c050415 III Project LibertyClosed Session III (Project Liberty) May 4, 2015
At 8:06 p.m., already in closed session on another matter, began closed session on a different
matter relating to the location or expansion of business in the area, pursuant to NCGS 143-
318.11(a)(4) and to establish or instruct the staff or agent concerning the negotiation of the price
and terms of a contract concerning the acquisition of real property, pursuant to [N.C.G.S.143-
318.11(a)(5)]. Commissioners Frye, Kemp, Lanier, Haywood and Allen were present. Also present
were County Manager Hal Johnson; Will Massie, Assistant County Manager/Finance Officer;
County Attorney Ben Morgan; Aimee Scotton, Associate County Attorney; Amanda Varner, Clerk
to the Board and Bonnie Renfro, Randolph County EDC President.
Ms. Renfro gave an update on the mega site project. She reminded the Board that this is an
ongoing project and things will likely change several times in the planning process. She clarified
that there have been two drafts of the proposed Norfolk -Southern rail lines for the property. She
said these were for planning purposes and nothing has been set and that designs will likely change
again.
Ms. Renfro stated that the City of Greensboro has also had several drafts drawn for water and
sewer lines. With some rerouting of lines in the preliminary drawing, they believe they will be able
to save some money from the initial proposal they were given. They are to consider proposals for
some of the pre -construction work at an upcoming meeting.
She said that Piedmont Natural Gas has been doing some initial planning designs as well.
Ms. Renfro also presented an updated map prepared by the Greensboro -Randolph Megasite
Foundation. It had additional parcels identified within the footprint of the mega site that the
Foundation is asking that Randolph County purchase. Those parcels are estimated to be valued at
$5,878,000. One of the parcels currently has a cell tower for Verizon, Sprint, and AT& T and
generates ongoing revenue. The value of that parcel reflects this. Ms. Renfro said a public hearing
would be required if the Board wishes to go forward with any purchases.
Commissioner Lanier asked Ms. Renfro to contact the NC Port Authority to inquire on their
interest in working with the County on preparing the site.
Following discussion, the consensus of the Commissioners was to set a public hearing for the
June meeting to consider the purchase of additional real estate in conjunction with the Greensboro -
Randolph mega site
At 8:47 pm, on motion of Allen, seconded by Haywood, the Board voted unanimously to end
closed session and to return to open session.
Darrell L. Frye, Chairman Phil Kemp
Arnold Lanier
David Allen
Stan Haywood
Amanda Varner, Clerk to the Board
5/4/2015