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August 20PERSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS August 20, 2007 MEMBERS PRESENT OTHERS PRESENT Johnny Myrl Lunsford, Chairman Steve Carpenter, County Manager Jimmy B. Clayton, Vice-Chairman Ronald C. Aycock, County Attorney Kyle W. Puryear Faye T. Fuller, Clerk to the Board Larry H. Bowes Brenda Reaves, Deputy Clerk to the Board Larry E. Yarborough, Jr. ***************************************************************************** The Board of Commissioners for the County of Person, North Carolina, met in regular session on Monday, August 20, 2007 at 9:00 a.m. in the Commissioners’ Room of the Person County Office Building. Chairman Lunsford called the meeting to order. Commissioner Clayton led in prayer and Commissioner Bowes led the Pledge of Allegiance. PUBLIC HEARINGS: ► Request to Rezone Tax Map 67, Parcels 20 and 74 and the Southern Portion of A69/53 from Residential to Rural Conservation on Halifax Road for Force Protection Industries, Inc. A motion was made by Commissioner Puryear, seconded by Commissioner Bowes and carried to open the duly advertised Public Hearing. County Planner Paula Murphy stated the request was submitted by Force Protection, Inc. to amend the official zoning map. The request is to rezone Tax Map 67, Parcels 20 and 74 and the southern portion of A69/53 (part of the C&A property) on Halifax Road from Residential to Rural Conservation. If rezoned, all land uses permitted in the RC District will be allowed. The general intent of the RC District is to provide for only limited land use controls in areas with limited nonagricultural development. The Person County Land Use Plan’s “Future Land Use Map” shows this area as Suburban Residential. It is defined as Residential land uses including subdivisions and manufactured home parks at densities of 1-3 dwelling units per acre; commercial, office, \industrial, public/institutional uses meeting locational criteria. Locational criteria for nonresidential uses within this land use category would include frontage and access to major State highway or secondary road, proximity to similar uses and spatial separation from non- compatible uses such as existing residential development. Land uses within this category could develop with or without public sewer. 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. Section 160-5(B) of the Zoning Ordinance 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 August 20, 2007 1 that a proposed amendment is inconsistent with the comprehensive plan shall not preclude consideration or approval of the proposed amendments by the Board of County Commissioners. Parcel 74 consists of 5.58 acres and Parcel 20 consists of 66.5 acres. Tax Map A69, Parcel 53 consists of 150+ acres and part of the parcel is in the Woodsdale Township and zoned RC while a portion if in the Roxboro Township and zoned Residential. There are no one hundred year flood areas on the property nor are any of them within a designated watershed. The property is served by City water and sewer and access to the site is on Halifax Road. If rezoned to RC, typical uses permitted by right in the RC are as follows: ABC store, retail sales, auto repair, convenience stores, restaurants, funeral homes, golf courses, mobile home sales, nurseries, professional office and a multitude of other things. There are other uses allowed with a Special Use Permit such as explosive storage, nontoxic incinerators, industrial operations, mobile home park, landfill and planned building groups. If the property were to remain industrial, the following uses would be permitted by right: single family dwelling, Class “A” and Class “B” manufactured homes, modular homes, family care homes, nursery operations, horse stables, etc. The Residential district allows other uses by either a special use or a conditional use permit such as multiple family dwellings, planned building groups, private recreation for profit, antique shops, bed & breakfasts, camping areas, churches, day care centers and others. The two parcels on the southern portion of the Elm Plant are located in the Roxboro Township and zoned Residential. When the Roxboro Township zoning was developed in 1965, there was no allowance for Rural Conservation because there was no such zoning district at that time; therefore, there is no RC. The parcels are wooded vacant land. The adjacent properties in the Woodsdale Township are all zoned RC because it was zoned at a different time. Staff recommends that if this rezoning request is approved in that it is compatible with the Land Use Plan and does not constitute spot zoning. The Planning Board reviewed this item at their August 9, 2007 meeting as a Public Hearing item and voted 7 to 1 to recommend the rezoning in that it is in keeping with the Land Use Plan, Section 2.1. Chairman Lunsford asked if there was anyone who wished to speak in favor of the proposed rezoning. Glen Newsome – Spoke in support of the rezoning. It is adjacent to the existing property which was previously used for industrial purposes. It is consistent with the Land Use Plan and would promote economic development in accordance with Section 2.1 of that plan. The Planning Board has given a favorable recommendation. August 20, 2007 2 Winfred Clayton - questioned if a landfill would be permitted in this area. Commissioner Yarborough responded that if a landfill would be proposed, it would require another public hearing for a Special Use Permit. There were no other comments. A motion was made by Commissioner Bowes, seconded by Commissioner Yarborough and carried to close the Public Hearing. A motion was made by Commissioner Puryear, seconded by Commissioner Clayton and carried to approve the rezoning of Tax Map 67, Parcels 20 and 74 and the southern portion of A69/53 from Residential to Rural Conservation. ► Request for A Special Use Permit for Force Protection Industries, Inc. for Tax Map 67, Parcels 20 and 74 and A69/53 for the Purpose of Manufacturing Armored Vehicles on Halifax Road A motion was made by Commissioner Puryear, seconded by Commissioner Clayton and carried to open the duly advertised Public Hearing. County Planner Paula Murphy stated this is a request by Force Protection Industries, Inc. for a Special Use Permit for Tax Map 67, Parcels 20 and 74 and A69/53 for the purpose of manufacturing armored vehicles on Halifax Road. The company will occupy an existing 430,000 square foot facility that was formerly Collins & Aikman. A site plan has been provided. Any changes to the site plan will require a Special Use Permit. Ms. Murphy clarified that under Note 2 of the Zoning Ordinance, the processing, manufacture or fabrication of ammunition, explosive, fireworks, gunpowder is not allowed. Ms. Murphy presented a site plan which showed the existing building and parking area. It is anticipated there will be 270 employees in the first four years. The plans show 383 spaces which will meet the ordinance. The Ordinance requires 1.5 spaces per each employee on the maximum shift. In the Special Use Permit, the Board is approving the site plan that is presented; not anything in the future that will change it, which includes any expansion to the building, any changes in the parking, any changes in the roads. Section 74-10 of the Ordinance allows the Zoning Administrator to approve minor changes. There are definitions as to what is are minor and what are major changes. Included is notification to adjacent property owners in which they are given ten days to order to comment. Any changes that are allowed is limited to 10% before it comes back to the Planning Board. There are no flood areas on the property, nor is it within any designated watersheds. August 20, 2007 3 In granting the Special Use Permit, the Board shall 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. Section 160-5(B) of the Zoning Ordinance 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 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 stated that should the Board 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. The Board also needs to address the Findings of Fact in Section 74-4 and be consistent with the Land Use Plan The Planning Board reviewed this at their August 9, 2007 meeting and voted 7 to 1 to recommend approval of the Special Use Permit since it is in keeping with the Land Use Plan, also Section 74-4 of the Ordinance and similar to the prior use of the property. Chairman Lunsford asked if there was anyone who wished to speak in favor of the proposed Special Use Permit. Glen Newsome – Spoke in favor of the Special Use Permit - The product will consist of mine resistant vehicles. The testing range for the company is in South Carolina. There will be no bomb testing anticipated for the Person County site. The company will product the Cheetah line of MRAP vehicles. The recommendation is consistent with the Land Use Plan in that it promotes economic development. Force Protection will create at a minimum 270 new jobs with an investment in excess of $31 million. The company will allow Person County to reuse a vacant industrial facility. The company will also yield Person County approximately $217,000 in new property taxes. No one spoke in opposition to the request. August 20, 2007 4 A motion was made by Commissioner Clayton, seconded by Commissioner Puryear and carried to close the Public Hearing. A motion was made by Commissioner Clayton, seconded by Commissioner Yarborough and carried to approve the Special Use Permit for Force Protection, Inc. for Tax Maps 67, parcels 20 and 74 and A69/53 for the purpose of manufacturing armored vehicles on Halifax Road. The motion further included the following condition: 1. Applicant to obtain all Federal, State and Local permits that are required. The Board also found that the Findings of Fact in Section 74-4 were met and the proposal is consistent with the Land Use Plan. ► Consideration of Appropriation of County General Funds to be Made Available to PCBIC for its Use, in Compliance With Applicable Law, to Assist Force Protection Industries, Inc. (FPI) With the Location of a Manufacturing Facility in Person County A motion was made by Commissioner Clayton, seconded by Commissioner Bowes and carried to open the duly advertised public hearing. Chairman Lunsford asked for comments in favor of the appropriation of county general funds to be made available to PCBIC to assist Force Protection, Inc. with its location in Person County. Good Morning Mr. Chairman, Commissioners. I am Jim Stovall, Chairman of the Roxboro-Person County Development Board and I am here this morning to present to you, as required by existing North Carolina law, our request for the appropriation of General county funds for the recruitment incentives for Force Protection, Inc. and to review the individual project requests with you and further to request with your approval that such approved funds be made available to the Person County’s Economic Development Corporation-The Person County Business and Industrial Center (PCBIC) for disbursement as projects are completed according to the Resolution that you will review later. Force Protection, as you know, has committed to invest a minimum of $31M in this new project and provide a minimum of 270 jobs in four (4) years – numbers I feel they will far exceed. Production is on schedule to begin assembly of their newest – MRAP – mine resistant ambush protected – vehicle, the “Cheetah” in October/early November of this year. I’ll review the list of recruitment incentives in the order they are listed in the Public Hearing Notice: August 20, 2007 5 1. The acquisition by PCBIC of the railroad siding at SR 1326, known as the Woodsdale siding, involves the purchase of two tracts, totaling approximately twenty-three acres. Also includes the leasing of the existing Norfolk-Southern siding for ten years. PCBIC is the county’s public/private economic development corporation and was established in the early 1990’s at the recommendation of the NC Department of Commerce and under the control of the Board of Commissioners and was used successfully in recruiting GKN, Wolverine Tube, Georgia Pacific, Louisiana Pacific and Spuntech. At present PCBIC owns the remaining acreage at our 501 South Park and at Person North Park. This rail site would be its third property. This rail siding is a required part of this recruitment by both Force Protection and the Department of Defense. This satellite rail site will both receive and ship product for Force Protection. If enhanced to their present plans, Force Protection will spend between $600,000 and $1million on this site. The cost of the land, $93,095.77, the lease with Norfolk Southern, a required EPA study and grant toward site improvements - $206,905- are a not-to-exceed $300,000 total with PCBIC ownership. As long as Force Protection meets all incentive covenants, the lease will be one dollar ($1.00) per year. 2. The Person County Economic Development Commission and the Roxboro-Person County Development Board, as well as Force Protection, in our combined due diligence have performed EPA studies, site appraisals, roof core cuts, facility studies, infrared roof scans, as well as negotiated real estate contracts on behalf of PCBIC and Force Protection. Since these pertain to real estate, they are required by law to be so noted. Associated costs for item #2 are combined in item #3. 3. As many of you know, there is an existing cart part easement to several property owners adjoining Force Protection known as Cattle Drive located immediately behind the existing facility. As both a requirement of Force Protection and the Department of Defense, this easement must be relocated. We are truly grateful to the five families that this existing easement now serves for working with us in having this easement relocated. This incentive entails acquiring the existing easement and surveying, logging, grading, preparing and seeding a new approximately 1100 ft. road to replace the present Cattle Drive and establishing a minimum ten year road maintenance fund. These same property owners have also agreed to a later relocation of the existing Katmandu Road if Force Protection so chooses to re-locate part of Katmandu. The cost of this relocation and the associated maintenance fund would be at the total cost of Force Protection. The cost of this incentive is a not-to-exceed $270,000.00. 4. The construction of the eight foot chain link fence around the existing Force Protection property is a required project by both Force Protection and the Department of Defense and has a maximum not-to-exceed value of $750,000.00. August 20, 2007 6 We will be providing a large portion of this fencing but our list of choices for incentives to Force Protection was a menu of incentives and our cost on this option will be less than the not-to-exceed amount, but is required to be presented as stated to meet North Carolina law. 5. As you Commissioners know from our earlier briefing to you, the extent of the roofing needs at the existing Elm Plant, after a very extensive due diligence, showed that the cost of repairs to this 450,000 sq. ft. facility will be between $2.3 and $2.5 million. PCBIC has offered $100,000 assistance toward these repairs. 6. The cell reception in the northern part of the county is very weak. Cell and laptop use inside and outside the facility is not at acceptable levels. Even when cell towers are built in this area, the problems inside this size facility will not be solved. PCBIC has agreed to provide the signal boosting capacity of a mini cell tower inside the Force Protection facility, making it a neutral host. This will also enhance the existing neighborhood reception. This is a not-to-exceed cost $125,000 project. As mentioned, this is a menu of recruitment incentives and with the portions of each that Force Protection has chosen, we ask the County Commissioners to appropriate $1.1 million for the recruitment of Force Protection as submitted in the authorizing resolution that you will review later. As per the Board of Commissioners requirements, there are “claw back” provisions in our agreement with Force Protection that mirror those of the N. C. Department of Commerce. Basically stating that the percentage of incentives are paid for the percentage of jobs and investments met. Again, Force Protection will far exceed these numbers. At the present tax rate of $.70/$100 valuation, it will take less than five years of property tax alone for the county to recover its investment. Our present infrastructure guidelines are for payback in seven years. And remember, almost every dollar you are spending is on an asset that is going to be added to the tax base or is on property you will ultimately control through PCBIC. 7. May I also briefly thank our economic development partners who aided us financially so much in this recruitment – Progress Energy, Embarq, Norfolk- Southern. From our state- the Jobs Tax Credit, the Investment Tax Credit, the Jobs Development Investment Grant, the Economic Development Rider, and the State Sales Tax Reduction Agreement. From the Rural Center, a $400,000 grant, which requires a $10,000 match from the County. And from Governor Easley, for his $500,000 grant from the One North Carolina Fund, requiring a $500,000 match from the County. All of these “matches” are met in the $1.1 million request. There are too many local individuals and groups to thank at this time, but I assure you Commissioners, your support and the total community support for the project are the reasons Force Protection is here today. August 20, 2007 7 In closing, a brief update on Force Protection – as earlier stated, much work is in progress, turning this plant into a major vehicle manufacturing facility, hiring contractors, key management positions has begun. They are beginning assembly employee hiring. Force Protection has been very impressed with the Person County workforce pool and especially Roxie Russell with the Employment Security Commission and to Doris Carver and Debra Seamster of Piedmont Community College for the excellent job they are doing. Employment projections are ahead of schedule. They will be close to 200 or more employees by the end of the first quarter in 2008. In recent weeks there have been several new contracts for “Cheetahs” by the Marines. Force Protection is aiming to produce over 2000 Cheetahs in 2008. The enhanced product line up here will include other than the Cheetah. Dan Busher, Executive Vice-President in charge of this project will be the speaker for the Chamber Coffee Hour on September 26, 2007 at the Golden Corral at 8:00 a.m. At the main roll-out ceremony in October or November, they will have the multiples of the Buffaloes, Cougars and the Cheetahs. Force Protection is a wonderful company and people whose mission is to protect our US service men and women – one we all share in. Chairman Lunsford asked for comments from anyone present in opposition to the proposal. No one spoke. A motion was made by Commissioner Bowes, seconded by Commissioner Puryear and carried to close the public hearing. A motion was made by Commissioner Yarborough, seconded by Commissioner Puryear to approve the appropriation of County General Funds to PCBIC for its use, in compliance with applicable law, to assist Force Protection, Inc. with the location of a manufacturing facility in Person County. The motion was approved unanimously. DISCUSSION/ADJUSTMENT/APPROVAL OF AGENDA: A motion was made by Commissioner Yarborough, seconded by Commissioner Bowes and carried to remove two items from the agenda and approve the agenda as amended. The two items removed: Presentation of Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting and Discussion of Proposed Contract by and Between Person County and the Animal Protection Society of Person County. INFORMAL COMMENTS: Larry Cole – Expressed concerns about a subdivision proposed for Lewis Winstead Loop Road – Concerned subdivision will not be in harmony with existing neighborhood and that proposed road entrance will create traffic problems. August 20, 2007 8 Ashley Thomas – Spoke in opposition to landfill expansion – lives a few miles away from landfill – Spoke of how it will affect teens in future. Flora Peed – Asked Board to reconsider thinking about landfill expansion. Frances Blalock: Speaking for PCPride – PCPride does not condone malicious activity. PCPride would profit nothing by making threats – Asked for confirmation of attendees for Horry County tour. Russell Seamon – Proplexed by Board actions – Felt that PCPride has the answer- recycle. Betty Blalock – Brought her grand nieces who she said live closer to the landfill than she. The children are the ones who will be hurt by the expansion. She also spoke of Republic’s contract infractions. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: A motion was made by Commissioner Bowes, seconded by Commissioner Puryear and carried to approve the minutes of August 6, 2007. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS: The following Administrative Reports were received and accepted by motion of Commissioner Yarborough and second by Commissioner Clayton - Detention Center, Inspection Department, and Public Library. REQUEST TO APPROVE A MAJOR SUBDIVISION CONCEPT PLAN - WOODS AT MOORE’S GLEN: County Planner Paula Murphy addressed the concerns brought up at the last meeting by Mr. Larry Cole. He was concerned that the proposed subdivision would not have restrictions. Ms. Murphy said restrictions are not covered in the Subdivision Ordinance. Anything that is permitted in that particular zoning district is allowed. Another issue he addressed was flood plains. Ms. Murphy said there is a lot of flood plain on the property and one of the conditions placed on the concept plan by the Planning Board is that the final plat should show the exact location of the flood plains. Mr. Cole was also concerned about the road entrance. Ms. Murphy said the road entrance is not to be changed. She also said according to the Subdivision Ordinance, once six lots are created and the developer goes to the seventh, provided the road is changed, the road will have to meet NCDOT standards. Family subdivisions are the only ones without road restrictions. She also noted she had no knowledge of the presence of a cemetery on the property. A motion was made by Commissioner Clayton, seconded by Commissioner Bowes and carried to approve the Major Subdivision Concept Plan for Woods at Moore’s Glen. August 20, 2007 9 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING APPROPRIATION AND EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FOR FORCE PROTECTION INDUSTRIES, INC.: The following Resolution Authorizing Appropriation and Expenditure of Funds for Economic Development for Force Protection Industries, Inc. was approved by motion of Chairman Lunsford and second by Commissioner Yarborough. A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING APPROPRIATION AND EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FOR FORCE PROTECTION, INC. Whereas, Person County has caused to be created the Person County Business and Industrial Center ( PCBIC) for the purpose of helping to foster economic development in the County; and Whereas, PCBIC has recently been instrumental in securing the location of a new industry, Force Protection, Inc. (FPI) to be located in the County which will manufacture motor vehicles for the US military; and Whereas, the County finds that the most effective and economical means to provide incentives for FPI to locate in the County is to utilize the PCBIC for that purpose; and Whereas, the County finds that consistent with North Carolina law the provision of assistance to FPI through PCBIC is in the public interest; and Whereas, such assistance shall include but not be limited to: 1. The acquisition by PCBIC of railroad siding property on the East side of SR1326 at a cost of $93,095.72 and the development and long term lease of such property, together with an adjacent rail spur line to be leased by Norfolk Southern Corporation, to FPI at a total cost over 10 years not to exceed of $206,905.00. 2. The acquisition of options or contracts for the acquisition by FPI, at its expense, of a site for its facility on SR 1521 and additional property on the east side of SR 1521 and adjoining on the south the FPI facility site. This assistance includes the provision of an environmental study and physical inspection reports relative to the facility site. 3. The relocation of a private access easement on property owned by FPI and construction of a portion of an alternate access easement, at a cost not to exceed $270,000. 4. The construction of fencing around the perimeter of property owned and to be acquired by FPI, at a cost not to exceed $750,000. 5. Assistance to FPI with roof repair at its facility, at a cost not to exceed $100,000.00 August 20, 2007 10 6. Construction of an on-site neutral host to enhance cellular phone service at the FPI facility, at a cost not to exceed $125,000.00; and Whereas, the County finds that FPI has entered into an undertaking with PCBIC whereby the consideration provided by FPI for the lease referenced in item 1 above includes a verifiable commitment to (i) specified levels of capital investment and new employment within the County and (ii) repayment of sums expended by the County in connection with said lease in the event that the levels of investment and employment agreed upon are not reached within specified time frames; and Whereas, The County finds that the public benefits to be derived from this economic development project are increase in the property tax base, employment opportunities, tax revenues and business prospects in the County. More specifically, the County Board of Commissioners finds that consideration for the appropriations authorized herein and conveyances and/or leases authorized are statutorily adequate and include the following: The company will generate a minimum of $31 Million in new capital investment and create in excess of 270 new manufacturing jobs, a substantial number of which will pay at or above the median average wage in Person County and property tax revenues generated by this project will replace these funds in less than five years. Now, therefore be it resolved by the Person County Board of Commissioners that: 1. There is hereby appropriated the sum of 1.1 million dollars to a reserve fund entitled “Incentive Fund for Force Protection, Inc.”. The directions and limitations for drawing monies from this fund are as follows: a) Upon periodic submittal to the County Finance Officer of an invoice by PCBIC certifying that events and activities have occurred consistent with this Resolution and the Contract between FPI and PCBIC, The Finance Officer shall issue payment to PCBIC for transmittal to or expenditure on behalf of FPI. b) Certification of final completion of this project shall be provided to the Finance Officer by PCBIC. 2. Activities and actions noted in the Whereas clauses of this resolution are hereby specifically approved. 3. The chair of the board is specifically authorized to execute any agreements necessary to effectuate this resolution. Adopted this the 20th day of August, 2007. (Signed) Faye T. Fuller, CMC Johnny Myrl Lunsford, Chairman Clerk to the Board Person County Board of Commissioners August 20, 2007 11 PRESENTATION OF CERTIFICATE OF ACHIEVEMENT FOR EXCELLENCE IN FINANCIAL REPORTING: Deferred until a later meeting due to absence of full staff from the Finance Department. DISCUSSION OF PROPOSED CONTRACT BY AND BETWEEN PERSON COUNTY AND THE ANIMAL PROTECTION SOCIETY OF PERSON COUNTY: Deferred until September 4, 2007 meeting. RESOLUTION SUPPORTING KERR-TAR WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT BOARD AND KERR-TAR INTERLOCAL CONSORTIUM FOR JOB TRAINING REQUEST FOR FINANCIAL SUPPORT AND ADVOCACY FROM STATE & LOCAL GOVERNMENT AGENCIES: The following Resolution was approved by motion of Commissioner Clayton, second by Chairman Lunsford and unanimous approval. RESOLUTION OF THE PERSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS SUPPORTING THE WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT BOARD & CONSORTIUM’S REQUEST FOR FINANCIAL SUPPORT AND ADVOCACY FROM STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT AGENCIES WHEREAS, the Person County Board of Commissioners supports the Workforce Development Board and Consortium’s efforts in seeking ways to address the unacceptable drop out rate in our school systems; and WHEREAS, the Kerr-Tar Workforce Development Board and Kerr-Tar Interlocal Consortium for Job Training have fiduciary responsibility for the Workforce Investment Act funds administered by the Kerr-Tar Regional Council of Governments; and has invited local governments to apply for such funding; and, WHEREAS, the Kerr-Tar Workforce Development Board and Kerr-Tar Interlocal Consortium have established priorities to develop a workforce to satisfy the current labor needs, as well as the targeted industry clusters being recruited for the region for the Kerr-Tar Hub; and, WHEREAS, the Kerr-Tar Regional Council of Governments along with the WIA Program, have funded a Labor Area Study from the UNC Center of Competitive Economies, which shows a shortage of technically task focused skilled technicians to replace an aging workforce, as well as a substantial out-commuting pattern of skilled workers in the region; and WHEREAS, the Kerr-Tar Workforce Development Board and Kerr-Tar Interlocal Consortium, resultant of its Strategic Planning Process, have convened a task force comprised of community college presidents, local industry representatives, county commissioners, school board chairs, economic developers, and school superintendents, to discuss current and future labor market needs; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Person County Board of Commissioners that financial support and advocacy is needed from state and local governments, economic development corporations, and educational institutions to aid in accomplishing the following work to aid in transforming the workforce in the Kerr-Tar Region, as well as aiding in the recruitment of businesses to the Kerr-Tar Hub: • To encourage the State Board of Education to retain the college tech prep track, with modifications for meeting current and future needs, and the college university prep track for high school graduation. This will August 20, 2007 12 improve the current dismal graduation rate while at the same time increasing the rigor and relevance and diversity in programs necessary to prepare students for the workplace and secondary education. • To support the expansion of Governor Easley’s Learn and Earn Program. Substantial additional funding is recommended for the program in order that high school graduates may earn an associate degree from a community college with one additional year of study beyond high school. This cooperative program between community colleges and public schools will focus on technical education for the workforce that is needed for business and industry. • To provide credit bearing program opportunities for middle and high school students to develop math, science, technology, biotechnology and entrepreneurship skills acquired through hands-on applications that are required by today’s business and industry. Such learning may be accelerated by summer math and science camps supported by the Kerr-Tar Workforce Development Board and local industry. • To develop marketing strategies to educate the public about investments and jobs that follows a knowledgeable and skilled workforce having creative thinking, problem solving, team work and communication skills. • To develop a web-based marketing plan aimed at students, teachers, advisors and parents to create a greater awareness of well-paying career opportunities in the Kerr-Tar region. This approach would be supported by an annual program initiated by the region’s school systems that would include industrial needs survey, industrial plant tours, internships, and student mentoring programs. ADOPTED this the 20th day of August, 2007. Person County (Signed) Johnny Myrl Lunsford, Chairman Person County Board of Commissioners ATTEST: Faye Fuller, Clerk to the Board of Commissioners CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF APPLICATION FOR EXEMPTION UNDER G.S.105-278.7 – REAL AND PERSONAL PROPERTY USED FOR EDUCATIONAL, SCIENTIFIC, LITERARY, OR CHARITABLE PURPOSE: Tax Administrator Russell Jones explained that applications for Property Tax Exemption that are received after January 31 must be submitted to the Board of Commissioners for approval per G.S. 105-282.1(a1). Such an application was received on August 9, 2007 from VFW #2058 for land and two buildings. However, only one of the buildings is used for charitable purposes; therefore, Mr. Jones recommended tax exemption for the current year for only Tax Record #16770. A motion was made by Commissioner Yarborough, seconded by Commissioner Puryear and carried to approve the Application for Property Tax Exemption for Tax Record #16770 as requested by VFW #2058. ANNUAL SETTLEMENT FOR TAXES: Tax Administrator Russell Jones as required by G.S. 105-373(a)(3), presented an annual settlement for taxes for the current fiscal year and all previous years. August 20, 2007 13 PROPERTY TAX SETTLEMENT 2006 COLLECTION ACTIVITY FOR PERSON COUNTY AND ROXBORO LEVY COLLECTIONS RECEIVABLES PERCENT 2006 28,511,257.75 27,879,772.27 631,485.48 97.79% 2005 938,673.40 523,414.62 415,258.78 55.76% 2004 197,772.69 105,870.43 91,902.26 53.53% 2003 121,465.25 56,357.65 65,107.60 46.40% 2002 81,898.64 28,617.32 53,281.32 34.94% 2001 52,943.94 15,481.10 37,462.84 29.24% 2000 194,202.34 165,299.28 28,903.06 85.12% 1999 28,441.70 5,852.34 22,589.36 20.58% 1998 22,816.01 3,608.19 19,207.82 15.81% 1997 13,924.70 1,721.81 12,202.89 12.37% 1996 11,147.71 1,643.51 9,504.20 14.74% TOTAL 30,174,544.13 28,787,638.52 1,386,905.61 PROPERTY TAX SETTLEMENT 2006 COLLECTION ACTIVITY FOR PERSON COUNTY LEVY COLLECTIONS RECEIVABLES PERCENT 2006 24,456,130.51 23,933,591.18 522,539.33 97.86% 2005 760,943.30 447,407.43 313,535.87 58.80% 2004 166,883.17 92,555.27 74,327.90 55.46% 2003 97,881.94 47,741.00 50,140.94 48.77% 2002 63,434.59 23,294.11 40,140.48 36.72% 2001 40,867.75 12,437.98 28,429.77 30.43% 2000 110,820.94 89,433.37 21,387.57 80.70% 1999 21,654.28 4,836.03 16,818.25 22.33% 1998 17,861.37 3,356.16 14,505.21 18.79% 1997 10,453.88 1,530.28 8,923.60 14.64% 1996 8,490.99 1,293.95 7,197.04 15.24% TOTAL 25,755,422.72 24,657,476.76 1,097,945.96 August 20, 2007 14 PROPERTY TAX SETTLEMENT 2006 COLLECTION ACTIVITY FOR ROXBORO LEVY COLLECTIONS RECEIVABLES PERCENT 2006 4,055,127.24 3,946,181.09 108,946.15 97.31% 2005 177,730.10 76,007.19 101,722.91 42.77% 2004 30,889.52 13,315.16 17,574.36 43.11% 2003 23,583.31 8,616.65 14,966.66 36.54% 2002 18,464.05 5,323.21 13,140.84 28.83% 2001 12,076.19 3,043.12 9,033.07 25.20% 2000 83,381.40 75,865.91 7,515.49 90.99% 1999 6,787.42 1,016.31 5,771.11 14.97% 1998 4,954.64 252.03 4,702.61 5.09% 1997 3,470.82 191.53 3,279.29 5.52% 1996 2,656.72 349.56 2,307.16 13.16% TOTAL 4,419,121.41 4,130,161.76 288,959.65 PROPERTY TAX SETTLEMENT 2006 RECEIVABLES FOR REAL PROPERTY AND OTHER PROPERTY PERSON COUNTY AND ROXBORO RECEIVABLE REAL PROPERTY MOTOR VEHICLES OTHER PROPERTY 2006 631,485.48 356,350.67 251,852.46 275,134.81 2005 415,258.78 128,015.05 38,751.79 287,243.73 2004 91,902.26 60,376.74 24,140.64 31,525.52 2003 65,107.60 33,331.03 22,562.68 31,776.57 2002 53,281.32 22,597.27 23,299.05 30,684.05 2001 37,462.84 13,282.60 17,417.33 24,180.24 2000 28,903.06 7,775.12 16,247.50 21,127.94 1999 22,589.36 4,446.48 12,047.47 18,142.88 1998 19,207.82 3,463.53 9,830.57 15,744.29 1997 12,202.89 1,981.18 9,173.44 10,221.71 1996 9,504.20 1,495.74 7,368.72 8,008.46 TOTAL 1,386,905.61 633,115.41 432,691.65 753,790.20 August 20, 2007 15 PROPERTY TAX SETTLEMENT 2006 RECEIVABLES FOR REAL PROPERTY AND OTHER PROPERTY PERSON COUNTY RECEIVABLE REAL PROPERTY MOTOR VEHICLES OTHER PROPERTY 2006 522,539.33 307,007.79 197,417.29 18,114.25 2005 313,535.87 109,156.27 28,207.03 176,172.57 2004 74,327.90 53,791.87 15,916.45 4,619.58 2003 50,140.94 29,434.70 15,212.50 5,493.74 2002 40,140.48 19,536.02 16,155.00 4,449.46 2001 28,429.77 11,991.75 12,044.31 4,393.71 2000 21,387.57 6,851.10 10,450.30 4,086.17 1999 16,818.25 3,893.29 8,505.83 4,419.13 1998 14,505.21 2,910.34 6,968.65 4,626.22 1997 8,923.60 1,721.29 6,554.07 648.24 1996 7,197.04 1,495.74 5,061.56 639.74 TOTAL 1,097,945.96 547,790.16 322,492.99 227,662.81 PROPERTY TAX SETTLEMENT 2006 RECEIVABLES FOR REAL PROPERTY AND OTHER PROPERTY ROXBORO RECEIVABLE REAL PROPERTY MOTOR VEHICLES OTHER PROPERTY 2006 108,946.15 49,342.88 54,435.17 5,168.10 2005 101,722.91 18,858.78 10,544.76 72,319.37 2004 17,574.36 6,584.87 8,224.19 2,765.30 2003 14,966.66 3,896.33 7,350.18 3,720.15 2002 13,140.84 3,061.25 7,144.05 2,935.54 2001 9,033.07 1,290.85 5,373.02 2,369.20 2000 7,515.49 924.02 5,797.20 794.27 1999 5,771.11 553.19 3,541.64 1,676.28 1998 4,702.61 553.19 2,861.92 1,287.50 1997 3,279.29 259.89 2,619.37 400.03 1996 2,307.16 0.00 2,307.16 0.00 TOTAL 288,959.65 85,325.25 110,198.66 93,435.74 August 20, 2007 16 The Board commended the Tax Office staff for their work in collecting taxes. A motion was made by Commissioner Yarborough, seconded by Commissioner Puryear and carried to accept and approve the Annual Settlement of Taxes. ORDER OF COLLECTION TO TAX COLLECTOR: As required by G.S. 105-321, the governing board of the taxing unit must issue an order of collection to tax collectors. This grants the tax collector legal authority to collect taxes. By motion of Commissioner Yarborough, second by Commissioner Clayton and unanimous approval, Russell Jones issued the Order of Collection to the Tax Collector. County of Person To the Tax Collector of the County of Person: You are hereby authorized, empowered, and commanded to collect the taxes set forth in the tax records filed in the office of Person County Tax Office and in the tax receipts herewith delivered to you, in the amounts and from the taxpayers likewise therein set forth. Such taxes are hereby declared to be a first lien upon all real property of the respective taxpayers in the County of Person, and this order shall be a full and sufficient authority to direct require, and enable you to levy on and sell any real or personal property of such taxpayers, for and on account thereof, in accordance with law. Witness my hand and official seal, this 20th day of August, 2007. (signed) Johnny Myrl Lunsford, Chairman, Person County Board of Commissioners Faye T. Fuller, CMC, Clerk to the Board APPOINTMENTS TO JUVENILE CRIME PREVENTION COUNCIL: A motion was made by Commissioner Puryear, seconded by Commissioner Yarborough and carried to appoint Justin B. Long to a 2-year term as a Sheriff Department designee and Brian Todd Posey to a 2-year term as the Mental Health designee on the Juvenile Crime Prevention Council. BUDGET AMENDMENTS: Upon a motion by Commissioner Clayton, and a second by Commissioner Yarborough and majority vote, the Board of Commissioners of Person County does hereby amend the Budget of the General Fund(s) on this, the 20th day of August 2007, as follows: Dept./Acct No.Department Name $Amount Incr/Decr(-) EXPENDITURES General General Government 155,618 Public Buildings & Grounds 10,325 Public Safety 59,775 Transportation 20,821 Human Services 23,954 Environmental Protection 3,304 Economic & Physical Development 2,478 August 20, 2007 17 Cultural & Recreational 5,700 Transfers 8,260 Contingency (-) 290,235 Person Industries Fund Transfer from General Fund 8,260 REVENUES General Person Industries Fund Community Rehabilitation Services 8,260 Explanation: Appropriate from Contingency-Insurance to various departments and Person Industries Fund. Upon a motion by Commissioner Clayton, and a second by Commissioner Bowes and majority vote, the Board of Commissioners of Person County does hereby amend the Budget of the General Fund(s) on this, the 20th day of August 2007, as follows: Dept./Acct No.Department Name $Amount Incr/Decr(-) EXPENDITURES General Public Buildings & Grounds (-) 4,000 Public Safety 80,979 Environmental Protection 7,000 Cultural & Recreational 43,643 REVENUES General Intergovernmental Revenues 74,713 Other Revenues 46,643 Fund Balance Appropriation 6,266 Explanation: Appropriate: donations to Parks and Recreation Dept. $43,643; additional revenues from sales of vehicles removed from service to be used for GovDeals sales commissions $3,000; transfer vehicle prep expenditures from Central Services (-) $4000 to Recycling $4,000; GREAT grant funds $40,402; Task Force Grant $25,061; NCDOT grant for paving at Timberlake VFD $9,250; and Fund Balance Appropriation from Sheriff's dedicated law enforcement funds for Task Force Grant local match $6,266. CHAIRMAN’S REPORT: None August 20, 2007 18 MANAGER’S REPORT: >Wednesday, August 22nd - joint meeting with City Council at PMH >Monday, August 27th – Health Department will be formally accredited at a luncheon at the Health Department >Thursday, August 30th – Region K Manager’s meeting at Hog Heaven >FAA – lighting project at Airport underway >Person County Wellness Committee received a $1000 Ketner Award at the NCACC COMMISSIONER REPORTS/COMMENTS: Commissioner Clayton thanked everyone involved in the effort for Medicaid relief. He especially thanked Person County’s legislative delegation for their constant involvement in achieving relief for counties. CLOSED SESSION: A motion was made by Commissioner , seconded by Commissioner and carried to go into Closed Session at 10:50 a.m. pursuant to G.S. 143-318.11(a)(6)-Evaluation of County Manager. Upon returning to open session at 11:18 a.m., there was no public statement. MORATORIUM ON ASPHALT PLANTS IN THE RURAL CONSERVATION (RC) ZONING DISTRICT: Commissioner Clayton made a motion that a six-month moratorium on the permitting of additional asphalt production facilities be established to allow staff sufficient time to study the appropriateness of such facilities in the Rural Conservation (RC) zoning district. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Bowes. County Planner Paula Murphy informed the Board that the Planning Board will review the entire RC district at its next meeting. The motion was carried unanimously. August 20, 2007 19 August 20, 2007 20 RECESS: A motion was made by Commissioner Bowes, seconded by Commissioner Yarborough and carried to recess the meeting at 11:20 a.m. until Wednesday, August 22, 2007 at 5:00 p.m. for a joint meeting with the Roxboro City Council at Person Memorial Hospital. __________________________________ _________________________________ Faye T. Fuller, CMC Johnny Myrl Lunsford Clerk to the Board Chairman