February 20
February 20, 2012
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PERSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS FEBRUARY 20, 2012
MEMBERS PRESENT OTHERS PRESENT
Jimmy B. Clayton Heidi York, County Manager
Kyle W. Puryear C. Ronald Aycock, County Attorney
B. Ray Jeffers Brenda B. Reaves, Clerk to the Board
Samuel R. Kennington
Frances P. Blalock
The Board of Commissioners for the County of Person, North Carolina, met in
regular session on Monday, February 20, 2012 at 9:00 a.m. in the Commissioners’
meeting room in the Person County Office Building.
Chairman Clayton and Commissioner Jeffers were present. Vice Chairman
Puryear was present via telephone conference call. Commissioners Blalock and
Kennington were absent.
Chairman Clayton called the meeting to order.
A motion was made by Commissioner Jeffers, seconded by Vice Chairman
Puryear and carried 3-0 to open the duly advertised public hearing for the request by
Carolina Solar Energy, LLC for a Special Use Permit for a Solar Energy Generator on
Montgomery Drive in the Flat River Township.
A motion was made by Commissioner Jeffers, seconded by Vice Chairman
Puryear and carried 3-0 to recess the public hearing for the request by Carolina Solar
Energy, LLC for a Special Use Permit for a Solar Energy Generator on Montgomery
Drive in the Flat River Township as well as the remainder of the Board meeting at 9:01
a.m. until 11:00 a.m. due to inclement weather.
Chairman Clayton called the recessed meeting to order at 11:00 a.m. All Board
members were in attendance. Chairman Clayton led the invocation and asked
Commissioner Kennington to lead the Pledge of Allegiance.
DISCUSSION/ADJUSTMENT/APPROVAL OF AGENDA:
A motion was made by Vice Chairman Puryear, seconded by Commissioner
Jeffers and carried 5-0 to add a Closed Session to the agenda for the purpose to consult
with the attorney.
A motion was made by Commissioner Jeffers, seconded by Vice Chairman
Puryear and carried 5-0 to approve the agenda as adjusted.
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REQUEST FOR SPECIAL USE PERMIT BY CAROLINA SOLAR ENERGY,
LLC FOR A SOLAR ENERGY GENERATOR ON MONTGOMERY DRIVE,
FLAT RIVER TOWNSHIP:
The public hearing set to hear a request by Carolina Solar Energy, LLC for a
Special Use Permit for a Solar Energy Generator on Montgomery Drive, in the Flat River
Township required a quasi-judicial zoning decision whereby witnesses are to be sworn in
and subject to cross examination, no ex parte communication and requires findings of
fact. Chairman Clayton administered the Oath of Sworn Testimony to the following
individuals who would offer testimony during the public hearing:
Ms. Paula Murphy
Mr. Jim Stovall Mr. Richard Harkrader
Mr. Gerry Dudzik Mr. Gene Moore
Planning Director, Paula Murphy stated Person County has received a Special Use
Permit request from Carolina Solar Energy, LLC for a solar energy generator off
Montgomery Drive, Flat River Township, adjacent to the Person County Airport. The
proposed property consists of 36.4 acres. Carolina Solar Energy, LLC plans to purchase
24.2 acres for the solar farm. Ms. Murphy noted a subdivision of the property will be
required and the site plan shows a 50 foot easement to the proposed 24.2 acres. Ms.
Murphy stated the facility being considered will be similar in design to the previously
installed systems by Carolina Solar on US 501 and would be unmanned and only visited
periodically for maintenance. Ms. Murphy noted the plans show two 9’ x 18’parking
spaces and an access road off of Montgomery Drive. The drive is shown as 12 feet in
width with 4 inches ABC stone. Ms. Murphy stated a Class B road will be required
along with road construction plans and final road approval by the County. Within the
Special Use Permit process, all setbacks, parking and height restrictions must be met.
Ms. Murphy stated Montgomery Drive is a private road at the point of access for the solar
farm and the applicant will have to show that they have legal authority to use this private
road. Ms. Murphy stated it was noted at the Planning Board meeting that the Airport
Commission had granted approval for the use of the road. Ms. Murphy noted the
proposed parcel is located in the Flat River Watershed with no flood areas. Ms. Murphy
stated Parcel A will have 5,940 square feet of impervious area and Parcel B will have
10,800 square feet of impervious area. Ms. Murphy noted the new Falls Lake Rules
require Best Management Practices (BMP) for commercial or Industrial property over
12,000 square feet. Ms. Murphy stated if the noted parcels were further developed, BMP
would likely be required.
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Ms. Murphy noted on receiving the recommendation of the Planning Board the
County Commissioners shall consider the application and said recommendation and may
grant or deny the Special Use Permit requested. The Special Use Permit, if granted, shall
include such approved plans as may be required. In granting the permit, the County
Commissioners shall consider Section 74-4 and find:
1. that the use will not materially endanger the public health or
safety if located where proposed and developed according to
the plan as submitted and approved.
2. that the use meets all required conditions and specifications.
3. that the use will not substantially injure the value of adjoining
or abutting property, or that the use is a public necessity, and
4. that the location and character of the use if developed
according to the plan as submitted and approved will be in
harmony with the area in which it is to be located and in
general conformity with the comprehensive plan.
Ms. Murphy reminded the Board of Section 160-5(B) of the Zoning Ordinance
which states: “The Planning Board shall provide a written recommendation to the Board
of County Commissioners that addresses that the proposed amendment is consistent with
the comprehensive plan, but a comment by the Planning Board that a proposed
amendment is inconsistent with the comprehensive plan shall not preclude consideration
or approval of the proposed amendment by the Board of County Commissioners. Prior to
adopting or rejecting any zoning amendment, the Board of County Commissioners shall
adopt a statement describing whether its action is consistent with an adopted
comprehensive plan and why such action is reasonable and in the public interest. The
Land Use Plan has this area identified as Office and Institutional/Commercial which is
defined as “commercial uses, office and public/institutional uses, light industrial, limited
residential uses. Residential uses can be located near non-residential uses with
appropriate buffers. Development should be limited to areas identified for economic
development and with public water and sew. The Land Use Plan in Section 2.1 states
“Promote continued economic investment through retention and expansion of existing
industrial concerns and the recruitment of new industries and commercial businesses.
Ms. Murphy told the Board that should the Board decide to grant approval of the
Special Use Permit, the following conditions should be included:
1. Applicant to obtain all Federal, State and Local permits that are required.
2. Applicant to subdivide the property as shown on the plat and the recorded plat
presented to the Planning Department prior to the issuance of a zoning permit.
3. Access to the site by a “Class B” private road per the Person County
Subdivision Ordinance. Construction plans (drawn by a licensed professional)
to be submitted to the County Planning Department for approval. Final Road
approval to be approved by the Planning Department prior to the issuance of a
Zoning Permit.
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4. Parcel A and B to meet the new Falls Lake Rules with Best Management
Practices and the reduction of nitrogen and phosphorus if they exceed state
requirements.
5. Applicant to show that they have legal access to use the private portion of
Montgomery Drive.
6. Applicant to meet all required conditions and specifications of the Person
County Zoning Ordinance.
Ms. Murphy stated the Board should address the findings of fact in Section 74-4
and whether the proposal is in keeping with the comprehensive plan.
Ms. Murphy noted the Planning Board held a Public Hearing on January 5 and
January 26, 2012 and voted 5-0 to recommend approval of the solar farm as presented
with staff comments and that it met the findings of fact and was in keeping with the
comprehensive plan.
Commissioner Blalock asked Ms. Murphy if the applicant was subdividing the
property to keep from doing the BMPs. Ms. Murphy stated Carolina Solar only wanted
part of the 36 acres property and it was subdivided for the access otherwise they would
have had road frontage.
Commissioner Kennington asked for clarification on the agenda items 1 and 2.
Chairman Clayton stated item 1 is the public hearing and item 2 is the action related to
the consideration once the public hearing (item 1) is closed. Commissioner Kennington
asked if the recommendations from the Airport Commission could be presented during
item 2 and the County Attorney confirmed.
Individuals speaking in favor of the request by Carolina Solar Energy, LLC for a
Special Use Permit for a Solar Energy Generator on Montgomery Drive in the Flat River
Township were:
Mr. Jim Stovall of 261 Wimbledon Drive, Roxboro introduced to the Board Mr.
Richard Harkrader, CEO of Carolina Solar Energy and Mr. Gerry Dudzik, COO of
Carolina Solar Energy. Mr. Stovall told the Board that the Airport was considered
previously as a potential site for a solar farm but was told by FAA the approval time for
an on-site solar farm at an airport was 1-2 years which is the reason for pursuing the two
sites at PCBIC which now houses a 2-mega watt solar farm. Mr. Stovall addressed the
question related to the subdivision of property noting the Airport was seeking to obtain
part of the proposed property, the Barton property as well as the ST Wooten property.
Mr. Stovall stated Carolina Solar was recruited to place the 3-mega watt farm on the
proposed site adjacent to the Airport. Mr. Stovall noted solar farms are extremely poplar
at airports, nationally and locally filling the large footprints with renewable energy
sources, recruiting such as a revenue stream, a good visual reference for pilots along with
potential grants. Mr. Stovall proceeded to name the following airports with on-site solar
farms:
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Tallahassee, Chicago, Fresno, Indianapolis, Denver International, Boston, San
Francisco, Long Beach, Oakland, Rochester, Asheville, Cherry Point Marine Base, noting
Raleigh Durham is currently planning one with a recycling, composting component,
Ocracoke, Billy Mitchell, Concord, Global Transpark, Douglas with Shelby-Cleveland
County leasing one at no cost.
Mr. Richard Harkrader of 400 W. Main Street, Durham, and Chief Executive
Officer of Carolina Solar Energy thanked the Board for continuing the meeting and not
canceling. Mr. Harkrader stated Progress Energy has requested more solar energy noting
the project size is limited by Progress Energy. Mr. Harkrader stated the operations will
be exactly the same as the 501 site further noting the panels generate electricity with the
sun and converted by an inverter to AC electricity and synchronized with a grid to travel
over the power lines. Mr. Harkrader asked Mr. Dudzik how many homes would be
powered on an annual basis. Mr. Dudzik responded 280 average NC homes would be
powered by the proposed solar farm site. Commissioner Blalock asked Mr. Harkrader of
the size comparison to the existing 501 solar farm site. Mr. Harkrader stated the 501
solar farm site is approximately 8 acres and the proposed solar farm off Montgomery
Road would be double that size. Commissioner Jeffers asked Mr. Harkrader what the
production would be for both the 501 site and the proposed site off Montgomery. Mr.
Harkrader estimated producing power for 500 homes.
Mr. Gerry Dudzik of 400 W. Main Street, Durham, and Chief Operating Officer
of Carolina Solar Energy stated he was available to answer any technical questions.
Mr. Stovall stated the Planning Board had technical concerns and Mr. Steve
Bright of Talbert and Bright along with the Airport Commission found out that the FAA,
the Department of Transportation and the Aviation Division are all in favor of solar parks
in NC. Mr. Stovall stated he hoped all concerns were answered noting the Airport
Commission and Planning Board have approved and requested the Board to approve the
Special Use Permit.
Mr. Gene Moore of 131 Lee Bradsher Road, Hurdle Mills representing the Moore
Farm adjacent to the proposed solar farm site requested verification to his January 5,
2012 public hearing question addressed to Carolina Solar about any emissions from a
farming operation settling on the solar panels would not create any liability to the farm.
Mr. Harkrader stated Mr. Moore referred to harvest operations and plowing that could
cause dust to come off his farm; Mr. Harkrader stated the next rain would take care of
the dust and Carolina Solar would not have any problems with the issue as described.
Commissioner Jeffers made the group aware of the Voluntary Agricultural
Districts in Person County.
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There were no individuals appearing before the Board to speak in opposition of
the request by Carolina Solar Energy, LLC for a Special Use Permit for a Solar Energy
Generator on Montgomery Drive in the Flat River Township.
A motion was made by Vice Chairman Puryear, seconded by Commissioner
Jeffers and carried 5-0 to close the public hearing for the request by Carolina Solar
Energy, LLC for a Special Use Permit for a Solar Energy Generator on Montgomery
Drive in the Flat River Township.
CONSIDERATION OF REQUEST FOR SPECIAL USE PERMIT BY CAROLINA
SOLAR ENERGY, LLC FOR A SOLAR ENERGY GENERATOR ON
MONTGOMERY DRIVE, FLAT RIVER TOWNSHIP:
Commissioner Kennington stated the Airport Commission had met several times
on the issue before the Board and referred the Board to the handout provided by the
Airport Commission with the written recommendations including also the
recommendations from the FAA through Steve Bright and Brantley Burnette, requesting
the Board of Commissioners to consider adding all recommendations to the Special Use
Permit. Commissioner Kennington noted Mr. Stovall and the other gentlemen were
present at the meeting and accepted the Airport Commission recommendations along
with the recommendation from the FAA as conditions of the Special Use Permit.
Commissioner Kennington requested the additional recommendations by the Airport
Commission be included in the motion for the Special Use Permit. Mr. John
Rimmington, Chairman of the Airport Commission noted FAA support of the
recommendations noting no issue with the requested easement if all recommendations are
included in Board approval. Mr. Rimmington noted the Airport Commission vote was 5-
1 with opposition relating to interference by the solar farm on aviators approaching the
Airport. Mr. Rimmington described a test by one of their aviators of any sighting or
interference related to the 501 solar farm and there was none. Mr. Steve Watkins, a
licensed pilot and member of the Airport Commission noted his agreement with the
statement made by Mr. Rimmington, further noting no glare issues or any deterrent for
use of the solar farm adjacent to the airport.
Vice Chairman Puryear requested clarification of item 2a of the FAA
recommendations questioning if the Special Use Permit would be delayed waiting for a
response. Mr. Stovall stated the Special Use Permit would allow the applicant to start the
process noting the 7460 as referred in 2a has been filed with an expected favorable
response, further noting the FAA review is expected to be several months but will not
delay Special Use Permit process. Mr. Stovall noted Carolina Solar will be in complete
compliance with the height restrictions.
Chairman Clayton stated that Carolina Solar Energy should understand that they
are responsible for the easement preparation for Person County’s attorney to review.
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A motion was made by Commissioner Kennington, seconded by Vice Chairman
Puryear and carried 5-0 to approve the request by Carolina Solar Energy, LLC for a
Special Use Permit for a Solar Energy Generator on Montgomery Drive in the Flat River
Township with the conditions as outlined and presented by the Planning Board and
Airport Commission as well as with easement preparation by the applicant attorney and
reviewed by Person County’s attorney.
By reference the conditions as outlined and presented by the Planning /Board and
Airport Commission follow:
Planning Board:
1. Applicant to obtain all Federal, State and Local permits that are required.
2. Applicant to subdivide the property as shown on the plat and the recorded plat
presented to the Planning Department prior to the issuance of a zoning permit.
3. Access to the site by a “Class B” private road per the Person County Subdivision
Ordinance. Construction plans (drawn by a licensed professional) to be submitted
to the County Planning Department for approval. Final Road approval to be
approved by the Planning Department prior to the issuance of a Zoning Permit.
4. Parcel A and B to meet the new Falls Lake Rules with Best Management
Practices and the reduction of nitrogen and phosphorus if they exceed state
requirements.
5. Applicant to show that they have legal access to use the private portion of
Montgomery Drive.
6. Applicant to meet all required conditions and specifications of the Person County
Zoning Ordinance.
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Airport Commission:
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INFORMAL COMMENTS:
There were no comments from the public.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
A motion was made by Commissioner Blalock, seconded by Commissioner
Jeffers, and carried 5-0 to approve the minutes of January 30, 2012 and February 6,
2012.
TAX ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT:
A motion was made by Vice Chairman Puryear, seconded by Commissioner
Jeffers, and carried 5-0 to approve the Tax Administrative Report noting the Releases for
the month of January, 2012.
PROPOSAL TO CONVERT VEHICLES FROM GASOLINE TO PROPANE USE:
General Services Director, Ray Foushee provided information to the Board on the
current trend in the marketplace related to converting vehicles from gasoline to propane
noting many surrounding jurisdictions (21 municipalities in NC and SC) have switched or
have plans to switch from gasoline to propane for their fleets. Mr. Foushee introduced
Mr. Steve Whaley of Alliance Auto-Gas Research & Development to give the Board a
presentation on the costs and benefits of the proposed conversion. Mr. Foushee stated
Mr. Whaley has already shown his proposal to the Sheriff and PATS management.
Mr. Whaley gave the Board the following reasons to consider switching to
propane:
Change the fuel, not the vehicle
Lower fuel costs, less expensive alternative to foreign oil, approximately 90%
gasoline gallon equivalency, 92,000 BTUs of energy in propane comparing to
126,000 BTUs of energy in gasoline thereby a 10% loss in miles/gallon
Reduced emissions - propane is greener and cleaner -less carbon monoxide,
nitrogen oxides, and carbon dioxide
Domestic produced fuel - 90% from US Refineries which means more jobs
Conversion System includes Vapor Sequential Injection with a manual fuel
switch on dash, 20X more impact resistant Auto-Gas fuel tank than gasoline
tanks and remote fill with zero spillage and no fumes with a $5000 to $6000
conversion cost per vehicle. Conversion costs cheaper than purchasing hybrids
After-market conversion process provides for EPA certification for conversion
systems and training for certified technicians takes approximately 10 man-
hours for installation
Competitive Fuel agreement with infrastructure in place to save over $1 a
gallon on fuel costs
Alliance Auto-Gas will provide filling station at desired location
Return on Investment based on number of gallons consumed
Reduced maintenance, oil changes extended
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Warranty is 3 years/36,000 miles with an extension offered for 5 year/100,000
miles
Conversion process for maintenance equipment, i.e. lawn mowers is also
available at a cost of $800 per unit.
Mr. Whaley stated Auto-Gas also has options for a 36 month lease with no buyout
at the end for $201 per month per vehicle. Mr. Whaley noted he has worked with and
managed grants for federal funds further noting most of the grant funds options have been
depleted. Mr. Whaley offered to receive a fleet inventory list to review the data for each
vehicle fuel usage adding comparable data related to the cost savings by using propane.
Mr. Whaley recommended prioritizing by the high volume users.
Mr. Foushee confirmed for the Board that a vehicle fuel consumption tracking is
in place to acquire data noting the county purchased 136,121 gallons of gas last year.
Person County total fleet is at 147 vehicles.
Vice Chairman Puryear noted the recent additional fuel funding by the Sheriff
Department further noting an ideal time for review of cost savings and advocated for the
study to illustrate the costs savings per vehicle.
Mr. Whaley clarified the $5,800 costs of the conversion/installation with $4,375 is
the actual component costs with $1,425 costs for the installation. To transfer the system
from one car to another, the costs would include the $1,425 plus the cost of taking it off
the vehicle(s).
Commissioner Kennington commented that a full fleet conversion (147 vehicles x
$5,800 conversion) would cost $852,000 noting savings $122,508 per year based on .90
cents savings which would equal 6.9 years to break even with the conversion costs, not to
account for any conversion costs to transfer from one vehicle to another.
Mr. Whaley stated Auto-Gas would only recommend converting the high use
vehicles only for a substantial return.
COUNTY FLEET MANAGEMENT PROGRAM:
General Services Director, Ray Foushee noted at the beginning of the current
Fiscal Year, the County implemented a Vehicle Replacement Policy and provided an
update to the Board on this initiative. Mr. Foushee stated the Policy developed criteria
for replacement of vehicles based on mileage. This program began with an appropriation
of $150,000 for the purchase of six new vehicles with 90,000 miles being the threshold to
replace for the Sheriff’s Department. As vehicles are rotated and sold, the proceeds
remain in the Fleet Management Program to continue funding future needs. To date,
General Services has:
- Sold obsolete vehicles = $14,542
- Sold a retired PATS vehicle= $5,019
- Plan to sell between 7-9 surplus vehicles this spring
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Mr. Foushee confirmed the plan is to sell surplus vehicles locally by advertising
in the local newspaper and receive sealed bids. Person County does not currently
participate with GovDeals.
Mr. Foushee noted 95% of all County vehicles have been marked with a County
Seal for identification.
Mr. Foushee stated a Fleet Management Program is being reviewed for a
coordinated maintenance program for all vehicles, including discussion related to a
potential partnership with the City of Roxboro and/or Person County Schools through
their existing maintenance programs. Mr. Foushee stated if those options did not work
out, a consolidated local vendor could be bid out for all departments to use. Mr. Foushee
and the County Manager noted tracking of maintenance costs is available for review.
Commissioner Jeffers stated his support for a consolidated maintenance program.
Chairman Clayton asked Mr. Foushee about state contract pricing. Mr. Foushee
noted recent vehicles were purchased from University Ford for a price that met the state
contract pricing through their Fleet Program.
County Manager, Heidi York stated a Vehicle Use Policy as well as a list of the
vehicle inventory and their uses will be given to the Board soon. Ms. York explained
during the recommended budget, a list of the vehicles based on demand, usage, mileage
were ranked by priority to make a recommendation that fit the budget constraints. Mr.
Foushee confirmed the Sheriff purchases vehicles through the Sheriff budget and all other
county vehicles are purchased through Fleet in the General Services Department.
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING FOR LIBRARY SERVICES:
Library Director, Christy Bondy stated as part of the Dissolution Plan for the
Hyconeechee Regional Library System, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was
developed between the three counties to continue selected library services for the benefit
of all citizens. The MOU outlines data migration dates, transfer of assets, vendor
selections, remaining debts and news services. Ms. Bondy noted Person County will
continue with the Polaris Program at a cost of $17,000 per year. Ms. Bondy noted Person
County will not have any anticipated debt as of June 30, 2012 related to the Dissolution.
Ms. Bondy stated the County Attorney has reviewed and approved the MOU. Ms. Bondy
recommended that the Board of County Commissioners approve the Memorandum of
Understanding and direct the Board Chairman to sign the document to be sent to the
North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources State Library.
A motion was made by Commissioner Blalock, seconded by Vice Chairman
Puryear and carried 5-0 to approve the Memorandum of Understanding for Library
Services as presented.
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COMMUNITY CHILD PROTECTION TEAM ANNUAL REPORT:
Interim Department of Social Services Director, Carlton Paylor stated the
Community Child Protection Team (CCPT) was established to form a partnership to
strengthen child protection in our community. In NC Administrative Code 10A NCAC
70.0201 the nature and purpose of the team shall be established in every county of the
state of NC consisting of representatives of public and non-public agencies in the
community that provide a services to children and their families. The function of the
CCPT is to:
Identify gaps in deficiencies in community resources which have impact on
the incidence of abuse, neglect or dependency
Advocate for a system of improvements and needed resources where and
deficiencies exists in the child protection system
Promote collaboration from agencies in the creation or improvement of
resources for children as result of their review from cases
Inform the county commissioners about the actions needed to prevent or
change child abuse, neglect or dependency.
Mr. Paylor acknowledged the following participating agencies:
Guardian Ad Litem District Attorney’s Office
Roxboro Police Department Partnership for Children
Cooperative Extension Local Mental Health
Person County Schools Health Department
Local Medical Office Dept. of Social Services
Sheriff’s Department
Mr. Paylor introduced the CCPT Chair, Ms. Nancy Wagstaff, to present the
Annual Report to the Board.
Ms. Wagstaff read the CCPT Mission Statement as follows:
Recognizing that child protection is the responsibility of everyone and responding
to child protection needs in more effective ways for a child that is harmed. The CCPT, a
team composed of agency representatives, child advocates and citizens at large will take
action to identify and address gaps of deficiencies in services and resources through the
Annual Report to the Board of County Commissioners. Collaboration with community
partners promoting public awareness and advocating for action that address the child
protection needs for each county.
Ms. Wagstaff outlined the following Annual Report:
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Chairman Clayton offered his assistance related to the transition of OPC to PBH.
Commissioner Blalock noted a public awareness forum which is scheduled for April 2,
2012 at 5:30 pm in the Auditorium prior to the Board meeting.
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MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT BETWEEN PERSON COUNTY AND
SPUNTECH:
County Manager, Heidi York stated representatives of Spuntech have requested to
install an industrial process well on County-owned property (Tax Map A58-86 –
approximately 25 acres) adjacent to North Park Drive, LLC (Spuntech). Ms. York
pointed out the general location on property tax map A58-124. The facility is currently
served by city water; however, Spuntech is exploring the possibility of utilizing
groundwater for the water needed for industrial processing. Ms. York noted that
recently, one well was drilled on the Spuntech property with low yield. Spuntech has
agreed to assume all costs associated with the project. Ms. York stated if after
completion of the well, it proves to be productive, the County will transfer no more than
.6 acre to Spuntech as an incentive for future expansion of business. Ms. York noted if
the well proves to be unproductive, Spuntech will be responsible for all regulations for
abandoning the well.
Ms. York presented a Memorandum of Agreement outlining the responsibilities
of Spuntech, i.e., well permit, all fees, contract for well drilled at their expense,
preparation of a plat and deed of transfer plus recording fees, no cross connections, etc.
for Board approval.
Mr. Jim Stovall offered the Board information related to the request noting an
industrial process well will lower the costs for Spuntech by $10,000 per month, further
noting the city water will be retained for domestic use, preventive fire use and in case the
well does not produce.
A motion was made by Commissioner Kennington, seconded by Commissioner
Blalock and carried 5-0 to approve the Memorandum of Agreement between Person
County and Spuntech and authorize the County Manager to sign.
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REQUEST TO AMEND THE EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES BUDGET
FOR FISCAL YEAR 2011-2012:
County Manager, Heidi York informed the Board that due to severe cuts in the
current fiscal year operating budget of Emergency Medical Services and many
unanticipated costs and events that further depleted the operating budget, a request for
additional funding is necessary. In order to maintain services through the current fiscal
year, an appropriation of $60,000 is needed to cover the following shortages:
$16,000 in Personnel Overtime due to an unexpected increase in workers
compensation cases and a lack of part-time personnel able to cover shifts
$3,000 in Professional Services due to the transition of the Medical Director
$20,000 in Medical Supplies due to an initial purchase in July of $20,000 to reach
a basic operational level of supplies
$1,000 in Postage to cover the costs of mailing the trade-in monitors, parts
shipping and loaner equipment returns
$5,000 in Maintenance and Repair of Vehicles due to unexpected vehicle repairs
and maintenance and associated deductibles
$5,000 in Capital Equipment for statutorily-required body storage equipment.
Person Memorial Hospital has agreed to reimburse the County for half of the cost
There were several invoices that came in after July that were for services prior to
June
The total requested funds Emergency Medical Services are in the amount of
$50,000.
The Emergency Management budget was depleted to cover many of the shortages
in the Emergency Medical Services budget. With the hiring of the new director and the
payout of the previous director, the following appropriations are requested:
$9,750 in Salary and Benefits
$250 in Uniforms
The total requested funds for Emergency Management are in the amount of
$10,000.
Ms. York recommended the Board to appropriate the requested $60,000 funding
from the Courthouse Contingency Fund that was an approved line item in the CIP to
cover any cost shortages in the Courthouse Renovation Project. Ms. York noted the
project has not been completed but determined that the contingency of $100,000 will not
be needed.
Ms. York commended the Interim EMS Director, Penny Payne for decreasing
departmental costs by cutting oxygen fees in half by renegotiating the price, reducing
laundry costs by $7,500, saving over $10,000 by switching vendors for laptops, cutting
medical supply costs by $1,000 as well as implemented new billing software that is
estimating to save $200,000 annually.
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Commissioner Kennington asked for clarity related to the $5,000 capital
equipment with Person Memorial Hospital. Ms. York noted a recent agreement with
Person Memorial Hospital to share costs 50/50 for body storage equipment as well as
provide a location at the hospital to store the equipment. Commissioner Kennington and
Ms. Payne acknowledged the community partner Person Memorial Hospital has been.
Board members complimented Ms. Payne’s efforts.
A motion was made by Commissioner Kennington, seconded by Vice Chairman
Puryear and carried 5-0 to approve the additional funding requests to the Emergency
Medical Services ($50,000) and Emergency Management ($10,000) budgets as well as
appropriate the funding from the Courthouse Contingency Fund as presented.
REQUEST FOR VOTING PRIVILEGE FOR TOURISM DEVELOPMENT
AUTHORITY BOARD MEMBER:
A letter dated February 4, 2012 from the Director of Person County Tourism
Development Authority, Margaret McMann was received by Chairman Clayton
requesting the Board to grant county appointee, Tammy Woods, voting privileges on the
Person County Tourism Development Authority Board. Ms. Woods who is the General
Manager of the Hampton Inn does not live in Person County yet represents county
hotel/motel as mandated in legislative on the board.
A motion was made by Commissioner Kennington, seconded by Commissioner
Blalock and carried 4-1 to grant voting privileges to Tammy Woods as a non resident on
the Person County Tourism Development Authority Board. Commissioner Jeffers cast
the lone dissenting vote noting his opposition to the recently revised Resolution not
allowing county appointed members to boards and commissions a vote unless they are a
resident of the county.
ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE INITIATIVES:
Commissioner Blalock congratulated the Health Department on exceeding
expectations on a recent accreditation site visit. Commissioner Blalock noted health can
be influenced by policies. Commissioner Blalock told the group that Health in All
Policies (HiAP) is a strategy to help strengthen the environment, fiscal policies, housing,
and transportation. Commissioner Blalock stated the Board should make sure HiAP be
included in Person County policies because of looming obesity, chronic diseases such as
cancer, diabetes, and the cognitive decline associated with aging.
February 20, 2012
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The United States Environmental Protection Agency has released its overarching
strategy for advancing Environmental Justice (Plan EJ 2014). It seeks to:
Protect the environment and health in overburdened communities
Empower communities to take action to improve their health and environment
Establish partnerships with local, state, tribal, and federal governments and
organizations to achieve healthy and sustainable communities.
Commissioner Blalock asked the Board as they look to the future and focus on
bringing jobs to Person County to remember the described two key goals, HiAP and
Environmental Justice to help provide a safe, healthy environmental for all citizens.
BUDGET AMENDMENT:
Finance Director, Amy Wehrenberg presented and explained the following
Budget Amendment.
Upon a motion by Commissioner Jeffers, and a second by Commissioner Blalock
and majority vote (5-0), the Board of Commissioners of Person County does hereby
amend the Budget of the Fund(s) listed below on this, the 20th day of February 2012,
as follows:
Dept./Acct No. Department Name Amount
Incr / (Decr)
EXPENDITURES General Fund
Public Safety 984
Culture & Recreation 17,166
Human Services 122,120
REVENUES General Fund
Other Revenue 984
Fund Balance Appropriation 17,166
Intergovernmental Revenues 122,120
Explanation:
Received insurance claim for vehicle damage in Sheriff's Department ($984); funding
for Energy/Heating Programs in DSS ($122,120); and appropriating fund balance in the
Library Fund to cover cost of software contract ($17,166).
February 20, 2012
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CHAIRMAN’S REPORT:
Chairman Clayton reported the following:
The Board will be updated soon related to stormwater meeting actions
All paperwork has been signed by Board of Education Chairman, Gordon Powell
to transfer the old Helena School property to the county
Community interests in an advisory group for the use of the old Helena School
building and grounds
Noted a letter of response from the Board to the gentlemen complaining of the
Tax Administrator related to his automobile tax will be signed and mailed this
date.
MANAGER’S REPORT:
County Manager, Heidi York stated she has not received the paperwork related to
the transfer of the old Helena property noting the community college is eager to move
forward on that project as a partner.
Ms. York noted the she had communicated the position the community college
had taken related to the old Post Office.
COMMISSIONER REPORT/COMMENTS:
Commissioner Kennington advocated for the county to acquire the old Post Office
property and requested to add this item for discussion on the next Board agenda.
Commissioner Blalock asked if the Board was scheduled for a Community
Conversations Meeting at the old Helena site. Commissioner Blalock suggested having
community input related to the old Helena School site. Chairman Clayton suggested
having community input regarding the stormwater issues. Ms. York confirmed the date
for the Community Conversations Meeting is April 30, 2012 at 6:30 pm at the old Helena
School cafeteria.
Commissioner Jeffers reported the following:
he and Chairman Clayton would be attending a NC Association of County
Commissioners Board of Directors meeting on Wednesday, February 22, 2012
he would attend a Public Education Steering Committee meeting on Thursday,
February 23, 2012
confirmed for the County Manager the three roads with severe littering are
Allensville, Lawson Chapel, and Dirgie Mine
announced the Recreation Board is recruiting volunteers for sub-committees, i.e.
Facilities, Athletics, Special Programs, Mayo Park, etc.
requested clarification related to the fire contract investigations for several
suspected arson for recent fires. Ms. York stated she would try to obtain a report.
February 20, 2012
33
Vice Chairman Puryear had no report.
County Attorney, Ron Aycock reported to the Board on the following:
Mable Watkins, citizen, appearing before the Board relating to a dispute of her
property. Upon review of the paperwork provided by Ms. Watkins, Mr. Aycock,
in his opinion, believes a private dispute, not a dispute involving the county. Mr.
Aycock stated he would call Ms. Watkins to advise of his opinion.
Patrick Riley, citizen with two property tax appeals before the Property Tax
Commission relating to the present-use valuation of his property was heard on
Thursday, February 16, 2012. The Property Tax Commission ruled by dismissing
the two appeals. Mr. Riley has the option to appeal to the Court of Appeals.
Commissioner Kennington asked the County Manager if a date had been set for
the Board to meeting in joint session with the Board of Education. Ms. York noted the
joint session with the Board of Education is planned for April 16, 2012 at 6:00 pm in the
Auditorium.
Ms. York announced a joint session meeting with the City of Roxboro is
scheduled for March 27, 2012 at 5:30 pm for dinner with the meeting starting at 6:00 pm
at the Perfect Venue. Ms. York noted the meeting would not be streamed at that location.
It was the consensus of the Board to video and archive to the web site any such meetings
that are unable to be streamed live.
CLOSED SESSION:
A motion was made by Commissioner Blalock, seconded by Vice Chairman
Puryear, and carried 5-0 to enter into Closed Session per General Statute 143-
318.11(a)(2) for the purpose to consult with the county attorney in order to preserve the
attorney-client privilege at 1:17 p.m. and to allow the County Manager, Clerk to the
Board, County Attorney and Tax Administrator to attend.
A motion was made by Commissioner Blalock, seconded by Vice Chairman
Puryear and carried 5-0 to return to open session at 1:44 p.m.
February 20, 2012
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ADJOURNMENT:
A motion was made by Commissioner Blalock, seconded by Commissioner
Jeffers, and carried 5-0 to adjourn the meeting at 1:45 p.m.
_____________________________ ______________________________
Brenda B. Reaves Jimmy B. Clayton
Clerk to the Board Chairman