010924 ws packetWORK SESSION AGENDA
Date: Tuesday, January 9, 2024
Time: 9:00 a.m.
Location: Commissioners Meeting Room Harnett County Resource Center & Library 455 McKinney Parkway, Lillington
Harnett County Board of Commissioners
Page | 1
1.Call to order – Chairman William Morris
2.Pledge of Allegiance and Invocation – Commissioner Matt Nicol
3.Discuss a request for approval of a change to Spout Springs Emergency Services Relief Fund Board membership; Larry Smith, Emergency Services Director
4.Discuss a request to accept the bid from Daniel Inc. of Garner for the Government Complex parking lot resurfacing; Kenneth Snipes, Facility Maintenance Manager
5.Discuss a request to apply for a Veterans Treatment Court Innovations (ALLRISE) Grant in an amount up to $67,742; Eric Truesdale, Veteran Services Director
6.Discuss a request for Board approval to accept the Request for Proposal bid from Fast Forward Libraries LLC to provide consulting services for the Harnett County Public Library's 2024-2029 Strategic Plan; Angela McCauley, Library Director
7.Discuss a request for permission to apply for and accept (if awarded) a North Carolina Department of Information Technology Digital Equity Grant in the amount of $61,300, with no match required; Joanna Cox, Assistant Library Director/Systems Librarian
8.Discuss a request to accept grant monies from the Office of State Budget and Management(OSBM); Ally Fouts Gaines, Management Analyst
9.Discuss Cooperative Extension Memorandum of Agreement; Tim Mathews, County Extension Director
10.Discuss suspending the issuance of building permits in the Rawls Church Road area until certain safety concerns are addressed; William Morris, Chairman
11.Discuss Jetport Terminal Building Naming; Brooks Matthews, Vice Chairman
12.Review applications to serve on Boards and Committees.
13.County Manager’s Report – Brent Trout, County Manager
•January 16, 2024 Regular Meeting Agenda Review
•Upcoming meetings and invitations
14.Closed Session
15.Adjourn
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Harnett County Board of Commissioners
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CONDUCT OF THE JANUARY 9, 2024 MEETING
A livestream of the meeting will be on the Harnett County Government’s YouTube Channel
at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCU7mTF6HTD65x_98EhAMeMg/featured.
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Board Change.docx Page 1 of 1
Board Meeting
Agenda Item
MEETING DATE: January 16, 2024
TO: HARNETT COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
SUBJECT: Spout Springs Relief Fund Board Member Change
REQUESTED BY: Emergency Services, Larry Smith
REQUEST:
Request Board approval of a change to Spout Springs Emergency Services Relief Fund
Board membership. The department is requesting to change 1 position on their Board.
Mr. Eric Hartman to be replaced by Mrs. Lydia Putman. All changes to the department
Relief Fund Board members must be approved by the Harnett County Board of
Commissioners.
FINANCE OFFICER’S RECOMMENDATION:
COUNTY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION:
Item 3
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Item 4
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Board Meeting
Agenda Item
MEETING DATE: January 16, 2024
TO: HARNETT COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
SUBJECT: Veterans Treatment Court Application for Grant
REQUESTED BY: Amy Noel/Eric Truesdale
REQUEST:
To apply for a Veterans Treatment Court Innovations (ALLRISE) Grant in the amount
of up to $67,742.00. This grant will enable the court to establich an MRT Program that
will include training, facilitators and materials for the program. The grant will also
allow us to send two more staff to the required annual conference (NADCP) that
provides our required training and CEU's.
FINANCE OFFICER'S RECOMMENDATION:
COUNTY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION:
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Library Strategic Plan.docx Page 1 of 2
Board Meeting
Agenda Item
MEETING DATE: January 16, 2024
TO: HARNETT COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
SUBJECT: Harnett County Public Library System Strategic Plan Consultant Bid
Award
REQUESTED BY: Angela McCauley, Library Director
REQUEST:
The Library is seeking Board approval to accept the Request for Proposal bid from
Fast Forward Libraries LLC to provide consulting services for the Harnett County
Public Library's 2024-2029 Strategic Plan. The bid estimate for the consulting services
is $42,400. A committee comprised of library administration reviewed proposals,
interviewed the top three finalists and voted to recommend Fast Forward Libraries as
the consulting firm based on experience and expertise in preparing both comprehensive
and vision based plans for public library systems.
FINANCE OFFICER’S RECOMMENDATION:
COUNTY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION:
Item 6
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HARNETT COUNTY LIBRARY SYSTEM
REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL
LIBRARY STRATEGIC PLAN 2024-29
Proposals Due November 1, 2023 no later 4:00 pm.
Submit Proposals to:
Harnett County Finance
Attn: Renea Warren-Ford
Purchasing Specialist
455 McKinney Parkway, Lillington, NC 27546
Submit via UPS, FedEx or in person
Include Bid No. LB-11012023 on the outside of a sealed envelope.
455 McKinney Parkway
Lillington, North Carolina 27546
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Objective
Harnett County Library System is seeking proposals for a qualified, knowledgeable and experienced
consulting firm or individual to conduct and facilitate a strategic planning process that will guide the
future direction of our library system. The selected consultant will work cooperatively with library
staff, HCPL Board of Trustees, and community stakeholders to create a 5-year plan that is both
visionary and practical. The purpose of the strategic plan is to provide a clear and structured
framework for guiding the library’s future development and operations . The plan will serve as a
roadmap that will help the library achieve its mission of providing accessible and valuable resources
and services while responding to the evolving needs of the Harnett County community.
Background
Harnett County is located in Central North Carolina between Raleigh and Fayetteville. There are
five (5) municipalities located in the County. The County includes 601 square miles of which 561
square miles is considered to be rural/non-urban.
Harnett County’s population is approximately 143,573. The county is experiencing rapid growth.
From 2010 to 2020 there was a 16.5% increase in population. Much of this growth has been
outside of the incorporated towns, which make up approximately 20% of the county population.
The County’s proximity to Raleigh and the Fayetteville area and the Highway 87 & I-95 corridors
make Harnett County a desired location for residents, businesses, and industry.
The Harnett County Public Library System (HCPL) is a County library system comprised of a Main
Library and 6 branches. A 7th branch is expected to open in Western Harnett County in January
2024.
Construction of the new Main Library was completed in 2021. The new 20,000 square foot
building provides expanded resources, up-to-date technology, meeting spaces, Makerspaces,
local history room, and study areas.
Prior to August 2022, the Harnett County Library system consisted of the Main Library, a small
branch library operated out of Anderson Creek Primary School, and the Boone Trail Recreation
Center & Library, a space shared with Harnett County Parks & Recreation. Public libraries in
Angier, Coats, Dunn, and Erwin were affiliated with the Harnett County Library but were funded
and operated by their respective municipal governments. Funding, support, hours of operation,
and staffing were inadequate and unsustainable in some affiliate library locations resulting in
inconsistent library experiences for Harnett County citizens. On August 1st, 2022 Harnett County
government entered into an agreement with the Towns of Angier, Coats, and Erwin allowing the
County to take ownership and responsibility of all library operations. On September 1, 2023 The
City of Dunn followed suit creating a fully consolidated library system in Harnett County. Since
consolidation, the County has fortified library branch budgets allowing them to increase the
number of staff members, extend hours of operation, offer more programming and services, and
improve the quality and size of library collections.
The Harnett County Library System is a member of NC Cardinal, a consortium of 52 North Carolina
public library systems that share an online catalog, integrated library system, and library
resources.
In FY 2023, the Harnett County Public Library system added 7762 new patrons, an increase of
44% from the previous year. The library was open 12,982 hours and welcomed 175,838 visitors
from July 1, 2022-June 30, 2023. The total number of items circulated in 2023 was 282,280, an
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increase of 18% from 2022.
The Harnett County Library System has 38.26 Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) employees, of which 24
are full-time employees and 23 part-time employees.
Plans are currently underway to open the doors of a public library in a rural, unincorporated area
of western Harnett County in January 2024. The Benhaven Public Library will be located on the
former Benhaven Elementary School campus which was vacated when a newly constructed
elementary school opened in August of 2018. In addition to the public library, the former school
campus will accommodate Harnett County School’s Early College, Harnett County Parks and
Recreation, a satellite office for Harnett County Department of Social Services and Veterans
Services, and a playgroup site location for Harnett County Partnership for Children.
Scope of Work
The Harnett County Public Library System is seeking an experienced consultant(s) to perform the
following:
Facilitate the strategic planning process using a methodology effective for public libraries.
Examine the Harnett County community’s demographics and growth patterns.
Leverage existing library data; research and gather additional data required to provide
statistically relevant information for developing the plan .
Engage library users, non-users, stakeholders, and community partners to identify community
wants, priorities, and aspirations.
Facilitate planning meetings and input sessions.
Review the current Mission and Vision statements and facilitate revisions.
Identify service priorities, needs, objectives, and activities associated with future public library
trends and technologies.
Work closely with designated staff on tasks related to the strategic planning process.
Present a draft for review and feedback before presenting a final report.
Write and present a Strategic Plan document that will be communicated to the library’s
stakeholders, elected officials, Board of Trustees, and staff that includes the following:
o Executive Summary with key findings
o Current community profile, including market and demographic analysis
o Assessment of the library’s environment and organizational capacity to execute the strategy
o Clearly and concisely defined strategic priorities that are measurable and attainable for which
the library will hold itself accountable.
o Opportunities for collaboration and partnerships.
o Specifications or template for a regular review and evaluation process.
Deliver all raw and summary data to Harnett County Library Administration at the conclusion of
the planning process.
Proposal Content Requirements
Proposals should contain the following:
Cover letter providing Consultant name, address, telephone number, and email of principal
contact person. Include a brief description of Consultant- whether individual or firm.
Executive summary of the proposal, not to exceed two (2) pages in length.
Document outlining the qualifications of the Consultant including the Consultant’s history,
capabilities, and relevant experience.
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Description of the project team, listing key personnel and a description of the role they will
perform on the project. If the Consultant plans to contract with a third party vendor for any
portion of the project, identify the vendor and provide contact and reference information.
Exclusions or exceptions. Note any parts of the proposal that are beyond the expertise of the
Consultant and would be delegated or contracted to others.
Work plan which includes a description of the methodology, tasks, timeline, and estimated total
amount of time that would be spent on the project.
Schedule of costs that includes consulting, supplies, number of onsite visits, travel expenses per
trip, and other costs associated with the planning process. Costs for data gathering and analysis
should be listed separately.
List of at least three (3) references for which the Consultant has provided similar services. Include
contact names, phone numbers, and email addresses for each reference. Public library
references are preferred.
Each proposal may contain:
o Sample materials, such as strategic planning documents
o Any additional documentation or information that the Consultant deems necessary to assist
the LPL in the selection process
Submission Requirements
The Consultant is expected to enter into an agreement with the County of Harnett, and to provide
proper insurance documentation, references, execution of proposal sheet, and employee eligibility.
Submission Schedule
Proposals are due to the Library Director and the County’s Purchasing Specialist by 4:00pm November 1.
The County may invite one or more selected firms to a presentation and interview before staff and/or
other elected or appointed officials prior to final selection. It is anticipated that a final selection and
Notice to Proceed will be issued on or around November 17, 2023.
Contact Information
For questions or to submit a proposal, please contact Renea Warren -Ford at
purchasing.support@harnett.org and include Library Strategic Plan in the subject line. Budget
parameters will not be discussed with any prospective consultant.
Submit
Send one (1) electronic copy via email in PDF format to purchasing.support@harnett.org and submit (1)
paper copy via FedEx, UPS or hand deliver labeled with firm name and Library Strategic Plan
Harnett County Resource Center and Library
Attn: Renea Warren-Ford
Purchasing Specialist
455 McKinney Parkway
Lillington, NC 27546
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Conditions and Limitations
Equal Employment Opportunity
All firms will be required to follow Federal Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) policies. Harnett County
will affirmatively assure that on any project constructed pursuant to this advertisement, equal
employment opportunity will be offered to all persons without regard to race, color, creed, religion,
natural origin, sex, and marital status, status with regard to public assistance, membership or activity in a
local commission, disability, sexual orientation, or age.
Minority and Small Business Participation Plan
It is the policy of Harnett County that Minority and Women Owned Businesses (MBEs) and other small
businesses shall have the opportunity to compete fairly in contracts financed in whole or in part with
public funds. Consistent with this policy, Harnett County will not allow any person or business to be
excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise be discriminated against in connection
with the award and performance of any contract because of sex, race, religion, or national origin.
Proposals will be evaluated based on the following factors by an evaluation team consisting of County
management personnel. The award made to the firm whose proposal has been determined to be most
advantageous to the County.
The County reserves the right to reject any proposal. The County may or may not award this contract
solely on the cost submitted as part of the proposal. Any cost incurred by respondents in preparing or
submitting a proposal shall be the respondent’s sole responsibility.
End of RFP Harnett County Public Library Strategic Plan
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REFERENCES
1. Agency or Firm Name:
Business Address:
Contact Person:
Telephone Number:
2. Agency or Firm Name:
Business Address:
Contact Person:
Telephone Number:
3. Agency or Firm Name:
Business Address:
Contact Person:
Telephone Number:
4. Agency or Firm Name:
Business Address:
Contact Person:
Telephone Number:
5. Agency or Firm Name:
Business Address:
Contact Person:
Telephone Number:
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EXECUTION OF PROPOSAL PAGE
Library Strategic Plan
Date: ________________________
By submitting this proposal, the Vendor/Contractor certifies the following:
An authorized representative of the Vendor/Contractor has signed this proposal.
It can obtain insurance certificates as required within 10 calendar days after notice of award.
The Vendor/Contractor has determined the cost and availability of all equipment, materials and
supplies associated with performing the services outlined herein.
All labor costs, direct and indirect, have been determined and included in the proposed cost.
If required, the Vendor/Contractor has attended the pre-proposal conference and is aware of the
prevailing conditions associated with performing this contract.
The Vendor/Contractor agrees to complete the scope of work for this project with no exceptions.
Therefore, in compliance with the foregoing Request for Proposal, and subject to all terms a nd
conditions thereof, the undersigned offers and agrees, if this proposal is accepted within (60) days from
the date of the opening, to furnish the services for the prices quoted.
Vendor:
Mailing Address:
City, State, Zip Code:
Telephone Number:
Principal Place of Business if
different from above
By Title:
(Type or Print Name)
(Signature)
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agendaform2024.docx Page 1 of 1
Board Meeting
Agenda Item
MEETING DATE: January 16, 2024
TO: HARNETT COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
SUBJECT: NCDIT Digital Equity Grant
REQUESTED BY: Joanna Cox, Harnett County Library
REQUEST:
The Harnett County Public Library respectfully requests permission to apply for and
accept (if awarded) a North Carolina Department of Information Technology Digital
Equity Grant in the amount of $61,300, with no match required. The proposed Digital
Equity Grant Project for Harnett County Public Library System is designed to widely
advance digital equity in Harnett County, including the 13% of residents without
Internet service, and the nearly 8% of residents without Internet-connected devices
(ACS - U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 2017-2021 5-Year
Estimates). The heart of the initiative lies in the acquisition of Chromebooks and
hotspots for lending out to the community. This device lending program will address
the fundamental barrier of access, providing essential tools for online participation to
community members lacking computing devices or reliable Internet access.
FINANCE OFFICER’S RECOMMENDATION:
COUNTY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION:
Item 7
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Scope of the Project
• Provide a detailed description of all major project activities
• Describe in detail how the project activities will advance digital equity
• Describe your entity’s experience working in digital equity (if applicable). If your entity does not have
experience working in digital equity, how will you build your expertise?
• Describe your entity’s staff capacity for this project. Describe any positions you plan to hire to
increase your capacity. (Open answer)
The Digital Equity Project for Harnett County Public Library System is designed to widely advance digital
equity in Harnett County, including the 13% of residents without Internet service, and the nearly 8% of
residents without Internet-connected devices (ACS - U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey
2017-2021 5-Year Estimates). The heart of the initiative lies in the acquisition of Chromebooks and
hotspots for lending out to the community. This device lending program will address the fundamental
barrier of access, providing essential tools for online participation to community members lacking
computing devices or reliable Internet access. Each Chromebook kit will include a carrying case, wireless
mouse, and library-created "getting started” guide. Each hotspot kit will similarly include a carrying case
and “getting started” guide that includes comprehensive instructions for how to connect to and use the
device. Also, staff will undergo training to effectively support patrons in device setup and
troubleshooting. This ensures users receive the necessary guidance to set up and effectively utilize the
devices, contributing to the development of digital literacy skills. The initiative will also include a series
of Internet Literacy classes facilitated by the Library’s Systems Librarian and hosted at three library
branches using the Chromebooks. These classes will enhance participants' capabilities in online
navigation, communication, and information retrieval. Also, ongoing program evaluation and data
collection will provide valuable insights, guiding the project's evolution and ensuring its effectiveness.
Harnett County Public Library has a creditable track record of managing device lending initiatives that
actively address digital equity within its community. In 2022 the library system successfully implemented
a Chromebook lending program. This initiative encompassed the entire process—from purchasing
devices and assembling kits, to cataloging, marketing, and providing staff and community training. Since
July 2021, Chromebook kits have circulated over 400 times, providing device access to an average of 25
community households per month. It is the library’s goal to expand this high-demand initiative with the
acquisition of additional devices. Additionally, Harnett County Public Library engaged in a popular three-
month hotspot lending program in 2021, leveraging devices and services provided by the NC Student
Connect initiative. While the NC Student Connect program was ultimately terminated due to funding
constraints, this experience underscores the library's proactive stance in seeking innovative solutions for
digital equity.
The library’s familiarity with managing device lending programs positions it well to navigate the
challenges and intricacies associated with this project. Furthermore, the library staff's history of
engagement in training sessions ensures they will be well -prepared to provide effective support to
patrons in setting up and using the Chromebooks and hotspots. The Library’s Systems Librarian has over
4 years of experience in providing technology and digital literacy-related programming to the public,
including computer basics and Internet skills. This collective expertise and dedication reflect a strong
foundation upon which the library's staff can successfully lead and sustain the Digital Equity Project,
fostering increased access and digital literacy within Harnett County.
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Area and Population Served
• Which Counties will your project serve? (Dropdown)
Harnett
• Who will your project serve? What are their biggest digital needs? (Open answer)
Harnett County Public Library’s Digital Equity Project is designed to serve a diverse demographic,
encompassing both students and adults who crucially require access to reliable Internet and Internet-
connected devices for academic and professional endeavors. As revealed by the 2019 Harnett County
Broadband Assessment conducted by ECC Technologies, Inc.
(https://www.harnett.org/publicinfo/downloads/harnett-county-broadband-report..pdf), a substantial
62% of households in the County grapple with challenges in completing schoolwork (K-12 and college)
due to a lack of Internet service. The Digital Equity Project will bridge this digital gap in the community,
ensuring students of all levels have the devices and connectivity necessary for seamless educational
engagement. The 2019 assessment also determined that 81% of residents emphasize the importance of
Internet access for pursuing education, and 78% prioritize it for earning a livelihood. The overarching
need across this demographic is clear—access to the Internet is integral to academic success,
professional advancement, and overall quality of life. By addressing these pressing digital needs, the
project aims to empower individuals within the community to thrive in the digital age, fostering equal
opportunities for educational and professional growth.
• Which priority populations will your project serve? (Checkbox)
Individuals who primarily reside in a rural area
• What is your experience serving this/these population(s)? (Open answer)
Situated amidst several urban and suburban counties, Harnett County is characterized as predominantly
rural by the NC Rural Center, with fewer than 250 people per square mile. The Harnett County Public
Library has maintained a longstanding commitment to delivering essential services and resources to this
community. In response to the challenges posed by the pandemic, the library has intensified its efforts
to furnish the community with access to devices, digital services, and technology training. These
initiatives are strategically designed to augment the community's access to resources that are typically
more readily available in urban settings.
Intended Outcomes and Metrics
• What are your intended outcome(s) and metrics for the project? How will you define success?
• What tangible activities will you accomplish within the first year?
• How will you share what you learn outside your agency? (Open answer)
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The digital equity project is designed with comprehensive outcomes and metrics in mind, aiming to
define success through tangible improvements in digital access, literacy, and community engagement.
The project's success will be measured by meeting or surpassing quarterly target circulation numbers for
devices, providing a clear indication of the initiative's effectiveness in delivering essential tools to
community members. Regular distribution of voluntary user surveys that gauge how devices are utilized,
user's device and internet access status at home, and user satisfaction with the lending program, will
serve as a crucial metric. Participants in the Internet Literacy classes will also receive surveys at the end
of class. The end-of-class surveys will be based on the Project Outcome model, a feedback model for
public libraries to understand and share their impact. High survey participation and positive feedback
will affirm the project's positive impact on users and guide future enhancements. Additionally, the
number of participants in Internet Literacy classes will be tracked to evaluate the project's success in
enhancing digital literacy skills within the community.
In the first year of the digital equity project, several tangible activities will be undertaken to lay the
foundation for success. The project will start with the purchase of devices and accessories, followed by
the packaging and cataloging of device kits. User surveys will be developed and distributed. To empower
library staff to provide effective support, front-end staff will undergo comprehensive training on device
usage and troubleshooting. As a key element of community outreach, at least 5 Internet Literacy classes
will be conducted at 3 library branches using the devices.
Harnett County Public Library is committed to facilitating knowledge exchange with other agencies. A
dedicated approach will be established to document and compile the project's successes, challenges,
and effective strategies throughout its implementation. This comprehensive documentation will serve as
a valuable resource that can be shared with agencies that seek to implement a similar project. An open
communication channel will be fostered, encouraging dialogue and collaboration to exchange insights
and refine best practices based on the evolving needs of rural communities.
Partners and Local Engagement
• Include a list of partners involved in the project and describe their role. If all partners are not yet
identified, describe process for identifying partners. (Open answer)
While there are currently no expected partnerships for this project outside of the library system,
proactive efforts will be made to collaborate with other Harnett County departments and local
businesses/institutions to effectively promote and market the Chromebook and hotspot lending
programs, along with the Internet Literacy classes, throughout the county.
Potential Obstacles
• Discuss any barriers or obstacles you might encounter. (Open answer)
There are a few potential barriers and obstacles that may be encountered in the implementation of this
project. One significant challenge could arise from supply chain issues, potentially causing delays in the
acquisition of devices and essential supplies. Mitigating strategies and contingency plans will be
essential to navigate these uncertainties and ensure the project adheres to its timeline. Another
obstacle lies in the risk of device loss over the course of the project, with devices being checked out and
not returned. Implementing robust tracking systems (such as the Google Chrome OS Management
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Console for Chromebooks), clear lending policies, and community engagement efforts will be critical to
minimizing device loss and maintaining the sustained availability of resources for the community.
Timeline
• Estimated Project Completion Date (Date)
12/31/2026
• Please include a timeline for the activities outlined in the project narrative. Specifically demonstrate
what activities can be accomplished in the first year.
• Year 1 Q1 Milestone Description (Open answer)
This project can begin when funds are awarded. There are several immediate tasks to be completed:
- The purchase of materials (devices, licenses, and accessories).
- Develop a user survey for inclusion in kits.
- Assemble, catalog, and distribute kits to County libraries.
- Train staff on how to deploy and troubleshoot Chromebooks and hotspots.
- Market lending programs and Internet Literacy classes.
• Year 1 Q2 Milestone Description (Open answer)
Gather quarterly circulation statistics. Goals for Y1Q2 are (based on projections from previous lending
programs as well as comparable programs from similar library systems):
- Hotposts: 85 circulations
- Chromebooks: 80 circulations
Implement Internet Literacy classes at 2 library branches and gather participant feedback.
• Year 1 Q3 Milestone Description (Open answer)
Gather quarterly circulation statistics. Goals for Y1Q3 are:
- Hotposts: 89 circulations (5% increase)
- Chromebooks: 84 circulations (5% increase)
Implement Internet Literacy classes at 2 library branches and gather participant feedback.
• Year 1 Q4 Milestone Description (Open answer)
Gather quarterly circulation statistics. Goals for Y1Q4 are:
- Hotposts: 94 circulations (5% increase)
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- Chromebooks: 89 circulations (5% increase)
Implement Internet Literacy classes at 2 library branches and gather participant feedback.
Analyze results of device user and class participant surveys and make necessary adjustments to project
going into year 2.
• Year 2 Q1 Milestone Description (Open answer)
Gather quarterly circulation statistics. Goals for Y2Q1 are:
- Hotposts: 104 circulations (10% increase)
- Chromebooks: 98 circulations (10% increase)
Implement Internet Literacy classes at 2 library branches and gather participant feedback.
• Year 2 Q2 Milestone Description (Open answer)
Gather quarterly circulation statistics. Goals for Y2Q2 are:
- Hotposts: 120 circulations (15% increase)
- Chromebooks: 113 circulations (15% increase)
Implement Internet Literacy classes at 2 library branches and gather participant feedback.
• Year 2 Q3 Milestone Description (Open answer)
Gather quarterly circulation statistics. Goals for Y2Q3 are:
- Hotposts: 150 circulations (25% increase)
- Chromebooks: 113 circulations (25% increase)
Implement Internet Literacy classes at 2 library branches and gather participant feedback.
• Year 2 Q4 Milestone Description (Open answer)
Continue to gather circulation statistics.
Analyze results of device user and class participant surveys and make necessary adjustments to project.
Organize findings and outcomes for final project reporting.
Budget
Itemized budget and cost estimates:
- 40 Chromebooks - $200 each = $8,000.00
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- 40 Chromebook sleeves - $20 each = $800.00
- 40 Wireless mice for Chromebooks - $15 each = $600.00
- 40 Chromebook kit bags - $20 each = $800.00
- 40 Chromebook Management licenses - $115 per device = $4,600.00
- 100 AT&T Hotspots – Free under Bridging Communities offer = $0
- 100 AT&T Hotspot 50G data plan - $15 per month per device (30 months) = $45,000.00
- 100 Hotspot kit cases - $10 each = $1,000.00
- TOTAL = $61,300.00
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agenda item.docx Page 1 of 1
Board Meeting
Agenda Item
MEETING DATE: January 16, 2024
TO: HARNETT COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
SUBJECT: Acceptance of Grant Funding from OSBM
REQUESTED BY: Administration (Ally Fouts Gaines)
REQUEST:
Harnett County has been awarded four directed grants from the State of North
Carolina for the 2023-24 Fiscal Year through the Office of State Budget and
Management (OSBM). Grant 20284 is for the purchase of a body scanner and related
equpment for the sheriff's office. Grant 20285 will be subawarded to a list of local
subrecipients to provide upgrades and improvements to services within the County.
Grant 20286 is for the purchase of a standby power generator and related equipment
for the detention center. Grant 20287 is for land acquisition activities or capital
improvements.
These grants do not require matches. Administration is requesting a motion to accept
the grant awards and authorize the County Manager to sign the final grant agreement
when it is received.
FINANCE OFFICER’S RECOMMENDATION:
COUNTY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION:
Item 8
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Item 9
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1
AN ORDINANCE OF THE COUNTY OF HARNETT IMPOSING A TEMPORARY
MORATORIUM ON DEVELOPMENT APPROVALS IN SPECIFIC GEOGRAPHIC AREAS
OF THE RAWLS CHURCH ROAD AND U.S. HIGHWAY 401 CORRIDOR
WHEREAS, §160D-107 of the North Carolina General Statutes authorizes local
governments to adopt temporary moratoria on any development approval required by law for a
reasonable duration; and
WHEREAS, the intersection of Rawls Church Road and U.S. Highway 401 (the
“Intersection”) in its current configuration poses a threat to the health, safety, and welfare of the
citizens of the County of Harnett (the “County”) and other individuals that travel through the
County; and
WHEREAS, the North Carolina Department of Transportation (“NCDOT”) has
determined that certain improvements at the Intersection are necessary to increase safety and that
such improvements include the signalization of the Intersection; and
WHEREAS, NCDOT does not intend to make the necessary improvements until the
second half of 2024 or the beginning of 2025; and
WHEREAS, the Harnett County Board of Commissioners (the “Board”) is concerned for
the public health, safety, and welfare of the public and determined that immediate actions are
required to protect their health, safety, and welfare until such time that NCDOT is able to make
improvements to the Intersection; and
WHEREAS, the Board called a public hearing on _______ 2024 in accordance with
§160D-107 of the North Carolina General Statutes to receive and consider comments regarding a
proposed temporary moratorium on development approvals in the area of the Intersection; and
WHEREAS, the Board has determined that it is necessary and prudent to adopt an
ordinance to impose a temporary moratorium on development approvals in the area of the
Intersection until such time that NCDOT begins the construction of signals at the Intersection or
some other temporary measure is enacted to improve the safety of that specific area prior to the
completion of the signalization project.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED by the Harnett County Board of
Commissioners, the following ordinance is hereby adopted:
Section 1. Title and Areas Affected
This Ordinance shall be known and cited as the “Ordinance of the County of Harnett to
Impose a Temporary Moratorium on Development Approvals in Specific Geographic Areas of
the Rawls Church Road and U.S. Highway 401 Corridor” (hereinafter referred to as the
“Ordinance”). The Ordinance shall apply to the areas depicted on the map attached hereto as
Item 10
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Exhibit A, except for those projects and developments that are exempt pursuant to Section 5 of
this Ordinance.
Section 2. Required Statements:
1) The County’s statement of the problems or conditions necessitating the Ordinance
and what courses of action, alternative to a moratorium, were considered by the
County and why those alternative courses of action were not deemed adequate.
Rawls Church Road and the portion of U.S. Highway 401 in Harnett County are
both two-lane rural roadways with U.S. Highway 401 serving as a major
thoroughfare through the County. These two roadways intersect in the Northwest
portion of the County, which is a rapidly developing area with a number of
existing and proposed developments, including large-scale residential subdivisions.
In the area of the Intersection, the daily average traffic count is 8,200 daily trips on
U.S. Highway 401 and 1,100 daily trips on Rawls Church Road, which is a high
volume of vehicles for a rural area with predominately agricultural and residential
land uses. As a result of the high volume of traffic, there have been six (6) frontal
crashes in 2022 including one fatal injury, and sixteen (16) frontal accidents and
two (2) rear-end accidents in the previous three years at or near the Intersection.
Based upon a study by NCDOT, signalization of the Intersection is necessary to
increase the safety of the Intersection. Prior to the adoption of this Ordinance, the
Board considered the adoption of a temporary holding zone” ordinance, which
would prohibit a change to denser zoning classifications or other classifications
that would increase the volume of traffic on or near the Intersection. The Board
determined that this was an insufficient course of action as any new development
would continue to exacerbate the problem by allowing more traffic on these
roadways prior to NCDOT’s completion of improvements at the Intersection. The
Board also requested that NCDOT immediately erect a four-way stop at the
Intersection as a temporary measure; however, NCDOT made the determination
that this temporary measure would create additional traffic hazards and would not
serve the purpose of protecting the health, safety, and welfare of the public. As
such, the only viable course of action is to enact a moratorium to temporarily cease
new development until NCDOT could pursue other viable measures.
2) The County’s statement of the development approvals subject to the Ordinance and
how a moratorium on those approvals will address the problems or conditions
leading to the adoption of the Ordinance.
This Ordinance shall apply to all residential, commercial, and industrial
applications for building permits for new construction, applications for site plan
approval, special use permits, zoning compliance permits, and preliminary plat
approvals for major and minor subdivisions on all property within the area
identified in Exhibit A. A moratorium on these approvals will allow sufficient time
for NCDOT to either expedite the process to signalize the intersection or install
temporary measures to address the immediate and serious safety concerns in this
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part of the County. The moratorium will not decrease the current amount of traffic
at this Intersection; however, withholding these permits and approvals will
generally maintain the status-quo during NCDOT’s planning and construction
phases of the project. This Ordinance shall not apply to building permits (interior
and exterior) for any existing residential, commercial, and industrial structures or
building permits for new and existing accessory structures.
3) A date for termination of the Ordinance and the County’s statement setting forth
why that duration is reasonably necessary to address the problems or conditions
leading to the adoption of the Ordinance.
This Ordinance shall expire one hundred twenty (120) days from the effective date
unless otherwise extended by the Board. This one hundred twenty (120) day
moratorium will allow NCDOT to begin preparation and potentially construction
of the signalization project or to install some other temporary measure that can
increase the health, safety, and welfare of the public. Additionally, if construction
of the signalization of the project is not underway by the expiration of the
Ordinance, the moratorium will create a delay in the construction of any new
residential, commercial, and industrial projects, thus affording additional time for
NCDOT to complete the signalization project prior to an increase in traffic
produced by such new construction.
4) A statement of the actions, and the schedule of those actions, proposed to be taken
by the County during the duration of the moratorium to address the problems or
conditions leading to imposition of the moratorium.
During the effective date of this Ordinance, the following actions and proposed
schedule for the actions are to be taken: (a) County officials will meet with
NCDOT within the first 30 days to discuss alternative temporary measures that can
be installed at the intersection prior to the completion of the signalization project;
(b) County officials will assist NCDOT in resolving any right-of-way issues with
that are affected by the signalization project prior to June 18, 2024; and (c) Harnett
County Development Services will draft a new section of the Harnett County
Unified Development Ordinance regarding a requirement for proposed
developments to conduct a traffic impact analysis prior to June 18, 2024.
Section 5. Exempt Projects.
The following projects shall be exempt from this Ordinance:
1) Any project for which a valid building permit issued pursuant to G.S. §160D-
1108 is outstanding.
2) Any project for which a special use permit application has been accepted as
complete.
3) Development set forth in a site-specific vesting plan approved pursuant to G.S.
§160D-108.1.
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4) Development for which substantial expenditures have already been made in good-
faith reliance on a prior valid development approval.
5) Any preliminary subdivision plat accepted for review by the County prior to the
effective date of this Ordinance.
6) Any project conducted by a public utility or public agency.
7) Any project or development that requires a waiver of the moratorium to ensure
the health, safety, and welfare of the public.
Section 6. Severability.
Any part or provision of this Ordinance found by a court of competent jurisdiction to be
legally invalid, void, or unenforceable is hereby deemed severable and shall not affect the
validity of the remaining provisions of this Ordinance.
Section 7. Effective Date.
This Ordinance shall be effective February 19, 2024.
Adopted this the ______day of February, 2024.
THE HARNETT COUNTY BOARD OF
COMMISSIONERS
________________________
William Morris, Chairman
ATTEST:
______________________________
Melissa D. Capps, Clerk to the Board
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Page 1
JANUARY 16, 2024 APPOINTMENTS NEEDED
DANGEROUS DOG COMMITTEE
There is one (1) vacancy for an alternate on this Board. The vacancy is not district sensitive.
We have received an application from Steven Reeves, who would like to be considered for
appointment.
HARNETT COUNTY COMMISSION FOR WOMEN AND YOUTH
There are four (4) vacancies on this Board, District 2, 3, 4, and 5.
HISTORIC PROPERTIES COMMISSION
There is one (1) vacancy on this Board. The vacancy is for District 5. The qualification of members
pursuant to Section 2.2 of the Historic Properties Commission Ordinance state, “A majority of the
member of the HPC shall have demonstrated special interest, experience or education in history,
architecture, archaeology, or related fields.”
We have received an application from Sion H. Harrington, III, who would like to be considered for
appointment. If appointed he would fill the vacancy in District 5 pursuant Section 2.1 of the ordinance
which states “the Board of Commissioners may select no more than two qualified candidates from the
same district.”
HOME & COMMUNITY BLOCK GRANT COMMITTEE
There is one (1) vacancy for an older consumer on this Board.
JUVENILE CRIME PREVENTION COUNCIL
There are two (2) vacancies on this Board. The vacancies are not district sensitive but are position
specific, as County Commissioner Appointee.
BOARD OF EQUALIZATION AND REVIEW
We have received an application from Robert Doberstein, II, who would like to be considered for
reappointment. He currently serves as the district 5 representative and his term expires February 28.
2024. If reappointed he would serve a two-year term that would expire February 28, 2026. If
reappointed, he will no longer be eligible for additional reappointments as he will have served the
eight-year maximum allowed.
We have received an application from Tracie Turcotte Crowder, who would like to be considered for
reappointment. She currently serves as the district 2 representative and her term expires January 31,
2024. If reappointed she would serve a two-year term that would expire January 31, 2026.
PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES
We have received an application and letter from the Town of Erwin approving Stacy Walsh, who
would like to be considered for reappointment. If reappointed, her term would expire October 31,
2026.
Item 12
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TOWN OF ANGIER
The Town of Angier requests approval of Eric Julien’s appointment for a one-year term to serve on
both the Angier Planning Board and Board of Adjustment. Term will expire December 30, 2024. This
appointment is to fill an ETJ member’s appointment of an unfinished term. (Application attached).
The Town of Angier requests approval of Everette Blake’s appointment for a two-year term to serve
on both the Angier Planning Board and Board of Adjustment. Term will be from December 30, 2024 –
December 31, 2025. (Application attached).
JUVENILE CRIME PREVENTION COUNCIL
The creation, method of appointment, and membership are governed by N.C.G.S. §143B-846.
Carl Davis would like to be considered for reappointment. His term expires October 31, 2023. He is
the Parks & Recreation representative.
Cindy Delgado would like to be considered for reappointment. Her term expires October 31, 2023.
She fills the Commissioner Appointee seat.
Mary Spell would like to be considered for reappointment. Her term expires October 31, 2023. She
fills the Director AMH/DD/SA designation.
Avis Watkins Smith would like to be considered for reappointment. Her term expires October 31,
2023. She fills the local health director designation.
HARNETT COUNTY JETPORT BOARD
Mr. Cecil Edgerton would like to be considered for reappointment. His term expires December 31, 2023.
He currently serves as the district 2 representative.
HARNETT COUNTY PLANNING BOARD
Everette Blake currently serves on this Board and his term will expire January 31, 2024. Due to the
redistricting, he will not be eligible for reappointment to serve as the district 4 representative. Mr. Scott
Tart currently serves as an alternate on this Board and has expressed an interest in filling the district 4
seat that will be vacated by Mr. Blake.
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