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Home My WebLink AboutMinutes 05-28-2026 - Budget and Capital Investment Plan Public Hearing 1 APPROVED 7/9/26 MINUTES ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BUDGET AND CAPITAL INVESTMENT PLAN PUBLIC HEARING AND WORK SESSION May 28, 2026 7:00 p.m. The Orange County Board of Commissioners met for a Budget and Capital Investment Plan Public Hearing and Work Session on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at the Southern Human Services Center in Chapel Hill, NC. COUNTY COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Chair Jean Hamilton, Vice-Chair Amy Fowler, and Commissioners Jamezetta Bedford, Marilyn Carter, Sally Greene, Earl McKee, and Phyllis Portie-Ascott COUNTY COMMISSIONERS ABSENT: None COUNTY ATTORNEYS PRESENT: Martha Bordogna, Staff Attorney COUNTY STAFF PRESENT: County Manager Travis Myren, Deputy County Manager Caitlin Fenhagen, and Clerk to the Board Laura Jensen (All other staff members will be identified appropriately below) Chair Hamilton called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. All commissioners were present. 1. Opening Remarks Chair Hamilton welcomed everyone in attendance and for their comments and participation in the budget process. Chair Hamilton explained the process for making public comments. Commissioner McKee said he was withdrawing amendment CIP-1308 regarding funds for affordable housing. 2. Presentation of the County Manager's Recommended FY 2026-27 Budget County Manager Travis Myren made the following presentation: Slide#1 ORANGE COUNTY NORTH CAROLINA Manager's Recommended FY2026-27 Operating Budget May 12 & 28, 2026 Budget Public Hearings z Slide#2 FY2026-27 Operating Budget Introduction FY2026-27 Operating Budget Priorities t. Minimize Tax Rate Increase 4. Maximize Efficiencies in County Operations and Underscore Cost Recovery while Preserving Core Services 2. Prioritize Public Safety and Social Safety Net Direct Services 5. Modestly Invest in the Employee Compensation 3. Support School Current Expense and Pay-Go Package Funding Amid Declining Enrollment 6. Align any New Budget Investments with Strategic Plan Goals ORANGE COUNTY 2 NORTH CAROLINA Slide#3 FY 2026-27 Operating Budget Introduction • Total Recommended Budget at a Glance -Total General Fund Revenue -$325,130,721 $275,868,111 Generated by Taxes—Property Tax,Sales Tax and Licenses—85% $49,262,610 Generated by County Operations—Grants, Fees, Donations, Fund Balance, Interest, etc.—15% -Total Operating Budget (General Fund) -$325,130,721 Total K-12 Education (Operating +Debt Service)$148,379,362 or 54%of County Tax Revenue Net County (Operating +Debt Service—Dept Revenue) $127,488,749 or 46%of County Tax Revenue 3 ORAR GE�COUNATY 3 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 Planning and Inspections-$267,100 Sheriff's Office revenue reductions—($600,000) Food and Nutrition Services Administrative Costs—($680,000) ORANGE COUNTY 4 NORTH CAROLINA Slide#5 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 �1 5 ORANGE CA COUNTY 4 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 1rotal Funding Base Amount $111,328.011 2.4% 1% $112,441,291 3.5% 1.5% $112,997,931 4.0% 2% $113,554,571 4.5% 2.5% $114,114,132 5.01/1 3% $114,667,851 5.5% • Nurse and Student Resource Officer Contracts increase 3%_$123,744 to$4,248,550 • Pay-Go increase as recommended in Capital Investment Plan -$3.0 million -�- ORANGE COUNTY 6 NORTH CAROLINA 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 11,993 u,000 lgaz 11,382 11,253 11,141 11,018 11,000 10 741 10,000 9,000 CHCCS 7,966 8,072 8,011 8,134 8,15fi 8,110 8,023 8,003 7,936 7,925 fOCS 7,863 7 g01 7 751 8,000 7,227 7,148 7,172 7,357 7,487 7,000 6,000 5,000 2007-08 2M" 20�10 201 h 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 201415 201516 201F17 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 2023-24 202425 2025-26 202F27 CHCCS Budgeted Student Decrease of 277 Students Budgeted student percentage decreases from 58.16%to 58.08% r OCS Budgeted Student Decrease of 174 Students ORANGE COUNTY 7 Budgeted student percentage increases from 41.84%to 41.92% NORTH CAROLINA 5 Slide#8 Provide Continuation Funding to Schools County Per Pupil Funding Amount History $294 fwc efnm $7,oaa FY2025.26 $6,171 $6,000 $5 877 $5,346 $5,000 $4,lfifi $4,352 $4,367 $4,367 $4 000 $3 868 $3,991 $3,571 $2,957 $3,069 $3,200 $3,096 $3,102 $3,167 $3,269 S3,000 $2,000 $1,000 S 01 5P 40 4�' 1�' ti� 4P 15 hb 4� 4� 'Y9 ;LO titi titi ti� P 05 ry� ti� ry�'1 s0 ry,A �OtiO" vO,y'1 ry0,y'L vO.Y'y ryO.yP �,yh �Oti[5 �Oti1 vOy4 vO.yO �O,yO �.ti1 �.y'L �ryyb �O,1P ryO,�h ryOtiN 8 ORANGE COUNTY NA 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 pupil funding Chapel ,. . City Schools FY2026-27 Manager Continuation Request Difference Recommended $66,282,711 $67,838,023 ($1,555,312) w Chapel Hill-Carrboro City SchoolsExpansion FY2026-27 Manager Recommended Expansion Request Difference $66,282,711 $71,538,023 ($5,255,312) �1 9 ON NG COOUNA Y 6 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 MW • .. 7FY2026-,27ager Recommended Continuation Request Difference $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 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 11 ORA GE�COUN�TY 7 Slide#12 FY 2026-27 Operating Budget Introduction • General Fund Expenses County Department Changes to Base Budget $1,000,000 $500,000 G�5 001 G�5�\4Q,01P \e <1�0 GHQ �6 QQ \�O G�5�G5 G�5�� G�5 Qy\G0 O1P�05 Q\c�\G0�`&1\G<5 �IC,�1` GEC` �-�G S-C`�� OQ \O19 aP OJ O� QO AI G S �1 �10,JQ- 06, J �` F J P J 5 P 5 e- \J� Q- Q- Q- O p� , Q CpG\ Q� �� P �� O �5 A �5 QP QP �5 a 5 Q O F 5 5 5 Pa��y��Cj�O�QQOQ yP��<� ��J OJ��G,, SO , �� 4 CO ��\y�QP��pZ Gp e a��G�QQ��?Gy Q`�OG�P`'O�y`�P�O� $�500,000) P g`) G� er <e G �� G )J P� W� e1 P 5 J 1O P} s' G0 0q OJT ��P� O�Q �g 4rPO ��OJ �`yP� �a� Q �yQO G ��$C4,500,000) 12 NORTH CAROLINA 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 �1 13 ORANGE NTORrH COUNTY CA A 8 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 Slide#15 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 is ORAN GE�COUN�TY 9 Slide#16 FY 2026-27 Operating Budget Introduction • Property Tax Rate -Residual/Net General Fund Revenue Needed- $12,650,000 - Recommended Tax Rate Increase—3.75 cents per$100 of assessed Value Total Tax Rate - increases from 63.83 cents per$100 of value to 67.58 cents ORANGE COUNTY 16 NORTH C;AROLINA 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 17.80 87.80 8fi.79 8679 11.34 84.30 85.80 B5.60 85.80 85.80 85.80 83 77 85.04 53.72 83.59 81.87 80 67.58 63.83 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 Re. 10 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 ORANGE COUNTY 18 NORTH CAROLINA Slide#19 Budget Consideration Schedule FY2026-27 Budget Consideration Schedule 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 June4 Work Session • Resolution of Intent to Adopt June16 Business Meeting • Adoption of FY2026-27 Operating Budget and Capital Budget �1 19 ORANGE CA COUNTY 11 Slide#20 Questions? ORANGE COUNTY Nt)RI H C.Rl1ljI. 3. Public Comments Chair Hamilton read the public charge. A motion was made by Vice-Chair Fowler, seconded by Commissioner McKee, to open the public hearing on the budget and capital investment plan. VOTE: UNANIMOUS PUBLIC COMMENTS: J vonn Bever-Green encouraged the Board to preserve funding for the Chapel Hill Public Library. She said it is important to be able to tell what is true and real, and to resource this priority. Tracey Holsinger said cuts to the Department on Aging are affecting one of the least resourced populations in the county. She said losing a social worker will affect older adults' ability to access food, medications, and housing. She said the loss of evening hours will affect older adults who must work or depend on family for transportation. She said the increase in fees will disproportionately affect older adults. Sheila Evans spoke on the importance of the senior centers in her life. She said that everyone ages, and they can't do it alone. She said older adults need help just as children do. She asked the Board to keep the senior centers well-funded. Jackie Podger said balance in the budget is important. She noted that the budget allocates almost half towards education, and every other need must compete for the remaining 50%. She said that the older adult population is growing, and the school age population is declining. She said the budget should reflect that priority. She said a budget is a statement of values. Rachel Hawkins of the Friends of the Passmore Center introduced Alicia Reed, who works at the Hillsborough senior center. Rachel Hawkins read the following statement: "I am asking that you reconsider asking our seniors to be tasked with paying More for programs to come up with an additional 20,000. And to reconsider the sharing of a social worker for more than one location and to act as a receptionist at other times. Recently, it was stated that some commissioners stated that only Rich People attend the CENTERS! Have you stood in line with a diverse senior population waiting to get a meal? You provide bus service for the individuals who cannot afford gas to get a meal as they can't afford to buy groceries to accommodate their needs. Some can age in place, rather than use Medicaid for nursing homes (saving the COUNTY$$) 12 When I visit the Centers, I see people interacting with others of all diverse populations. Some attend each day to overcome isolation at home, and the need for a healthy place as economics hinder activities for them otherwise. Orange County is BLESSED to have a CARING staff at both Sr Centers,who look out for the best interest of the aged SS—100+.Also,you invested in a State-of-the-Art facility and they both are bursting at the seams for more space due to the increased number of SS+in our County.And that exceeds our youth in numbers. AND to cut staff is ludicrous, as the demands from the staff are increasing due to the number of participants. One idea is to charge Sr Ctr members who are Not Orange County residents a fee — however is feasible, as many people live in other counties and use Orange County SR Ctrs. Maybe that would incur some of the $20 K you want to find. Currently out of county members of the Centers pay nothing to join, and can participate in all but"toe nail care", meals, and Sportsplex membership rate. Some items in the overall budget may NOT need immediate FIXING in 2026-2027—so I urge you to look more into the NEEDS of this county as they relate to the welfare of its citizens, older and younger, rather than being in a rush for extras for county offices and vehicles. Yes our county can wait until just MAYBE next year's economy will warrant wants." William McLean is a member of the Friends of Orange County Public Library. He spoke about how reductions in funding for the library would impact residents. He said in difficult economic times, library use goes up, not down. He spoke about the impact of library services on his family during the pandemic, and how his family later worked with the library to raise funds for neurodivergent children. He said the library's deepest value isn't represented by numbers on a spreadsheet, but its human value in the people it serves and the community it builds. Om Dessai said he is an 8`"grader at Smith Middle. He praised the experiences he's had in CHCCS schools. He said well-funded schools provide a better learning experience. He said at his school,teachers support and encourage students. He said funding is needed for school technology, classroom supplies, mental health support, electives, clubs, and activities that help students feel included and connected. He said strong public schools give every student a chance to succeed. Lynn Carswell said she is a member of Orange County Public Schools Strong. She supported fully funding the continuation budget request. She said the submitted amendments show that the needs of teachers and schools were heard. She asked the Board to continue seeking greater efficiencies in administrative costs, fair property assessments, and reasonable tax hikes to support the schools in the community. Lisa Perry thanked the Board for listening to the public and submitting amendments to fully fund the continuation budget. She expressed sympathy for the financial difficulties facing the county. She asked that the Board fund capital improvements to school facilities. She said children cannot thrive in buildings that are neglected, overcrowded, or falling apart. She echoed the earlier comment asking the Board to minimize tax increases while protecting high quality education in the county. Zora and Ellie represented the perspectives of children in the school systems. Ellie said that teachers are concerned about the unmet needs of children who need additional assistance and instruction. Ellie said some of her teachers must drive an hour to work each day because they can't afford to live inside the district,and they must work multiple jobs to provide for their families.Zora echoed Ellie's remarks about teachers working multiple jobs, and said her favorite teacher was working three jobs to make ends meet. Both speakers requested that the Board increase funding for schools. Spring Dawson McClure said that people were at the meeting to advocate for a community where everyone has the basics to be healthy and happy. She said that schools are underfunded by the General Assembly, and teachers and staff deserve much more than what is in the schools' expansion budget requests. She said there is a link between teachers' well-being and student outcomes. She expressed 13 thanks for the submitted amendments to fully fund the continuation budget. She asked the Board to reconsider capital improvements and if they meet a critical need in the community. Jennifer Bremer asked the Board to reconsider cuts to the library. She spoke of the importance of the Chapel Hill Public Library in creating community conversations. She said the county should look for ways to strengthen unifying resources such as the Chapel Hill Public Library. Gail Edwards spoke on the importance of the senior centers in Orange County. She noted the large percentage of the population that is older adults, and the share of the population 0-17 years of age is decreasing. She expressed concerns about inequities in funding,and asked that the Board consider how to lessen impacts on the senior population. Judy McCord said after pandemic lockdowns, she was able to connect with folks at the Seymour Center to feel alive again, and to volunteer and make a difference in the community. She said the Department on Aging staff provide support for volunteers, and reductions mean staff will have to redirect their time away from those programs and services. She asked the Board to find a way to restore positions at the Department on Aging. Bob Ward spoke in support of the Chapel Hill Orange County Visitors Bureau. He said previously served on the bureau's board and that they do a wonderful job. He said he now volunteers at the Carolina basketball museum,where they get 35,000 to 40,000 visitors a year. He described how visitors contribute to the economy of the community. He said he and his wife are supporters of the library and spoke on the importance of funding library services. Karen Curtin is the President of the Friends of the Chapel Hill Public Library. She said the actual Chapel Hill Public Library budget is$4.3 million, not$4.9 million. She said the reduction of Orange County funds for the library would have a major impact on its operating budget. She said it would reduce services to the 40%of Orange County residents that live in Chapel Hill and the 15,000 library users who live outside of Chapel Hill. She said that the reason given for the funding cut is the new branch library in Carrboro, but that location has not reduced the usage of the Chapel Hill Public Library. She said when the southern branch was approved, residents were not told that the tradeoff would be funding elimination for the Chapel Hill Public Library. She said no one wants library services cut and that non-Chapel Hill residents don't consider the southern branch library a substitute and shouldn't have to pay a fee or lose access. She said she hoped the Board was listening to the public comments. Marjory Moe is the Vice-President of the Friends of the Chapel Hill Public Library. She is a retired librarian. She told a story from the Ashanti people of Ghana of a chief who would give his daughter's hand in marriage to the man who could bring her a magic fairy. The story was a metaphor for choosing which library is most deserving of funds. She said all three libraries are worthy because they serve all the citizens of Orange County. Christiana Williams asked the Board not to cut funding to the Chapel Hill Public Library. She spoke of the strengths of the Chapel Hill Public Library and its importance in the community. She said that residents were not informed that the opening of the Drakeford Library would result in the reduction of the Chapel Hill Public Library. She said a fee to access the library would fall hardest on residents who are least able to absorb another fee into their lives. Gregg Gerdau read the following statement: "Good evening. My name is Gregg Gerdau. I live in Orange County and many of you know me from my partnership with youth sports facilities. Tonight I'm here to speak against cuts to senior wellness programming, specifically the programs delivered through the Seymour and Passmore Centers. I want to ground this in language the county has already committed to publicly.The Orange County Health Department's stated mission is to promote and protect health, enhance quality of life, and preserve the environment for everyone in Orange County. Everyone.That word does not have an age limit. The two nonprofit organizations this county has partnered with to support its senior centers exist for the same reason.The Friends of the Robert and Pearl Seymour Center exists to promote the well-being of all 14 persons age 55 and older in Orange County.The Friends of the Jerry M. Passmore Center exists to promote the wellbeing of older adults through supplemental support for those same programs. These are not advocacy positions.These are the organizations' own stated purposes. When the county reduces funding for senior wellness programs, it is not just cutting a budget line. It is acting in direct contradiction to what its own health department says it stands for, and it is undermining the work of two nonprofit partners that exist specifically to support these programs. I'd also ask the Board to think about what the research tells us about senior wellness programs. Physical and social engagement for older adults reduces hospitalizations, delays cognitive decline, and keeps people living independently longer. Every dollar cut here has a downstream cost greater than financial. The question isn't whether we can afford these programs. It's whether we can afford to lose them. The seniors who use the Seymour and Passmore Centers are not edge cases.They are the population the Orange County Health Department exists to serve. Cutting their programs is not a fiscal decision. It is a values decision. And tonight I'm asking this Board to make a values decision that matches what Orange County says it stands for. Thank you." Allison Mahaley spoke in support of continuation funding for public schools. She expressed appreciation to the commissioners who filed amendments to try to keep the tax rate increase low. She described how difficult it was as a public school employee to afford to live in Orange County. She said that the state limits the county's ability to govern, and the federal government has failed to fund basic services. She said the county is in a difficult spot, but she hopes that the Board will pass a budget that includes robust funding for schools, but does not let the tax burden fall on those that will be most affected by it. Laura Horrigan read a statement on behalf of two school social workers at East Chapel Hill High School. The statement described the role of social workers in schools and their support for students and their families. The statement ended by thanking the Board for supporting schools. Ella Horrigan is a freshman at East Chapel Hill High School. She described the high-quality education and experiences she's received through CHCCS. She also spoke on the importance of mental health professionals in the school system and how they assisted a friend who was in a crisis. William Lerner is a 9th grade student at Carrboro High School. He said he excelled academically until he was diagnosed with a severe medical condition. He said student services helped him rebuild his life and regain the ability to read, write, and participate in school again. He said student services are the safety nets keeping vulnerable students afloat. He asked that the Board protect the budget for these positions. Tim Williams spoke on the importance of the library in the community. He said libraries are one of the ways we communicate values to children. He appreciated the difficult budget situation but said that the library was not the place to cut. Carmen Eliot spoke on the importance of funding the Chapel Hill Public Library. She described the information,art, and history she discovered through her library experiences. She said that the Chapel Hill Public Library serves between 1,200 and 1,800 people a day. She asked that the Board protect funding for the library. Latarndra Strong said she was happy to see people engaged in the civic process. She said commissioners can do two things, raise taxes, or cut budgets. She asked the Board to make reductions rather than increase taxes. She said everyone must be willing to sacrifice something to keep Medicaid and food and nutrition services for the community. She said if the county doesn't fund social services,the community will suffer. She said she supports libraries and senior centers, but that the county must consider what it is willing to sacrifice. She thanked Commissioners McKee, Portie-Ascott, and Hamilton for their proposed amendments to the budget. 15 Sandra Theard asked the Board to remember vulnerable populations in the community. She said the Board's decisions will affect people's ability to survive. She hoped that the Board will make the best choices for the community. James Merritt said he supported the full funding of the Orange County Visitors Center. He is a co- chair of the committee for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. He described the support of the visitors' center for his group. He described how visitors positively impact the economy of the county. Amy Rosenthal read the following statement: "I have been a Chapel Hill resident and taxpayer for 28 years. I love libraries. But our Chapel Hill library has an antisemitism problem. There are books in our library that erase Jews and Jewish history. They promote false, demonizing narratives against Jews and Israel. The collection for adults is bad enough, but the books targeting children are even worse. This is not a "both sides" issue. Lies and propaganda are not equal to truth.The Jewish community knows how easily lies turn into hate. And hate into violence. It's already happening. When some of us raised this issue, library staff kindly agreed to meet. We expressed our concerns. They told us to complete a form. We completed several. It went nowhere. Librarians are nice people who cannot be expected to be experts in everything. I would not expect them to understand the relentless and pervasive campaign of antisemitism that is often presented in a subtle way or via lies of omission. They may not be aware that those intent on the erasure of Jews and Jewish history have attained positions of power so that books that fit their false and demonizing narratives against Jews are given special awards. If library staff chooses books based on these awards and recommendations, they are being misled. I do understand that there is a demand for materials that demonize Jews, but should paid staff be party to such a demand? Why should the board continue to provide funding to a library that is promoting antisemitism?This is not the inclusion I would expect from such a significant public institution. Importantly, are there other instances of the library misusing public funds? Until these issues are addressed, the board is right to restrict or eliminate financial support. Thank you for taking this problem seriously." Josh Ravitch read the following statement: "Good evening, Commissioners. Sure,the CH Library honored Jewish American Heritage Month. Belatedly, starting the weekend of May 15, the month half over, UNC graduated and library empty, attention turned elsewhere. They knew May was Jewish American Heritage Month long before. I know because I alerted them. Sadly, I must alert you that it now appears library leadership are playing additional games that hide and minimize the impact of Jewish American Heritage Month. Photos that our group obtained show the initial display from May 15, when the JA display is adjacent to the Asian display,facing library patrons walking by [these were handed to the Board by the Deputy Clerk during Mr. Ravitch's statement].Additional photos were obtained during the May 22nd holiday weekend, and demonstrate that the Asian display is still facing patrons walking by. However the JA display has been rotated so that it's facing away from patron attention and walking paths, and is next to a display of"Staff Picks." One has to be looking for the display to see it. Note too that the Asian display has appropriately been up the whole month, as these displays typically are. I don't cry "antisemitism" as a habit...but the pattern here is troubling. Is library leadership counting on community pressure to get the$600K being discussed,while also covering for seeming antipathy towards the Jewish people? I also note that CH seems to believe that throwing money at all budget shortfalls is the only way to address the issues. I see the library as a town and county asset that used to collect fines for overdue books. Do I 16 believe this involved enormous budget-changing sums? No...But this helped convey the attitude that borrowers of books had some responsibility for upkeep of our library, and that raising taxes to provide funds is not the only option to consider. Thank you for your consideration..." Shereese Alston asked the Board not to raise taxes as it impacts people who have the least. The Tanner Family spoke on the importance of funding public schools and how investing in education leads to positive outcomes in the future. Ms.Tanner described how the long-term impacts will improve Orange County. Richard Ellington is a lifelong resident of Orange County. He described the support the Chapel Hill Public Library gave to the Chapel Hill Historical Society. He said that libraries are important to the community. He described his disappointment in the Drakeford Library and asked that funds be redirected to the Chapel Hill Public Library. He also spoke in support of the Orange County Visitors Bureau and the efforts of the bureau to build relationships for the county. Emily Hannon is a pediatrician. She spoke about the importance of a school social worker in helping children succeed in school. She said if school social workers are reduced, their important work will fall to teachers. Michael Crowell said he is a Carrboro resident and he spoke in support of the Chapel Hill Public Library. He said that the Carrboro branch library did not reduce usage of the Chapel Hill Public Library. He said when the branch was built,there was no suggestion that the county would eliminate support for the Chapel Hill Public Library. He criticized the decision-making process, and said that there should have been an open, deliberative process that involved all affected people. He asked the Board to support the Chapel Hill Public Library. Carl King expressed support for the hard work that the Board is doing. He said that he learned a lot about the burdens and worries in the community, and he thanked everyone for sharing their comments. He recognized that everyone will be helped and hurt by the budget. He said he has concerns about schools, the library, and social services. He reminded everyone to be kind to each other and to remember that everyone is carrying burdens, so we should shoulder them together. Ina Stern said that Carl King as well as many others expressed her thoughts and concerns. She expressed concern about cuts to the senior centers. She said that the percentage of the population that is over the age of 60 is going to continue to grow, but that the Department on Aging receives less than 1 percent of the county's budget. She said that the Department on Aging is a model for other counties in the state. She said that seniors want to stay in the community and contribute and she asked the Board to reconsider the cuts. Charlotte Holmes spoke in support of increases to the Longtime Homeowners Assistance program. She said a lot of elderly residents in the county are struggling. She wanted the county's investment in property revaluation consultants to lead to meaningful action and change. She said that higher value properties should be taxed fairly. She said the Board's work on property tax justice will help schools, libraries, and vulnerable residents. Laura Raffield expressed support for increased taxes to support schools, libraries, and senior services, while providing assistance to those who can't afford to pay property taxes. Brian Driska said the CHCCS district is a draw for young families. He said that families in the district recently learned that some of the schools may be closed. He said residents have borne the effect of increased property taxes through increased mortgage costs and increased rents,which make it harder on families. He said the current federal government and state legislature are intent in leaving the public school system to fend for itself. He said if schools are not funded, the economics of Orange County will result in families leaving. He asked the Board to fully fund the continuation budget and the pay-go capital funding. 17 Brian Link asked the Board to support the public schools. He described how CHCCS made many millions of dollars in cuts and is planning to close a school. He encouraged the Board to pass the proposed amendments and make the community a wonderful place. Kaia Findlay spoke in support of the Chapel Hill Public Library. She described how the library contributes to her professional and personal lives. She said it has been helpful to hear the stories and see the faces of those who will be affected by the costs of these decisions. H'tera Ktul spoke in support of the Chapel Hill Public Library. She said cuts to the library would be a cowardly act. She said the library provides an important place for people to live and thrive. She said it was good to hear from so many residents. Dave Gephart spoke in favor of the Orange County Visitors Bureau. He described the various ways the Visitors Bureau contributes to the economy of the county and asked the Board to reconsider cuts. He said it is important to strengthen economic development and the Visitors Bureau. Lou Capitanio suggested privatizing Orange County Solid Waste to solve some of the county's problems. Lyndi Schilling spoke in support of the Chapel Hill Public Library. She made suggestions for ways that the Chapel Hill Public Library and Drakeford Library could work together to both succeed. Akshay Pendyal asked the Board to fully fund the continuation budget and the pay-go contribution for capital needs at the schools. He described how CHCCS already made budget cuts and that further cuts would be difficult. He said that deliberately foregoing a property tax increase is shortsighted because schools are not entitlements. He pointed out that children who lost their homes during Tropical Storm Chantal received assistance with food and shelter from school social workers. He said that children are assured two meals each day from school cafeterias when they otherwise might go without. He said that schools support entire ecosystems. He explained how important the pay-go funding is for school capital and urged the Board not to cut it. Andal Narayanan spoke in support of the Chapel Hill Public Library. He described the impact the 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 from a friend who could not be present, Alex Haswell, who also felt strongly that the library should be fully funded. Thomas Jepsen from the Chapel Hill Historical Society spoke in favor of funding for the Orange County Visitors Bureau. He agreed with earlier comments regarding the support from the visitor's bureau for the veteran's memorial. He said through a partnership, the Chapel Hill Historical Society created walking tours of downtown and helped document the history of downtown Chapel Hill. He said this kind of partnership important for creating economic growth and development. He said money spent on publicity is investing in the future. He said it can help plant seeds for future development and grow the economy. Maria Palmer spoke in support of the senior center, library, housing assistance, and funding for home repairs. She said that the Board should solve the problem of properties not being taxed at the value they sold at. She said cuts will cost more than they will save the county. She said without social workers, children will not have the support they need in school. She said when people can go to the library, it helps them. She said it's an investment in the community to fully fund schools. Kimberly Sanchez with Community Home Trust thanked the Board for their continued partnership. She described the creation of the CHT and the accomplishments the organization has recently made. She said they are advocating for an increase in operating support for the organization and that expenses have increased while funding remained flat. She said that an increase in support protects permanent affordable housing, preserving public investment, and ensuring members of Orange County continue to have access to affordable homeownership opportunities Kari Hamel asked the Board in the next three years to review the structural deficit in Orange County Schools supplements,that is expected to grow and is below market rate for all adjoining counties. 18 She asked for the Board to speak to other counties with more than one public school system for advice. She expressed concern about the actions the Board might take that have a negative effect on enrollment. A motion was made by Commissioner McKee, seconded by Vice-Chair Fowler,to close the public hearing on the budget and capital investment plan. VOTE: UNANIMOUS The budget public hearing portion of the meeting ended, and the Board recessed for a 5-minute break. The meeting was reconvened at 9:41 pm, and the Board transitioned to a work session. 4. Board of Social Services—Appointment Discussion The Board discussed an appointment to the Board of Social Services. BACKGROUND: The Board of Social Services is charged with selecting the Director of Social Services and advising the County and municipalities on ways to improve the social conditions of the community. It also consults with the Director of Social Services to solve problems and to plan the budget. The Board of County Commissioners appoints one (1) Orange County resident and one (1) County Commissioner to this Board. The following individual is recommended for Board consideration: NAME POSITION DESCRIPTION TYPE OF EXPIRATION APPOINTMENT TERM DATE Patricia BOCC Citizen Appointee First Full Term 06/30/2029 Garavaglia If the individuals listed above are appointed, no vacancies remain. Tara May introduced the item. The Board agreed by consensus to appoint the recommended applicant. 5. Chapel Hill—Orange County Visitors Bureau Advisory Board—Appointment Discussion The Board discussed an appointment to the Chapel Hill—Orange County Visitors Bureau Advisory Board. BACKGROUND:The Chapel Hill-Orange County Visitors Bureau Advisory Board is charged with developing and coordinating visitor services in Orange County. It also implements marketing programs that enhance the economic activity and quality of life in the community. The Board of County Commissioners appoints all seventeen (17) members, with representatives from specific entities and fields. The following individuals are recommended for Board consideration: 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) NOTE:There are no other applicants eligible for these positions. If the individuals listed above are appointed,the following vacancy remains: POSITION EXPIRATION DATE VACANCY INFORMATION DESIGNATION Chapel Hill 06/30/2026 Vacant since 05/07/2025 Downtown Partnership Staff(Ex Officio) NOTE:There are no applicants eligible for this vacancy. Tara May introduced the item. The Board agreed by consensus to appoint the recommended applicants. 6. Orange County Broadband Task Force—Appointment Discussion The Board discussed an appointment to the Orange County Broadband Task Force. BACKGROUND:The Orange County Broadband Task Force is charged to: 1. Discuss broadband solutions that will improve the quality of high-speed internet services to Orange County residents, and 2. Recommend a plan to the Board of Orange County Commissioners to expand reliable high-speed internet services to all county residents and businesses. 3. Update and track broadband coverage needs as State and Federal program awards are made. 4. Consult with County staff on how to best communicate information related to broadband coverage to other residents. The Board of County Commissioners appoints five (5) Orange County residents to At-Large positions. The following position is presented for Board consideration: NAME POSITION DESCRIPTION TYPE OF EXPIRATION APPOINTMENT TERM DATE Orange County At-Large First Full Term 09/30/2028 Resident Tara May introduced the item. She said that Commissioners Greene and McKee indicated that the work of the Broadband Task Force was almost done and that they may not need to fill the vacancy. 20 Commissioner McKee said that was correct. Adjournment A motion was made by Commissioner McKee, seconded by Commissioner Carter, to adjourn the meeting at 9:42 p.m. VOTE: UNANIMOUS Jean Hamilton, Chair Recorded by Laura Jensen, Clerk to the Board Submitted for approval by Laura Jensen, Clerk to the Board