110220November 2, 2020
The Randolph County Board of Commissioners met in regular session at 6:00 p.m. in the 1909
Randolph County Historic Courthouse Meeting Room, 145 Worth Street, Asheboro, NC. Chairman
Darrell Frye, Vice -Chairman David Allen, Commissioner Kenny Kidd, Commissioner Maxton
McDowell, and Commissioner Hope Haywood were present. Also present were County Manager Hal
Johnson, Finance Officer Will Massie, County Attorney Ben Morgan, Deputy Clerk to the Board Sarah
Pack, and Clerk to the Board Dana Crisco. Commissioner Haywood gave the invocation. Required
social distancing was maintained throughout the meeting due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The
meeting was livestreamed on Facebook. The public could attend the meeting but the meeting room
capacity was limited to 50 people.
Special Recognitions
Captain Jerry Brower retired with 28 years of service at the Sheriff's Office. Sheriff Greg Seabolt
recognized Captain Brower and Chairman Frye presented him with a clock on behalf of the Board.
Hal Johnson, County Manager, recognized 45 employees for their service. The employees who
were recognized are as follows:
15 Year Award
Tara Aker, Public Health
Darlene Hill, Public Health
Stacy McDaniel, Public Health
Hilda Reyes, Public Health
Tonya Pollard, Register of Deeds
Neill Blackman, Sheriff
Jason Kidd, Sheriff
Robert Polito, Sheriff
Jefferson Potts, Sheriff
Tracy Turner, Sheriff
Sherri Jarrett, Social Services
Tracy Routh, Social Services
20 Year Award
William Massie, Administration
Brian Underwood, Building Inspections
Justine Buxton, Emergency Services
Deborah Thompson, Planning & Zoning
Jean Graham, Public Health
Rebecca Hinshaw, Public Health
Sandy Newlin, Register of Deeds
Glenn Goss, Sheriff
Julia Hooker, Sheriff
James Welch, Sheriff
Dorothea Harvell, Social Services
Jennifer Frazier, Social Services
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Elaine Roberson, Social Services
Myra Auman, Tax
Jackie Chriscoe, Tax
Teresa Mitchem, Tax
Stephanie Thompson, Tax
25 Year Award
Danny York, Building Inspections
Donovan Davis, Emergency Services
Jeffrey Mullins, Information Technology
Gerald Dale, Jr., Planning & Zoning
Cindy Trogdon, Public Health
Jeffrey Goins, Sheriff
Scottie Hicks, Sheriff
Sabrina Honeycutt, Sheriff
Maria Jones, Sheriff
Mary Davis, Social Services
Sallie Cheek, Tax
Patty Willard, Tax
30 Year Award
Tonya Maness Public Health
Toni Welch Social Services
Tammie Smith Tax
Mr. Johnson said every employee of Randolph County is a first responder. There are 879
employees of Randolph County Government. Forty-five employees are being recognized for 15, 20,
25, and 30 -year milestones with Randolph County Government. Together, these 45 employees have
over 940 years of combined service. They come from ten departments across Randolph County
Government. Below is a breakdown of these 45 employees by department:
• 1 employee in Administration with 20 years of service
• 2 employees in Building Inspections representing 45 years of service
• 7 employees at the Department of Social Services representing 145 years of service
• 2 employees in Emergency Services representing 45 years of service
• 8 employees in Public Health representing 155 years of service
• 1 employee in Information Technology with 25 years of service
• 2 employees in Planning & Zoning representing 45 years of service
• 2 employees in Register of Deeds representing 35 years of service
• 13 employees in the Sheriffs Office representing 265 years of service
• 7 employees in the Tax Department representing 160 years of service
Mr. Johnson thanked the employees for their dedication and service to the County.
Chairman Frye said it is an honor to recognize and congratulate the dedicated employees who have
served with heart in Randolph County.
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Public Comment Period
Pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 153A-52.1, Chairman Frye opened the floor for public comment and closed
it after no one wished to speak.
Consent Agenda
Commissioner Haywood commented on the Cooperative Extension receiving a grant from BAND
NC and the Southern Rural Development. These monies will be used to create opportunities for
citizens to access the internet and devices. This is especially significant during the pandemic. Last
year, the National Association of County Commissioners( NACo) made broadband access it's number
one priority.
Chairman Frye said the North Carolina Association of County Commissioner (NCACC) has had
broadband access as its top priority for two years. It's a big issue.
Commissioner Haywood appreciates the Cooperative Extension using the money in this fashion.
She also commented on the Adoption Awareness Month Proclamation. There are currently 145
children in foster care with 31 of these children having adoption as their permanent plan. In her eyes,
people who adopt are heroes. Many parents adopt children with special needs. She admires the
perseverance and commitment to adopt that these parents have.
Chairman Frye said that sometimes we take things for granted. One of the fastest growing areas of
the County is Child Protective Services. Some of the issues children have to deal with are
heartbreaking. DSS deals with challenges every day. Adoption Awareness Month is a recognition of
these challenges.
Commissioner Allen is an adoptive parent. The finalization of his daughter's adoption took place
26 years ago this month. He appreciates the recognition of adoption.
On motion ofAllen, seconded by Haywood, the Board voted unanimously to approve the Consent
Agenda as presented, as follows:
• approve Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting Minutes of October S, 2020,
Special Meeting Minutes of October 20, 2020, and October 21, 2020, and Closed
Session Meeting Minutes of October 21, 2020;
• reappoint Marianne Evans and Marty Trotter to the Randolph County Board of
Health;
• reappoint Kim Smith -Grin to the Randolph County Tax Commission and the
Board of Equalization and Review;
• approve Budget Amendment Public Health Women's and Children's Health
($28,123), as follows:
2020-2021 Budget Ordinance
General Fund—Budget Amendment # 24
Revenues
Increase
Decrease
Restricted Intergovernmental
$28,123
Appropriations
Increase
Decrease
Public Health
$28,123
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• approve Budget Amendment Cooperative Extension BAND NC1Southern Rural
Dev Grants ($10,000), as follows:
2020-2021 Budget Ordinance
General Fund—Budget Amendment # 25
Revenues
Increase
Decrease
Restricted Intergovernmental
$10,000
Increase Decrease
Appropriations
Increase
Decrease
Cooperative Extension
$10,000
$90,000
• approve Budget Amendment EMS LEPC Grant ($1,000), as follows:
2020-2021 Budget Ordinance
General Fund—Budget Amendment # 26
Revenues
Increase Decrease
Restricted Intergovernmental
$1,000
Appropriations
Increase Decrease
Emergency Services
$1,000
• approve Budget Amendment Coronavirus Relief Fund ($400), as follows:
2020-2021 Budget Ordinance
General Fund—Budget Amendment # 27
Revenues
Increase
Decrease
Investment Income
$400
Appropriations
Increase
Decrease
Compliance Measures
$90,000
Public Health Expenditures
$400,000
Personnel Reimbursements
$490,400
• reappoint Captain Brian Arrington, Patrick O'Hara and Hal Johnson to the
Randolph County Juvenile Crime Prevention Council;
• reappoint Cathy Hayes to the Randleman Planning and Zoning Board;
• reappoint Darrell Frye to the Piedmont Triad Regional Development Corporation;
• approve Budget Amendment Elections CARES and CLGF ($118,464), as
follows:
2020-2021 Budget Ordinance
General Fund—Budget Amendment # 28
Revenues Increase Decrease
Restricted Intergovernmental $36,500
Miscellaneous $81,964
Appropriations Increase Decrease
Elections $118,464
adopt Proclamation Recognizing November 2020 as Adoption Awareness Month, as
follows:
ADOPTION AWARENESS MONTH -NOVEMBER 2020
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WHEREAS, November is celebrated nationally as ADOPTION AWARENESS
MONTH to express the right of every child to grow up in a permanent, secure, and
loving family; and
WHEREAS, the adoptive experience provides the foundation for a happy,
productive adulthood; and
WHEREAS, the Randolph County Department of Social Services serves nearly 145
children in substitute care who live apart from their birth families and adoption is the
permanent plan for 31 of these children; and
WHEREAS, Randolph County actively promotes the timely adoption of these
children and has finalized 31 adoptions since July 1, 2019, 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.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED, that the Randolph County Board of
Commissioners recognizes November 2020 as ADOPTION AWARENESS MONTH in
our county and we urge our citizens to recognize and support this observance.
Proiect Arm Economic Development Proiect
Kevin Franklin, President of the Economic Development Corporation (EDC) shared a proposed
building renovation project by Platinum Collection Furniture, Inc., a California corporation that
manufactures furniture under the name Ariston Hospitality. Ariston currently has factories in California
and Asia that develop and manufacture a wide array of furnishings for hospitality and commercial
properties. In addition to hotel and resort guestroom furnishings, Ariston also produces seating, case
goods, and millwork for public areas, country clubs, assisted living, and restaurants. They have worked
with major hotels including Marriott, Hilton, Waldorf Astoria, Wynn, and Embassy Suites.
In early 2020, the company purchased High Point -based Motivo, a small furniture company. During
this transaction, the owner, Tony Tsai experienced the High Point furniture industry first-hand and
decided to locate his east coast distribution hub for Ariston here. Long term, they are considering moving
the entire California operation to North Carolina. Their production facilities in Asia will remain in place.
The Company has purchased a vacant commercial property located at 1581 Prospect Street in High
Point and is in the process of repurposing the property to be its flagship manufacturing and warehousing
facility. The property is wholly in High Point, although eighty percent of the building is located in
Guilford County and twenty percent is located in Randolph County. The company has secured the
building, but significant upgrades are needed including HVAC and a new roof.
Total investment required for upfits and renovations to the building is anticipated to be $1,574,600.
Additional investment of more than $800,000 is anticipated for machinery and equipment over the next
three years. The company is committed to creating 15 new jobs directly related to the renovation project
over a two-year period. The average wage of these new jobs will be $37,147, adding over $550,000
annually to the company's payroll. The current Randolph County private sector average wage is
$36,622.
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The project is eligible for a Building Reuse Grant from the N.C. Department of Commerce in the
amount of Ninety Thousand Dollars ($90,000.00). Mr. Franklin requested that the County apply for this
grant on behalf of the company.
The grant requires a five percent local government match of $4,500. Because the property crosses
the county line, the City of High Point will consider providing 80% of this match ($3,600), with
Randolph County providing the remaining 20% ($900).
The County has applied for the Building Reuse Grant in the past. This is a two-year program and the
grant is structured as a deferred forgivable loan as long as all project requirements are met and the project
is closed. In the unlikely event of a default, the property owner is willing to assume the County's
financial risk via a deed of trust or personal guarantee.
The EDC believes that the Platinum Collection Furniture building renovation is a good economic
development project for Randolph County and the City of High Point, increasing the value of the
building and resulting in the creation of 15 quality new jobs. Therefore, the EDC requests that the County
authorize submission of the Building Reuse Grant and commit to 20% of the required local government
match, pending consideration and approval by the City of High Point of the remaining 80%.
Mr. Franklin acknowledged Jeffrey Boykin, Attorney for Ariston, who was representing the company
and was present in the audience.
Mr. Franklin pointed out the average wage in Guilford County is higher than Randolph County, so it
is more likely that the company will receive the grant if Randolph County applies for it.
Public Hearing
Chairman Frye opened the Public Hearing at 6:27pm.
Jeffrey Boykin, 319 Fayetteville St., Suite 309, Raleigh, thanked Mr. Franklin and Crystal Gettys,
as well as the Board for their assistance in this endeavor. The owner of the company is very excited to
bring his business to the area and has purchased a home locally.
After hearing all comments, Chairman Frye closed the Public Hearing at 6:29pm.
On motion of Haywood, seconded by Kidd, the Board voted unanimously to approve the Resolution
Authorizing Application for a Building Reuse Grant and Payment by the County of the Required Local
Match of $900, as follows:
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING APPLICATION FOR A BUILDING REUSE
GRANT AND PAYMENT BY THE COUNTY OF THE REQUIRED LOCAL
MATCH
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
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WHEREAS, Platinum Collection Furniture Inc. (hereinafter "Company') has stated its
commitment to invest $1,5 74,600.00 to renovate and equip an existing, vacantfacility located
at 1581 Prospect Street, High Point, NC and to create 15 new full-time jobs; and
WHEREAS, twenty percent (2001o) of said facility is located in Randolph County
(hereinafter "County') and eighty percent (8001o) of said facility is located in Guilford
County; and
WHEREAS, in order to assist the Company with the cost ofsaid renovation, the Company
has asked the County to seek and administer a Building Reuse Grant from the Department
of Commerce; 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 $90,000.00,
requiring a local match of $4,500. 00; and
WHEREAS, the City ofHigh Point has been asked to consider providing eighty percent
(8001o) of the local match or $3600.00 with the County providing the other twenty percent
(20%) or $900.00; and
WHEREAS, the County has held a public hearing on the matter; and
WHEREAS, this economic development project will stimulate and stabilize the local
economy, promote business in the County, and result in the rehabilitation and use of a
previously empty facility as well as the creation ofa number ofjobs in the County; and
WHEREAS, the County has in its General Fund available revenues sufficient to fund this
economic development project.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Commissioners ofRandolph
County, this 2"d day ofNovember 2020, as follows:
1. The County of Randolph is authorized to submit the application for the $90, 000
Building Reuse Grantfrom the Department ofCommerce to assist Platinum Collection
Furniture, Inc. with the renovation and up -fit of a vacant building located at 1581
Prospect Street, High Point, NC; and
2. If the Building Reuse Grant is awarded, the County is authorized to provide twenty
percent (2001o) of the required local match of $4,500. 00 contingent upon the
commitment of the City ofHigh Point to provide eighty percent (8001o) of the required
local match and contingent upon the Company executing any documents required by
the County to protect its investment in this project.
County Financial Updates
Finance Officer Will Massie said that during the budget process last spring, County Administration
was very uncertain what the County's financial condition would be this year, due to the continuing
spread of the coronavirus, effects of the stay-at-home orders, lingering unemployment, impact of federal
and state assistance, and the public's response to public health safety measures. Many areas of the
country have been severely impacted. Fortunately, Randolph County did not experience these issues as
badly; the majority of businesses stayed open and most citizens continued to work. Unemployment has
improved to 6.7%, better than the state average of 7.3%.
At this time, Mr. Massie said he was pleased to report that the County's financial condition remains
strong. Although the property tax revenue collection declined slightly through June 301h, the County is
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still ahead of budget for the year. Sales tax collections were strong (+7% above last year) before
COVID, and although April collections were down, the County finished the year over 6% ahead of last
year. The Federal CARES Act stimulus apparently helped sustain citizens through the early months of
the crisis.
In addition, the County managed expenditures and underspent departmental budgets, as citizens
expect. The budgeted transfer to the Courthouse Capital Project was suspended until it was known
what the economic impact was going to be. Accordingly, the $2,000,000 remains in the General Fund.
As of June 30th, the County General Fund had an unassigned fund balance of 24%. Any excess over
that amount, per County fiscal policy, is assigned for capital improvements. As of June 30th, that
assigned amount is $6,086,071. As a result, the Board has the flexibility to resume the Courthouse
renovation and other capital projects.
Property tax collections through the first quarter are 5.5% ahead of last year, another good indication
of the health of the local economy. The July sales tax collections apparently were still impacted by
stimulus monies, as there was 13% growth above last year. It is still too soon to know how the remaining
months of the quarter will be. Sales and services continue strong as well. However, interest rates are
near zero, and income will be very low this year.
Vice -Chairman Allen asked if property tax collections through September 1st are above last year
because people are paying earlier due to CARES Act money. Mr. Massie said it could be that or citizens
taking advantage of the discount period. This is indicative of the economic climate as citizen's have the
wherewithal to pay their taxes. Allen asked if this was similar with sales tax as well. Mr. Massie said
the County was ahead with sales tax.
Chairman Frye said we are 13% above last year, not 13% ahead of the budget. Mr. Massie agreed.
Detention Center Capital Proiect Update
County Engineer Paxton Arthurs gave an update on the Detention Center. A new aerial photo is
taken every month. He reviewed the updated floor plan including the addition. Final approval from the
Department of Insurance and DHHS was received for plan approval. Power has been connected.
Additional inspections will be happening shortly.
Chairman Frye asked which date concerns occupancy. Mr. Arthurs said in March 2021, the addition
should be ready for occupancy.
Currently, Bordeaux is seven days behind schedule and has submitted a request for 17 weather days
which would put them ten days ahead of schedule.
Commissioner Allen asked about the anticipated inspections. Mr. Arthurs said that it is an unknown.
The State may come out during different phases of construction. The big unknown at this time is the
smoke control system that is currently undergoing repair.
Mr. Arthurs said that it takes twice as long to complete construction because the building must remain
occupied during renovation.
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Courthouse Capital Proiect Update
County Engineer Paxton Arthurs said in January 2020, the Board authorized a contract to be awarded
to CPL Architects for the renovations for the Clerk of Court in the Courthouse. This included a counter
change and a change to the floor plan and foot print of the division. The pandemic has played a large
part in the changes to the counter space and estates division. Mr. Arthurs reviewed the structural
evaluation for high density storage. Another evaluation by an engineer will be required to reevaluate
high density storage space needs.
There are five phases in the additional construction needed in the courthouse. Mr. Arthurs reviewed
the costs involved to bring the total to $23,200 for the Clerk of Court renovation. Mr. Arthurs asked the
Board to approve the associated Budget Amendment in order to proceed with the project.
Commissioner McDowell said the building is fairly old. Are these the results of age in the building?
Mr. Arthurs said originally the building was designed for certain structural loads and it needs to be
updated.
Chairman Frye asked how comfortable the $2 million budget is. Mr. Arthurs said that it would not
be certain until the bid was finalized. The high density storage will likely come in high. Construction
costs for renovation work are difficult to predict right now.
Commissioner Allen asked for a comparison of the original design fee to the current fee. Originally
it was $89,000, Mr. Arthurs said. This is being adjusted because of the amount that the County Manager
can authorize.
North2ate Commons Capital Proiect Update
County Engineer Paxton Arthurs showed an overhead drawing of the Northgate Commons building
including the Rent -A -Center area which is for future renovations (after 2022), the Asheboro Housing
Authority area that has been mostly renovated, and the prior Dollar General area. The work in the Dollar
General area should be very similar to the work in the Elections space. An asbestos inspection was
recently performed.
Smith-Sinnet Architects created a preliminary design dividing the Dollar General space into an area
for Child Support and the Criminal Division of the Sheriff's Office. Mr. Arthurs asked the Board to
approve the associated Budget Amendment in order to proceed with the design plans of these areas.
Animal Shelter Capital Proiect Update
County Engineer Paxton Arthurs has been working with Animal Services staff to assess needs. Office
space, interior renovations, and an aggressive dog space are needed. There is an old transfer station next
to the Shelter. Waste Management has been using this space for their drivers. There are other buildings
available for them to use. Waste Management has agreed to use one of the other buildings so that the
old transfer station can be used as a home base for Animal Control Officers. There is a new management
structure at the shelter, so a member of the management team will be stationed in the building.
Commissioner Allen asked if this would alleviate space concerns at the Shelter. Mr. Arthurs said
yes.
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Mr. Arthurs showed a drawing of interior upgrades to the Shelter. An aggressive dog kennel area is
needed. Aggressive dogs need to be kept separately from other animals. There will be a new kennel
built adjacent to the Shelter building. It is anticipated to be 24' x 25' and it will require sitework. Access
at the back of the building is needed in order to clean the kennels and care for the animals. This increased
the price. Five companies bid on the project with SE Trogdon and Sons having the lowest bid at
$168,700. There are carryover funds and lapsed salaries to help ease this cost. Mr. Arthurs requested
that the Board award the contract to SE Trogdon and Sons.
Chairman Frye asked how long it would take to construct the kennel building. Mr. Arthurs said the
contractor anticipated it would take three months.
Commissioner Kidd clarified that $150,000 had been allocated but Animal Services had been able to
adjust their budget to accommodate the overage. Mr. Massie said yes.
On motion of Allen, seconded by McDowell, the Board voted unanimously to award the bid to SE
Trogdon and Sons for the Aggressive Dog Kennel at the Animal Shelter in the amount of $168,700.
Budget Amendments for Capital Projects
Mr. Massie discussed two budget amendments. The first is the transfer to the Courthouse project in
the amount of $1,963,775. The second is the transfer to the Northgate Project in the amount of
$2,000,000.
Chairman Frye confirmed that $4,000,000 was from the $6,000,000 of Fund Balance money
earmarked for capital improvements.
Commissioner Allen asked if the funds were being put aside or spent. Mr. Massie said putting the
funds aside will get the design moving along. Commissioner Allen said he is leery of spending money
during the pandemic until sales taxes revenues come in. If it is just an appropriation, it will be set aside
for the project.
Commissioner McDowell agreed with Commissioner Allen on the difference between appropriating
and spending.
Chairman Frye said budgeting would allow the Board to add this to the budget without affecting
policy. Mr. Massie commented if the Board is willing to proceed with the project, the funds need to be
moved to pay the architect.
Mr. Arthurs said the bid for the Courthouse renovations would be pending. For the projects at
Northgate, only preliminary designs have been drawn. After designs are finalized, he would be
presenting those for Board approval.
Chairman Frye restated that the Courthouse renovation bid would be first. Mr. Arthurs said that the
work much further along than the Northgate project.
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Chairman Frye asked if the Northgate project would affect the timing of the Courthouse project. Mr.
Arthurs said no.
Chairman Allen asked if there were any other projects on the horizon. Mr. Massie stated the
Courthouse has already been approved and the Northgate project will develop as it goes along in order
to move Child Support Services to give JDRC more space.
Mr. Arthurs commented that DSS expanding to a satellite office in Archdale was the only other
possible future project at this time.
Commissioner Kidd asked about the Child Support Services plans. Mr. Arthurs confirmed that a
preliminary floor plan had been done. The funding would allow for an architect to be hired.
On motion of Allen, seconded by Kidd, the Board voted unanimously to approve the Budget
Amendment for the Courthouse Capital Project and the Northgate Capital Project as follows:
2020-2021 Budget Ordinance
General Fund—Budget Amendment # 29
Revenues Increase
Decrease
Appropriated Fund Balance $1,963,775
$2,000,000
Appropriations Increase
Decrease
Transfer to Courthouse Capital Project $1,963,775
$2,000,000
2020-2021 Budget Ordinance
General Fund—Budget Amendment # 30
Revenues
Increase Decrease
Appropriated Fund Balance
$2,000,000
Appropriations
Increase Decrease
Transfer to Northgate Capital Project
$2,000,000
Northgate Capital Project Fund
Amendment #5
Revenues Increase Decrease
Trans er rom General Fund $2,000,000
Appropriations Increase Decrease
Professional Services $200,000
Construction $1,700,000
Miscellaneous $100,000
Close a Portion of Cole Mountain Road
Aimee Scotton, Associate Attorney, said a request has been submitted to close a portion of Cole
Mountain Road. The request was submitted by Sherry Craig on behalf of her parents, Milton and Patricia
Cole. The Coles own the property on both sides of the portion of the road that is the subject of the
request. It appears that, at some point in history, the road existed and may have been used, but it has
not been used for many years and trees are currently growing up through the middle of it. This portion
is not State maintained.
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The procedure for closing a public road or easement is governed by North Carolina General Statute
§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 notice must be published
once a week for three successive weeks before the hearing, and a copy of the resolution must be sent by
registered 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. Furthermore, a notice of the closing
and the public hearing must be posted in at least two places along the portion of the road requested to
be closed.
At the public hearing, interested persons are allowed to voice their views on whether the closing will
be detrimental to the public interest or to individual property rights. After the public hearing, if the
Board of Commissioners is satisfied that closing this portion of the road will not be detrimental to public
interest and will not deprive any individual of access to his property, the Board may adopt an order
closing the road. A certified copy of this order shall then be filed with the Register of Deeds office.
Ms. Scotton asked if the Board is willing to consider closing this section of Cole Mountain Road,
please adopt the Resolution announcing intent to close the road and setting a Public Hearing on the
matter to be held during the next regularly scheduled meeting on December 7, 2020.
On motion of, Kidd, seconded by McDowell, the Board voted unanimously to approve the Resolution
Declaring the Intent to Close a Section of Cole Mountain Road and Set a Public Hearing for December
7, 2020, at 6: 00 p.m., as follows:
RESOL UTION DECLARING THE INTENT TO CLOSE A SECTION OF COLE
MOUNTAIN ROAD AND CALLING FOR A PUBLIC HEARING ON THE
QUESTION
WHEREAS, the Randolph County Board of Commissioners has received a request to
permanently close the following section of Cole Mountain Road:
From its intersection with State Road 1138 (Dawson Miller Road) and running along
the western line of Tract #2 s depicted on the survey of Cole Mountain Subdivision
recorded in Plat Book 33, Page 17. See Attachment A for highlighted map of the
portion intended to be closed.
and;
WHEREAS, North Carolina General Statute § 153A-241 requires that the Board of
Commissioners hold a public hearing prior to the closing of any road to consider the effects
ofsaid closing on the public interest or on individual property rights.
BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED that the Randolph County Board of Commissioners
hereby declares its intent to permanently close that section of Cole Mountain Road outlined
above.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Randolph County Board of Commissioners has
set a public hearing at a meeting to begin at 6: 00 p.m. on December 7, 2020 to consider said
closing and to allow for the public to be heard on this matter.
Auction Sale
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Aimee Scotton, Associate Attorney, said on June 18, 2020, the County held a tax foreclosure sale
that included a number of properties. One of these properties, identified by PIN 48726646378 and
hereinafter referred to as the "Property", did not attract any outside bidders, and the County ended up as
the owner of the Property. As of right now, the taxes owed on this Property and the fees incurred in
conducting the foreclosure sale amount to a total of $2,135.99.
Recently, a County tax paralegal was approached by an individual who is interested in acquiring the
Property. North Carolina General Statute §153A-176 authorizes a County to dispose of real property
by any method contained in Chapter 160A, Article 12 of the North Carolina General Statutes. One of
the least expensive methods authorized by that article is public auction.
To sell property by public auction, the board of commissioners must first adopt a resolution
authorizing the sale, describing the property to be sold, specifying the date, time, place and terms of the
sale and stating that any offer or bid must be accepted and confirmed by the board before the sale will
be effective. The resolution may, but does not have to, require that the high bidder at the sale make a
bid deposit in a specified amount. Notice of the sale must be published at least once not less than 30
days before the sale. After the sale is conducted and bids received, the highest bid is reported to the
board, and the board may then accept or reject it.
Ms. Scotton presented a Resolution authorizing the Property to be sold by an auction to be held at
10:00 a.m. on Monday, December 7, 2020. This is the earliest that the sale can be held given the 30 -
day notice requirement. The terms of the sale require a bid deposit of 5% of the amount of the bid. At
the Regular Commissioners Meeting in December, Ms. Scotton will report the results of the sale, and
the Board can then vote to accept or reject the high bid. If the Board wishes to proceed with selling the
Property by auction, Ms. Scotton asked them consider and adopt the Resolution Authorizing the Sale.
On motion ofAllen, seconded by Haywood, the Board voted unanimously to approve the Resolution
Authorizing Auction Sale, as follows:
RESOL UTION A UTHORIZING A UCTION SALE
WHEREAS, Randolph County owns the parcel of land described in Attachment A that is
surplus to its needs; and
WHEREAS, North Carolina General Statutes §153A-176 and §160A-270 permit the
County to sell real property at public auction upon approval by the Board of Commissioners
and after publication of a notice announcing the auction;
THEREFORE, THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF RANDOLPH COUNTY
RESOLVES THAT:
1. The Board of Commissioners authorizes the sale at public auction of the parcel of land
indicated on Attachment A.
2. The auction will be conducted at 10:00 a.m., Monday, December 7, 2020 in Meeting
Room A of the Randolph County Office Building, 725 McDowell Road, Asheboro, NC.
3. The terms of the sale are that the buyer must present at the auction a bid deposit offive
percent (501o) of the amount of the bid, either in cash or with a certified check. The
deposit will be held by the County until either the Board of Commissioners rejects the
high bid for the property or, if the Board of Commissioners accepts the high bid, the
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closing of the sale. The deposit will be forfeited to the County if the high bidder refuses
to close the sale after the bid has been approved by the Board of Commissioners.
4. After the auction, the high bid for the parcel shall be reported to the Board of
Commissioners. The Board of Commissioners will acceptor reject the bid within thirty
(30) days after the bid is reported to it. No sale may be completed until the Board of
Commissioners has approved the high bid.
S. The County reserves the right to withdraw the property from auction at any time before
the auction sale of that property.
ATTACHMENT A
Parcel Available for Public Auction
That parcel identified by Parcel Identification Number 8726-64-6378 acquired by the County
by deed recorded in Deed Book 2711, Page 179 of the Randolph County Registry and more
particularly described as follows:
All of lots 38 and 39 as designated by a plat of Rosenwald Park, recorded in Plat Book 1,
Page 175, Office of the Register ofDeeds ofRandolph County, North Carolina.
Lots 38 and 39, each fronting 25 feet on Carter Street and running back a depth of 177 feet
on the North side and 177 feet on the South side.
Originally known as 0 Newberry Avenue, Liberty, NC 27298; currently known as 0 South
Carter Street, Liberty, NC 27298.
SUBJECT TO ANY AND ALL EASEMENTS AND RESTRICTIONS OF RECORD.
SA VE AND EXCEPT ANY AND ALL CONVEYANCES OF RECORD.
Strategic Planning Allocation for Sandy Creek Bridte
Mary Joan Pugh, Trails/Natural Heritage Coordinator, presented a proposal to allocate $65,000 to
the Deep River Trail and Sandy Creek Bridge Project. Trails have become a necessity. Due to the
pandemic, people need a safe place to get outdoors and exercise. Trails are important to economic
development as well. Employers are looking for outdoor experiences for their employees. She thanked
the Board for allowing her to work with the municipalities and other partners to establish a trails
network. Some of these entities need help with grant applications and administration. Ms. Pugh thanked
the Board for setting aside monies for trail funding.
Ms. Pugh gave an overview of what projects had been leveraged by the money from the Board. She
also displayed a Trail Guide that had been created for Randolph County trails.
Commissioner Haywood said within days of the publishing the Trail Guide, she had a request for one
and she was excited to share the new guide.
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Chairman Frye said $65,000 has been set aside for the trials. Mr. Massie said it had and a Budget
Amendment would be presented next month.
On motion of Haywood, seconded by Allen, the Board voted unanimously to allocate $65, 000 to
the Deep River Trail/Sandy Creek Bridge Project.
Set a Joint Meeting
On motion of Kidd, seconded by Haywood, the Board voted unanimously to set a Joint Special
Meeting with the Asheboro City School Board on February 1P at 6:00 p.m. in the Professional
Development Center.
County Manager's Update
The County Manager did not have any updates.
Commissioner Updates
Commissioner Haywood said today the Board was notified that Randolph County Government has
just been named a 2020 Top 100 Healthiest Workplaces in America. This is a major achievement.
Randolph County has been established to be among the very best in the nation. She thanked Mr. Johnson
and prior Commissioners who had a vision for wellness and acted on it. In 2011 a wellness program
was created. Wellness Administrator Sam Varner was hired in 2016. She thanked Mr. Varner for his
passion and dedication. She thanked the department heads for their collaboration and help in making
this possible. She also thanked the employees. Without employee participation, this would not have
been possible. Employees were willing to take responsibility for their own health and wellbeing as a
result of the program we have in place. Commissioner Haywood is proud of the County and its
progressive wellness program. Part of the County's COVID response involved Mr. Varner, who stepped
into the role as liaison to municipalities and business. Leaders in the County came together to work
with Mr. Varner and Public Health to create safe spaces for citizens.
Commissioner Allen said that the county is not doing well in the pandemic situation. The Strategic
Plan calls for the health, safety, and wellbeing of citizens to be paramount. The Board needs to take a
leadership role in the response. This pandemic will continue for the foreseeable future. It is the job of
County leaders to be vigilant, be up front with citizens, and take responsibility.
Commissioner Allen also said he is the representative for the Board on the NCACC Presidential
initiative. Food systems and resiliency is the initiative for this year. As it develops, updates will be
available as to how the County can participate. This will connect local farmers to people who need food.
Chairman Frye stated that the Board had remained involved in different COVID initiatives. The
citizens were kept informed with 30 COVID videos over summer. The Board is concerned for the
citizens and the county.
Commissioner Kidd commended the Elections department for their work in the early voting process
and keeping everything safe. Chairman Frye reminded everyone to vote on Election Day.
Adjournment
At 7:51 p.m., on motion ofAllen, seconded by Haywood, the Board voted unanimously to adjourn.
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Chairman Darrell Frye David Allen
Kenny Kidd
Hope Haywood
Maxton McDowell
Sarah Pack, Deputy Clerk to the Board
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