120312December 3, 2012
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.
Commissioners Holmes, Frye, Haywood, Kemp and Lanier were present. Dr. Bob Shacldeford, RCC
President, gave the invocation and everyone recited the Pledge of Allegiance.
Administration of Oaths of Office
The Honorable Judge Bradford Vance Long administered oaths of office to Soil & Water
Conservation District Supervisor Shane Whitaker, and Commissioners Phil Kemp and Arnold Lanier.
County Employee Service Awards Presentation
Chairman Harold Holmes and County Manager Richard Wells, assisted by Human Resources
Director Stacy Griffin, presented County employee service award certificates and a piece of pottery to
the following honorees: 15 years of service: Terri A. Peele, Emergency ,Services (not present); Steven
D. Staley, Emergency Services; Bradford R. Ellis, Health; Kimberly D. Lemmons, Information
Technology; Aimee C. Scotton, Legal; Robert M. Macon, Public Buildings; Avery B. Arrington,
,Sheriff; Mickey W. Beal, ,Sheriff; Patricia L. Carawan, ,Sheriff,• Jeffrey W. Cools, Sheriff (not present);
Roger C. Hunt, Sheriff; Barbara L. Lowrance, Sheriff (not present); David M. Joyce, Sheriff; Bernie E.
Maness, Jr., Sheriff; Thomas L. McIver, Sheriff; Bernadette M. Campbell, Social Services (not
present); Darlene Luther, Social Services (not present); Lisa C. Stern, Social Services (not present);
Kristy R. Thompson, Social ,Services. 20 years of service: Phillip D. Kemp, County Commissioner;
Wendell N. Whatley, Emergency Services; Anna M. Brower, Health (not present); Gina C. Hussey,
Health (not present); Harvey W. Jones, Health; Timothy V. Mangum, Planning & Zoning (not
present); Michael D. BlackwellSheriff; Jerry D. Brower, ,Sheriff; Phyllis L Calloway, ,Sheriff;
Christopher E. Maness, Sheriff; Keith A. Owenby Sheriff Joann D. Sapp Sheriff Edith D. Baldwin
Social ,Services; Cynthia P. Cody, Social ,Services; Ann H. Councilman, Social Services; Betty D.
Skipper, Social Services (not present); Edith C. Stallings, Social Services (not present); Sharon K.
Yorlc, Social Services; Debra T. Brady, Tax (not present); Terry M. VanVliet, T `eterans Services. 25
years of service: Ross Holt, Library; Susan D. Hayes, Health; Jennifer M. Garner, Planning &
Zoning (not present); Catha J. Wright, ,Sheriff; Sue N. King, Social Services. 30 years of service:
Darrell Frye, County Coniniissioner; Becky D. Perry, Register of Deeds; Debra P. Hill, Tax.
Public Comment Period
Pursuant to N.C.G. S. § 153A-52.1, Chairman Holmes opened the floor for public comment.
Virginia York Halverson, 1908 Leonard York Dr., Randleman, referenced the petitions
opposing a regional landfill that she had presented to the Board in October, and she presented a few
more to the Board at this meeting. She said that she was present to provide some history about the
Randolph County Cedar Falls Community Association and the Historical Society. Ms. Halverson said
that the 1848 Cedar Falls Chapel is virtually completed. This 20 -year project will be dedicated in the
spring. Ms. Halverson also announced that the publication Water Under The Bridge, T'ol. III. by
Henry Bowers, local artist and historian, has won the Willie Parker Peace Award for the third time.
Ms. Halverson said that she is proud to be a Randolph County citizen and a North Carolinian.
Melissa Brown from My Circle Of Friends Enrichment Center said that she wished to comment
on some things from last month. Last Friday, Nov. 30, marked the last day of after school daycare for
many children in Randolph County. She said the day was met with faistration, disappointment, tears
and fear of the unknown. Directors came to the Commissioners seeking help to find a resolution to the
fiinding crisis. As representatives of the citizens of Randolph County, she said they look to the
Commissioners for help, as they are advocates for needs of citizens. They also looked at the state level
for help. It seemed that no one would take a stand with them for children. At the last count, 535
vouchers were terminated on Nov. 30. She said she was not here to point fingers concerning the
spending patterns of over- and under -spending over the last four years. She hopes someone will
oversee the budget more closely so that this doesn't ever happen again. She is still hoping that the
children will be able to return to their centers. She said she spoke with Richard Park today, and for
first time, she feels that finally someone is willing to work with the directors, families and children
affected by the cuts. Ms. Brown said that the directors offered suggestions to the Board at the last
meeting and to DSS prior to the cuts. After an extended conversation with Richard Park, they are
going to work together to reduce spending, based on the lowering of school-age tuition rates
throughout the county. The goal is to reinstate as many vouchers starting with children ages 5, 6 & 7
and to do as many as possible. She was told by Mr. Park that as a government official, he was not able
to call individual centers to determine the reductions they were willing to take. This was the first day
that the directors were told that they had to present it in that form. She said that many centers are
closing; several had to close rooms, restructure their buildings, or restructure their staff, but today
there are some centers that have to start over once the cut is made. But with the new plan, some
centers are cutting tuition in half and some will cut $10, $15, $20. The directors are coming together to
collect the money that each center is willing to cut and will report back to Richard Park, who will take
that information and determine the number of children that can be reinstated. She said there was a
reduction last month of $8,000 that took place already without any cuts being made. Looking back at
the numbers, in July, 746 children were served. In August, 75 1. In September, 604, and in October,
606, so there are 71 or so remaining children that are left on the voucher school age program. She said
they were considering putting those dollars together to determine an average cost per child that is
given by a state model, which is $261 for the month of October. She said they are considering $300
and calculated that with the amount of money that could be saved per center per month per child
reinstatement could occur as soon as January or end of February. She said she is not sure if Richard
Park has spoken with the powers that be yet. But, the goal is to work together. She thinks $150,000,
and possibly more, can be saved. Also, some different money has been given to them. She told Mr.
Park that another $25,000 is being donated to DSS or reallocated to DSS from another fiend in order to
provide care for 0-5 year-olds. And then, that $25,000 could be reallocated and reverted back to the
school-age fiend as well. She said that it was disheartening to hear children's views of what was
happening to them when they think they are being kicked out. The directors want to make sure that
this doesn't happen again. The budget needs to be sustained.
Bonnie Renfro, Randolph County Economic Development Corporation President, read the
following resolution of support for the proposed regional landfill, which was adopted by the RCEDC
Board of Directors:
Resolution Of Support For Regional Landfill
Whereas, the Randolph County Board of Commissioners is considering opening a new
regional solid waste facility in Randolph County; and
Whereas, a regional landfill would generate a new revenue source for the County by reusing
an underutilized asset; and
Whereas, revenues generated by a regional landfill reduce the pressure on our property tax
rate by expanding the revenue base available to fiend local public services; and
Whereas, opening a new Subtitle D landfill in our own county would eliminate the need to
transport our solid waste to an outside facility, thereby providing a substantial savings to our
residents and businesses for their own solid waste disposal needs; and
Whereas, a regional facility would create permanent jobs, some of which will be County
positions and others that would be hired by a private contractor operating the facility; and
Whereas, a significant portion of the income from the new jobs can be expected to be spent
in the local community; and
Whereas, if such a facility is built in Randolph County, there are many economic advantages
for prospective and existing businesses that include:
— the landfill operator spending millions of dollars per year on goods and services, with a
significant portion of this business going to local vendors, which may result in additional
indirect jobs;
— future waste to energy capability, resulting in a gas -to -energy plant, which may attract
other businesses to the area (e.g., industrial park near the landfill), with a potential energy
source that would continue even after landfill closure, providing a "green energy"
alternative;
— since solid waste disposal can be a huge part of manufacturing operation costs and
necessary infrastructure, having a guaranteed local disposal option creates a competitive
advantage for manufacturing companies and businesses;
— potential post closure public amenity possibilities, such as greenways, recreational sites,
providing an enticement for prospective businesses;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Randolph County Economic
Development Board of Directors hereby supports the establishment of a regional solid waste
facility in Randolph County.
Adopted this 25th day of October in Liberty, North Carolina. FOR THE BOARD OF
DIRECTORS
Jon Nance, New Hope Church Rd., Asheboro, suggested a public referendum on landfill debt. He
said that if there is going to be money borrowed for the landfill, the public should have the opportunity
to vote on it. Also, it bothers him that it's proposed to be part County government and part private
company. He feels that partnership seems unfair to other local businesses that don't get the same
benefits. He said that government is not a business. It's not meant to constantly have to generate
higher profit margins in order to grow and expand. There must be a base somewhere. You have to cut
spending and not spend on things you don't need, so there's not a constant search for new revenue.
The landfill should be put to a vote for all of Randolph County to decide because it affects all of us.
Janet Pate, Sophia, said that she has not been able to speak at the last two meetings because she
works in Mt. Airy now due to the economy and can't get here by 6 pm. In September, she told the
Board about the treatment she received at the Guil-Rand Fire Department's annual meeting, and
followed up with an email with a summary of what had happened and asked who would be getting
back with her regarding her concerns. She hasn't received anything back yet. She said that as a
taxpayer in Randolph County and a taxpayer in the Guil-Rand Fire District, of which she is a member,
she does have a right to ask questions about money being spent. She said she was treated nudely, and
she hasn't had a resolution so far. She asked if someone would be getting back with her.
Vice Chair Frye said that he followed up extensively on the issue and got quite a different
description of what happened that night. He said the fire department has its own board. They are not
responsible to the County. We don't tell them how to nun their business. He followed up more than
once, and he talked to several people who were in attendance that night.
Ms. Pate said, "So people in attendance that night didn't verify that Walter Stanley yelled at me
and told me that I could not ask questions at that meeting? Because I have someone here that can
verify this."
Vice Chair Frye said that was not the description that he got.
Ms. Pate asked if, when she gets this kind of treatment, she's supposed to just sit back and not say
anything.
Vice Chair Frye said that he's not telling her that at all.
Ms. Pate asked if anyone from the County overlooks the Guil-Rand fire district's budget.
Vice Chair Frye said that they have their own board. The County contracts with them for services
that they provide. We contract with their board and fire department for fire service.
Commissioner Haywood said that the County does request and receive audited financial
statements from the fire departments.
Vice Chair Frye also mentioned that Guil-Rand was the first fire department to provide their
audited financial statements to the County.
Commissioner Kemp responded to Mr. Nance's comments earlier, by saying that if the County
were to actually build a regional landfill, there would be no money borrowed by the County for this
purpose. Money would be paid to the County from a contractor to get the franchise to operate it.
Jimmy Pate, Sophia, said he was in attendance at the Guil-Rand Fire Department meeting and
he's just here to back up Janet's story. She was spoken to rather nudely. She wanted to ask questions.
They asked for questions. When she started asking questions, it was plainly stated that that was not
the time or place to ask questions. He doesn't understand. If they're getting our tax money, we should
have the right to ask questions. If not there, where can we ask them? She was told directly not to ask
questions there, to direct her questions to Walter Stanley. But, Walter Stanley is not the fire chief and
not the fire department. He's a taxpayer just like they are. Why should we have to speak with him to
find out how our money is being spent within the fire department? Mr. Stanley is a board member of
the Guil-Rand fire district, representing the Sophia district. Mr. Pate said someone in the County
should be stepping up and making sure they are spending the money wisely. He doesn't understand
where the oversight is on them.
Vice Chair Frye said they have a board and they give us audited financial statements.
Mr. Pate asked who they should ask questions to if the fire department doesn't answer them.
Commissioner Kemp said that if they have a problem with Mr. Stanley, when the fire department
has its next election, he or Janet could present him or herself as a candidate and go out and ask people
to vote for them in order to get on that board and get more in the know.
Mr. Pate said that it is his understanding of the by-laws, that one has to apply and they have to
accept your nomination. They kind of tie your hands.
Commissioner Kemp said that he's never seen by-laws strictured like that.
Mr. Pate said that those are the new by-laws.
Commissioner Haywood said that this is a forum and we may not be able to provide all the
answers but we do welcome the questions, and any citizen is welcome to come every meeting and
speak.
Mr. Pate said that this is a learning process for him. He's only been here a few times and he's
learning all the time. We just had an election and 70% of Randolph County voters who took the time
to vote felt like our country as a whole was heading in the wrong direction and overspending money
we don't have. He said they just want to be concerned citizens to make sure our money is being spent
as wisely as possible.
Commissioner Haywood said that we audit these departments and if we see discrepancies, we
ask for answers.
Vice Chair Frye said that the fire chief and the board members said they would be willing to
come here and address this board and answer questions as a result of this issue anytime we want them
to appear.
Commissioner Kemp said that he thought that would be a good idea. That would clear up some
confusion.
Vice Chair Frye responded to Melissa Brown's earlier comments: He talked with her on the
phone and others at DSS and he agrees that there is a crisis and that kids have been inconvenienced.
Other than the possibility of our board funding money to alleviate the problem, we weren't a part of
any of those decisions or discussions. He was glad to hear that some progress is being made. There
still may be a shortage of fiends and this has been a learning process.
Reorganization of the Board
On motion of Fiye, seconded by Haywood, the Board voted unanimously to elect Hai -old Holmes
as Chairman.
On motion of Haywood, seconded by Lanier, the Board voted unanimously to elect Darrell Fiye
as L ice -Chair.
On motion of Frye, seconded by Haywood, the Board voted unanimously to approve the following
appointments: C'onnty Attorney, Ben Morgan; Associate C'onnty Attorney, Aimee Scotton; Clerk to
the Board,, Cheryl Ivey; Deputy Clerk to the Board,, Amanda Varner; Representative to the Board of
Health, Stan Haywood; Representative to the Social Services Board, Arnold Lanier; Representative to
the Sandhills Consolidated Mental Health Board,, Harold Holmes; Representative to the Juvenile
C rime Prevention Council, Phil Kenip; Representative to the High Point Transportation Advisory
Board,, Darrell Fiye; Alternate Representative to the High Paint Transportation Advisory Board,, ,Sian
Hayirood; PTRG Delegate, Darrell Fiye; Piedmont Triad Partnership, Phil Kemp; Piedmont
Authority for Regional Transportation, Darrell Frye; Regional Planning Organization Transportation
Advisory C'ommittee, Stan Haywood; Tourism Development Authority Liaison, Phil Kemp.
Rezoning Public Hearing
At 7:00 p.m., the Board adjourned to a duly advertised public hearing to consider a rezoning
request. Hal Johnson, Planning Director, presented the following request:
1. GLADON FOREST EQUITY, LLC, Trinity, North Carolina, is requesting that 1.50 acres (out of
10.39 acres) located at 9118 Hillsville Road, Trinity ToNsnship, be rezoned from RA to HC -CD. Tai
ID# 7726235258. Priman- Grovah Area. The proposed Conditional District Zoning Nvould specially
allow a retail sales (Dollar General Store) store in a proposed 130' x 70' building as per site plan.
Property ON -mer - Jeffrey Rains. The Planning Board reviewed this request at public meeting on
November 13, 2012, and unanimously recommended that this request be approved. The Planning
Board found the following policies within the 2009 Growth Management Plan that support
determination of consistency with the adopted plan with this recommendation:
Policv =1.1 Provide for sites in Randolph County jurisdiction where rural commercial activity can
locate; with the goal of increasing economic activity; job creation, and the provision of services to
the rural community.
Policv 4.3 Individual Rural Business or Highway Commercial rezoning decisions will depend upon
the scale of the proposed development as it relates to the specific site and location weighed against
the impacts to adjoining rzrral land uses.
Policv =1.6 Compatible land uses such as rural neighborhood retail and service establishments
located close to general residential areas should be considered during the rezoning process with the
general goal of reducing automobile travel distances and promoting better livability in the
community.
George Venters, Gladon Forest Equity, 709 Yarmouth Rd., Raleigh, NC, said that the property
was chosen for this project by Dollar General Corporate. They have looked at all of Randolph County
and like the growth prospects of this area. Dollar General (DG) is one of the nation's leading
discounters and created over 6,000 jobs in 2012. DG provides conveniently sized stores in convenient
locations. Each store will bring approximately 10,000 consumer staple items to the area. Each store
makes a commitment to the community that they will generate approximately $100,000 in additional
tax revenue for the community. More importantly, each store will generate approximately 10-15 new
and part-time jobs. The goal of these projects is to conveniently serve the local community to provide
low price options. He said that before the Planning Board meeting, he mailed 30+ letters to
homeowners within a 1000 -ft radius of the property. He received one phone call from a homeowner
who had a couple of general questions. He has not heard any opposition so far.
Janet Pate said that she lives in the area and is concerned due to current traffic problems on this
road. Is there anything going to be done about a turning lane for this business?
Mr. Venters said that each project is taken to the NCDOT district office. DOT scrutinizes every
plan based on traffic volume. It will go through a whole litany of tests. It very well may require a
turning lane.
Vice Chair Frye said that it is up to the developer and NCDOT to work out any of these issues,
not the County.
Joseph & Rhonda Walton, 4142 Valley Ridge Dr. Ext., Trinity, said that they are neighbors of
the property to be developed. They are not necessarily against this project, but have concerns on how
it might affect property values and increase crime, and they also wonder about the storm run-off and
sewage. They received a letter from the company, after which, Mr. Walton asked for a site map. He
has not been provided with one. He asked how much acreage that adjoins his property will be
affected. Will trees be cut down? Will lights be installed? They have concerns with loss of privacy and
security and noise factors. Also, traffic is an issue now and left-hand turns could be a major issue.
Would there be a buffer fence installed? They are also concerned about parking lots with folks with
booming radios. Ms. Walton said she has lived in this neighborhood for 25 years and would hate to
have to sell in order to maintain peace and privacy.
Hal Johnson said that there will be a fence installed between the business and the adjoining
property, which is standard procedure.
Mr. Venters said that there will be a six -ft. privacy fence around three sides. The existing pine
trees will not be cut between the business and the community center.
On motion of Fiye, seconded by Lanier, the Board voted unanimously to approve the request of
Gladon Forest Equity, LLCas determined consistent frith the standards and policies contained irithin
the Groirth Management Plan outlined in the recommendations provided by the County Planning
Board
2. JAMES MURRAY, Randleman, North Carolina, is requesting that .92 acres located at 5896 US
ffivv 311, New Market Tovmship, be rezoned from OI -CU to RR. Randleman Lake Watershed.
Tax ID# 7745378328. Priman- Grovah Area. It is the desire of the applicant to use the property for
residential purposes. The Planning Board reviewed this request at public meeting on November 13
2012, and unanimously recommended that this request be approved. The Planning Board found the
following policies within the 2009 Growth Management Plan that support determination of
consistency with the adopted plan with this recommendation:
Board of Commissioner Resolution Adopting the Growth Management Plan, Policv -3. Ensure the
opportunity for landowners to achieve the highest and best uses of their land that are consistent with
growth management policies in order to protect the economic viability of the County's citizens and
tax base.
Board of Commissioner Resolution Adopting the Growth Management Plan, Policv -4. Ensure the
opportunity for landowners to achieve the highest and best uses of their land that are consistent with
growth management policies in order to protect the economic viability of the County's citizens and
tax base.
James Murray, 201 Hub Morris Rd., Randleman, spoke in favor of his request.
On motion of Haywood, seconded by Fiye, the Board voted unanimously to approve the request of
.lames Murray as determined consistent i vith the standards and policies contained i vithin the Groi with
Management Plan outlined in the recommendations provided by the County Planning Board.
Approval of Consent Agenda
On motion of Fiye, seconded by Lanier, the Board voted unanimously to approve the Consent
Agenda, as presented, and as follows:
• approve minutes of regular meeting & closed session q/'] 13'12;
• approve surety bonds fol' elected and appointed officials: Finance Officer Will Massie
(S300, 000); Deputy Finance Officer Suzanne Dale (S300, 000); Tax Collector Debra Hill
(,S300,000); Deputy Tax Collectors: Sallie Cheek (,S200,000), Revonda Cox (,S200,000);
Deputy Finance Officers for Jail Commissary: Phyllis Calloway (SIO, 000), Judy Brown
(S30, 000), JoAnn Sapp (SIO, 000); Sheriff Maynard Reid (S23, 000), Register of Deeds Krista
Lowe (S30, 000);
• designate Board of C'onlmissioners Chair (Chief Elected Official) to the Regi()Ylal Partnership
Local Workforce Devek�pmentArea Consortium Chic
fElected Official Board;
• approve Budget Amendivent -13 for DSS (578,562 C.ariyover ofAdoption Enhancement &
Adoption Fees), as. follows:
2012-2013 Budget Ordinance
General Fund Budget Amendment #13
Revenues Increase Decrease
Appropriated Fimd Balance S78,562
Appropriations Increase Decrease
Social Services S78,562
appointAnne Hockett to the Workforce Development Board to fill the unexpired term of
Robert Leslie, irho is no longer eligible to serve;
approve Budget Amendment -14 for Health Dept. (S11, 218 Women's Health, TANF Grant;
S4, 000 Additional Funding from Div. of Public Health Environmental Health; S2,208
Women's & Children's Health Nutrition Grant: total S17, 426), as follows:
2012-2013 Budget Ordinance
General FundBudgetAmendment #14
Revenues Increase Decrease
Restricted Intergovernmental S17,426
Appropriations Increase Decrease
Public Health S17,426
• approve Resolution Supporting Randolph County "Welcome To "Sign On US Highway 2201-
73'74 Northbound, as follows:
RESOL UTION SUPPORTING RANDOLPH COUNTY "WELCOME TO"SIGN ON US
HIGHWAY22O I--73174 NB
WHEREAS, the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NC'DOT) has investigated a request
from Randolph County to erect a welcome sign on the right of way of US 2201-73'74 NB at or near the
RandolphMontgomery county line; and
WHEREAS, the NC'DOT has granted the use of the existing sign supports for the purpose of erecting
a Randolph County "Welcome To " sign; and
WHEREAS, the NC'DOT has agreed to fabricate, deliver and install the Randolph County
"Welcome To " sign; and
WHEREAS, Randolph County agrees to pay NC'DOT for the cost of the fabrication, delivery and
installation of the Randolph County "Welcome To " sign; and
WHEREAS, Randolph County agrees to take responsibility for the maintenance and or replacement
of the Randolph County "Welcome To " sign; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Randolph County Board of Commissioners, that
the County agrees to reimburse the NCDOT for the fabrication, delivery, installation, and maintenance
of, the aforementioned "Welcome To " sign.
amend 2013 Holiday ,Schedule to reflect that the Randolph C'oiirlty ,Solid Waste Facility trill
be closed on New Year's Day, as follows:
Holiday
County*
.S'ol d Waste Facility **
Library
New Year's Day
Obsen-ante 1/1 (Tue.)
Obsen-ance1/1 (Tue.) closed
Obsen-ante 1/1
(Tue.)
M. L. King Jr.'s
1/21 (Mon.)
1/21(Mon.) open
1/21 (Mon.)
B-dai-
Easter / Good
3/29 (Fri.)
3/29 (Fri.) open
3/29 & 3/30
Friday
3/30 (Sat.) closed
(Fri. & Sat.)
Memorial Dai-
5/27 (Mon.)
5/27 (Mon.) closed
5/27 (Mon.)
Independence
7/4 (Thur.)
7/4 (Thur.) closed
7/4 (Thur.)
Dai
Labor Day
9/2 (Mon.)
9/2 (Mon.) closed
9/2 (Mon.)
Fall Festival (Asheboro Librate Only)
10/5 (Sat.)
Veterans' Day 1 11/11 (Mon.) 11/11 (Mon.) open
11/11 (Mon.)
Seagrove Potter- Festival (Seagrove LibratN- Only)
11/17 (Sat.)
Thanksgiving
11/28 & 29
11/28 (Thur.) closed, 11/29 (Fri.) open,
11/28, 29 & 30
(Thur. & Fri.)
11/30 (Sat.) open
(Thur., Fri. &
Sat.)
Christmas
12/24 -12/26
12/24 (Tue.) closed, 12/25 (Wed.)
12/24,12/25 &
(Tue., Wed. & Thur.)
closed, 12/26 open
26
(Tue., Wed. &
Thur)
reappoint Cathy Waddell to the Randolph County Board c/'Health;
appoint Benjamin Tuggle to the Asheboro Planning Board to fill the unexpired term of Chris
COPSbie, who has resigned;
reappoint Joanne Peterson to the Randolph County Nursing Home Community Advisory
'onlmittee.
Additions to Agenda:
Chairman Holmes announced that the following items would be added to the New Business Agenda:
I Request for Approval to Allow PTRC to Apply for Single Family Rehabilitation Funding on Behalf
of the County Brian Heilig
K. Request for Adoption of Resolution to Delay General Reappraisal for One Year Debra Hill
Presentation from Area A2ency On Aging Regarding New County Data Package
Candie Rudzinski, Executive Director of the Randolph County Senior Adults Association, introduced
Joe Dzugan, Piedmont Triad Regional Council Aging Systems Coordinator, who presented a data report
entitled "Randolph County — An Overview of the Aging Population & Individuals with Disabilities." It
was an in-depth statistical look at Randolph County's older adults, grandparents raising grandchildren, and
individuals with disabilities. All of the data in the report was provided by the US Census Bureau, the
American Community Survey, the North Carolina Office of Budget and Management, and the North
Carolina State Demographer. Statistics were compiled by the PTRC Regional Data Center. The main
purpose of this presentation was to inform the citizens concerning aging needs in Randolph County. A link
to this information will be provided on the County's website.
Approval of Budget Amendment for General Fund Merit Expenditures
Will Massie stated that County departments were notified in October that the merit program that had
been suspended in 2008, was reactivated, allowing us to reward outstanding employee performance.
However, instead of salary adjustments, for this year, merit pay was provided as a one-time bonus. A
budget amendment is necessary to reallocate the budgeted fiends from the Administration Department to
the respective departments.
On motion of Fiye, seconded by Kemp, the Board voted unanimously to approve Budget Amendment
-15 f )r merit pay, as folloirs:
2012-2013 Budget Ordinance
General Fund Budget Amendment #I5
Revenues
Increase
Decrease
Appropriations
Increase
Decrease
dniinistration
S111,801
reformation Technology
$3,103
Tax
S.5,412
Elections
489
Register of Deeds
51,124
Public Bziildinqs
51,996
Sheri ff
S39,174
Emergency Services
S12,821
Briildinq Inspections
S1,677
Day Reporting Center
S1,026
Planning & Zoning
S1,892
Cooperative Extension
5265
Soil & Water
5391
Public Works
5390
Public Health
512,125
Social Services
S23,520
Veteran Services
S86
Child SitpportEnfbrcernent
51,496
Public Library
S4,814
Public Hearing on Closing of Undeveloped Portions of Willow Lake Rd. & Approval of Order
Associate County Attorney Aimee Scotton said that she had received a request that the Randolph
County Board of Commissioners act to permanently close two undeveloped sections of Willow Lake
Road in the Franklinville Township. Neither of these sections have ever been built; they only exist on
paper. The procedure for closing a public road or easement is governed by North Carolina General
Statue §153A-241. The first step requires that the Board of Commissioners adopt a resolution
declaring its intent to close the road and calling for a public hearing on the question. This resolution
was adopted at the November meeting. In accordance with the statute, notice of the hearing was
published once a week for three successive weeks. The statute further requires that a copy of the
resolution must be sent by certified mail to each owner of property adjoining the road, as shown by the
county tax records, who did not join in the request to have the road closed; this has been done.
Furthermore, a notice of the closing and the public hearing was posted in at least two places along the
section to be closed as prescribed by statute. It is now time for the public hearing. After all interested
persons are allowed to voice their views, if the Board of Commissioners is satisfied that closing these
sections of Willow Lake Road will not be detrimental to public interest and will not deprive any
individual of access to his property, the Board may adopt the attached order closing the sections. A
certified copy of the order shall then be filed with the Register of Deeds office.
At 7:35 pm, the Chairman opened the duly advertised public hearing. No one spoke, and the
public hearing was closed.
On motion of Kemp, seconded by Haywood, the Board voted unanimously to adopt an order to close
portions of Willow Lake Road, a, follows:
ORDER
WHEREAS, the Randolph County Board of Commissioners has received a regczest from Gary David
Robbins to permanently close two undeveloped sections of Willow Lake Road in the Franklinville Township:
From where it connects with Orlendo Drive (S. R. -2263) approximately 359.26 feet north, and;
From where it physically dead ends approximately 368.84 feet south to where it connects on paper with
Ernes tRoad (S. R. -2227).
WHEREAS, on November 5, 2012, the Randolph County Board of Commissioners adopted a
resolution declaring its intent to close said street or easement and set a public hearing on the issue for
December 3, 2012, all in accordance with North Carolina General Statute §153A-2=11; and
WHEREAS, notices of the closing and public hearing were mailed to all adjoining property owners
who did not join in the request for closure and were prominently posted in two places along the road; and
WHEREAS, notice of the public hearing set by the Randolph County Board of Commissioners was
published once a week -for three successive weeks before the hearing (on November 9, 16, and 23); and
WHEREAS, the Randolph County Board of Commissioners has determined through the public hearing
that the closing of the aforesaid portions of Willow Lake Road is not contrary to the public interest and
that no individual owning property in the vicinities of said road would be deprived of reasonable means
of ingress and egress to his property;
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT ORDERED by the Randolph County Board of Commissioners that the
above -referenced portions of Willow Lake Road be permanently closed and that all right, title, and
interest in its respective right-of-way is vested in those persons owning lots or parcels of land adjacent to
the road or easement.
BE IT FURTHER ORDERED that a certified copy of this Order shall be filed in the Register ofDeeds
Off ice.
Approval of Ambulance Franchise Renewals for Ash -Rand & Piedmont Triad Ambulance
Emergency Services Director Donovan Davis said that the ambulance franchises for Ash -Rand
Rescue and EMS, Inc. and Piedmont Triad Ambulance and Rescue, Inc. are set to expire at the end of
December 2012. He recommended that these franchises be renewed for another two years, expiring at
the end of December 2014. Each agency has successfully completed and submitted the renewal
application requirements, along with the required renewal fee ($500 each). The applications have
been reviewed by Aimee Scotton, Associate County Attorney.
On motion of Haywood, seconded by Kemp, the Board voted unanimously to renew the franchise
agreements irith Ash -Rand Rescue and EM,S, Inc. and Piedmont Triad Ambulance & Rescue, Inc, as
requested
Approval of Amendments to the Voluntary Agriculture District Ordinance
Cooperative Extension Director Carolyn Langley said that the Voluntary Agricultural Board
would like to request that the following amendments be made in the County's Voluntary Agriculture
District Ordinance in order to redefine qualifying farmland so that the definition is in line with new
North Carolina statutory requirements. This includes removal of the requirement that the farmland be
in the "present use" deferred tax program, but keeping the size requirements of said program as a
guideline for acceptance into Randolph County Voluntary Agricultural District Programs. She also
requested changes regarding the advisory board composition.
On motion of Kemp, seconded by Haywood, the Board voted unanimously, effective immediately, to
approve amendments to the T'oluntary Agriculture District Ordinance, as proposed, and as fol%ws:
ARTICLEIII VOL UNTARYAGRICULTURALDISTRICTADVISORYBOARD
B. Appointments and Memberships
The Advisog Board shall consist of fourteen (14) members appointed by the Board of Commissioners, (2)
each fi�orn six (6)geographic areas outlined inArticle Vbelmr and (2) at lame.
C. Requirements
2. At least twelve (12) of the fourteen (14) members shall be actively engaged in farming or own
qualifying furrraland in Randolph County.
I. L'Zrc%District s/aril /urvc 2 rcprescr�tcrtivcsrJn the Advisory°Board
G. Advisory Board Procedure
1. Oicers
The Advisory Board shall elect a Chairperson, Vice -Chairperson and .Secretary each year at its first
meeting of the calendar year. The Chairperson shall preside over all regular or special meetings of the
Advisory Board. In the absence or disability of the Chairperson, the Vice -Chairperson shall preside
and exercise all powers of the Chairperson. Additional officer may be elected as needed.
5. Records
The .Secretary shall keep mimutes of the proceedings and shall keep records of its examinations of
applications and other official actions, all of which shall be filed in the office of the Advisory Board
(Cooperative Extension Office) and shall be public record.
K Powers and Duties
Ornit Item =2 regarding Altermtes.
ARTICLE IV CERTIFICATIONAND Q UALIFICATION OF FARMLAND
In order for farmland to quay ander this Article, it mast be real property that
A. Iv engaged in agricultznc as that word iv defined in North Carolina General .Statute 106-581.1;
B. Aleets the size rccluirernent applicable to its class of use as set out in North Carolina Geneml Statute 105-
277.3(a);
C'. Is managed in accordance with the .Moil Conservation Service defined erosion control practices that are
addressed to highly erodable land;
D. Is the subject of a conservation agreement, as defined in N.C.GS: 121-35, between the County Soil and
Water Conservation District and the owner ofsuch land that prohibits nonfarm use or development ofsuch
land for a period of at least 10 years, except for the creation of not more than three lots that meet
applicable County zoning and subdivision regulations Revocation of a conservation agreement by the
Voluntary Agricultural District Advisory Board or by the landowner of qual�ing farmland shall result in
the loss of eligibility to participate in a Voluntary Agricultural District
E. Is not located within the corporate boundaries (city limits) of a municipality within Randolph County; and
E. Is agreed that for a conservation agreement between Randolph County and the landowner for inclusion in
an Enhanced Voluntary Agricultural District, said agreement CANNOT be revoked for 10 years and is
binding upon all successors and assigns unless released by action of the Board of Commissioners.
ARTICLE VII APPLICATION, APPROVAL AND APPEAL PROCEDURE
B. Approval Process
1. Upon receipt of an application, the Cooperative Extension Director will forward copies or direct the
landowner to the fallowing agencies for their prompt evahlation and response:
a. the Natural Resources Conservation Service Offrce for Randolph County and or the Randolph
County Soil and Water Conservation Service and or
b. the North Carolina Forest Service or a licensed consulting firrester.
Animal Control Update and Request for Staffing
MiMi Cooper reported on staffing problems at the County Animal Shelter. She said that several
attempts have been made to work within the budget to handle these issues, but with no resolution. Ms.
Cooper provided the following summary of her request:
• Work volume is very heavy and increasing. For three of the past four years, more than 7,000
animals have been taken in annually. In the past four years, more of these 7,000 animals have
presented as healthy and adoptable, meaning we hold these animals longer as we try to match
them to new owners or rescues. The shelter is frill every day and over capacity most days. In
addition to an increase in animals brought into the shelter, we have seen a corresponding increase
in the number of field complaints. Many of these are abandonments and cruelty complaints,
which require prompt response and longer commitments of time.
• Work is very stressful, demanding and overwhelming. We simply do not have the space to
keep every animal that might be a good, adoptable pet. Every day, staff members make life and
death decisions for animals. In addition to caring for the wellbeing of the animals during their stay
in the shelter, they also carry out the euthanasia of animals, which is extremely emotional. From
observation, we see that employees are physically and mentally tired, and it is showing in the
quality of their work. For example, employees that have been with us for many years have been
making mistakes that are uncharacteristic for them. In addition, the work is highly physical. Our
employees lift animals daily. This leads to sore backs and pulled muscles. They also hose, sweep,
shovel, mop, wash and clean cat and dog kennels daily. All these animals also have to be moved
during this two-hour cleaning process. Animals that are euthanized have to be handled three times.
Not every animal in the shelter or in the field wants to come with us, so officers have to use
physical force to get them under control. This means that we have a large number of work related
injuries, which lead to absences or work restrictions and thus, more work for the remaining staff.
• Staff turnover is high. We lose most employees due to job dissatisfaction or unsatisfactory job
performance. While Animal Control in general across the state has a higher than average turnover
rate when compared to other County departments, our turnover is far higher than it should be.
o In 2010, countywide turnover was 13.04%, Randolph County Animal Control was 25%.
o In 2011, countywide turnover was 13.08%, Randolph County Animal Control was 25%.
o To date, for 2012, turnover for Randolph County Animal Control is trending at 33%.
(Turnover is not finalized until after 12/31 of each year.)
When one takes into account that uniforms and vaccinations alone cost us nearly $1000 for each
employee, and the training required to get them fully up to speed is a minimum of four months,
our total cost of turnover averages $11,885 per employee. Because staff turnover is high, current
staff must work extra hours and have extremely high, accumulated compensatory time balances.
The total combined compensatory time balance for Animal Control as of 11-15-12 is 387 hours.
Because we are chronically short of staff, on call rotations come around faster than we can give
employees time off. Employees must use accrued compensatory time before using vacation
accrual. Thus, since employees seldom dip into their vacation accruals, vacation balances are
extremely high, averaging 215.44 hours per employee as of the 11/15 payroll. This vacation
average balance is inclusive of two employees who have been on FMLA and have no accrued
vacation. This is a huge financial liability for the County when staff leave as we must pay out
accumulated compensatory and vacation time. While this is a very hard job, both physically and
emotionally, and while we will always have turnover due to the nature of the job, our turnover is
much higher than average because we are chronically short-staffed and thus, have a much higher
level of burnout or discipline (because employees are exhausted, making mistakes and becoming
frustrated with the workload) issues.
Proposed Solutions:
• Add an additional full-time staff position. Adding an additional position would help
tremendously with the work load, thus reducing turnover. An additional Animal Control Officer
II costs $41,585 annually, including benefits.
• Create a lead officer role. Currently, we have one supervisor for the entire shelter and field
officers. It is too much to keep up with what is going on in the shelter and the field in any sort of
consistent way. If the current supervisor is out for any reason, Ms. Cooper said that she manages
the program in her absence. This seems like a very inefficient use of resources. Ms. Cooper said
she believes that we have a current officer who is capable of taking the lead in the supervisor's
absence; Ms. Cooper recommends a 10% increase for the added responsibility. She said she is not
asking for a new title in the pay plan, but simply to reward an existing employee for taking on
additional duties. The annual amount needed to compensate this employee for the additional
responsibilities is $3,528.00.
Ms. Cooper said that while she realizes she is asking for additional annual fiends of $45,113, she
stressed that she has already tried to address the workload issues by hiring temporary, part-time staff
on an as needed basis using some lapsed salary dollars. While this has helped some, it is not nearly
enough to address the issues outlined above. Additionally, only time will tell, but she believes that
adding an additional Officer and creating this lead role will reduce turnover. Based on the numbers
outlined above, when costs are netted against the $45,113 requested, the result in additional funding is
very, very minimal.
Ms. Cooper concluded her request with the following statement: These changes are necessary in
order to meet the animal control needs of the County. The world of animal welfare has changed
tremendously in the years since we first started operating animal control (1996). We are actively
promoting our adoptable animals rather than just waiting for the public to come see what we have.
We have a core group of volunteers that number over 100 that either come to the shelter to walls dogs,
play with cats, groom, train, or solicit donations. We have riles from the Department of Agriculture
that we must meet in order to get a license to operate. These raise the standard from a "dog pound" to
an "animal shelter." We choose to take that a step higher and work hard to keep our animal
population as healthy as we can. We have a veterinarian consultant as well as several veterinarian
volunteers who assist us in improving our skills with all aspects of animal care. We still have our very
important enforcement roles called for in the county ordinance as well as in North Carolina law, but
we want that same level of professionalism to carry over to the shelter. I say this to make the point that
we are striving to become a professional, well ren, animal shelter that keeps the focus on animals. To
meet this goal, I must be able to attract and retain staff.
On motion of Kenip, seconded by Fiye, the Board voted unanimously to:
• Approve one additional ill -time Animal ('ontrolOfficerHposition, effectivedannaly 1, 2013;
• Approve S22,336.30 to cover the 2012'2013 costs, effective Ianuary 1, 2013;
• Approve S1, 761.00 in additional f inding to allocate to a current Animal Control Off cer II
position to take on supervisory responsibilities and duties as a lead officer in the absence of the
Animal ('ontrol ,Sitpeivisor effective Ianualy 1, 2013;
• Approve Budget Amendment -16, as follows:
2012-2013 Budget Ordinance
General Fund Budget Amendment #16
Revenues Increase Decrease
Appropriated Fiind Balance S 24,321
Appropriations Increase Decrease
Public Health S24,321
Election of Voting Delegate for the 2013 NCACC Legislative Goals Conference
On motion of Fiye, seconded by Haywood, the Board voted unanimously to elect Harold Holmes
as the voting delegate for the NCACC Legislative Goals Conference in danitaly.
Presentation of/Proposal to Accept Offer to Purchase County Property
Associate County Attorney Aimee Scotton said that the County has received a letter from Ned
Barnes with the Crosland Barnes Group, LLC, offering to purchase the County -owned 0.98 -acre tract
better known as the Randleman EMS Base. The offer that was submitted is $460,000.00 and is
contingent only upon favorable environmental testing and the County possessing clear title to transfer.
She said that if the Board proposes to accept this offer, we will begin the offer, advertisement, upset
bid process set out in N.C.G.S. 160A-269. Mr. Barnes will be required to submit a 5% deposit.
Notice of the offer will then be published in the newspaper. After the advertisement rens, other
interested parties have 10 days in which to upset this initial bid. They may do so by raising the bid by
not less than 10% of the first $1,000 and 5% of the remainder and by depositing 5% of the increased
bid amount with our clerk. This bid process is followed until no further upset bids are received. At that
point, the final offer (high bid) is presented to the Board and then, the Board can accept the offer and
proceed with the sale. At any point during this process, the Board can reject any and all offers, but if it
does accept an offer, it must be the highest offer. Ms. Scotton said that the Board's action at this point
would be to either reject the offer of $460,000 from Crosland Barnes Group, LLC, or propose to
accept the offer.
On motion of Fiye, seconded by Kemp, the Board voted unanimously to propose to accept the offei-
of S 160, 000 from CPOsland Barnes Group, LLC for the County -owned Randleman Ambulance Base
property.
Authorization to Allow PTRC to Apply for Housing Rehabilitation Funds on the County's
Behalf
County Building Inspector Brian Heilig said that Randolph County is eligible to receive
funds under the Single Family Rehabilitation (SFR) Program. This grant is for a three-year cycle.
The Piedmont Triad Regional Council (PTRC) would assume all responsibilities as applicant,
recipient, and administrator of the grant. Randolph County Government will not incur any cost or
liability for the grant while the residents of the County will receive the benefits of housing
rehabilitation. This can work in conjunction with our CDBG Scattered Site Housing Grant. Mr.
Heilig presented a memo announcing the availability of funds from the Housing Finance Agency
and a letter from Michael Blair, PTRC's Housing Director, explaining the role of the PTRC. Mr.
Heilig requested the Board's approval to allow PTRC to request Single Family Rehabilitation
Program funding of behalf of Randolph County.
On motion of Kemp, seconded by Fiye, the Board voted unanimously to authorize the Piedmont
Triad Regional Council to apply fol' ,Vvigle Family Rehabilitation Program f tviding of behalf of
Randolph County.
Approval of Resolution to Delay Reappraisal for One Year
Randolph County Tax Supervisor Debra Hill requested that the 2013 Revaluation be postponed
until January 2014 due to concerns about the quality of the data as a result of Legacy data migration
and software conversion issues. She said that the County implemented CAMA (real estate appraisal)
in Feb 2011, but the revaluation module was not available until April 2012. The new CAMA software
calculates values differently. This forced delays as the appraisal staff had to learn the new valuing
scheme while developing a new schedule of values from the ground up. During this time, the Tax
appraisal staff also discovered data problems that were created during the CAMA Legacy data
conversion. This has caused us to go back and manually fix certain elements of the property
information in the new system. Farragut, our CAMA software vendor, has been working closely with
us on cleaning up the data conversion issues. They have also been working as quickly as humanly
possible to correct software issues as they have been identified. Ms. Hill stressed that it is imperative
that the revaluation information is reliable. The citizens deserve to have confidence in the accuracy of
their property values and more time is needed to verify property information and to complete a
thorough analysis of new property values. Unfortunately, staff and time is limited to deal with these
issues. Ms. Hill said that they cannot adequately prepare the revaluation in the available time and is
asking that the revaluation be postponed until January 2014.
On motion of Kemp, seconded by Fiye, the Board voted unanimously to adopt the following
resohrtion, irhich postpones the effective date of the next General Reappraisal until danuaty 1, 2014:
A RESOLUTIONDELAYING THE EFFECTIVE DATE OFA REAPPRISAL OFPROPERTYIN
RANDOLPH COUNTY
WHEREAS, North Carolina General Statute 105-286 mandates a reappraisal of property at least
every eight (8) years; and
WHEREAS, Randolph County's next mandated eight -(8) year reappraisal is regWred as of.Iannary
1, 2015; and
WHEREAS, North Carolina General Statute 105-286(a)(3) authorizes a Board ofConnty
Commissioners to advance the period so that a reappraisal occurs more often than every eight (8) years;
and
WHEREAS, Randolph County, on February 2, 2004, advanced its tax reappaisal cycle to occur
every six years, so that the last reappraisal occurred January 1, 2007; and
WHEREAS, Randolph County had planned to have an advanced reappraisal effective for January 1,
2013; and
WHEREAS, the Randolph County Board of Commissioners feel that a reappraisal for January 1,
2013 should be delayed due to concerns regarding the quality of the data as a result of legacy data
migration and software conversion issues that could result in property vahies not equal to their tare
market vahies as required by North Carolina General Statute 105-283.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF
RANDOLPH COUNTY THAT:
1. The scheduled reappraisal for an effective date ofJanuary 1, 2013 is hereby revoked and
rescinded.
2. Pursuant to the authority granted in North Carolina General Statute 105-286(a)(3), the next
scheduled reappraisal for Randolph County is set for an effective date ofJanuary 1, 2014,
followed by a next scheduled reappraisal for Randolph County with an effective date ofJanuary
1, 2019, and Randolph County will return to a six- (6) year reappraisal cycle thereafter.
3. A copy of this Resolution shall be provided to the Property Tax Division of the North Carolina
Department ofRevenue and the municipalities ofRandolph County.
Adopted this 3" day of December, 2012.
Closed Session
At 8:30 p.m., on motion of Fiye, seconded by Haywood, the Board voted unanimously to go
into closed session to discuss matters relating to the location or expansion of business in the area,
pursuant to [N. C. G., 1 13-318.11(a) (4)J.
Regular Meeting Resumed
At 8:50 p.m., the Board returned to regular session.
Adjournment
At 8: 50 p.m., on motion of Frye, seconded by Kemp, the Board voted unanimously to adjourn.
J. Harold Holmes, Chairman Darrell L. Frye
Phil Kemp
Stan Haywood
Arnold Lanier
Cheryl A. Ivey, Cleric to the Board