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HomeMy WebLinkAbout10-05-2026 Meeting Minutes BOCOctober 5, 2026 1 PERSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS October 5, 2026 MEMBERS PRESENT OTHERS PRESENT Kyle Puryear Ralph Clark, Interim County Manager Sherry Wilborn Michele Solomon, Clerk to the Board Jason Thomas T.C. Morphis, Jr. County Attorney Antoinetta Royster Donald Long The Board of Commissioners for the County of Person, North Carolina, met in regular session on Monday, October 5, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in the Commissioners’ Boardroom 215 in the Person County Office Building located at 304 S. Morgan Street, Roxboro, NC. Chairman Puryear called the meeting to order and recognized a quorum was present. Commissioner Thomas offered an invocation, and Commissioner Long led the group in the Pledge of Allegiance. DISCUSSION/ADJUSTMENT/APPROVAL OF AGENDA: A motion was made by Commissioner Royster and carried 5-0 to approve the agenda. PROCLAMATION HONORING PERSON COUNTY’S MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY AND WORKFORCE Interim Economic Development Director Bryan Eatmon read a proclamation recognizing September 28–October 2, 2026 as North Carolina Manufacturing Week and honoring Person County’s manufacturing sector, workforce contributions, and economic impact. A motion was made by Commissioner Long and carried 5-0 to approve the Proclamation Honoring Person County’s Manufacturing Industry and Workforce. October 5, 2026 2 October 5, 2026 3 DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH PROCLAMATION Assistant County Manager/Human Services Director Brian Hart alongside representatives Annette Hampton with Safe Haven and DSS Director Adonica Hampton, read a proclamation recognizing October as Domestic Violence Awareness & Prevention Month and highlighted local service organizations, statewide statistics, survivor support needs, and the importance of community awareness. A motion was made by Commissioner Thomas and carried 5-0 to approve the Domestic Violence Awareness Month Proclamation. October 5, 2026 4 October 5, 2026 5 PUBLIC HEARING: PETITION RZ-1-26, AN APPLICATION FROM LAUREN MIDDLETON TO REZONE TAX MAP AND PARCEL 117 1 1 FROM RESIDENTIAL- R TO RURAL CONSERVATION- RC A motion was made by Commissioner Long and carried 5-0 to open the duly advertised public hearing for Petition RZ-1-26, an application from Lauren Middleton to Rezone Tax Map and Parcel 117 1 1 from Residential- R to Rural Conservation- RC Planner Jay Jennings presented the following: October 5, 2026 6 October 5, 2026 7 October 5, 2026 8 October 5, 2026 9 October 5, 2026 10 October 5, 2026 11 October 5, 2026 12 Highlights from the presentation included the following:  Parcel location, zoning context, subdivision history (Pine Lakes Subdivision), adjacent land uses, watershed designation, and traffic counts.  Land Use Plan: Area designated as Residential Neighborhood surrounded by Growth Areas.  RC zoning would allow a broad range of uses by right and special use.  Planning Board voted 5–1 to recommend denial on September 10, 2026. Vice-Chair Wilborn noted inconsistencies in zoning definitions (Table of Permitted Uses) related to office uses and home occupation allowances. Commissioner Long stated concerns of surrounding zoning, as it is primarily residential in that area. He noted environmental health and septic impacts due to proximity to the lake. Jennings noted that Environmental Health and NC DEQ would require separate approvals. He stated that rezoning alone does not guarantee approval for business operations. October 5, 2026 13 Applicant Lauren Middleton presented the following: October 5, 2026 14 October 5, 2026 15 October 5, 2026 16 October 5, 2026 17 October 5, 2026 18 Highlights from the presentation included the following:  No expansion to existing structure; minimal impact.  Appointment-based operations to limit traffic.  Natural buffers (wooded parcels and lake).  Reuse of existing building; RC chosen instead of B1.  Business model supporting local entrepreneurship.  Septic system considerations and future environmental permitting requirements. October 5, 2026 19 The following individuals appeared before the Board to speak in favor of Petition RZ-1-26, an application from Lauren Middleton to Rezone Tax Map and Parcel 117 1 1 from Residential- R to Rural Conservation- RC: Michelle Lickliter of 236 Oakcrest Drive, Wake Forest stated that she is a realtor and emphasized small-business opportunity and community benefits. Ginger Ezell of 1582 Tom Oakley Road, Timberlake stated that she supports responsible growth, opportunities for young entrepreneurs, and keeping services local. Kelly Patterson of 889 Burlington Road, Roxboro advised that she is the current resident at stated property and noted traffic from personal household exceeds expected business traffic; believes business can operate responsibly without disturbing neighbors. The following individuals appeared before the Board to speak in opposition of Petition RZ-1-26, an application from Lauren Middleton to Rezone Tax Map and Parcel 117 1 1 from Residential- R to Rural Conservation- RC: Larry King of 283 Lake Shore Drive, Roxboro stated that he is a Pine Lakes resident. He noted concerns about spot zoning, incompatible land use, potential commercial uses allowed under RC, traffic safety backing into Hwy 49, and septic load. Gary Shaver of 309 Lake Shore Drive, Roxboro stated that he is a Pine Lakes resident. He noted visibility from his home, noise/traffic concerns, septic failure risk into the lake, chemical use in salons, and that similar businesses exist elsewhere. County Attorney T.C. Morphis, Jr. explained NC’s legal test for spot zoning:  Small tract  Owned by a single owner  Surrounded by a uniformly zoned area  Rezoning would grant privileges not shared by neighbors He stated that uncertainty exists because surrounding zoning is mixed at a broader scale, and noted that residential is immediately around the site. He advised the Board to focus on reasonableness and consistency with comprehensive plan, which are required findings. October 5, 2026 20 Vice-Chair Wilborn specifically raised the issue of restrictive covenants governing the Pine Lakes subdivision. She noted that subdivision restrictive covenants often address allowable uses and can prevent incompatible activities without requiring county zoning intervention. She asked whether the Pine Lakes restrictive covenants contained any provisions relevant to commercial or non-residential use, particularly since the original subdivision plat carved out certain lots — including the applicant’s — with different considerations. She further asked whether any HOA enforcement mechanism existed, and whether residents opposing the rezoning had reviewed their own restrictive covenants to determine if the matter could be addressed internally rather than through a county zoning change. Residents present did not identify any restrictive covenant language expressly permitting or prohibiting the proposed use. No representative of the subdivision’s governing body (if any) was present to clarify enforcement authority. Mr. Jennings acknowledged that restrictive covenants are private agreements, not enforced by the county, and can supersede zoning permissions if more restrictive. He noted the county does not interpret or enforce covenants but recognizes them as a valid private-sector land-use control mechanism. The Board acknowledged that even if zoning allowed a use, the restrictive covenants could still prohibit it, leaving enforcement up to the homeowners. A motion was made by Vice-Chair Wilborn and carried 5-0 to close the duly advertised public hearing for Petition RZ-1-26, an application from Lauren Middleton to Rezone Tax Map and Parcel 117 1 1 from Residential- R to Rural Conservation- RC. CONSIDERATION TO GRANT OR DENY PETITION RZ-1-26, AN APPLICATION FROM LAUREN MIDDLETON TO REZONE TAX MAP AND PARCEL 117 1 1 FROM RESIDENTIAL- R TO RURAL CONSERVATION- RC Chairman Puryear advised the applicant that she had an admirable presentation. He stated concerns for future uses if the property is rezoned. Vice-Chair Wilborn stated that she values entrepreneurship; however, she is concerned about long-term implications after ownership changes. She advised that she would have much rather seen the request be presented as B-1 instead of RC. October 5, 2026 21 Commissioner Royster stated that she is also concerned about long-term implications and future uses if this property is rezoned. She stated that she sees the potential and benefits; however, she is concerned that if the property owner decides to expand and sell the property, based on what has been presented by Planning, there are lots of uses allowed by right if the property is rezoned to RC. Commissioner Long indicated that he is pro-business, pro-zoning; however, he has concerns related to the septic system. He stated that the property is a residential home and was not intended or designed to be used as a commercial property, such as a hair salon. Commissioner Thomas stated that he sees both sides. He stated that the septic system was not built for this. He cited traffic concerns. A motion was made by Commissioner Long and carried 4-1 to deny the request to rezone RZ-1-26 from R-Residential to RC- Rural Conservation and find it inconsistent with the adopted Person County-City of Roxboro Joint Comprehensive Land Use Plan, specifically, Guiding Principle 1.1: Implement Policies that direct development to growth areas and 2.1: Designate sites to support economic growth. Vice-Chair Wilborn voted against the motion to deny. INFORMAL COMMENTS: The following individual appeared before the Board to speak during informal comment period: Coleman McCullock of 205 Allgood Street, Roxboro requested state DOT install full traffic signals and pedestrian crosswalk systems at the intersections of Foushee Street and Depot Street near Roxboro Community School to ensure student safety. He stated that the request would be at no cost to the county or city. He encouraged donations to the Person County Cancer Crusaders, sharing personal testimony related to his spouse. October 5, 2026 22 DISCUSSION/ADJUSTMENT/APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA: A motion was made by Vice-Chair Wilborn and carried 5-0 to approve the Consent Agenda with the following items: A. September 21, 2026, Minutes B. Budget Amendment #8 C. Resolution Appointing Review Officers D. ABC Board Travel Policy E. Resolution Amending the 2026 Schedule of Regular Meetings for the Person County Board of Commissioners NEW BUSINESS: MEDICAID FUNDING TO SUPPORT CONTINUED MEDICAID EXPANSION ELIGIBILITY CHANGES AND H.R.1-REQUEST FOR FOUR MEDICAID POSITIONS DSS Director Adonica Hampton presented the following: October 5, 2026 23 October 5, 2026 24 October 5, 2026 25 Summary of Presentation:  Person County received $191,365 in new Medicaid administrative funding for FY 2026–27 (ongoing through FY 2035–36).  Funding supports increased eligibility workload due to state and federal program changes, including 6-month recertifications and expanded work/community engagement requirements.  DSS requested four new Medicaid eligibility positions, fully funded by Medicaid administrative dollars.  No immediate county financial impact. Commissioner Long asked what challenges DSS anticipated as the Medicaid program undergoes major eligibility changes. Hampton stated the primary challenge will be workload volume, with approximately 40% of the county’s Medicaid caseload shifting to 6-month recertifications, effectively doubling the recertification workload. Long acknowledged the magnitude of the administrative burden and expressed appreciation for staff preparing early for anticipated increases. October 5, 2026 26 Long sought clarification on whether the addition of four positions would create any new financial obligation for the county. Hampton confirmed that no immediate county funds are required, as the positions would be fully supported by new Medicaid administrative allocation dollars through FY 2035–36. Long reiterated the importance of explaining this clearly to the public, emphasizing that the county will not be absorbing additional costs as a result of this staffing expansion. Vice-Chair Wilborn focused on the recurring nature and long‑term stability of the federal/state funding. She expressed concern that while the state indicates that funding is ongoing, federal budget changes could impact future allocations, leaving the county responsible for permanent positions. She asked DSS to provide annual updates on caseload, staffing utilization, and administrative funding levels so the Board remains aware of long‑term fiscal exposure. Commissioner Royster asked which Medicaid units the four new positions would serve and whether caseload increases were expected primarily in Adult Medicaid or Family & Children’s Medicaid. Hampton stated the increased workload impacts both units, and internal staffing allocation would be adjusted as needed. Royster reiterated the importance of ensuring that the county can meet processing deadlines for families and medically fragile populations. Chairman Puryear thanked DSS staff for preparing ahead of anticipated state-level changes. He advised the Board to remain conscious that federal and state funding structures can change dramatically over time and that the county may need to respond operationally if long‑term funding commitments shift. He echoed Vice- Chair Wilborn’s point that annual reporting will help future Boards monitor the fiscal and operational trajectory of the program. A motion was made by Vice-Chair Wilborn and carried 5-0 to approve the four new Medicaid positions, as presented, with no immediate county financial impact. October 5, 2026 27 CHAIRMAN’S REPORT Chairman Puryear formally welcomed Interim County Manager Ralph Clark, noting that Mr. Clark is already familiar with Person County operations from his prior service and brings experience and continuity during the current leadership transition. He stated that department heads expressed appreciation during their recent meeting with Mr. Clark and that renewed coordination is underway across departments. He reflected on his temporary service fulfilling the responsibilities of County Manager during the transitional period. He thanked staff, department heads, and the Board for their cooperation, emphasizing that the experience offered valuable insights into the daily operational demands and strategic decision-making required of the County Manager’s office. He noted it was “a unique and eye-opening experience” to engage directly with personnel matters and internal processes typically managed administratively. He thanked staff for their support and professionalism and the Board for its trust during the transition. Chairman Puryear reported: • Attendance at the DSS Employee Luncheon, expressing appreciation for DSS leadership’s efforts to recognize staff contributions and morale. • Participation in the tour and briefing with U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright at the Duke Energy Hyco Plant, alongside other commissioners and federal representatives. He noted the importance of such engagements as Person County remains central to regional energy production. MANAGER’S REPORT Interim County Manager Ralph Clark expressed gratitude to the Board for the opportunity to serve again and reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining operational stability and supporting staff during the County Manager recruitment process. He addressed the public comment from Mr. McCullock regarding the installation of traffic signals and crosswalks at Foushee Street and Depot Street near Roxboro Community School. He clarified that the roads in question are state-maintained, and that the matter may fall under the City of Roxboro’s jurisdiction regarding pedestrian infrastructure. He committed to contacting both DOT and the City to determine what evaluations are already in progress and whether the County should formally support the request. October 5, 2026 28 Clark introduced HR Director Sonya Carver to present the recruitment timeline provided by Developmental Associates. He emphasized the importance of adhering to the proposed schedule to avoid delays that could risk losing qualified candidates during the process. He noted his role will be advisory only, stating that selecting a County Manager is akin to “a long-term partnership,” and he would not influence the Board’s personal or managerial fit considerations. He reaffirmed his focus on maintaining continuity, supporting department heads, and ensuring daily county operations remain efficient and responsive during the transition. COMMISSIONER REPORTS Vice-Chair Wilborn Vice-Chair Wilborn reported the following: Economic Development She reported that the Person County Economic Development Commission (EDC) has finalized plans for the 2026 Leadership Summit at the Kirby Cultural Arts Complex and noted that surveys were distributed to elected officials to guide discussion topics. She also noted ongoing work with a third-party firm to complete industrial site selection efforts by the end of October. Employment and Workforce She highlighted Person County’s historic low unemployment rate, currently at 3.3%, below the statewide 3.5%, and that manufacturers continue hiring. She emphasized that strengthening workforce pipelines remains central to supporting local industry. Regional and State Committees She participated in the NCACC Agriculture, Natural, and Economic Resources Steering Committee meeting, where legislative priorities were reviewed and forwarded for consideration. October 5, 2026 29 Data Center Visits and Energy Sector Updates Wilborn described the Board’s visit to the Microsoft Data Center campus in Clarksville, VA, including:  Observations of construction and operational facilities  Noise and environmental impact assessments  Testimony from Mecklenburg County leaders about revenue benefits, including a $10M annual fund for schools and reduced property tax rates She linked this to ongoing regional conversations about potential data center development and its implications for Person County’s tax base. Manufacturing History and Economic Context She provided a historical overview of manufacturing’s role in Person County’s growth since the 1920s, noting it remains foundational to the county’s economic identity. She reiterated that last year alone, the county saw an $815,000 increase in revenue from state-appraised utilities, which should not be mischaracterized as a budget deficit issue. City of Roxboro UDO Open House She encouraged all stakeholders to attend the City’s open house on UDO amendments, emphasizing the interconnectedness of county and city economic development. Commissioner Thomas Commissioner Thomas reported the following:  Attendance at the Roxboro Motorsports ribbon-cutting ceremony, he praised the facility’s planned expansions and potential for tourism and local economic impact.  Attendance at the Personality Festival, noting strong turnout despite rainy conditions and thanking the many volunteers who staffed the event. October 5, 2026 30 Commissioner Royster Commissioner Royster reported the following: She reaffirmed October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, praising Safe Haven and DSS staff for their work supporting survivors. She encouraged residents to increase awareness and seek training on recognizing signs of abuse. Mental Health Awareness She noted October also includes several mental health awareness recognitions, drawing attention to:  Increasing community stressors  Available local behavioral health resources (Freedom House, Cross-Lifespan, Person Family Medical, etc.) Community Engagement Events She and Commissioner Long attended the mortgage-burning celebration at Lattisville Grove Missionary Baptist Church, which serves both Orange and Person counties. She appreciated the congregation’s emphasis on youth, elder engagement, and future outreach opportunities now that their major debt is retired. She stated that she, Assistant County Manager Brian Hart, and Clerk to the Board Michele Solomon, along with city officials attended the Kerr-Tar Banquet in Henderson on September 24. Health Department Meeting She reported on the September 28 Health Board meeting, including a public hearing regarding proposed regulations on non-potable well permitting.  The Board tabled the decision to allow review of input from farmers and Rep. Jeffers.  Further information will be distributed before any vote. October 5, 2026 31 Commissioner Long Commissioner Long reported the following: He welcomed Interim Manager Ralph Clark back to Person County. Fire Services He attended the County Fire Chiefs meeting, reporting:  Ongoing staffing requests  A critical need to replace 80 air-pack units across departments to standardize equipment for mutual aid  Estimated cost: $720,000- He noted this need will require future Board discussion. Data Center and Energy Meetings He echoed Vice Chair Wilborn’s remarks about the Microsoft Data Center tour, noting:  Their willingness to operate without incentives  Standard utility rate payments  Minimal noise footprint He also reported encouragement from the meeting with the Secretary of Energy Chris Wright and Congressman Knott, specifically around continued federal support for coal plants, including several located in Person County. Community Events He praised the Chamber for executing an enjoyable Personality Festival despite weather challenges and noted attending a community meeting regarding energy policy at Mayo Lake. He also previewed important upcoming meetings related to Duke Energy and the Army Corps of Engineers. He stated that he and Commissioner Royster attended the mortgage burning ceremony at Lattisville Grove Missionary Baptist Church. October 5, 2026 32 A motion was made by Vice-Chair Wilborn and carried 5-0 to enter into Closed Session at 7:34 p.m. Chairman Puryear called the closed session to order at 7:38 p.m. CLOSED SESSION #1 A motion to enter into Closed Session #1 per General Statute 143-318.11(a)(3) for the purpose to consult with the county attorney in order to preserve the attorney-client privilege and General Statute 143-318.11(a)(6) for the purpose to discuss personnel with the following individuals permitted to attend: Interim County Manager Ralph Clark, Clerk to the Board Michele Solomon, County Attorney T.C. Morphis, Jr., and Human Resources Director Sonya Carver. A motion was made by Commissioner Thomas and carried 5-0 to return to open session at 7:45 p.m. ADJOURNMENT A motion was made by Commissioner Royster and carried 5-0 to adjourn the meeting at 7:46 p.m. ____________________________ ______________________________ Michele Solomon Kyle Puryear Clerk to the Board Chairman