050222
May 2, 2022
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, Assistant County Manager/Finance Officer Will Massie, County Attorney
Ben Morgan, Deputy Clerk to the Board Sarah Pack, and Clerk to the Board Dana Crisco. Chaplain
Bill Hatfield from the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office gave the invocation and everyone recited
the Pledge of Allegiance. The meeting was livestreamed on Facebook and YouTube.
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.
Clyde Foust, 3746 Midway Acres Road, Asheboro, asked the Board for clarity regarding the
Confederate monument in front of the Historic Courthouse. He asked the reason the Board voted
to leave the monument where it is with the historical information that has been presented. No one
has denied the facts presented; so why does the statue still stand in front of the Courthouse? He
feels that the Board owes an explanation to the community regarding why the meaning of the
monument, to some people, trumps documented evidence of atrocities that occurred in Randolph
County.
Jane Ledwell-Gant, 2713 Ledwell Road, Asheboro, said that at the previous meeting, not
enough time was allowed for Public Comment. She referenced a Resolution that was presented to
the Board that was not acknowledged. She asked why the Board only cares for the 90% of the
county that voted republican in the most recent presidential election. There is no minority that
should have to appear before a judge with a Confederate monument outside of the Courthouse.
She intends to continue pursuing removal of the monument.
Sean Walker, 2748 Eden Forest Drive, Sophia, gave the Board several photos of emaciated
dogs. He asked that the Board investigate the situation with the neglected dogs. He is interested
in why the situation was not rectified in a timely manner.
William Dula, 1320 Randolph Tabernacle Road, Asheboro, said he has learned of construction
that is going to be occuring bordering his land. Cedar Falls Road is narrow and curvy, and often
there are landfill trucks and semi-trucks on this road. Two children were injured by the mirrors of
a truck. He does not agree with increasing the traffic by three hundred vehicles. He asked that the
Board limit the truck traffic to the landfill on Cedar Falls Road.
Chairman Frye said the Board expressed itself regarding the opinion of the statute. There is a
long history there that cannot be changed. The gentleman with the neglected dogs has been
charged by law enforcement. The development Mr. Dula mentioned is being considered by the
City of Asheboro.
5/2/22
Consent Agenda
Chairman Frye noted the three resolutions included in the Consent Agenda. He read excerpts
from each of the resolutions.
Commissioner Haywood mentioned the Motorsports Grant and what the funding means for the
county and Caraway Speedway.
On motion of Haywood, seconded by Allen, the Board voted 5-0 to approve the Consent Agenda
as presented, as follows:
approve Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting Minutes of April 4, 2022 and
Special Meeting Minutes of April 19, 2022;
approve Budget Amendment – Administration – Mailing Cost ($75,000);
2021-2022 Budget Ordinance
General Fund—Budget Amendment #50
Revenues Increase Decrease
Sales Taxes $75,000
Appropriations Increase Decrease
Administration $75,000
appoint Samantha Varney, Melody Cummings, Rick Dawes, and McKenna Gardner
to the Randolph County Juvenile Crime Prevention Council;
reappoint Tim Greene and Charles Allen to the Regional Partnership Workforce
Development Board;
adopt Resolution Designating the Week of May as “National Police Week” in
Randolph County, as follows:
RESOLUTION DESIGNATING THE WEEK OF MAY 11 - MAY 17, 2022, AS
“NATIONAL POLICE WEEK'' IN RANDOLPH COUNTY
WHEREAS, in 1962, John Fitzgerald Kennedy signed the Joint Resolution
entitled Joint Resolution to authorize the President to proclaim May 15 of each
year as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the calendar week of each year during
which such May 15 occurs as Police Week'' (36 U.S.C. 136); and
WHEREAS, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington,
DC, dedicated on October 15, 1991, is the national monument to honor law
enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty; and
WHEREAS, Federal, State, local, and tribal police officers, sheriffs, and other
law enforcement officers across the United States serve with valor, dignity and
integrity; and
WHEREAS, law enforcement officers are charged with pursuing justice for all
individuals and performing their duties with fidelity to the constitutional and civil
rights of the individuals that the law enforcement officers serve; and
WHEREAS, the resolve of law enforcement officers in the service of their
communities is unyielding, despite inherent dangers in the performance of their
duties; and
WHEREAS, the vigilance, compassion, and decency of law enforcement officers
are the best defense of society against individuals who seek to do harm; and
5/2/22
WHEREAS, Peace Officers Memorial Day 2022 honors the 523 law enforcement
officers killed in the line of duty during 2021 and 24 of those were in North
Carolina; and
WHEREAS, during the first four months of 2022, 99 law enforcement officers
across the United States have made the ultimate sacrifice.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Randolph County Board of
Commissioners:
(1) designates the week of May 11 through May 17, 2022, as “National Police
Week'' in Randolph County; and
(2) expresses strong support for law enforcement officers across the United
States for their efforts to build safer and more secure communities; and
(3) recognizes the need to ensure that law enforcement officers have the
equipment, training, and resources necessary to protect their health and safety
while the law enforcement officers are protecting the public; and
(4) recognizes the members of the law enforcement community for their selfless
acts of bravery; and
(5) acknowledges that police officers and other law enforcement officers who
have made the ultimate sacrifice should be remembered and honored; and
(6) expresses condolences to the loved ones of each law enforcement officer
who has made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty; and
(7) encourages the people of Randolph County to observe National Police
Week with appropriate ceremonies and activities that promote awareness of the
vital role of law enforcement officers in building safer and more secure
communities across the United States.
approve Budget Amendment - Merit Raises ($125,000);
2021-2022 Budget Ordinance
General Fund—Budget Amendment #51
Revenues Increase Decrease
Appropriations Increase Decrease
$125,000
Administration $9,044
Information Technology $9,380
Tax $6,965
Elections $723
Register of Deeds $650
Public Buildings $4,273
Sheriff $27,177
Animal Services $295
Emergency Services $17,884
Building Inspections $2,746
Planning and Zoning $1,170
Public Health $16,268
Social Services $22,187
Veterans Services $318
5/2/22
Public Library $5,920
approve Budget Amendment – Public Buildings ($431,000);
2021-2022 Budget Ordinance
General Fund—Budget Amendment #52
Revenues Increase Decrease
Sales Taxes $431,000
Appropriations Increase Decrease
Public Buildings $431,000
approve Budget Amendment – 2022 Timber Receipts ($13,066);
2021-2022 Budget Ordinance
General Fund—Budget Amendment #53
Revenues Increase Decrease
Restricted Intergovernmental $13,066
Appropriations Increase Decrease
Education $13,066
accept the $485,000 state motorsports grant, authorize the Chairman to sign the
scope of work and related contract documentation, and approve the Motorsports
Capital Project Ordinance for $485,100, as follows:
RANDOLPH COUNTY MOTORSPORTS CAPITAL PROJECT ORDINANCE
BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of the Randolph County Commissioners that,
pursuant to section 13.2 of Chapter 159 of the General Statutes of North Carolina,
the following capital project ordinance is hereby adopted:
Section 1. This ordinance is to establish a budget for the special grant from the
NC Dept of Commerce Motorsports Grant program, designated for upgrades to
Caraway Speedway facility in order to offset negative economic impacts of the
COVID-19 pandemic, support safe reopening, and aid planned expansions or
upgrades delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Section 2. The following amounts are anticipated to be available to complete
this project:
NC Commerce Motorsports Grant $ 485,000
Investment Earnings 100
$ 485,100
Section 3. The following amounts are appropriated for expenditures for the
capital project:
Construction $ 485,100
Section 4. The officers of Randolph County are hereby authorized to proceed
with approved project costs in accordance with all General Statutes of North
Carolina and within terms of the contracts approved by the Randolph County
Board of Commissioners.
Section 5. The Finance Officer is hereby directed to maintain within the
Capital Project Fund sufficient specific detailed accounting records to satisfy the
requirements of General Statutes of North Carolina and of the grantor agency and
the grant agreements.
Section 6. Funds may be disbursed from the Capital Project Fund for the
purpose of making payments as due.
5/2/22
Section 7. This Capital Project Ordinance shall be entered in the minutes of
the Board of the Randolph County Commissioners and after adoption copies of this
Ordinance shall be filed with the finance officer, the budget officer, and the clerk
to the board.
Section 8. This Capital Project Ordinance is adopted on May 2, 2022 and
expires two years following receipt of the final grant distribution.
reappoint William Ivey and Lynne Qualls to the Historic Landmark Preservation
Commission Board;
reappoint Ralph Hardison to the Randolph County Library Board of Trustees;
approve Budget Amendment - Building Inspections ($250,000);
2021-2022 Budget Ordinance
General Fund—Budget Amendment #54
Revenues Increase Decrease
Permits and Fees $250,000
Appropriations Increase Decrease
Building Inspections $250,000
approve Proclamation for Letter Carriers’ Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive Day, as
follows:
Letter Carriers' Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive Day
WHEREAS, every year on the second Saturday in May, letter carriers across the
country collect non-perishable food as part of the nation's largest one-day food
drive, distributing the donations to local food banks; and
WHEREAS, The Letter Carriers' Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive is just one
example of how letter carriers work to make a difference in the lives of those they
serve. Since the pilot drive was held in 1991, more than 1.82 billion pounds of food
have been collected; and
WHEREAS, we recognize all letter carriers for their hard work and their
commitment to their communities. All of the food collected in our community stays
in our community and we support carriers' efforts to help those in need in our
community; and
WHEREAS, we also recognize the noteworthy milestone of 30 years that the
National Letter Carriers’ Food Drive celebrates in 2022.
NOW, THEREFORE, the Randolph County Board of Commissioners does
hereby proclaim the 14th day of May 2022, as "LETTER CARRIERS' FOOD
DRIVE DAY" in Randolph County and encourages the citizens of the community to
support the food drive by placing non-perishable food items in or near their
mailbox on Food Drive Day. The letter carrier will pick it up while delivering the
mail and together, we can all help to feed our hungry.
approve Proclamation for Hurricane Preparedness 2022, as follows:
HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS WEEK 2022
WHEREAS, hurricanes and tropical systems have impacted every North
Carolina county with disastrous results; and
WHEREAS, North Carolina is repeatedly one of the leading states nationally
for overall damage from hurricanes; and
5/2/22
WHEREAS, hurricanes and tropical storms can cause life-threatening hazards
such as flooding, storm surge, destructive winds, tornadoes and landslides; and
WHEREAS, flooding claims lives every year, usually when motorists attempt to
drive through flooded roadways, and
WHEREAS, insurance companies suggest residents review and update their
homeowners or renters insurance policy to ensure it includes coverage for flooding,
accidental damage and natural disasters; and
WHEREAS, people are less likely to be injured when they have prepared ahead
of time and know what to do when a hurricane threatens; and
WHEREAS, people should prepare their personal emergency supply kit to use
at home or during an evacuation with enough food and water to sustain the
members of their household for three days or longer, and should know their
evacuation routes and comply with local and state authorities when asked to
evacuate; and
WHEREAS, the ReadyNC.gov website is available to help people make
emergency preparedness plans and provide current weather and traffic conditions;
and
WHEREAS, the National Weather Service, local and state government officials
all work together before and during a hurricane or tropical storm to reduce the
dangers posed to lives and property and provide a quick, effective response to these
storms; and
WHEREAS, the observance of Hurricane Preparedness Week by Randolph
County residents provides better protection from the dangers of hurricanes and
tropical storms;
NOW THEREFORE, the Randolph County Board of Commissioners does
hereby proclaim the week of May 1-7, 2022, as “HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS
WEEK” in Randolph County. The Board encourages all county residents to plan
and prepare by assembling their personal emergency supply kits and updating their
emergency plans.
approve Budget Amendment – JDRC – ($5,682);
2021-2022 Budget Ordinance
General Fund—Budget Amendment #55
Revenues Increase Decrease
Restricted Intergovernmental $5,682
Appropriations Increase Decrease
Juvenile Day Reporting Center $5,682
approve Budget Amendment – JDRC – ($36,708).
2021-2022 Budget Ordinance
General Fund—Budget Amendment #56
Revenues Increase Decrease
Restricted Intergovernmental $36,708
Appropriations Increase Decrease
Juvenile Day Reporting Center $36,708
Farm, Food, and Family Education Center (F3EC) Matters
5/2/22
Paxton Arthurs, County Engineer, said recently, with funding from the State and allocation of
County Funds, the Farm, Food, and Family Education Center has begun to move forward. HH
Architecture, who was previously selected as the Designer for this project, has completed an
updated programming study for the newly reconfigured project. He introduced Kristen Hess,
principal Architect with HH Architecture, who presented an overview of the programming study
as well as the proposal for design, bidding, and construction administration.
Ms. Hess reviewed the project team for the F3EC and gave a summary of the scope of the
project. Agriculture is a big economic driver for Randolph County. She described the offices that
the F3EC will house, along with the Makerspace and commercial kitchen that will be available.
The Training and Event Center will have an exhibit hall and open-air arena, as well as many
accessory buildings. Ms. Hess showed the site plan and described the location in relation to
Highway 64. She gave an overview of each building and the benefits of the layout of the buildings
and site. She displayed a table showing an opinion of probable cost adding up to a project total of
$29,564,039. Design will continue through spring 2023 with the site opening to the public in 2025.
The next steps include a schematic design laying out the particulars of the site.
Commissioner Haywood asked how much green space is located at the rear of the site. Ms.
Hess said approximately half of the hundred-acre site will be developed, leaving a large buffer at
the back.
Chairman Frye said he noticed lots of parking spots, but no restroom facilities. Ms. Hess
pointed out the location of the restrooms in the event center and the arena. There are also restrooms
in the office building.
Vice-Chairman Allen asked about a particular area on the site plan. Ms. Hess said there is a
grey area in the middle of the site plan that will be cleared and readied as a potential fair or event
site. This site would also work as overflow parking. Vice-Chairman Allen thanked the F3EC
Committee for all of their work on this project. The site lends itself to this type of arrangement.
He thanked State House Representatives Allen McNeill and Pat Hurley, and Senator Dave Craven
for their work in obtaining funding for this project.
Commissioner Haywood asked if this model was designed similar to Union County’s center
and Ms. Hess confirmed that it was.
Vice-Chairman Allen said it is an open show facility, so the arena is covered but not air
conditioned.
Chairman Frye mentioned the status of project funding and Vice-Chairman Allen said
additional grants may be obtained.
Chairman Frye said costs had been cut from the initial estimate.
Mr. Massie explained the associated budget amendment.
5/2/22
On motion of Allen, seconded by Haywood, the Board voted 5-0 to approve the proposal by HH
Architecture for the Schematic Design through the Construction Administration for the Farm,
Food, and Family Education Center, authorize the County Manager to sign the contract, and to
approve the Budget Amendment #4 for the Farm, Food, and Family Education Center Capital
Project Ordinance, as follows:
Agricultural Center Capital Project Ordinance
Amendment #4
Revenues Increase Decrease
Appropriations Increase Decrease
Professional Fees $417,000
$417,000
Construction
Public Hearings for Fire Tax Districts
Associate County Attorney Aimee Scotton explained the need for public hearings regarding the
fire tax service districts. It is proposed that the existing districts be abolished and new ones
established without a fifteen-cent cap.
Chairman Frye said this is not a tax increase or a budget hearing. Any changes in the fire tax
can only be made by the Board of Commissioners. Fire departments have no taxing authority.
Abolishing the tax cap allows fire departments to ask for increases. There is a $1.50 tax cap
imposed by the State of North Carolina. This includes school taxes, personal property, and fire
taxes in a district. The total of all the taxes combined cannot exceed $1.50 per hundred-dollar
valuation. Departments can make recommendations that reflect increased costs. Chairman Frye
said fire protection at the Megasite is also an issue that is being addressed.
Climax Fire Department
There were no speakers for Climax Fire Department.
Franklinville Fire Department
There were no speakers for Franklinville Fire Department.
Guil-Rand Fire Department
Calvin Riddle, 3976 Wood Avenue, Archdale, said he understands that the county is growing
at an exponential rate. He doesn’t understand why the tax rate would increase from fifteen cents
to $1.50. This is a huge increase. The cost of living is increasing at an exponential amount. What
would stop the State from increasing the $1.50 cap?
Chairman Frye explained that all local taxes fall under the $1.50 State cap.
Vice-Chairman Allen said the $1.50 cap is the total of all ad valorum tax rates in the county.
This includes property tax. This is not indicative of what the tax cap is; it is simply a cap on the
combined amount.
5/2/22
Chairman Frye said fire departments will present budgets to the Board of Commissioners
asking for their tax rate.
Elbert Canter, 2363 Canter Lane, Archdale, is concerned about his local fire station; he has
been unable to contact anyone at the station when he has visited. Firefighters from this station are
sent to other local stations to cover personnel shortages. He told several anecdotes of the station
not being able to respond quickly to emergencies.
Commissioner Haywood said we aren’t getting volunteer service from citizens anymore.
Without a strong volunteer base, pay is needed for employees. There is a balance between being
able to pay and demand for services. If stations need to be manned, we will need an increase.
Monica Shue, 2433 Canter Lane, Archdale, said she understands the lack of volunteers.
However, when the fire department puts on Facebook that they are open 24/7, that is a lie. This is
false advertising. She doesn’t think its too much to ask to have someone available to take a rescue
call.
Daniel Worrell, 3834 Carole Drive, Sophia, said next month the budget will be considered and
now there will be a $1.50 cap instead of fifteen cents.
Chairman Frye said only the Board of Commissioners can raise taxes. The fire department
cannot raise taxes.
Vice-Chairman Allen said this process needs to occur in order to eliminate the appearance of
two fire tax rates on the current bills. Eliminating the cap will allow there to be one line item on
the bill.
Chairman Frye reiterated that the $1.50 cap includes property taxes, as it always has. This rate
is a combined total of all local taxes. If Guil-Rand wants a tax increase, they will need to ask the
Board of Commissioners.
Westside Fire Department
Craig Frazier, 2051 Lake Lucas Road, Sophia, said the $1.50 cap is very confusing to tax
payers. He has explained to many citizens what this State cap is, but it has fallen on deaf ears.
This is a terrible time to address removing a tax cap or a tax increase. There is one department
that has asked for a tax increase.
Chairman Frye said Climax will present a request for an increase.
Mr. Frazier said all property values are going up. He pays Asheboro City Schools tax because
of land he owns that crosses into the district even though there is no structure.
Linda Nutt, 3750 Oakgrove Road, Asheboro, is shocked by an increase from fifteen cents to
$1.50. She has a lot of older people in her neighborhood. If taxes go up, people may become
5/2/22
homeless. She appreciates the fire departments but many people wouldn’t be able to afford a tax
increase.
Chairman Frye said the fire taxes will not increase to $1.50.
Commissioner Haywood explained that there is a number set by the state that the County cannot
exceed with all local taxes combined. These taxes cannot go above $1.50. Currently property tax
is 63.27 cents per $100 valuation. The fire tax rate is approximately 15 cents per $100 valuation.
At current, fire departments cannot request 16 cents unless the structure of taxing is changed. Fire
departments may ask for a couple cents increase but it will not be dramatic. Not all departments
are asking for more than 15 cents. One station will be asking for 17 cents. This is how the fire
service has worked through the years; they increase a penny at a time, maybe more, maybe less.
The fifteen-cent limit will be removed, but the main $1.50 cap set by the State will stay where it
has been. Taxes are not increasing to $1.50. This state cap has always been there and that will
continue to be in place. If the department decides they need to raise taxes by a penny or two they
will need to present to the Board of Commissioners requesting this increase. Commissioner
Haywood asked that citizens be more in tune with what fire service leaders are doing. Talk to
them and find out what their needs are and why increases are needed. Communication would be
huge in situations like this.
Sean Walker, 2748 Eden Forest Drive, Sophia, asked if there was anything stopping the board
from moving to $1.50.
Chairman Frye said the option for $1.50 has been there for years.
Mr. Walker said the $1.50 is very confusing.
Chairman Frye said the County tries to be a good steward of funding.
Ben Morgan, County Attorney, said the information was included in the letter.
Ms. Scotton wanted to include this language so the process and limits are transparent.
Chairman Frye said the $1.50 has always been there. The tax is not uncapped. There will be a
public advertisement in a newspaper before action is taken on abolishing the cap for these four
districts. Fire Departments are saving homeowners thousands of dollars on insurance.
At 7:28pm the Board recessed.
At 7:34pm the Board reconvened.
Aging Services Bid
Mark Hensley, Randolph Senior Adults Association (RSAA) Executive Director, said the
Randolph County Aging Services Planning Committee's (ASPC) recommends the awarding of the
Home and Community Care Block Grant (HCCBG) funds for a three-year period that begins on
July 1, 2022 and runs through June 30, 2025. He reviewed the allocation amount approved for
5/2/22
Randolph County and the allocation amounts for the two service providers, Regional Consolidated
Services (RCS) and the Randolph Senior Adults Association (RSAA).
The services provided for the three-year period will remain the same as in the current Fiscal
Year. The categories of services are:
1. Adult Day Care, Congregate Nutrition, Home Delivered Meals, Information & Options
Counseling and Transportation
2. In-Home Aid — Levels l, Il, and Ill and Housing & Home Improvement
As of this date, the state of NC has not announced the county allocations for the HCCBG and
therefore, this recommendation is made using the current year allocation amount of $897,253.00.
When the state issues the County allocation amounts and should there be a change from the current
year funding we will re-submit accordingly. The Randolph County current fiscal year allocation
also being used for FY 2022/2023 is $897,253.00 (an increase of $58,511.00 over the prior Fiscal
Year allocation).
For the three-year period of 7/1/2022 — 6/30/2025, the Aging Services Planning Committee
recommends RSAA to provide the Category 1 services listed above and that RCS be approved to
provide the Category 2 services. Further, the ASPC unanimously recommends that the FY
2022/2023 allocations be split between the providers as follows:
RSAA $586,904.00
RCS $310,349.00
Total Randolph County Allocation $897,253.00
The above allocations were approved by the ASPC at their April 26, 2022 meeting. Therefore,
the ASPC recommends to the Randolph County Board of County Commissioners the providers
and allocations referenced in this document. Upon the Board’s approval, Randolph County
Finance Officer Will Massie and Commissioner Chairman Darrell Frye will need to sign the
DAAS-731 form in duplicate.
Mr. Hensley explained some of the programs impacted by funding and by volunteers.
Commissioner Haywood asked how much time is required of volunteers. Mr. Hensley said
volunteers are asked for an hour at a time.
On motion of Kidd, seconded by Allen, the Board voted 5-0 to 1) approve the third-year** bids
for Randolph Senior Adults Association and Regional Consolidated Services, 2) approve the FY22-
23 Fund Allocations, and 3) approve Randolph Senior Adults Association as the Lead Agency.
**Due to a clerical error, the motion was stated as second-year bids. The information provided
to the Commissioners as shown above was for the third-year bids. This is being corrected in these
minutes and will be considered approved when the minutes are approved in the Consent agenda.
Mediko, Inc. Contract for Inmate Medical Services
Justin Brubaker, Sheriff’s Office Business Manager, said the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office
has been in the process of reviewing Mediko, Inc., the current inmate medical provider and other
potential providers. In doing so, the Sheriff’s Office has reviewed one new additional proposal
5/2/22
from Correctional Healthcare for the 2022-2023 budget year. After comparing and contrasting
both of these providers, the Sheriff’s Office wishes to renew the contract with Mediko, Inc.
The cost to renew these services with Mediko, Inc. is $791,532.55 for the year, which comes
to $65,961.04 per month. Mr. Brubaker asked the Board to approve the renewal of the contract
with Mediko, Inc for the 2022-2023 budget year, and authorize the County Manager to sign the
contract renewal.
Jail Administrator Major Phillip Cheek said Mediko has been wonderful and stays staffed.
They have more Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) than other agencies, who use Medical
Technicians. The LPNs work under a registered nurse. They work very will with the health
department. They’ve been a great partner.
Commissioner Haywood said with the LPNs, the County can avoid taking inmates for services.
Major Cheek said most services are in-house now with Mediko.
On motion of Allen, seconded by Haywood, the Board voted 5-0 to renew the Mediko, Inc.
Contract for Inmate Medical Services in the amount of $791,533 for FY22-23.
Opioid Settlement Update and Project Ordinance
County Manager Hal Johnson said on January 2, 2018, the Board of Commissioners received a
detailed report from the Public Health Director and Emergency Services Director concerning the
opioid epidemic and its growing impacts on Randolph County citizens, public health, law
enforcement, and emergency services. After receiving this report, the Board of County
Commissioners unanimously approved a Resolution finding that there exists a serious public
health and safety crisis involving opioid abuse, addiction, morbidity, and mortality in Randolph
County. This Resolution Declared the Opioid Crisis a Public Nuisance in Randolph County, and
unanimously approved the engagement of attorneys for litigation against manufacturers and
distributors of opioids.
The North Carolina Association of County Commissioners (NCACC) notified Counties that on
July 22, 2021, a $26 billion national settlement agreement was reached with the nation’s major
pharmaceutical distributors which manufactured and marketed opioids. This agreement would
resolve the claims of both states and local governments across the country.
The national opioid settlement is expected to bring as much as $750 million to North Carolina
over an 18-year period. Counties will receive 80% of these funds based on population. Randolph
County is expected to receive $9,824,046 to be distributed over 18 years. Randolph County’s first
payment of $377,436 is expected in late spring 2022 and a second payment of $830,054 is expected
in late summer 2022. The County would then receive yearly payments until 2038.
On August 2, 2021, the Board of County Commissioners adopted a Resolution approving the
Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the State of North Carolina and Local Governments
on use of the funds relating to the settlement of Opioid Litigation. The MOA was developed and
facilitated by the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners (NCACC).
5/2/22
The N.C. Attorney General’s Office and the State Health Department created very specific
guidelines and procedures for how each county can use its share of the money. Randolph County
will choose evidence-based treatment programs from the following High-Impact Opioid
Abatement Strategies Option A, as listed in the MOA:
EXHIBIT A TO NC MOA: HIGH-IMPACT OPIOID ABATEMENT
STRATEGIES (“OPTION A” List)
In keeping with the National Settlement Agreement, opioid settlement funds may
support programs or services listed below that serve persons with Opioid Use
Disorder (OUD) or any co-occurring Substance Use Disorder (SUD) or mental
health condition. As used in this list, the words “fund” and “support” are used
interchangeably and mean to create, expand, or sustain a program, service, or
activity.
1. Collaborative strategic planning. Support collaborative strategic
planning to address opioid misuse, addiction, overdose, or related issues.
2. Evidence-based addiction treatment. Support evidence-based
addiction treatment consistent with the American Society of Addiction Medicine’s
national practice guidelines for the treatment of opioid use disorder – including
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) with any medication approved for this
purpose by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration – through Opioid Treatment
Programs, qualified providers of Office-Based Opioid Treatment, Federally
Qualified Health Centers, treatment offered in conjunction with justice system
programs, or other community-based programs offering evidence-based addiction
treatment. This may include capital expenditures for facilities that offer evidence-
based treatment for OUD. (If only a portion of a facility offers such treatment, then
only that portion qualifies for funding, on a pro rata basis.)
3. Recovery support services. Fund evidence-based recovery support
services, including peer support specialists or care navigators based in local health
departments, social service offices, detention facilities, community-based
organizations, or other settings that support people in treatment or recovery, or
people who use drugs, in accessing addiction treatment, recovery
support, harm reduction services, primary healthcare,
or other services or supports they need to improve their health or well-being.
4. Recovery housing support. Fund programs offering recovery
housing support to people in treatment or recovery, or people who use drugs, such
as assistance with rent, move-in deposits, or utilities; or fund recovery housing
programs that provide housing to individuals receiving Medication-Assisted
Treatment for opioid use disorder.
5. Employment-related services. Fund programs offering employment
support services to people in treatment or recovery, or people who use drugs, such
as job training, job skills, job placement, interview coaching, resume review,
professional attire, relevant courses at community colleges or vocational schools,
transportation services or transportation vouchers to facilitate any of these
activities, or similar services or supports.
6. Early intervention. Fund programs, services, or training to
encourage early identification and intervention for children or adolescents who
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may be struggling with problematic use of drugs or mental health conditions,
including Youth Mental Health Exhibits, page 2 First Aid, peer-based programs,
or similar approaches. Training programs may target parents, family members,
caregivers, teachers, school staff, peers, neighbors, health or human services
professionals, or others in contact with children or adolescents.
7. Naloxone distribution. Support programs or organizations that
distribute naloxone to persons at risk of overdose or their social networks, such as
Syringe Service Programs, post-overdose response teams, programs that provide
naloxone to persons upon release from jail or prison, emergency medical service
providers or hospital emergency departments that provide naloxone to persons at
risk of overdose, or community-based organizations that provide services to people
who use drugs. Programs or organizations involved in community distribution of
naloxone may, in addition, provide naloxone to first responders.
8. Post-overdose response team. Support post-overdose response
teams that connect persons who have experienced non-fatal drug overdoses to
addiction treatment, recovery support, harm reduction services, primary
healthcare, or other services or supports they need to improve their health or well-
being.
9. Syringe Service Program. Support Syringe Service Programs
operated by any governmental or nongovernmental organization authorized by
section 90-113.27 of the North Carolina General Statutes that provide syringes,
naloxone, or other harm reduction supplies; that dispose of used syringes; that
connect clients to prevention, treatment, recovery support, behavioral healthcare,
primary healthcare, or other services or supports they need; or that provide any of
these services or supports.
10. Criminal justice diversion programs. Support pre-arrest or post-
arrest diversion programs, or pre-trial service programs, that connect individuals
involved or at risk of becoming involved in the criminal justice system to addiction
treatment, recovery support, harm reduction services, primary healthcare,
prevention, or other services or supports they need, or that provide any of these
services or supports.
11. Addiction treatment for incarcerated persons. Support
evidencebased addiction treatment, including Medication-Assisted Treatment with
at least one FDA-approved opioid agonist, to persons who are incarcerated in jail
or prison.
12. Reentry Programs. Support programs that connect incarcerated
persons to addiction treatment, recovery support, harm reduction services, primary
healthcare, or other services or supports they need upon release from jail or prison,
or that provide any of these services or supports.
Action Items Moving Forward:
1. Annual Meeting of the County and municipalities:
The Memorandum of Understanding, Option A, requires that each county receiving Opioid
Settlement Funds shall hold at least one annual meeting with all municipalities in the county in
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order to receive input as to proposed uses of the Opioid Settlement Funds and to encourage
collaboration between local governments. These meetings shall be open to the public.
Ongoing planning will be provided by the Randolph County Opioid Collaborative. This
collaborative has been initiated and coordinated by the Randolph County Department of Public
Health since February 2017, with funds approved by the Board of Commissioners through the
Strategic Planning Initiative. Collaborative meetings brought together community partners with
shared interest to discuss the issues and share strategies/resources/services recommended to
address the opioid epidemic.
2. Establish Special Revenue Fund and Opioid Project Ordinance
A: Creation of special revenue fund: Adopt the Opioid Settlement Grant Project
Ordinance which will account for the expenditure of opioid funds. The
Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) requires every Local Government receiving
Opioid Settlement Funds to create a separate special revenue fund that is designated
for the receipt and expenditure of the Opioid Settlement Funds.
B: Procedures for special revenue fund: Funds in this special revenue account shall not
be commingled with any other money or funds of the County.
C: Interest earned on special revenue fund: Any interest earned on the special revenue
fund must be used in a way that is consistent with the MOA.
D: Process for drawing from special revenue funds: Settlement funds received are
held in Contingency and not expended until properly authorized. Recommendations
for project funding will be provided for final approval of the Board of County
Commissioners after review by the Randolph County Opioid Collaborative as
facilitated by the Randolph County Public Health Department.
As individual projects are approved by the County Commissioners, each budget amendment
for this fund will identify the specific High-Impact Abatement Strategies the expenditure is made
to support.
The following is the most current drug related overdose data for Randolph County provided by
the Public Health Department and Emergency Services:
The most current data has expanded to include all types of medications and drugs overdose
information.
Drug overdose deaths:
Overdose deaths occurring among North Carolina residents have been on the rise. This
metric includes deaths involving all types of medications and drugs: opioids (commonly
prescribed opioids, heroin and synthetic narcotics like fentanyl and fentanyl-analogues),
stimulants (cocaine, methamphetamine), benzodiazepines, and others. This metric includes
fatal overdoses of all intents; over 90% of these deaths are unintentional. As a key OSUAP
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metric, a goal was set to reduce the expected number of overdose deaths by 20% by the
end of 2024.
Deaths in Randolph County: the rate of unintentional overdose deaths
among residents of Randolph in 2020 was 57.1 (rate per 100,000
residents. Number of deaths: 82): in 2019 there were 58 deaths in Randolph County; in
2018 there were 46 deaths in Randolph County.
Drug overdose Emergency Department (ED) visits:
The rate of drug overdose ED visits in Randolph County in 2020: 218.6 (rate per 100,000
residents. Number of ED visits: 314 in 2019
In 2019, for every 1 drug overdose death there were 5 ED visits due to overdose in North
Carolina. These ED visits are limited to unintentional and undetermined intent cases only
and overdose codes of drugs and medicaments with dependency potential. As a key
OSUAP metric, a goal was set to reduce the expected number of overdose ED visits by
20% by the end of 2024. There were 259 ED visits in Randolph County; in 2018 there were
260 ED visits in Randolph County.
From the Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
US County Opioid Dispensing Rates:
Opioid dispensing rate per 100 persons (Randolph County):
o 2018: 53.7 prescriptions
o 2019: 33.7 prescriptions
o 2020: 31.0 prescriptions
Randolph County Opioid (& other substance use) Collaborative: The collaborative reinitiated in
November 2021 after being suspended during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Collaborative meetings continue to bring together stakeholders with vested interest in identifying,
supporting and implementing strategies to address the opioid and substance use issue.
The opioid epidemic has affected Randolph County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) in
several ways. The number of overdoses has steadily increased each year since 2015. Overdose
calls are very time consuming and almost always require law enforcement, EMS, and fire
department response. EMS has expanded protocols to train first responders on how to use reversal
medications. The additional stress an overdose call places on our County Paramedics and
Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) has been evident.
In 2019, there were 664 overdoses reported directly to our 9-1-1 center. Of those, 36 were fatal.
2020 showed a decrease in the number of overdoses reported, 574, but the number of fatalities rose
to 53. In 2021, the number of overdoses reported was 596, but the number of fatalities rose to 74.
Already in the first half of 2022, there have been 123 overdoses reported and 21 drug related
deaths.
Commissioner Haywood said funds can be used for faith-based treatment centers.
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On motion of Haywood, seconded by Allen, the Board voted 5-0 to establish the Opioid
Settlement Grant Project Ordinance in the amount of $9.9 million, as follows:
OPIOID SETTLEMENT GRANT PROJECT ORDINANCE
BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of the Randolph County Commissioners that,
pursuant to section 13.2 of Chapter 159 of the General Statutes of North Carolina,
the following grant project ordinance is hereby adopted:
Section 1.
This ordinance is to establish a budget for projects and programs to be
funded by distributions from the National Opioid Settlement. As directed under the
North Carolina Memorandum of Agreement (NCMOA), specific opioid mitigation
strategies will be authorized by the Board of County Commissioners after
determination that such costs are eligible under federal and state law. Funds
remain in contingency until such specific programs are authorized and budgeted
as required by the NCMOA.
Section 2.
The following amounts are anticipated to be available to complete this
project:
Opioid Settlement Distributions $ 9,824,046
Investment Earnings 75,954
$ 9,900,000
Section 3.
The following amounts are appropriated for expenditures for the grant
project:
Contingency $ 9,900,000
Section 4.
The officers of Randolph County are hereby authorized to proceed with
approved project costs in accordance with all General Statutes of North Carolina
and within terms of the contracts approved by the Randolph County Board of
Commissioners.
Section 5.
The Finance Officer is hereby directed to maintain within the Project Fund
sufficient specific detailed accounting records to satisfy the requirements of
General Statutes of North Carolina and of the grantor agency and the grant
agreements.
Section 6.
Funds may be disbursed from the Project Fund for the purpose of making
payments as due.
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Section 7.
This Project Ordinance shall be entered in the minutes of the Board of the
Randolph County Commissioners and after adoption copies of this Ordinance shall
be filed with the finance officer, the budget officer, and the clerk to the board.
Section 8.
This Project Ordinance is adopted on May 2, 2022 and expires two years
following receipt of the final settlement distribution.
Social Services Renovations at Northgate
County Engineer Paxton Arthurs said recently the County advertised bidding of the Northgate
Renovation for the Department of Social Services (DSS) and had the bid opening on April 19th.
There was good competition with six contractors submitting bids; unfortunately, due to rising
material and equipment prices, the low bid came in above the estimated construction cost by
$40,382. A copy of the bid tabulation sheet which includes a description of the alternate items
was included in the agenda packet.
At the opening of the bids, the lowest responsible bidder was S & S Building and Development.
This is the same contractor that is finishing up the current renovation project for Child Support
and the Criminal Division of the Sheriff’s Office.
In order to proceed with this project, Mr. Arthurs asked that the Board take the following
actions:
Accept Alternates 1 – 5
Award a contract to S & S Building and Development in the amount of $ 1,318,792 for the
renovation of the DSS space at Northgate Commons.
Authorize the County Manager to sign the Contract.
On motion of McDowell, seconded by Haywood, the Board voted 5-0 to 1) accept Alternates 1-
5, 2) award a contract to S&S Building and Development in the amount of $1,318,792 for the
renovation of the DSS space at Northgate Commons, and 3) authorize the County Manager to sign
the contract.
Commissioner McDowell suggested that Commissioners attend Social Services Board
meetings. They are very informative. These meetings are the third Wednesday of the month at
3:30 p.m. He invited the Commissioners to attend a Social Services Board meeting.
Courthouse Renovation Capital Project Ordinance
Mr. Arthurs said in February 2020, the Board authorized the courthouse renovation project. In
order to account for all costs related to the project, a multi-year capital project fund was
established, separate from the General Fund. G.S. 159-13.2 states “a project ordinance authorizes
all appropriations necessary for the completion of the project and neither it nor any part of it need
be readopted in any subsequent fiscal year.”
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This project is being funded with county reserves dedicated for capital. The General Fund has
previously transferred the $2,236,729 to fund the project. However, additional costs will be
incurred to complete the front desk area and cover higher than expected furniture costs.
Accordingly, a budget amendment is needed to update the total project cost by $26,000.
County Attorney Ben Morgan said the new layout is very efficient.
Chairman Frye said this is the third round of changes to the original plan.
On motion of Haywood, seconded by Allen, the Board voted 5-0 to approve the Budget
Amendment #4 to the Courthouse Renovation Capital Project, as follows:
2021-2022 Budget Ordinance
General Fund—Budget Amendment #57
Revenues Increase Decrease
Appropriated Fund Balance $26,000
Appropriations Increase Decrease
Transfer to Courthouse Renovation
$26,000
Capital Project
Courthouse Renovation Capital Project Ordinance
Amendment #4
Revenues Increase Decrease
Transfer from General Fund $26,000
Appropriations Increase Decrease
Furniture and Equipment $7,100
Construction $18,900
County Manager’s Update
th
Mr. Johnson reminded the Board of an upcoming Zoning appeal on May 9 at 6 p.m.
Commissioners Update
Vice-Chairman Allen said there is an upcoming North Carolina Association of County
Commissioners (NCACC) meeting and asked the other board members to attend. He thanked Fire
Marshal Erik Beard for managing the blasting process at the Megasite. Citizens will be notified
via Randolph Electronic Alert Communication Technology (REACT) system by Jared Byrd when
the blasting will happen.
Commissioner Haywood encouraged citizens to sign up for the REACT notifications.
Vice-Chairman Allen said he’s heard that some of the roads near the Megasite are being
damaged by large trucks. Chairman Frye said he mentioned this to Mike Fox. Vice-Chairman
Allen said this issue needs to be rectified before winter.
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Adjournment
At 8:13 p.m. on motion of Allen, seconded by Haywood, the Board voted 5-0 to adjourn.
________________________________ ________________________________
Darrell Frye, Chairman David Allen
________________________________ _________________________________
Kenny Kidd Maxton McDowell
________________________________ _________________________________
Hope Haywood Sarah Pack, Deputy Clerk to the Board
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