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HomeMy WebLinkAbout041426 mHARNETT COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS Regular Meeting Minutes April 14, 2026 The Harnett County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at 9:00 am, in the Commissioners Meeting Room, Harnett County Resource Center and Library, 455 McKinney Parkway, Lillington, North Carolina. Members present: Duncan E. Jaggers, Chairman Matthew B. Nicol, Vice Chairman Barbara McKoy, Commissioner William Morris, Commissioner W. Brooks Matthews, Commissioner Staff present: Brent Trout, County Manager Dwight Snow, County Attorney Kimberly Honeycutt, Finance Officer Melissa Capps, Clerk Chairman Jaggers called the meeting to order at 9:00 am. Commissioner McKoy led the Pledge of Allegiance and provided the invocation. Amy Noel, Veterans Services Assistant Director, presented information regarding Harnett County Heroes Remembrance recognition. We are recognizing and honoring veterans that appear on our Wall of Heroes. These individuals have received awards for acts of individual heroism, not as a unit. Ms. Noel read Private First Class Christopher W. Hankins' citation. Chairman Jaggers called for any additions or deletions to the published agenda. Vice Chairman Nicol made a motion to approve the agenda as published. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Matthews and carried unanimously. Commissioner Matthews made a motion to approve the consent agenda. The motion was seconded by Vice Chairman Nicol and carried unanimously. The following items were on the consent agenda: A. Special Meeting Minutes of March 31, 2026 B. Regular Meeting Minutes of April 7, 2026 Vice Chairman Nicol read the Line Worker Appreciation Day Proclamation. Harnett County Board of Commissioners proclaimed Saturday, April 18, 2026 as "Line Worker Appreciation Day" in Harnett County. Vice Chairman Nicol presented a framed copy of the resolution to a team of line workers from Duke Energy. Harnett County Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting Minutes April 14, 2026 Page 1 of 10 Coley Price, Deputy County Manager, Sarah Arbour, Planner II and Barry Blevins, General Services Director provided an update on Carolina Across 100 Affordable Housing Program. Information included: • Our State, Our Homes o Partnering to Address Affordable Housing Needs in North Carolina • Sandhills Affordable Housing Collective Team 10 • Our Housing Reality: 2019 • Our Housing Reality: 2026 • Our Housing Reality: 2019-2026 Comparison • Our Housing Market Reality • Our Growing County o Population & Projections 1990-2038 • Age Distribution • Recorded Major Subdivisions • Median Home Sale Price 2022-2026 o Wake Halo Counties • Median Home Sale Price Percent Increase 2022-2026 • Our Growing State • Where are people Migrating to NC From? 2013-2017 • Where are people Migrating to NC From • Affordable Housing: A problem at the National Scale • Contributing Factors • What we mean when we talk about "Affordable Housing" • Making the Numbers Work for Affordable Housing is Hard • Affordable Housing in Harnett • Affordable Housing Plan Models • How do we Balance this Growth? • Board's visions and all plans come together • Strategic Approaches to Affordable Housing Brent Trout, County Manager, provided an update on Office of State Budget and Management (OSBM) Funding. Harnett County received grant money from North Carolina for a variety of uses. The following information is an update on each OSBM grant we have received. Grant 20281 - Various Parks and Recreation Projects - $630,000 The funding was utilized for various parks projects to include Patriots Park Restrooms, Boone Trail Monument/Entry Renovation, Benhaven Community Park Ballfield Fencing Improvements, Anderson Creek Mountain Bike Trails, Benhaven walking trails. The majority of the projects are completed and the funds will be expended before the deadline. Harnett County Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting Minutes April 14, 2026 Page 2 of 10 Grant 20282 - Shawtown Playground - $100,325 The funding was utilized to construct a playground at Shawtown Community Center. The project is complete and grant is closed. Grant 20283 - Various Sub -Recipients Provided Funding- $1,500,000 The grant funds were provided to various sub -recipients in Harnett County. The sub -recipients were county departments and other non-profit agencies. The spending deadline is June 30, 2026. No extension of this deadline is expected. There is currently approximately $150,878 that has not been spent as of March 31, 2026. The largest sub -recipient grant outstanding is $100,000 to Averasboro Battlefield Commission. I will be reaching out to those that still have funds to spend regarding their plan. If they do not have a plan to spend the money by the deadline, we will request the money be returned and reallocated to a different project prior to the deadline. Grant 20284 - Body Scanner for Sheriff s Office - $166,000 The grant funds were utilized to purchase a body scanner for scanning people for weapons or other contraband before they enter the detention center population. The scanner was purchased and is currently in use at the detention center. The project is complete and the grant will be closed out by June 30, 2026. Grant 20285 - Various Sub -Recipients Provided Funding- $1,150,000 The grant funds were provided to various sub -recipients in Harnett County. The sub -recipients were county departments and other non-profit agencies. The spending deadline is June 30, 2026. An extension of this deadline has been requested and is expected to be granted but we are still planning to expend what can be prior to that date in case an extension is not provided. There is currently approximately $153,010 that has not been spent as of March 31, 2026. The largest sub -recipient grant outstanding is $100,000 to Averasboro Battlefield Commission. I will be reaching out to those that still have funds to spend regarding their plan. If they do not have a plan to spend the money by the deadline, we will request the money be returned and reallocated to a different project prior to the deadline. If an extension is granted to Harnett County we will extend the deadline to the sub recipients. Grant 20286 - Generator Purchase for Detention Center - $2,700,000 The grant funds were provided to the Sheriff's Office to purchase and install a new standby generator that will power the entire detention center in the event of a power outage. The current generator only powers the 911 Communications Center. The project is currently in design with Dewberry Engineering. A recommendation regarding the generator to purchase and design for installation is expected on May 22, 2026. The generator will then be ordered after that date. OSBM has stated that as long as the funds are encumbered the project meets the spending deadline of June 30, 2026. We have requested an extension be provided for this project as well.. Grant 20287 - Johnson Farm Purchase - $1,600,000 Harnett County Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting Minutes April 14, 2026 Page 3 of 10 The grant funds were provided to Hamett County to assist in the purchase of the Johnson Farm in Harnett County. The owners of the farm decided not to sale the land to Harnett County. The County has identified other parks projects that could utilize this funding but in order to do a technical correction to the funding must be approved by the General Assembly. Representative Penny has agreed to submit the required technical correction for approval. The technical correction will be submitted when the General Assembly comes back into session in April. Once the technical correction is approved then the Parks and Recreation Department can utilize the funds. The deadline for expending the funds for this grant is June 30, 2026. Some of the funds can be encumbered quickly with purchases but not all funds will be able to be used in the short time frame. We have requested an extension for this grant. Extensions for this grant period are expected but we intend to expend funds as soon as the technical correction is approved. Kimberly Honeycutt, Finance Officer, provided an update on American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA) Funding. Ms. Honeycutt reviewed the total ARPA allocation, ARPA eligible projects and displaced funding. A copy of the update is attached. (Attachment 1) Ms. Arbour provided a briefing on the upcoming public hearing scheduled for April 20, 2026 for PLAN2602-0001 Landowner / Applicant: Delores Faye Baker / SecureStore LLC; 4.6 +/- acres; Pin #'s 9594-26-6341.000 & 9594-26-4077.000; From RA-20R to Commercial Zoning District; Anderson Creek Township; Off NC 24/87 (on Wilson Drive). Janice Lane, Human Resources Director, reviewed a request for the adoption of a new Paid Parental Leave Policy (this item was previously tabled at the March 30, 2026 Board Meeting). The proposed policy would provide up to four (4) weeks of Paid Parental Leave for recovery and/or bonding. To be eligible for Paid Parental Leave, the individual must be a full-time permanent employee and experience a Qualifying Event. Qualifying Event: 1. Birth or stillbirth of a child; 2. Legal spouse of the birth mother; 3. Legal adoption, foster placement, or custody placement of a child under the age of eighteen (18). If approved by the Board, this policy shall apply to Qualifying Events occurring on or after June 1, 2026. Vice Chairman Nicol made a motion to approve the new Paid Parental Leave Policy. Commissioner Matthews seconded the motion and the motion passed unanimously. (Attachment 2) Zane Campbell, Veterans Treatment Court Director, discussed funding of Veterans Treatment Court from Harnett County, Lee County, Johnston County, and Wake County. Funding requests from each county is $150,000. The requests for funding from Lee County, Johnston County and Wake County are still fluid. Our DA and Judge Wood have been speaking with Lee County and have requested a little bit of an amendment; they are looking at doing a one year trial and go from there. I do meet with Johnston County next week. Harnett County Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting Minutes April 14, 2026 Page 4 of 10 Vice Chairman Nicol made a motion to accept the request from Veterans Treatment Court for us to request $150,000 from each participating County. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Morris and carried unanimously. Mr. Campbell also reviewed a request to apply for and accept if awarded for the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA25) Veterans Treatment Court Program Grant. No match required if awarded. Vice Chairman Nicol made a motion to approve Veterans Treatment Court to apply for and accept if awarded the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA25) Veterans Treatment Court Program Grant. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Matthews and carried unanimously. Commissioner McKoy asked how many Veteran Treatment Courts are in North Carolina. Mr. Campbell replied I believe 8 or 9. Commissioner McKoy stated we were the first to organize. Christopher Appel, Senior Staff Attorney, reviewed a request for the adoption of a Resolution to Authorize Execution of Opioid Settlements. The Resolution authorizes the County Manager to execute the necessary documents to enter into the Remnant Defendants Settlement and to provide such documents to Rubris, the Implementation Administrator. Commissioner McKoy made a motion to adopt a Resolution to Authorize Execution of Opioid Settlements. The motion was seconded by Vice Chairman Nicol and carried unanimously. (Attachment 3) Attorney Appel also reviewed a request to adopt a Resolution to request a Local Statutory Act to Allow Harnett County to conduct a referendum during the November 2026 General Election to levy a local sales and use tax of up to one -cent in addition to all other State and local sales and use taxes. Chairman Jaggers asked what the revenue would be. Mr. Trout responded approximately 4 million for a quarter cent. Vice Chairman Nicol made a motion to adopt a Resolution to request a Local Statutory Act to Allow Harnett County to conduct a referendum during the November 2026 General Election to levy a local sales and use tax of up to one -cent in addition to all other State and local sales and use taxes. The motion was seconded by Commissioner McKoy and carried unanimously. (Attachment 4) Attorney Appel also reviewed a request to adopt a Resolution to request a local statutory act to allow Harnett County, by Ordinance, have developers pay school impact fees. It would allow a one time $1,500.00 fee, per residential dwelling unit, which includes detached and attached single-family and multi -family dwellings and manufactured homes, constructed within Harnett County. Such impact fees shall not be applied to the construction of buildings or structures, including alterations, repairs, renovations, or additions thereto, which are to be occupied and used solely for non-residential purposes or for any alterations, repairs, renovations, and additions to, or replacement of an existing residential dwelling unit. Vice Chairman Nicol shared information regarding a resolution he requested staff to prepare regarding a local act that would allow the county to make special assessment for school capital projects. Attorney Harnett County Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting Minutes April 14, 2026 Page 5 of 10 Appel stated this would add additional authority for the County to make special assessments against benefited residential properties within the County for all or part of the costs for capital improvements for schools and upon adoption of a local act pursuant to the proposed Resolution, the County of Harnett would waive the $500.00 recreation fee on new residential developments subject to the special assessment. It would apply to new homes. Discussion continued regarding the proposed Resolution. Chairman Jaggers made a motion to table the Resolution to request a local statutory act to allow Harnett County, by Ordinance, have developers pay school impact fees until we see how the proposed Resolution requesting a local act that would allow the county to make special assessment for school capital projects does. The motion was seconded by Vice Chairman Nicol and it carried unanimously. Mr. Trout stated as a point of order, since the Resolution regarding special assessments did not appear on the agenda, it would need to go under new business in order to be approved. Attorney Appel also reviewed a request to adopt a Resolution to request a local statutory act that would exempt Harnett County from amended provisions of § 160D-601(d) of the North Carolina General Statutes as amended by North Carolina House Bill 382. The adoption of North Carolina House Bill 382, specifically the provisions related to "down -zoning" in § 160D-601(d) of the North Carolina General Statutes, removed authority from local governments from amending development standards within their jurisdiction. Commissioner Matthews made a motion to adopt the Resolution to request a local statutory act that would exempt Harnett County from amended provisions of § 160D-601(d) of the North Carolina General Statutes as amended by North Carolina House Bill 382. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Morris and carried unanimously. (Attachment 5) Attorney Appel also reviewed a request for the adoption of the Resolution to request a Local Statutory Act to Allow Harnett County to adopt an airport overlay district for the Jetport to protect the future of the Jetport and the economic wellbeing of the County. The adoption of North Carolina House Bill 382, specifically the provisions related to "down -zoning" in § 160D-601(d) of the North Carolina General Statutes, prohibits airports from adopting airport overlay districts as it decreases the permitted uses of the properties located within the district. Vice Chairman Nicol made a motion to adopt a Resolution to request a Local Statutory Act to Allow Harnett County to adopt an airport overlay district for the Jetport to protect the future of the Jetport and the economic wellbeing of the County. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Matthews and carried unanimously. (Attachment 6) The Board of Commissioners reviewed applications for various boards and committees. Commissioner Morris made a motion to reappoint Dr. Brandon Washington and appoint Terrill Brown, I1I, DPM to the Board of Health. Harnett County Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting Minutes April 14, 2026 Page 6 of 10 Commissioner McKoy made a motion to reappoint Crystal Morrison to the Juvenile Crime Prevention Council. Chairman Jaggers seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. Vice Chairman Nicol made a motion to reappoint Roger Farina to the Jetport Board. The motion was seconded by Chairman Jaggers and carried unanimously. Vice Chairman Nicol made a motion to appoint Lynn Dahnke. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Morris and carried unanimously. Mr. Trout reminded the commissioners the Harnett County Management Academy graduation is tomorrow at 12:00 noon in the Resource Center & Library (RCL) Training Room B/C. Vice Chairman Nicol made a motion to approve the Budget Amendments as requested by the Finance Officer. The motion was seconded by Commissioner McKoy and carried unanimously. (Attachment 7) A video message from the President of the NC Association of County Commissioners was reviewed. President Nelson provided a recap of the NC Counties Care Forum held in Wake County last Friday and highlighted the importance of our County Advocacy Days event, scheduled for June 9-10 in Wake County. Under new business, Vice Chairman Nicol reviewed a proposed Resolution requesting a local statutory act that would allow the county to make special assessments for school capital projects for new homes, new construction. This local act if permitted would allow the County to only make special assessments against those benefited residential properties that receive a certificate of occupancy ("CO") as of the effective date of this act and any CO issued thereafter. They would be imposed with 10% of the value, special assessment, that would be divided up over 20 years. It would stay congruent with the property. For example, 10% of a $300,000 home is $30,000 over 20 years is $1,500 per year. It would go into a pot for Harnett County Schools to use towards their capital improvements. Vice Chairman Nicol made a motion to approve the Resolution requesting a local statutory act that would allow the county to make special assessments for school capital projects. Attorney Appel shared if approved it would require a public hearing. Chairman Jaggers seconded the motion so we can have the official discussion. Additional discussion included lottery funds. Chairman Jaggers called for a vote on the motion to approve the Resolution requesting a local statutory act that would allow the county to make special assessments for school capital projects. Motion carried unanimously. (Attachment 8) Vice Chairman Nicol also reviewed a proposed Resolution requesting a local statutory act to allow Harnett County to establish real property appraisal. January 1, 2026, the County of Harnett conducted its most recent reappraisal in accordance with the four-year reappraisal schedule. Between 2000 and 2020 the County's population increased over thirty percent with bringing thousands of new residents to the County. As a result of such growth, the January 1, 2026 real property reappraisal resulted in an average increase of forty-two to forty-six percent in the value of property in the County. The increase in real property values has created a burden for numerous residents of the County, particularly low-income households, veterans, and senior citizens. The proposed resolution expresses a desire to maintain Harnett County Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting Minutes April 14, 2026 Page 7 of 10 residential real property values until such time that the property is improved or sold to another individual, thereby allowing for more consistent and stable financial planning for residents. Residential real property reappraisals shall be conducted on an annual basis for residential transactions and new construction that occurred as of January 1 for the previous tax year. Upon the transfer, purchase, gift, or acquisition of real property or new construction on real property and the appraisal value is assessed for that property, such value shall not increase until such time that the property is deeded, sold, gifted, or otherwise transferred to another individual, corporation, or entity. New construction on previously purchased unimproved property shall result in a reappraisal of the entire parcel and structures thereon. Commissioner McKoy made a motion to further discuss the proposed resolution regarding a local act to establish real property appraisal. Chairman Jaggers seconded the motion to allow further discussion. Additional discussion included how the properties would be evaluated. The reappraisal process shall not apply to residential properties that are acquired via will, intestate succession, or other probate process. Additionally, it shall not apply to any improvements, additions, or renovations to existing residential structures completed by the existing owners of the property. Discussion also included the tax levy rate, low wealth funding received for schools and how many of our properties change hands, what percentage. Chairman Jaggers asked if it is approved and we look at it later on and we get numbers that say it really won't work, then we do not have to do it, right. Attorney Appel stated it is just an additional option as it is written. Vice Chairman Nicol made a motion to approve a Resolution by the Harnett County Board of Commissioners requesting a local statutory act to allow Harnett County to establish real property reappraisal tax reform. Commissioner Matthews stated based on the information that it would provide us an option but not necessarily be binding as we get into this and look at the numbers, I will second the motion. Chairman Jaggers agreed, I would like to see this further, our goal would be to take the burden off the current citizens. Commissioner McKoy stated I could agree with that so that we can analyze it. Attorney Snow stated this does not apply to commercial, correct. Chairman Jaggers stated that is correct. Chairman Jaggers called for a vote on the motion to approve the Resolution, the motion carried unanimously. (Attachment 9) Commissioner Comments Chairman Jaggers stated as you have heard, we have passed some resolutions and I would ask the citizens of the County to contact the legislators, if you support the resolutions or if you don't, either one. Please let them hear from you, that we have asked that you reach out to them. We do appreciate each and every one of you coming and we, some people may not believe so, but we actually do care and try to help as much as we possibly can. Sometimes our hands are tied, and you don't know the reasons why we have to do some of the things we do. But we are trying to make this county better and we do recognize the growth in this county has put a big burden on the county. We are trying to make it fair and impartial so that everyone has to pay, like the one cent sales tax. I think the one cent sales tax makes everybody that purchases anything pay. Harnett County Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting Minutes April 14, 2026 Page 8 of 10 Commissioner McKoy stated Commissioner Nicol it is not that I disapprove of your plan, I don't make decisions based on my constituents' life without analyzing how that is going to affect their lives. I am grateful that we made a decision that we can discuss this again, see the ins and outs of it and move on and try to do what we can to try and help the citizens. I too pay taxes in this county, I have land in this county, and I pay county taxes as well as town taxes. So don't misunderstand that these taxes are hurting me too, and it is hurting my whole family. What I have accumulated over the number of years, I hope to give to my kids once I leave this world but I do not want it depreciated so that it will not be of value to them because my husband and I have worked hard all our life to get to the point we are at today. And I think everyone sitting in this audience feels the same way. Commissioner Morris stated thank you all for coming and being patient with us. I know we have gone a little longer this morning, trying to work through these details. Commissioner Matthews stated I would like to echo some of the comments already made and go on record to thank you Chairman and Vice Chair for hearing the concerns of our citizens surrounding the recent property reevaluation that we had and the pending concerns over possible increases in property taxes and exhausting all means possible to try to explore whatever avenues there might be to seek some relief hence the special assessment discussion and the resolution about a real property tax reform down the road. I don't know, but anyway, thank you for your leadership and for your hard work in trying to work through this and find some relief for our citizens and myself. Thank you. Vice Chairman Nicol stated it has been a long 3 or 4 weeks. I probably have a lot more grey hairs now. We all have been battling and just trying to find a solution not for just the taxes but for everything. Prior service, I am airborne infantry, so I will find a way to accomplish a mission. My staff knows that. I don't take no very easily as far as when there's a need that needs to be done, I try to find a solution to it. Kicking around ideas, I mean non-stop. My mind is exhausted, after just trying to come up with a way, a solution that would be fair for everybody. Taking in every single person's comments into consideration, from Joe Langley talking about new growth needs to pay for itself, from Jerry Rivas talking about how unfair it is on the high changes, the fluctuating variables that come out with just a mobile home on land here. We are all citizens. We are all neighbors up here, you know, every single one of us. I've got kids here in school. I apologize, last week and I'm not really apologizing, I am asking for understanding. Last week I was not here because it was spring break. My youngest daughter is 9 years old, I only have a finite number of spring breaks, and I will spend those with my kids whenever I get a chance because that is the most important. Constantly going through this, we have battled so many different ways. Chris has told me no literally so many times, trying to find ways, come up with loopholes or a way to pioneer what the state has already implemented just so we can get the mission accomplished. Sometimes you have to regroup, sometimes you have to change the way you do things. I really think that everybody, we're all here at the same spot in life. We have all worked hard to get here. It's hard to get things in life. It's really hard to keep them. So, we want to keep preserving things in the county. We are trying to do the best we can for everybody. This right here is hopefully a possible solution, at lease it's an option. I hope this shows that we are not just sitting here going along with the statute or things that are imposed over us that we all have to live with. We are tying to find ways around that, that is fair for Harnett County, we are unique. Harnett County is unique; we have our own needs that are separate from anyone else. I Harnett County Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting Minutes April 14, 2026 Page 9 of 10 appreciate every single person that has been involved, it take a village, we are all peers, we are neighbors, let's just keep loving each other and take this day by day. Commissioner Morris made a motion to adjourn at 11:37 am. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Matthews and carried unanimously. Duncan E. Jaggers, Chaim Meliss �apps,Clerk Harnett County Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting Minutes April 14, 2026 Page 10 of 10 ATTACHMENT 1 Harnett County ARPA Funding Overview Project Overview Revenue Replacement (reimbursed general fund for employee salaries) $ 10,000,000 Funds remaining for ARPA-eligible projects $ 16,411,744 Total ARPA Allocation $ 26,411,744 Displaced Funding Amount Project Allocated Lead for NC Fellow (paid from special revenue) $ 15,000 Lead for NC Fellow (paid from general fund) $ 71,608 IT River Fiber Extension $ 149,332 Funding for Harnett Regional Jetport $ 2,500,000 CloudW ze Fiber Phase 2 Match $ 2,000,000 DSS 2nd Floor U fit $ 1,200,000 Office 365 Cloud Migration $ 1,043,259 Riverside Flood Project $ 750,000 Retention Pay for EMS Employees $ 382,177 Digital Literacy Training (CloudWyze) $ 5,000 Coun Mor ue $ 396,100 Grant Match for School Road (Development Services) $ 1,000,000 New Desks for Department of Social Services $ 73,610 New Utility Vehicle for Parks & Rec $ 13,870 Rewrite Documentation for Harnett Re Tonal Jet ort $ 22,535 HARTS Capital Reserve transfer for future capital purchases not covered by NCDOT $ 500,000 Transfer to Gen Fund to reduce use of Fund Balance $ 709,594 Total: $ 10,832,085 Remaining Funds for Contingency for Displaced Projects: $ - Proiect Total: (includes use of interest income) $ 10,832,085 ATTACHMENT 2 Harnett County Paid Parental Leave Policy Policy Statement Harnett County provides Paid Parental Leave to support employee well-being, promote family bonding, and enhance employee retention and recruitment. Paid Parental Leave provides time for eligible employees to recover, bond with, and care for a newborn or a child placed for adoption, foster care, or custody. Eligibility To be eligible for Paid Parental Leave, the individual must be a full-time permanent employee and experience a Qualifying Event. Qualifying Event: �1. Birth or stillbirth of a child; 2. Legal spouse of the birth mother; 3. Legal adoption, foster placement, or custody placement of a child under the age of eighteen (18). Documentation Employees may be required to submit documentation to confirm eligibility. Such documentation may include, but is not limited to, a birth certificate, certified DNA results, a note from a medical professional, adoption order, proof of placement, foster care placement agreement, or custody order. Leave Entitlement Up to four (4) weeks of Paid Parental Leave for recovery and/or bonding. Use of Leave • Employees must provide thirty (30) days or more of advanced notice requesting Paid Parental Leave. • Employees must complete the required Paid Parental Leave form. • Employees are allowed two Paid Parental Leave events per twelve (12) month period. • Paid Parental Leave may not be donated, transferred, carried over, or paid out due to separation from the County. • Paid Parental Leave must be taken in one continuous period, within three (3) months of the Qualifying Event. • Multiple births/adoptions/placements (e.g., twins, siblings) do not increase the amount of Paid Parental Leave granted. • If leave is required before the Qualifying Event for medical or adoption, foster, or custody -related reasons, other leave balances must be used in accordance with Harnett County leave policies. • Paid Parental Leave cannot be used prior to the Qualifying Event. Effective Date This policy shall apply to Qualifying Events occurring on or after June 1, 2026. RESOLUTION NO. 2026-16 Harnett COUNTY ATTACHMENT 3 NORTH CAROLINA RESOLUTION BY THE HARNETT COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF OPIOID SETTLEMENTS WITH REMNANT OPIOID DISTRIBUTORS/DISPENSER DEFENDANTS, ASSOCIATED PHARMACIES, INC., J M SMITH CORPORATION, LOUISIANA WHOLESALE DRUG COMPANY, INC., MORRIS AND DICKSON CO., NORTH CAROLINA MUTUAL WHOLESALE DRUG COMPANY, INC., AND UNITED NATURAL FOODS, INC. WHEREAS more than 44,500 North Carolinians lost their lives to a drug overdose from 2000-2024. WHEREAS the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has estimated the total economic burden of prescription opioid misuse alone in the United States to be $78.5 billion a year, including the costs of healthcare, lost productivity, addiction treatment, and criminal justice involvement; WHEREAS, Harnett County's drug overdose death rate in 2024 was 27.4 per 100,000 residents, which represents 40 total deaths for that year, and the drug overdose emergency department visit rate in 2024 was 106.1 trips per 100,000 residents, which represents 155 total ED visits for that year; and WHEREAS certain counties and municipalities in North Carolina joined with thousands of local governments across the country to file lawsuits against opioid companies, manufacturers, pharmaceutical distributors, and chain drug stores to hold those companies accountable for their misconduct; and WHEREAS a national opioid settlement with six opioid distributors/dispensers (collectively "the Remnant Defendants Settlement") have been reached in litigation against Associated Pharmacies, Inc (and American Associated Pharmacies); J M Smith Corporation; Louisiana Wholesale Drug Company, Inc.; Morris and Dickson Co.; North Carolina Mutual Wholesale Drug Company, Inc.; and United Natural Foods, Inc (including its subsidiaries SuperValu and Advantage Logistics), as well as their subsidiaries, affiliates, officers, and directors (collectively "the Remnant Defendants") named in the Opioid Manufacturer Settlements; and WHEREAS, the Remnant Defendants Settlement will result in the defendants paying approximately $97 million to settle opioid claims across the nation, which settlements would be subject to the equitable distribution of the proceeds as set forth in the Remnant Defendants Settlement Agreement; and WHEREAS it is advantageous to all North Carolinians for local governments, including Harnett County and its residents, to sign onto the Remnant Defendants Settlement in order to demonstrate solidarity in response to the opioid overdose crisis, and to maximize the share of opioid settlement funds received both in the State and this County to help abate the harm; and WHEREAS the Remnant Defendants Settlement directs substantial resources to local governments on the front lines of the opioid overdose epidemic while ensuring that these resources are used in an effective way to address the crisis. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Harnett County Board of Commissioners hereby authorizes the County Manager to execute the necessary documents to enter into the Remnant Defendants Settlement, as set forth herein, and to provide such documents to Rubris, the Implementation Administrator. Adopted this 14111 day of April 2026. Duncan E. Jaggers, aim Harnett County Board of o sioners ATTEST: Melis a Capps, �Cler�theBoard (SEAL) RESOLUTION NO. 2026-17 ATTACHMENT 4 Harnett COUNTY NORIH CAROLINA RESOLUTION BY THE HARNETT COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REQUESTING A LOCAL STATUTORY ACT TO ALLOW HARNETT COUNTY TO HOLD A REFERENDUM ON A ONE -CENT SALES TAX WHEREAS, the County of Harnett (hereinafter referred to as the "County") has experienced exponential growth with numerous residential subdivisions bringing thousands of new residents to the County; and WHEREAS, additional services are required to meet the needs of the growing population including, but not limited to, emergency services, law enforcement, social services, transportation, public health, parks and recreation, and school facilities; and WHEREAS, the County's two primary sources of revenue to provide such services are property tax and sales and use tax; and WHEREAS, the ever-increasing cost of services and construction, specifically new school construction, requires additional revenue to meet the needs of the County's growing population; and WHEREAS, North Carolina General Statute § 105-537 permits a local government to conduct a referendum to levy a one -quarter percent (0.25%) sales and use tax; and WHEREAS, if a local government desires to increase the local sales tax by more than one -quarter percent (0.25%), the North Carolina Legislature must adopt a local statutory act authorizing the local government to hold a referendum for a local sales tax of more than one -quarter percent (0.25%); and WHEREAS, the Harnett County Board of Commissioners (hereinafter referred to as the "Board of Commissioners") desire the authority to conduct a referendum during the November 2026 general election on the question of whether to levy an additional local sales and use tax of up to one -cent. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Harnett County Board of Commissioners requests that a local act be adopted for the benefit of the County of Harnett whereby it shall be granted the authority to conduct a referendum during the November 2026 general election on the question of whether to levy a local sales and use tax of up to one -cent in addition to all other State and local sales and use taxes. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this Resolution be forwarded to those General Assembly Representatives who serve Harnett County. Harnett COUNTY NORTH CAROLINA Adopted this the 14t' day of April 2026 by the Harnett County Board of Commissioners. HARNETT COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS i_« unc! = *� D , , t�J ATTEST: Melis D. Capps, Clerk to the oard RESOLUTION NO.2026-18 ATTACHMENT 5 Harnett C O U N T Y NORTH CRROLP-L' RESOLUTION BY THE HARNETT COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REQUESTING A LOCAL STATUTORY ACT THAT WOULD EXEMPT HARNETT COUNTY FROM HOUSE BILL 382 DOWNZONING REGULATIONS WHEREAS, the County of Harnett (hereinafter referred to as the "County") has experienced exponential growth with numerous residential subdivisions bringing thousands of new residents to the County; and WHEREAS, as a result of the growth, the County realized the need to address various issues such as infrastructure planning, economic development, agricultural preservation, natural resource protection, and housing demand/affordability; and WHEREAS, on February 7, 2025, the Harnett County Board of Commissioners (hereinafter referred to as the `Board of Commissioners") adopted "Harnett Horizons 2040", a comprehensive land use plan that outlines the community's vision for its future as well as polices and recommendations for achieving that vision; and WHEREAS, the adoption of North Carolina House Bill 382, specifically the provisions related to "down -zoning" in § 160D-601(d) of the North Carolina General Statutes, removed authority from local governments from amending development standards within their jurisdiction; and WHEREAS, as a result of the new "down -zoning" restrictions, the County is prohibited from adopting certain policies and recommendations from Harnett Horizons 2040; thereby handcuffing its ability to manage growth in the County; and WHEREAS, with the changing landscape of a traditionally rural and agricultural region, it is essential that the County retain the ability to provide for a thoughtful, orderly, and economically prosperous vision for the benefit of its current and future residents; and WHEREAS, the Board of Commissioners desire to be exempt from the "down -zoning" provisions from House Bill 382 to protect the wellbeing of its citizens. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Harnett County Board of Commissioners requests that a local act be adopted for the benefit of the County of Harnett that would exempt the County from amended provisions of § 160D-601(d) of the North Carolina General Statutes as amended by North Carolina House Bill 382. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this Resolution be forwarded to those General Assembly Representatives who serve Harnett County. I Harnett � eouN T _ NORTH CAROLINA Adopted this the 14' day of April 2026 by the Harnett County Board of Commissioners. HARNETT COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS �-un�canE. Magger�—s, ZCh—ai a ATTEST: Melissa . Capps, Clerk�tothioard� Harnett C 0 U N T Y fl4RTH CAROLINA RESOLUTION NO.2026-19 ATTACHMENT 6 RESOLUTION BY THE HARNETT COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REQ A LOCAL STATUTORY ACT THAT WOULD EXEMPT HARNETT REGIONAL JETPORT FROM HOUSE BILL 382 DOWNZONING REGULATIONS WHEREAS, the County of Harnett (hereinafter referred to as the "County") is the owner and operator of Harnett Regional Jetport (hereinafter referred to as the "Jetport"); and WHEREAS, the County, with the assistance of the North Carolina Department of Transportation, Division of Aviation, has committed to the development and improvement of the Jetport including the construction of a new terminal, apron expansion, runway rehabilitation, new runway lighting, new _ hangars, and acquisition of additional land for corporate hangar development and runway extension; and WHEREAS, the Jetport's economic impact on the County was $203.4 million based on 2023 data; and WHEREAS, airport overlay districts are important planning and zoning tools for airports as they protect safe airport operations, maintain public safety, and minimize noise impacts near airports by regulating land use, building heights, and development density; and WHEREAS, the adoption of North Carolina House Bill 382, specifically the provisions related to "down -zoning" in § 160D-601(d) of the North Carolina General Statutes, prohibits airports from adopting airport overlay districts as it decreases the permitted uses of the properties located within the district; and WHEREAS, with the substantial investment in the Jetport and its' importance on the local economy, it is essential that the County be able to adopt an airport overlay district to protect Jetport operations and its' continued expansion and for the protection of the general public; and WHEREAS, the Harnett County Board of Commissioners (hereinafter referred to as the "Board of Commissioners") desire the authority to adopt an airport overlay district for the Jetport to protect the future of the Jetport and the economic wellbeing of the County. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Harnett County Board of Commissioners requests that a local act be adopted for the benefit of the County of Harnett as follows: SECTION 1. G.S. 160D-904 reads as rewritten: § 160D-904. Airport zoning. (a) Any local government may enact and enforce airport zoning regulations pursuant to this Chapter or as authorized by Article 4 of Chapter 63 of the General Statutes. G.S. 160D-601 d shall UgLgRplyto air ort zoning re ulations. (b) Airport zoning regulations for real property within 6 miles of any cargo airport complex site subject to regulation by the North Carolina Global TransPark Authority are 11 governed by G.S. 63A-18. SECTION 2. This act applies only to Harnett County. SECTION 3. This act is effective when it becomes law. Harnett C 0 U N TY NORTH CAROUF BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this Resolution be forwarded to those General Assembly Representatives who serve Harnett County. Adopted this the 1401 day of April 2026 by the Harnett County Board of Commissioners. HARNETT COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS ATTEST: Melis6 D. Capps, Clerk to the Board ORDINANCE NO.2026-13 ATTACHMENT 7 Harnett County Greenway Project CAPITAL PROJECT ORDINANCE BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of Commissioners of Harnett County, North Carolina, sitting as the governing board for Harnett County. Section 1. The first chase consists of land and easement acquistition of the South River Greenway project. This project will assist in creating a major connection between Raven Rock State Park and Lillington's River Park. The South River Greenway will be located on .an old rail corridor starting at the intersection of South River Road and Jim Christian Road and will run east toward the Town of Lillington. This trail would facilitate greater connectivity between the town, other portions of the county, and a state park, remaining consisitent with priorities identified in the 2021 Harnett County Bicycle. Pedestrian, and Greenway Plan. Section 2. The following expenditures are hereby appropriated for this project: Admin & Professional Construction Captal Outlay -Land Contingency Total Original Ordinance $ 69,300 276,293 3,70.7 $ 349,300 Section 3. The following revenues are hereby appropriated for this project: Original Ordinance Transfer from Capital Reserves $ 118,762 State Grant $ 230,538 Total _$ 349,300 Section 4. Copies of this capital project ordinance shall he furnished to the Clerk to the Board, the Budget Officer and the Finance Officer for direction in carrying out this project. Duiy adopter' this day of Aipvi 2026. Duncan E. Daggers, Chairman Harnett County Board of Commissioners ATTEST: �M,Ieliss Capps, Clerk to the 0 a �. �Y COUNTY OF HARNETT BUDGET ORDINANCE REVISION 6� Type B BE IT ORDAINED by the Governing Board of the County of Harnett, North Carolina, that the following amendment be made to the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026. Section 1. To amend the HARNETT REGIONAL WATER department of the 610 fund. The appropriations are to be changed as follows: ORG OBJECT PROJECT TASK SUB -TASK JOB EXPLANATION: ADJUST EXPENDITURE ACTIVITY WITH OPERATIONAL BUDGET. APPROVALS: 4/1/2026 Department Head Date r� 4/6/2026 (Finance Officer Date AMOUNT OF CODE sgneeer. 4/2/2026 Budget Director Date $4-q- # 4/6/2026 County Manager Date Section 2. Copies of this budget amendment shall be furnished to the Clerk to the Board, and to the Budget Officer and the Finance Officer for their direction. 'T11-1 Adopted this �_ day of 20 �Clpps� Clerk to the Board Prepared by. #NAME? f . Duncan E.Jagger s, h n Board of Commissioners Date: April ], 2026 .`y.. lrK(.�f Page 1 of 1 COUNTY OF HARNETT BUDGET ORDINANCE REVISION BE IT ORDAINED by the Governing Board of the County of Harnett, North Carolina, that the following amendment be made to the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026. Section 1. To amend the NWW22 CAPITAL PROJECT department of the HRW Capital Project fund. The appropriations are to be changed as follows: REVENUE AMOUNT ORG OBJECT PROJECT TASK SUB -TASK JOB DESCRIPTION OF CODE INCREASE DECREASE 6103900 390990 FUND BALANCE APPROPRIATED $3,105,562 EXPLANATION: Appropriate Fund Balance to transfer funds to cover change order 6 for Adams Robinson and change order 1 for Bionomics for the sludge lagoon. APPROVALS: aronae W. W.% bWlAS 4/2/2026 4/2/2026 Department Head Date Budget Director Date Docu�g,W s izkbCr�+ (tdtn 04 4/6/2026 4/6/2026 Finance Officer Date County Manager Date Section 2. Copies of this budget amendment shall be furnished to the Clerk to the Board, and to the Budget Officer and the Finance Officer for their direction. Adopted this 1 day of , 20 `�• ,,� Prepared by: Melissa Capps Clerk to the Board alcoats "'I Duncan E. Jaggers, Chai Board of Commissioners Date: April 2, 2026 COUNTY OF HARNETT Type B 5 Type B BUDGET ORDINANCE REVISION BE IT ORDAINED by the Governing Board of the County of Harnett, North Carolina, that the following amendment be made to the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026. Section 1. To amend the Development Services department of the General fund. The appropriations are to be changed as follows: EXPENDITURE AMOUNT ORG OBJECT PROJECT TASK SUB -TASK JOB DESCRIPTION OF CODE INCREASE DECREASE 1109910 599000 CONTINGENCY $13,500 1104910 548000 DUES & SUBSCRIPTIONS $13,500 REVENUE """ ORG OBJECT PROJECT TASK SUB -TASK JOB DESCRIPTION OF CODE INCREASE EXPLANATION: Move money set aside in Contingency to cover the cost of increased MPO dues. APPROVALS: e1.—W 3/26/2026 3/26/2026 Department Head Date Budget irector Date r-- apiwe w: 4/6/2026 4/6/2026 Finance Officer Date County Manager Date Section 2. Copies of this budget amendment shall be furnished to the Clerk to the Board, and to the Budget Officer and the Finance Officer for their direction. Adopted this 1 day of Nx J/.��..•.re. : .tea y Melissa Capps Y' t. erk to the Board Prepared by: alcoats Duncan E. a s, rman Board of Commissioners Date: March 26, 2026 Page 1 of 1 h a r n ea. RESOLUTION NO.2026-20 ATTACHMENT 8 t 0 Ei N T Y NOR14 CAROLINA S REQUESTING RESOLUTION BY THE HARNETT COUNTY L BOARD THE COUNTY TOOF MAKESPECIAL A LOCAL STATUTORY AC THAT WOULD A ASSESSMENTS FOR SCHOOL CAPITAL PROJECTS WHEREAS, the County of Harnett (hereinafter referred to as the "County") has experienced exponential growth with numerous residential subdivisions bringing thousands of new residents to the County; and WHEREAS, additional services are required to meet the needs of the growing population, including the construction of new schools to alleviate school overcrowding created by new development; and WHEREAS, Chapter 115C Article 37 of the North Carolina General Statutes requires the County to fund capital outlay expenditures for schools, including the construction of new school facilities; and WHEREAS, Article 9 of Chapter 153A of the North Carolina General Statutes does not grant local governments the authority to make special assessments to offset the costs of school construction; and WHEREAS, Article 9A of Chapter 153A of the North Carolina General Statutes authorized counties to impose assessments on school projects upon receipt of a petition of a majority of the affected land owners, but this authority expired effective July 1, 2025; and WHEREAS, in the absence of authority to make special assessments or charge impact fees, the County must utilize property and sales tax revenue to fund school construction projects; and WHEREAS, the ever-increasing cost of such construction requires additional property and sales tax revenue from established residents to meet the educational needs created by new residents; and WHEREAS, the anticipated school construction and renovation costs over the next two years to meet demand generated by population growth is currently estimated to exceed two hundred million dollars; and WHEREAS, requiring new residential development to contribute to the costs of new school facilities is the fair and equitable solution to the financial burden created by such development; and WHEREAS, the Harnett County Board of Commissioners (hereinafter referred to as the "Board of Commissioners") desire the authority to make special assessments in order to shift the financial burden from established residents to residential development. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Harnett County Board of Commissioners requests that a local act be adopted for the benefit of the County of Harnett whereby § 153A-185 of the North Carolina General Statutes shall be amended to add additional authority for the County to make special assessments against benefited residential properties within the County for all or part of the costs for capital improvements for schools. For the purposes of this act, the term "capital improvements" shall include capital outlay expenditures for school construction. renovations, improvements, repairs, additions, Harnett C 0 U N T Y NORTH CAR0I_I14A water supply and sanitary facilities, furniture and apparatus, classroom equipment, and instructional supplies. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this local act permit the County to only make special assessments against those benefited residential properties that receive a certificate of occupancy ("CO") as of the effective date of this act and any CO issued thereafter. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that upon adoption of a local act pursuant to this Resolution, the County of Harnett shall waive the $500.00 recreation fee on new residential developments subject to the special assessment. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this Resolution be forwarded to those General Assembly Representatives who serve Harnett County. Adopted this the I day of April 2026 by the Harnett County Board of Commissioners. HARNETT COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS Duncan E. Jaggers, ATTEST: ofS°�y'M - Melissa . Capps, Clerk to the oard �I �. F RESOLUTION NO. 2026-21 Harnett COUNTY NORTH CAROLINA RESOLUTION BY THE HARNETT COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REQUESTING A LOCAL STATUTORY ACT TO ALLOW HARNETT COUNTY TO ESTABLISH REAL PROPERTY REAPPRAISAL TAX REFORM ATTACHMENT 9 WHEREAS, North Carolina General Statute § 105-286 requires counties to reappraise all real property at least every eight years unless a county adopts a resolution providing for the advancement of the reappraisal; and WHEREAS, The Harnett County Board of Commissioners (hereinafter referred to as the "Board of Commissioners") adopted a resolution to move to a four-year reappraisal schedule; and WHEREAS, effective January 1, 2026, the County of Harnett (hereinafter referred to as the "County") conducted its most recent reappraisal in accordance with the four-year reappraisal schedule; and, WHEREAS, between 2000 and 2020 the County's population increased over thirty percent with bringing thousands of new residents to the County; and WHEREAS, as a result of such growth, the January 1, 2026 real property reappraisal resulted in an average increase of forty-two to forty-six percent in the value of property in the County; and WHEREAS, the increase in real property values has created a burden for numerous residents of the County, particularly low-income households, veterans, and senior citizens; and WHEREAS, established residents should not bear the financial burden of the continuously increasing tax liability resulting from such reappraisals; and WHEREAS, the Board of Commissioners desire the authority to maintain residential real property values until such time that the property is improved or sold to another individual, thereby allowing for more consistent and stable financial planning for residents. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Harnett County Board of Commissioners requests that a local act be adopted for the benefit of the County of Harnett whereby residential real property reappraisals shall be conducted on an annual basis for residential transactions and new construction that occurred as of January 1 for the previous tax year. Upon the transfer, purchase, gift, or acquisition of real property or new construction on real property and the appraisal value is assessed for that property, such value shall not increase until such time that the property is deeded, sold, gifted, or otherwise transferred to another individual, corporation, or entity. New construction on previously purchased unimproved property shall result in a reappraisal of the entire parcel and structures thereon. BE IT FUTHER RESOLVED that the reappraisal process shall not apply to residential properties that are acquired via will, intestate succession, or other probate process. Additionally, it shall not apply to any improvements, additions, or renovations to existing residential structures completed by the existing owners of the property. Harnett COUNTY N(iRiH {AROLINA BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this 1 te §t105 commercial ercial real property and shall be reappraised in accordance with North Carolina General Statu BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this Resolution be forwarded to those General Assembly Representatives who serve Harnett County. Adopted this the i`'t' day of April 2026 by the Harnett County Board of Commissioners. HARNETT COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS aDunc4a4nt.J�aggers, Chai:'anff ATTEST: Melis D. Capps, Cler�te Board­ 2