) STOKES COUNTY GOVERNMENT
COUNTY OF STOKES ) DANBURY, NORTH CAROLINA
) JULY 25, 2005
The Board of Commissioners of the County of Stokes, State of North
Carolina, met for regular session in the Commissioners’ Chambers of the Ronald
Wilson Reagan Memorial Building (Administrative Building) located in Danbury,
North Carolina on Monday, July 25, 2005 at 7:00 pm with the following members
present:
Chairman John Turpin
Vice-Chairman
Leon Inman
Commissioner
Sandy McHugh
Commissioner
Joe Turpin
Commissioner
Jimmy Walker
County
Personnel in Attendance:
County
Manager Richard Morris
County
Attorney Jonathan Jordan
Clerk
to the Board Darlene Bullins
Finance
Director Julia Edwards
Tax
Administrator Wren Carmichael
Fire
Marshal Brad Cheek
GIS/Mapping
Administrator Jake Oakley
Health
Director Don Moore
Public
Works Director Jay Kinney
Support
Services Supervisor Danny Stovall
Chairman John Turpin called the meeting to order.
Vice Chairman Inman delivered the invocation.
Chairman John Turpin opened the meeting by inviting the citizens in
attendance to join the Board with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Chairman John Turpin entertained a motion to approve or amend the
minutes of July 11, 2005.
Vice Chairman Inman moved to approve the minutes of July 11, 2005.
Commissioner Joe Turpin seconded and the motion carried unanimously.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
There
were no public comments.
CLOSED SESSION
Commissioner
Walker moved to enter into closed session.
Vice
Chairman Inman seconded and the motion carried unanimously.
Chairman
John Turpin entertained a motion to enter closed session to consider the
initial employment or appointment of an individual to any office or position,
other than a vacancy in the Board of County Commissioners or any other public
body, or to consider the qualifications, competence, performance, character,
and fitness of any public officer or
employee,
other than a member of the Board of Commissioners or of some other public body
pursuant to G.S. 143-318.11(6).
Commissioner
Joe Turpin moved to enter closed session to consider the initial employment or
appointment of an individual to any office or position, other than a vacancy in
the Board of County Commissioners or any other public body, or to consider the
qualifications, competence, performance, character, and fitness of any public
officer or employee, other than a member of the Board of Commissioners or of
some other public body pursuant to G.S. 143-318.11(6).
Vice
Chairman Inman seconded and the motion carried unanimously.
The
Board re-entered into the open session of the July 25th meeting.
GENERAL GOVERNMENT – TAX ADMINISTRATION –APPOINTMENT OF
DEPUTY TAX COLLECTORS
Tax
Administrator Wren Carmichael requested the Board appoint the following as
Deputy Tax Collectors for a two-year term pursuant to NC General Statute
105-349(f):
q
Lisa R. Beasley
q
Jackie Dodson
Tax
Administrator Carmichael explained the necessity for these individuals to be
appointed as Deputy Tax Collectors.
Chairman
John Turpin entertained a motion to appoint the following as Deputy Tax
Collectors for a two-year term:
q
Lisa R. Beasley
q
Jackie Dodson
Commissioner
Joe Turpin moved to appoint the following as Deputy Tax Collectors for a
two-year term:
q
Lisa R. Beasley
q
Jackie Dodson
Vice
Chairman Inman seconded and the motion carried unanimously.
GENERAL GOVERNMENT – TAX ADMINISTRATION –ORDER OF THE BOARD
OF COMMISSIONERS IN ACCORDANCE WITH G.S. 105-321(b) FOR THE COLLECTION OF
FISCAL YEAR 2005/06 PROPERTY TAXES
Tax
Administrator Wren Carmichael presented the following Order of the Board of
Commissioners in Accordance with G.S. 105-321(b) for the Collection of Fiscal
Year 2005/06 Property Taxes for Board
action:
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
) ORDER OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
) IN
ACCORDANCE WITH G.S.105-321(b) FOR THE
COUNTY OF STOKES ) COLLECTION OF FY 2005-2006 PROPERTY TAXES
TO
: THE STOKES COUNTY TAX
ADMINISTRATOR
You are hereby authorized, empowered, and commanded to collect the
taxes set forth in the 2005 tax records filed in the Office of the Stokes
County Tax Administration, and in the tax bills herewith delivered to you, in
the amounts and from the taxpayers likewise set forth. You are further authorized, empowered, and
commanded to collect the 2005 taxes charged and assessed as provided by law for
adjustments, changes, and additions to the tax records and tax bills delivered
to you which are made in accordance with law.
Such taxes are hereby declared to be a first lien on real property of
the respective taxpayers in Stokes County, King Fire District, Rural Hall Fire
District, Walnut Cove Fire District, Stokes County Service District, the Town
of Walnut Cove, and the Town of Danbury.
Taxes collected for the City of King are to be for motor vehicles only,
as provided by law. This order shall be
full and sufficient authority to direct, require, and enable you to garnish
wages, to attach rents, cash receipts, checking accounts, and savings accounts;
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 25th day of July
2005.
____________________________________
John
Turpin, Chairman
Stokes
County Board of Commissioners
ATTESTED:
_________________________________
Darlene Bullins
Clerk to the Stokes County Board of Commissioners
Chairman
John Turpin entertained a motion to approve the Order of the Board of
Commissioners in Accordance with G.S. 105-321(b) for the Collection of Fiscal
Year 2005/06 Property Taxes.
Commissioner
Joe Turpin moved to approve the Order of the Board of Commissioners in
Accordance with G.S. 105-321(b) for the Collection of Fiscal Year 2005/06 Property Taxes.
Commissioner
McHugh seconded and the motion carried unanimously.
GENERAL GOVERNMENT –
TAX ADMINISTRATION –RESOLUTION FOR THE ANNUAL SETTLEMENT OF PROPERTY TAXES
CHARGED TO THE TAX COLLECTOR
Tax
Administrator Wren Carmichael presented the following Resolution for the Annual
Settlement of Property Taxes Charged to the Tax Collector for Board action:
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
)
) RESOLUTION
COUNTY OF STOKES
)
WHEREAS, Section 105-373 of
the North Carolina General Statutes provides for an
annual settlement of the property taxes charged to the Tax Collector;
and
WHEREAS, that, in
keeping with this requirement, the attached settlement summary was provided to
the Stokes County Board of Commissioners by the Stokes County Tax
Administrator, Wren Carmichael;
NOW, THEREFORE, be
it resolved that the Stokes County Board of Commissioners:
(1)
Orders the insolvent amount for 2004 be entered into the minutes as the
accepted insolvent amount, and further, that said insolvent amount be credited
to the Stokes County Tax Administrator in his settlement. And;
(2)
Orders the tax liens for 2004 property taxes for the purpose of
collection to be recharged to the Stokes County Tax Administrator. And further;
(3)
Orders that the settlement for delinquent (prior years taxes) be
entered into the minutes, and that the uncollected balance of said taxes be
recharged to the Stokes County Tax Administrator for the purpose of collection.
And finally;
(4)
Orders that the 2004 property tax settlement by the Stokes County Tax
Administrator be accepted in accordance with Section 105-373(e) of the North
Carolina General Statutes.
Adopted this the 25th day of July 2005
_________________________________
John
Turpin, Chairman
Stokes
County Board of Commissioners
ATTESTED:
___________________________________
Darlene Bullins
Clerk to the Stokes County Board of
Commissioners
Chairman
John Turpin entertained a motion to approve the Resolution for the Annual
Settlement of Property Taxes Charged to the Tax Collector.
Commissioner
McHugh moved to approve the Resolution for the Annual Settlement of Property
Taxes Charged to the Tax Collector.
Commissioner
Joe Turpin seconded and the motion carried unanimously.
GENERAL GOVERNMENT –
TAX ADMINISTRATION –ORDER OF THE COMPLIANCE WITH G.S. 105-352(b)(1) AND G.S.
105-352(b)(2) FOR THE SETTLEMENT OF FISCAL YEAR 2004-2005 PROPERTY TAXES
Tax
Administrator Wren Carmichael presented the following Order of the Compliance
with G.S. 105-352(b)(1) and G.S. 105-352(b)(2) for the Settlement of Fiscal
Year 2004-2005 Property Taxes for Board
action:
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
) ORDER OF THE COMPLIANCE WITH
G.S.105-352(b)(1)
)
AND G.S. 105-352(b)(2) FOR THE SETTLEMENT OF
COUNTY OF STOKES
) FISCAL YEAR 2004-2005
PROPERTY TAXES
TO
: THE STOKES COUNTY TAX
ADMINISTRATOR
By the powers invested in me as the Chief Accounting Officer of Stokes
County, North
Carolina, this order of compliance pursuant to North Carolina General
Statutes 105-352(b)(1) and 105-352(b)(2) is issued to you. I further acknowledge that the receipts for
prepayments of taxes for the fiscal year 2005-2006 have been delivered to me,
and that such prepayments have been deposited to the credit of Stokes County.
Witness my hand and official seal this 25th day of July
2005.
_______________________________________
Julia
Edwards, Finance Officer & Chief
Accounting
Officer, Stokes County North Carolina
SWORN TO AND SUBSCRIBED BEFORE ME THIS
________ DAY OF _________________, 2005
______________________________________
Notary Public
My Commission Expires __________________
Chairman
John Turpin entertained a motion to approve the Order of the Compliance with
G.S. 105-352(b)(1) and G.S. 105-352(b)(2) for the Settlement of Fiscal
Year 2004-2005 Property Taxes.
Commissioner
McHugh moved to approve of the Compliance with G.S. 105-352(b)(1) and G.S.
105-352(b)(2) for the Settlement of Fiscal Year 2004-2005 Property Taxes.
Chairman
John Turpin seconded and the motion carried unanimously.
Town of Danbury
Chairman
John Turpin entertained a motion to approve the following 2004-2005 Property
Tax Collections Settlement Pursuant to N.C.G.S. 105-373 for the Town of
Danbury:
Current =
$18,899.95
Delinquent =
$1,157.54
Commissioner
McHugh moved to approve submitted the 2004-2005 Property Tax Collections
Settlement Pursuant to N.C.G.S. 105-373 for the Town of Danbury.
Commissioner
Joe Turpin seconded and the motion carried unanimously.
Town of Walnut Cove
Chairman
John Turpin entertained a motion to approve the following 2004-2005 Property
Tax Collections Settlement Pursuant to N.C.G.S. 105-373 for the Town of Walnut
Cove:
Current =
$371,630.85
Delinquent =
$35,523.87
Commissioner
Joe Turpin moved to approve the submitted 2004-2005 Property Tax Collections
Settlement Pursuant to N.C.G.S. 105-373 for the Town of Walnut Cove.
Commissioner
McHugh seconded and the motion carried unanimously.
County of Stokes
Chairman
John Turpin entertained a motion to approve the following 2004-2005 Property
Tax Collections Settlement Pursuant to N.C.G.S. 105-373 for the County of
Stokes:
Current =
$18,693,483.95
Delinquent =
$1,547,040.48
Commissioner
McHugh moved to approve the submitted 2004-2005 Property Tax Collections
Settlement Pursuant to N.C.G.S. 105-373 for the County of Stokes.
Chairman
John Turpin seconded the motion.
The
Board discussed the County’s delinquent tax collections.
The
motion carried unanimously.
GENERAL GOVERNMENT – FINANCE – INVESTMENT OPTIONS-FINISTAR
Finance
Director Julia Edwards presented Mr. C. B. “Butch” Watson, Finistar
Representative who presented an informative presentation concerning
Finistar.
Mr. Watson noted the following:
·
Finistar has created a patent
pending business method for providing
NC Local Government with a FDIC insured cash management
vehicle,
which includes a fixed rate or return over a given period of
time, and
provides NC community banks a stable source of funds at competitive
interest rates to augment core deposits, thereby stimulating
local and
state economies.
·
Advantages to Local Government:
o
Deposits are FDIC insured
o
No market risk-par value (dollar
in/dollar out)
o
Fixed rate for one month
o
Interest is accrued daily and
payable monthly
o
Complete daily liquidity
o
Yields are favorable compared to
other short term investments
o
Streamlines short term investments
o
Automated reporting tools
o
Puts dollars to work in local
communities
o
Finistar has been reviewed by the NC
Local Government
Commission
Staff and found to be in compliance with the
requirements
of the Local Government Budget and Fiscal
Control
Act (NCGS 159)
·
Finistar’s Technology
o
Finance Officers will be able to
monitor accounts electronically in real time
o
Finistar will direct the flow of
funds to participating community banks as needed
o
Finistar will monitor accounts to
assure that all deposits are FDIC insured
Finance
Director Edwards also noted the County is facing very challenging budget years
searching for new ways to fund revenue shortfalls.
State
Treasurer Richard Moore has concluded that the investment product offered by
Finistar meets all the requirements of the Local Government and Fiscal Control
Act and local governments may use these financial services.
Finance
Director Edwards concluded that General Statutes only allows local governments
to invest in CD’s, bank acceptances, commercial paper, treasury bills, NC
Capital Management and now Finistar.
Finance
Director Edwards requested the Board approve the Resolution between the County
of Stokes, Finistar Inc, and Gateway Bank & Trust Company authorizing the
County to invest with Finistar.
The
Board discussed the pros and cons of investing County Funds with Finistar.
Chairman
John Turpin requested a copy of the proposed contract that the County would be
executing.
Chairman John Turpin (with full consent of
the Board) requested that the Resolution be placed on the August 8th
agenda for further consideration.
GENERAL GOVERNMENT – FIRE MARSHAL – PROPOSED FIRE &
RESCUE PROTECTION/MUTUAL AID AGREEMENTS
Fire
Marshal Brad Cheek presented the proposed Fire and Rescue Protection and Mutual
Aid Agreements which expired June 30, 2005.
The
two-year agreements have been reviewed and approved by County Attorney Jonathan
Jordan and executed by each
department.
Fire
Marshal Cheek presented the follow agreements for approval:
q
Pinnacle Volunteer Fire Department
& Rescue Squad
q
Lawsonville Volunteer Fire
Department & Rescue Squad
q
Francisco Vol. Fire Department &
Rescue Squad
q
Walnut Cove Volunteer Fire
Department & Rescue Squad
q
Northeast Stokes Volunteer Fire
Department & Rescue Squad
q
Stokes Rockingham Volunteer Fire
Department & Rescue Squad
q
Sauratown Volunteer Fire Department
& Rescue Squad
q
Danbury Volunteer Fire Department
& Rescue Squad
q
South Stokes Volunteer Fire
Department & Rescue Squad
q
Double Creek Volunteer Fire
Department & Rescue Squad
q
City of King Fire Department
q
Westfield Volunteer Fire Department
& Rescue Squad
q
Pilot Knob Volunteer Fire Department
q
Pilot Mountain Rescue Squad and EMS
Fire
Marshal Cheek explained the differences between the submitted agreements.
The
Board discussed the following:
§
Service District Fire Department
Agreements
§
City of King Fire Department
Agreement
§
Westfield Vol. Fire Department
§
Pilot Knob Vol. Fire Department
Agreement
§
Pilot Mountain Rescue Squad/EMS
§
Rural Hall Fire Department Agreement
§
Inaccessibility of the Fire
Departments for use by citizens
The
Board discussed the use of the Fire Departments by county citizens for events
such as receptions, showers, birthday parties, etc along with placing a
stipulation into the Agreement requiring Fire Departments to allow citizens to
use their building.
Commissioner
Walker suggested that the Board adopt a Resolution (based on the inquires and
concerns received) suggesting the availability of the Fire Departments by
Stokes County citizens be considered in whatever way is appropriate.
Fire
Marshal Cheek noted 90% to 95% currently allow the use of the fire department
buildings by Stokes County citizens.
Chairman
John Turpin moved to approve the motion to approve the following agreements
with the stipulation that these facilities be open to the public as long as it
does not interfere with training or providing public safety:
q
Pinnacle Volunteer Fire Department
& Rescue Squad
q
Lawsonville Volunteer Fire
Department & Rescue Squad
q
Francisco Vol. Fire Department &
Rescue Squad
q
Walnut Cove Volunteer Fire
Department & Rescue Squad
q
Northeast Stokes Volunteer Fire
Department & Rescue Squad
q
Stokes Rockingham Volunteer Fire
Department & Rescue Squad
q
Sauratown Volunteer Fire Department
& Rescue Squad
q
Danbury Volunteer Fire Department
& Rescue Squad
q
South Stokes Volunteer Fire
Department & Rescue Squad
q
Double Creek Volunteer Fire
Department & Rescue Squad
Vice
Chairman Inman seconded the motion.
The
Board continued the discussion concerning the facilities being opened for
public use, safety issues, scheduling of the facility, etc. The Board discussed the pros and cons of
requiring the Fire Departments to open their doors to the public.
County
Attorney Jonathan Jordan noted item #8 of the contract which states the
following:
·
This agreement constitutes the
entire understanding of the parties and contains all the terms agreed upon with
reference to the subject matter hereto.
No modification or revision of this agreement shall be
effective unless evidenced by a written document signed by
both parties to this agreement.
Chairman
John Turpin withdrew his motion with Vice Chairman Inman withdrawing his second
to the motion.
The
Board continued discussion concerning the use of the facilities by County
citizens.
Chairman
John Turpin entertained a motion to approve the following Fire Department
Agreements:
q
Pinnacle Volunteer Fire Department
& Rescue Squad
q
Lawsonville Volunteer Fire
Department & Rescue Squad
q
Francisco Vol. Fire Department &
Rescue Squad
q
Walnut Cove Volunteer Fire
Department & Rescue Squad
q
Northeast Stokes Volunteer Fire
Department & Rescue Squad
q
Stokes Rockingham Volunteer Fire
Department & Rescue Squad
q
Sauratown Volunteer Fire Department
& Rescue Squad
q
Danbury Volunteer Fire Department
& Rescue Squad
q
South Stokes Volunteer Fire
Department & Rescue Squad
q
Double Creek Volunteer Fire
Department & Rescue Squad
Commissioner
Joe Turpin moved to approve the following fire department agreements:
q
Pinnacle Volunteer Fire Department
& Rescue Squad
q
Lawsonville Volunteer Fire
Department & Rescue Squad
q
Francisco Vol. Fire Department &
Rescue Squad
q
Walnut Cove Volunteer Fire
Department & Rescue Squad
q
Northeast Stokes Volunteer Fire
Department & Rescue Squad
q
Stokes Rockingham Volunteer Fire
Department & Rescue Squad
q
Sauratown Volunteer Fire Department
& Rescue Squad
q
Danbury Volunteer Fire Department
& Rescue Squad
q
South Stokes Volunteer Fire
Department & Rescue Squad
q
Double Creek Volunteer Fire
Department & Rescue Squad
Commissioner
McHugh seconded and the motion carried (4-1) with Vice Chairman Inman voting
against the motion.
Chairman
John Turpin entertained a motion to approve the City of King Fire Department
Agreement.
Commissioner
McHugh moved to approve the City of King Fire Department Agreement.
Chairman
John Turpin seconded and the motion carried (4-1) with Vice Chairman Inman
voting against the motion.
Chairman
John Turpin entertained a motion to approve the Westfield Vol. Fire Department
Agreement.
Commissioner
McHugh moved to approve the Westfield Vol. Fire Department Agreement.
Chairman
John Turpin seconded and the motion carried unanimously.
Chairman
John Turpin entertained a motion to approve the Pilot Knob Vol. Fire Department
Agreement.
Commissioner
McHugh moved to approve the Pilot Knob Vol. Fire Department Agreement.
Commissioner
Joe Turpin seconded and the motion carried unanimously.
Chairman
John Turpin entertained a motion to approve the Pilot Mountain Rescue Squad and
EMS Agreement.
Commissioner
McHugh moved to approve the Pilot Mountain Rescue and EMS Agreement.
Chairman
John Turpin seconded and the motion carried unanimously.
Commissioner
Walker moved to adopt a Resolution commending the Fire Departments who are
already allowing the public to use the facility in a way that does not
interfere with their normal operations (training or otherwise) and encourage
the other Departments who are not currently allowing the public to use the
facility to consider to follow this practice.
Vice
Chairman Inman seconded the motion.
Commissioner
McHugh moved to amend the motion to include a statement in the Resolution that
request the Fire Departments to respond to the County indicating whether they
are or are not participating, how they are participating, if they are willing
or not willing to participate, and if not, why.
Commissioner
Joe Turpin seconded and the amendment carried unanimously.
The
amended motion to adopt a Resolution commending the Fire Departments who re
already allowing the public to use the facility in a way that does not
interfere with their normal operations (training or otherwise) and encourages
the other Departments who are not currently allowing the public to use the
facility to consider following this practice and also requesting the Fire
Departments to respond to the County indicating whether they are or are not
participating, how they are participating, if they are willing or not willing to
participate, and if not, why carried unanimously.
(A
copy of the executed agreements will be retained by the Fire Marshal, Clerk to
the Board and County Attorney)
GENERAL GOVERNMENT – GIS/MAPPING – APPROVAL OF MSAG ROADS TO
REFLECT THE NEW EMERGENCY RESPONSE DISTRICT BOUNDARIES
GIS
Administrator Jake Oakley presented the new response district (ESZ) Emergency
Service Zones that were adopted by the Board on February 28, 2005 and sent to
the local Telco provider (Sprint) for updates.
A copy of Sprint’s official copy of the entire Stokes County (MSAG)
Master Street Address Guide was verified by the Mapping Department and the
necessary changes made to the private and state roads reflecting the new ESZ
boundaries with the corrections also being returned to Sprint’s E911 Control
Center for updates.
With
a second verification performed by the Mapping Department to ensure all
corrections were successfully completed, Administrator Oakley requested the
Board’s approval of the Board on the Master Street Addressing Guide (MSAG)
which all roads reflect the new ESZ District Boundaries and approval for Sprint
to go live using the corrected database.
Administrator Oakley presented an example of the Stokes County MSAG and
ESZ Boundaries for review.
The
Board discussed the impact of the future new EMS Stations or Fire Department
substations in correlation to these new ESZ District Boundaries.
Chairman
John Turpin entertained a motion to approve the Master Street Addressing Guide
(MSAG) to reflect the new EDZ District Boundaries.
Commissioner
Joe Turpin moved to approve the Master Street Addressing Guide (MSAG) to
reflect the new EDZ District Boundaries.
Vice
Chairman Inman seconded and the motion carried unanimously.
GENERAL GOVERNMENT -
HEALTH DEPARTMENT – PROPOSED HEALTH PERMIT FEE-INDUSTRIAL WASTEWATER
Health
Director Don Moore presented a recommendation from the Board of Health to
charge a $1500 permit fee for an industrial wastewater permit on systems
designed for 10,000 gallons per day or greater capacity.
The
Board of Health voted to recommend the $1500 permit fee to the Board on July
13, 2005 for consideration.
Health
Director Moore explained the intensity of issuing such a permit.
Chairman
John Turpin entertained a motion to approve the request from the Stokes County
Board of Health to implement a permit fee of $1500 for industrial wastewater
permits on systems designed for 10,000 gallons per day or greater
capacity.
Commissioner
Joe Turpin moved to approve the request from the Stokes County Board of Health
to implement a fee of $1500 for industrial wastewater permits on systems
designed for 10,000 gallons per day or greater capacity.
Commissioner
McHugh seconded the motion.
The
Board discussed the pros and cons of the proposed fee for the industrial
astewater permits. Health Director Moore noted surroundings counties such as
Guilford and Forsyth fees were $1500+.
Commissioner
Walker noted that small counties comparable to Stokes should be evaluated
instead of counties like Forsyth and Guilford when comparing the proposed fee
of $1500.
The
motion carried (3-2) with Vice Chairman Inman and Commissioner Walker voting
against the motion.
GENERAL GOVERNMENT – ADMINISTRATION-MILITARY LEAVE REQUEST
County
Manager Rick Morris presented a military leave request for the Board’s
Consideration from SGT Michael Fincannon.
SGT
Michael Fincannon (currently employed by Stokes County EMS) will be deployed
for one year by the US Army to Iraq.
SGT Fincannon will be in harms way and
will officially be deployed under the Army’s “Hazardous Duty”
classification to an active war zone.
SGT
Fincannon has requested to be allowed to accrue sick, vacation, and holiday
leave during his deployment and posted to his account at the time he officially
returns back to Stokes County EMS.
County
Manager Morris recommended the Board approve this request, which will send a
strong signal that this county supports its soldiers when they are placed in
harms way.
Manager
Morris noted that upon approval of the Board, a new policy will be drafted for
the Board’s consideration, which will specify conditions and requirements.
Chairman
John Turpin entertained a motion to approve the requested Military Leave
request from SGT Michael Fincannon.
Commissioner
McHugh moved to approve SGT Fincannon’s military leave request.
The
Board discussed issues pertaining the SGT Fincannon’s military leave request
such as the amount of time being requested, precedence setting, and other
counties’ military policies.
Commissioner
McHugh questioned County Manager Rick Morris if additional benefits were
drafted for the Board’s approval in a policy, would these benefits be applied
to SGT Fincannon.
County
Manager Rick Morris noted that if changes to a policy were approved, these
changes could be retroactive to include SGT. Fincannon.
The
motion carried (4-1) with Commissioner Walker voting against the motion.
Commissioner
Walker stated that his voting against the motion was simply due to not having
the additional information to make an informed and reasonable decision at this
time.
Commissioner
Walker also stated that he was not sure if this was enough and what is the
appropriate amount.
GENERAL GOVERNMENT –
ADMINISTRATION –PROPOSED INTER-GOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT-CITY OF KING
County Manager Rick Morris presented the proposed Inter-Governmental
Agreement with the City of King requested by the Rural Center for the Sauratown
Fire Department Water Line Extension Grant.
The agreement must be approved by the Board of Commissioners and the
City of King Council
County Manager Morris stated that the Rural Center has agreed to allow
the Water and Sewer Authority to put the City of King in charge of the project
and requested an Inter-Local Agreement be prepared. County Manager Morris
attended the King City Council meeting this afternoon (7-25-05- 5:30pm) for
discussion of the proposed agreement.
The City of King approved the proposed agreement with the following
changes:
·
Change to Inter- Local Agreement
instead of Inter-Governmental
Agreement
·
Page 2 – III. Project Management – This Inter-Local Agreement
prepared
by the County of Stokes among the Stokes County Water
Authority,
etc. Change among to “between”
·
Page 2 -V. Reimbursement of the Local Match – Add wording to
include that after the first year of operation when
the system will
be officially turned over to the City of King, that
if all the funding
expensed by the Water and Sewer Authority and
Stokes County
has not been reimbursed, the City of King will pay
off any outstanding
balances in order to have a clean bill of
ownership.
County
Manager Morris also stated that the County would write a letter of notification
to the residents along the proposed waterline informing them of the rate
structure, connection fees, and the transfer of ownership to the City of King
after one year.
The
County would also be willing to follow up with residents concerning the new
water line.
Manager
Morris stated that all parties involved will be setting up a meeting with the
Rural Center in Raleigh within the next week to ensure the funding and the
completion of the project.
Manager
Morris concluded that the matching funds includes an in-kind contribution of
$7500 (previous work performed by Cavanaugh on the project). Manager Morris wanted the Board to know that
if this in-kind contribution was not acceptable, the County could possibly have
to expense the additional $7500 for the project, though reimbursement would
come back to the County within the first year of operation.
Commissioner
Joe Turpin moved to approve the Inter-Governmental Agreement By and Between the
County of Stokes and the City of King as amended by the County Manager along with the schedule and budget
project requirements.
Vice
Chairman Inman seconded the motion.
The
Board continued discussion concerning operation after ownership is turned over
to the City of King, current water rates, and possible additional funding of
$7500.
Commissioner
Walker requested that the County began to look into the utilities needs of County citizens beyond the King area.
Commissioner
McHugh requested that the Board receive a copy of the plan prepared a few years
ago by the Water and Sewer Authority which details the water and sewer
expansion in the County.
The motion carried
unanimously.
GENERAL
GOVERNMENT – ELECTIONS- BUDGET ORDINANCE AMENDMENT #2
Finance Director Julia Edwards requested the approval of Budget
Ordinance Amendment #2 which is necessary to amend the General Fund to
appropriate funds from the State HAVA funds to purchase a computer and printer
for a public workstation. The appropriations are to be changed as followed:
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Increase |
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Elections |
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|
|
100.4170.511 |
|
Equipment –Non Capitalized |
|
|
|
$1,500.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$1,500.00 |
|
Account Number |
|
REVENUES |
|
Decrease |
|
Increase |
|
100.3301.419 |
|
HAVA Grant |
|
|
|
$1,500.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$1,500.00 |
Chairman John Turpin entertained a motion to approve Budget Ordinance
Amendment #2.
Vice Chairman Inman moved to approve Budget Ordinance Amendment #2.
Commissioner Joe Turpin seconded and the motion carried unanimously.
GENERAL
GOVERNMENT – SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT- BUDGET ORDINANCE AMENDMENT #3
Finance Director Julia Edwards requested the approval of Budget
Ordinance Amendment #3 which is necessary to amend the General Fund to
appropriate funds from State Fines and Forfeitures to purchase a Model 96 Beretta
Pistol. The appropriations are to be changed as followed:
|
Account Number |
|
EXPENDITURES |
|
Decrease |
|
Increase |
|
|
|
Sheriff’s Department |
|
|
|
|
|
100.4310.511 |
|
Equipment-Non Capitalized |
|
|
|
$375.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$375.00 |
|
Account Number |
|
REVENUES |
|
Decrease |
|
Increase |
|
100.3301.413 |
|
State Fines &
Forfeitures |
|
|
|
$375.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$375.00 |
Chairman John Turpin entertained a motion to approve Budget Ordinance
Amendment #3.
Commissioner Joe Turpin moved to approve Budget Ordinance Amendment #3.
Commissioner McHugh seconded and the motion carried unanimously.
GENERAL
GOVERNMENT – SAURATOWN WATERLINE PROJECT- BUDGET ORDINANCE AMENDMENT #4
Finance Director Julia Edwards requested the approval of Budget
Ordinance Amendment #4 which is necessary to amend the General Fund to transfer
funds for the Sauratown Fire Department Waterline Project. The appropriations are to be changed as
followed:
|
Account Number |
|
EXPENDITURES |
|
Decrease |
|
Increase |
|
100.4931.002 |
|
Sauratown Waterline
Project |
|
|
|
$15,144.00 |
|
100.9910.000 |
|
Contingency |
|
$15,144.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$15,144.00 |
|
$15,144.00 |
Chairman John Turpin entertained a motion to approve Budget Ordinance
Amendment #4.
Commissioner Joe Turpin moved to approve Budget Ordinance Amendment #4.
Vice Chairman Inman seconded
and the motion carried unanimously.
GENERAL
GOVERNMENT – FINANCE - BUDGET ORDINANCE
AMENDMENT
#5
Finance Director Julia Edwards requested the approval of Budget
Ordinance Amendment #5, which is necessary to amend the General Fund and
Capital Reserve Fund to transfer funds for the financial software upgrade. The appropriations are to be changed as
follows:
|
Account Number |
|
GENERAL FUND |
|
Decrease |
|
Increase |
|
100.4130.511 |
|
Equipment |
|
|
|
$5,400.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$5,400.00 |
|
Account Number |
|
CAPITAL RESERVE |
|
Decrease |
|
Increase |
|
201.4130.000 |
|
Equipment |
|
$5,400.00 |
|
|
|
201.9810.000 |
|
Transfer to General Fund |
|
|
|
$5,400.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
$5,400.00 |
|
$5,400.00 |
To provide the additional revenue for the above, the following revenues
will be increased.
|
Account Number |
|
REVENUES |
|
Decrease |
|
Increase |
|
100.3982.960 |
|
Transfer from Capital Reserve |
|
|
|
$5,400.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$5,400.00 |
Chairman John Turpin entertained a motion to approve Budget Ordinance
Amendment #5.
Commissioner Joe Turpin moved to approve Budget Ordinance Amendment #5.
Commissioner McHugh seconded
and the motion carried unanimously.
GENERAL
GOVERNMENT – ADMINISTRATION- SALE OF TAX FORECLOSED PROPERTY
Support Service
Supervisor Danny Stovall presented a bid for $2,700 from Mr. James Dalton dated
June 27, 2005 to purchase the county tax parcel #6962-10-45-4473 (lots 12-14
Argyle Annex-HWY 65) Deed Book/Page 518-2194 for final approval.
Mr. Stovall reiterated
that the Board had tentatively approved the bid on June 27th with
advertisements for upset bids advertised in the Stokes News on June 30th.
The County received no
upset bid before the July 14th deadline.
The sale is being held in
accordance with NC General Statute 105-376, 153A-176, and 160A-269.
Mr. Stovall concluded
that the Board can accept or reject Mr. Dalton’s offer.
Chairman John Turpin
entertained a motion to accept or reject Mr. Dalton’s offer of $2,700 to
purchase the county tax parcel #6962-10-45-4473 (lots 12-14 Argyle Annex-HWY
65) Deed Book/Page 518-2194.
Commissioner Joe Turpin
moved to accept Mr. Dalton’s offer of $2700 to purchase the county tax parcel
#6962-10-45-4473 (lots 12-14 Argyle Annex-HWY 65) Deed Book/Page 518-2194.
Commissioner McHugh
seconded the motion.
The board discussed the
selling of the foreclosed property.
The motion carried
unanimously.
GENERAL
GOVERNMENT – PLANNING BOARD- APPOINTMENT
Chairman John Turpin
opened the floor for nominations for the Quaker Gap Township appointment for the
Planning Board.
Vice Chairman Inman
stated that he would have a possible nomination at the August 8th meeting.
GENERAL
GOVERNMENT – YVEDDI – APPOINTMENT
YVEDDI Executive Director
Joann Larkin requested an alternate appointment to the YVEDDI Board of Directors. Director Larkin recommended Ms. Sherelene
Beatty- Walnut Cove who had previously served on the YVEDDI Community
Representatives Council.
Chairman John Turpin
nominated Ms. Sherelene Beatty to serve as an alternate appointment to the
YVEDDI Board of Directors. Ms. Beatty
can be considered for appointment at the August 8th meeting.
GENERAL
GOVERNMENT – BOARD OF HEALTH- APPOINTMENTS
Health Director Don Moore
presented a request from the Board of Health to extend the following expired
appointments to December 2005 at which time appointments will be submitted for
another three-year term or recommendation for a replacement:
q
Dr. Nick Chalfa January 2004
q
Greg Collins June
2004
q
Dr. Debbie Cowan September
2004
q
Keith Lawson July
2005
q
Dr. Kevin Walker Exceeds
9 years as of November 2005
q
Brenda Hall Exceeds
9 years as of September 2004
Director Moore noted that
two of the appointees would exceed statutory limitations in December 2005.
Chairman John Turpin
questioned County Attorney Jonathan Jordan pertaining to any legal issue the
Board would be liable for by appointing one member who has already exceeded
statutory limitations.
County Attorney Jordan
stated that General Statute 130A-35 (County Board of Health- Appointment;
Terms) states that in order to establish a uniform staggered term structure for
the board, a member may be appointed for less that a three-year term.
Commissioner Walker
requested guidance from County Attorney Jordan pertaining to a Code of Ethics
issue being that one of the appointees is an immediate relative.
County Attorney Jordan
noted that there was no specific private economic gain, which would require
Commissioner Walker to abstain from voting, but the Board could consider
perception in this matter.
Commissioner Walker moved
to extend the terms of the following Board of Health appointments to December
2005 in order establish a uniform staggered term structure for the board, a
member may be appointed for less that a three-year term:
q
Dr. Nick Chalfa January 2004
q
Greg Collins June
2004
q
Dr. Debbie Cowan September
2004
q
Keith Lawson July
2005
q
Dr. Kevin Walker Exceeds
9 years as of November 2005
q
Brenda Hall Exceeds
9 years as of September 2004
Vice Chairman Inman
seconded and the motion carried unanimously.
GENERAL
GOVERNMENT – ADMINISTRATION- STOKES/FORSYTH TECH ADVISORY COUNCIL - UPDATE
County Manager Rick
Morris updated the Board concerning the Stokes/Forsyth Tech Advisory
Council.
Manager Morris noted that
an advertisement had been placed on the website for the four at-large members
with a deadline of July 29th – 5:00 pm.
Manager Morris noted the following:
·
Superintendent Larry Cartner will serve for the schools
·
All previous named nominations have been notified to
complete
the application appointment form
·
The towns and cities will submit a nomination
·
Mr. & Mrs. Hartley, Rebecca Chalfa, Sam Hill have
previously
expressed interest to serve on the Council
The Forsyth Tech Advisory
Council appointments will be placed on the August 8th agenda.
Commissioner Walker noted
that Worth Hampton also expressed interest in serving on the Council.
GENERAL
GOVERNMENT – ADMINISTRATION- STOKES REYNOLDS MEMORIAL HOSPITAL-FOUNDATION
SETTLEMENT ISSUE-CONTINUATION
County Manager Rick
Morris and Public Works Director Jay Kinney presented additional information
concerning the Stokes Reynolds Memorial Hospital –Foundation Settlement Issue.
Public Works Director
Kinney presented the two following additional bids:
GeoScience &
Technology PA - $3,548.00
Cavanuagh & Associates - $2,500.00
Director Kinney noted the
previous bid from S&ME, Inc for $2,950.00.
The
Board discussed the additional bids received for the proposal for Ground
Penetrating Radar Location Services at Stokes Reynolds Memorial Hospital.
Vice
Chairman Inman moved to accept the $2500 proposal from Cavanaugh &
Associates for Ground Penetrating Radar Location Services at Stokes Reynolds
Memorial Hospital.
Commissioner
Joe Turpin seconded and the motion carried unanimously.
GENERAL
GOVERNMENT –EMS/JAIL – LIQUIDATION OF EMS CHARGES
Chairman John Turpin
presented the following Liquidation of EMS Charges as submitted by Emergency
Services Director Monty Stevens: (all individuals were incarcerated at the
Stokes County Jail)
|
Call Number |
|
Date of Call |
|
Total Charges |
|
0402390 |
|
5/29/2004 |
|
$ 225.18 |
|
0402833 |
|
6/24/2004 |
|
$ 525.04 |
|
0405114 |
|
11/6/2004 |
|
$ 355.47 |
|
0405117 |
|
11/6/2004 |
|
$ 519.57 |
|
0500265 |
|
1/15/2005 |
|
$ 380.47 |
|
0500769 |
|
2/14/2005 |
|
$ 380.47 |
|
0500874 |
|
2/22/2005 |
|
$ 405.47 |
|
0501402 |
|
3/23/2005 |
|
$ 355.47 |
|
0501620 |
|
4/6/2005 |
|
$ 355.47 |
|
0501677 |
|
4/9/2005 |
|
$ 355.47 |
|
0501948 |
|
4/24/2005 |
|
$ 355.47 |
|
|
|
|
|
$ 4,213.55 |
Chairman John Turpin
entertained a motion to approve the submitted EMS liquidations.
Commissioner Joe Turpin
moved to approve the submitted EMS liquidations.
Commissioner McHugh
seconded and the motion carried unanimously.
GENERAL
GOVERNMENT – ADMINISTRATION- TRAVEL REQUEST – NWPCOG
Clerk to the Board
Darlene Bullins presented the final fiscal year 04/05 travel request
reimbursement from NWPCOG for the Stokes Nursing Home Advisory Committee in the
amount of $153.60.
Chairman John Turpin
entertained a motion to approve the reimbursement request in the amount of
$153.60 from NWPCOG for the Stokes Nursing Home Advisory Committee.
Commissioner Joe Turpin
moved to approve the motion for the reimbursement request in the amount of $153.60 from NWPCOG for the Stokes
Nursing Home Advisory Committee.
Commissioner Walker
seconded and the motion carried unanimously.
GENERAL GOVERNMENT – GOVERNING
BODY- REQUEST FROM SHERIFF
JOYCE CONCERNING BADGES FOR
RETIRED SHERIFFS
Chairman John Turpin presented a request to the Board from Sheriff Mike
Joyce who had received a request from a retired Sheriff (at least 10 years of
service) for a County badge.
Sheriff Joyce did not have an opinion on this matter and requested the
Board’s consideration.
The County Badge would be like the regular County Badge except the wording
would states “Retired Sheriff”.
The Board
discussed the following:
·
Any legal issues pertaining to the badge
·
Other retirees requesting badges
The Board took no action on the request.
GENERAL GOVERNMENT –
PLANNING – POSSIBLE CELL PHONE TOWER LOCATION AT THE PRISON CAMP
County Manager Rick Morris informed the Board that a cell phone company
has approached the planning department for possible placement at the prison
camp.
Director Sudderth requested
guidance from the Board before pursuing the request.
The Board discussed the possible placement issue on the property.
The Board directed County Manager Morris to direct Planning Director
Sudderth to pursue the request to see what the company has to offer.
County Manager Rick Morris informed the Board that Paramedics Scott
Brown and Fred Lawson had won the Region 2 Paramedic Competition and will
advance to the State Paramedic Competition in October 2005.
Commissioner Joe Turpin requested the County Manager look into a
possible exchange program with surrounding counties and similar counties such
as personnel handbook, budget, etc for reference.
GENERAL GOVERNMENT –
GOVERNING BODY – FISCAL YEAR 2005/06 BUDGET
Vice Chairman Inman requested the Fiscal Year 2005/06 Adopted County
Budget be open for discussion.
Vice Chairman Inman expressed the following concerns:
·
Questionable items included in the adopted budget
Commissioner Walker
expressed the following concerns:
·
Questioned if changes were made after adoption on June 30th
·
Concerned that the budget in place does not best serve the people of
the County
·
Requested the Board schedule a budget work session to review the
adopted budget
Commissioner McHugh expressed the following:
·
The adopted budget was clearly her proposal with the addition of
changes
placed on the Board on Thursday night.
·
Statements were clearly made that there could be mistakes in the
figures
·
Approved minutes of June 30th clearly disclose the above
points
Commissioner Walker also stated that he did not understand that he was
not adopting the County Manager’s budget and did not realize the adopted budget
included an additional $115,000 ambulance along with other changes.
Commissioner McHugh reiterated that the approved minutes of June 30th
revealed that this budget was Commissioner’s McHugh proposal and part of the
motion even states “use the rest of Commissioner McHugh’s figures from her
recommendations”.
Vice Chairman Inman stated that he also did not understand that he was
not adopting the County Manager’s budget.
Commissioner McHugh concluded that there were items that were deducted
from the proposal before it was adopted that were not in the County Manager’s
budget.
Commissioner Joe Turpin expressed his concern of whether future budget
work sessions would be beneficial.
The Board discussed recessing
tonight’s meeting until Monday, August 1, 2005- 6:00 pm for a budget work
session.
Chairman John Turpin entertained a motion to enter into closed session
for the following:
§
To discuss matters relating to the location or expansion of industries
or other businesses in the County pursuant to G.S. 143-318.11(a)(4).
Vice Chairman Inman moved to enter into closed session for the above.
Commissioner Joe Turpin seconded and the motion carried unanimously.
The Board re-entered into the regular session of the July 25th meeting.
There being no further business to come before the Board, Chairman John
Turpin entertained a motion to recess the meeting until Monday, August 1, 2005
at 6:00pm.
Commissioner Joe Turpin moved to recess the meeting until Monday,
August 1, 2005 at 6:00 pm.
Vice Chairman Inman seconded and the motion carried (4-1) with
Commissioner McHugh voting against the motion.
_________________________ _____________________________
Darlene M. Bullins
John M. Turpin
Clerk to the Board Chairman