) STOKES COUNTY GOVERNMENT
COUNTY OF STOKES ) DANBURY, NORTH CAROLINA
) JANUARY 26, 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 (Administration Building) located in Danbury, North Carolina
on Monday,
January 26, 2009 at 6:00 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
Public
Works Director Mark Delehant
Emergency Medical
Services Director Monty Stevens
Chairman J. Leon Inman called the meeting to
order.
Commissioner Carroll 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 26, 2009
Agenda.
Commissioner Carroll
requested to add the following to the Discussion Agenda:
·
School Facility Needs
County Manager Bryan Steen requested to add a
Closed Session regarding attorney
client privileges.
Vice Chairman Walker
requested to add a Closed Session regarding personnel.
The Board unanimously
agreed to the requests from Commissioner Carroll,
Vice Chairman Walker, and
Manager Steen.
Vice Chairman Walker
moved to approve the January 26, 2009 Agenda as amended.
Commissioner Smith seconded and the motion carried unanimously.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
The following spoke during public comments:
Principal Rusty
Hall
Nancy Reynolds Elementary School
Re: Nancy Reynolds
Principal Hall expressed concerns with the challenges that face the
faculty and staff of Nancy Reynolds Elementary School. Principal Hall noted that staff must move
over 85 years of materials at the close of this school year (June 09) into PODS
at a different location and be ready to start the new school year by August
09. Principal Hall requested the Board
of Commissioners make a decision on giving the Board of Education the necessary
funding for
the Nancy Reynolds Project.
Principal David
Hicks
Mount Olive Elementary School
Re: School Funding
Principal Hicks requested the Board of Commissioners support the
funding for the building projects requested by the Board of Education. Principal Hicks noted the importance of the
Nancy Reynolds Project, New Elementary School in Yadkin Township, and the
renovation project at Southeastern Middle School. Principal Hicks also noted the safety issues
that face Mount Olive Elementary and King Elementary Schools due to overcrowding
with 261 students at Mount Olive who must attend school in mobile units. Principal Hicks noted the following
issues: inadequate lunchroom space,
inadequate bathrooms, inadequate gym, and safety concerns with so many children
in mobile units. Principal Hicks requested the Board of Commissioners approve
funding for the requested school projects.
Shannon Whitt
Mount Olive Elementary School Teacher
Re: School Funding
Ms. Whitt noted the following issues regarding mobile classrooms: safety-mobile units too close to the woods,
weather conditions cause slippery steps which cause children to get hurt,
blowing rain into classroom when door is opened, and children getting wet going
to and from the mobile units. Ms. Whitt
also noted inadequate space in the school gym.
Ms. Whitt requested the Board of Commissioners approve funding for the
requested school projects.
Principal
Shannon Boles
King Elementary School
Re: School Funding
Principal Boles expressed concerns regarding overcrowding at King
Elementary School, inadequate restrooms, inadequate cafeteria space, and
inadequate media center. Principal Boles
noted that there had been no new construction at King Elementary School in the
past 35 years. Principal Boles noted the safety issues regarding mobile units
and open classrooms in “A” Building.
Principal Boles requested any assistance from the Board of Commissioners
regarding the overcrowding and safety issues at King Elementary School.
Principal Jo
Beth Clark
Southeastern Middle School
Re: School Funding
Principal Clark spoke on behalf of the students and faculty at
Southeastern Middle School.
Principal Clark expressed concerns regarding the health and safety
issues at Southeastern
Middle School. Principal Clark
noted that 300 students housed in one building must share one set of bathrooms. Principal Clark requested the Board of
Commissioners keep Southeastern Middle School in their discussions of school
facility needs.
Paula Hall
President of Mount Olive Parent and Teacher Association
Re: School Funding
Ms. Hall expressed her support regarding updating school facilities
across the entire county in order to provide a safe environment and high
quality education for all children in Stokes County. Ms. Hall requested the Board of Commissioners
not lose sight of the issues and concerns at all the facilities in the county.
Ms. Hall expressed concerns regarding inadequate cafeteria space, children in
mobile units, and safety issues involving mobile units. Ms. Hall noted that some children have 4 of their
6 years at Mount Olive in mobile units.
Ms. Hall requested the Board of Commissioners support a new elementary
school in the Yadkin Township.
Jennifer Martin
Stokes County Citizen
Re: School Funding
Ms. Martin spoke on behalf of Southeastern Middle School. Ms. Martin discussed safety issues, poorly
insulated classrooms, inadequate restrooms, and the need to allocate funding
for Southeastern Middle School. Ms.
Martin urged the Board of Education and Board of Commissioners to allocate
funding which will improve student test scores. Ms. Martin concluded that all students deserve
the right to receive a good education no matter what part of the County they
live in.
CONSENT AGENDA
Chairman Inman entertained a motion to approve
or amend the following items
on the Consent Agenda:
Minutes
School Capital
Outlay and Capital Reserve Fund – Budget Amendment #44
Finance Director Julia Edwards
submitted Budget Ordinance Amendment #44.
To amend the General Fund, the expenditures are to
be changed as follows:
|
|
|
Current |
|
|
|
Account |
Account |
Budgeted |
Increase |
As |
|
Number |
Description |
Amount |
(Decrease) |
Amended |
|
|
School Capital Outlay
& Capital Reserve Fund |
|
|
|
|
212.5912.004 |
Public School
Capital-Lottery |
$00.00 |
$48,174.00 |
$48,174.00 |
|
212.5912.001 |
Public School Capital –ADM |
$298,315.00 |
$11,817.00 |
$310,132.00 |
|
212.5912.002 |
Public School Capital- ADM Match |
$52,500.00 |
$28,877.00 |
$81,377.00 |
|
|
Totals |
$350,815.00 |
$88,868.00 |
$439,683.00 |
This budget amendment is justified as follows:
To re-appropriate Lottery funding and ADM funding
with match for projects that have already been approved.
Commissioner Carroll confirmed with Finance Director
Edwards that this funding had already been approved in a prior budget with
projects not being completed and funding is being transferred to the 2008-09
budget.
This will result in a net increase of $88,868.00 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 |
|
|
School Capital Outlay & Capital Reserve Fund |
|
|
|
|
212.3328.001 |
Public School
Capital-Lottery |
$00.00 |
$48,174.00 |
$48,174.00 |
|
212.3328.000 |
Public School Capital - ADM |
$298,315.00 |
$11,817.00 |
$310,132.00 |
|
212.3991.000 |
Fund Balance |
$350,000.00 |
$28,877.00 |
$378,877.00 |
|
|
Totals |
$648,315.00 |
$88,868.00 |
$737,183.00 |
Social Services –
Budget Amendment #45
Finance Director Julia Edwards
submitted Budget Ordinance Amendment #45.
To amend the General Fund, the expenditures are to
be changed as follows:
|
|
|
Current |
|
|
|
Account |
Account |
Budgeted |
Increase |
As |
|
Number |
Description |
Amount |
(Decrease) |
Amended |
|
|
Social Services |
|
|
|
|
100.5480.000 |
Crisis Intervention |
$117,034.00 |
$31,998.00 |
$149,032.00 |
|
|
Totals |
$117,034.00 |
$31,998.00 |
$149,032.00 |
This budget amendment is justified as follows:
To appropriate additional funding for Crisis
Intervention. Crisis Intervention
Funding is 100% Federal Funding.
This will result in a net increase of $31,998.00 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 |
|
100.3301.202 |
Crisis Intervention |
$1,996,785.00 |
$31,998.00 |
$2,028,783.00 |
|
|
Totals |
$1,996,785.00 |
$31,998.00 |
$2,028,783.00 |
Health Department
– Budget Amendment #46
Finance Director Julia Edwards
submitted Budget Ordinance Amendment #46.
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 |
$11,180.00 |
$2,000.00 |
$13,180.00 |
|
100.5100.370 |
Advertising |
$950.00 |
$400.00 |
$1,350.00 |
|
100.5100.180 |
Professional Services |
$100,000.00 |
$675.00 |
$100,675.00 |
|
100.5100.230 |
Medical Supplies |
$110,250.00 |
$2,815.00 |
$113,065.00 |
|
|
Totals |
$222,380.00 |
$5,890.00 |
$228,270.00 |
This budget amendment is justified as follows:
The Health Department was awarded additional funding
for the FY 08-09 for outreach to help increase program participation. These funds will be used for additional
training for the Physician Extender, advertising Health Department services,
coverage of contract staff while Physician Extender is at training, and for
additional medical supplies to perform services.
This will result in a net increase of $5,890.00 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 |
|
100.3301.247 |
Family Planning X |
$133,773.00 |
$5,890.00 |
$139,663.00 |
|
|
Totals |
$133,773.00 |
$5,890.00 |
$139,663.00 |
Home Health –
Budget Amendment #47
Finance Director Julia Edwards
submitted Budget Ordinance Amendment #47.
To amend the General Fund, the expenditures are to
be changed as follows:
|
|
|
Current |
|
|
|
Account |
Account |
Budgeted |
Increase |
As |
|
Number |
Description |
Amount |
(Decrease) |
Amended |
|
|
Home Health |
|
|
|
|
100.5190.000 |
Salaries and Wages |
$332,637.00 |
$(60,000.00) |
$272,637.00 |
|
100.5190.180 |
Professional Services |
$145,000.00 |
$40,000.00 |
$185,000.00 |
|
100.5190.230 |
Medical Supplies |
$32,000.00 |
$20,000.00 |
$52,000.00 |
|
|
Totals |
$509,637.00 |
$00.00 |
$509,637.00 |
This budget amendment is justified as follows:
To transfer funds from Salaries and Wages to
Professional Services for contract pay for Physical Therapist and Occupational
Therapist needed by patients being served by Home Health. Funding will also be used to cover medical
supplies due to patient caseload.
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.
Sheriff’s
Department – Budget Amendment #48
Finance Director Julia Edwards
submitted Budget Ordinance Amendment #48.
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 |
|
|
|
|
100.4310.511 |
Equipment – Non Capital |
$20,027.00 |
$2,237.00 |
$22,264.00 |
|
|
Totals |
$20,027.00 |
$2,237.00 |
$22,264.00 |
This budget amendment is justified as follows:
To transfer funds to purchase disguised cell phone
battery audio transmitter, recorder with accessories, button camera with SME
High Gain Audio, Spare SME BSTCV950 Battery and P-1150 Pelican Case and Memory
Card for criminal investigations.
This will result in a net increase of $2,237.00 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 |
|
100.3301.411 |
Federal Fines/Forfeitures |
$41,681.00 |
$2,237.00 |
$43,918.00 |
|
|
Totals |
$41,681.00 |
$2,237.00 |
$43,918.00 |
Tax Administration
Report – December 2008
Tax Administrator Jake Oakley submitted the
following Real and Personal Property
Release (December 2008) which is more than $100 at the January 12th
meeting, with a
request for action by the Board of Commissioners at the January 26th
meeting:
|
Real
and Personal Property Releases More |
|
|
|
|
than
$100 –December- Per NCGS 105-381 (b) |
|
|
|
|
Name |
Account |
Amount |
|
|
Deann
Hawkins |
08A65500.08 |
$112.36 |
Double
listed |
|
|
Total |
$112.36 |
|
Tax Administrator Jake Oakley submitted the
following EMS Delinquent Release
Report (December 2008) at the January 12th meeting, with a
request for action by the Board of
Commissioners at the January 26th meeting:
|
|
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 Jake Oakley submitted the
Late Application for Elderly Exemption
for 2008 from Doris Mullins Fritts at the January 12th
meeting, with a request for action by the
Board of Commissioners at the January 26th meeting
(Tax Administrator Oakley recommended approval by the Board regarding
this late application)
Proposed 2010
Census Partner Proclamation – “It’s in Our Hands”
Clerk Darlene Bullins submitted the proposed Proclamation – 2010 Census
Partner Proclamation “It’s in Our Hands” for the Board’s consideration.
(A copy of the Proclamation will be retained by the Clerk to the Board)
Chairman Inman will be presenting the Proclamation at a Ceremony in Greensboro
on January 27th.
Commissioner Lankford moved to approve the
Consent Agenda as submitted.
Vice Chairman Walker seconded and the motion carried unanimously.
GENERAL
GOVERNMENT – GOVERNING BODY – INFORMATION AGENDA
Economic
Development Commission – Update
Chairman Worth Hampton, Economic Development Commission, presented the
following Economic Development Commission (EDC) update:
§ Discussed Economic Development in Stokes County with a Consultant
§ Proposal presented from Virginia Land Corporation and Duke Energy regarding a possible Industrial Park near KobeWieland – proceeding to look into providing water and sewer to the site
§ Exploring the possibility of obtaining water from the Town of Madison
§ Discussed the role Forsyth Tech could play in recruitment of new businesses with Forsyth Tech Stokes Director Ann Watts
§ Discussed Early College High School with Forsyth Tech Stokes Director Ann Watts
§ Had several discussions regarding the Angelo Economics Study
§ Revised the Rules of Procedures previously used by the Economic Development Corporation for the Board of Commissioners’ consideration
§ Discussing the role the current EDC can provide to Stokes County
§ Discussions with Stokes Core
Jane Priddy-Charleville is the Coordinator for the Tourism Committee
Chairman Hampton concluded that the EDC is ready to do whatever is needed to help
maintain current businesses within the County and to bring new Economic Development to
Stokes County.
The Board of Commissioners expressed their appreciation to Chairman Hampton and
EDC members.
Vice Chairman Walker noted the need for a county wide assessment of the Economic
Development needs and opportunities within the entire county and the need to set priorities – a
strategic plan for Stokes County.
Commissioner Carroll also noted the need for a strategic plan for the County.
Update –
Manager and Board of Commissioners
County Manager Bryan
Steen noted the following:
·
Mr. Alan Wood, will be assuming the role of
Economic Development Director on February 9th. Mr. Wood is the current Economic Development
Senior Planner for Caldwell County
Commissioner Smith introduced Brandon McCann,
the new executive director for the
Regional Tourism Initiative (RTI).
Mr. McCann expressed his appreciation for the
opportunity to serve as the new
RTI Executive Director. Mr.
McCann noted that he will be marketing the region with the goal
to bring tourism to Stokes County.
GENERAL
GOVERNMENT – GOVERNING BODY – DISCUSSION AGENDA
Proposed
Water and Sewer Planning Grant – Meadows Property
Public Works Director
Mark Delehant introduced Mr. Bill Lester, Hobbs and
UpChurch, who presented the following information regarding the
proposed Water and Sewer
Planning Grant for the Meadows property:
·
Planning Grant for water and sewer to the Meadows
property will be submitted to the Rural Center
·
Rural Center Planning Grants are usually 50/50
match
·
Rural Center has agreed to reduce the County’s
match to $5,000 by accessing old funds
·
Rural Center will provide $40,000 in grant funding
·
Grant will provide funding to develop the best plan
to provide water and sewer to the Meadows property with future hopes for
economic development in the area
·
Preliminary Engineering Report will review all
alternatives, possibilities, and will provide a document that can used for
other funding requests, provide information for environmental permitting, and
development of a capital improvement plan
·
Planning Grant will be considered and possibly
awarded in April 2009
·
The following documents must be reviewed and approved
by the Board of Commissioners in order to submit the application:
§ Certification by
Chief Elected Official
§ Memorandum of
Understanding between NC Rural Economic Development Center and Stokes County
§ Commitment of
other Funds Form (Capital Building Program between NC Rural Economic
Development Center and Stokes County)
§ Authorizing
Resolution by Governing Body of the Applicant
§ Resolution
Establishing Goal for Participation of Minority Business In Building
Construction Contracts
§ Certification of
Minority Business Participation
·
Grant is ready for submission once documentation is
approved and signed by the Board of Commissioners
·
Planning Grant is a great opportunity and it is the
right time to apply
·
Planning Grant will be able to be used for future
grant applications for funding for the actual water and sewer project
·
The project would probably not be ready for the
President’s Stimulus Package, but would be ready if additional funding became
available later
The Board discussed the Planning Grant with
Mr. Lester and the submission deadline.
Commissioner Carroll confirmed with Mr. Lester
that the County’s commitment is only
for the Planning Grant with a $5,000 county match and no further County
obligation.
Mr. Lester noted that any further grant programs would be a separate
and new grant
application.
Vice Chairman Walker
requested information regarding the amount of time it might
take to get water and sewer to the Meadows Property.
Mr. Lester noted it
would probably take approximately two years for completion of this
type of project.
Chairman Inman
confirmed with Mr. Lester that the submitted documents did not
have to be approved at tonight’s meeting and could be placed on the
February 9th Agenda.
Chairman Inman, with
full consent of the Board, directed the Clerk to place the item
on the February 9th Action Agenda.
Mr. Lester expressed
his appreciation for the opportunity to work with the County.
Meadows
Property – Update
County Manager Steen
presented the following information regarding the Meadows
Property:
·
Met with NCDOT District Engineer Pat Ivey and
Stokes County NCDOT Representative Noel Chilton regarding the cleanup of
hazardous materials found on the Meadows Property
·
Engineer Pat Ivey informed the County that the more
exploration that was done, the more contamination that was being found
·
Contamination is being found at ground level and as
far as 18 feet down
·
One section that has contamination 18 feet down
will probably have to be capped instead of leaving it open due to financial costs
of moving that amount of soil
·
Tests that are being done have to be sent to a lab
which takes approximately 5-6 weeks
·
Tests that were taken in late January should be
back by late February or early March and should indicate if they are close to
edge of the contamination area
·
Requested contact information for DEHNR for further
information regarding the clean up process
·
NCDOT officials informed the County that NCDOT
would be very interested in water and sewer being brought to the area
Chairman Inman directed Manager Steen to keep
the Board updated on the process.
Proposed
Pinnacle EMS Station
County Manager Bryan
Steen presented a revised design and projected cost for the
proposed Pinnacle EMS Station as requested by the Board at the January
12th meeting.
Manager Steen noted
the following projected cost:
·
40 ft. wide x 100 ft. long metal engineered
building
·
14 ft. high Bay area
·
10 ft. high living area
·
Three 20 ft. bays with bay doors in the center of
bays
·
Bay doors =
12 ft. high x 12 ft. wide
·
Concrete Floor includes forming and pouring
footings
·
Projected Cost:
o
Metal Building - $37,480.00
o
Erecting Building - $16,300.00
o
Concreted Building – $22,480.00
o
Total Cost - $76,260.00
The Board discussed the proposed project with
Manager Steen and EMS Director
Monty Stevens.
Manager Steen requested direction from the
Board regarding the desired plan design
so that staff can move forward with the project.
Manager Steen noted
that the projected cost did not include finishing the interior of the
building and the County’s next step would be to hire an architect to
begin the design work and
cost estimates for bidding purposes.
Manager Steen also noted that the rezoning request would
be on the February 3rd Planning Agenda.
Commissioner Smith
expressed concerns regarding the project not already being
completed.
Commissioner Smith requested the Board
consider bidding out the 40 ft x 100 ft
proposed project as a turnkey job.
Commissioner Smith noted it was an excellent time to bid
out construction projects and felt the County would receive very
competitive bids and if not,
the County could continue with the current process with subcontracting
and the County being
its own general contractor.
Commissioner Lankford
feels the process is working and a turnkey job would
cost more than originally anticipated.
Commissioner Lankford noted the need to obtain the
necessary drawings to determine the entire projected costs.
Commissioner Carroll
noted the first step is to obtain the rezoning permit, which
will be heard on February 3rd.
County Manager Steen
noted that the County had been exceptionably busy with other
projects such as the third floor renovations, Danbury Water Project,
and department head
vacancies. Manager Steen noted
that the County was committed to expedite the project as
soon as a design plan is approved by the Board of Commissioners.
Commissioner Carroll
suggested placing the item on the February 9th Action Agenda
which will occur after the Planning Meeting on February 3rd
at which time the rezoning request
will be heard.
Vice Chairman Walker
confirmed with EMS Director Monty Stevens that the proposed
design of the building would be adequate to meets the needs of EMS.
Chairman Inman, with
full consent of the Board, directed the Clerk to place the item on
February 9th Action Agenda.
School
Facility Needs
Commissioner Carroll,
who requested the item be placed on today’s Discussion
Agenda, noted the need for the Board to move forward as much as
possible with the request
from the Board of Education.
Commissioner Carroll requested the Board discuss the
immediate short term needs at Nancy Reynolds with children being unable
to attend classes at
the beginning of the 2009 school year and the land acquisition in the
Yadkin Township once
information requested from the Tax Administrator and Board of Education
is received.
Dr. Stewart Hobbs
noted the following:
·
Stokes County Board of Education is committed to
the top three school construction projects identified – Nancy Reynolds
Elementary School, New Elementary School (Yadkin Township) and Southeastern
Middle School Renovations/New Construction
·
Stokes County Board of Education is requesting that
the Board of Commissioners appropriate funding immediately for the following
two projects – Nancy Reynolds Elementary School and New Elementary School in
the Yadkin Township as requested in the letter dated 01-13-09
·
Without any allocation of funding, the Board of
Education is limited to any further pre-design and pre-construction work for
the two top projects
·
Board of Education has retained Ersoy, Brake, and
Appleyard Architects to complete an assessment of Nancy Reynolds Elementary
School for a cost not to exceed $13,500 which will need to be paid in the near
future
·
Ersoy, Brake and Appleyard Architects will provide
the following scenarios by the first of March:
o
100% renovation and possible addition
o
80% renovation and 20% demo and new construction
o
60% renovation and 40% demo and new construction
o
20% renovation and 80% demo and new construction
o
0% renovation and 100% demo and new construction
·
Board of Education is committed to keep the school
as close as it is now within the projected budget – projected cost
approximately $10.2 million which was projected by sFl+a Architects
·
Board of Education believes the five scenarios will
provide enough information to the Board of Education to make a decision for a
sound facility plan for Nancy Reynolds Elementary School
·
Information received from Stokes County
Environmental Health Department and NC Department of Environmental and Natural
Resources indicate that Pinnacle Elementary School would be the preferred site
for the location of PODS due to the Pinnacle site having access to municipal
water
·
The existing wastewater system at Nancy Reynolds is
not adequate for the placement of PODS, purchase of additional land will be
needed for wastewater repair area once renovation/new construction is completed
·
In order to be ready for students in August 09, the
requisition for the purchase of PODS must be placed no later than March 1, 2009
·
The Board of Education is recommending the purchase
of new PODS so that they can be used to alleviate other safety and facility
concerns at other schools as outlined in the long-range facility plan once the
Nancy Reynolds Project is complete (possibly one staying at Pinnacle and one
being moved to Lawsonville)
·
Projected total cost for 2 new 10 unit would be
$1,020,376
·
Projected total cost for 2 new 8 unit would be
$817,656
·
Projected total cost for 2 used 8 unit that must be
moved by February 26th would be $722,800 (Iredell-Statesville School
System)
·
PODS must be constructed, delivered, and set up
prior to August 1, 2009
·
Everything will have to be moved from Nancy
Reynolds to the Pinnacle site after June 10th
·
Pre-design and pre-construction work for the New
Elementary School in the Yadkin Township has reached a stopping point until
funding has been committed
·
The Board of Education must also locate a suitable
site for the New Elementary School, have the site approved for purchase by the
Board of Commissioners, and purchase the site before any further work can be
completed
·
Speculation with President Obama’s Stimulus Package
anticipates $25 billion dollars may become available to school systems that are
“ready to move” with construction and renovations school facilities projects
·
Stokes County Schools would like for our county to
be ready to apply for stimulus funding if funding is made available
·
Last two schools bid out within the last two months
came in 20% under the proposed budget
·
Opportune time to do what is right for the children
of Stokes County
·
If funding could be allocated at tonight’s meeting,
the top two projects - Nancy Reynolds Elementary School and the new elementary
school in the Yadkin Township could be ready by August 2010
·
CM at Risk for the new elementary school in the
Yadkin Township has already been approved
·
Board of Education is looking at other locations
for a New Elementary School in the Yadkin Township
Dr. Hobbs, on behalf of the Board of
Education, requested the Board of Commissioners,
as stated in the letter dated January 13, 2009, authorize $25.72
million dollars of funding for
Nancy Reynolds Elementary School and a New Elementary School in the
Yadkin Township
immediately. Dr Hobbs noted that
the Board of Education believes the two priority projects
can be completed within the $25.72 million and any remaining funding
would be earmarked for
the Board of Education’s third priority, Southeastern Stokes Middle
School Renovations/New
Construction Project.
Commissioner Carroll noted at the present
time, there is not a designated project for
Nancy Reynolds Elementary School.
Dr. Hobbs, on behalf
of the Board of Education, stated that the Board of Education
is committed to do what is right in keeping the wishes of the community
regarding the Nancy
Reynolds Project within the projected $10 million budget.
Commissioner Carroll
reiterated the need for a specific project at Nancy Reynolds with
projected costs due to the current economy and that all the projected
financial models assume
an uninterrupted revenue stream that the County heavily depends on from
the State.
Dr. Hobbs stated that
Board of Education could complete the top two priorities –
Nancy Reynolds Elementary School and a New Elementary School in the
Yadkin Township
if the County appropriated $22.1 million as long as the projects are
safe, meet all the codes
and are conducive to learning.
The Board discussed
the submitted information with Dr. Hobbs.
Finance Director Julia
Edwards noted that ADM funding cannot be used for the
purchase of PODS.
Dr. Hobbs presented
the following information to the Board of Commissioners:
·
Beasley Appraisal Services – Kiser Property
·
Recent property sales from the Stokes County Tax
Administration
Commissioner Smith agreed the County must be
cautious with county appropriations,
but feels that County must try to do what is right and fund the top
three priorities if possible.
Dr. Hobbs reiterated
it is the most opportune time for construction bidding and would
like to be ready if stimulus funding does come available. Dr. Hobbs noted the $25 million
funding will complete the Nancy Reynolds Project, a new elementary
school in the Yadkin
Township, start renovations at Southeastern Middle School and also
alleviate overcrowding
issues at four other schools.
Dr. Hobbs also
reiterated that the Board of Education must have funding allocation
before any further action can take place on any project, the immediate
need for the purchase of
PODS for placement of students from Nancy Reynolds Elementary School
and the sFl+a
architectural fees in excess of $100,000.
Mr. David Burge,
Stokes Schools, noted that preliminary information from the City of
King indicates no issues with rezoning for a new elementary school on
the Kiser Property and
no issues regarding water and sewer.
Commissioner Carroll
requested if the Board of Education had considered any other
property for a New Elementary School other than the Kiser
property. Dr. Hobbs noted that the
Board of Education is currently looking at other sites.
Dr. Hobbs concluded
that the Board of Education has made a formal request in the
letter dated January 13, 2009 and will wait for the Board of
Commissioners’ decision on
their request and will submit a request for land acquisition to the
Board of Commissioners.
Chairman Inman
expressed the Board’s appreciation to Dr. Hobbs for his information
presented at tonight’s meeting.
Chairman Inman
reiterated the top three priorities submitted by the Board of Education
- Nancy Reynolds Project, new
Elementary School in Yadkin Township, and safety issues at
Southeastern Middle School.
Chairman Inman noted the emergency situation at Nancy
Reynolds – children will have no place to go at the end of this school
year – June 09 if PODs
are not ordered.
Chairman Inman
suggested the Superintendent contact the County Manager to
determine a sequence of steps for the purchase of PODS.
Chairman Inman, with
full consent of the Board, directed the Clerk to place the
item on the February 9th Discussion Agenda.
GENERAL
GOVERNMENT – GOVERNING BODY – ACTION AGENDA
Proposed
Connection Fees for Danbury Water and Stokes County Regional Sewer Systems
Public Works Director Mark Delehant submitted
the following Proposed Connection
Fees for Danbury Water and Stokes County Regional Sewer Systems at the
January 12th
meeting, with a request for action by the Board of Commissioners at the
January 26th meeting:
|
|
Year
Fee |
Fee |
Recommendation |
|
|
Established |
|
|
|
Water
Tap |
2005 |
$950.00 |
$
1,500.00 |
|
Sewer
Tap |
1993 |
$ 50.00 |
$
1,500.00 |
Chairman Inman
entertained a motion.
Commissioner Lankford
moved to approve the submitted Connection Fees for the
Danbury Water and Stokes County Regional Sewer Systems as recommended
by Public
Works Director Mark Delehant.
Commissioner Carroll 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).
·
To consult with an Attorney employed or retained by the Public Body in
Order to preserve the attorney-client privilege between the Attorney and the
Public Body, which privilege is hereby acknowledged, and to consider and give
instructions to an attorney concerning the handling or settlement of a claim
judicial action, mediation, arbitration, or administrative procedure G.S.
143-318.11(3).
Vice Chairman Walker 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).
·
To consult with an Attorney employed or retained by the Public Body in
Order to preserve the attorney-client privilege between the Attorney and the
Public Body, which privilege is hereby acknowledged, and to consider and give
instructions to an attorney concerning the handling or settlement of a claim
judicial action, mediation, arbitration, or administrative procedure G.S.
143-318.11(3).
Commissioner Smith seconded and the motion
carried unanimously.
The Board returned to the open session of the
January 26th meeting.
School
Facility Needs
Commissioner Carroll
requested the Board discuss the school facility needs, decide the
Board’s next steps, and give the County Manager direction.
The Board determined the following:
Ø Consensus of the
Board to discuss the purchase of PODS at the next meeting
Ø Consensus of the
Board for the County Manager to contact the Tax Administrator and pose the
following question: “If the Kiser
Property was suitably zoned for business, industrial, or governmental use, what
kind of appraised value would be placed on the property based on the new
Schedule of Values and what sales would the Tax Department have to support that
value which should coincide with the values presented by Dr. Hobbs”
County Attorney Edward Powell advised Chairman Inman to make a Declaration
regarding the Kiser Property.
Chairman Inman stated that he is a Real Estate Broker in the State of North Carolina
and affiliated with the company that represents the seller in the Kiser Property and declared his
intent to take no part in any discussion of the Kiser Property.
Ø Consensus of the Board of County Commissioners to request the County Manager contact the Superintendent requesting a specific recommendation, to include cost, from the Board of Education regarding the purchase of additiona1 land for Nancy Reynolds Elementary School and land for a New Elementary School in the Yadkin Township;
Ø Consensus of the Board of County Commissioners to request the County Manager contact the Superintendent to request a specific recommendation, including all associated costs, from the Stokes County Board of Education regarding the purchase of Modular Classroom PODs during renovation or reconstruction of Nancy Reynolds Elementary School;
Ø Consensus of a majority of the Board of County Commissioners ready to proceed with appropriation of money for a specific project at Nancy Reynolds once the Board of Education decides what specific project, new facility or rehabilitation, the Board of Education wants to pursue;
Ø Consensus of a majority of the Board of County Commissioners to not proceed beyond the Nancy Reynolds Project, land purchase, and planning cost until such time the State adopts a Budget in order to know what the county’s revenue stream will be
The Board discussed the sFl+a architectural fees mentioned by Dr. Hobbs.
Commissioner Lankford requested that financing options be ready for the next meeting
regarding the purchase of PODS, $13, 500 engineering costs, and Nancy Reynolds land
acquisition.
Vice Chairman Walker requested to add financing for land acquisition for a New
Elementary School in the Yadkin Township if all requested information is available.
Commissioner Smith
stated the following:
·
Nancy Reynolds’ students being placed in PODS will
be in better shape than the students at Mount Olive and King Elementary Schools
who are currently in mobile units
·
Will not support starting a project at Nancy
Reynolds Elementary School without something in the Yadkin Township, if Nancy
Reynolds students are placed in PODs at Pinnacle, there is no safety issue at
Nancy Reynolds
·
Will support the purchase of PODS at the next
meeting
·
Agrees, the Board needs financial information from
the State, but needs to be ready to commit to a start date for a New Elementary
School in the Yadkin Township – preferably 2010
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