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11-15-2021 Meeting Minutes BOC November 15, 2021 1 PERSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS NOVEMBER 15, 2021 MEMBERS PRESENT OTHERS PRESENT Gordon Powell Heidi York, County Manager Kyle W. Puryear Brenda B. Reaves, Clerk to the Board C. Derrick Sims S. Ellis Hankins, County Attorney Charlie Palmer Patricia Gentry The Board of Commissioners for the County of Person, North Carolina, met in regular session on Monday, November 15, 2021 at 9:00am in the Person County Office Building Auditorium. Chairman Powell called the meeting to order. Commissioner Sims offered an invocation and Vice Chairman Puryear led the group in the Pledge of Allegiance. DISCUSSION/ADJUSTMENT/APPROVAL OF AGENDA: A motion was made by Vice Chairman Puryear and carried 5-0 to approve the agenda. INFORMAL COMMENTS: Chairman Powell announced each speaker would have a two-minute time limit. The following individuals appeared before the Board to make informal comments: Dr. Katherine Fulkerson of 742 Robert Gentry Road, Timberlake, and a member of Person County’s Board of Adjustment, stated she was using this opportunity to get more involved with government. She said she had concerns on how the Flat River park area would be developed and requested more widespread education about the plans. Mr. Barry Allen of 4391 Moore’s Mill Road, Rougemont, and a resident on the Flat River stated the Board was likely to adopt the Joint Comprehensive Land Use Plan on this date and he wanted to note his reservation about another document listed in the Land Use Plan, the 2014 Parks and Recreation Master Plan that listed two priorities: 1) to develop a greenways master plan, and 2) to acquire land to create a greenway trail. Mr. Allen said there were no site specific locations noted in the plan, however in another document, it stated the Flat River is a riparian corridor that includes multiple tributaries; eventually these corridors are opportunities for public recreation. Mr. Allen stated the county has been quietly making plans for their Flat River properties without their knowledge. November 15, 2021 2 Mr. Chris Weaver of 341 Satterfield Farm Road, Timberlake questioned what was the county quietly planning at the south side airpark and noted his displeasure of losing opportunities at the County’s mega site. Mr. Weaver said the county needed a leader in economic development with the current structure to go away. Mr. Jimmy B. Clayton of 717 Berman Clayton Road, Timberlake stated concerns of what may happen behind his property on the banks of the Flat River. Mr. Clayton encouraged the Board to take the greenway plan out of the Comprehensive Planning Ordinance. Mr. Brandon Vernon of 854 Blackard Road, Roxboro spoke in favor of the greenway plan on the County Farm. Mr. Jonathon Woods of 139 Fork Junction Road, Timberlake, and a resident on the Flat River across from the County Farm spoke in opposition of having random people traveling in and out of the County Farm property and suggested the Board look at the Little River Park, which would be a good representation. Ms. Anderson Clayton of 1416 Stone Drive, Roxboro stated support of the greenway trails; she also thanked folks supporting the Person County Democratic Party fundraiser and extended an invitation to attend the Democratic Party meeting this date at 7:00pm at 100 N. Main St. Roxboro. DISCUSSION/ADJUSTMENT/APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA: A motion was made by Commissioner Gentry and carried 5-0 to approve the Consent Agenda with the following items: A. Approval of Minutes of November 1, 2021, B. Budget Amendment #9, C. Tax Adjustments for November 2021 a. Tax Releases b. NC Vehicle Tax System pending refunds D. Consideration of Approval of Late Exemption Application E. Consideration of Approval of Late Application for Religious Property, and F. A Resolution to Use Remaining Loan Proceeds for Re-roofing Construction of Old Helena School Gym November 15, 2021 3 UNFINISHED BUSINESS: RESOLUTION OF ADOPTION OF THE PERSON COUNTY AND CITY OF ROXBORO JOINT COMPREHENSIVE LAND USE PLAN: The Board of Commissioners conducted the duly advertised public hearing for the review and adoption of the Person County and City of Roxboro Joint Comprehensive Land Use Plan at its meeting on November 1, 2021. Upon motion by Commissioner Gentry, the Board voted unanimously on November 1, 2021 to postpone action to adopt the Person County and City of Roxboro Joint Comprehensive Land Use Plan until the Board of Commissioners’ meeting on November 15, 2021. Commissioner Gentry stated the Comprehensive Land Use Plan is a wish plan joint effort between city and county without the force and effect of zoning or laws to which the County Manager, Heidi York said the Joint Comprehensive Land Use Plan is a visioning document for development. Commissioner Gentry asked if residents did not like the language in the Plan, can this Plan be modified or changed based on public input to which the County Attorney, Ellis Hankins stated yes. Mr. Hankins stated the Comprehensive Land Use Plan is required by law, if the Board wanted to exercise its authority for zoning and subdivision regulation, and other land use regulatory authority, i.e. greenways, parks, etc. Planning Director, Lori Oakley added at any point, the comprehensive plan could be amended by both the city and the county, or independently of each other noting Planning staff desired to bring any proposed changes to both entities to remain a joint land use plan. Ms. Oakley said the Land Use Plan before the Board for adoption was a very general document without site-specifics for any greenway, but a general objective to provide high quality parks and recreational opportunities. Mr. Epley of Benchmark stated there were no recommendations from the Parks and Recreation Master Plan placed into the Comprehensive Land Use Plan as it has not been completed. Commissioner Gentry reiterated the Plan before the Board was a general plan for the future without the effect of zoning or law. Chairman Powell stated as a member of the Comprehensive Land Use Plan committee, this plan was mandated by state statute and he agreed it was a general plan that has been in the works for two years or more noting there was an option to change the plan, as needed. Commissioner Sims said based on the information presented this date, he supported the Resolution of Adoption of the Person County and City of Roxboro Joint Comprehensive Land Use Plan. Vice Chairman Puryear asked if the City of Roxboro had taken action to adopt the resolution to which Ms. Oakley affirmed. He asked what would be the impacts if the county desired to make changes as the City has already adopted to which Mr. Hankins stated there was no requirement for the comprehensive plan adopted by the City and the County be the same. Although both entities have chosen to work jointly, neither entity was bound to work jointly and the County could, in fact, adopt some provisions that are different. November 15, 2021 4 Commissioner Gentry asked to confirm the designation of parks and greenway that there was nothing specific in the plan to which Mr. Epley confirmed there were no maps in the Plan with only the one paragraph acknowledging that there is a Parks and Recreation Master Plan, with nothing specific in the Plan for greenway trails. Mr. John Hill, Director of Parks and Recreation, present in the audience, stated the current active Master Plan was adopted in 2014 noting this ten-year plan was due to be updated and used as a guideline for the county’s park system. A motion was made by Commissioner Gentry and carried 5-0 to approve a Resolution of Adoption for the Person County and City of Roxboro Joint Comprehensive Land Use Plan. November 15, 2021 5 November 15, 2021 6 November 15, 2021 7 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT TASK FORCE SUMMARY INPUT FROM LEADERSHIP: Chairman Powell stated there was some misunderstanding and he needed to clarify the procedures related to Special Called Meetings and he asked County Attorney, Ellis Hankins to address this matter. Mr. Hankins stated, by law, the Board of Commissioners could conduct three types of meetings. The first is its regular –scheduled meetings, statutorily required to conduct once per month and typically the Person County Board of Commissioners hold two regular meetings per month; the legal significance of that is that the Board is free in a regular meeting to consider any matter the Board chooses to put on the agenda and/or amendments. Mr. Hankins noted an Emergency meeting is for an urgent, rare need, i.e. a hurricane is on the way and the Board must meet right away. Mr. Hankins said a special called meeting allows the Board to consider the matter(s) only that are mentioned in the Notice of a Special Meeting that schedules and calls the meeting. Mr. Hankins stated the rules of the procedure adopted by the Board of Commissioners, are consistent with the state statute; Rule 6, the Chairman alone can sign a notice of special meeting on behalf of the Board or a majority of the Board can sign a notice of a special meeting. Commissioner Gentry said at the Board’s last meeting the presentation for the Task Force presentation was rudely interrupted and she did not get to complete the information and the facts that were to be presented. She said the Task Force was very distraught about the fact the communications were shut down. Commissioner Gentry said the Task Force requested a meeting with the Board of Commissioners noting she sent an email to the Board of Commissioners twice asking the Board to meet jointly with the Task Force. She said three members of the Board did not have the courtesy to respond to her emails; therefore, the Task Force proceeded with their duly noticed special called meeting to clarify the findings. She said the Task Force special called meeting was recorded and posted on the county website. Commissioner Gentry stated she was not quite sure why the county commissioners would not want to meet with the Task Force as was done with the Builders Association when they had issues with the governance. Commissioner Sims stated he wanted to talk with the Task Force members individually or by small group and when he determined whether or not he could attend the Task Force meeting, it was less than 48-hours. Commissioner Gentry stated she wanted the opportunity to clarify a few things that were not finished. She said there was not an official report noting Vice Chairman Puryear was upset about not getting a report prior to the meeting. She added there was nothing for this governing body to vote on. Commissioner Gentry said the learning experience for her involved looking at a dozen counties that have different models noting the Task Force chose four models. She added the presentation to the Board was by a county of 20 years of economic development experience to lay out the model used to build their financial model to assist their economic development and instead of listening of how to develop a business model, it was about the differences of the size and population of the counties. November 15, 2021 8 Commissioner Gentry said in 1915, the Chamber was formed to advance business interests in the town and the county. In 1951, the public sector raised $10,000 to promote Roxboro and Person County and between 1950-1955, the RDC, the Roxboro Development Corporation was established as a private entity for economic and industrial development in Person County. In 1960, Roxboro business leaders created the committee of 100, private citizens interested in industrial development pledging support for a go forward program. She said the suggestions the task force brought were first shared with the Chamber, whether or not they decided to take it up, which was up to them. Commissioner Gentry stated she did not understand the resistance to looking at new ideas and new information. She asked Vice Chairman Puryear if he was pleased with the growth as she noted Person County was one of five counties with a negative growth rate in the last decade while the rest of NC was on fire. She noted that Person County is rural and does not have the interstates and should capitalize on what the County can offer. Commissioner Gentry said the suggestions from the Task Force were ideas and information about what is possible. Vice Chairman Puryear stated before he made comments, he would like to hear from the entities as listed on the agenda. Chairman Powell said he did not receive a direct request for a joint meeting with the Task Force nor was there a vote by the majority of the Board of Commissioners for a joint meeting. He said there was a “press release” sent to the board clerk, however, there was no official meeting of the Task Force and Board of Commissioners scheduled. He noted the meeting was not live streamed as it was not an official board of commissioners’ meeting. Since a joint meeting was not called for by a majority of the board or the chairman, it did not meet the statutorily requirements of a meeting. Furthermore, if more than two commissioners attended the Task Force meeting, there would have been a violation as well. Once a quorum has been met, there are several procedural requirement that the Board of Commissioners must meet prior to set meeting. Chairman Powell said he hoped this clears up any misinformation or misunderstanding surrounding this matter. Commissioner Gentry, Economic Development Task Force liaison, presented findings and a summary to the Board of Commissioners on November 1, 2021. Vice Chairman Puryear made a motion that carried to continue this item to the Board’s next meeting on November 15, 2021 to allow leadership from the Chamber of Commerce, the Tourism Development Authority, EDC and the Uptown Development Group and any entities mentioned in the Task Force summary to read, review and provide input to the Board of Commissioners. Commissioner Gentry noted on the agenda the Chamber, EDC, Roxboro Uptown and Tourism are weighing in on the Task Force recommendations however, the only entity that was approached with the idea was the Chamber as they are a private entity, a nonprofit corporation for input. November 15, 2021 9 Roxboro Area Chamber of Commerce Board Chairman, Woody Jacobs said the Board of Commissioners has lost sight of motivating people and helping others move forward as the focus has been on winning regardless of who gets knocked down in the process. Mr. Jacobs asked the Board to remember we are all on the same team regardless of party affiliation, position, private or public sector, etc. and to use our resources together to truly make a difference. Mr. Jacobs defined the role of the Chamber of Commerce and how they work with others to positively effect economic development as well as bring clarity and understanding to any misinformation passed along. As an organization that represents 329 members of the local business community, the Chamber is grateful to publicly speak for themselves since the discourse has begun. Mr. Jacobs said they value the work and responsibility of the Board of Commissioners, EDC partners and the TDA and what they believed as a positive intent from the members of the appointed Task Force to assist and move Person County forward. He noted they welcomed collaboration and encouraged input from members and partners on how to best be of service. The Chamber’s role is to lead, to promote, and support local business community and the mission has been implemented and evolved over the last 86 years. Mr. Jacobs said they could not lead the business community by acting on ill-prepared whims without strategic vision or genuine collaboration nor promote the business community while they are publicly attacked by those who have never bothered to engage with their organization. He added they could not support the business community in the middle of ever-shifting pandemic, an economic downturn, a hostile political environment, racial unrest and inequality, and a severe staffing shortage. Mr. Jacobs noted the Chamber board of directors were highly disappointed in the misinformation, lack of communication and sheer unprofessionalism that took place at the Board of Commissioners’ November 1, 2021 meeting. Mr. Jacobs said in Commissioner Gentry’s three-page document summarizing the Task Force findings, she stated “that Person County to date relies solely on funding granted by the Board of Commissioners”, and “no active private community participation in EDC process”, “the EDC has no real power and no achievements of true merit” were examples among many of the blanket statements that were used to portray a picture of failure and do not represent the facts. He added he did not think they truly reflected the findings given by the Task Force. Mr. Jacobs noted one of the things Mac Williams mentioned during his presentation was the participation in the Duke Site Readiness Program as one form of public/private partnership. In 2014, Duke Energy selected the Person County Mega Site for this exact program and in 2019 followed up with an additional grant to obtain engineering and environmental permits necessary for site development. Mr. Jacobs stated it was worth noting that Duke Energy continues to support economic development and workforce development efforts in Person County as noted below with over $350,000 in a public/private partnership funding. 2014 $32,500 for Site Readiness Program Destination and Support, 2016 $248,000 Workforce Development Grant for PCC, 2019 $20,000 Workforce Development Grant for PCC, 2019 $25,000 Economic Development Grant for Mega Site, and 2021 $25,000 Uptown Roxboro Hometown Grant November 15, 2021 10 Mr. Jacobs further noted that Duke’s support goes beyond funding as the Duke Energy Team brought in site selection consultants, at Duke’s cost to review and provide feedback on Person County economic development activities. Additionally, Duke Energy regular assisted with Project Lead Generation as well as additional supports with projects with Polywood, the Eaton expansion and SpunTech. Mr. Jacobs opined other private partners providing funding and support with economic development with other major employers in the county. The mission of the Economic Development Task Force, as stated in the November 1, 2021 meeting presentation was to review and provide the Board of Commissioners with an economic development prototype that will provide a source of increased economic funding by means of a revised organizational structure, which will better serve economic development needs for Person County. Mr. Jacobs said what was presented in the summary was a one-sentence recommendation from the Task Force and some additional comments. As stated by Commissioner Gentry on November 1, 2021 that she tried unsuccessfully to meet with the Chamber for eight weeks because they were closed down, preventing her from the opportunity to meet with the Chamber team until September 18, 2021, Mr. Jacobs said they did, in fact, sit down with Commissioner Gentry on August 18, 2021 and this was a misrepresentation of the facts. Commissioner Gentry said she clarified in an email to Mr. Jacobs that she had the dates wrong to which Mr. Jacobs said she clarified it with him but not with the public. Mr. Jacobs said the Chamber faced a staffing challenge just like many businesses in the community, as they rallied as a team to remain open to serve members while the Chamber Executive Director was out of the office on maternity leave for eight weeks; he said the Chamber was closed for a total of three business days, not 40 days. Mr. Jacobs stated the executive director on her third day back in the office following maternity leave, and after hours, agreed to a meeting because Commissioner Gentry’s request was important and worthy of prompt attention. He added they anticipated a valuable discussion but instead received what they now see as a demand disguised as a presentation. That demand was that a private, nonprofit (the Chamber) spend limited membership funds to hire a recommended consultant. Mr. Jacobs said the Chamber Board fully supports its Executive Director as she reevaluates and collaborates with the EDC and TDA. Mr. Jacobs stated the need to come together and be people centered. Commissioner Gentry clarified for the record that she met with the Chamber Executive Committee and floated an idea; she said there were no demands to participate, no demands whatsoever. In fact, she added that Mr. Jacobs called her to say they liked the ideas. November 15, 2021 11 Economic Development Commission (EDC) Chairman, Phillip Allen stated the EDC was made up of representatives of both the private and public sectors. Mr. Allen stated support of the Economic Development Director. He added the comments he will make have not been presented to the EDC and reflect his feelings related to the EDC. Mr. Allen recalled in January 2021 when Commissioner Gentry made her presentation on the proposed Task Force to the Board of Commissioners. Following, the EDC invited Commissioner Gentry to present to its EDC noting the word funding was mentioned 20 times and got their attention. Mr. Allen said in the absence of proper funding, the EDC was challenged to make the needed investments in infrastructure, product development and inventory, i.e. spec buildings, land acquisition, industrial parks and incentives. Mr. Allen said the EDC should not only welcome, but endorse conversations and discussions about funding. He added Commissioner Gentry came to the January 2021 EDC meeting noting the intention was not to dismantle or blow up the current EDC but instead to restructure the funding. Mr. Allen stated the EDC voted unanimously to endorse the proposed creation of the Task Force and he was confused with the Task Force’s recommendation which stated “build a cooperative model between public funding and private funding, partner with the Chamber of Commerce, Tourism, business and county government”. He asked does county government mean the EDC as currently structured or will there be a plan either now or in the future to reconstruct the entire organization. Mr. Allen said he would like to respectively disagree with the statement in the report that states there is no active private community participation in the EDC process and the statement that the EDC has no real power and has no achievements of true merit. Mr. Allen said they celebrated the announcement of Polywood’s expansion this summer that will create an additional 300 jobs on top of the 385 initially pledged to double the footprint and create the largest manufacturing facility in Person County at nearly one million square feet with nearly $100M investment that was an achievement of true merit. Mr. Allen said it is wonderful news when an existing industry announces an expansion as it validates that the community is doing it right. He added Polywood chose to come to Person County because of the responsiveness of Sherry Wilborn, Economic Development Director as well as the collaborating community support noting the City, the County, PCC, the State of NC, the Chamber of Commerce, the Recycling Center, and the EDC. Mr. Allen stated as Mr. Jacobs pointed out, Duke Energy continues to be the strongest partner with both funding and with their expertise. Mr. Allen noted that Dominion Energy and Piedmont Electric are also partners as well as private industry partners that support workforce development through donations and volunteering. Mr. Allen further noted that the county’s economic development efforts have also been supported over the years by the Golden Leaf Foundation and the Rural Infrastructure Authority along with other state and federal grant programs. Earlier this year, Mr. Allen said the EDC released a Request for Proposals for a public/private partnership and Ms. Wilborn as the director is in constant contact with the directors of the Chamber, TDA, Uptown Development Group as well as county departments and the City of Roxboro. Mr. Allen stated Dr. Senegal, PCC President has accompanied Ms. Wilborn on site visits and November 15, 2021 12 the Chamber President has accompanied Ms. Wilborn on existing industry visits and the TDA is involved with the business support with business overlaps. He added the Uptown Roxboro tracks commercial and residential vacancies for Ms. Wilborn to share with prospects and developers. Mr. Allen stated there is constant and consistent collaboration. Mr. Allen spoke of the importance of the EDC and its role in planning and decision- making process noting a top priority was to perform a SWAT analysis and create a strategic plan, which is being carried out since its adoption in 2019. Because of the plan and efforts, critical infrastructure and improvements that are necessary for any development in the southern portion of the city and county are now underway. Mr. Allen told the group that the infrastructure, design and construction has been done for the Person County Mega Park and advanced development permits have been received. Another site on the North Park Drive has been brought to a greater level of site readiness through due diligence studies and permitting and the product development is underway. Other efforts include large investments in training and workforce development through the 6-14 Workforce Pipeline Program given the critical importance of having a skilled workforce in our economic development recruitment efforts. Mr. Allen thanked the Task Force members for their willingness to volunteer and he looks forward to more information on the final model and the funding component. Mr. Allen thanked the Board of Commissioners for its funding and support of economic development. Mr. Allen thanked Ms. Wilborn and the EDC members for their dedication and contributions. He asked the Board to remember economic development is a team sport and by working together they can make great things happen. Commissioner Gentry asked if she or the Task Force had mentioned that there was not collaboration between departments in the county noting their focus was on a private funding mechanism. Mr. Allen said the Task Force recommendation to build a cooperative model between public funding and private funding partnering with the Chamber to which Commissioner Gentry stated was a suggestion noting collaborating on information is different from collaborating on fundraising. Commissioner Gentry stated for the past decade, the county has had Polywood and its expansion and another expansion, noting all good things and the incentive package had something to do with that but was not significant for a decade of work. She asked was that enough to which Mr. Allen said it was not enough but the report stated there was no true merit and to him, it felt it was a true merit. Chairman Powell reiterated from previous meeting announcement related to conduct of those in the audience to maintain quietness as this session was not for people to speak and interrupt during board meetings, and if not adhered to, the Board will request to have those removed from the building. November 15, 2021 13 Roxboro Uptown Director, Lynda Clayton sent this statement: “The Uptown Roxboro Group appreciates the Commissioners’ acknowledgement of our role in the community. Given that we were not expressly named in the Task Force report, we have not prepared any information to present at the Commissioners’ meeting. We maintain our support for our partner agencies and appreciate all of the hard work they are doing for our community. If specific information is needed from our group, please let me know. Otherwise, we will simply remain abreast of discussions about this topic.” Tourism Development Authority Board Chair, Dr. Claudia Berryhill said that neither the TDA director nor herself has been approached about how tourism fits into Person County’s economic development framework and are anxious to be involved. Dr. Berryhill said the TDA was created by legislation in 1997 so that a tax could be levied to overnight visitors in motels, cabins, inns, and now includes Airbnb, VRBO, Expedia and others. Dr. Berryhill noted the legislation mandates how the tax levy could be spent to further the development of travel and tourism in the county through advertising and promotion to sponsor tourist oriented events and activities and finance tourist-related capital projects. She further noted that the TDA provides grants and can be used for capital improvements of attractions as well as support festivals and other events that bring in folks to spend money on lodging, food, etc. Dr. Berryhill said the six-member TDA are appointed by the Board of Commissioners and the Roxboro City Council (three members each for a 3-year terms with one each designated as a hotel/motel operator). Dr. Berryhill said Visit North Carolina stats attributes economic impact of $35.2M to Person County in 2019-2020. When questioned how do tourism and hospitality industry contribute to economic development in Person County, Dr. Berryhill said property taxes paid on lodging site, employees needed for cleaning, maintenance, repair and upkeep and visitors buy food, gas, ice, trinkets and gifts. Entrepreneur businesses such as boat rental startup and artisans provides specialty retail items. When asked if the TDA actively seek industrial recruitment, retirees or small businesses outright, Dr. Berryhill said no, but the TDA is here to promote awareness of Person County. She said occupancy taxes collected are not designated as tourist or corporate by source and they do not have the official means to differentiate the two sources but the corporate world is the bread and butter of the taxes collected. Dr. Berryhill stated the TDA staff consists of one full time employee and one part time employee. Staff and TDA board members assist other organizations, i.e. Chamber, Uptown Roxboro Group, EDC, Person County Arts, Parks & Recreation Department with their projects and other projects as needed. Dr. Berryhill stated she watched the Task Force meeting videos and thanked those members for their time and effort evaluating potential strategies to enhance economic development. Dr. Berryhill contacted some of the same counties interviewed to review their TDA program and although they may be structured a little differently, they all have the same function to enhance the quality of life by attracting visitors and eventually businesses. November 15, 2021 14 Dr. Berryhill said economic development is not just industrial development but is also supported by tourism, small business development, the Chamber, PCC as well as small business farms. Agricultural community of farms, forest, agri-tourism and agribusinesses also are major contributors to economic development. She said agriculture is our state’s and our county’s major economic driver and tourism and the military toggle for second and third place in state economy. Agriculture also contributes in other ways, quality of life and a way of life. She added farmland provides natural beauty, the basis of an eco-system that has a natural balance. Agriculture supports the aesthetic and health value of greenways, open spaces, starry nights and singing of birds. In addition, she made the Board aware of the need of broadband for the farming community for the technology to maximize yield and minimizes waste, which is a cost savings and protects the land from overuse of chemicals. Dr. Berryhill asked the Board to practice smart growth and identify what is good and to promote the good and work collaboratively to fix what needs to be fixed. Chairman Powell asked the commissioners if there were next steps or proposals. Commissioner Gentry stated there was nothing for the Board to vote on with the only proposal would be that every economic development program had an agreement with the private sector that included private sector funding mechanism. She added when a committee of 100 is formed to raise funds to support economic development from the private sector, the county should consider forming that public/private partnership. County Attorney, Ellis Hankins said the county has a wide range of discretion and authority to organize the economic development efforts and a potential to enter into additional or different agreements. Commissioner Gentry said all they have done was to investigate and present information and findings; she said it is up to the business community and up to the citizens of Person County. Commissioner Sims stated appreciation of the work the Task Force members have done and he thanked the folks providing input. He stated a concern and asked if there is a 501c3 private entity formed, will they be in competition for grants, etc. with the current economic development program noting this should be done as a team. He agreed that the Board was not ready for a vote today. Commissioner Gentry said competition was not a bad thing. Commissioner Palmer stated the consensus of everyone was to provide growth economically and by advancing industrial development generates jobs. He said jobs plus growth creates a stronger tax base for Person County and the state of NC. He thanked the Task Force members for all their time to help all departments within this county to provide growth for everyone. Vice Chairman Puryear stated that he and Chairman Powell had a very positive, productive meeting with a couple members of the Task Force to further discuss the concept, ask questions noting teamwork, a buy-in from all private entities for a model that fits Person County. He recalled a concept from 2007 called a Board of Boards that the Chamber, TDA November 15, 2021 15 and Uptown Roxboro, if so desired can look at. Vice Chairman Puryear said he agreed with the concept and it was a matter of the approach and getting the buy-in. He noted he is on board with a public/private partnership to what can be accomplished and agreed with Commissioners Gentry and Sims that no motion nor recommendation was needed. Vice Chairman Puryear said private entities can contact members of the Task Force to further discuss the concept, to answer questions, and they would share their notes to go to the next phase. Chairman Powell said he had spoken with four of the Task Force members individually and appreciated their work. As the discussions continue, Chairman Powell stated he supported the formation of public/private partnership noting two-three years ago, the EDC were in process of developing a 501c3 and even drafted bylaws for this separate entity noting the process was interrupted; he stated support as the county moves forward with that process to develop a total independent nonprofit or a combination of public/private as next steps. Commissioner Gentry said it was now in the private sector’s hands. NEW BUSINESS: TOURISM DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY ANNUAL REPORT 2020-2021: Tourism Development Authority (TDA) Executive Director, Marley Spencer presented to the Board its Annual Report for 2020-2021 to inform Person County leadership of the received occupancy tax revenue, use of budget, collaboration within the community, and progress made on annual goals. A copy of the TDA Annual Report was included in the Board’s agenda packet. Ms. Spencer stated data shared has been consolidated from varying surveys and reports by Visit North Carolina in the 2020 study “Economic Impact of Travel on North Carolina Counties”. This study was prepared for Visit North Carolina by Tourism Economics. For the purposes of this study, Person County was categorized as a member of the North Central region. The North Central region includes Chatham, Durham, Franklin, Granville, Harnett, Johnston, Lee, Orange, Person, Vance, Wake, and Warren counties. Of the 100 total counties, Person County ranked 75th in total visitor spending for 2020 in North Carolina. Visitor spending in North Carolina was down 31.7%, while Person County only saw a decrease of 16%. Overall, Person County residents saved an estimated $71.80 each, which is competitive with other counties and more than Chatham, Franklin, Graham and Harnett counties and only provided $7.00 less per resident than Orange County. Savings per resident is $1.00 less than Alamance County based on their visitor spending. Ms. Spencer said these estimates goes hand-in-hand with the type of market Person County is striving for as Person County is not a tourism-dependent market noting the market and revenues exist to supplement the quality of life community when continuing to support the demand for travel to destination and quality of experience of destination. November 15, 2021 16 Ms. Spencer provided and overview of the TDA 2020-2021 budget as displayed below. Projected Revenue Occupancy Tax $195,000 Interest $500 Total $195,500 Projected Expenditures Amount % of Budget Tourism Related $21,320 11% Tourism Promotion $153,791.49 79% Excess Directed to Fund Balance $20,388.51 10% Total $195,500 Ms. Spencer noted that across the state of North Carolina, destinations were impacted by the global pandemic to varying degrees. The North Central region was hit hardest in 2020 when measured by total room revenues, with a total decrease of 51% from 2019 to 2020. The next two highest decreases seen were in the Southwest and Piedmont Triad with decreases of 49.5% and 44.9%, respectively. These figures were reported in the “2020 North Carolina Lodging Report” published by Visit North Carolina. This calculation differs from standard occupancy tax collections, as it is not relative to a fiscal year, but is reflective of a calendar year. Person County experienced an increase from 2019 to 2020 of .7%. Occupancy tax revenue, pre-collection fee, for the calendar year of 2019 totaled $257,909, and the total for 2020 was $259,695. Overall, North Carolina saw an average decrease in room revenue of 41.2% from 2019 to 2020. Ms. Spencer further noted the FY 2020-2021 was impacted in a variety of ways, both positive and negative, by the COVID-19 Pandemic. An opportunity that arose out of the pandemic, was extended funding for tourism agencies. TDA successfully submitted and were awarded $14,000 in grant funds through this program. With these funds TDA executed a Paid Social Program, an ad campaign with Garden & Gun magazine, and an Instagram User Generated Content (UGC) Promotion Partnership with Visit North Carolina. The Garden & Gun campaign resulted in 625,020 impressions, and 321 clicks. Ms. Spencer said TDA continues to maintain two slots in the material racks at Raleigh Durham International Airport with a rotation of tourism generated brochures, local maps, and the Roxboro Business Guide. Soon we will have Hyco Lake Magazine will be supplied in that spot as well. An uptick in social media activity has been realized. November 15, 2021 17 Looking ahead at this current fiscal year, Ms. Spencer said they are considering an update to the visual representation of the TDA branding as well as in process of way- finding signage implementation, a community map brochure in the works, a navigational roadmap is forthcoming as well as an outdoor pamphlet and map display at the Visitor’s Center and a plan to increase gift shop options as well. Ms. Spencer said the TDA Grant Program occurs annually within each fiscal year. This program is advertised publicly, and exists to support through funding, the marketing or promotion of events, development of tourism related programming, and development of other local projects that directly relate to the development and support of tourism in Person County. In the FY 2020-2021, TDA awarded $6,734.55 in grant funds. These funds were awarded to multiple local agencies including Person County Museum of History (PCMH), RACC, and URG. The projects included beautification, development of local attractions, and event promotion. The total amount awarded for 2020-2021 is artificially low due to COVID-19, and the TDA fully expects to be back on target, fulfilling the budget in FY 2021-2022. Ms. Spencer told the group the TDA will continue its grant program, as well as resume the annual tourism summit, designed to facilitate conversations between organization leadership regarding tourism and economic development. She added the TDA goals moving forward are grounded with intention to continue support of local organizations and efforts to engage the community, provide for the community, and grow the community. Ms. Spencer said it is existing and future collaboration with these organizations, as well as tourism partners, and community members that will aid the growth of the relationship between tourism and this community, together achieving our vision. Ms. Spencer thanked TDA partnering organizations which include the Person County Board of Commissioners, the Person County Economic Development Department, the Person County Arts, Parks and Recreation Department, Roxboro City Council, Uptown Roxboro Group, Roxboro Area Chamber of Commerce and local hospitality businesses. Commissioner Gentry asked Ms. Spencer what is TDA’s engagement with the community, i.e., website, Facebook level of participation. Ms. Spencer responded that the Visitor’s Center is open 9:00am-5:00pm during the week with full coverage with plans to open on Saturdays. Currently, Ms. Spencer said she was not satisfied with the level of traffic on the website noting it lacks sufficient information on the county’s assets. She added she plans to implement further information on the website with target marketing noting she sees an increase when blogs are posted. Ms. Spencer stated she set high expectations with social media and working to load upcoming events noting a higher response with Facebook over Instagram. Ms. Spencer said she has not actively engaged with TDA twitter account but as she planned to target the market as she starts engaging. Commissioner Gentry said the Twitter engagement was low and did not make a significant impact. November 15, 2021 18 Commissioner Gentry request a brief recess to which Chairman Powell announced a brief recess at 11:07am; Chairman Powell reconvened the meeting at 11:14am. VAYA HEALTH UPDATE: Assistant County Manager, Katherine Cathey stated Person County was in the process of transitioning mental health services from Cardinal Innovations Healthcare to Vaya Health, effective January 1, 2022, due to a consolidation of the two LME/MCOs (local management entities/managed care organizations). Ms. Cathey introduced Mr. Brian Ingraham, President & CEO of Vaya Health to provide an update on the transition to the Board. Mr. Brian Shuping, Executive Director of Community Relations was also present in the audience. Mr. Ingraham stated Vaya’s Regional Director of Community Relations. Elliot Clark was unable to attend the meeting this date. Mr. Ingraham shared the following presentation with the group: November 15, 2021 19 November 15, 2021 20 November 15, 2021 21 November 15, 2021 22 November 15, 2021 23 November 15, 2021 24 November 15, 2021 25 County Manager, Heidi York stated Person County was excited at the new partnership for enhanced services and outreach to the community including an on-site law enforcement assessment by a medical professional at the beginning of the next fiscal year. Mr. Ingraham explained a continuum of care is in place to fill the gaps for access to services with well-trained clinicians with Youth Villages; he added that Vaya has had much success designing an organization in rural counties with the continuum of care under one roof to response to walk-ins, access to the medical corp., crisis intervention, mobile crisis and ongoing treatment. November 15, 2021 26 APPOINTMENT TO VAYA HEALTH REGIONAL BOARD: Assistant County Manager, Katherine Cathey stated the Person County Board of Commissioners has sole authority to select up to two representatives to serve on a Vaya Health regional board. She noted the regional board membership would include county commissioners and subject matter experts. One representative must be an elected county commissioner. A second representative (optional) may be a representative from the county that meets the following criteria: a county commissioner, county manager, Department of Social Services director, public health director, or law enforcement representative. Ms. Cathey explained each NC regional board would appoint two members to the governing board. The regional boards will help ensure Vaya’s governing board is responsive to local needs and will create opportunities for regional collaboration. Vaya’s new governance structure has been established in response to the consolidation of Cardinal Innovations and Vaya. Chairman Gordon Powell currently serves as the Person County representative on the Cardinal Innovations Healthcare Board of Directors. Ms. Cathey requested Board consideration to appoint one or two representatives (one commissioner with the other one optional) to the Vaya Health Regional Board. A motion was made by Commissioner Sims to appoint Chairman Gordon Powell to the Vaya Health Regional Board. An amended motion was made by Vice Chairman Puryear and carried 5-0 to appoint Chairman Gordon Powell and Public Health Director, Janet Clayton to the Vaya Health Regional Board as Person County representatives. November 15, 2021 27 AN UPDATE ON PERSON INDUSTRIES AND THE PERSON COUNTY RECYCLING CENTER: Person Industries, Director, Amanda Everett provided an update on both Person Industries and the Recycling Center as requested by Commissioner Gentry. A Feasibility Study is underway to merge the operations of both functions into a combined space for improved efficiencies and updates for equipment. Ms. Everett outlined the progress on the Feasibility Study noting she initially met with RRS on September 27, 2021. She said she submitted the County’s data for demographics, needs of operations, and facility details on October 29, 2021. Ms. Everett hosted a site visit with RRS on November 12, 2021 to discuss system and equipment options as well as updates to the building that would be needed to make the facility ADA accessible to sort material more efficiently. Ms. Everett stated she was expecting an update from RRS by the end of November with a plan for equipment updates by the end of the calendar year. Ms. Everett stated Person Industries has returned to full operation following the COVID-19 pandemic noting Person County Group Homes would be returning the following week. She said the Adult Developmental Vocational Program, that has been on hold for five years will be bringing in new consumers. Ms. Everett said Person Industries is working diligently with Vaya Health as staff consider the consolidation of the two facilities. Ms. Everett provided handouts of their recycling educational materials illustrating not to bag recyclables and to recycle together emptied and rinsed plastic, metal, paper, and cardboard items. In separate containers, also accepted are glass, electronic, pallets, scrap metal, shredded paper and tires. The flyers also noted items that they do not accept in the recycling program. Ms. Everett said Person Industries and the Recycling Center want to continue its partnership with Clayton and Hurdle and recent communication with Clayton and Hurdle resulted in their mailing educational flyers to their customers. Commissioner Gentry suggested Ms. Everett mail to all residents the educational materials to which Ms. Everett stated they were seeking a grant for such purpose. November 15, 2021 28 FY2022 ISO FIRE RATING REDUCTION BONUSES: Assistant County Manager, Katherine Cathey stated the Board of Commissioners established a process to reward fire departments for their efforts to lower the ISO fire rating for the county’s rural fire districts by awarding a recurring $7,500 from the Fire Tax District Fund for each ISO fire rating point reduction achieved. Reduced ISO fire ratings demonstrate an improvement in how well the fire departments can protect the community and result in savings to county residents on their homeowner’s insurance. Previously, Timberlake VFD and Semora VFD lowered their ISO fire ratings and received bonuses. Ms. Cathey noted the Ceffo VFD was scheduled for an inspection in December. Effective January 1, 2022, Ms. Cathey said the following fire departments have lowered their ISO fire ratings: Fire Department Current ISO Rating ISO Rating Effective 1/1/22 Bonus Allensville VFD 9S 5 $30,000 Hurdle Mills VFD 9S 6 $22,500 City of Roxboro (Person County 1) 9S 4 $37,500 Ms. Cathey asked the Board to consider approving the contract addenda and award bonuses; if approved by the Board the contact addenda will be executed and the bonuses will be added to the departments’ FY2022 Fire Tax District Fund allocations. A motion was made by Vice Chairman Puryear and carried 5-0 to approve the contract addenda for the Allensville VFD, Hurdle Mills VFD and the City of Roxboro (Person County 1), as presented. November 15, 2021 29 November 15, 2021 30 November 15, 2021 31 November 15, 2021 32 November 15, 2021 33 November 15, 2021 34 November 15, 2021 35 RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING THE PERSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS’ 2022 SCHEDULE OF REGULAR MEETINGS: County Manager, Heidi York stated North Carolina General Statute 153A-40 requires the Board of Commissioners to hold a regular meeting at least once a month. Ms. York presented a Resolution Establishing the Board of Commissioners’ 2022 Schedule of Regular Meetings for consideration, discussion and adoption. Ms. York noted as the Board took action to hold the majority of its regular scheduled meetings in the County Office Building Auditorium in 2021 due to COVID-19, and the attached schedule of meetings has kept that standard unless the auditorium was unavailable. The Board may take action when deemed appropriate to conduct its meetings in the commissioners’ boardroom 215. In addition, Ms. York further noted there was no conflict with the proposed schedule related to the state and national association conferences. A motion was made by Vice Chairman Puryear and carried 5-0 to adopt a Resolution Establishing the Person County Board of Commissioners’ 2022 Schedule of Regular Meetings so to cause copy of such to be distributed and posted. November 15, 2021 36 November 15, 2021 37 November 15, 2021 38 FISCAL YEAR 2022-2023 BUDGET CALENDAR: County Manager, Heidi York presented Fiscal Year 2022-2023 budget calendar for the Board’s adoption, outlining a schedule for the timing of the budget process. She said a Board Retreat was planned for February 22nd, along with the Capital Improvement Plan adoption in April, Presentation of the Recommended Budget in May, a required Budget Public Hearing on June 6th and Adoption of the FY2022-2023 Budget Ordinance on June 20th. Ms. York said the dates outlined are subject to change if needed, but this will facilitate an organized budget process for staff and elected officials. A motion was made by Vice Chairman Puryear and carried 5-0 to adopt the budget calendar for Fiscal Year 2022-2023, as presented. November 15, 2021 39 November 15, 2021 40 CHAIRMAN’S REPORT: Chairman Powell had no report. MANAGER’S REPORT: County Manager, Heidi York provided an update to the Board related to the federal OSHA mandate to require organizations with 100 or more employees to either be vaccinated or have required negative weekly COVID-19 testing. She noted the mandate has been appealed and by this being in the courts, the NC Dept. of Insurance has recommended for counties to hold on any requirement at this time. Ms. York noted her question whether this mandate was extended to county elected officials was not answered. Commissioner Palmer stated he would not participate as it was unconstitutional. COMMISSIONER REPORT/COMMENTS: Commissioner Sims reported that Captain Ricky Hughes was presented the Enrique S. Camarena award by the NC State Elks Association of Elks. Captain Hughes has served in the Roxboro/Person County community for 23 years and was the second officer in North Carolina to receive this recognition. There were no reports or comments from Vice Chairman Puryear nor Commissioners Gentry and Palmer. ADJOURNMENT: A motion was made by Commissioner Palmer and carried 5-0 to adjourn the meeting at 12:27pm. _____________________________ ______________________________ Brenda B. Reaves Gordon Powell Clerk to the Board Chairman