Loading...
100719October 7, 2019 The Randolph County Board of Commissioners met in regular session at 6:00 p.m. in the 1909 Randolph County Historic Courthouse Meeting Room, 145 Worth Street, Asheboro, NC. Chairman Darrell Frye, Vice -Chairman David Allen, Commissioner Kenny Kidd, Commissioner Maxton McDowell and Commissioner Hope Haywood were present. Also present were County Manager Hal Johnson, Finance Officer Will Massie, County Attorney Ben Morgan, and Clerk to the Board Dana Crisco. Chaplain Brian Faircloth from the Randolph County Sheriff's Office gave the invocation. Randolph County 4-H youth led the Pledge of Allegiance to the American flag. The youth spoke of their experience in the program and recited their pledge to the 4-H flag. Special Recognition Craig Frazier, Soil and Water Commissioner, recognized Whitaker Farms for receiving North Carolina's 2019 Outstanding Conservation Farm Family Award. Chairman Frye presented a Certificate of Recognition to the family for their achievement. Captain Michael Craven retired June 30th from the Sheriff's Office with 24 years of service. Captain Craven was recognized by Sheriff Seabolt and Chairman Frye presented him with an engraved clock on behalf of the Board. Public Comment Period Pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 153A-52.1, Chairman Frye opened the floor for public comment and closed it after everyone wishing to speak had done so. County Attorney Ben Morgan read aloud the Public Comment Rules of Procedure. Gerald Jacobi, 4087 Mill Creek Ridge, Asheboro, spoke of a property that adjoins his property. He said that a building had been built that was against the covenants of the subdivision. He reported this to Central Permitting for investigation. After review, it was found that the building met standards of the Unified Development Ordinance. He stated that the owner of the property did not contact the developer in regards to the covenant and he asked the Board for assistance. Gifford DelGrande, 859 Edgewood Rd., Asheboro, expressed his support of the Deep River Trail. He said he is active in Boy Scouts and the Uwharrie TrailBlazers. His troop goes to other counties for outdoor activities and spends money for food and sometimes lodging. He stated that the impact of that in Randolph County would be very beneficial. Steve Brown, 1986 Willow Chapel Ct., Asheboro, stated that he was speaking in regards to a safety issue in his community. He said that he and his neighbors have had their homes struck by stray bullets. When the Discharge of Firearms Ordinance was originally enacted in 1993, Randolph County was much less populated. Mr. Brown asked that the Board review the Ordinance and update it for areas with multiple homes in close proximity. Chairman Frye asked if this was one or multiple individuals shooting. Mr. Brown responded that it was one individual: an adjoining property owner who had purchased his property prior to the subdivision being built. Mr. Brown said that the neighbor blames the residents because he was there first. ioi7n9 David Fernandez, 136 W. Main St., Seagrove, Mayor of Seagrove, said that he was speaking in favor of the project to add sidewalks to downtown Seagrove. New potteries and the expansion of Fresh Cuts Deli have made downtown more popular. The old Train Depot has also been moved downtown to become an information center. There is a parking lot available that would allow visitors to park then walk to the different venues if sidewalks were available. The Town of Seagrove has applied for and been awarded a grant from DOT that requires a 20% match. The Town Council agreed to use $3,000 of their Powell Bill funding to help with that. He urged the Board to approve funding the project. Perry Conner, 216 W. Main St., Franklinville, Mayor of Franklinville, spoke in favor of the Sandy Creek Bridge and Deep River Trail. He said he is passionate about the Deep River Trail and hopes that the Board will consider funding the project and stated that he was appreciative of any help they received. Consent Agenda On motion of McDowell, seconded by Allen, the Board voted unanimously to approve the Consent Agenda as presented, as follows: • approve Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting Minutes of 913119 and Closed Session Minutes of 913119; • adopt Proclamation designating October 6rh-12'h as 4-11 Week in Randolph County, as follows: 4-H Week in Randolph County - 2019 WHEREAS, 4-H is the largest youth development organization in North Carolina and the largest in the nation with over six million participants; and WHEREAS, 4-H is part of the NC Cooperative Extension System of NC State University and NC A&T State University and is a program where youth learn through opportunities that provide them hands-on experiences in science, engineering and technology, healthy living, and citizenship; and WHEREAS, 4-H in North Carolina claims 289,460 youth members and 30,825 volunteers, while Randolph County's 4-Hprogram reaches 12,093 youth with more than 450 volunteers; and WHEREAS, 4-H has connected youth and their communities with the innovative research and resources from our nation's 106 land-grant universities and colleges for more than 100 years; WHEREAS, 4-H youth across the nation are leading efforts to solve problems in their communities and make a differencefor their futures; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Randolph County Board of Commissioners does hereby proclaim October 6-12, 2019, as National 4-H Week in Randolph County. The Board urges the people of this community to take advantage of the opportunity to become more aware of this special program that enhances our young people's interests in their futures as part of Randolph County 4-H Youth Development and to join us in recognizing the unique partnership between our County and our state University System. • adopt Proclamation Recognizing October as Disability Employment Awareness Month, as follows: RECOGNIZING OCTOBER AS DISABILITYEMPLOYMENT A RARENESS MONTH WHEREAS, Randolph County is raising awareness about disability employment issues, celebrating the many and varied contributions ofpeople with disabilities, and supporting activities during the month of October which will reinforce the value and talent people with disabilities add to our workplaces and communities; and WHEREAS, Randolph County gives recognition to workplaces welcoming the talents of all people, to employers supporting differently-abled workers, and to anywhere people with disabilities are encouraged and recognized as a critical part of efforts to build an inclusive community and strong economy; and WHEREAS, Randolph County recognizes, participates, and proclaims the month of October as National Disability Employment Awareness Month; and WHEREAS, reflecting the important role disability plays in workforce diversity, this year's National Disability Employment Awareness Month theme is "The Right Talent, Right Now." NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED in honor of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, the Randolph County Board of Commissioners does hereby proclaim the month of October to be "Randolph County Disability Employment Awareness Month " and urges all employers, schools, and other community organizations in Randolph County to observe this month with appropriate programs and activities and to advance the important message that people with disabilities have the right talent, right now. • approve Budzet Amendment Wellness Grant 2019 ($15, 000). as follows: 2019-2020 Budget Ordinance General Fund—Budget Amendment #13 Revenues Increase Decrease Miscellaneous $15,000 Appropriations Increase Decrease Administration $15,000 • appoint Jordi Roman, Megan Tarver, and Capt. Brian Arrington on the Randolph County Juvenile Crime Prevention Council; • appoint Ken Fields and Bradley Cooper and reappoint Dr. Robert Dough, Fred deFriess, Dr. Jason Stopyra, Keena Heaton, Donovan Davis, Lewis Schirloff, Bradley Beck, Raphael Beech, David Barr, Steven Staley, Bernard Needham, Dana Crisco, April Staley, and Angela Orth to the Randolph County EMS Peer Review Committee; • make the following Firefighters' ReliefFund appointments: Coleridge Benny Beck, C.E. Teague; Eastside Jim Pell, David Creason; Farmer Roger King, Steven Hughes; Franklinville Kyle Dixon, Danny Burgess; Guil-Randolph Dustin Smith, Arch Hamilton; Level Cross David Davis, Kenneth Adams; New Hope (Southwest) Troy Powell, Wiley Hurley; Seagrove Patty Gatlin, Bernard Needham; Staley Yancy King, 10/7/19 Matt Lineberry; Tabernacle Darrell Owenby, Karen B. Lovings; Ulah Timothy Hussey, James Matthew East; Westside Wesley Garner, James Lamonds; • approve Resolution Appointing Sandra Walker as Plat Review Officerfor the Town of Seagrove, as follows: RESOL UTION APPOINTING REVIEW OFFICER (Town of Seagrove) WHEREAS, the NCGS § 47-30.2 requires the Board of County Commissioners in each county, by resolution, to appoint persons to serve as Plat Review Officers to review each plat before it is presented to the Register of Deeds for recording; and WHEREAS, it is the desire of the Randolph County Board of Commissioners to ensure an expeditious review of all maps and plats as required by NCGS § 47-30.2 before they are presented to the Register of Deeds for recording; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, effective October 7, 2019, that Sandra Walker in the Town of Seagrove be hereby appointed to perform all responsibilities as required for Review Officer under the appropriate North Carolina General Statutes. BE IT FURTHER RESOL VED that a copy of this Resolution designating these Review Officers be recorded in the Randolph County Register of Deeds Office and indexed in the names of the Review Officers. • approve Budget Amendment United Way Child Care Grant ($30, 550), as follows: 2019-2020 Budget Ordinance General Fund—Budget Amendment #14 Revenues Increase Decrease Restricted Intergovernmental $30,550 Appropriations Increase Decrease Social Services $30,550 • approve Budget Amendment Insurance Proceeds ($86,000), as follows: 2019-2020 Budget Ordinance General Fund—Budget Amendment #I5 Revenues Increase Decrease Appropriated Fund Balance $86,000 Appropriations Increase Decrease Public Buildings $86,000 • approve Budget Amendment Family Farm Funding ($3, 000), as follows: 2019-2020 Budget Ordinance General Fund—Budget Amendment #16 Revenues Increase Decrease Miscellaneous $3,000 Appropriations Increase Decrease Soil and Water $3,000 10i7i19 • approve Resolution of Authorization to Apply for FEMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance, as follows: RESOLI7TION DESIGNATION OF APPLICANT'S AGE ]NT Noah Caroling Division ofEme n Mali gment Orgallisal un Nan[e (Ilet,eaner na[ned Organiralion) DismLZFNumhu: FWXlph Co-ity OR -01K Applicants State Cagnixalni Acency [br Single Au;i ih A:p SW (If DuP-:Jza11L Agedwy is nut assigned, please intlicatr;j: &Micane= Fiu:tY'.a-(11'1 S +1 2011 k.1.nl'.[.9: C' Appliest'n Fcdcral Ernployc-'-s 'd _Ili `ar on NUML.Cl ,... 66fi152[i Applimnt'3Fc&W IuforLiiatiln htnassin ; tilcndard.s [: I'" Number PRIMARY AGENT SECONDARY ACEN'[' Agents Name Evan I. Grady ,Agent's Name Jared Byrd Organtsat on Randolph Courty organizqliol9 Randolph Couniy gdiicllll P itivn Captain - Emergency Management Official p°s11ian Major - Emergency MarrageYwtnt Mailing Address Mailing Address 780 New Century Drive p 780 New Century Drive p City.Stala Zip ,AShe Mro, NC 27205 01y Slate, Zip Asheboro, NC 27205 DaytiwTeleplione (336) 3'1M978 1),ly illc'1'i:1[: llhne (336) 318 913 Farxi- file Macri" (336) 31$' 951 l nc imi.c 11:n1-hff (336) 31 &$951 11-,n ,r {'::''alar Number (338) 870-3531 J' �cruri. .'!Jlii1er (336)'301-6580 BE ITRMLVD)1 1Y thege+.e:9'rf iln::.n i'::f1r=i.nrr:::lr ::I u�l:c::l:ly ii_.7r_a'ni nda[the]suysaSgg$tptip4fNpfdlCeY911Fa) llmlthC nbznao-lla_nttl]:.emery.�rd Sc:..cid.r.y Aga r. ��r Im::+:r ;lTu w0xationh fur Rdcral aFWurslate nsisnn=m behall::I III, :)I ja'I 1•.111:A1 tel LQ (All JX:-v:V.:liLill i!:5sl:de:9l_I_S.:..7-:flr.eja ssists lce..:1!r.er.l;: hn11:'l l'. SLalliy*d Gisastar Rel[ef til II.Itf'I_2i'�.Gfll'.''151}[11ii111Eahovo-nernsd igehls are aulhiY:!,-x! n:-::prore'17:�n:i ar: 1�.r 11'a ornm Ii:-9b:n Ir aC dn.iny ::i lhC SMIL �•.r n:xn: C:�:::1.: �:::r �d -1:c.i A[41 GnK goffly tW. WRFP eln AgPJ,-V f.:. all :1::t1'.::, .:. 1 Lei., rq• 111 .4 L:h a'. iii 1.:i 41;11 V.1 t•}' ll li F�1'.'.::L ind tl]C INSU rare¢s FFIbFW On 41e rEYel'&E sloe 1pt'eor,ULI'I'd'AA:.L`''VJ,.OJAJJ}''ah': the ld:uvc-cir::derc�.%irc a r nrn:r'. -�I ac;..;.'Cgi 11 'AS—ZAND GOVIcJ01-NC BODY C'N.K'1'1iYING OFF[CIAL Natneand"] tle!i r1t:o1p111',a.mtyBoard arCammisatarlers N��Q Darrell Frye Niw audTllle Dan -all Frye, Chairman Official Position Chairman. Board of County Canm�sl[ners Mains and -Title U0.yfitnc Telcpbum CERTIFTCATIOV I, (Nflme) duly appointed sad itle) oi'the Gavetning Body, do hereby certify dist 010 ab4Ve i5 a MID Find Correet Copy of z : cs:+Juti:m asset: anti approved by the Caverning Body of (Organizfttion) on the ;.iy ;: r .2D llaite: Sigrnture; Rev. 06M • approve Budget Amendment Building Reuse Grant Matches ($5,000), as. follows: 2019-2020 Budget Ordinance General Fund—Budget Amendment #17 Revenues Increase Decrease Transferfirom ED Reserve $5,000 Appropriations Increase Decrease Other Economic and Physical Development $5,000 l0i7i19 Strategic Planning Funding Request County Manager Hal Johnson said the 2016 Randolph County Strategic Planning process was a countywide effort to identify long-term strategic issues impacting Randolph County's public health, safety, and well-being. Major social, economic, and other forces are at work shaping what Randolph County and our communities will be like in the 21st century. Recognizing the need to plan for future challenges, the Randolph County Board of Commissioners asked that a process be developed that would help identify and focus on long-term issues impacting our county's health, safety, and well-being. The Board selected these three issues in their belief that the purpose of all decisions made by a Board of County Commissioners is to enable the protection of the public's health, safety, and well-being. Although the goals and strategies embodied in the 2016 Randolph County Strategic Plan are not binding upon the County or its municipalities, the Board approved a specific revenue source that could be used toward implementation of some of the strategic objectives. The revenue source is the yearly payment to Randolph County from Waste Management Inc. for the use of County lands to operate one of North Carolina's most modern Regional Landfills, the Great Oak Landfill. Since 2017, the Board has used available funds to establish programs and proposals that helped support goals and strategies identified during the planning process. The Commissioners expressed their intent that funding should be directed toward projects that impacted all areas of our Randolph County Community. The following is a listing of those projects and funding previously approved by the Board: 1. Pathways to Prosperity Initiative: Collaboration among Randolph Community College, Asheboro City Schools, and Randolph County Schools to provide a seamless pathway from schools to jobs, specifically, workforce development for advanced manufacturing. A Golden LEAF grant was obtained with 20% match from Randolph County. ($240,000) 2. Randolph County Child Advocacy Center: Establishment of a Randolph County Child Advocacy Center under Randolph County Family Crisis Center. This is a multidisciplinary team project whose goal is to develop a Child Advocacy Center where children can receive services at one location from all agencies in the investigation and recovery process of child sexual abuse. The City of Asheboro and Archdale have also pledged some funding for this project. ($100,000) 3. Countywide Health Assessment: This Public Health Department initiative will perform a county -wide assessment aimed at improved access to healthcare for uninsured and underinsured residents of Randolph County. ($50,000) 4. Opiate Addiction and Overdose Prevention: Implement an evidence based model to address opiate addiction and overdose prevention in Randolph County. Funding will be used by the Public Health Department to implement evidence based strategies identified by the Opioid ioi7n9 Community Coalition, such as medical provider education, school based prevention education, harm reduction strategies, community education and access to healthcare for those affected. ($100,000) 5. H. Clay Presnell Park Access Initiative - Town of Seagrove: Funding is being used to improve the access roads into the park and walking trails throughout the park. This will allow area residents full use of all park facilities. Funding request is in addition to Town of Seagrove allocations and Presnell Foundation funding opportunities. ($100,000) 6. Creekside Park - City of Archdale: Improving playground facilities with specific emphasis on creating an all-inclusive or "all -play" facility that could be used by all children regardless of their abilities or special needs. ($100,000) 7. Deep River State Trail - Sandy Creek Bridge Crossing: Portions of the Deep River State Trail in Randolph County run through the City of Randleman, the Town of Ramseur, and the Town of Franklinville. Funding is being utilized for design of the Sandy Creek bridge crossing. The bridge will begin the connection of the Deep River State Trail sections in Randolph County. ($75,000) 8. Health Coaching Program - Randolph Community College (RCC): Developing a health coaching program that will meet the instructional requirements of the Center for Credentialing and Education's (CCE) Board Certified Health Coach. Financial Support will ensure RCC has the staff and equipment in place to start the program. These Certified Health Coaches are a benefit to companies by helping employees be healthier and in turn saving them money. ($8,900) 9. Community Connectivity Plan - Regional Coordinated Area Transportation System (RCATS): Funding allows a Community Connectivity Plan study which will address unmet transportation needs for Randolph County. This includes a possible circular route between Asheboro and the Archdale/Trinity/High Point areas in addition to increasing RCATS transportation availability with the other outlying communities within Randolph County. The scope of the study would also address finding additional ways to provide funding needed to support other improvements for public transportation availability in Randolph County. ($50,000) 10. Shelter of Hope: Asheboro Shelter of Hope is a homeless shelter for men in Randolph County that provides shelter, clothing, washer and dryer, meals, and referrals to service agencies for the men using their services. Transportation to work for men with jobs is also provided. The Shelter has a capacity for 32 men. ($20,000) 11. Project Safe Neighborhoods: Funding provides a local partner for a nationwide initiative that brings together federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement officials, prosecutors, and community leaders to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in a community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. ($20,000) ioi7n9 12. Partnership for Children — The Basics: Funding allows the Randolph Partnership for Children to conduct research, facilitate county -wide and community -specific planning, and allocate/leverage funds to support programs which benefit young children 0-5 and their families. The Partnership serves as the central source of information and technical assistance to improve the quality of child care in Randolph County and educates the community on the critical needs of young children and the importance of early education. ($5,715) 13. City of Asheboro — Zoo City Park: Funding will provide a link between the City, the Randolph -Asheboro YMCA, the Central Carolina Soccer Club, and Zoo City Lacrosse to provide a sports complex for youth across the state and a space for other events and activities, increasing tourism dollars for the County. ($100,000) Economic Development Grants: 1. West Randleman Business Park— Loan Payoff: This loan has been paid off in the amount of $297,208. 2. Seagrove-Ulah Metropolitan Water District Loan: This loan is in the amount of $300,000. Mr. Johnson said the following two requests are consistent with the goals and strategies identified by the 2016 Randolph County Strategic Planning process. "Gane Survey" Request Sarah Lanier, Chairman of the Juvenile Crime Prevention Council (JCPC), said gang activity continues to make headlines in Randolph County news. It is a significant issue, especially looking at where the county stands in comparison to the Randolph County Strategic Plan. At a recent JCPC meeting, the area consultant advised that a "Gang Survey" has not been completed in Randolph County in several years. He advised having an updated survey done. A gang survey would allow for a professional overview of the needs of the county conducted by a person specially trained in identifying gang -related crime and community needs. The survey will include interviews of law enforcement, court information, and crime statistics to pinpoint specific areas of concern. It would identify weaknesses, needs, and potential resources available to assist the county. Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), an adult offender program, will also be a resource for the survey. Children are groomed to become gang members at an early age. PSN will help to identify factors that encouraged the adult offenders to join a gang in hopes to prevent youth from doing the same. Having a recent "Gang Survey" will be very beneficial to the county not only for collecting statistical information and identifying issues but also will allow the County to obtain potential grant funding to address these gang issues. According to the regional consultant, other counties who have completed gang surveys have successfully tapped into various funding resources to address these community concerns. Randolph County JCPC requests a one-time allocation of $30,000 for this "Gang Survey". Not only will this help Randolph County identify areas of concern for gang activity, it will assist in identifying resources available to the county, assist law enforcement, and help plan for a safer ioi7n9 future for Randolph County. Ms. Lanier said Attorneys Walt Jones and Ray Warburton were present if the Board had any questions in regards to the involvement of PSN. Chairman Frye asked who would conduct the survey. Ms. Lanier stated that a request for proposal would be sent statewide. The last survey was done by a professor at UNC Charlotte. Currently there is someone at UNC Greensboro and an organization in Durham that conducts this type of survey. Chairman Frye asked if $30,000 would be adequate to complete the survey. Ms. Lanier said she thought it would be based on their research, but the JCPC may be able to supplement it if needed. Chairman Frye wanted to know what would be studied. Ms. Lanier stated that criminal statistics and interviews from law enforcement would be used to track trends and behaviors of youth prior to them being entered into the juvenile system. This information could give insight to possibly prevent youth from joining a gang at all. Chairman Frye asked if any municipalities were participating. Ms. Lanier said that the Randleman, Asheboro, and Archdale Police departments had committed to participate. Commissioner Kidd said he is a member of the JCPC and noted that having the support of the DA's office and law enforcement was very important. Commissioner Allen asked what the possibility was that involvement would be countywide. Ms. Lanier stated she felt it was high. She said any return on investment would be used to match future grants and funding that would benefit the entire county. Chairman Frye pointed out that the funds being used are available from Strategic Planning money (from the Health and Well -Being Budget Ordinance) that has been put back for that purpose. There will not be additional funds taken from the budget. Commissioner Allen inquired if interest gained on money from Waste Management would be used for the fund next year and if the Board had approved that yet. Will Massie, Finance Officer, said that more money will come from Waste Management in July 2020 and confirmed that where it will go has not been decided. Mr. Walt Jones, prosecutor for PSN, said he is new to the Randolph County DA's Office but has worked in other places as a prosecutor for PSN. In PSN, a message is given to the offenders that gang behavior will not be tolerated and repeat offenders will be prosecuted. He said he wanted to use PSN knowledge to benefit the children too. He mentioned that gang members from other counties have already come into Randolph County looking for new members. On motion of Kidd, seconded by Allen, the Board voted unanimously to approve funding of $30, 000 for the Randolph County JCPC to conduct a "Gang Survey. " Healthy Communities Requests ioi7n9 Mary Joan Pugh, Trails and Natural Heritage Coordinator, said the Randolph County Trails Advisory Council which is made up of municipalities, trail groups, and other partners including the Wellness Coalition, Tourism Development Authority, State Trails, and Piedmont Triad Regional Council was formed in January 2019. The Council promotes, coordinates, and assists with trails throughout Randolph County with the idea of offering quality outdoor experiences and health/wellness opportunities to residents, businesses, and tourists. Several trails initiatives have been accomplished with the idea of a trail project for each municipality including: • State Trails Recreational Trails Program Application for Worthville (Randleman) to Central Falls (Asheboro) Deep River State Trail Paddleway — 1st river access • State Trails Recreational Trails Program Application for Trinity-Uwharrie Greenway Phase I — 1st public trail • State Trail Designation — Worked with County IT and EMS to apply for official designation as the Deep River State Trail for 1.4 miles in Randleman, 2.5 in Franklinville and .6 in Ramseur for a total of 4.5 miles. • Weekday Walking — In partnership with Randolph County Public Health provided a weekday walking program in Liberty and Archdale. As a result, Liberty has marked three walking trails. • Uwharrie National Recreation Trail (UT) — Uwharrie TrailBlazers completed a 2.5 -mile trail to connect the future Walker's Creek Trailhead being acquired by the US Forest Service to the existing UT. • Piedmont Legacy Trails (PLT) — Randolph County Trails Map as part of the PLT's 12 - county interactive map Even with this progress, given the county's volume and variety of outdoor natural, cultural, and historic resources, much still needs to be addressed. The Randolph County Trails Advisory Council met in July, reviewed the many trail needs, and voted to request funding for three trail projects through Healthy Communities which is the umbrella organization for Trails as well as other health and wellness initiatives. The three trail projects are: • Matching funds for construction of the Deep River Sandy Creek Bridge - $60,000 • Seagrove Downtown Sidewalk - $17,000 • Archdale Greenway - $24,000 TOTAL - $101,000 Ms. Pugh thanked the Board for the opportunity to request funding for these trail projects that will enhance the County's wealth of authentic outdoor experiences for the health and enjoyment of all who live, work, and visit Randolph County. Commissioner Haywood spoke of hearing about a meeting of municipalities where Zeb Holden, Archdale City Manager, had been asked what projects the city had worked on for economic development. His response was Creekside Park. The community loves and supports it and people from out of the area come to use it. Commissioner Haywood said that Creekside Park was an economic driver for the City of Archdale and the trails would be a driver for economic development as well. ioi7n9 Next, she commented on the Wellness Grant being an example of health and well-being paying off. Commissioner Allen asked about the status of $38,000 left from the $75,000 for the engineering and environmental study of the bridge over Sandy Creek. Ms. Pugh said that money would be used for the Deep River Trail to match funds and help with fundraising efforts. On motion of Haywood, seconded by Allen, the Board voted unanimously to provide funding in the amounts of $60, 000 for the Deep River Trail, $24, 000 for the Archdale -Trinity Middle School Greenway, and $17, 000 for the Seagrove Sidewalk Project for a total of $101, 000. Founder's Hemp Building Reuse Grant Kevin Franklin, Economic Development Corporation (EDC) President, said innovative Business Growth / DBA Founder's Hemp is a vertically integrated hemp company based in Asheboro which manages processes from clone to final product. The company provides expert assistance to its network of farmers and it processes NC -grown hemp into usable products. In addition to processing its own hemp, the company contracts extraction services as well. Founder's Hemp is the only NC hemp processing facility to be GMP certified. Founder's Hemp is among the first hemp companies established in North Carolina and has been operating in Asheboro since 2017. The company has experienced rapid growth, necessitating enhanced processing capabilities to meet growing demand. Founder's Hemp intends to renovate a portion of the facility it occupies in south Asheboro to accommodate new equipment and processes. The proposed project will install five new clean rooms in existing product storage space to facilitate enhanced processing. Investment in building renovations will total at least $310,000; additional related investment in machinery and equipment is anticipated to be approximately $50,000. In addition to the investment, Founder's Hemp is committed to adding fifteen new full-time jobs directly associated with the expansion while retaining sixty-two existing full-time positions. The new positions will pay an average annual wage of $35,667. Founder's Hemp is eligible for a Building Reuse Grant from NC Commerce in the amount of $150,000 ($10,000 per job) to assist with the renovation expenses. The City of Asheboro authorized submission of the application in advance of the August 29th deadline. Grant award announcements will be made on October 17th The grant program requires a 5% local government cash match which would total $7,500 based on this $150,000 grant request. On behalf of the City of Asheboro, the EDC requests that Randolph County Government consider participating with an equal share of the match, or $3,750 per unit of local government, contingent upon award of the grant. The EDC believes that the Founder's Hemp building renovation project is a good economic development project for the City of Asheboro and Randolph County. The project will increase the value of the building, generate investment in new machinery and equipment, create fifteen new quality jobs, and diversify the local economy. Commissioner McDowell noted that he had recently visited some Amish shops and they sold hemp there. He said he wanted more information on hemp. Bob Crumley, owner of Founder's Hemp, spoke about the history of hemp and current day production. Founder's Hemp sells clone plants to farmers in Pennsylvania, some who are Amish, South Carolina, Virginia, and North Carolina. They buy back some of the hemp from these growers. Many of these growers once grew tobacco. He said the Department of Agriculture currently controls the industry. Hemp is not classified as a controlled substance but as an agricultural product. Mr. Crumley said Founder's Hemp has a multi-million dollar contract with a pet joint supplement company to be the exclusive provider of hemp oil being produced in Randolph County. Chairman Frye asked how previous legislation may affect business for Founder's Hemp. Mr. Crumley said he and another attorney co -wrote the statute approved by the State with a provision allowing this pilot program to be converted to a permanent program when cleared by the Federal government. Commissioner Haywood asked how many acres are being used to grow hemp in Randolph County. Mr. Crumley said he wasn't sure but it was in the 100s of acres. Commissioner Allen inquired about producers. Mr. Crumley explained that there are growers and processors. Some examples he gave for processors were Four Saints Brewery, pharmacies, a tea company, and a chemical company. Chairman Frye opened the Public Hearing at 7:36 p.m. and closed it after hearing no comments. Commissioner Kidd thanked Mr. Crumley for the update and expressed his excitement about the diversity being brought to Randolph County. On motion ofAllen, seconded by Kidd, the Board voted unanimously to approve the Resolution to support the City ofAsheboro's submission ofa Building Reuse Grant Application for Founder's Hemp and % of the required 5% local match of $7,500 ($3, 750 per government unit), as follows: RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY OF RANDOLPH TO PROVIDE ONE-HALF OF THE LOCAL MATCH GRANT REQUIREMENT FOR THE FOUNDER'S HEMP ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PROJECT WHEREAS, Section 158-7.1 of the North Carolina General Statutes authorizes a county to undertake an economic development project by extending assistance to a company in order to cause the company to locate or expand its operations within the county; and WHEREAS, innovative Business Growth, LLC doing business as Founder's Hemp, hereinafter the "Company" has stated its commitment to invest Three Hundred Ten Thousand Dollars ($310,000.00) to renovate an existing building and to create fifteen (15) new full-time jobs in the City ofAsheboro in Randolph County; and WHEREAS, the City ofAsheboro has voted to authorize the filing, by the City, of an application with the North Carolina Department of Commerce for a Building Reuse Grant on behalf of this economic development project for the Company; and WHEREAS, said Grant requires a 5% local match from the local government making application; and WHEREAS, the amount of the Grant that the Company is eligible for is One Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($150, 000.00), requiring a local match of Seven Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($7,500.00); and WHEREAS, the City ofAsheboro has requested that Randolph County provide one- half of the required local match for this project, or Three Thousand Seven Hundred and Fifty Dollars ($3,750. 00); and WHEREAS, upon the completion by the Company of this expansion project, the Company will have expended Three Hundred Ten Thousand Dollars ($310,000.00) to renovate the facility and will have created fifteen (15) new full-time jobs in the County and the City; and WHEREAS, this economic development project will stimulate and stabilize the local economy, promote business in the County and City, and result in the creation of a number ofjobs in the County and City; and WHEREAS, the County has in its General Fund available revenues sufficient to fund this economic development project. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Randolph County Board of Commissioners, this 7h day of October 2019, as follows: Section 1. The County is authorized to expend up to Three Thousand Seven Hundred and Fifty Dollars ($3,750. 00) of County funds to provide one-half of the required local match for the Building Reuse Grant applied for on behalf of innovative Business Growth, LLC dba Founder's Hemp by the City ofAsheboro. Section 2. Participation by the County in this economic development project is expressly contingent upon the approval of the grant application and local match by the City ofAsheboro and upon grant approval by the North Carolina Department of Commerce. Duke Energy Relocation Phase I Partnership Agreement Kevin Franklin, EDC President, presented background information regarding the request to move a 525kV Duke Energy power line that transects the Greensboro -Randolph Megasite, as follows:. • When the site was initially assembled, parties representing the site believed that the power line would not impede future development. • Based on client feedback, the 525kV line has become an impediment to development. o Several prospects have stated that the power line would hinder plans. o Toyota/Mazda would have required the line to be relocated based on their development plans. • Even potential clients requiring a smaller development footprint would likely require relocation of the power line based on slope and grading requirements which could require that ioi7n9 dirt be moved into the power line right-of-way, encroaching on the required distance between the lines and the ground. • With the Toyota/Mazda requirement, Duke Energy invested in the design and engineering required to relocate the line to the north and set plans in motion to begin the relocation process in order to meet the development timeline. Despite Toyota/Mazda's decision to locate in another state, plans to relocate the line are ongoing. • Given the importance of the 525kV line as a part of the larger power grid, there are limited windows of opportunity to take the line out of service — a short period each spring and fall. Because a client's development timeline of approximately 12 months is unlikely to fall neatly within the available windows of opportunity, it is important that Duke proceed with this project in keeping with the long-term, consistent effort to prepare the site. Thus, Duke has begun phase 1 of the line relocation project by pouring foundations for a total of six new poles — three on each end of the megasite (one pole per phase conductor for the 90 degree turn north). • Getting a start on this project will minimize client uncertainty, reduce the development timeline, and confirm to a client that Duke is committed to relocate the line if needed. • For a confirmed economic development project, Duke will upgrade or add to their system based on client need in anticipation of recouping that investment through billing for customer usage. However, Duke does not have capacity to complete speculative work. In the spirit of partnership, Duke has taken on some financial risk prior to the finances and agreement with the property owners being finalized for this initial phase of the line relocation project. Before proceeding further, however, funding must be secured. • As joint property owners of the site, a funding agreement has been drafted requesting funding from the North Carolina Railroad (NCRR), the Greensboro Randolph Megasite Foundation (Foundation), and Randolph County in an amount not to exceed $3,900,000 for phase 1 of the line relocation project. Any overages will be absorbed by Duke Energy. The agreement calls for the NCRR to invest $2,400,000, or just over 61% of the total cost. The Foundation is prepared to invest $900,000 toward the cost of the project, or —23%. Randolph County's requested investment of $600,000 equates to roughly 15.4% of the project cost. Randolph County owns 30% of the property in the site. • For clarity, Duke has committed to reimbursing the partners once a client that requires line relocation commits to the site. • As has been noted, the owners of the megasite have a joint marketing agreement which does not require joint financial commitment to the site. However, there has been a joint commitment to ensure that the site is highly marketable and ready for an end user. Relocation of the Duke Energy 525kV line and this related financial request is one more step in a long process to prepare the site, reduce uncertainty, and reduce the development timeline, all of which speaks to the joint goal of attracting a transformational project to Randolph County, the region, and the State. Commissioner Allen questioned the contingency of 50% on Attachment B of the contract (Full contract attached to these minutes as Attachment A). He said that a normal contingency runs from 10-15%. Mr. Franklin said he spoke with a Duke representative and Duke felt that the $1.7 million estimate would end up being higher. Chairman Frye stated that the power lines can only be shut off twice a year. Mr. Franklin agreed and said the power loads are lowest in spring and fall. He explained that when a client comes and wants everything ready, the likelihood that the timeline to move the lines coordinates with that of the client is low. By moving these ahead of time, the site has already been prepared to help meet the needs of the client. Chairman Frye asked if the funds from the other partners in the contract have been submitted. Mr. Franklin responded that they have been committed but he was not sure that they have been paid. Commissioner McDowell said that a 35% burden and 50% contingency are not realistic. He asked for a better explanation of the quotes provided. He also inquired if Duke got to keep any of the $3.9 million that wasn't used. Mr. Franklin stated that actual costs will be billed. If it is not that much, the partners will receive refunds on what they contributed. He clarified that he was not part of the engineering and could not answer to the percentages. Commissioner Kidd confirmed that the County's portion of this expense was 15.4% of the proj ect. Chairman Frye commented that the County will get back any money paid for moving this power line. Commissioner Allen stated the contract says if the State pays Duke Energy for it, the expense will be reimbursed to the partners. He did not feel that was a guarantee. Commissioner McDowell questioned why the NCRR paid $2.3 million and not $2.9 million. Mr. Franklin stated that the NCRR wanted Randolph County to partner with them on the cost. Chairman Frye said that Randolph County didn't pay anything for the $900,000 environmental study. It was paid by the Foundation. Mr. Franklin added that Randolph County stands to benefit the most from this project. The ultimate goal of this contract is to have the site ready for a client. Commissioner McDowell stated there are other places that this money can come from. He explained that the NCRR is a C -Corporation. They pay income taxes and can deduct this expense. He said he calculated that if paying $2.9 million, with their tax break, they would only pay $2.1 million. If the County puts in $600,000, it does not reap a tax benefit. Mr. Franklin reiterated that the NCRR wants to ensure financial partnership in the project. Commissioner McDowell said the NCRR has a large amount of money available for capital proj ects. Commissioner Kidd clarified $1.7 million on attachment B has already been completed. He still has many questions about the estimates. Commissioner Allen said it would have been nice for Duke to have a representative here to answer these questions. Chairman Frye stated that Mr. Johnson was a member of the Foundation Board and it was his understanding that the Foundation would pay Randolph County's portion to move the project forward. Commissioner Kidd said he would like to be able to ask a Duke representative about these figures in Attachment B. He expressed his desire to have an end user at the Megasite. The County has already put a lot of money into the site and he does want it to move forward. Commissioner Haywood read from the contract that if the cost of the work is less than $3.9 million, the cost will be prorated to each of the partners. Commissioner Allen said in his experience with a "cost not to exceed", the final cost usually got up to the estimate. Duke will get to it somehow. Mr. Franklin said he understood that the actual cost would come in above the estimate. Commissioner Kidd stated he was confident that the cost will be reimbursed but cannot confirm that. Commissioner Haywood said she is not a risk taker. Some people who are risk takers have high returns. There is risk in this. There won't be anything there if the Board doesn't take a risk. Chairman Frye stated he had no doubt that Randolph County would be reimbursed. Commissioner McDowell added not until an end user comes. He feels strongly about other options. Randolph County has a lot of capital projects and a lot of debt. In the scheme of things, $600,000 is not huge but it can come from other sources besides the County. Chairman Frye said the amount of money Randolph County put in this project has leveraged more money. Commissioner Allen stated that if the money will be reimbursed, it is only a loan. The contract does not reflect that. Chairman Frye said potential clients are watching everything the Board does and says. Commissioner Allen commented that he hoped a client would look at the minutes and consider the Board to be good stewards of County money. Commissioner Haywood asked about the timeframe for the Board to make a decision. Mr. Franklin replied this month. Commissioner Kidd asked to have a Duke representative come to the November meeting and answer the questions the Board has. On motion of Kidd, seconded by McDowell, the Board voted unanimously to table the Duke Energy Relocation Phase I Partnership Agreement and Public Hearing until the November 4, 2019 meeting. REACT Update EMS Chief Donovan Davis gave a brief update regarding the REACT program. REACT stands for Randolph's Emergency Alert Communication Technology. An annual subscription is paid for this emergency alert system. REACT allows EMS to contact citizens by telephone in the event of an emergency, disaster, infrastructure disruption, suspicious activity within a neighborhood, etc. It also allows EMS to contact over 35,000 landline telephones across the county or to select a distinct geographic region within the county. Citizens and businesses will receive a recorded message for notifications, warnings, and/or instructions. Randolph County citizens and visitors have the opportunity to register their cellular device(s) and multiple geographic locations within the county in order to receive the recorded notifications. This system will also send out simultaneous texts and emails to registrants. When registering a cellular device(s) online, citizens have the option to select the types of notifications they want to receive and the hours during which they receive them. Chief Davis said he was excited to report that the next enhancement to the REACT program is to expand its access to partner cities and towns within Randolph County so they can use the system without having to contact EMS directly to activate it. Recently, access and training was provided to officials from the Town of Liberty so they can use the system whenever they need to make notifications to citizens and businesses within town limits. The Police Chief at the City of Archdale has also been contacted and agreed to access and training for the system. Mr. Davis reiterated that this will be offered to all of the municipalities who have full-time staff and will be available to them at no cost. In closing, Chief Davis stated that EMS is in the initial stages of developing a program so that the Commissioners and municipal officials can learn more about the REACT system, public health emergencies and issues, the importance of a local state of emergency and disaster declaration, state resources, business continuity, and other topics related to public health, safety, and well-being. Commissioner Allen asked if the system had the capability to pinpoint a specific geographic area. Mr. Davis said it is very flexible. In addition to a specific area, it can send an alert and receive a response back from citizens. This would help in emergency situations so that EMS can see who needs assistance during that emergency and who does not. Commissioner Kidd asked if the Board members had signed up. Mr. Davis said yes. Commissioner Allen suggested getting the word out to the citizens through local news outlets. Adoption of 2020 Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting Schedule Chairman Frye said the Board must adopt their calendar yearly. On motion of Allen, seconded by Kidd, the Board voted unanimously to adopt the Resolution for the 2020 Board of Commissioners Schedule, as follows: RESOLUTION ADOPTING 2020 MEETING SCHEDULE OF THE RANDOLPH COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS WHEREAS, pursuant to N.C. G. S. 153A -40(a), the board ofcommissioners shall hold a regular meeting at least once a month; and WHEREAS, pursuant to N.C.G.S. 153A -40(a), the board of commissioners may, by resolution, fix the time and place of its regular meetings. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Randolph County Board of Commissioners hereby adopts the following meeting schedule for all of its 2020 regular meetings: Monday, January 6 Monday, July 6 Monday, February 3 Monday, August 3 Monday, March 9 (NACo prior week) Tuesday, September 8 Monday, April 6 Monday, October 5 Monday, May 4 Monday, November 2 Monday, June I Monday, December 7 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the regular meetings shall begin at 6:00 p. m.; and FURTHER, that all regular meetings shall be held in the 1909 Historic Courthouse, 145-C Worth St., Asheboro, NC 27203; and BE IT FINALLY RESOL VED that the Clerk shall cause a copy of this resolution to be posted and published pursuant to NCGS 153A-40. County Manager's Update County Manager Hal Johnson reminded the Board of three upcoming dates. On October 14th, there will be a Closed Session update on the opioid litigation. On October 15th, there will be a ribbon cutting at the Elections Department's new space at Northgate Complex. On Oct 21st, there will be a rezoning appeal from the Planning Board. Commissioners Updates Chairman Frye said the Piedmont Triad Regional Council (PTRC) Annual Meeting will be held at the Zoo on October 16th starting at 11:15 a.m. Everyone is invited. He announced the passing of Blair Barton -Percival, PTRC Area Agency on Aging Director. He said that three Randolph County agencies were awarded PTRC's Center of Excellence for aging services. Those are Randolph Senior Adults Association Centers in Asheboro, Archdale, and Liberty. ioi7n9 Adjournment At 8:34 p.m. on motion of McDowell, seconded by Allen, the Board voted unanimously to adjourn. Darrell Frye, Chairman David Allen Kenny Kidd Hope Haywood Maxton McDowell Dana Crisco, Clerk to the Board Attachment A AGREEMENT This Agreement ("Agreement") is made and entered into this day of September, 2019 (the "Effective Date's by and among DUKE ENERGY CAROLINAS, LLC, a North Carolina limited liability company ("Duke Energy'; GREENSBORO-RANDOLPH MEGASITE FOUNDATION, INC., a North Carolina corporation ("GRMF'�; NORTH CAROLINA RAILROAD HOLDINGS I, LLC., a North Carolina limited liability company ("NCRR"); and RANDOLPH COUNTY, a North Carolina municipal corporation ("County'). GRMF, NCRR, and the County are collectively referred to hereinafter as the "GRMS Owners." RECITALS 1. Duke Energy and the GRMS Owners desire to promote economic development within the Piedmont Triad region of North Carolina. To that end, the GRMS Owners have acquired property commonly known as the Greensboro -Randolph Megasite ("GRMS") as shown on Attachment A. 2. The GRMS is crossed in an east -west direction by the Parkwood 525 kV transmission line ("Transmission Line's owned by Duke Energy. 3. Any re-routing of the Transmission Line to other portions of the GRMS requires specialized 3 Pole Dead -End Structures to be constructed and placed in the existing path of the Transmission Line on the GRMS. 4. The GRMS Owners now desire to have Duke Energy place the orders for and begin the work required to construct and place the specialized 3 Pole Dead -End Structures ("GRMS Preparation Work's in order that the Transmission Line could be re-routed should the need arise. 5. The not -to -exceed cost of the GRMS Preparation Work is $3,900,000. A copy of the not - to -exceed budget for the GRMS Preparation Work is shown on Attachment B. 6. The GRMS Owners are willing to fund the GRMS Preparation Work, up to the not -to - exceed amount of $3,900,000, subject to the terms and conditions recited herein. NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements contained herein and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, Duke Energy and the GRMS Owners agree as follows: 1. Subject to the provisions of this Agreement, Duke Energy agrees to undertake the GRMS Preparation Work shown for illustrative purposes on Attachment C. In connection with the GRMS Preparation Work, Duke Energy agrees to make good faith efforts to undertake the following activities with targeted completion by November of 2019: a. Order all materials and supplies for the GRMS Preparation Work b. Complete all design and engineering necessary for the GRMS Preparation Work c. Prepare for load balancing and all other matters necessary for installation of the 3 Pole Dead End Structures by May 2019 d. Erect and install the 3 Pole Dead End Structures by November 2019 The GRMS Owners agree that the foregoing dates are not deadlines but are targets by which Duke Energy will make good faith efforts to meet, but are subject to uncertain factors including but not limited to Duke Energy's operational requirements, Acts of God or actions by third parties beyond Duke Energy's control that may impact Duke Energy's ability to meet these target dates. 2. While the not -to -exceed cost of the GRMS Preparation Work is $3,900,000, the actual cost may be lower or higher. Duke Energy agrees that the cost of the GRMS Preparation Work to the GRMS Owners will not exceed $3,900,000. The GRMS Owners agree to pay Duke for the actual costs of the GRMS Preparation Work, up to a maximum amount of $3,900,000. The GRMS Owners agree to pay Duke for the actual costs of the GRMS Preparation Work as follows: a) Payment $3,900,000 will be made on the following schedule: o September 14, 2019: $2,072,000 (to be paid by NCRR) o October 31, 2019: $ 628,000 (to be paid by GRMF) o November 30, 2019: $ 300,000 (to be paid by County) o December 31, 2019: $ 300,000 (to be paid by NCRR) o January 15, 2020: $ 300,000 (to be paid by GRMF) o January 31, 2020: $ 300,000 (to be paid by County) b) If the cost of the GRMS Preparation Work is less than $3,900,000, the amount paid by each of the GRMS Owners shall be pro -rated based on their respective contributions as set forth in the schedule above. [remainder of this page itentionally blank] [beginning of this page itentionally blank] C) Duke Energy shall prepare and submit itemized cost reports to the GRMS Owners for the GRMS preparation work on a quarterly basis. 4. Duke Energy agrees to reimburse the GRMS Owners for all sums paid to Duke Energy by the GRMS Owners for the GRMS Preparation Work if Duke Energy is reimbursed by the State of North Carolina or any person(s) or entity(ies) other than the GRMS Owners for the GRMS Preparation Work. Said payment shall be made within sixty (60) days of Duke Energy's receipt of any such reimbursement from others. The provisions of this paragraph expressly survive the termination of this Agreement. 5. This Agreement may be terminated by either Duke Energy or the GRMS Owners (collectively) at any time with thirty (30) days prior written notice to the other party. In the event of termination by Duke Energy or the GRMS Owners, Duke Energy shall refund any amount of the payments which has not been spent by Duke Energy, and such refunds shall be prorated amongst the GRMS Owners based upon the amount previously paid by each. Any refunds due the GRMS Owners will be made within sixty (60) days of the termination of this Agreement. 6. This Agreement is made and executed with the intention that the construction, interpretation and validity hereof shall be determined in accordance with and governed by the laws of the State of North Carolina. 7. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between Duke Energy and the GRMS Owners with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersedes all prior oral or written agreements and understandings with respect to the subject matter. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Duke Energy and the GRMS Owners have executed this Agreement by their duly authorized representatives as of the Effective Date. DUKE ENERGY CAROLINAS, LLC By: Name: Title: RANDOLPH COUNTY By: Name: Title: GREENSBORO-RANDOLPH MEGASITE FOUNDATION, INC. By: Name: Title: NORTH CAROLINA RAILROAD HOLDINGS I, LLC By: _ Name: Title: 0 -�F � L�<'v i t. � r '°- } ' , ATTACHMENT B GRMS PREPARATION WORK NOT -TO -EXCEED BUDGET Engineering & Project Management $ 32,440 Oversight $ 33,143 Foundations $ 450,000 Access and Erosion Control $ 500,000 Material $ 510,155 Equipment $ 150,150 1 Year of Escalation $ 50,277 Subtotal: Class 4 Estimate $ 1,726,164 Class 4 Estimate $ 1,726,164 Contingency @ 50% $ 863,082 Burdens @ 35% $ 906,236 CIAC for NC 525kV @ 11.7% $ 408,971 Total $ 3,904,454 ATTACHMENT C GRMS PREPARATION WORK NEW Dead-end Poles• Existing 525kV line with Dead- end poles insmiled Existing 525kV Tower Future 525kV Line Existing 525kV Tower