Chair Fowler, seconded by Commissioner McKee, to direct staff to 16 present a final spending authorization resolution to the Board on June 16, 2026. 17 18 VOTE: UNANIMOUS 19 20 b. Acceptance of Updated Orange County Agricultural Viability and Farmland Stewardship Plan 21 The Board accepted the updated Agricultural Viability and Farmland Stewardship Plan for Orange County 22 to replace the 2009 Plan document. 23 24 BACKGROUND: In 2009, the BOCC adopted the County's first Agricultural Development and Farmland 25 Preservation Plan, prepared by the Agricultural Preservation Board (APB) in response to state legislation 26 passed in 2005 that encouraged counties to develop such plans as a means of enhancing local support for 27 farmland preservation and improving the economic viability of farming operations. In 2022, the APB 28 started work on a three-year project to update and replace the existing 2009 Plan.The timing of this Plan 29 update project will allow the APB to meet its goal of having a completed Plan that can provide an 30 agricultural preservation component for integration into the County's current Land Use Plan 2050 update 31 process. 32 33 The APB is pleased to present this updated version, entitled Agricultural Viability and Farmland 34 Stewardship Plan for Orange County, to replace the existing Plan. This document represents hundreds of 35 hours of dedication and hard work by the APB's Farmland Protection Subcommittee and includes input 36 and feedback from area farmers, along with collaboration with the staff of the following: Orange County 37 Center of NC Cooperative Extension, Orange County Soil and Water District, the Orange County Planning 38 Department and Orange County DEAPR. 39 40 An initial draft of the updated Plan was presented to the BOCC at a work session on April 8, 2025. At that 41 time, BOCC members shared their insights and provided valuable feedback.The subcommittee edited and 42 revised the Plan to address the various questions and issues raised by the BOCC. At the direction of the 43 BOCC, the subsequent draft was then reviewed by Planning and Legal staff.Their recommendations have 44 been incorporated into the attached final draft version. Once approved, the new Plan must be forwarded 45 to the staff of the North Carolina Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund (ADFP) 46 for acceptance. This is required to allow Orange County to continue to receive preference and enjoy 47 reduced matching fund requirements for state ADFP Trust Fund grants, which are awarded on a 48 competitive statewide basis. Trust Fund grants are an important source of funding for farmland 17 1 preservation efforts, as the funds allow County funds to be significantly leveraged. Since 2016, Orange 2 County has been awarded just over $1.9 million in ADFP Trust Fund grants to support farmland projects 3 being undertaken through the Lands Legacy and Conservation Easement programs. Having a current, 4 updated Plan also demonstrates Orange County's strong commitment to farmland preservation, an 5 important factor in the ADFP Trust Fund's competitive application evaluation process. 6 7 Michael Hughes, Agricultural Preservation Board (APB) Chair, made the following presentation: 8 9 Slide#1 All tools • - - "'� Q Add rommeMs Pro- Agr Q FIIESign ©Meawre objeRs - _ , ^, tt �- Fa rrr Agricultural i s Viability and Farmland Stewardship Plan FOR ORANGE COUNTY, D, Q c IAr �, SOIL&WATER ... r ORAaN I C&Ur 10 11 Michael Hughes said the Plan represents three years' worth of hard work by the Agricultural 12 Preservation Board (APB), specifically the subcommittee that drafted the plan. He recognized APB staff 13 members, subcommittee members, and farmers in attendance for their work and support of this plan. He 14 specifically recognized Jane Saiers, who he said put in many hundreds of hours in leading the drafting 15 effort. 16 17 18 1 Slide#2 Soil Surveys and Land Use Planning I 22 2 3 Michael Hughes read the preface from the 1966 book Soil Surveys and Land Use Planning, noting 4 its contemporary relevance:that good agricultural land faces increasing pressure from urban growth,that 5 many of the decisions about land use are irreversible, and that the importance of sound land use planning 6 is paramount. He argued that sixty years later, the threats to Orange County's productive farmland are 7 even more pressing and referenced the common refrain among farmers that once farmland is developed, 8 it's forever lost for farming. 9 10 Slide#3 11 12 Michael Hughes reported that between 2017 and 2025, Orange County lost 24% of its active 13 farmland — a decrease from approximately 70,000 acres to 53,000 — according to the most recent USDA 14 Census of Agricultural Statistics. He described the dominant pattern of new residential development 15 outside municipal boundaries as large-lot subdivisions on prime, level farmland,the form of development 16 that consumes the greatest acreage per housing unit. He emphasized that supporting local agriculture is 17 also an economic development priority, with farming operations spanning traditional crops, intensive 18 small farms, and agritourism, all providing jobs, income, and tax revenue. He also cited an economic 19 analysis showing that for every dollar of property tax revenue generated by farmland, Orange County 20 spends approximately$0.72,whereas residential development costs approximately$1.32 per dollar of tax 21 revenue. 19 1 Slide#4 "So while we have worked our butts off to protect A 34,000 acres farmland, a s s = we re • _i i • to lose 11 ,500 Chatham Park • i cres just a I i r ! a i d to NC • 1 of Agriculture, 1 in 2024, referring to new mega-sites for lose between aas / , / and factories • and the massive Chatham Park development 19,000 acres of farmland in the next 15 years American Farmland Trust • Orange Countydata 2 3 Michael Hughes discussed projections that Orange County will lose between 14,000 and 19,000 4 acres of farmland in the next 15 years (approximately 1,000 acres per year), largely to housing 5 development. He highlighted bright spots, including Orange County's Lands Legacy Program, which since 6 2000 has protected over 4,200 acres through conservation easements,including 29 agricultural easements 7 protecting 2,300 acres. 8 9 Slide#5 Voluntary Agricultural District and Enhanced Voluntary Agricultural District Program-Spring 2026 � 60 ' �CedrT�O f WCaldwM a 1 "• M / showing all,farms in the VotuntaryJ Agricultural . Program and the Enhanced Voluntary Agricultural District Ruckgndnd Program• • / • / • of a f, scnreyi•n¢ a � fr • farms encompassing •33 acres1 .- Fdysr ugh VAD Farms: • . (withdrawy.,. 1. ,,,cane CreekiSuckhornEVAD Farms: I Mew X¢pe 2,807 acres (10-year agreement) - f Ram ♦ - anala g same rp Ctarfbd 4 Y'petl� ORANGE COUhfTY Whltes Cross III\ hlte 35 z / 10 Cross iptl "N`� -��- ' . . . . . .- . . . . . . ... Primary goals of our new Plan: Goal 1: Plan FOR Agriculture: Elevate the importance of agriculture in land use planning by prioritizing it in the 2050 Land Use Plan Goal 2: Conserve Farmland Through Direct Measures: promote and support agricultural conservation easements and voluntary agreements; assist landowners with farm succession planning Goal 3: Enhance the Economic Viability of Agriculture: promote measures that support farmers in expanding and diversifying their businesses, including educational opportunities, business development and marketing, and continued support for the County's Ag Economic Development grant program. 21 1 Michael Hughes summarized the plan's three primary goals. 2 3 Slide#8 PRIORITY +► ` Objectives 1. Identify the priorities and resources necessary to implement the Climate Action Plan. • • •• 2. Invest in our infrastructure to reduce the environmental impact of the County fleet/facilities and improve safety. 3. Improve educational opportunities for County staff and • • • ••• • community members on climate action and available resources to advance climate action projects. • •. • 4. Incentivize and promote sustainable agriculture and local food systems development through supportive policy,funding, • • farmland protection and educational outreach • • _ • • " 5. Review land use policies to promote and connect Town, County,and private trails and open spaces. • - • 6. Protect water supply/watersheds. 7. Conserve and protect high priority open space,including • "• • • Natural Heritage sites,nature preserves,watershed riparian buffers,and prime/threatened farmiand. 8. Include environmental stewardship objectives in the Comprehensive Land Use Plan. 4 5 Michael Hughes connected the plan's goals to the county's Strategic Plan 2025-2029 objectives 6 on environmental protection and climate action. 7 8 Slide#9 R�• 4A r 1. 9 22 1 Michael Hughes noted that neighboring counties, including Wake and Chatham, have recently 2 implemented robust new farmland preservation programs in response to similar pressures. He closed by 3 asking the Board to accept the plan, reiterating that it is intended as a dynamic document to be updated 4 biannually, with implementation of its recommendations targeted for 2026 through 2030. 5 Chair Hamilton thanked the APB and staff for their hard work and the level of detail provided. She 6 recognized those who had signed up to make public comment on this item. 7 8 PUBLIC COMMENT: 9 John Dempsey offered three points in support of the plan. First, he cited food security, noting that 10 local family farms fed Orange County residents during the COVID-19 pandemic when regional food 11 distribution was disrupted, and that growth in surrounding counties will increase future market demand 12 for local food. Second, he argued that preserving agricultural and rural residential zoning is essential to 13 protecting future drinking water resources, pointing to the well-documented phenomenon of "urban 14 stream syndrome", the scientifically documented degradation of freshwater streams resulting from 15 current development practices, and noted that current zoning is the primary protection against further 16 destruction of municipal water supplies. Third, he urged the Board not just to adopt but to embrace the 17 plan, asserting that it aligns with the overwhelming wishes of residents expressed during public input 18 sessions and the strategic plan survey, which reflected strong expectations that farmland and 19 environmentally sensitive lands would be preserved. 20 Margo Lakin described her reliance on local farms during the pandemic and continued 21 dependence on local farmers for daily food.She asked the Board to protect farmland by accepting the plan 22 and referenced multiple land use plan public input sessions in which community members identified 23 farmland conservation as a top priority. She cited a briefing by Clarion Associates in which the 24 comprehensive land use plan's public survey identified family farms as the second-highest priority for 25 conservation behind parks and nature preserves,with protecting farmland and healthy soil ranking second 26 and third as key environmental priorities. 27 Ashley Parker said she is a 5th-generation farmer in Hurdle Mills. She thanked the subcommittee 28 that worked on the plan and acknowledged the complexity of the data and the deeply personal nature of 29 agriculture. She described the web of relationships that underlie farming. She offered an example,tracing 30 the lifecycle of a single steer from her farm through Piedmont Custom Meats in Gibson to the rendering 31 of bones, hides, and hooves into fertilizers, pharmaceuticals, insulation, soaps, adhesives, glues, shoes, 32 and even violin strings. She stated that Orange County can feed only approximately 30% of its current 33 population with existing farmland and argued that once farmland is lost, the county will be forced to 34 outsource its food production. She also addressed the present-use value tax deferral program, noting it 35 allows farmers to sustain their operations during difficult years, and called on the Board not to rely on 36 farm failures and the resulting deferred tax recapture to fund county operations. 37 Pat Mann,who homesteads on 27 acres in Cedar Grove and produces 75-80%of his family's food, 38 called on commissioners to change their approach to land use decisions, arguing that prioritizing revenue 39 over land stewardship will ultimately fail the community. He described his prior experience as a pediatric 40 nurse and his belief that no parent wants their child to have unsafe water, polluted air, or processed food 41 shipped from thousands of miles away. He argued that small intensive farmers with affordable access to 42 land can provide fresh, organic food within days, and that their spending stays in the local community. He 43 also urged the Board to broaden its definition of productive farmland, noting that even undeveloped land 44 produces value by allowing water to recharge aquifers. 45 Marlena Byrne said she lives in Hillsborough and is part of the Ten Mothers Farm CSA and attends 46 the local farmers' market weekly. She said she loves knowing where her food comes from, meeting the 47 people who grew it, and walking to pick it up. She said locally grown, healthy food should be available to 48 all North Carolinians. She noted her professional roles as acting Chief Resilience Officer for the state, a 23 1 land use planning lawyer, and former board chair of Triangle Land Conservancy, and described how her 2 work on climate resilience policy has deepened her understanding of small, diverse, local food production. 3 She cited the impacts of extreme weather events, including Hurricane Chantal the prior year, as evidence 4 that diverse local farms producing multiple crops provide greater food system resilience than 5 monocultures.She argued that the Triangle's rapid growth need not come at the expense of farmland,and 6 urged the Board to act now, warning that once these farms are converted to development,they are gone 7 forever. 8 9 Following public comment,Commissioner Bedford thanked the presenters and noted she had read 10 the plan last night. She expressed appreciation for the appendices, which she found helpful in 11 understanding which elements of the Unified Development Ordinance are implicated. She raised a 12 distinction between preserving open space and preserving farmland as something she would like to see 13 reflected more clearly in the land use plan, and referenced page 172 of the plan, which addresses how to 14 define prime farmland, including the criteria of less than 8% slope and location outside municipal ETJs. 15 She asked staff to help her understand how the different county departments like Cooperative Extension, 16 the farm agency, and the planning and development department, would coordinate to implement the 17 plan, and how the existing conservation easement rubric would be applied specifically to farmland. She 18 expressed support for adopting the plan and suggested sitting down with some of the subcommittee 19 members to deepen her understanding of implementation. Finally, she shared a personal anecdote about 20 a honeydew melon from a local farmers' market that was unlike anything available at a grocery store. 21 Vice-Chair Fowler added her appreciation for the work invested in the plan and described it as a 22 very detailed roadmap to mitigate land loss and foster farming into the future. She reflected on her own 23 background and noted her daily work as a pediatrician counseling families to eat fruits and vegetables. 24 She confirmed she would vote to accept the plan. 25 Commissioner Carter also thanked the APB for this proposal. She clarified that there are some 26 recommendations that the Board needs to talk more about how to implement. She said there is a path 27 forward for the Board to have those conversations. 28 Commissioner Greene said this plan has real structural improvements from the prior version.She 29 highlighted her appreciation for how the plan integrates with the land use plan,strategic plan,and climate 30 action plan. She referenced illustrations on page 25 from the American Farmland Trust, originally 31 presented by Jane Sears at an Ag Summit several years ago, which she said clearly illustrated that 32 minimizing sprawl and preserving farmland are two sides of the same coin. She noted resources already 33 available in the community,including lawyers in Hillsborough experienced in farm succession planning and 34 dozens of CSAs.She also underscored the need to broadcast the value of Orange County's agriculture more 35 broadly, noting that some residents in town may not realize the productive value of rural lands. 36 Commissioner Portie-Ascott offered thanks to the farmers, drawing on her own upbringing as the 37 child of a tobacco and peanut farmer in Eastern North Carolina,and expressing her overall support for the 38 plan. 39 Commissioner McKee said he still views himself as a farmer even though it is a smaller operation 40 than it used to be. He shared that the last coherent sentence his mother spoke was to tell her children 41 that they could not sell the family land, which had been in the family for over 200 years. He noted the 42 intense market pressure on farmland, citing adjacent property sales at$28,500 per acre and $62,000 per 43 acre. He spoke candidly about the difficulty of farming, comparing profitability to development, stating 44 that in two years of developing part of a farm he had rented and worked for 19 years, he made significantly 45 more money than in all those years of farming. He stated that succession plans, while valuable in theory, 46 are often ineffective in practice because any family member who wants to sell can force a sale. He argued 47 that the county cannot regulate or legislate its way to farmland preservation, but can help develop 48 markets, processing facilities,and aggregation capacity,citing the county's food and agriculture processing 24 1 facility as an example. He expressed wholehearted support for the plan while urging realism about the 2 pressures involved. 3 4 A motion was made by Chair Hamilton, seconded by Commissioner Bedford, to authorize staff to 5 submit the final plan to the Agricultural and Farmland Protection Trust Fund program. 6 7 Commissioner Greene asked about the plan's reference to a feasibility study for a regional market 8 and aggregation distribution center near 1-40 and 1-85, in collaboration with the NC Department of 9 Agriculture and in coordination with Tri-COG FEEDS. She asked about the status of that initiative. 10 Mike Ortosky responded that Tri-COG FEEDS was a project funded across three Councils of 11 Governments to address supply chain issues in the region. The study focused on shortening and 12 regionalizing food supply chains, with aggregation and distribution identified as critical needs. He noted 13 that the report supports the concept of a food hub and light industrial food campus, pointing to examples 14 such as Weaver Street looking for larger shared space, and described possibilities for shared cold chain 15 management, aggregation, and distribution transportation systems. 16 17 VOTE: UNANIMOUS 18 19 Commissioner Bedford asked if any farmers in the room had applied for the agriculture grants, 20 and some members of the audience responded yes. 21 22 c. Update on Interlocal Agreement between County and Towns for Tax Collection 23 The Board received an update on the discussions with the towns on the current Tax Collections Interlocal 24 Agreement (ILA) and provided direction to staff on potential action to terminate the ILA. 25 26 BACKGROUND: In 1979 the County entered into an agreement with Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and 27 Hillsborough whereby the Orange County Tax Collector would,on behalf of the Towns, bill and collect the 28 towns' tax levies in accordance with North Carolina General Statute 160A-461. 29 30 In 2006 the agreement was updated, and the municipal tax collection rate was set at 0.5% of the annual 31 amount collected for each of the towns.The expiration was set not to exceed 99 years from July 1, 2006. 32 The agreement requires unanimous agreement from all three (3) towns to make amendments and 33 requires a one-year notice for termination. 34 35 Research by Tax Office staff indicates that the current 0.5%municipal tax collection rate is below the state 36 average. In a survey of over 25 county collection fees, the average and most common fee from counties 37 is 1.5%of municipal tax collection. Orange County's tax collection fee was the lowest in the survey group. 38 39 The Board of County Commissioners has entered into an agreement with GAR Associates to make 40 recommendations on enhancements to the Assessment Division of the Tax Office. These enhancements 41 will be targeted to ensure a more equitable and better communicated revaluation in 2029. The County 42 would be able to utilize additional municipal funding to support the recommendations made by the 43 consultant and other tax office divisions enhancements. 44 45 County staff provided this information to the Board of County Commissioners in February 2026, and 46 received direction to communicate with staff from the three (3) entities. The County had staff-level 47 conversations with Carrboro and Hillsborough, as well as manager-level conversations with Chapel Hill. 48 25 1 Given the limitations of the current agreement—the unanimous agreement requirement foram end ment, 2 the 99-year term, and the one-year termination notice — County staff believe that the County should 3 terminate the current agreement. This would allow the County to enter into more limited term 4 agreements with each municipality separately. To begin negotiations for tax collection in the 2027-28 5 fiscal year, the County would need to terminate the agreement prior to June 30, 2026. 6 7 Kirk Vaughn, Budget Director, made the following presentation: 8 9 Slide#1 ORANGE COUNTY 1*4C M-rM CARC3LINA Interlocal Agreement — County and Towns Taxation Collection Board of Commissioners Business Meeting June 2,2026 10 11 12 Slide#2 Current Joint ILA for Municipal Tax Collection Charges • Original Interlocal Agreement made in 1978 in accordance with North Carolina General Statute 160A-461 to collect taxes for Carrboro, Chapel Hill, and Hillsborough. • Updated in 2006—single agreement that included all three towns. • Municipal tax collection rate set at 0.5%of the annual amount collected for each of the towns with an expiration of agreement set not to exceed 99 years from July 1, 2006. • Agreement requires unanimous approval from all three towns and County to make amendments and requires a one-year notice for termination. ORANGE COUNTY 2 NORTH CAROLINA 13 26 1 Kirk Vaughn noted that the original agreement dates to 1978 and was last updated in 2006. It is a 2 single agreement among all parties, including the county and three towns, with a 99-year term. Any 3 amendment requires unanimous approval by all parties, and termination before the end of the term 4 requires a one-year notice. 5 6 Slide#3 Purpose The Tax Office and Budget have met with all three towns, and informed them of the county's interest in replacing the current agreement with separate agreements with regular 5-year terms. Staff are seeking guidance from Board whether to terminate agreement prior to June 30th, to renegotiate for FY 28. 3 OR OR GE H ORT 7 8 Kirk Vaughn reported that he and Tax Office staff had met with all three towns to inform them of 9 the county's interest in replacing the current agreement with separate,individually negotiated agreements 10 with regular five-year terms. 11 12 Slide#4 Tax Office Operating Expenses Tax Office Expenditures $6,000,000.00 • Increased by 62% since 2016 $5,000,000.00 • $1 ,882,056 increase in annual needs $4,000,000.00 • Operating Expenses have $3,000000.00 outpaced Municipal Fee $2,000,000.00 Revenue $1,00c.000.00 • Municipal Fee covers 7% of Dept Expenses $ zois zon zma zoic zozo zozi zozz 2023 2024 zoos ORANGE COUNTY 4 NORTH CAROLINA 13 27 1 Kirk Vaughn said that the municipal fee currently covers only approximately 7% of department 2 operations, even as department costs have increased significantly. 3 4 Slide#5 Survey: Fees Charged for Municipal Tax Collection • Tax Office staff surveyed counties In Comparison, Orange's Cost for municipal collection rates, and To Municipalities is the lowest combined results with results of a at 0.5/o Wake County survey. 1.50, 10 2.00% 4 • Twenty-seven counties 0.75% 3 1.00% 3 3.00% 2 • Range from 0.5%to 3.0%. 0.50% 2 1.75% 1 0.85% 1 • Ten counties charge 1.5% 1.25% 1 Grand Total 27 Median 1.50% • Average rate 1.45% Average 1.45% a ORANGE COUNTY 5 NORTI-i CAROLINA 5 6 Kirk Vaughn shared results from a survey of counties across the state, which found that Orange 7 County's fee of 0.5% of collections is the lowest of the quarter of counties surveyed, with the average 8 being approximately 1.5%. 9 10 Slide#6 Wake County Fee Increase • Wake County presented to Tax Assessment Workgroup on December 2nd • In 2021 went through similar review of its costs to municipalities, which was significantly below peers. • Implemented four-year phase in from FY 2022 through FY 2025 from 0.2% to 0.75%. • Goal was to have Municipal Fees cover 50% of Operating and Revaluation expenses. • Funded enhancements to the office in that four-year window. • Since 2024 revaluation, Wake BOCC committed to a transition from 4-year cycle to 2-year cycle by 2029. ORANGE COUNTY 6 NORTH CAROLINA 11 12 Kirk Vaughn referenced Wake County's experience moving from 0.2% to 0.75% over a phased 13 period, noting that while Wake's larger tax base makes 0.75% generate substantially more revenue, the 14 process is instructive. 28 1 Slide#7 Questions? 3 Kirk Vaughn asked the Board whether they wished to provide direction to terminate the current 4 agreement before June 30, 2026, so that new individual agreements could be in place for the FY 2027-28 5 tax year. He clarified that the county would still collect taxes for the towns in FY 2026-27 during the 6 negotiation period. 7 Commissioner Carter said she supports this direction and thanked staff and the towns for the 8 initial conversations. 9 Commissioner Bedford agreed. She asked whether the county could give the towns a firm price 10 now, and whether this process is connected to or independent from the Tax Assessment Work Group. 11 Kirk Vaughn responded that while the revenue generated from the new fees would likely fund 12 some recommendations from the Tax Assessment Work Group, the rate negotiation itself is more about 13 returning to a peer-average level. He noted that the county would have a full year to negotiate and that 14 the team has discussed phasing in any rate increases to avoid abrupt jumps for the towns. 15 Commissioner Bedford said she doesn't necessarily want to make a profit, but acknowledged that, 16 currently,the county is losing money providing this service. 17 Commissioner Portie-Ascott asked if it is reasonable for each town to have the same rate. 18 Kirk Vaughn said that would be the goal, but it would be dependent on individual negotiations 19 with each municipality. 20 Commissioner Bedford added that it would also be based on the number of bills going out to each 21 jurisdiction. 22 Kirk Vaughn said it would be based on each town's levy. 23 Chair Hamilton clarified that the levy refers to a percentage and is not based on the total bills. 24 Kirk Vaughn confirmed that it is a percentage of tax revenue collected. 25 Commissioner Carter referenced discussions from the Tax Assessment Work Group,in which Wake 26 County presented how they re-engineered their revaluation process to address equity issues. She noted 27 that Wake's tax administrator proposed funding 50%of the tax office's cost of administering municipal tax 28 services through municipal service fees, apportioned based on each municipality's tax base. Wake 29 County's board approved a phased implementation plan, which has helped fund re-engineering work in 30 the Wake County tax office. 31 Chair Hamilton asked whether Wake County had shared how their municipalities responded to 32 the proposed changes and questioned whether directly comparing Orange County to Wake County is 33 appropriate given the significant difference in tax base size. 34 Vice-Chair Fowler agreed with providing notice of termination. 35 Commissioner McKee also agreed and endorsed the need for no more 99-year agreements. 36 29 1 A motion was made by Vice-Chair Fowler to terminate the current Interlocal Agreement prior to 2 June 30, 2026, in order to renegotiate the individual terms with each of the municipalities. The motion 3 was seconded by Commissioner McKee. 4 5 VOTE: UNANIMOUS 6 7 7. Reports 8 None. 9 10 8. Consent Agenda 11 12 A motion was made by Vice-Chair Fowler, seconded by Commissioner McKee, to approve the 13 consent agenda. 14 15 VOTE: UNANIMOUS 16 17 a. Minutes for May 5, 2026 18 The Board approved the minutes for the May 5, 2026 Board of Commissioners Meeting. 19 b. Motor Vehicle Property Tax Releases/Refunds 20 The Board adopted a resolution to release motor vehicle property tax values for six (6) taxpayers with a 21 total of six (6) bills that will result in a reduction of revenue. 22 c. Property Tax Release/Refund 23 The Board adopted a resolution to release a property tax value for one (1)taxpayer with a total of one (1) 24 bill that will result in a reduction of revenue. 25 d. National Gun Violence Awareness Day Proclamation 26 The Board approved a proclamation recognizing June 5, 2026 as National Gun Violence Awareness Day. 27 e. Trails Day Proclamation 28 The Board approved a proclamation declaring June 6, 2026 as "Trails Day" in Orange County. 29 f. Fiscal Year 2025-26 Budget Amendment#11 30 The Board approved budget, grant, and capital project ordinance amendments for Fiscal Year 2025-26. 31 g. Approval of a Contract with Samet Corporation for Construction Manager-At-Risk Services for the 32 Renovation of the John M. Link,Jr.Government Services Center and Construction of the Sheriff's 33 Evidence Storage Facility 34 The Board: 35 1) Reviewed the proposal and contract with Samet Corporation for Construction Manager-At Risk 36 services for the renovation of the John M. Link, Jr. Government Services Center and the 37 construction of the Sheriff's Evidence Storage Facility; 38 2) Approved funding for Phase I only at a cost of$193,339 for pre-construction services; and 39 3) Approved and authorized the County Manager to execute the contract, subject to final review by 40 the County Attorney, and any subsequent amendments for contingent and unforeseen 41 requirements up to the approved budget amount on behalf of the Board of County Commissioners. 42 h. Approval of Construction Contract Award—Electric Vehicle Charizing Station (EVCS) Installation 43 Proiect at the Orange Transportation Services Facility 44 The Board: 45 1) Approved the County entering into a construction contract with Stelco Electric LLC for the 46 installation of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (EVCS) at the Orange Transportation Services 47 Facility; and 30 1 2) Authorized the County Manager to execute the Agreement, subject to final review by the County 2 Attorney,and any subsequent amendments for contingent and unforeseen requirements up to the 3 approved budget amount on behalf of the Board. 4 i. Approval of Construction Contract Award—Resurfacing of Little River Regional Park Driveway, 5 Parking Area, and ADA Walking Trail 6 The Board: 7 1) Approved the County entering into a construction contract with Lanier Construction Company for 8 the resurfacing of the driveway, parking area, and ADA walking trail at Little River Regional Park 9 and Natural Area; and 10 2) Authorized the County Manager to execute the Agreement, subject to final review and approval 11 by the County Attorney, and any subsequent amendments for contingent and unforeseen 12 requirements up to the approved budget amount on behalf of the Board. 13 j. Approval of an Updated Increased Cost of Existing Service Policy for Transit 14 The Board approved an updated Increased Cost of Existing Service (ICES) Policy, part of the Transit 15 Governance Financial Policies and Procedures. 16 17 9.County Manager's Report 18 Travis Myren reminded the Board of the June 4 Budget Work Session. 19 20 10. County Attorney's Report 21 Staff Attorney James Bryan had no report. 22 23 11.Appointments 24 None. 25 26 12. Information Items 27 • May 19, 2026 BOCC Meeting Follow-up Actions List 28 • Tax Collector's Report— Numerical Analysis 29 • Tax Collector's Report—Measure of Enforced Collections 30 • Tax Collector's Report— In-Rem Foreclosure Progress Report 31 • Tax Assessor's Report—Releases/Refunds under$100 32 33 13. Closed Session 34 None. 35 36 Adjournment 37 38 A motion was made by Vice-Chair Fowler, seconded by Commissioner Bedford, to adjourn the 39 meeting at 9:12 p.m. 40 41 VOTE: UNANIMOUS 42 43 Jean Hamilton, Chair 44 45 46 Recorded by Tara May, Deputy Clerk to the Board 47 48 Submitted for approval by Laura Jensen, Clerk to the Board