Loading...
110623 November 6, 2023 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, Clerk to the Board Dana Crisco, and Deputy Clerk to the Board Jenny Parks. Pastor Bill Hatfield gave the invocation, and everyone recited the Pledge of Allegiance. The meeting was livestreamed on Facebook and YouTube. Special Recognitions Lieutenant Scott Stockner retired on August 31, 2023, service. Lt. Stockner was recognized by Sheriff Greg Seabolt, after which, 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. Sybil Burgess Murray, 9833 Hwy. 64 East, Ramseur, NC, thanked the Board for acknowledging the concerns of the Save Our Staley Committee and the Staley community. They appreciated input they were allowed to provide at the Growth Management Public Hearing on October 26, 2023. She felt like their voices were heard during the public comment period of this meeting. Consent Agenda Chairman Frye asked if there were any items the Board would like to pull from the Consent Agenda. Commissioner Haywood asked Sheriff Greg Seabolt about the use of restricted funds for ted with them. He said everyone on patrol has one. Commissioner Haywood asked about the life span of the cameras. Colonel Aundrea Azelton stated the funds are being used to pay for the license fees and the Cloud storage for the cameras every year. Colonel Azelton said they have a retention policy with the company that provides the cameras so they can bookmark and preserve any video they need. Commissioner Kidd stated he would like to pull Item H off the Consent Agenda and vote on it individually. On motion of Allen, seconded by McDowell, the Board voted 5-0 to approve the Consent Agenda, as follows: approve Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting Minutes of October 2, 2023, and Special Meeting Minutes of September 25, 2023 and October 16, 2023; 11/06/23 approve Budget Amendment , as follows: 2023-2024 Budget Ordinance General FundBudget Amendment #35 Decrease Revenues Increase Restricted Fund Balance Appropriated $33,490 Appropriations Increase Decrease Sheriff $33,490 approve Fire Fighter Relief Funds Nominations; adopt Adoption Awareness Proclamation as follows: WHEREAS, November is Nationally celebrated as ADOPTION AWARENESS MONTH to express the right of every child to grow up in a permanent, secure, and loving family; and WHEREAS, caring adults can make all the difference in the lives of young people, sibling groups, children with special needs teenagers; and WHEREAS, the Randolph County Department of Social Services serves nearly 208 children in substitute care who live apart from their birth families, and is the permanent plan for 68 of these children; and WHEREAS, Randolph County actively promotes the timely adoption of children and 59 adoptions have been finalized since June 2022, some of whom have special needs: and WHEREAS, children waiting for adoptive families and those families who have adopted these children require and deserve community support; and Adoption Month is an opportunity to celebrate foster and adoptive families and spread awareness on behalf of the hundreds of children in foster care in North Carolina who continue to wait for a loving and permanent family. NOW, THEREFORE, the Randolph County Board of Commissioners does hereby proclaim November 2023 as ADOPTION AWARENESS MONTH in our county, and we urge our citizens to recognize and support this observance. Approve Budget Amendment Workforce Development Fund ($513,943O), as follows: 2023-2024 Budget Ordinance Workforce Development FundBudget Amendment #36 Revenues Increase Decrease Restricted Intergovernmental $750,000 Appropriated Fund Balance $513,943 Appropriations Increase Decrease Randolph Community College $116,287 Randolph County Schools $92,602 Asheboro City Schools $27,168 reappoint Reid Pell and Kemp Davis to the Randolph County Planning and Zoning Board; approve Budget Amendment I-74 Industrial Center #5 (14,630), as follows: Randolph I-74 Industrial Center Sewer Capital Project Fund Budget Amendment #5 Revenues Increase Decrease Appropriations Increase Decrease Professional Services $14,630 11/06/23 Construction $14,630 approve the MOU for the High Point Metropolitan Planning Organization; approve Project Amendment #5 Historic Courthouse ($20,000), as follows: Historic Courthouse Capital Project Fund Budget Amendment #5 Revenues Increase Decrease Appropriations Increase Decrease Professional Services $20,000 Construction $20,000 approve Budget Amendment Public Health ($5,000), as follows: 2023-2024 General Fund Budget Amendment #37 Revenues Increase Decrease Restricted Intergovernmental $5,000 Appropriations Increase Decrease Public Health $5,000 approve the appointment of Taylor Wright and the reappointments of Samantha Varney, Jasmine Jones, and Charmaine Ford to the Randolph County Juvenile Crime Prevention Council; approve Budget Amendment Social Services ($6,643), as follows: 2023-2024 General Fund Budget Amendment #38 Revenues Increase Decrease Restricted Intergovernmental $6,643 Appropriations Increase Decrease Social Services $6,643 appoint Alvin Battle to the Randolph Community College Board of Trustees; approve Budget Amendment Public Health ($68,065), as follows: 2023-2024 General Fund Budget Amendment #39 Revenues Increase Decrease Restricted Intergovernmental $68,065 Appropriations Increase Decrease Public Health $68,065 approve Budget Amendment Site Development Capital Project Fund Amendment #19 ($170,000), as follows: 11/06/23 Site Development Capital Project Ordinance Budget Amendment #19 Revenues Increase Decrease Miscellaneous $170,000 Appropriations Increase Decrease Miscellaneous $170,000 adopt Resolution of Operation Green Light as follows: RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF OPERATION GREEN LIGHT WHEREAS, the residents of Randolph County have great respect, admiration, and the utmost gratitude for all of the men and women who have selflessly served our country and this community in the Armed Forces; and WHEREAS, the contributions and sacrifices of the men and women who served in the Armed Forces and who have paid the high price for freedom by placing themselves of life enjoyed by our citizens; and WHEREAS, Veterans continue to serve our community in the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, religious groups, civil service, and by functioning as County Veteran Service Officers to help former fellow service members access more than $52 billion in federal health, disability, and compensation benefits each year; and WHEREAS, approximately 200,000 service members transition to civilian communities annually and an estimated 20 percent increase will occur in the near future; and WHEREAS, studies indicate that 44-72 percent of service members experience high levels of stress during transition from military to civilian life and are at a high risk for suicide during their first year after military service. WHEREAS, Randolph County wishes to honor the service and sacrifice of our men and women in uniform transitioning from active service as well as those who are already Veterans. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Randolph County Board of Commissioners does hereby declare the County as a Green Light for Veterans County from November 6th through November 12th and asks citizens to display a green light at their homes and places of business. approve Healthcare Grant Scope of Work; approve the updates to the Purchasing Policy; adopt a Resolution to Update the Minority Business Outreach Plan as follows: RESOLUTION TO AMEND THE RANDOLPH COUNTY MINORITY BUSINESS OUTREACH PLAN WHEREAS, in April, 2004, the Randolph County Board of Commissioners adopted the Minority Business Outreach Plan, designed to identify minority businesses that can perform public building projects and to implement outreach efforts to encourage minority business participation in these projects; and WHEREAS, the North Carolina General Assembly recently amended the -128.2(g) to include an Employee Stock Ownership Plan company in which at least fifty-one percent (51%) of the stock 11/06/23 is owned by one or more minority persons or socially and economically disadvantaged individuals. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Randolph County Board of Commissioners hereby amends the definition of minority business in the Randolph County Minority Business Outreach Plan to include an Employee Stock Ownership Plan company in which at least fifty-one percent (51%) of the stock is owned by one or more minority persons or socially and economically disadvantaged individuals in accordance with the requirements of N.C.G.S. 143-128.2(g). AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED Establish a Verifiable Percentage Goal for Participation by Minority Business in the Awarding of Building Construction Contracts Awarded Pursuant to N.C.G.S. 143- ed and replaced with this resolution. Approve Budget Amendment follows: 2023-2024 Budget Ordinance General Fund Budget Amendment #40 Revenues Increase Decrease Miscellaneous $600 Appropriations Increase Decrease Sheriff $600 On motion by Haywood, seconded by Allen, on a vote of 4-1, with Kidd voting no, the Board voted to appoint Ashley Duggins and Brad Long, and reappoint Alan Ferguson to the Randolph County Board of Health. Veterans Court Project Sheriff Greg Seabolt stated Randolph County is home to over 8,000 veterans, nearly 6% of the Often occurring as a result of time serving our country, the National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that one in ten veterans in the United States have been diagnosed with a substance user disorder. Impacted by critical issues like substance use, pain, suicide risk, trauma, and homelessness, our veterans face serious hardships that, without intervention, can lead to chronic health conditions, incarceration, and death. To begin to address some of these concerns and following -level offenses to vital substance use and mental health treatment. Randolph County requested and was approved for $851,663.00 in federal Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) dolph County Clerk of Court, the NC Division Community Corrections, and local defense attorneys and mental and behavioral health providers to estab - and post-adjudication court which will serve approximately 80 veterans per year. The estimated length of program participation will be a 11/06/23 minimum of 16 months and a maximum of 24 months with an average of 18 months for each participant. The Bureau of Justice Assistance anticipates requests for continuation and enhancement funding from successful applicants. Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 VTC Coordinator salary and benefits $80,069.00 $82,586.00 $84,860.00 Volunteer Mentor Coordinator $5,805.60 $5,805.60 $5,805.60 Travel $6,510 $6,510 $6,510 Seven Volunteer Mentors $16,255.68 $16,255.68 $16,255.68 Treatment provider contract $137,982.00 $137,982.00 $137,982.00 District attorney services $15,482.00 $15,557.00 $15,884.00 Supplies, case management software, and drug testing $19,589.72 $18,988 $18,988 Sheriff Seabolt introduced Laura Pate. Ms. Pate was instrumental in applying for and receiving this grant. Ms. Pate said it took approximately two years to write this grant and she is appreciative to the Board for their consideration. Commissioner Haywood stated she commends the vision and the work of seeking this grant. She attended several sessions at the National Conference for County Commissioners over a year ago that talked about serving Veterans. She is excited to see this grant be awarded to the Judge Robert Wilkins spoke about his time in the service. He said he attempted to seek out funding three years ago for this, but there was none to be had. Judge Wilkins thanked Sheriff Seabolt and Ms. Pate for their efforts in locating and getting approval for this three-year program for the Veterans Treatment Court. Judge Wilkins recognized Veterans Service Officer Elizabeth Woods and thanked her for her service to the veterans of Randolph County. He said she has done an excellent job advocating for veterans. Ms. Woods thanked Sheriff Seabolt and Ms. Pate for their efforts in seeking out this grant. Sheriff Seabolt stated they are asking the Commissioners to accept this federal award of $851,663, approve a new temporary grant-funded Conversion position with a starting salary of $55,503 with a 2% increase each year, and to approve the budget amendment covering the remaining seven months of FY23-24 to the General Fund. On motion by Kidd, seconded by McDowell, the Board voted 5-0 to 1) authorize the Assistant County Manager/Finance Officer to accept the Federal Award of $851,663, 2) add a Veterans Treatment Court Coordinator to Grade 169 of the County Law Enforcement Classification Plan effective December 1, 2023, and 3) approve the associated Budget Amendment of $164,322 as follows: 2023-2024 Budget Ordinance Budget Amendment #41 Revenues Increase Decrease Restricted Intergovernmental $164,322 Appropriations Increase Decrease Sheriff $164,322 11/06/23 City of Trinity Strategic Planning Funding Stevie Cox, Trinity City Manager, stated in 2001, the City of Trinity acquired a 31.38-acre site that was going to be used for the construction of a new city hall and a park. At this same time, the City had a parks and recreation master plan conducted that gave several options for the development of the parks and a phased construction approach. Furthermore, it included a plan for the development of greenways and trail systems. Ms. Cox gave a brief PowerPoint presentation regarding the request. Recently, the City has approved ten residential development subdivisions that will create over 1,400 homes over the next five years. population will grow from 7,100 to almost 10,000 people over this period. There will be an increase in demand for recreational opportunities for families and adults located inside the Trinity City Limits. In 2022, the City Council established a goal for the construction of a new park that would benefit our residents. This was included in the City Capital Improvement Plan for Fiscal Year 2022 2023 and Fiscal Year 2023 2024. In 2023, the City Council approved and adopted the new Vision Trinity Comprehensive non-residential development. Trinity residents highlight the need for more recreation space, greenways, and recreational activities for all ages, especially the youth. Residential throughout the public participation in creating this comprehensive plan, wanted more recreation spaces in planned parks The Randolph County Strategic Planning funds would allow the City of Trinity to move forward with securing a firm to develop a Master Plan for this site. This would include the construction of a new park and the development of greenways and trails. Once the Master Plan has been completed, the City will be able to leverage the results of this study to secure a Parks and Recreation Trust Fund Grant. In addition, the city will continue to seek additional funding to complete each phase of this park. The park would allow for the city to have dedicated public space for community events and festivals. Furthermore, it is a goal for this park to serve as a Vpark to remember those who have served and given their lives on behalf of our Country. The City of Trinity is seeking an $80,000 Strategic Planning Grant from the Randolph County Board of Commissioners to cover the cost of a Parks and Recreation Master Plan for the construction of a multi- purpose park and recreation complex. The projected end date would be November 2024 with the adoption of this plan. Councilman Robert Walker stated the City of Trinity has a plan that will give their citizens a safe place to go. He feels it is an ideal situation for the substation that is in front of the property as well. He said he has lived in Trinity all of his life and would like to see this project move forward. Vice-Chairman Allen asked how they came up with the $80,000 to hire a consultant. Mr. Cox said they looked at what it cost them to do their Comprehensive Land Use Plan and he feels they would spend all of the $80,000 that is being asked for. He stated the City of Trinity is projected to spend approximately $15,000 of in-kind contributions with staff time towards this project. The City will also look to businesses in their community for contributions. This funding will be used for the actual park itself and not the study. Vice-Chairman Allen stated this was the first item for the City of Trinity funded out of the Strategic Planning Funds. 11/06/23 On motion by Frye, seconded by Allen, the Board voted 5-0, to approve funding for the City of Trinity Strategic Planning Project and the associated Budget Amendment in the amount of $80,000, as follows: 2023-2024 Budget Ordinance Budget Amendment #42 Revenues Increase Decrease Transfer from Well-Being Reserve $80,000 Appropriations Increase Decrease Other Cultural and Recreational $80,000 Appropriations Infrastructure Update Williams Johnson, Assistant County Manager, stated with the recent passing of the 2023 North Carolina budget securing over $85 million for Randolph County infrastructure projects, staff is working quickly to continue implementation of the Randolph County Water and Sewer Master Plan. He presented updates on current projects along with future action items that will need approval from the Board. Mr. Johnson gave an update on the I-74 Industrial Center Water and Sewer Improvements. In March 2022, the Board approved a contract for sewer design with The Wooten Company. The design is 100% complete and the bidding is set to begin in January 2024, with the construction completion date of January 2025. Mr. Johnson gave an update on the PTRWA/Asheboro Water Line. In August 2023, the Board voted to award a design contract to The Wooten Company for the design of a water line from PTRWA to Asheboro along I-74. The survey and design were completed in September 2023 with a construction end date of December 2025. Mr. Johnson gave an update on the Wolfspeed Water Main Extension. With the City of Asheboro selecting a design-build team, Randolph County must decide soon whether to participate in the project by upsizing the proposed waterline along U.S. 64. Over the coming months, staff will make a recommendation to the Board to increase the line size for additional capacity. Mr. Johnson gave an update on the Seagrove-Ulah Wastewater Improvements. This project, which includes the replacement of an existing pump station along with 9,075 LF of force main to serve Uwharrie Charter and the Pinewood residential development was put out for bid in October 2023. Bids were due November 2, 2023, and the Board will be voting tonight on the bid results for contractor selection. Mr. Johnson gave an update on the Seagrove-Ulah Wastewater Treatment Plant Expansion. Despite recent improvements including identifying stormwater infiltration, the system is still over capacity. With growth pressures in the Seagrove area, along with an already overburdened system, it is crucial to begin looking at the expansion of the treatment plant. Staff believes this project would be a good ARPA Funds Project, the timeline for ARPA funding is running out and this project would easily qualify. Staff anticipates bringing before the Board of Commissioners a contract for design services at the December meeting. 11/06/23 Mr. Johnson said the implementation of the Randolph County Master Plan will have positive impacts on our community. Collaboration from all partners is the key to success, which includes the Town of Randleman, the Town of Franklinville, the Town of Liberty, the Town of Ramseur, the City of Asheboro, and the Piedmont Triad Water Authority. Mr. Johnson thanked the Board of Commissioners for considering these items and their continuous work to improve the lives of Randolph County citizens. Commissioner Haywood asked if the replacement of the tank would help the Town of Seagrove. Mr. Johnson stated it would. He stated that expanding their plant would facilitate the growth needed and allow them to move forward with their projects. Vice-Chairman Allen stated he wants to make sure these expansion plans do not fall upon the County for maintenance. He wants the partners involved to know that these funds are pass-through funds, and they need to take advantage of them, but not rely on them. Paxton Arthurs, County Engineer, stated on October 10th, bidding for the Uwharrie Pump Station and Force Main was advertised and Bid Opening was scheduled for November 2nd. This project is part of the Seagrove Ulah Water District and will be turned over to them after completion. Funds for the project are being provided through an ARPA Grant from the NC Department of Environmental Quality. The system will serve Uwharrie Charter School and Pinewood Townhome Development, along with the proposed Loves Truck Stop and New Hope Church Road Development Site. Utilities, Inc. was the lowest bidder for $885,011. Commissioner McDowell said Uwharrie Charter School is the fourth largest charter school in North Carolina and is the largest site charter school in the state. He thanked Mr. Arthurs for his work on these projects and finding solutions to these issues. On motion by McDowell, seconded by Kidd, the Board voted 5-0, to adopt the Resolution of Tentative Award for the Seagrove-Ulah Uwharrie Pump Staton and Force Main, as follows: RESOLUTION OF TENTATIVE AWARD FOR THE SEAGROVE-ULAH UWHARRIE PUMP STATION & FORCE MAIN (FUNDING NO. NCDEQ-DWI SRP-W-ARP-0205) WHEREAS, RANDOLPH COUNTY, North Carolina has received bids, pursuant to duly advertisement notice therefore, for construction of the SEAGROVE-ULAH UWHARRIE PUMP STATION & FORCE MAIN project, and WHEREAS, the LKC ENGINEERING, PLLC consulting Engineers have reviewed the bids; and WHEREAS, was the lowest bidder for the SEAGROVE-ULAH UWHARRIE PUMP STATION & FORCE MAIN project, in the total bid amount of $885,011.00, and WHEREAS, the consulting Engineer recommends TENTATIVE AWARD to the lowest bidder. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that TENTATIVE AWARD is made to the lowest bidder of in the Total Bid Amount of $885,011.00. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that such TENTATIVE AWARD be contingent upon the approval of the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality. 11/06/23 being provided through an ARPA Grant from NC Dept. of Environmental Quality. The system will serve the Uwharrie Charter School, and Pinewood Townhome Development, along with the proposed Loves Truck Stop and New Hope Church Road Development Site. Mr. Arthurs gave a PowerPoint presentation on these updates. Asheboro City Schools Capital Project Update Dr. Aaron Woody, Superintendent of Asheboro City Schools, stated Asheboro City Schools is their current year projects under their Ten-Year Plan, Asheboro City Schools wants to make the Board aware of an unexpected facility need that occurred at Charles W. McCrary Elementary School in August 2023. Dr. Woody shared a PowerPoint presentation. During a routine maintenance inspection, an issue with the pipes that support the HVAC chilled water system was discovered. The HVAC system could no longer be used due to safety concerns. Temporary air was provided by Brady Trane immediately so the delay of the start of school at McCrary would not be interrupted. Dr. Woody said they have contracted with Brady Tane to begin the repairs needed. The repair work takes place after school at night and on weekends to minimize the disruption to learning during the school day. The project is expected to be completed within three months. The total cost of the temporary air and the repairs is expected to be $1.6 million. Due to the cost of this unforeseen event, Asheboro City Schools will need to use the Capital Outlay Appropriation provided by the Randolph County Board of Commissioners for their Ten Year Plan. The Capital Outlay Appropriation will support the repair cost of $872,000. They will use their Current Expense Funds to cover the temporary air cost of approximately $700,000. Waste Management Franchise Ordinance Amendments Aimee Scotton, Associate County Attorney, said the County adopted the Waste Management Franchise Ordinance in 2014, it was modified once before, in 2019. Waste Management has requested further modifications of the ordinance. Specifically, the modifications are summarized as follows: Section 6(a) of the ordinance has been modified to provide that the property covered by the franchise has expanded to include the entire 190-acre landfill, including both the eastern and western sides of the power lines; Section 6(c) of the ordinance updates the number of existing convenience centers owned by the County from 4 to 6; Section 9 has been modified to increase the projected useful life of the landfill to 25-30 years to reflect use of the entire site. Ms. Scotton stated last month, the Board held the required public hearing regarding these changes, as well as holding the first of two votes regarding the adoption of the modified Franchise Ordinance. If these changes are approved tonight, the Operating Agreement between the County and Waste Management will also need to be amended accordingly. On motion by Kidd, seconded by Haywood, the Board voted 5-0, to approve the Waste Management Franchise Agreement Ordinance Amendment and corresponding changes to the Operating Agreement between the County and Waste Management. 11/06/23 Project Archive Economic Development Kevin Franklin, President-Randolph County Economic Development Corporation (EDC), stated, while they typically reveal the company name at a public hearing, the company is not prepared to make a public announcement and has requested that we reference the project name Project Archive in these proceedings rather than the company name. Project Archive is a large company with over 8,000 employees in the U.S. The company has identified the shell building in the Liberty Business Park as a suitable location for a warehousing operation and has entered into a memorandum of understanding with the property owner to lease the building. A formal lease agreement is pending. The project building, located at 7280 Liberty Park Ave in Liberty, is an 85,000 sf building that has been vacant since its construction in 2001 and will be acquired by a developer in 2022. The original construction was as a speculative shell building and will require substantial upfits to return it to a condition suitable for occupancy. While the hearing notice and resolution reference a $1M investment which is more than sufficient to capture the proposed Building Reuse Grant, actual investment in upfits are anticipated to exceed $4M, with an additional machinery and equipment investment of more than $2.5M. Total investment over five years could exceed $7M. Project Archive is committed to creating and retaining forty-one new full-time jobs in Liberty within the two-year term of the Building Reuse Grant. They will also retain five full-time positions in an adjacent county. The average wage of the new positions will be at least $45,000, adding more than $1.8M in the new annual payroll when all of the positions are filled. Project Archive is eligible for a Building Reuse Grant from NC Commerce for $325,000 (~$7,900 per job) to assist with the renovation expenses. The Town of Liberty has authorized submission of the grant application; grant awards will be approved on December 7. If awarded, a five percent local government cash match of $16,250 is required. On behalf of the town, the EDC is requesting that Randolph County consider participating by committing to provide an equal share of the match or $8,125 per unit of local government. The Town of Liberty will manage the grant and the County will have no financial liability related to the project. Chairman Frye opened the public hearing and closed it after no one wished to speak. On motion by Allen, seconded by McDowell, the Board voted 5-0, to adopt the Resolution for Economic Development Match and approve the associated Budget Amendment in the amount of $8,125 for Project Archive, as follows: RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY OF RANDOLPH TO PROVIDE ONE-HALF OF THE LOCAL MATCH REQUIREMENT FOR AN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PROJECT 11/06/23 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 Liberty Park Avenue in Liberty, a shell building which has been vacant since 2001 and is in need of significant upfits; and WHEREAS, in upfitting this warehouse space, the Company has stated its commitment to invest an amount equal to or in excess of one million dollars ($1,000,000) in real property improvements, in addition to retaining four (4) full-time jobs, and creating forty-one (41) new full-time jobs in the County and Town with an average wage of forty-five thousand dollars ($45,000); and WHEREAS, the Town of Liberty has voted to authorize the filing, by the Town, of an application with the North Carolina Department of Commerce, Rural Development Division, 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 three hundred twenty- five thousand dollars ($325,000), requiring a local match of sixteen thousand two hundred fifty dollars ($16,250); and WHEREAS, the Town has requested that Randolph County provide one-half of the required local match for this project, or eight thousand one hundred twenty-five dollars ($8,125); and WHEREAS, the Board of Commissioners of Randolph County has held a public hearing to consider whether to participate in this project by providing the requested one-half of the local match, eight thousand one hundred twenty-five dollars ($8,125); and WHEREAS, this economic development project will stimulate and stabilize the local economy, promote business in the County and Town, and result in the creation of a number of jobs in the County and Town; and www.RandolphCountyNC.gov WHEREAS, the County has in its General Fund available revenues sufficient to fund this economic development project; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Commissioners of Randolph County, this 6th day of November, 2023, as follows: Section 1. The County is authorized to expend up to eight thousand one hundred twenty-five dollars ($8,125) of County funds to provide one-half of the required local match for the Building Reuse Grant applied for on behalf of the Company by the Town of Liberty. Section 2. Participation by the County in this economic development is expressly contingent upon the approval of the grant application by the North Carolina Department of Commerce and the provision of the local match by the Town of Liberty. 2023-2024 Budget Ordinance Budget Amendment #43 Revenues Increase Decrease Appropriated Fund Balance $8,125 Appropriations Increase Decrease Other Economic and Physical $8,125 Development 11/06/23 Cooperative Extension Memo of Agreement between NC State Extension and Randolph County consideration and approval for the update of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the NC State Extension and Randolph County. This update reflects our commitment to enhancing the services and support we provide to the residents of Randolph County, and it is in alignment with our longstanding positive relationship. The NC State Extension has maintained a strong and fruitful partnership with Randolph County for many years, consistently working towards the betterment of our community. This enduring alliance has allowed us to address the evolving needs and challenges of our county's residents effectively. Mr. Sherin said this updated MOA paves the way for a renewed and strengthened partnership. This agreement will set us up for success as we embark on this exciting journey with the Farm, Food, and Family Education Center (F3EC). Mr. Sherin stated he is kindly requestsupport in approving this MOA update, which will help them build upon the strong foundation of cooperation and collaboration that we have enjoyed with Randolph County for many years. Vice-Chairman Allen asked if this updated Memo of Agreement included any new items that would affect operations. Mr. Sherin said it will not affect operations, it is just an update on wording and is a refresher agreement. On motion by Allen, seconded by Haywood, the Board voted 5-0, to approve the Memorandum of Agreement between NC State Extension and Randolph County as a Lock-In County. NC Tobacco Trust Fund Grant for the Far, Food and Family Education Center (F3EC) Kenny Sherin, Cooperative Extension Director, stated he would like to recommend the acceptance of the NC Tobacco Trust Fund Commission grant for $596,851 in support of the cost of construction/equipment of the F3EC. This grant presents a significant opportunity for our community to enhance agricultural education, support local farmers, and promote family well-being in Randolph County. The proposed F3EC represents a valuable initiative that aligns with the County's commitment to sustainable agriculture, community development, and education. Accepting this grant will not only provide financial support for the construction of the center but will also further our mission to empower our residents with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in the agricultural sector. Mr. Sherin stated this funding is generated by budget approval from the NC General Assembly each year. The General Assembly allocates funds to this Commission, and the Commission votes on how to disperse those funds. Vice-Chairman Allen said he appreciates Mr. Sherin and his staff for all of their hard work in submitting this grant application. 11/06/23 Mr. Sherin invited everyone to the groundbreaking ceremony for the F3EC that will be held on November 13, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. on the site. On motion by Allen, seconded by Haywood, the Board voted 5-0, to accept the Grant Award from the NC Tobacco Trust Fund Commission in the amount of $596,851 to be used for the Farm, Food, and Family Education Center and approve the associated Budget Amendment as follows: Capital Reserve Fund Budget Amendment #3 Revenues Increase Decrease Appropriations Increase Decrease Transfer to the Agricultural Center $596,851 Capital Project Transfer to the General Fund $596,851 Agricultural Center Capital Project Ordinance Budget Amendment #9 Revenues Increase Decrease Restricted Intergovernmental $596,851 Transfer from the Capital Reserve $596,851 Appropriations Increase Decrease New Ambulance Purchase Chief Donovan Davis, Emergency Services, stated pursuant to G.S. 143-129 (e)(3), which he is requesting the approval to purchase two (2) 2023 Type III Chevy G-4500 AEV ambulances through the NC State Contract Pricing via the competitive bidding program. They have researched other competitive Compared to other contracts, they found that the NC contract is at least ten percent cheaper, or the other contracts only offer bids for chassis, not including the patient compartment and specialized medical equipment. This will be a remount conversion on a new chassis. After adding the patient compartment and specialty equipment, the most cost-effective price they could find that met their requirements for the remounts, is $191,414 per ambulance, from Precision Rescue Vehicles, in Arden, NC. The current EMS budget allocates the funds, and Precision Rescue Vehicles is an authorized dealer through the NC contract. The total price has decreased from previous purchases because they are forced to purchase gas-burning trucks. 11/06/23 Chief Davis said he is requesting the Board to approve the purchase of two (2) 2023 Type III Chevy G-4500 AEV ambulances from Precision Rescue Vehicles, Inc., of Arden, NC, for the total amount of $382,828 under NC State Contract. Vice-Chairman Allen asked if the County has used Precision Rescue Vehicles Inc. in the past. Chief Davis said yes. Chief Davis said they are still waiting on two ambulances that were ordered last year from Northwestern along with two others that were also ordered three years ago. On motion by Kidd, seconded by McDowell, the Board voted 5-0, to approve the purchase of two (2) 2023 Type III Chevy G-4500 AEV ambulances from Precision Rescue Vehicles Inc., of Arden, NC, for the total amount of $382,828 under NC State Contract. Sandy Creek Bridge Bid Results Paxton Arthurs, County Engineer, recognized and thanked the Randolph County Trails Coordinator, Mary Joan Pugh, who has been instrumental in this process. He stated he had planned to present the results of the Sandy Creek Pedestrian Bridge Construction Bids to the Board in October. Unfortunately, only two bids were received, and the opening had to be postponed. After readvertising the Bid, a second bid opening was scheduled on October 11th. At that time, we received 2 additional bids for a total of 4. He shared the list of bids with the Board. These bids contain an alternate for trail construction. However, after a review of the bids, it was decided not to accept the alternate and to establish the award on the base bid only. Therefore, the low bid was received from Eastern Structures, LLC. This company has the license and relevant work history to handle this project. The Deep River Trial will connect communities all along the Deep River. The trail will be an anchor for recreation and tourism in Randolph County, connecting people with nature and the river. The Sandy Creek Pedestrian Bridge and Tail will connect Franklinville to Ramseur and will be 3.25 miles. There will be a groundbreaking in December for this project if awarded tonight. The projected opening will be in Spring 2024. There are additional sections to be completed in Franklinville, Cedar Falls, Ramseur, and Randleman that will total 12 miles. Commissioner Haywood said she is glad to see these trails being built. They have been a tourism addition for that area, and she was complimentary of the logo. On motion by Haywood, seconded by Allen, the Board voted 5-0, to award the bid for the Sandy Creek Pedestrian Bridge Construction for Eastern Structures, LLC in the amount of $530,000, and to authorize the County Manager to sign the contract. Chairman Frye said during the October 2, 2023 Commissioners Meeting, he asked for the about the initial request. 11/06/23 On motion by Frye, seconded by Kidd, the Board voted 5-0, to approve Opioid Funding for the services rendered and approve the associated Budget Amendment, as follows: RESOLUTION BY THE COUNTY OF RANDOLPH TO DIRECT THE EXPENDITURE OF OPIOID SETTLEMENT FUNDS WHEREAS Randolph County has joined national settlement agreements with companies engaged in the manufacturing, distribution, and dispensing of opioids, including settlements with drug distributors Cardinal, McKesson, and AmerisourceBergen, and the drug maker Johnson & Johnson and its subsidiary Janssen Pharmaceuticals; WHEREAS the allocation, use, and reporting of funds stemming from these national governed by the Memorandum of Agreement Between the State of North Carolina and Local Governme WHEREAS Randolph County has received Opioid Settlement Funds pursuant to these national settlement agreements and deposited the Opioid Settlement Funds in a separate special revenue fund as required by section D of the MOA; WHEREAS section E.6 of the MOA states: E.6. Process for drawing from special revenue funds. a. Budget item or resolution required. Opioid Settlement Funds can be used for a purpose when the Governing Body includes in its budget or passes a separate resolution authorizing the expenditure of a stated amount of Opioid Settlement Funds for that purpose or those purposes during a specified period of time. b. Budget item or resolution details. The budget or resolution should (i) indicate that it is an authorization for expenditure of opioid settlement funds; (ii) state the specific strategy or strategies the county or municipality intends to fund pursuant to Option A or Option B, using the item letter and/or number in Exhibit A or Exhibit B to identify each funded strategy, and (iii) state the amount dedicated to each strategy for a stated period of time. NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, in alignment with the NC MOA, Randolph County authorizes the expenditure of opioid settlement funds as follows: 1. First authorized strategy a. Name of strategy: Recovery Support Services: Transportation and peer support services. b. Strategy is included in Exhibit A c. d. Amount authorized for this strategy: $150,000 e. Period of time during which expenditure may take place: Start date November 1, 2023 through end date June 30, 2026 f. center for Randolph County residents. To support recovery for individuals with opioid use disorder and co-existing transportation services to include behavioral health/substance use services. The center will also include educational and supportive programs for people in recovery as well as their families. g. 11/06/23 The total dollar amount of Opioid Settlement Funds appropriated across the above named and authorized strategies is $150,000. 2023-2024 Budget Ordinance Opioid Abatement Fund Budget Amendment #44 Revenues Increase Decrease Appropriations Increase Decrease $50,000 Contingency Recovery support services: $50,000 The County Manager Hal Johnson had nothing to report at this time. Commissioners Update Commissioner Haywood reminded everyone to notice the green light as you exit the building. This is for Operation Green Light to raise awareness of the value of Veterans in the community. She encouraged those who employ Veterans to do something similar in honor of our Veterans. Commissioner Haywood said that in February 2024, there will be screenings of a documentary that is being filmed by the NC Association of County Commissioners that will reflect what Veterans face today. It also will highlight Veterans Services and connect the Veterans to them in order for them to get the services they deserve. Vice-Chairman Allen said with the funding in the budget that was passed by the legislature, mental and behavioral health in North Carolina is going to change. There were changes in the budget bill that will allow the Secretary of Health and Human Services to become an appointed official with total authority over mental and behavioral health systems. For Randolph County, the Sandhills Treatment Center is the Local Management Entity-Managed Care Organization (LME-MCO) The Secretary will now have total authority to terminate contracts and to move counties to different LME-MCOs. Adjournment At 7:57 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 11/06/23 ________________________________ _________________________________ Hope Haywood Jenny Parks, Deputy Clerk to the Board 11/06/23