) STOKES COUNTY GOVERNMENT
COUNTY OF STOKES ) DANBURY, NORTH CAROLINA
) JANUARY 12, 2009
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,
January 12, 2009 at 1:30 pm with the following members present:
Chairman J. Leon
Inman
Vice-Chairman
Jimmy Walker
Commissioner Ron
Carroll
Commissioner
Ernest Lankford
Commissioner
Stanley Smith
County
Personnel in Attendance:
County
Manager K. Bryan Steen
Clerk
to the Board Darlene Bullins
Finance
Director Julia Edwards
Support
Services Supervisor Danny Stovall
EMS
Director Monty Stevens
Public Works
Director Mark Delehant
Tax
Administrator Jake Oakley
Chairman J. Leon Inman called the meeting to
order.
Vice Chairman Walker delivered the invocation.
Chairman Inman opened
the meeting by inviting the citizens in attendance to join the
Board with the Pledge of Allegiance.
GENERAL GOVERNMENT
– GOVERNING BODY – APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Chairman Inman entertained a motion to approve
or amend the January 12, 2009
Agenda.
Commissioner Smith
requested to add the following to the Agenda:
·
Proposed Pinnacle EMS Station on Chestnut Grove
Road
Vice Chairman Walker requested to add the
following to the Agenda:
·
Update on the Meadows Property
The Board unanimously
agreed to add the requests from Vice Chairman Walker and
Commissioner Smith to today’s Agenda.
Chairman Inman
directed the Clerk to add Commissioner Smith’s request to the
Discussion Agenda and Vice Chairman Walker’s request to the Information
Agenda.
Commissioner Lankford
moved to approve the January 12, 2009 Agenda as amended.
Commissioner Smith seconded and the motion carried unanimously.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
There were no public comments.
CONSENT AGENDA
Chairman Inman entertained a motion to approve
or amend the following items
on the Consent Agenda:
Minutes
Health Department
– Budget Amendment #40
Finance Director Julia Edwards
submitted Budget Ordinance Amendment #40.
To amend the General Fund, the expenditures are to
be changed as follows:
|
|
|
Current |
|
|
|
Account |
Account |
Budgeted |
Increase |
As |
|
Number |
Description |
Amount |
(Decrease) |
Amended |
|
|
Health Department |
|
|
|
|
100.5100.511 |
Equipment – Non-Capital |
$11,072.00 |
$3,000.00 |
$14,072.00 |
|
|
Totals |
$11,072.00 |
$3,000.00 |
$14,072.00 |
This budget amendment is justified as follows:
The Health Department has been awarded additional
funds from the State Immunization Branch to purchase a commercial
refrigerator/freezer for vaccine storage.
This will result in a net increase of $3,000.00 in
the expenditures and other financial use to the County’s annual budget. To provide the additional revenue for the
above, the following revenues will increase.
These revenues have already been verified through the State’s WIRM
Reporting System.
|
|
|
Current |
|
|
|
Account |
Account |
Budgeted |
Increase |
As |
|
Number |
Description |
Amount |
(Decrease) |
Amended |
|
100.3301.239 |
Immunization Action Plan |
$14,616.00 |
$3,000.00 |
$17,616.00 |
|
|
Totals |
$14,616.00 |
$3,000.00 |
$17,616.00 |
Sheriff’s
Department and Emergency Medical Services – Budget Amendment #41
Finance Director Julia Edwards
submitted Budget Ordinance Amendment #41.
To amend the General Fund, the expenditures are to
be changed as follows:
|
|
|
Current |
|
|
|
Account |
Account |
Budgeted |
Increase |
As |
|
Number |
Description |
Amount |
(Decrease) |
Amended |
|
|
Sheriff’s Department |
|
|
|
|
100.4310.351 |
Maintenance. & Repairs
– Auto |
$66,295.00 |
$1,487.00 |
$67,782.00 |
|
|
Emergency Medical Services |
|
|
|
|
100.4370.351 |
Maintenance & Repairs -
Auto |
$31,195.00 |
$1,175.00 |
$32,370.00 |
|
|
Totals |
$97,490.00 |
$2,662.00 |
$100,152.00 |
This budget amendment is justified as follows:
To appropriate insurance claims funds for repairs
caused by deer damage.
This will result in a net increase of $2,662.00 in
the expenditures and other financial use to the County’s annual budget. To provide the additional revenue for the
above, the following revenues will increase. These revenues have already been received or
are verified they will be received in this fiscal year.
|
|
|
Current |
|
|
|
Account |
Account |
Budgeted |
Increase |
As |
|
Number |
Description |
Amount |
(Decrease) |
Amended |
|
100.3839.850 |
Insurance Claims |
$2,100.00 |
$2,662.00 |
$4,762.00 |
|
|
Totals |
$2,100.00 |
$2,662.00 |
$4,762.00 |
Health Department
– Budget Amendment #42
Finance Director Julia Edwards
submitted Budget Ordinance Amendment #42.
To amend the General Fund, the expenditures are to
be changed as follows:
|
|
|
Current |
|
|
|
Account |
Account |
Budgeted |
Increase |
As |
|
Number |
Description |
Amount |
(Decrease) |
Amended |
|
|
Health Department |
|
|
|
|
100.5100.311 |
Employee Training |
$10,180.00 |
$1,000.00 |
$11,180.00 |
|
100.5100.261 |
Office Supplies |
$17,926.00 |
$5,911.00 |
$23,837.00 |
|
|
Totals |
$28,106.00 |
$6,911.00 |
$35,017.00 |
This budget amendment is justified as follows:
Participation n the WIC Program continues to grow in
NC. Due to this growth, Stokes County
has been awarded additional funding for the FY 2008-09 for agencies that are
currently serving greater than 100% of their average base caseload. The WIC Program will be fixing a
breastfeeding room for moms who have one or more children for privacy and
relaxation while waiting for their appointment.
This will result in a net increase of $6,911.00 in
the expenditures and other financial use to the County’s annual budget. To provide the additional revenue for the
above, the following revenues will increase.
These revenues have already been received or are verified they will be received
in this fiscal year.
|
|
|
Current |
|
|
|
Account |
Account |
Budgeted |
Increase |
As |
|
Number |
Description |
Amount |
(Decrease) |
Amended |
|
100.3301.232 |
WIC Client Services |
$103,501.00 |
$6,911.00 |
$110,412.00 |
|
|
Totals |
$103,501.00 |
$6,911.00 |
$110,412.00 |
Finance Department
– Budget Amendment #43
Finance Director Julia Edwards
submitted Budget Ordinance Amendment #43.
To amend the General Fund, the expenditures are to
be changed as follows:
|
|
|
Current |
|
|
|
Account |
Account |
Budgeted |
Increase |
As |
|
Number |
Description |
Amount |
(Decrease) |
Amended |
|
|
Register of Deeds |
|
|
|
|
100.4180.020 |
Salaries and Wages |
$12,095.00 |
$973.00 |
$13,068.00 |
|
|
Sheriff’s Department |
|
|
|
|
100.4310.000 |
Salaries and Wages |
$1,381,883.00 |
$36,040.00 |
$1,417,923.00 |
|
|
Emergency Communications |
|
|
|
|
100.4325.000 |
Salaries and Wages |
$388,290.00 |
$275.00 |
$388,565.00 |
|
|
Emergency Medical Services |
|
|
|
|
100.4370.000 |
Salaries and Wages |
$1,120,169.00 |
$1,755.00 |
$1,121,924.00 |
|
|
Contingency |
|
|
|
|
100.9910.100 |
Leave Cost |
$50,903.00 |
$(39,043.00) |
$11,860.00 |
|
|
Totals |
$2,953,340.00 |
$00.00 |
$2,953,340.00 |
This budget amendment is justified as follows:
To transfer funds from leave contingency for
employees’ payoff for vacation, comp. time and holiday leave.
This will result in a net increase of $00.00 in the
expenditures and other financial use to the County’s annual budget. To provide the additional revenue for the
above, the following revenues will increase.
These revenues have already been received or are verified they will be
received in this fiscal year.
Proposed Resolution
– Sauratown Vol. Fire Department Tax Exempt Loan Certification
Clerk Darlene Bullins presented a Proposed Resolution “Certificate of Clerk Re
Approval of Tax-Exempt Loan to Volunteer Fire Department by Board of Commissioners”
submitted from Fire Chief James Griffin, Sauratown Vol. Fire Department for the Board’s
consideration. Clerk Bullins noted the certificate must be approved by the Board of
Commissioners in order for Sauratown Vol. Fire Department to purchase a 2008 Ford F550
Brush Truck, which was approved at the December 8, 2008 Board of Commissioners’ meeting.
The certificate has been reviewed and approved by County Attorney Edward Powell.
Sheriff’s
Department – Space Issues
County Manager Bryan Steen requested approval for the following reassignment of
county office space:
· Former Planning/Zoning Office and Environmental Health Offices be assigned to the Sheriff’s Department (offices adjoin space currently occupied by the Sheriff’s Department)
· Former Sheriff’s Department Office space used for Explorer meetings be assigned to Forsyth Tech. Community College (office space adjoins space currently occupied by Forsyth Tech and will keep classes close to each other)
Commissioner Smith moved to approve the
Consent Agenda as submitted.
Vice Chairman Walker seconded and the motion carried unanimously.
GENERAL
GOVERNMENT – GOVERNING BODY – INFORMATION AGENDA
Time Warner Cable
– Internet Access Update
Director Buck Yarborough, Government and Public Affairs, present the following
update:
· All capital investments in cable plants have no guarantee of returns
· Unlike telephone utilities, wireless providers, and satellite companies who require a contract, Time Warner does not require a contract
· Customers are allowed to cancel within the first thirty days with a full refund
· All telephone payers contribute to the universal service fund (established by the federal government) which provides additional subsidies to telephone companies to offset cost for providing service to rural customers, Time Warner does not receive any additional subsidies for providing cable to rural customers.
· Per the current Stokes County Cable Ordinance, cable must be provided to areas with 20 structures per cable mile
· County Ordinance also provides cost sharing for areas that don’t meet the 20 structures per cable mile
· Information provided by Tax Administration regarding the estimated number of structures in the County indicates that Time Warner can serve (does not mean TW does) 82% of Stokes County residents
· If cable passes by a structure, all services are available
· Time Warner will send out a designated crew to see if cable can be placed in a particular area
· Time Warner looks at all possible options to try to serve the resident
· Time Warner wants to serve as many customers as possible
The Board discussed the need for high-speed internet service throughout the entire
County.
Vice Chairman Walker noted high-speed internet is a critical component of Economic
Development for home businesses as well as current and future businesses in Stokes County.
Chairman Inman, on behalf of the Board, expressed the Board’s appreciation to
Mr. Yarborough for his update.
County Manager Steen noted that a representative from Embarq would be presenting an
update at the next meeting.
Director Yarborough reiterated that Time Warner would be happy to assess any area for
cable.
Tax
Administration – 2009 Revaluation Update
Tax Administrator Jake
Oakley presented the following 2009 Revaluation Update:
·
Revaluation notices will be mailed to property
owners in February 2009
·
Revaluation starts with the 2005 values
·
Sales are analyzed for the years of 2005, 2006,
2007, and 2008
·
Steady decrease in sales ratio since 2005, which
shows that houses and land are selling for more than what they were valued for
in 2005
·
As of December 31, 2008, the sales ratio is 88.6%
·
Homes in 2008 slowed down in sales, but showed a
steady increase of approximately 1.9%
·
Projected to see an overall county average of 10%
increase in values based on sales data received throughout the County
·
Estimated 29,300 parcels in the County with 410
neighborhoods which were all analyzed
·
Not every neighborhood will increase 10%, some
could be less and some could be more
·
Larger
tracts will see more than a 10% increase due to the adjustment made by the
county in size factor tables based on the market sales
·
There are no indications that the market in Stokes
County has lost value
·
2.8% growth in the county indicates a steady,
healthy growth
·
There was no significant increase in foreclosures
during 2008, even with the declining economy
·
Department of Revenue will not allow foreclosures
and bankruptcies to be used in valid sales which is what determines the market
·
Tax Department will be happy to discuss Revaluation
values with any property owner
·
Tax Department will try to resolve as many disputes
as possible
·
If the County falls below 90% market value based on
sales ratio, public utilities can pay that percent which could result in
approximately $440,000 less in taxes next year
·
Board of E&R Meetings will be scheduled for
April and May
The Board discussed the upcoming Revaluation
with Tax Administrator Oakley.
Tax Administrator Oakley reiterated that the Tax Department will be
happy to discuss
Revaluation values with any property owner and that the county’s
overall estimated
Revaluation average should be approximately 10%.
Update –
Manager and Board of Commissioners
County Manager Bryan
Steen noted that the County had received information from
Hanes Mill Landfill that operating hours will be changing effective
February 16, 2009.
Public Works Director
Mark Delehant suggested closing the Greenbox Sites at
12:00 noon on Saturdays in order to eliminate large collections of
trash with nowhere to
dispose of it. Manager Steen
stated the County would be contacting Hanes Mill Landfill for
further information and will keep the Board updated.
Manager Steen informed
the Board that the recent repairs made to the heating/cooling
system in the Administrative Building have proven to be very
profitable. (Approximately
54,000 fewer Kilowatts used in 2008 than 2007 and approximately more
that 50% reduction
in propane used in 2008 than 2007)
Update –
Meadows Property
County Manager Bryan
Steen noted the following update regarding the Meadows
Property:
·
NCDOT officials will not specify a timeline
regarding site cleanup
·
Meeting with NCDOT officials this week regarding
site cleanup
·
Proposed Planning Grant for water and sewer to the Meadows Site will be on the next
agenda
Vice Chairman Walker requested the item be on
the January 26th Discussion Agenda.
Vice Chairman Walker expressed concerns regarding the progress of this
site relating to a
community college as well as economic development in the County.
GENERAL
GOVERNMENT – GOVERNING BODY – DISCUSSION AGENDA
Potential
Revisions to Financial Model to Accommodate Revised School’s Needs
President Doug Carter,
DEC & Associates, discussed the following third update
regarding the County’s Capital Needs Funding Plan:
(Funding resources were calculated from the retirement of current debt
and assumptions of lottery proceeds of $800,000 (2008) from the State)
·
Review of Debt capacity available discussed in
detail at the November 24th
meeting:
o
Alternative
1
§ $22.1 mm for Nancy
Reynolds and New Elementary School
§ One issue in
Spring 2009
§ No new resources
o
Alternative
2
§ $40.3 mm for
School Needs and Community College
§ Three issues –
Spring 2009 (school needs), Spring 2011 (schools needs), Spring 2012 (community
college)
§ 3 cents equivalent
resources needed
o
Alternative
3
§ $61.3 mm for all
schools needs and community college
§ Three issues –
Spring 2009 (schools needs), Spring 2011 (school needs), Spring 2012 (community
college)
§ 7.5 cents
equivalent resources needed
·
Updated Scenarios concerning Alternative 1
o
Version
4a
§ $25.72 mm - Nancy
Reynolds ($10.285 mm), New elementary school planning costs ($2.3 mm), New
elementary school ($13.135 mm)
§ Two issues –
Spring 2009 (Nancy Reynolds and Planning Costs), Spring 2010 (New elementary
school)
§ .5 cents equivalent
resources needed due to increased projected costs
o
Version
4b
§ $25.72 mm - Nancy
Reynolds ($10.285 mm), New elementary school planning costs ($2.3 mm), New
elementary school
($13.135 mm)
§ Two issues –
Spring 2009 (Nancy Reynolds and Planning Costs), Spring 2013 (New elementary
school)
§ No new resources
needed
o
Version
4c
§ $25.72 mm for
Nancy Reynolds ($10.285 mm), New elementary school planning costs ($2.3 mm),
New elementary school
($13.135 mm)
§ One issue – Spring
2009 (Nancy Reynolds, elementary school planning and new elementary school)
§ 1 cent equivalent
resources needed
The Board discussed the updated scenarios with
Mr. Carter.
Commissioner Carroll noted that sales tax
revenue and lottery funding can’t be used
for a community college.
Commissioner Lankford
confirmed with Mr. Carter that any interruption to the
designated revenue streams would and could have an effect on the
financial model.
Vice Chairman Walker
confirmed with Mr. Carter that the Board needs to determine
what they want to do, allocate the funding for those projects, and
decide what type of financing
will be most effective.
Mr. Carter also noted
the following:
·
Stressed the importance of designating a specific
priority and timing for each project
·
Noted that assumptions were made pertaining to the
timing of each project in the proposed model
·
With actual dates, a new model could provide more
detailed information pertaining to the debt
·
Preliminary discussion with Local Government
Commission and potential lenders indicates no issues with mid range amounts for
financing
·
Feel very comfortable with proceeding with mid
range amounts for financing
Chairman Inman noted that the Board of
Education is requesting what the Board of
Commissioners is willing to commit in order to proceed with the top
priorities and that students
will not be allowed at Nancy Reynolds Elementary School in the fall of
2009.
Commissioner Carroll confirmed with Mr. Carter
that there are potential lenders and
there is a market with reasonable rates available.
Commissioner Carroll
noted:
·
Ready to proceed with allocating funding for Nancy
Reynolds once additional architectural information is received which will
determine funding
·
Have no issues with allocating funding for planning
costs for new elementary school
·
Concerned about the current economy on this year’s
upcoming county budget
·
Desire to hold off any further allocations until
after the State adopts a budget
·
Reiterated that he is ready to vote on funding for
Nancy Reynolds as soon as the Board of Education decides on what will be done
Vice Chairman Walker noted:
·
Agrees with Commissioner Carroll regarding Nancy
Reynolds and planning costs for new elementary school
·
Would like to approve funding for the purchase of
the Kiser property for the new elementary school
·
Would like to further discuss planning for a
community college in the County
Commissioner Smith noted:
·
Agrees to proceed with funding for Nancy Reynolds
and planning costs for new elementary school and would also like to purchase
land for a new elementary school
·
It is the duty of the Board of Commissioners along
with the Board of Education to provide a safe place for all Stokes County
children to attend school
Commissioner Lankford noted:
·
Committed to the Nancy Reynolds project once the
Board of Education has made their final decision and for planning costs for a
new elementary school
·
Must be very cautious with timing of projects
·
Must do everything we can regarding capital needs
and still provide the citizens of Stokes County our present level of services
Chairman Inman
expressed the Board’s appreciation to Mr. Carter for his presentation.
Tax
Administrative Report – December 2008
Tax Administrator Jake Oakley presented the
following informational data:
|
Fiscal
Year 2008-09 |
Budget Amt |
Collected
Amt |
Over |
Under |
|
|
|
|
Budget |
Budget |
|
County
Regular & Motor Vehicles |
$(19,053,616.00) |
$13,372,018.31 |
|
$5,681,597.69 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Prior
Taxes 1991-2007 Tax Years |
|
|
|
|
|
County
Regular & Motor Vehicles |
$ 700,000.00 |
$ 469,871.55 |
|
$ 230,128.45 |
|
EMS
Collections |
|
|
|
|
|
Total
Collected (12-01/12-31-08) |
$ 6,221.15 |
|
|
|
|
Total
Collected (7-01-08/6-30-09) |
$ 33,502.61 |
|
|
|
|
Delinquent
accounts received from EMS (12-01/12-31, 2008) = none |
|
|
|
|
|
Personal
Property Discovery Report |
# of |
Total |
Taxes |
|
Audit
Dates |
Accts |
Value |
Due |
|
12-01-08/12-31-08 |
none |
$00.00 |
$00.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Business
Personal Property Discovery Report |
# of |
Total |
Taxes |
|
Audit
Dates |
Accts |
Value |
Due |
|
12-01-08/12-31-08 |
none |
$00.00 |
$00.00 |
|
Motor
Vehicle Release Report |
Accounts |
Total Accounts |
|
12-01-08/12-31-08 |
47 |
$1,549.16 |
|
|
|
|
|
Motor
Vehicle Refund Report |
Accounts |
Total Accounts |
|
12-01-08/12-31-08 |
6 |
$216.26 |
|
|
|
|
|
Number
billed for November 2008 |
4294 |
|
|
Garnishment Totals |
|
|
|
|
Totals |
Original
Levy |
|
Month |
Accounts |
Amount
|
|
F/Y
07-08 (July-June) |
1547 |
$585,042.84 |
|
F/Y
08-09 (July-Nov.) |
900 |
$286,226.42 |
|
December
2008 |
98 |
$14,295.80 |
|
Totals |
2545 |
$885,565.06 |
|
Real
and Personal Property Releases Less |
|
|
|
than
$100–December- Per NCGS105-381 (b) |
|
|
|
Barry Dunmon |
04A2004007426 |
$41.79 |
|
|
05A2005007444 |
$37.14 |
|
Total Amount |
|
$78.93 |
|
Real
and Personal Property Refunds Less |
|
|
|
than
$100–December- Per NCGS105-381 (b) |
|
|
|
William Martin |
08A8407.05 |
$8.46 |
|
|
08A8407.05 |
$.92 |
|
Totals |
|
$9.38 |
Tax Administrator Oakley presented the
following Real and Personal Property Release
which is more than $100 for the Board’s consideration:
|
Real
and Personal Property Releases More |
|
|
|
|
than
$100 –December- Per NCGS 105-381 (b) |
|
|
|
|
|
Account |
Amount |
|
|
Name |
Number |
|
Reasons |
|
Deann
Hawkins |
08A65500.08 |
$112.36 |
Double
listed |
|
|
Total |
$112.36 |
|
Tax Administrator
Oakley presented the following EMS Delinquent Release Report
(December 2008) for the Board’s consideration:
|
|
Call |
|
|
|
Name |
Number |
Amount |
Reason |
|
Robert
G. Adams |
105133 |
$
493.00 |
Bankruptcy |
|
Floyd
Bruner |
702325 |
$
625.00 |
Estate
Closed |
|
William
J. Nickelston |
601231 |
$
697.00 |
Deceased-no
estate |
|
William
J. Nickelston |
603615 |
$
625.00 |
Deceased-no
estate |
|
William
J. Nickelston |
700528 |
$
565.00 |
Deceased-no
estate |
|
William
J. Nickelston |
700836 |
$ 715.00
|
Deceased-no
estate |
|
William
J. Nickelston |
704909 |
$
685.00 |
Deceased-no
estate |
|
William
J. Nickelston |
704926 |
$
685.00 |
Deceased-no
estate |
|
William
J. Nickelston |
800200 |
$
637.00 |
Deceased-no
estate |
|
William
J. Nickelston |
800418 |
$
673.00 |
Deceased-no
estate |
|
Total |
|
$6,400.00 |
|
Tax Administrator
Oakley noted that the submitted EMS Delinquent Accounts can’t
be collected.
The Board expressed
their appreciation to Tax Administrator Oakley and his staff for
their continued dedication and hard work.
Tax Administrator
Oakley noted that collections for all utilities have been received and
as of 12-31-08, the County has collected $235,781.16 more that last
year at the same time.
Late Application for Elderly Exemption for
2008
Tax Administrator Jake Oakley
presented the following Late Application for Elderly
Exemption for 2008
from Doris Mullins Fritts:
·
Parcel
consists of 1.46 acres of land and a dwelling with an assigned tax value of
$106,400
·
Ms.
Fritts is requesting acceptance of a late application for the year of 2008
·
Due to
a lack of understanding of the how the exemption process works, Tax
Administration recommends approval by the Board of the late application for
calendar year 2008 only for Ms. Fritts
The Board discussed the late application request with Tax Administrator
Oakley.
Chairman Inman directed the Clerk to place the Releases more than $100
(Real/Personal),
EMS Delinquent Release Report (December 2008), and Late Application
for Elderly
Exemption for 2008 on the January 26th Consent Agenda.
Proposed 2009 Schedules of Values, Personal
Property, Mobile Homes, Motor Vehicles
Tax Administrator Jake Oakley
discussed the following documents with a request for
approval:
·
2009
Department of Revenue Cost Index and Depreciation Schedules (Business Personal
Property)
·
2009
Pricing Guidelines for Personal Property
·
2009
Single Wide Mobile Home Pricing Guidelines (Schedules developed from Marshall
and Swift)
Tax Administrator Oakley noted the following:
·
Personal
Property Schedule of Values is not required for Board approval by the State,
but recommended by Tax Administrator in order for the Board to know what
personal property is being valued at
·
Department
of Revenue Cost Index and Depreciation Schedules have always been used by the
Tax Department
·
Would
like to move the item to the Action Agenda in order to be ready once listing
period is over January 31, 2009
The Board discussed the documents submitted by Tax Administrator
Oakley.
Chairman Inman, with full consent of the Board, directed the Clerk to
place the item
on today’s Action
Agenda.
Proposed 2009 Board of Equalization and
Review Schedule
Tax Administrator Oakley presented
the following dates for consideration for
Board of
Equalization and Review meetings:
|
Date |
Day |
Time |
|
April
6 |
Monday |
2:00-6:00
pm |
|
April
7 |
Tuesday |
10:00-1:00
pm |
|
April
15 |
Wednesday |
10:00-1:00
pm |
|
April
21 |
Tuesday |
2:00-6:00
pm |
|
April
23 |
Thursday |
5:00-8:00
pm |
|
April
30 |
Thursday |
2:00-6:00
pm |
|
May
5 |
Tuesday |
5:00-8:00
pm |
|
May
12 |
Tuesday |
2:00-6:00
pm |
|
May
14 |
Thursday |
5:00-8:00
pm |
|
May
19 |
Tuesday |
5:00-8:00
pm |
The Board discussed
the submitted dates for E&R meetings and possible conflicts.
Tax Administrator
Oakley noted that per NCGS 105.322(a), the Board of
Commissioners can create a special Board by the first Monday in March
instead of the Board of
Commissioners convening as the Board of E&R.
Tax Administrator
Oakley also noted that per NCGS 105.322(f), the Board must
advertise the E&R Meeting Schedule three consecutive weeks,
schedule will be advertised
March 12th, 19th, and 26th.
The Board agreed on
the following dates:
|
Date |
Day |
Time |
|
April 6 |
Monday |
2:00-6:00 pm |
|
April 7 |
Tuesday |
3:00-6:00 pm |
|
April 15 |
Wednesday |
10:00-1:00 pm |
|
April 20 |
Monday |
2:00-6:00 pm |
|
April 23 |
Thursday |
5:00-8:00 pm |
|
April 30 |
Thursday |
2:00-6:00 pm |
|
May 5 |
Tuesday |
5:00-8:00 pm |
|
May 12 |
Tuesday |
2:00-6:00 pm |
|
May 14 |
Thursday |
10:00-1:00 pm |
|
May 19 |
Tuesday |
5:00-8:00 pm |
Vice Chairman Walker
requested if the advertisement must state the start and closing
time of the E&R meeting. Tax
Administrator Oakley noted that he would confirm that with
State.
Chairman Inman, with
full consent of the Board, directed the Clerk to place the item
on today’s Action Agenda.
Proposed 2008
Aerial GIS Photos
Tax Administrator Jake
Oakley presented the proposed 2008 Aerial GIS Photos and
requested approval for the following:
·
Final approval of the new 2008 Digital Aerial
Photography Maps, including incorporation into the Stokes County Website for
public viewing
·
Closure to the Surdex Orthro Imagery Photography
contract, including a final payment in the amount of $57,500
Tax Administrator Oakley noted the following:
·
Surdex Corporation has completed the Aerial
Photography Mapping Project
·
Mapping/GIS Department has reviewed the Aerial
Photographs and is fully satisfied that all goods and services have been
delivered
·
Grant from the State in the amount of $9,457.44 was
awarded to Stokes County for the Mapping Project
·
Total County E911 Funding cost = $88,642.57
·
Request to move the item to the Action Agenda in
order to incorporate the Aerial Maps into the Stokes County Website
The Board reviewed selected maps provided by
the Mapping Department and discussed
2008 Digital Aerial Photography Maps.
Chairman Inman, with full consent of the
Board, directed the Clerk to place the item
on today’s Action Agenda.
Proposed
Connection Fees for the Danbury Water and the Stokes County Regional Sewer
System
Public Works Director
Mark Delehant requested the Board establish new rates for
Water and Sewer Connection Fees.
Director Delehant presented the following
information:
·
Since assuming operation responsibility for the
Danbury Water System, I have discovered the fees for connection to be
insufficient to cover the cost incurred for a connection
·
Recommending the County establish a new rate that
covers the cost of installation and impact that additional customers have on
the systems
·
Recommending also that the County approve a
provision that allows for a charge of cost plus 15% to cover any contractor’s
fee that exceeds our fee
·
Water Tap in Winston Salem ranges from $2900 to
$5400 with Sewer Tap being more expensive
·
Water Tap in King ranges from $1425 to $2425 with
Sewer Tap being more expensive
·
Water and Sewer Tap in Walnut Cove is $980 each, Town
has own staff who can perform the services
Director Delehant presented the following
recommendation:
|
|
Year
Fee |
Fee |
Recommendation |
|
|
Established |
|
|
|
Water
Tap |
2005 |
$950.00 |
$
1,500.00 |
|
Sewer
Tap |
1993 |
$ 50.00 |
$
1,500.00 |
The Board discussed
Director Delehant’s recommendation.
Manager Bryan Steen
noted that the County would approve all water and sewer
line extensions.
Chairman Inman
directed the Clerk to place the item on the January 26th Action
Agenda.
Economic
Development in Stokes County – Discussion
Vice Chairman Walker
noted the following regarding Economic Development in
Stokes County:
·
Top three priorities while campaigning in the fall
– School construction needs, Community college campus, and Economic Development
·
Feels the public needs to know what the progress is
on each project
·
Financial Advisor noted that economic development
is vital to the County’s financial status
·
Economic Development needs to be at the top of the
list for discussion at the Goals Planning Session
·
Need economic development to keep from raising
taxes
·
Would like for the Chairman of the Economic
Development Commission (EDC) to present an update to the Board of Commissioners
at the January 26th meeting
·
Noted the need for the County to provide adequate
funding to create jobs in Stokes County
Commissioner Smith would also like to hear
from the EDC Chairman.
Commissioners Lankford and Carroll would like
to continue the discussion at the
upcoming Goals Planning Session.
Commissioner Carroll noted that a key element missing
regarding Economic Development in Stokes County is the Director and it
is very crucial that
the position is filled as soon as possible.
Goals
Planning Session – Schedule
Chairman Inman
requested available dates for upcoming Goals Planning Session.
The Board discussed
possible dates and agreed on the following dates:
·
Tuesday, January 27, 2009 at 1:00 pm
·
Wednesday, February 4, 2009 at 1:00 pm
Proposed
Pinnacle EMS Station – Chestnut Grove Road
Commissioner Smith noted
the following:
·
Proposed Pinnacle EMS Station was approved on June
23, 2008 when the County’s fiscal year budget was adopted
·
Need to know “Where are we at”, “What is next?”,
and “What can we as a Board do to accelerate this project?”
·
Will metal building be sufficient for this project?
·
Need to build a structure for the future
·
Need to get started with rezoning the land
County Manager Bryan Steen noted the
following:
·
County has been reviewing the metal building with
staff
·
Have given new floor plan requirements to
Commissioner Lankford to take back to a company who specializes in metal
buildings
·
Directed EMS Director Monty Stevens arranged a
simulation regarding three trucks in the proposed 40’x40’ bay area
·
Rezoning will be on the February Planning Agenda
·
Local Government Commission has stated that the
County is in financial state to go forward with the project, pay for the
expenditures and then proceed with financing to reimburse the County for the
expenditures which will prevent any delays in proceeding with the project
·
Need for 12 ft bay doors instead of 10 ft doors
EMS Director Monty Stevens noted the
following:
·
Have met with EMS staff to discuss the department’s
needs
·
Simulation regarding three trucks in the 40’x40’
bay area would be extremely tight, basically the trucks would have to be pulled
out of the bay area in order to remove the stretchers, do the daily unit check
off and daily cleaning of the vehicle
·
Eliminating the third truck would allow for more
space
·
Employees must inventory the truck daily when shift
changes
·
Feels 40’x40’ bay area would not work for two
trucks due to limited space, extremely tight for the new larger models (County
currently has three units)
·
With two trucks, need 40’x50’ bay area
·
With three trucks, need 40’x60’ bay area
·
Keeping the third truck (spare) would save
employees’ time and county resources (would not have to come to Danbury to
switch trucks)
·
No issues with 40’x40’ living space which is
adequate
·
Need to build for the future
The Board discussed the concerns expressed by
EMS Director Stevens and Manager
Steen.
Commissioner Lankford
noted the two changes that had already been requested were
for 12 ft doors and to extend the width to 45’, but had no problems
with obtaining the
additional quotes.
Vice Chairman Walker
noted the need to do what it takes to do it right.
Commissioner Carroll
noted that the third truck (spare) could be stationed outside for
now.
Commissioner Smith
noted the need for a quote for 40’x40 living space, 40’x60’ bay
area with 12 ft doors.
Chairman Inman
directed the Clerk to place the item on the January 26th Discussion
Agenda.
GENERAL
GOVERNMENT – GOVERNING BODY – ACTION AGENDA
Proposed 2009 Schedules of Values, Personal
Property, Mobile Homes, Motor Vehicles
Chairman Inman entertained a motion.
Vice Chairman Walker moved to
approve the following Proposed 2009 Schedules of
Values, Personal
Property, Mobile Homes, and Motor Vehicles as submitted by Tax
Administrator Jake
Oakley:
·
2009
Department of Revenue Cost Index and Depreciation Schedules (Business Personal
Property)
·
2009
Pricing Guidelines for Personal Property
·
2009
Single Wide Mobile Home Pricing Guidelines (Marshall and Swift)
Commissioner Smith seconded and the motion carried unanimously.
Proposed 2009 Board of Equalization and
Review Schedule
Chairman Inman entertained a motion.
Commissioner Lankford moved to approve the following E&R Schedule:
|
Date |
Day |
Time |
|
April 6 |
Monday |
2:00-6:00 pm |
|
April 7 |
Tuesday |
3:00-6:00 pm |
|
April 15 |
Wednesday |
10:00-1:00 pm |
|
April 20 |
Monday |
2:00-6:00 pm |
|
April 23 |
Thursday |
5:00-8:00 pm |
|
April 30 |
Thursday |
2:00-6:00 pm |
|
May 5 |
Tuesday |
5:00-8:00 pm |
|
May 12 |
Tuesday |
2:00-6:00 pm |
|
May 14 |
Thursday |
10:00-1:00 pm |
|
May 19 |
Tuesday |
5:00-8:00 pm |
Vice Chairman Walker
seconded and the motion carried unanimously.
Proposed 2008
Aerial GIS Photos
Chairman Inman entertained a motion.
Commissioner Smith moved to approve the following requests as submitted
by Tax
Administrator Jake
Oakley:
·
Final approval of the new 2008 Digital Aerial
Photography Maps, including incorporation into the Stokes County Website for
public viewing
·
Closure to the Surdex Orthro Imagery Photography
contract, including a final payment in the amount of $57,500.00
Vice Chairman Walker seconded and the motion carried unanimously.
Closed
Session
Chairman Inman entertained a motion to enter
into closed session for the following:
· 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 Lankford moved to enter into
closed session for the following:
· 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 Walker seconded and the motion carried unanimously.
The Board returned to the open session of the
January 12th meeting
Economic
Development
Chairman Inman
entertained a motion.
Vice Chairman Walker
moved to accept the County Manager and Economic
Development Commission Chairman’s recommendation to make a formal offer to the
applicant in Caldwell County for the position as Economic Development
Director with a
starting annual salary of $69,000.00.
Commissioner Carroll seconded and the motion carried
(3-2) with Chairman Inman and Commissioner Lankford voting against the
motion.
Adjournment
There being no further business to come before
the Board, Chairman Inman entertained
a motion to adjourn the meeting.
Commissioner Lankford moved to adjourn the
meeting. Vice Chairman Walker
seconded and the motion carried unanimously.
_________________________
_____________________________
Darlene M.
Bullins
J. Leon Inman
Clerk to the
Board Chairman