) STOKES COUNTY GOVERNMENT
COUNTY OF STOKES ) DANBURY, NORTH CAROLINA
) APRIL 4, 2006
The Board of Commissioners of the County of Stokes, State of North
Carolina, met for regular session (Planning) in the Commissioners’ Chambers of
the Ronald Wilson Reagan Memorial Building (Administrative Building) located in
Danbury, North Carolina on Tuesday, April 4, 2006 at 7:00 pm with the following
members present:
Chairman Leon Inman
Vice-Chairman
Joe Turpin
Commissioner Sandy McHugh
Commissioner John Turpin
Commissioner Jimmy Walker
County
Personnel in Attendance:
Interim
County Manager/Clerk to the Board Darlene Bullins
Planning
Director David Sudderth
Budget
Director Dennis Thompson
Emergency
Services Director Monty Stevens
Others
in Attendance:
Representative
Bryan Holloway–NC House of Representatives
Chairman Leon Inman called the meeting to
order.
Chairman Inman delivered the invocation.
Chairman Inman opened the meeting by inviting the citizens in
attendance to join the Board with the Pledge of
Allegiance.
Chairman Inman
called the Public Hearing for the Rezoning Request #177-(M-1 to H-B) Donald Ray
Cassidy to order.
There were no
public comments.
Chairman Inman
closed the Public Hearing.
Planning Director David Sudderth presented
the request to rezone approximately 4.310 acres from M-1(Light Manufacturing)
to H-B (Highway Business), site owner and applicant Donald Ray Cassidy.
REQUEST: Rezone
approximately 4.310 acres from M-1 (Light Manufacturing to H-B (Highway
Business)
SITE
OWNER: Donald Ray Cassidy
APPLICANT:
Donald Ray Cassidy
SITE
LOCATION:
The property is located at 3865 NC 772 Hwy in the
Dillard community.
Map:
697602 Parcel(s):
2383 PIN #: 6976-02-88-2383
Deed
Book: 543 Page(s): 455 Township: Beaver Island
SITE
INFORMATION:
PARCEL
SIZE: 4.310 acres
ZONING
DISTRICT: M-1 (Light Manufacturing)
PROPOSED
DISTRICT: H-B (Highway-Business)
FLOOD
HAZARD AREA: Not located in flood hazard area.
FIRM
MAP #: 370362 0100 B
FIRM
MAP ZONE: Zone X - Area outside 500-year floodplain.
WATERSHED
DISTRICT: No
SEPTIC/WATER
APPROVAL: Existing system
has been checked by Environmental Health section of Health Department.
SCHOOL
DISTRICTS: N/A
EMERGENCY
SERVICES: Stokes - Rockingham VFD, EMS - Station #
101 Walnut Cove.
EROSION
CONTROL: N/A.
ACCESS:
The business has an existing driveway access off of NC
Hwy 772.
SURROUNDING
LAND USE:
The subject property is located on NC Hwy 772. The
surrounding land use consists of mostly residential properties zoned RA
(Residential Agricultural). There is vacant land in front of and behind the
parcel. The nearest commercial district is located approximately .2 mile south
of the site at the corner of NC Hwy 772 and Dillard Rd. These businesses are
Dillard Hardware & Country Store, Crossroad Auto Repair, and Cassidy’s Used
Cars.
ISSUES
TO CONSIDER:
·
Impact of zoning classification change on
surrounding development.
·
Potential increase in sales tax revenue
from a retail commercial site.
STAFF
COMMENTS:
The rezoning request comes to the Board as a general
use-zoning district; you may discuss the plan in general terms as it relates to
all the potential uses in the H-B (Highway Business) zoning district. This
property has been used for commercial purposes since the zoning ordinance was
adopted in 1983. There are mixed commercial and residential uses along the
length of NC Hwy 772. The site was originally zoned M-1 (Light Manufacturing)
when the zoning ordinance and maps were adopted in 1983. The Wentworth
Corporation owned the property at that time. Most recently the occupant of the
building was Liberty Fab-Tech. The change in zoning classification from M-1
(Light Manufacturing) to H-B (Highway Business) should not present any major
problems for the area. The site will be limited by the existing infrastructure
in regards to the septic system and the potential uses that can be allowed
through the state building codes. Changes in the occupancy of the building may
have additional requirements placed on the use by the state building and health
codes.
PLANNING BOARD RECOMMENDATION: The
Planning Board recommended by a vote of 6 to 0 to recommend approval of the
rezoning request. The Board felt that the rezoning to a general use H-B
(Highway Business) district would open up opportunities not currently available
in the M-1 (Light Manufacturing) district.
Director Sudderth noted that there had been
no opposition to the rezoning
request.
The Board discussed the rezoning request.
Chairman Inman
entertained a motion to accept or deny the request to rezone
approximately 4.310 acres from M-1(Light Manufacturing) to H-B (Highway
Business), site owner and applicant Donald Ray Cassidy.
Vice Chairman Joe Turpin moved to rezone
approximately 4.310 acres from M-1 (Light Manufacturing) to H-B (Highway
Business), site owner and applicant Donald Ray Cassidy (Request #177). Commissioner McHugh seconded and the motion
carried unanimously.
Chairman Inman
called the Public Hearing for the Rezoning Request #178-RA-(Residential
Agricultural) to H-B (Highway Business) to order.
There were no
public comments.
Chairman Inman
closed the Public Hearing.
Planning Director David Sudderth presented
the request to rezone approximately 1.03 acres from RA (Residential
Agricultural to H-B (Highway Business) site owner and applicant Murrell L.
Townsend Sr.
REQUEST: Rezone
approximately 1.03 acres from RA (Residential Agricultural) to
H-B
(Highway Business).
SITE
OWNER: Murrell L Townsend Sr.
APPLICANT:
Murrell L Townsend Sr.
SITE
LOCATION:
The property is located at 3389 Rosebud Rd. (SR# 1944)
at the intersection with NC Hwy 8.
Map:
693302 Parcel:
portion of 6372 & 7470 PIN #: 6933-02-89-6372
6933-02-89-7470
Deed
Book: 506 Pages: 2084 Township: Meadows
SITE
INFORMATION:
PARCEL
SIZE: Total tract 1.03 acres
AREA PROPOSED: 1.03
acres
ZONING
DISTRICT: RA (Residential Agricultural)
PROPOSED
DISTRICT: H-B (Highway Business)
FLOOD
HAZARD AREA: N/A.
FIRM
MAP #: 370362 0150B
FIRM
MAP ZONE: Property is
located in Zone X, area determined to be outside
the 500-year floodplain.
WATERSHED DISTRICT: N/A
SEPTIC/WATER
APPROVAL: Stokes County
Environmental Health section. A final approved permit must be issued.
SCHOOL
DISTRICTS: N/A
EMERGENCY
SERVICES: South Stokes VFD, EMS -
Station # 101 Walnut Cove.
EROSION
CONTROL: N/A
ACCESS:
The proposed business will have driveway access off of
NC Hwy 8 (NCDOT must approve a commercial driveway permit).
SURROUNDING
LAND USE:
The subject property is located at the corner of
Rosebud Rd. (SR# 1944) and NC Hwy 8. The applicant owns the land behind the
proposed rezoning. The majority of the surrounding property is residentially
zoned. The closest commercial property is located directly across Rosebud Rd.
and is zoned H-B (Highway Business). Charles Thomas Hedrick Jr. owns the
property and currently operates an automobile garage.
ISSUES
TO CONSIDER:
·
Impact on surrounding development.
·
Consistency with surrounding development.
·
Impact on community infrastructure, roads,
public services etc.
·
Need of services provided.
·
Potential tax base increase due to
commercial development.
STAFF
COMMENTS:
The rezoning request comes to the Board as a general
use-zoning district; you may discuss the plan in general terms as it relates to
all the potential uses in the H-B (Highway Business) zoning district. The
applicant is requesting to rezone his property to expand the existing H-B
(Highway Business) zoning district. There is approximately .565 acres zoned H-B
(Highway Business) that was shown on the original zoning maps. There is an
existing store that Mr. Townsend and his wife operate as “Sam’s Country Store”.
This store, originally known as Spencer’s Store has been in existence since
1935. The rezoning petition would separate an existing house from the
commercial store property creating a separate lot for each use. The staff sees
no major problem with the rezoning request due to the existing commercial zones
nearby as well as the mixed pattern of commercial and residential development
along NC Hwy 8. The increased area proposed for rezoning will allow for better
access, parking and expansion opportunities for the existing business as well
as creating separate lots for the residential and commercial uses of the
property.
PLANNING BOARD RECOMMENDATION: The
Planning Board recommended by a vote of 6 to 0 to recommend approval of the
rezoning request. The Board felt that the rezoning to a general use H-B
(Highway Business) district would be consistent with the pattern of development
in the area, as well as allowing the existing business an opportunity to
expand.
Director Sudderth noted that there had been
no opposition to the rezoning
request, but had a couple of inquiries requesting information.
Chairman Inman
entertained a motion to accept or deny the request to rezone
approximately 1.03 acres from RA (Residential Agricultural to H-B (Highway
Business) site owner and applicant Murrell L. Townsend Sr.
Commissioner John
Turpin moved to rezone approximately 1.03 acres from RA (Residential
Agricultural to H-B (Highway Business) site owner and applicant Murrell L.
Townsend Sr. (Request 178).
Commissioner McHugh seconded and the motion
carried unanimously
RA to RE-CU # 179
Chairman Inman
called the Public Hearing for the Rezoning Request #179 (RA to RE-CU) to order.
William H Kiser - Trustee
1185 Green Meadow
lane
Germanton,
NC 27019
Mr. Kiser who is
Trustee for the Lillian Sprinkle Tuttle Trust stated the land involved in this
rezoning request was owned by Lillian and Arnold Tuttle. The Tuttle’s will specifies that the
proceeds from their estate go to the things that Mr. and Mrs. Tuttle loved-
their church- Friendship Baptist Church. Mr. Kiser is preparing the land in
question for sale and proceeds will go to Friendship Baptist Church. Mr. Kiser presented pictures of the lots to the
Board.
Mr. Kiser noted
that only stick built homes would be allowed on the proposed 9-lot
subdivision. Mr. Kiser respectfully
requested that the Board approve the rezoning request.
Sam Townsend
3389 Rosebud Road
Walnut Cove,
NC 27052
Mr. Townsend had
incorrectly signed up on the wrong public hearing sign up sheet.
Mr. Townsend had
no comments – his rezoning request had already been approved.
James Stewart
1114 Bolejack
Road
Germanton,
NC 27019
Mr. Stewart who
is an adjoining landowner stated that with the stipulations of only stick built
homes, not everyone who lives in the area and would like to purchase the land
would possibly be unable to buy the land and built a stick built home just
starting out. Mr. Stewart stated that
the stipulations could prevent area citizens from buying the land who could
possibly only start out with a single or double wide mobile home. Mr. Stewart
stated that he had not been offered an opportunity to buy any of the adjoining
land.
Jerry Rutledge
PO Box 66
Germanton,
NC 27019
Mr. Rutledge
noted that the land in the rezoning request is a perfect, desirable location
with a great view for the rezoning proposal, which will be an asset for the
County. Mr. Rutledge noted that the
proposal would be a credit to the County, a credit the Community, and a credit
to William Kiser
for his dedication to Friendship Baptist Church and Mr. and Mrs. Tuttle.
Mr. Rutledge also
noted that there could be possibly more stipulations than the County requires
which will add value to the County’s tax value. Mr. Rutledge requested the Board’s approval for the rezoning
request.
Anthony Stewart
1167 Bolejack
Road
Germanton,
NC 27019
Mr. Stewart
expressed concerns with this subdivision and the numerous subdivisions in the
area (6 subdivisions within a five mile area).
Mr. Stewart does not feel that the County’s
infrastructure is
ready for this many subdivisions at this time.
Mr. Stewart stated that local schools are already overcrowded, the
impact on volunteer fire and rescue services, increase on EMS and Sheriff’s
Department, and the increased traffic.
Mr. Stewart requested that the Board consider doing a study on the
impact of all these subdivisions to the area before voting on this rezoning
request.
There were no
other public comments.
Chairman Inman
closed the Public Hearing.
RA to RE-CU # 179
Planning Director David Sudderth presented
the request to rezone approximately 82.283 acres from RA (Residential
Agricultural) to RE-CU (Residential Exclusive Conditional Use) for a 9-lot
residential subdivision, site owner Lillian Sprinkle Tuttle Trust and applicant
William H. Kiser- Trustee.
REQUEST: Rezone
approximately 82.283 acres from RA (Residential Agricultural) to RE-CU
(Residential Exclusive Conditional Use) for a 9-lot residential subdivision.
SITE
OWNER: Lillian Sprinkle Tuttle Trust
APPLICANT: William H.
Kiser - Trustee
SITE
LOCATION:
The property is located on Bolejack Rd. (SR#1961)
approximately .6 miles southwest of the intersection of NC Hwy 8 and Bolejack
Rd.
Map:
693201 Parcel(s): 8837, 9796, 9286 PIN
#: 6932-01-08-9286 6932-01-29-9796
6932-01-29-8837
Deed
Book(s): 95, 174,280 Page(s): 388,559,403 Township: Meadows
SITE
INFORMATION:
PARCEL
SIZE: Total tract 82.283 acres
ZONING
DISTRICT: RA (Residential Agricultural)
PROPOSED
DISTRICT: RE-CU (Residential Exclusive Conditional
Use)
TOTAL LOTS: Proposed
9-lot subdivision.
LOT
SIZES: Range from 4.087
acres to 23.106 acres
FLOOD
HAZARD AREA: Not located in flood hazard area.
FIRM
MAP #: 370362 0125 B
FIRM
MAP ZONE: Zone X - Area outside 500-year floodplain.
WATERSHED
DISTRICT: N/A
SEPTIC/WATER
APPROVAL: Mr. Joseph A. Hinton a licensed soil
scientist has evaluated the site for septic disposal. This report was prepared
in July 2005 for William H. Kiser - Trustee who is the applicant. Individual
septic and well permits will have to be issued for each proposed lot by the
Stokes County Health Department, (Environmental Health Section).
SCHOOL
DISTRICTS: Germanton Elementary, Southeastern Middle,
South Stokes High
EMERGENCY
SERVICES: South Stokes VFD, EMS - Station # 101 –
Walnut Cove.
EROSION
CONTROL: Plan would be submitted at permitting phase
and for construction with North Carolina Division of Environment Health and Natural
Resources, (DEHNR) if necessary.
ACCESS: Access for
proposed lots would be off of Bolejack Rd. (SR# 1961). The developer would be
required to submit information to NCDOT to obtain the individual subdivision
driveway approvals.
SURROUNDING
LAND USE:
The subject property has two dwelling units located on
proposed lots #3 & 7. The remaining property is currently vacant. The
surrounding property on all sides is zoned RA (Residential Agricultural) and is
either vacant or used for residential purposes. The primary housing type along
Bolejack Rd. is stick-built homes which is the housing type allowed in the RE
(Residential Exclusive) zoning district.
ISSUES
TO CONSIDER:
·
Housing compatibility with surrounding
neighborhood.
·
Low density development
·
Impact on existing community
infrastructure, schools, roads, public services etc.
·
Increase in residential tax base.
STAFF
COMMENTS:
This rezoning request comes to the Board as a request
for a conditional use rezoning for a 9-lot residential subdivision to be rezoned
to
RE –CU (Residential Exclusive) that would
allow stick built and modular housing. The Board may discuss the development
plan in detail. The addition of stick-built homes in this area is consistent
with the immediate surrounding property development. A low-density large lot
subdivision consisting of only nine (9) lots should not affect the surrounding
property or the infrastructure in the general area in an adverse manner. The
parcel could have been subdivided into (8) ten-acre parcels as an exempted
subdivision under the subdivision regulations. The subdivision review committee
will have to review the subdivision proposal on its technical merits if
approved by the Board.
Mr. Sudderth noted that Mr. Tuttle could
have developed this property as an exempt subdivision if only 8 lots had been
involved which would not have had to come before the Board. Mr. Sudderth presented the Board with a
diagram, which reflects the school’s population in the area from the recent demographic
study. At the present time, the study
reveals the following:
·
Southeastern Middle School – 98%
·
South Stokes High School -76%
·
Germanton – 74%
The Board discussed the pros and cons of
the rezoning requests.
Commissioner McHugh expressed concerns that
adjoining landowners such as farmers would not have opportunity to buy and
incorporate the land into their farm if the rezoning request was approved with
the stipulations- the land would already be rezoned to RE-CU.
Mr. Kiser stated that the land had been
offered in the past for hay production without anyone wanting to use the land.
At the present time, there is no broken ground farming on Bolejack Road except
a small amount of hay. Mr. Kiser also
noted that there had been several requests to buy the lots, but that there have
been no offers made to anyone.
Mr. Kiser stated that he felt that this was
the best option for the land.
The Board discussed the types of homes
being considered for the subdivision.
Mr. Sudderth stated the only calls received
pertaining to the rezoning were concerning the valuation of existing homes in
the area if high end homes were built in the subdivision.
Mr. Sudderth discussed advantages and
disadvantages of the exempt 8 lot subdivision.
Chairman Inman entertained a motion to
approve or deny the request to rezone approximately 82.283 acres from RA
(Residential Agricultural) to RE-CU (Residential Exclusive Conditional Use) for
a 9-lot residential subdivision, site owner Lillian Sprinkle Tuttle Trust and
applicant William H. Kiser- Trustee.
Commissioner Walker moved to approve the
request to rezone approximately 82.283 acres from RA (Residential Agricultural)
to RE-CU (Residential Exclusive Conditional Use) for a 9-lot residential
subdivision, site owner Lillian Sprinkle Tuttle Trust and applicant William H.
Kiser- Trustee (Request #179).
Commissioner John Turpin seconded the
motion.
The Board continued discussion regarding
the rezoning request.
The motion carried (4-1) with Commissioner
McHugh voting against the motion.
Director Sudderth presented the following
recommendations for Lillian Sprinkle Tuttle Trust (RE-CU #179) which Mr. Kiser
and Attorney Jerry Rutledge had reviewed and agreed upon.
2.
All required permits must be obtained from the County Inspections
Department prior to placing structures on the property, as well as any signage
that may accompany the project.
3. Each dwelling unit shall also have a
visible lot number in a numbering scheme approved by the County to facilitate
rapid emergency response (E- 911).
4.
If conflict arises between any conditions or the developer’s proposed
site plan or written text, the most
stringent conditions or requirements shall be considered the governing
requirement.
5. All
costs and expenses associated with complying with these conditions shall be
borne by the landowner/developer, with no expense being borne by the County.
The Board must respond and vote on each of
the following items.
Planning Director Sudderth requested the Board’s approval for the
following:
132.1
Action
by the Planning Board
The
Planning Board shall review the application prior to the public hearing and
shall present its recommendations to the responsible body prior to or at the
public hearing. The Planning Board may
reverse its recommendations following the public hearing and present such
recommendations to the responsible body before final action is taken. The
responsible body shall approve, modify, or deny the application for use
following the public hearing. In
granting a conditional use, the responsible body shall insure:
(a) The requested use is listed among the
conditional uses in the district for which application is made. (5-0)
(b) The requested use is essential or desirable
to the public convenience or welfare. (5-0)
(c) The requested use will not impair the
integrity or character of the surrounding or adjoining districts, nor be
detrimental to the health, morals, or welfare. (5-0)
(d) Due consideration has been given to the
suitability of the property for the use applied for with respect to trends of
growth or change; the effect of the proposed use upon the community;
requirements for transportation, schools, parks, playgrounds, recreational
area, conservation of natural resources, preservation of floodplains, and
encouraging the most appropriate use of the land. (5-0)
(e) Adequate utilities, access roads, drainage,
sanitation and/or other necessary facilities have been or are being
provided. (5-0)
(f)
That adequate measures have been or will be
taken to provide ingress and egress so designed as to minimize traffic
congestion in the public streets. (5-0)
Mr.
Sudderth included the following in the Board’s agenda regarding the Conditional
Use Permit.
Prior to the
granting of any conditional use, the Planning Board may recommend, and the
responsible body (either the Governing Body or the Board of Adjustment) may
stipulate, such conditions and restrictions upon the establishment, location,
reconstruction, maintenance, and operation of the conditional use as it deemed
necessary for the protection of the public interest and to secure compliance
with the standards and requirements specified in Subsection 132.5 above. In all cases in which conditional uses are
granted, the responsible body shall require such evidence and guarantees as it
may deem necessary as proof that the conditions stipulated are being met. Conditions may include, but not limited to,
the following:
(a) Conditions may be imposed to abate or
restrict noise, smoke, dust, or other elements that may affect surrounding
properties.
(b) Establish setback, side, front, and rear
yard requirements necessary for orderly expansion and to prevent traffic
congestion.
(c) Provide adjoining property with a buffer or
shield from view of the proposed use if necessary.
(d) Establish
a time limit at expiration of which the permit or approval shall no longer be
valid, or shall require renewal.
134.1
Compliance
with Other Codes
Granting a conditional use does not
exempt applicant from complying with all of the requirements of other
ordinances.
134.2
Revocation
In any case where the conditions of
a conditional use have not been or are not being met, the Enforcement Officer
shall give the grantee notice of intention to revoke approval. Said notice
shall be at least ten (10) days prior to action by the responsible body
considering conditional uses.
134.3
Expiration
In any case where a conditional use
has not been exercised within the time limit set by the responsible body, or
within one (1) year if no specific time limit has been set, then without
further action, the approval shall be null and void. “Exercised” as set forth in this Section shall mean that binding
contracts for the construction of the main building have been let; or in the
absence of contracts that the main building is under construction to a
substantial degree; or that prerequisite conditions involving substantial
investment are constructed in a substantial stage of development, or completed
(sewage, drainage, etc.). When
construction is not a part of the use, “exercised” shall mean that the use in
operation is in compliance with the conditions which are set forth in the
approval.
Chairman Inman entertained a motion to
approve or deny the Conditional Use Permit #179 – Lillian Sprinkle Tuttle
Trust.
Commissioner John Turpin moved to approve
the Conditional Use Permit #179 – Lillian Sprinkle Tuttle Trust.
Vice Chairman Joe Turpin seconded and the
motion carried unanimously.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
There were no public comments.
GENERAL
GOVERNMENT – GOVERNING BODY – PROPOSED WALNUT COVE LIBRARY EXPANSION PROJECT
Budget Director Dennis Thompson presented
the following updated information regarding the proposed Walnut Cove Library
Expansion Project:
(Mr. Thompson
presented Board members with a detailed information sheet reflecting estimated
figures)
·
GED Courses currently being taught at the
Library
·
After school programs being held
·
2005 door count = approximately 27,000
·
Approximately 3,000 registered patrons
·
Regular meeting place for several
organizations
·
Original funding approved by the County =
$200,000
·
Original funding approved by the Town of
Walnut Cove = $100,000
·
Original Project Estimate = $702,639.41
·
Estimated Revenues – Private Donations =
$274,287.10 with a balance due $55,925
·
Total Revenue = $574,287.10
·
Original Project Shortfall = $139,496.91
Revised Project Estimates
·
Revised estimated project costs =
$900,859.41
·
Guaranteed Available revenue = $450,000.00
·
Estimated Project Shortfall = $379,204.01
which does not include any interest which will depend on the amount and terms
of the loan
Possible
Financing
·
Debt service of $212,000 (Stokes Reynolds)
will be retired in the
2006-07 fiscal
year
·
Requesting the Town of Walnut Cove to be
the finance agent- possible USDA Loan
·
Possibly discussing the proposed project
again with Local Government
Commission (LGC)
to explore the possibility of the County handling the financing based on the
anticipation of a favorable opinion by the auditor concerning the County’s fund
balance after July 1, 2006.
Mr. Thompson concluded that the actual
amount of the shortfall would vary depending on site development costs, actual
costs of construction loan, and contingency expenditures; and on how much
additional revenue will be received from outstanding private donor pledges and
new pledges.
Chairman Inman noted that interest charges
if the loan was secured by a 30 or 40 year loan could be extremely costly-
depending upon the length and the amount of the loan.
The Board discussed the following regarding
the proposed expansion project:
·
Original request from the Walnut Cove
Library Project
·
The expansion project -2,850 sq. ft.
·
The County’s fund balance
·
Original County $200,000 allocation
·
Approval must be received from LGC for the
Town of Walnut Cove
to
secure the loan
·
The estimated shortfall of the project
·
The building being transferred to the Town
of Walnut Cove
·
The increase in the cost of the project
·
Allocations made to other libraries in the
County
·
Interest costs
·
Terms of the loan
·
Private donations
Clerk to the Board Darlene Bullins reported
to the Board that Librarian Betty Smith was unable to attend tonight’s meeting
due to attending the Walnut Cove Town meeting.
Commissioner McHugh noted due to the Town
of Walnut Cove meeting tonight to discuss the expansion project, the Board
should delay any further discussion until after the Town of Walnut Cove meets.
Commissioner Walker noted the need to find
a fair, equitable, and balanced formula for allocations for each library in the
County.
Chairman Inman concluded the need for the
Board to have all the information available pertaining to the estimated
increase cost of the project.
The Board unanimously agreed to delay any
further discussion until response is received from the Town of Walnut Cove.
Chairman Inman directed the Interim County
Manager Bullins to contact Town Manager Jack Gardin regarding the Town’s
participation in the project and report back to the Board.
GENERAL
GOVERNMENT – GOVERNING BODY – REPRESENTATIVE BRYAN HOLLOWAY – COUNTY ‘S SHARE
OF MEDICAID COST
Chairman Inman welcomed Representative
Bryan Holloway and expressed the Board’s appreciation for his attendance at
tonight’s meeting.
Representative Holloway expressed his
appreciation to the Board for the invitation.
Representative Holloway discussed the
following regarding current bills and options regarding the County’s Medicaid
obligation:
·
House Bill #316 to Phase Out County/Share
Medicaid sponsored by Representatives Holloway, Moore, and Preston
·
House Bill #316 will phase out the county’s
share of Medicaid beginning July 1, 2006 with no trade offs
·
House Bill #316 will totally eliminate the
county participation in Medicaid - effective July 1, 2010
·
Representative Tony Rand’s bill (Cumberland
County), which eliminates the county’s participation in Medicaid by returning
Article #39 1% Sales Tax Revenue
·
Representative Rand’s bill would also
enacted a provision that would allow the County to enact a local 1cent sales
tax
·
Newest option (March 28, 2006)– House
Medicaid Subcommittee adopted a proposal to use $65 million to provide Medicaid
relief Counties in
2006-07 – Under
the plan $3.4 million would be used to cap County Medicaid costs at the 2005-06
level of $459.8 million – Additional $34.6 million would be used to provide
targeted relief to all counties based upon a County’s percentage Medicaid’s
eligible citizens
Representative Holloway stated that the
Counties Medicaid share is projected to be $488 million in 2006-07 and with the
anticipated national growth rate of 8.6 percent, it could be $1 billion within
the next ten years and that the issue could not even be addressed in the
upcoming short session.
Representative Holloway reiterated the need
for a decision to be made regarding this issue.
The Board
discussed the three plans presented by Representative Holloway, the County’s current
Medicaid cost, the effects of the “Swap Bill” which takes away the Article #39
Sales Tax Revenue in lieu of the County’s Medicaid costs, the anticipated
2005-06 County’s Medicaid costs, and the need to send another Resolution
regarding Medicaid Relief for Stokes County.
The Board
expressed their appreciation to Representative Holloway for his attendance at
tonight’s meeting.
The Board
directed the Clerk to prepare a Resolution regarding State Assumption Of
Medicaid Cost and include the support of Representative Bryan Holloway’s House
Bill #316.
GENERAL GOVERNMENT – PLANNING – RPO (RURAL PLANNING
ORGANIZATION)
Planning
Director David Sudderth presented a request from the RPO who is performing a
transportation plan for Stokes County to eliminate the (1993-2003 dates) from
the existing Stokes County Development Guide (1993-2003). NCDOT will be able use this plan if the
County eliminates the dates from the title.
The transportation plan would make the County eligible for possible
funding for TIP Projects and would be a component for a future Comprehensive
Plan.
Commissioner
McHugh moved to approve that the County approve the Stokes County Land
Development Guide for use in Stokes County as of April 4th and here
forward until a new Guide is developed and remove the 1993-2003 date from the
plan.
Vice
Chairman Joe Turpin seconded the motion.
Commissioner
John Turpin noted that several items in the plan needs to be updated. Planning Director Sudderth noted that
Economic Development Director Ron Morgan and himself would be updating the
plan.
The motion
carried unanimously.
GENERAL GOVERNMENT – PLANNING – UPDATE ON BOOTH
MOUNTAIN/PRISON CAMP PROPERTY
Planning
Director David Sudderth noted that Alltel had submitted an escrow account to
seek placement on the tower at Booth Mountain.
Per the County’s consultant, the tower seems to be full with whip
antennas. Alltel is requesting if the
County would be willing to move some
items around if possible.
Emergency
Communications Del Hall contacted RCS and noted that correspondence indicates
that there seems to be no available space, but a third party consultant could
possibly free up some space by re-arranging.
The third party consultant would be at Alltel’s expense.
Planning
Director Sudderth requested the Board’s direction in allowing a third party
consultant (engineering firm) to evaluate the space.
The Board
directed Mr. Sudderth to continue with the third party consultant and to keep
the Board updated on all aspects of the project.
Planning
Director Sudderth noted that information had been given to the Cingular
representative regarding looking at another location on the Prison Camp
Property per the Board’s direction. At
the present time, no further information had been received from the Cingular
representative.
GENERAL GOVERNMENT – PLANNING – MPO
Planning
Director David Sudderth presented information from Forsyth County regarding a
recent fly over project (aerial photography) that includes mapping for the MPO,
which includes a small portion of the County – City of King and Germanton area.
The
request is for Stokes County to pay for portion of the fly over costs which
amounts to approximately $14, 000 which has already been completed Stokes
County being notified of the project.
Director
Sudderth has presented the request information to Economic Development Director
Ron Morgan, GIS/Mapping Director Jake Oakley, and the City of King for their
input regarding the benefits of the fly over.
Interim
County Manager Darlene Bullins noted that the request would be included in the
proposed 2006-07 budget for the Board’s consideration.
Planning
Director Sudderth concluded that any information received would be included in
the proposed 2006-07 budget.
GENERAL GOVERNMENT – PUBLIC BUILDINGS- BUDGET ORDINANCE
AMENDMENT #85
Clerk to the Board Darlene Bullins
requested the approval of Budget Ordinance Amendment #85, which is necessary to
amend the General Fund to transfer funds for cleaning the ductwork at the
Jail. The appropriations are to be
changed as follows:
|
Account |
EXPENDITURES |
|
|
|
|
Number |
|
Decrease |
|
Increase |
|
|
Public Buildings |
|
|
|
|
100.4190.330 |
Utilities |
$3,500.00 |
|
|
|
100.4190.352 |
Equipment – Non
Capitalized |
|
|
$3,500.00 |
|
|
|
$3,500.00 |
|
$3,500.00 |
Finance Director Edwards noted that the following justification of the
budget ordinance amendment for fiscal year 2005-06:
·
Public Works Director requested funds to be transferred for cleaning
Clerk to the Board Darlene Bullins noted the need of cleaning the duct
work at the Jail due to complaints from inmates and county employees.
Chairman Inman entertained a motion to approve Budget Ordinance
Amendment #85.
Vice Chairman Joe Turpin moved to approve Budget Ordinance Amendment
#85.
Commissioner McHugh seconded and the motion carried unanimously.
GENERAL
GOVERNMENT – EMS – REQUEST FOR EMS SERVICES AT 311 SPEEDWAY
Emergency Medical Services Monty Stevens
presented a request to the Board from Mr. Bob Johnson – new owner of 311
Speedway who is requesting that Stokes County EMS be allowed to take care of
medical care at the track.
Director Stevens informed the Board of the
following regarding the request:
·
Medical care previously provided by Madison
Rockingham Rescue Squad which does not transport
·
Madison Rockingham Rescue is no longer
providing the service
·
Mr. Johnson requested a unit such as Walnut
Cove to stand by
·
Staffing could be a problem – all Saturday
night hours
·
Staffing cannot be paid at time and a half
due to employee performing the same duties as their regular job – per the
Institute of Government
·
Possibly renting an ambulance from the
County and wages paid directly to employees by the track officials
·
Malpractice
·
Worker’s Compensation
·
Liability – possible accidents going to and
from the track
·
Unit availability
·
Entrapment or a pinned-in situation that
would result in having to call a fire department due to lack of proper
equipment
·
County Attorney Jordan expresses grave
concerns with contracting with the Speedway
Director Stevens requested guidance from
the Board regarding the request from Mr. Bob Johnson.
The Board discussed the request from Mr.
Johnson.
The Board unanimously agreed with the
concerns proposed by Director Stevens.
GENERAL
GOVERNMENT – GOVERNING BODY – TREE – KIRBY ROAD
Vice Chairman Joe Turpin informed the Board
of a situation on Kirby Road in King dealing with a large tree (estimated 250
years old) that is being considered by NCDOT to be taken down due to putting in
a turning lane. The citizens are very
concerned about saving the tree.
The Board directed Vice Chairman Joe Turpin
to investigate what impact the tree has on the turning lane and return to the
Board for further discussion.
GENERAL
GOVERNMENT – GOVERNING BODY – ROCK HOUSE RURITAN CLUB
Clerk to the Board Darlene Bullins reminded
the Board of the April 10th meeting scheduled at Rock House Ruritan
Club.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come
before the Board, Chairman Inman entertained a motion to adjourn the meeting.
Vice Chairman Joe Turpin moved to adjourn
the meeting. Commissioner McHugh
seconded and the motion carried unanimously.
_________________________
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