11-06-2023 Agenda Packet BOCPERSON COUNTY
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
MEETING AGENDA
304 South Morgan Street, Room 215
Roxboro, NC 27573-5245
336-597-1720
Fax 336-599-1609
November 6, 2023
7:00 p.m.
This meeting will convene in Room 215 of the County Office Building.
CALL TO ORDER………………………………………………….. Chairman Powell
INVOCATION
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
DISCUSSION/ADJUSTMENT/APPROVAL OF AGENDA
INFORMAL COMMENTS
The Person County Board of Commissioners established a 10-minute segment,
which is open for informal comments and/or questions from citizens of this
county on issues, other than those issues for which a public hearing has been
scheduled. The time will be divided equally among those wishing to comment.
It is requested that any person who wishes to address the Board, register with
the Clerk to the Board prior to the meeting.
ITEM #1
DISCUSSION/ADJUSTMENT/APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA A.Approval of Minutes of October 16, 2023(pgs. 4-31),
B.Resolution Amending the Board of Commissioners 2023 Meeting Schedule to
add a Strategic Planning Retreat(pgs. 32-34),C.Budget Amendment #10(pgs. 35-36), andD.Person County Health Department Fee Schedule Amendment related to RSV
vaccinations(pgs. 37-38)
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NEW BUSINESS:
ITEM #2 (pgs. 39-41)
Resolution Supporting Operation Green Light
For Veterans…………………………………………………… Thomas Schwalenberg
ITEM #3 (pgs. 42-46)
Person County Prepare Mass Notification System………….. Thomas Schwalenberg
ITEM #4 (pgs. 47-54)
Division of Community Risk Reduction……………………… Thomas Schwalenberg
ITEM#5 (pgs. 55-60)
Options for Organization and Governance of Human
Services Agencies………………………………………………. Katherine Cathey
CHAIRMAN’S REPORT
MANAGER’S REPORT
COMMISSIONER REPORTS/COMMENTS
CLOSED SESSION #1
A motion to enter into Closed Session # 1 per General Statute 143-318.11(a)(5) to
establish, or to instruct the public body's staff or negotiating agents concerning the
position to be taken by or on behalf of the public body in negotiating (i) the price
and other material terms of a contract or proposed contract for the acquisition of
real property by purchase, option, exchange, or lease; or (ii) the amount of
compensation and other material terms of an employment contract or proposed
employment contract with the following individuals permitted to attend: County
Manager Katherine Cathey, Clerk to the Board Michele Solomon, County Attorney
Ellis Hankins, Finance Director Amy Wehrenberg, and PCC President Dr. Pamela
G. Senegal.
CLOSED SESSION #2
A motion to enter into Closed Session # 2 per General Statute 143-318.11(a)(5) to
establish, or to instruct the public body's staff or negotiating agents concerning the
position to be taken by or on behalf of the public body in negotiating (i) the price
and other material terms of a contract or proposed contract for the acquisition of
real property by purchase, option, exchange, or lease; or (ii) the amount of
compensation and other material terms of an employment contract or proposed
employment contract with the following individuals permitted to attend: County
Manager Katherine Cathey, Clerk to the Board Michele Solomon, County Attorney
Ellis Hankins, General Services Director Ray Foushee, and Finance Director Amy
Wehrenberg.
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CLOSED SESSION #3
A motion to enter into Closed Session # 3 per General Statute 143-318.11(a)(6) for
the purpose to discuss personnel with the following individuals permitted to attend:
County Manager Katherine Cathey and Clerk to the Board Michele Solomon.
Note: All Items on the Agenda are for Discussion and Action as deemed appropriate
by the Board.
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October 16, 2023
PERSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OCTOBER 16, 2023
MEMBERS PRESENT OTHERS PRESENT
Gordon Powell Katherine M. Cathey, County Manager
C. Derrick Sims Michele Solomon, Clerk to the Board
Kyle W. Puryear S. Ellis Hankins, County Attorney
Charlie Palmer
Jason Thomas
The Board of Commissioners for the County of Person, North Carolina, met in
regular session on Monday, October 16, 2023 at 9:00 a.m.in the Commissioners’ Boardroom
215 in the Person County Office Building located at 304 S. Morgan Street, Roxboro, NC.
Chairman Powell called the meeting to order. Commissioner Sims offered an
invocation and Commissioner Puryear led the group in the Pledge of Allegiance.
DISCUSSION/ADJUSTMENT/APPROVAL OF AGENDA:
A motion was made by Commissioner Puryear and carried 5-0 to approve the
agenda as adjusted with the deletion of Closed Session #2.
INFORMAL COMMENTS:
The following individuals appeared before the Board to make informal comments:
Theresa Matthews of 788 Huff Garrett Rd, Roxboro spoke on matters related to
broadband and fiber optic internet accessibility. Matthews advised she is also here on behalf
of her neighbors, Robert Leeds of 175 Hidden Hills Rd, Tamara Finn of 61 Hidden Hills
Rd, Sherrie Westbrooks of 293 Hidden Hills Rd, John Penne of 11 Hidden Hills Rd, Virginia
Kline of 954 Huff Garrett Rd, and Tracey Simpson of 920 Huff Garrett Rd. Matthews stated
on October 9, Jeffrey Brooks of the Broadband Infrastructure Office at the NC Department
of Information Technology, informed her that her address was currently not listed in the
Broadband Grant Program eligible area. She stated she is crippled with slow DSL internet
at a mere 8 megabits per second. Matthews stated that in review of the Boards’ October 3,
2022 meeting, it is her understanding that Person County allocated $2.75 M to address the
rural internet inequities that exist. Matthews stated that high-speed internet access is no
longer an amenity but a necessity to all. Matthews stated the COVID era has redefined the
workforce and school settings. Matthews stated that she is appealing to the Board to include
her subdivision, Olive Hills, for fiber optic internet.
Elizabeth Bradsher of 976 Estate Rd, Roxboro spoke on matters related to foster care
and Person County Department of Social Services. Bradsher stated that there are
approximately 90 children currently in Foster Care in Person County, with only 10 Foster
Care Families to assist. Bradsher stated that there needed to be an investigation into the
mismanagement and practices of Person County DSS. Bradsher stated that it is her belief,
upon information received, that there is a problem of cronyism, leading to corruption and
mismanagement at DSS.
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Bradsher stated that if you investigate DSS, you would see the potential relationships
that are within the organization. Bradsher stated that former Commissioner PJ Gentry
uncovered this issue 2 years ago, with no action taken. Bradsher suggested to the Board, the
need for an independent DSS Management Auditor, which could provide a report to review
the practices, management, HR, and positions at DSS. Bradsher advised a coalition is
forming in Person County and outreach is taking place. Bradsher provided recent national
headlines on foster care children. Bradsher stated that a child’s life is like a piece of paper,
on which every person leaves a mark.
Sabrina Verrier of 4196 Oxford Rd, Roxboro advised that she is a foster parent in
Person County. She spoke on matters related to Person County DSS. Verrier stated she
experienced many issues with Person County DSS, to include legal issues, the process of
foster care, and the lack of communication from employees and Director Carlton Paylor.
Verrier stated all children, biological parents and foster parents in the system experience
ambiguous loss, defined as, grieving someone that is still living which is a different form of
grief than when someone you love dies. Verrier stated she is asking for transparency and
change. Verrier stated the potential of adding people such as herself and Ms. DeYoung to
a new board, as they are willing to help, and are uniquely positioned to see the sides that
they do not see.
Faye Castaneda of 921 Streets Store Rd, Roxboro advised that she is a neighbor of
the DeYoung Family, who has had issues with Person County DSS recently. Castaneda
stated that she fully supports the DeYoung Family with the issues surrounding DSS.
Castaneda stated that it breaks her heart to see the boys with a mother they do not know.
DISCUSSION/ADJUSTMENT/APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA:
A motion was made by Commissioner Puryear and carried 5-0 to approve the
Consent Agenda with the following items:
A. Approval of Minutes of October 2, 2023,
B. Budget Amendment #9,
C. Animal Services Fee Schedule Amendment,
D. Consideration of Approval of Late Exemption Tax Applications, and
E. Tax Adjustments for October 2023
a. Tax Releases
b. NC Vehicle Tax System pending refunds
NEW BUSINESS:
RESOLUTION OF SUPPORT FOR THE UPPER NEUSE RIVER BASIN
ASSOCIATION (UNRBA) CONSENSUS PRINCIPLES II TO GUIDE REVISIONS
TO THE FALLS LAKE RULES
Planning and Zoning Director Chris Bowley introduced Forrest Westall,
Executive Director of the UNRBA. Mr. Westall shared the following
presentation.
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Commissioner Palmer stated that he was a member of a fishing club in the 80’s
and 90’s and fished Falls Lake. Palmer stated the lake and shorelines that he encountered
were very shallow. Palmer stated in the past, the lake had a lot of contamination by septic
tanks and human waste. Palmer had concerns about when the summer months come
around that the water levels will decrease, and questioned if there were any thoughts on
digging the lake deeper around the shoreline and dredging it. Westall responded by saying
that there have been discussions of dredging and digging the lake deeper. Westall stated it
would definitely help and improve the lake, and that it could be done if someone funded
this project. Westall stated he has been involved in the Federal Clean Water Act, which
has a clean lakes provision, and they dredged out a bunch of small lakes to improve them;
however, the cost is extraordinarily high. Westall stated the biggest problem is what to do
with the stuff you dig out, as most of it is done with a hydraulic dredge. Palmer asked if
the lake is Raleigh’s main source of water to which Westall responded yes, it is Raleigh’s
main source of water supply. Palmer stated there is a lot of money in Raleigh. Westall
stated that 40-50% of funding for the UNRBA comes from Raleigh. Westall advised that
Falls Lake is a drowned river and not a natural lake. Westall stated an extensive study had
been completed for the bottom of Falls Lake to include, the depth of the sediments, and
the depth of the lake. Westall stated the study provided a good picture of the shallow areas
of the lake, with the deepest section below Highway 98. Westall stated that it would have
been better to dredge the lake at the time it was built, but that did not happen.
Vice Chairman Sims stated that he grew up on the lake; he was there when the
dam was built, and his family owned land that was flooded and dealt with the Corps of
Engineers, who were not easy to work with. Sims stated that it was a great thing when
they put the lake in, but as Commissioner Palmer stated, it is a shallow lake. Sims stated
that he has seen boats run there props up on stumps, and has seen accidents by people
thinking they are in 10 feet of water yet actually only in 2 feet of water. Sims stated that it
is a dangerous lake, especially if you do not know the lake, which is compounded by its
being a flooded river. Sims stated development and subdivisions around the lake have
increased and the run off has to go somewhere. Sims stated in his opinion the run off has
to go to Falls Lake. Sims stated here in Person County we are handcuffed so to speak with
some of the regulations they put in place, when it is areas such as Raleigh, Durham, and
Chapel Hill polluting the lake not Person County. Sims stated that he would like to see
less restrictions and regulations here in Person County, but that is going to take the
Legislature and the Corps of Engineers.
County Attorney Hankins stated that his first legal job was a legal intern for the
Corps of Engineers, in Wilmington, helping to acquire the land for what became Falls
Lake. Hankins stated years later, he stood in the General Assembly, representing
municipalities, and worked with the regulators in reference to issues with watershed
protection law, phosphorous detergent ban, water supply, stormwater utility fee bills, and
planning law. Hankins stated the municipalities kept telling the Legislature, the
department in developing rules, needed to address water pollution and nutrient
contribution issues, and the need to be focused on science-based rules to apply the rules to
everyone fairly, with no unachievable requirements. Hankins stated local governments,
throughout the Upper Neuse River basin have come together to address issues
cooperatively and responsibly.
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Hankins stated he commends the resolution and consensus principles to guide
revisions to the Falls Lake rules and feels it is in Person County’s interest.
Chairman Powell stated that the County looks to Mr. Westall and the UNRBA as
well as the local Planning Director to protect and look out for the best interest of the
people of Person County. Powell stated Person County had been enormously impacted by
the stormwater rules and regulations. Powell stated that he values the rural farmland here
in Person County. He stated the farmers are in tune with the nutrient levels they put out
with their cropland, and are being good stewards of the land. Powell stated this is
important to economic growth moving forward. He stated the County is blessed to have
three watersheds in Person County, however it is also cursed by the Upper Neuse, which is
an important issue facing Person County. Powell advised he has read over the resolution,
and hopes it will be effective to Person County. He asked about re-visiting this in the
future. Westall replied that it needed to be included in the rules. He stated that it needed to
be a requirement and make sure that the State pays for its portion. Westall stated Person
County UNRBA contributions paid for the ten-year study, which is unprecedented as it is
not typical for local governments to pay for the study. Powell stated that the State should
be taking care of this and not the local taxpayers. The UNRBA and the watershed
organization needed to work with the State to do an evaluation every five years with a big
evaluation in twenty-five years, as you need to evaluate the watershed as it changes.
Westall stated that Person County has one vote, as does Raleigh with the UNRBA.
Westall stated that Raleigh has complained about the money they have put in, to which he
advised them, they needed to stay in. Westall stated that his job was to represent everyone
that is a member of the UNRBA equally. Westall stated Planning Director Chris Bowley,
attends the UNRBA meetings, and urged the only way to stay involved and engaged is to
attend the meetings. Westall advised he has been with the UNRBA for twelve years and
hopes to see new rules adopted.
Commissioner Puryear stated that he hopes some good will come out of this.
Puryear stated that when the watershed first started and was introduced by Jim Wrenn, the
County fought it as long as they could and voted against it. Puryear stated by that time it
was State regulated and the County was to be fined $25K a day until they came into
compliance. Puryear stated that he valued the work Westall has done, and hopes that we
can ease the burden on Person County taxpayers.
A motion was made by Commissioner Puryear and carried 5-0 to approve the
Resolution of Support for the Upper Neuse River Basin Association Consensus Principles
II to Guide Revisions to the Falls Lake Rules.
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OPTIONS FOR ORGANIZATION AND GOVERNANCE OF HUMAN
SERVICES AGENCIES
County Manager Katherine Cathey introduced Kristi Nickodem, Robert W.
Bradshaw Jr. Distinguished Term Assistant Professor of Public Law and Government at
UNC School of Government. Ms. Nickodem shared the following presentation.
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Currently, 30 counties have consolidated human services agencies. 29 of those
agencies include both public health and social services (Cabarrus County includes
social services, but not public health). Some include a variety of other services as
well, such as veterans’ services, aging and adult services, transportation, or
domestic violence/rape crisis services.
Of the 30 counties with a consolidated human services agency, 16 counties have
appointed CHS boards, while 14 counties have consolidated human services
agencies that are governed directly by the BOCC.
In 25 counties, the Board of Commissioners has abolished the appointed DSS
board and now acts as the governing board for social services. In 11 of those
counties, they are governing a standalone DSS. In 14 of those counties, the county
has also created a CHSA, so the BOCC is acting as the governing board for the
CHSA.
In 17 counties, the BOCC acts as the governing board for public health. In 4 of
those counties, they are governing a standalone health department. In 13 of
those counties, the county has created a CHSA, so the BOCC is acting as the
governing board for the CHSA.
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The vast majority of counties have retained traditional organization and governance
structures, despite lots of experimentation and changes. But the highest population
counties have largely opted to form CHSAs.
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Commissioner Palmer provided statistical information of job postings and vacancies
at DSS spanning from February 2022- October 2023. Palmer stated based on the information
he received from Person County HR department; there have been 49 job postings for
positions at DSS during the past 18 months. County Manager Cathey clarified that each job
posting does not necessarily signify an employee has left resulting in creating a vacancy.
Cathey advised that DSS does have a higher employee turnover rate. Cathey stated that
some positions are duplicate and re-posted due to not being filled. Cathey stated that some
of the positions are from promotions within the organization, therefore creating a vacancy,
or from newly approved positions. Cathey advised she would follow up to the Board with
numbers from people leaving the organization.
Vice Chairman Sims stated it is a tough job to have with the DSS. Sims stated it is
definitely not an easy job, and you hear more negative than positive. He stated he
appreciated the presentation and found it to be informative. Sims stated it would aid the
Board on options they have to make a determination on what is best for Person County, and
how to proceed.
Chairman Powell stated that this situation is extremely important. Powell stated that
the majority of DSS population cannot help themselves and we need to intervene,
particularly for the children. He asked Nickodem for clarification on board structure and
consolidation as well as employee structure due to SHRA. Nickodem clarified structure and
consolidation of boards and employee structure. Powell expressed thanks to Nickodem for
providing an informative presentation.
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Sims had questions relating to funding and legal issues. Nickodem advised there
would be no changes in the funding as well as no changes on how situations would be
handled legally if the governance or organizational structure changes. Hankins spoke on the
legal aspects of the CHSA and stated that it does not change the entire scope of liability, as
the County could still be named as a Defendant, if a lawsuit were to be filed. Sims had
concerns in reference to timeline, if the Board chooses to move forward with consolidation.
Nickodem stated it would depend on the County as to how quickly they choose to move
forward.
Commissioner Puryear thanked Nickodem for her informative presentation and for
her explanation of the different options associated with consolidation. Puryear had questions
as to the composition of the CHSA Board. Nickodem clarified the CHSA Board
composition and structure.
CHAIRMAN’S REPORT:
Chairman Powell reported the following:
Attended the Airport Committee Meeting and advised it was productive, there
were discussions referencing the runway extension project, and construction of a
new terminal.
On-site visit and meeting at the Mega Park with a prospect at their request. The
property owner was asked to attend; however, they were not present.
He and the County Manager attended an EQV Zoom Meeting regarding legislative
updates on the newly adopted budget and how it might impact Person County.
Attended Duke Energy Zoom Board Meeting. Powell stated Duke Energy
interviewed him and the primary question asked was, how has Duke Energy
impacted Person County. Powell stated Person County is where they are
economically today because of Duke Energy’s presence over the past six decades,
and looks forward to continuing to work with Duke Energy with the possibility of
the proposed combined cycle plant in Person County.
MANAGER’S REPORT:
County Manager Katherine Cathey reported that the Charters of Freedom Dedication
Ceremony would be November 2 at 4 p.m., and is open to the public. Cathey advised the
Foundation Forward organization would be providing promotional material for the event.
Cathey stated the 2025 Tax Re-Appraisal has begun, and will take approximately 16
months to complete. She advised the first step would be updating photos of properties. She
advised that the Tax website has been updated to reflect pictures of the appraisers and the
vehicles they would be driving.
Cathey provided a broadband update. She stated that Charter is completing projects
within the County with federal funding they received. Cathey stated Zitel received one of
the GREAT Grant Awards from the State, they are still in the engineering phase for their
project, and we hope to see them starting soon. She stated Brightspeed received the second
GREAT Grant Award from the State, the County has signed an agreement with them, and
they should be starting their project soon.
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Cathey stated the next phase is the CAB Program through the State, Completing
Access to Broadband, and the County is eligible for $8M from the state in the first year of
this program. She advised the County has $2.5M in ARPA funding to use towards
broadband expansion. Cathey stated the next step would be for County staff to work with
staff at the State level to create a map of eligible addresses within Person County. Once
completed, the map would be released to the providers to respond with proposals for serving
those addresses. She stated the criteria for identifying eligible addresses would be different
from the criteria used with the other grant-funded programs. Cathey stated in those cases,
only addresses that were deemed unserved by the criteria could be eligible for the grant
award. She stated that those definitions have evolved, and would be seeking to serve
unserved as well as underserved addresses with the CAB Program. Cathey advised that this
would open up many more addresses that are eligible. She stated that the objective is to
reach as many addresses as possible through this next round of funding, then ultimately
working towards serving 100% of the population of Person County.
COMMISSIONER REPORT/COMMENTS:
Vice Chairman Sims reported that he attended and worked the Personality Festival
and the Concert in Uptown Roxboro. Sims stated the event was successful, the weather was
great, and there was a huge turnout from the community, possibly the biggest festival yet.
Commissioner Palmer thanked Vice Chairman Sims for helping with the Personality
Festival.
Palmer reported that he met with Person County Tourism Development Authority
Executive Director Julie Maybee and stated that she is a pleasure to work with and we are
lucky to have her.
Palmer reported that Chandler Concrete donated the concrete pads for the Charters
of Freedom at Huck Sansbury Complex.
Commissioners Puryear and Thomas had no report.
CLOSED SESSION #1
A motion was made by Commissioner Sims and carried 5-0 to enter into Closed
Session #1 at 10:52 a.m. per General Statute 143-318.11(a)(5) to establish, or to instruct
the public body's staff or negotiating agents concerning the position to be taken by or on
behalf of the public body in negotiating (i) the price and other material terms of a contract
or proposed contract for the acquisition of real property by purchase, option, exchange, or
lease; or (ii) the amount of compensation and other material terms of an employment
contract or proposed employment contract with the following individuals permitted to
attend: County Manager Katherine Cathey, Clerk to the Board Michele Solomon, County
Attorney Ellis Hankins, General Services Director Ray Foushee, and Finance Director
Amy Wehrenberg.
Chairman Powell called the Closed Session #1 to order at 10:56 a.m.
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A motion was made by Commissioner Puryear and carried 5-0 to return to open
session at 11:34 a.m.
ADJOURNMENT:
A motion was made by Commissioner Sims and carried 5-0 to adjourn the meeting
at 11:34 a.m.
_____________________________ ______________________________
Michele Solomon Gordon Powell
Clerk to the Board Chairman
(Draft Board minutes are subject to Board approval)
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AGENDA ABSTRACT
Meeting Date: November 6, 2023
Agenda Title: Amendment to Board of Commissioners 2023 Meeting Schedule to Add Strategic
Planning Retreat
Summary of Information: At the conclusion of the October 24, 2023 Strategic Planning Retreat,
the Board of Commissioners voted to add a second retreat on December 7, 2023, from 9 a.m.-noon,
to continue the work of establishing a new strategic plan. The retreat will be held in the
Commissioners’ Boardroom 215 in the Person County Office Building.
Recommended Action: Amend the Board of Commissioners 2023 Meeting Schedule to add the
December 7 Strategic Planning Retreat.
Submitted By: Katherine M. Cathey, County Manager
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Resolution Establishing
2023 Schedule of Regular Meetings for the
Person County Board of Commissioners
WHEREAS, NC General Statute 153A-40 requires boards of commissioners to hold a regular-scheduled
meeting at least once a month; and
WHEREAS, the Person County Board of Commissioners meets in its Commissioners' Boardroom 215 in
the Person County Office Building, located at 304 S. Morgan Street in Roxboro, North Carolina, unless
otherwise noted below.
WHEREAS, an amendment took place on January 17, 2023 to set the location of the February 21, 2023
meeting of the Board of Commissioners, set as its date for the annual budget retreat.
WHEREAS, action of the Board of Commissioners at its meeting on February 6, 2023 to have its meetings
in the Commissioners' Boardroom 215 effective March 2023.
WHEREAS, action of the Board of Commissioners at its meeting on August 7, 2023 to add a strategic
planning retreat on October 24, 2023.
WHEREAS, action of the Board of Commissioners at its meeting on November 6, 2023 to add an
additional strategic planning retreat on December 7, 2023. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED by action of the Person County Board of Commissioners, the following Schedule of Regular
Meetings for 2023 is set forth as following:
January 3, 2023
January 17, 2023
February 6, 2023
(Tuesday)
(Tuesday)
7:00 p.m. County Auditorium**
9:00 a.m. County Auditorium**
7:00 p.m. County Auditorium**
February 21, 2023 (Tuesday) (Retreat)
March 6, 2023
March 20, 2023
April 3, 2023
April 17, 2023
May l, 2023
May 15, 2023
Jun e 5, 2023
June 19, 2023
July 17, 2023
August 7, 2023
August 21, 2023
9:00 a.m. Kirby Upstairs Main Hall*
7:00 p.m.
9:00 a.m.
7:00 p.m.
9:00 a.m.
7:00 p.m.
9:00 a.m.
7:00 p.m.
9:00 a.m.
9:00 a.m.
7:00 p.m.
9:00 a.m. 33
September 5, 2023 (Tuesday)
September 18, 2023
October 2, 2023
October 16, 2023
October 24, 2023
7:00 p.m.
9:00 a.m.
7:00 p.m.
9:00 a.m.
9:00 a.m. County Auditorium**
November 6, 2023
November 20, 2023
December 4, 2023
December 7, 2023
7:00 p.m.
9:00 a.m.
7:00 p.m.
9:00 a.m.
*Kirby Upstairs Main Hall is located within the Kirby Cultural Arts facility at 213 N. Main St, Roxboro,
NC 27573
**County Auditorium is located within the County Office Building at 304 S. Morgan St., Roxboro, NC
27573
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this Resolution shall be posted on the Board of
Commissioners' bulletin board located outside the Commissioners' meeting room 215 of the County Office
Building at least ten (I0) days before the first meeting to which it applies, and that the adopted Schedule of
Meetings dates shall be posted on the County website and distributed with the Sunshine email group.
Adopted this, the 6th day of November 2023.
________________________________
Gordon Powell, Chairman
Person County Board of Commissioners
Attest:
___________________________________
Michele Solomon
Clerk of Board
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Dept./Acct No.Department Name Amount
Incr / (Decr)
EXPENDITURES General Fund
General Government 4,585
Public Safety 1,874
Human Services 326,774
Culture and Recreation 361,025
Contingency (3,650)
REVENUES General Fund
Other Revenues 2,809
Charges for Services 1,025
Fund Balance Appropriation (9,960)
Intergovernmental Revenues 696,734
Explanation:
Account Number Account Description
$Revenues
incr. (decr.)
(cr.) dr.
$Expenditures
incr. (decr.)
dr. (cr.)
100-389890 Miscellaneous Revs 1,874
1004310-435300 Sheriff Office-Maint & Repair/Vehicles 1,874
1009910-499100 Contingency-Undesignated (1,708)
1009910-499300 Contingency-Property & Liability Insurance (1,942)
1004122-445000 Human Resources-Insurance 3,650
10055-361414 P&R-Recreation Fees-Camps/Classes 1,025
1006120-430000 P&R-Contract Services 1,025
10055-361370 P&R-PARTF-County Farm Grant 360,000
1006120-425500 P&R-PARTF-County Farm Expense 360,000
100-389890 Miscellaneous Revs 935
1004121-420000 IT-Supplies 935
10035-337230 PATS-Admin Grant 9,960
10090-399991 General Fund-FBA (9,960)
BUDGET AMENDMENT #10
Receive insurance claim for repair to Sheriff's Office vehicle ($1,874); use remaining Contingency/Property and
Liability budget (-$1,708) and appropriate difference from Contingency/Undesignated line item (-$1,942) for
increase in payment of FY24 property and liability insurance in Human Resources Department due to acquisition
of new EMS ambulance ($3,650); recognize excess revenue in Recreation, Arts and Parks fees for
camps/classes ($1,025) to support contract services; recognize NC PARTF grant from the North Carolina
Department of Natural and Cultural Resources ($360,000) in support of the County Farm Project in Parks and
Recreation Department; receive funds from the sale of used cell phones for the cost of supplies in IT
department ($935); reduce fund balance appropriation (-$9,960) in recognition of additional funding received for
PATS Admin Grant ($9,960); and amend Public Health Department budget in recognition of additional grant
funds received from the State for the ARPA Workforce Development ($244,657) and Child Immunization
Programs ($82,117).
BUDGET ADJUSTMENT
BA-1035
12050-362330 Health-ARPA Workforce Development 244,657
1205110-430000 Pub Health-Contract Services 180,796
1205110-430000 Pub Health-Contract Services 60,352
1205110-372330 Pub Health-Education & Medical Supplies 3,509
12050-371332 Health-Child Immunization Grant 82,117
1205110-372330 Pub Health-Education & Medical Supplies 82,117
Totals 690,608 690,608
BA-1036
AGENDA ABSTRACT
Meeting Date: November 6, 2023
Agenda Title: Person County Health Department Fee Request
Summary of Information:
The Person County Health Department’s proposed fee schedule amendments are
associated with Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccinations. The proposed fees are
for RSV vaccinations for adults and children.
The proposed fees will allow PCHD to receive reimbursement for the RSV vaccine.
The Board of Health approved the Fee Schedule Amendments on Monday, October 23,
2023, and in accordance with the North Carolina General Statute 130A-39(g), the Board
of Health requests the approval of the Board of Commissioners to implement the
proposed fees, which are attached.
Recommended Action: Approve recommended fees.
Submitted By: Janet Clayton, Health Director
37
38
AGENDA ABSTRACT
Meeting Date: November 6, 2023
Agenda Title: Resolution Supporting Operation Green Light for Veterans
Summary of Information: Each year we come together as a nation on Veteran’s Day to honor
and celebrate the hundreds of thousands of brave Americans who have served our country in
uniform.
Now, more than ever, our veterans need our support. In a time when our country is divided on so
many issues, we can agree that those individuals who risked everything to protect our country and
way of life deserve our support and gratitude.
This is why the Person County Veteran’s Council is requesting that the Person County Board of
Commissioners join your colleagues across the nation in supporting Operation Green Light for
Veterans; an initiative to shine light on the service of veterans and their families.
As part of Operation Green Light, the county has illuminated green lights on our County buildings as
a recognition to our veteran community that they are seen, appreciated and supported. Through the
proclamation here tonight, we are asking that the citizens and businesses of Person County, join this
initiative by changing at least one light bulb in their home or entryway from tonight, November 6,
2023 until November 12th, 2023, to thank veterans and their families for their sacrifice and service
to this great nation.
Recommended Action: Adoption of the Resolution as presented.
Submitted By: Thomas E. Schwalenberg, Director / Department of Emergency Services
on behalf of the Person County Veteran’s Council
39
Resolution
Supporting Operation Green Light for Veterans
WHEREAS, the residents of Person County have utmost respect, appreciation and gratitude
for all the men and women who have selflessly served our country and our community in the
U.S. Armed Forces and believe these service members should be granted specific recognition,
and;
WHEREAS, the contributions and sacrifices made by those who have served in the U.S.
Armed Forces have been vital in maintaining the freedoms and way of life enjoyed by our
citizens, and Person County seeks to honor these individuals who have made countless
sacrifices for freedom by placing themselves in harm's way for the good of all, and;
WHEREAS, veterans continue to serve our community in various civic, religious and
community organizations, as well as through civil service and by volunteering at various
community-based events, and;
WHEREAS, members of the Person Country Veterans Council, assist Person County veterans
by serving as a liaison with the community in coordinating services and activities that benefit
and honor local veterans and their families and solicit information and provide updates about
activities honoring veterans in our community, and;
WHEREAS, Person County recognizes the necessity and value of employing a dedicated
Veteran’s Services Officer whose role includes aiding and advocating for local veterans by
helping them navigate the complexities of veteran specific benefits, resources and programs
and ensuring they receive the benefits and assistance they deserve, and;
WHEREAS, approximately 200,000 service members transition to civilian communities
annually, and an estimated 20 percent increase of service members will transition to civilian
life in the near future, and;
WHEREAS, studies indicate that 44-72 percent of service members experience high levels of
stress during transition from military to civilian life; and active military service members
transitioning from military service are at a high risk for suicide during their first year after
military service, and;
40
WHEREAS, as of 2022, 40 percent of transitioning service members stationed in bases
throughout North Carolina decided to stay in North Carolina upon their transition to civilian
life, and 55 percent of service members retiring from the military with 20-plus years of service
also made the decision to stay in North Carolina, and;
WHEREAS, the National Association of Counties encourages all counties, parishes and
boroughs to participate in Operation Green Light for Veterans 2023 by shining green lights
throughout their communities to let local veterans know they are seen, appreciated and
supported, and;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that having officially been designated a "Green Light for
Veterans County," Person County hereby declares now through November 12, 2023 a time to
salute and honor the service and sacrifices of our men and women in uniform, and;
THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that in observance of Operation Green Light
2023, the Person County Board of Commissioners encourages its citizens and businesses to
recognize the importance of honoring all those who made immeasurable sacrifices to preserve
our freedom by displaying green lights in a window of their place of business or residence
from November 6, 2023 through November 12, 2023.
Adopted this 6th day of November 2023, by the Person County Board of Commissioners.
____________________________
Gordon Powell, Chairman
Attest:
________________________________
Michele Solomon, Clerk to the Board
41
AGENDA ABSTRACT
Meeting Date: November 6, 2023
Agenda Title: Launch of “Person County Prepare” Mass Notification System
Summary of Information: Person County Emergency Services has partnered with Rave Mobile
Safety, a mass notification and incident management leader that helps organizations and public
safety agencies communicate and collaborate during emergencies. Person County will be using this
notification system, locally named Person County Prepare, to communicate operational updates and
alerts to County residents and businesses. Registered users will have access to emergency alerts from
Person County including:
• Public safety and emergency-related warnings
• Time-sensitive notifications
• Wide-spread infrastructure service disruptions
Notifications can be customized depending on the type of incident or event and can be configured to
either cover the entire county or target specific areas or neighborhoods for more localized situations.
Person County Prepare is a free service for users that allows them to sign up to receive customized
real-time alerts via text message, email, and voice message at no cost; however, message and data
rates may apply. Anyone who lives, works, visits or travels through Person County can sign up for
this service. Person County Prepare replaces the CodeRED system previously used by the County.
The public launch of this notification system started on November 1, 2023 and a marketing
campaign has been developed to increase our saturation within the community to better keep our
citizens informed during emergencies and disasters.
To register for Person County Prepare, people can visit; https://bit.ly/pcpreparesignup. If anyone
without a computer needs assistance, Person County Public Library staff can assist citizens with
registering for the system or citizens can call 336-330-2233 for assistance.
Recommended Action: No action required.
Submitted By: Thomas E. Schwalenberg, Director / Department of Emergency Services
42
Person County Board of Commissioner’s MeetingNovember 06, 202343
https://bit.ly/pcpreparesignup44
45
Person County Board of Commissioner’s MeetingNovember 06, 202346
AGENDA ABSTRACT
Meeting Date: November 6, 2023
Agenda Title: Division of Community Risk Reduction Introduction
Summary of Information: The Department of Emergency Services underwent a restructuring
with the departure of the previous Fire Marshal this past spring. The Office of the Fire Marshal was
moved underneath the Department of Emergency Services as a separate division within the
Department. In looking at the needs of the community, and in consultation with the County
Manager’s office, it was decided to change the focus of the division from that of solely fire
prevention and enforcement to an innovative concept known as Community Risk Reduction (CRR).
Community Risk Reduction, as defined by the National Fire Protection Association, is a program
that identifies and prioritizes local risks, followed by an integrated and strategic investment of
resources to reduce their occurrence and impact. In short, it is a process that helps communities find
out what their risks are and then develop plans to mitigate or minimize those risks. This is a
collaborative approach that involves all elements of the community to include the citizens,
businesses, community and faith-based groups, non-profits, civic and volunteer organizations.
Working together, the goal of a Community Risk Reduction program is to ensure healthier and safer
communities.
Five key elements of a Community Risk Reduction program are known as the “5 E’s”. These are:
~ Education, Engineering, Enforcement, Economic Incentives, Emergency Response
Once a community risk assessment is completed, these five elements help develop strategies for how
those risks can be addressed. Each CRR program around the country is different because it must
meet the needs of the specific community and will change as the community needs and risk changes.
To lead this new division, the County has hired, Michael Shawn Bradsher. Division Chief Bradsher
is a native of Person County with over 20 years of fire service experience. Chief Bradsher is a Level
III Fire Inspector, a Fire Investigator, A Fire and Life Safety Educator, a certified Fire Officer and a
NC certified Paramedic. Formerly a Captain with Roxboro Fire Department, Chief Bradsher brings a
wealth of fire service education and experience but also a deep local knowledge of the community to
this new position.
Recommended Action: No action required.
Submitted By: Thomas E. Schwalenberg, Director / Department of Emergency Services
47
Division of Community Risk ReductionPERSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONER’S MEETINGNOVEMBER 6, 202348
Department of Emergency ServicesDepartment of Emergency ServicesOffice of Emergency ManagementDivision of Emergency Medical ServicesDivision of Emergency TelecommunicationsDivision of Community Risk Reduction49
Community Risk ReductionNFPA 1300 –“A program that identifies and prioritizes local risks, followed by an integrated and strategic investment of resources to reduce their occurrence and impact.”50
Community Risk AssessmentA Collaborative Approach1. Identify Risks2. Prioritize Risks3. Develop Strategies and Tactics to Mitigate Risks4. Prepare the CRR Plan5. Implement the CRR Plan6. Monitor, Evaluate and Modify the CRR Plan51
5 E’s for Community Risk Reduction StrategiesEducationEngineeringEnforcementEconomic IncentiveEmergency Response52
New Leadership for a Targeted ApproachDivision Chief Michael Shawn BradsherA Targeted Approach◦Fire Prevention vs Community Risk ReductionNext Steps 53
Thank you.54
AGENDA ABSTRACT
Meeting Date: November 6, 2023
Agenda Title: Options for Organization and Governance of Human Services Agencies
Summary of Information: At the October 16, 2023 Board of Commissioners meeting, Kristi A.
Nickodem, Robert W. Bradshaw Jr. Distinguished Term Assistant Professor of Public Law and
Government at the UNC School of Government, presented information on the options for
organization and governance of human services agencies in North Carolina. Having considered the
information presented, the Board of Commissioners will discuss the current structure and whether to
move to a different model in the future.
If the Board of Commissioners decides to assume the powers and duties of another board – which
could be a local board of health, a county board of social services, or a consolidated human services
(CHS) board, it must hold a public hearing. The law requires “30 days’ notice of said public hearing
given in a newspaper having general circulation in said county.” The law does not explicitly state
that a public hearing is required prior to forming a consolidated human services agency (CHSA)
with an appointed CHS board (as opposed to having the Board of Commissioners as the governing
board). However, holding such a hearing with appropriate notice is a best practice, given that the
creation of a CHSA is a significant change for a county and is likely to create many questions from
county residents and human services employees. If the Board of Commissioners decides to move
forward with one of these options, a public hearing could be advertised as soon as Thursday,
November 9. The board’s next two regular meetings fall within the 30-day window (November 16
and December 4). The public hearing could be held during the board’s regularly scheduled meeting
on January 2, 2024 or at another meeting to be scheduled no earlier than Monday, December 11.
Recommended Action: Discuss options for organization and governance of Person County’s human
services agencies and determine next steps.
Submitted By: Katherine M. Cathey, County Manager
55
Options for Organization and Governance of Human Services Agencies 1 56
2 Option A (Current Model) Separate Agencies with Appointed Governing Boards Board of CommissionersDSS Board(partially appointed by BOC, hiring/firing authority for DSS director)DSS Director(subject to SHRA, hiring/firing authority for DSS staff)DSS Staff (subject to SHRA)Health Board (appionted by BOC, hiring/firing authority for Health director)Health Director (subject to SHRA, hiring/firing authority for Health staff)Health Staff(subject to SHRA)57
3 Option B Separate Agencies with Partial BOC Governance Option D CHSA with BOC Governance Board of Commissioners (serves as CHS Board)County Manager (hiring/firing authority for CHSA director with the “advice and consent” of the CHS board)CHSA Director/DSS Director (not subject to SHRA, responsible for appointing the agency’s staff with the county manager’s approval)DSS Staff(not subject to SHRA)Veterans Services Staff Health Board (appointed by BOC, hiring/firing authority for Health Director)Health Director (subject to SHRA, hiring/firing authority for Health staff)Health Staff (subject to SHRA)Board of Commissioners(serves as DSS Board, hiring/firing authority for DSS director)DSS Director(subject to SHRA, hiring/firing authority for DSS staff)DSS Staff (subject to SHRA)Health Board(appointed by BOC, hiring/firing authority for Health Director)Health Director (subject to SHRA, hiring/firing authority for Health staff)Health Staff (subject to SHRA)58
4 Option C CHSA with Appointed CHS Governing Board (2 choices represented below) Board of CommissionersCounty Manager(hiring/firing authority for CHSA director with the “advice and consent” of the CHS board)CHSA Director(not subject to SHRA, responsible for appointing the agency’s staff with the county manager’s approval)DSS Director(not subject to SHRA)DSS Staff(not subject to SHRA)Health Director(not subject to SHRA)Health Staff (not subject to SHRA)Veterans Services StaffCHS Board (appointed by BOC)Board of CommissionersCounty Manager (hiring/firing authority for CHSA director with the “advice and consent” of the CHS board)CHSA Director/DSS Director(not subject to SHRA, responsible for appointing the agency’s staff with the county manager’s approval)DSS Staff (not subject to SHRA)Veterans Services StaffHealth Board (appointed by BOC, hiring/firing authority for Health Director)Health Director (hiring/firing authority for Health staff, subject to SHRA)Health Staff(subject to SHRA)CHS Board (appointed by BOC)59
5 Option D CHSA with BOC Governance Board of Commissioners (serves as CHS Board)County Manager(hiring/firing authority for CHSA director with the “advice and consent” of the CHS board)CHSA Director (not subject to SHRA, responsible for appointing the agency’s staff with the county manager’s approval)DSS Director(not subject to SHRA)DSS Staff(not subject to SHRA)Health Director (not subject to SHRA)Health Staff (not subject to SHRA)Veterans Services StaffAdvisory Committee for Public Health (appointed by BOC)60