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HomeMy WebLinkAbout111714mHARNETT COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS Minutes of Regular Meeting November 17, 2014 The Harnett County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Monday, November 17, 2014, in the Commissioners Meeting Room, County Administration Building, 102 East Front Street, Lillington, North Carolina. Members present: Staff present: Joe Miller, Chairman Gary House, Vice Chairman Jim Burgin, Commissioner Beatrice B. Hill, Commissioner Gordon Springle, Commissioner Tommy Burns, Harnett County Manager Joseph Jeffries, Deputy County Manager Dwight Snow, County Attorney Kimberly Honeycutt, Finance Officer Margaret Regina Wheeler, Clerk Chairman Miller called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm. Commissioner Hill led the pledge of allegiance and invocation. N.C. Representative Marvin W. Lucas presented the Order of the Long Leaf Pine Award to Commissioner Hill. Commissioner Hill addressed the group. Chairman Miller called for additions and deletions to the published agenda. Commissioner Springle requested to move up on the agenda the consideration of the Resolution concerning the Management Services Agreement implementation between Harnett Health System, Inc. and Cumberland County Hospital System, Inc., d/b/a Cape Fear Valley Health System. Commissioner Burgin moved to approve the revised agenda. Vice Chairman House seconded the motion which passed unanimously. Commissioner Burgin moved to approve the following items listed on the consent agenda. Commissioner Springle seconded the motion which passed unanimously. 1. Minutes: November 3, 2014 regular meeting October 28, 2014 special session 2. Budget Amendments: 152 Health Department Code 110-7600-441.60-45 Drugs 110-0000-331.76-14 Maternal Health 418 decrease 418 decrease November 17, 2014, Regular Meeting Minutes Harnett County Board of Commissioners Page 1 of 8 153 Health Department Code 110-7600-441.58-01 Training 110-7600-441.64-25 Books & Publications 110-0000-334.76-12 STD Prevention 154 Airport Jetport Rehab & Strength CP 1303 Code 302-8300-406.54-01 Construction 302-8300-406.45-80 Contingency 155 Planning Services Code 110-7210-465.11-00 110-7200-465.11-00 110-7210-465.22-00 110-7200-465.22-00 110-7210-465.23-00 110-7200-465.23-00 110-7210-465.26-08 110-7200-465.26-08 110-7210-465.25-10 110-7200-465.25-10 Salary & Wages — AMPI Salary & Wages — Regular FICA Tax Expense — AMPI FICA Tax Expense — Regular Retirement — AMPI Retirement — Regular Workman's Comp — AMPI Workman's Comp — Regular Unemployment Unemployment 500 increase 500 increase 1,000 increase 230,291 decrease 230,291 increase 2,132 increase 2,132 decrease 163 increase 163 decrease 151 increase 151 decrease 138 increase 138 decrease 21 increase 21 decrease 157 WIA Youth Program Code 234-0000-331.74-05 Harnett In School Youth Program 15,000 decrease 234-0 000-331.74-07 Harnett Out of School Youth Prog. 15,000 increase 158 Cooperative Extension Code 110-7300-465.32-30 110-7300-465.32-32 110-0000-399.00-00 162 Transportation Code 110-4650-410.12-00 110-4650-410.22-00 110-0000-334.55-02 110-0000-334.55-05 110-0000-334.77-04 Family & Consumer Science (FCS) 200 increase Comm., Rural Development (CRD) 1,945 increase Fund Balance Appropriated 2,145 increase Salary & Wages Part Time FICA Tax Expense EDTAP Transportation Plan RGP Transportation Work First Transportation 3. Tax refunds, rebates and releases (Attachment 1) 4. Resolution To Honor Commissioner Beatrice B. Hill (Attachment 2) 5. Resolution To Honor Commissioner Gary A. House (Attachment 3) 16,180 decrease 1,334 decrease 8,300 decrease 41,427 decrease 32,213 increase November 17, 2014, Regular Meeting Minutes Harnett County Board of Commissioners Page 2 of 8 6. Cooperative Extension requested permission to accept grant renewal for Child Care Block Grant from Child Care Networks, Inc. in the amount of $33,673 for FY 2014- 2015. 7. Harnett County Public Library requested approval of a new contract between the Harnett County Library and the affiliate and branch libraries. The Library Board of Trustees, the Anderson Creek Primary School, and the Towns of Angier, Coats, Dunn and Erwin have each signed the contract. The existing contract needed updating to clarify the roles and responsibilities between the County Library and the affiliate and branch libraries. 8. Proclamation — National Hospice Palliative Care Month — November 2014 9. Emergency Services requested permission to apply for the 2015 Emergency Management Performance Grant. This is a federal grant administered by the State that is available to local governments to assist in the cost of developing and maintaining a comprehensive emergency management program. These funds are received annually and are included as part of Emergency Services operating budget. 10. Resolution to cancel the November 25, 2014 Special Session of the Harnett County Board of Commissioners. (Attachment 4) 11 General Services requested approval of a letter of support for Johnston County Industries (JCI)/Harnett Production Enterprise's (HPE) 5310 Program Application for Purchase of Service to supplement direct costs associated with transportation of HPE passengers. Mr. Snow presented for consideration a Resolution concerning the Management Services Agreement (MSA) implementation between Harnett Health System, Inc. (HHS) and Cumberland County Hospital System, Inc., d/b/a Cape Fear Valley Health System (Cape Fear). He noted as part of the agreement between HHS and Cape Fear, which was effective November 3, 2014, the two local governments involved with HHS; the City of Dunn and Harnett County, were asked to be a part of a resolution that would approve the MSA amongst other things. Mr. Snow previously summarized the agreement and proposed resolution at a work session of the Board where copies of both were distributed for review. During that meeting, commissioners directed that the agreement and resolution be added to the upcoming agenda as well as requesting representative from HHS and Cape Fear come and present the resolution and answer any questions. Attorney Ben Thompson of Wyrick Robbins first said it was a privilege to know and work with Commissioner Hill and thanked her for her years of service. Mr. Thompson urged the Board to approve the proposed resolution before them for consideration. He recognized present to answer any questions and demonstrate support of the resolution HHS Chairman and Campbell Vice - President Dr. Ron Maddox, Campbell President Dr. Jerry Wallace, Campbell Vice President of November 17, 2014, Regular Meeting Minutes Harnett County Board of Commissioners Page 3 of 8 Finance Jim Roberts, Cape Fear Chief Executive Officer Mike Nagowski, HHS's new President Dan Weatherly and Cape Fear Director of Government Relations Breeden Blackwell. Mr. Thompson summarized that they are asking for the County's consent to the execution of the new MSA between HHS and Cape Fear as well as the amended articles of incorporation which will allow for one person to be nominated by Cape Fear to serve on the HHS Board. As part of the MSA, Mr. Thompson noted they are also asking the County to approve the creation of a new entity (Newco) in the future for the purposes of transferring all of the tangible and intangible assets, except the real property and improvements associated with Betsy Johnson Regional Hospital and Central Harnett Hospital, to the Newco. Under there terms of the MSA, Cape Fear has the option to purchase forty-nine percent (49%) of that entity and eventually to purchase all of that entity. He stressed that at no time would the real estate consisting of the Betsy Johnson Regional Hospital facility and Central Harnett Hospital facility be included in the transfer to the Newco as they will remain the property of HHS subject to the various restrictive covenants of record. Mrs. Thompson mentioned the 2005 Memorandum of Understanding between Harnett County and the City of Dunn along with WakeMed that created the HHS. Mr. Thompson noted the County of Harnett, through the Harnett Forward Together Committee (HFTC), donated over 20 acres of land for the construction of the new Central Harnett facility which reverts back to HFTC if it ceases to be a healthcare facility. He gave an overview of the process that lead to the MSA with Cape Fear and highlighted some factors supporting that decision. The MSA is a ten year agreement with one year renewal terms thereafter. Mr. Thompson continued to discuss terms of the MSA including a lease obligation, management fees and a $10 Million line of credit made available to HHS. Mr. Thompson clarified the request for endorsement was not a legal requirement however all involved active participates wanted this to be completely transparent. Mr. Nagowski spoke in favor of this request. He said Cape Fear is excited and proud to have been selected as a partner with HHS. Mr. Nagowski said they understand how important it is for healthcare to continue to grow and thrives and believe healthcare should be local. Mr. Nagowski talked about keeping Harnett County citizens in Harnett County for healthcare, the expansion of services, recruitment of doctors and EMS transport. Dr. Wallace thanked Mrs. Hill for being his commissioner, for standing for what is right for Harnett County and for supporting Campbell University. Dr. Wallace asked commissioner to support this recommendation as he believes this new relationship will be good for the County and Campbell University. Dr. Wallace said within four years Campbell University will have more than 2000 health professional students studying in Harnett County. Vice Chairman House confirmed that if the 20 acres of land donated for the construction of the new Central Harnett facility reverted back to HFTC so would the USDA debt. Mr. Thompson responded that the County has no financial interest as far as the operation of the hospital itself. Vice Chairman House also inquired about meeting the obligation of the job creation grant. November 17, 2014, Regular Meeting Minutes Harnett County Board of Commissioners Page4of8 Commissioner Burgin moved to approve the Resolution concerning the Management Services Agreement implementation between Harnett Health System, Inc. and Cumberland County Hospital System, Inc., d/b/a Cape Fear Valley Health System. Commissioner Hill seconded the motion which passed unanimously. (Attachment 5) Mr. Burns presented the Proclamation proclaiming November 2014 as National Hospice Palliative Care Month to Transitions LifeCare's Harnett County Advisory Committee member Cramer Walker. Mrs. Walker thanked commissioners for recognizing the important work of the Hospice staff and volunteers and also for bringing attention for those who need treatment for terminal illness. Chairman Miller presented a resolution to Commissioner Beatrice B. Hill honoring her service and contributions as Commissioner of Harnett County. Chairman Miller also presented Commissioner Hill with a Harnett County plaque. Chairman Miller presented a resolution to Vice Chairman House honoring his service and contributions as Commissioner of Harnett County. Chairman Miller also presented Commissioner House with a Harnett County plaque. Former Commissioners Dan Andrews and Tim McNeill spoke of their time serving with Commissioners Hill and House and the progress made in the County. Chairman Miller opened the floor for informal comments by the public, allowing up to 3 minutes for each presentation up to 30 minutes. — Paul Long of 601 Old Buies Creek Road in Angier said we have got to build schools. Mr. Long said we are going backwards and he hasn't seen the progress he would have like to have seen out of this Board the last two terms. Mr. Long said county employees are under stress, they need a raise, they need good healthcare and they need to be looked after. He said we only fiscally responsible when it comes to the poor. Mr. Long said we need to get back to the basics and get back to the people. — Randy Rogers of 904 Hillside Drive in Lillington thanked Commissioners Hill and House for their sacrifices made for all. Mr. Rogers said the fight for open government will continue and the attempt to conceal, hide and destroy the truth is not going to occur. He said public records belong to all. — Sharlene Jones of 2370 Old Buies Creek Road said citizens need to understand there is going to big changes, not good changes. She said people need to pray to save this County. — Daniel Glover of Old State Road in Coats said the loss of Harnett County Manager Tommy Burns is a devastating blow to the county. He said not many county managers in North Carolina will want to come serve in Harnett County now. Mr. Glover said politics plays a big role in what is going on in this county but there is going to be even more transparency than before going forward. Commissioner Hill recognized in the audience former Commissioners Dan Andrews and Tim McNeill as well as Commissioner -elect Barbara McKoy. Commissioner Hill addressed the group. November 17, 2014, Regular Meeting Minutes Harnett County Board of Commissioners Page 5 of 8 Darvin Springfield, Transit Services Manager, petitioned the Board for a public hearing on the Rural Operating Assistance Program (ROAP) application and the FY 2016 Community Transportation Program Application (HARTS) application to be submitted to the NC Department of Transportation. Mr. Springfield reported the ROAP funds are utilized to for the operating costs of trips and other transportation services. Funds will be utilized to provide transportation services when there are no other available funds. Rural Operating Assistance Program includes the following programs: D Elderly and Disabled Transportation Assistance Program (EDTAP) provides operating assistance funds for transporting elderly and disabled citizens - $77,099; and D Employment Transportation Assistance Program (EMP) provides transportation for the general public to employment locations, employment training, and any other employment related destinations - $32,313; and D Rural General Public Program (RGP) funds are intended to provide transportation for individuals of the County who do not have a human service agency or organization that will pay for their transportation services - $102,506 and requires a 10% match. Mr. Springfield reported the FY 2016 Community Transportation Program (HARTS) provides assistance to coordinate existing transportation programs operating in Harnett County as well as provides transportation options and services for the community within the service area. These services are currently provided using demand response and subscription routes. The 5311 Community Transportation Program intends to enhance the access of people in non -urbanized areas to health care, shopping, education, employment, public services and recreation. Section 5311 assists in the maintenance, development, improvement and use of public transportation systems in non -urbanized areas. Requested funding amounts are as follows: D $231,627 for Administrative with a local match of $34,745; and D $113,000 for Capital (vehicle and other) with a local match of $11,300. Mr. Springfield requested approval of both of these applications and the resolution to apply for these funds. Mr. Springfield asked the public to fill out a Public Involvement Voluntary Title VI form made available during the meeting. Mr. Springfield responded that General Services has applied for these grants fund for the last nineteen years. Chairman Miller called to order a public hearing on the matter and opened the meeting for comments from the public. Seeing no one move, Chairman Miller closed the public hearing. Commissioner Springle moved to approve the applications for both grants and resolution. Commissioner Burgin seconded the motion which passed unanimously. (Attachment 6) Mark Locklear, Planning Services Director, petitioned the Board for a public hearing on proposed text amendments, Harnett County Unified Development Ordinance, Revisions to Article V (Use Regulations), Section 7.5.6 (Firing Ranges). On behalf of the Planning Department, Mr. Locklear thanked Commissioners Hill and House for their years of service and said it has been a pleasure serving them throughout the years. Mr. Locklear stated the proposed text amendment was developed to address the use of commercially operating firing ranges and November 17, 2014, Regular Meeting Minutes Harnett County Board of Commissioners Page 6 of 8 the effects of such ranges upon adjacent and surrounding communities. Mr. Locklear stressed this amendment is solely intended to be applied to commercial operating ranges only. The private use of firing ranges located on residential properties is not affected by these regulations. This amendment is to allow for safe operation of such ranges and help protect the adjacent properties and the health, safety and welfare for Harnett County Citizens. Mr. Locklear noted Commissioners Miller and Springle served on this steering committee which also included Board of Adjustment members, existing range owners and citizens. He said this was a long process but a good learning experience. Mr. Locklear thinks they have put together some successful and innovative thinking when it comes to regulations for firing ranges. He noted they started this process in April 2013 and thirteen drafts were prepared throughout the process. Mr. Locklear said they learned that one size does not fit all when it comes to gun ranges. The committee ended up taking the approach that it didn't matter the piece of land, it just mattered to design it using whatever requirements were made available to them to make it safe and then go before the Board of Adjustment. Mr. Locklear reported staff hired a private range consultant to evaluate their regulations and to look at what they have put in place. They also asked the consultants to go out and look at some of our existing ranges and give some suggestions on possibly making those ranges safer. Mr. Locklear said staff wants to make sure the public knows exactly what they are doing when it comes to text amendments and give them an opportunity to comment. He said staff is trying harder to get the word out on the website and using social media. Mr. Locklear reported that the Harnett County Planning Board tabled the text amendment on October 6, 2014 for further information, from staff, on insurance liability and professional cost related to engineers, environmental, range design, etc. On November 3, 2014, after discussion of the above reference issues, the Harnett County Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend approval of the text amendment application. Mr. Locklear also shared a Suggested Statement of Consistency, which was provided to commissioners at the meeting and is required for text amendments. Randy Baker, Senior Zoning Inspector, thanked the committee members for their assistance and cooperation. Mr. Baker emphasized that a lot of the proposed regulations will put emphasis on the conditional use approval process. All firing ranges must receive a conditional use approval from the Harnett County Board of Adjustments, meet any condition that they may place on it as well as meet the design requirements stated in the proposed amendment. Mr. Baker said this is very technical and to ensure the safety and the well-being of the citizens they have incorporated that the professional design element must be added to the design of these ranges. He said they learned a firing range is designed for the discharge of firearms not for the explosion of explosive devices which is an entirely separate range. Mr. Baker said this document will limit the ability to explode things on a firing range. He noted the addition of zoning compliance inspections where staff will perform an annual inspection to verify the range is continuing to be operated in the manner it was approved in. Mr. Baker said they went through the amortization process for existing ranges effective upon adoption of this ordinance. Commissioners Miller and Springle November 17, 2014, Regular Meeting Minutes Harnett County Board of Commissioners Page 7 of 8 agreed this process was a good community effort, they learned a lot and think it was a great way to handle this situation. Chairman Miller called to order a public hearing on the matter and opened the meeting for comments from the public. — Paul Long of 601 Old Buies Creek Road in Angier said he has had guns all his life and voiced concern regarding more regulations. He said he believes this is a good ordinance but said the citizens need to watch out because they are not always getting the whole truth. Seeing no one else move, Chairman Miller closed the public hearing. Chairman Miller moved to approved the proposed text amendment citing the requested text amendment is compatible with Harnett County's regulatory documents and would promote public health, safety, and general welfare of the County, as well as maintain orderly and compatible land use and development patterns and encourage environmentally responsible development practices, as described within the facility design and environmental management sections of the document. Commissioner Springle seconded the motion which passed unanimously. County Manager Mr. Burns presented the following reports: - Veterans Affairs Activities Report — October 2014 - Interdepartmental Budget Amendments - Planning Services report — October 2014 Mr. Burns noted that the Harnett County Board of Elections is currently working on certifying the bond election results which will cause this Board to approve a resolution accepting those bond results as required to continue this bond process. Mr. Burns announce the retirement of Assistant Emergency Management Director Beverly Williams and School Superintendent Tom Frye. Mr. Burns also noted that the Board had recently received his resignation effective December 1St. Mr. Burns said this was the most mentally labor intensive decision he has ever had to make but believes it's a good professional opportunity for him to continue in his career. Chairman Miller called for any new business. Commissioner House addressed the group. There was no need for closed session. Chairman Miller reminded the group of the reception immediately following the meeting. Commissioner Springle moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:57 pm. Commissioner Hill seconded the motion which passed unanimously. Joe et Regina - ler, Clerk 17, 2014, Regular Meeting Minutes County Board of Commissioners Page 8 of 8