090721
September 7, 2021
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. Vice-
Chairman David Allen, Commissioner Kenny Kidd, Commissioner Maxton McDowell, and
Commissioner Hope Haywood were present. Also present were County Manager Hal Johnson,
Assistant County Manager/Finance Officer Will Massie, County Attorney Ben Morgan, and Clerk
to the Board Dana Crisco. Chairman Darrell Frye was absent due to special meeting related to a
major County economic development project. Chaplain Bill Hatfield from the Randolph County
Sheriff’s Office gave the invocation and everyone recited the Pledge of Allegiance. The meeting
was livestreamed on Facebook and YouTube.
Public Comment Period
Pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 153A-52.1, Vice-Chairman Allen opened the floor for public comment
and closed it after everyone wishing to speak had done so. County Attorney Ben Morgan read
aloud the Public Comment Rules of Procedure.
Judy Saunders, 1402 E. Allred St., Asheboro, was in favor of taking the Confederate Statue
down. She felt the statue represents the buying and selling of human beings like they were
animals. She said it shows an ignorance of history. She urged the Commissioner to have it
removed from the front of the Historic Courthouse.
Nancy Sharpless, 3078 Benny Lineberry Rd., Climax, explained how difficult it is to get
reliable broadband service at her house. She has contacted several providers but cannot get service
any better than what she currently has. There is a fiber cable running in front of her house but her
current internet provider won’t connect to it. She urged the Board to help make broadband
connections better in underserved areas.
Commissioner McDowell clarified with Ms. Sharpless that she had a cable line in front of her
house. She said yes.
Vice-Chairman Allen agreed that better connectivity would be a big help.
Jane Braswell, 3762 High Pine Church Rd., Asheboro, was raised in Randolph County. She
said it is a nice place to live. She knew that Randolph County was the only county in North
Carolina that did not vote to secede. No one wants Randolph County to be dragged into what
Alamance County went through recently. (Alamance County was sued by the National Association
for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and other parties to remove the statue at their
courthouse.) In America, we don’t judge people by what their ancestors did. They are judged by
what they do now. She asked that the Board remove the statue.
Pastor James Pemberton, 2015 Holland St., Asheboro, said that the discussion here has
explained all the reasons the statue should be taken down. Jesus said we should love our neighbors
as we love ourselves. We need to put away “things of race.” That was a bad part of our history.
It was a time of brother against brother, man against man. Confederate statues are owned by the
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places where they are. He would like a peaceful situation and have the statue put in a museum.
He does not want this situation to have a negative impact on Asheboro.
Megan Brueilly, 192 Dundee St., Asheboro agreed with removing the statue. She said our
community is facing change. We have learned more of our local history. We are all humans with
different experiences and backgrounds. She stated we should try to put ourselves in others’ shoes.
She is teaching her child about being kind and respectful. The statue is separating neighbors. She
read a quote that she felt was appropriate for the situation. “A true leader has the confidence to
stand alone, the courage to make tough decisions, and the compassion to listen to the needs of
others.” She urged the Board to have the statue taken down and be saved before it gets covered
by graffiti. This would be fair to everyone.
Vice-Chairman Allen stated that members of the Board have had conversations about the statue
and want to make the best decision for everyone. He asked that the citizens please have patience
as the Board works through this request.
Consent Agenda
On the motion of Kidd, seconded by Haywood, the Board voted 4-0 to approve the Consent
Agenda as presented, as follows:
approve Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting Minutes of August 2, 2021;
approve Budget Amendment – Project Amendment #15 – Site Development Project
Fund ($74,000), as follows:
Site Development Capital Project Ordinance
Budget Amendment #15
Revenues Increase Decrease
Rental Fees $74,000
Appropriations Increase Decrease
Miscellaneous $74,000
appoint Jasmin Jones and Jasper Travis Cooke to the Randolph County Juvenile
Crime Prevention Council;
reappoint David Allen and appoint Ann Shaw and Michael Ayers to the Sandhills
Center Board of Directors;
approve Budget Amendment – Public Health – Safe Kids ($1,547), as follows:
2021-2022 Budget Ordinance
Budget Amendment #11
Revenues Increase Decrease
Restricted Intergovernmental $1,547
4245,154
Appropriations Increase Decrease
Public Health $1,547
approve NCDOT Resolution to Allow Piedmont Triad Regional Transportation
(PART) to apply for Federal Assistance, as follows:
5311 DESIGNEE CERTIFICATION FORM
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Resolution No. 090721IVF
Resolution authorizing the filing of applications with the North Carolina Department of
Transportation– Integrated Mobility Division for grant years FY2023– FY2027, for
federal transportation assistance authorized by 49 U.S.C. 5311, United States Code,
other federal statutes administered by the Federal Transit Administration or state
statutes administered by the State of North Carolina.
WHEREAS, the North Carolina Department of Transportation has been delegated
authority to award federal financial assistance for transit projects as allocated
throughout North Carolina by County;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY RANDOLPH COUNTY
1. That SCOTT RHINE is authorized to execute and file an application for federal
assistance on behalf of Piedmont Authority for Regional Transportation
(PART) member agency – Randolph County and associated Route 10 PART
Express services with the State of North Carolina for federal assistance
authorized by 49 U.S.C. Chapter 5311 United States Code, other federal statutes
or state statutes authorizing a project administered by the Federal Transit
Administration.
2. That SCOTT RHINE is authorized to execute and file with its applications the
annual certifications and assurances and other documents the State of North
Carolina requires before awarding a federal assistance grant or cooperative
agreement.
3. That SCOTT RHINE is authorized to execute grant and cooperative agreements
with the State of North Carolina on behalf of the PART Board of Trustees and
member agency Randolph County Board of County Commissioners.
The undersigned duly qualified David Allen, Vice-Chairman of the Board of
Commissioners, acting on behalf of the Randolph County Board of County
Commissioners, certifies that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of a resolution
adopted at a legally convened meeting of the Randolph County Board of
Commissioners held on September 7, 2021.
reappoint Rebecca Petty Moffitt, Shawn Patel, and Ross Holt to the Tourism
Development Authority Board of Directors;
adopt Resolution of Support for the City of Archdale’s Application for an Economic
Development Administration (EDA) American Rescue Plan Act Economic
Adjustment Assistance Grant, as follows:
RESOLUTION OF SUPPORT FOR THE CITY OF ARCHDALE’S
APPLICATION FOR AN
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATION (EDA)
AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT
ECONOMIC ADJUSTMENT ASSISTANCE GRANT
WHEREAS, the economic and health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic have been
tremendous across Randolph County and all of North Carolina; and
WHEREAS, the American Rescue Plan Act was signed into law on March 11, 2021,
to expedite economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic; and
WHEREAS, the Economic Development Administration (EDA) has been charged
with distributing their share of American Rescue Plan Act funding to distressed
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communities, including via grant opportunities such as the Economic Adjustment
Assistance grant; and
WHEREAS, the City of Archdale is located primarily in Randolph County, which has
a Tier 1 distress ranking in the State of North Carolina; and
WHEREAS, the City of Archdale wishes to diversify its economy, become more
resilient against economic fluctuations, and sustainably service citizens with the clean
drinking water and sustainable wastewater utilities necessary in times of declared
emergencies; and
WHEREAS, the City of Archdale seeks to expedite its response and recovery from
the COVID-19 pandemic and also plan and prepare for future economic turmoil with
Economic Adjustment Assistance grant funds; and
WHEREAS, such investments in economic development and public services would
benefit the citizens of Archdale and all of Randolph County; and
WHEREAS, grant applications to the EDA are more favorably received when
regional support has been shown, and where grant funds will benefit broad populations
beyond political boundaries.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Randolph County Board of
Commissioners supports the City of Archdale’s grant application for Economic
Adjustment Assistance from the Economic Development Administration.
Waste Management Annual Update
Bob Peeler, Waste Management Governmental Relations, and Mike McFeeley, District
Manager at the Great Oak Landfill, said along with Waste Management employee Vanessa Infield,
they serve the citizens of Randolph County. They appreciate the partnership with Randolph
County. They try to follow up and fix problems as they are made aware of them. They were able
to have one in-person Citizens Advisory meeting in the last year. There were questions and good
input from the members of the Citizens Advisory Board. Waste Management does have work to
do. He pointed out that since the start of the partnership with the County, Waste Management has
paid over $11 million in fees and over $4 million in taxes.
Commissioner McDowell asked about having enough space to drop used tires. Mr. McFeeley
said the company they use for scrap tire pick-up leaves trailers to fill. Originally, they left two
trailers at a time. Now they leave four.
Vice-Chairman Allen commented that there had been an issue with tire disposal.
Commissioner McDowell said he appreciated what Waste Management has done to address the
tire issue.
Commissioner Haywood had heard that the Citizen Advisory meeting went well. In the annual
report she noticed the amount of scrap batteries and asked where those come from. Mr. McFeeley
said the 100 tons of scrap batteries listed in the report are from citizens disposing of car batteries.
The batteries are then disposed of by Asheboro Recycling.
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Commissioner Haywood asked for an explanation of the site soil usage for daily and
intermittent cover. Mr. McFeeley said that a soil coverage of 10% is based upon the weight of
solid waste that is collected that day. It is used to help keep the smell down.
Commissioner Kidd asked about the gas burn-off. Mr. McFeeley said that a gas emissions
control system was installed at the Landfill in 2020. Since then, more extraction wells and an
active flare that burns continuously have been added. This system has been very helpful in
controlling the smell.
Broadband and Digital Literacy Update
Kenny Sherin, Cooperative Extension Director, gave an update on the program for Broadband
and Digital Literacy. He said Ms. Sharpless who spoke at Public Comment had called him about
her broadband problem. He suggested that she come to share her story with the Board.
Mr. Sherin described Broadband as an “always on” internet connection. Individuals,
households, and communities must have an entry path into broadband. This includes being
AWARE of the potential resources that broadband can provide, having AVAILABLE
infrastructure, and having a computing device capable of effectively providing ACCESS. The next
level focuses on usage through two important elements. People choose to ADOPT internet use by
subscribing to a service and then use this access to ADVANCE life outcomes such as tapping into
education, social services, healthcare, economic opportunities, social connections, and other
essential services.
The NC Broadband Availability Index shows Randolph County having 97.53% of households
with an available connection at a minimum 25/3 (25 Megabits per second (Mbps) download and 3
Mbps upload speed). These numbers are very misleading. The FCC allows broadband providers
to self-report based on census tracts. If a provider reaches at least one person in a census tract, they
can count everyone in that tract as covered, regardless of accessibility of connections. Also, a 25/3
speed threshold is becoming less and less adequate with more demand for essential services being
moved online.
Mr. Sherin explained why Ms. Sharpless was having such a difficult time getting reliable
broadband service. The area around the Sharpless property was already part of a grant program.
CenturyLink got the funding for this project. The stipulations in the grant allow them to count the
speed of 10/1 as high-speed internet. Basically, they got money and did not have to upgrade the
infrastructure because the old copper telephone wire could carry the slow 10/1 speed. Randolph
Communications has their gigabit service close by, but no other company can get funding to install
internet under the current plans with CenturyLink. Mr. Sherin spoke briefly of other grant
programs but these don’t show current service where Ms. Sharpless lives. Carolina Airlink is a
new Fixed Wireless provider in this area. Fixed Wireless will never replace Fiber Optic speeds,
but it is going to take all types of providers to cover rural Randolph County.
A Randolph County School survey was taken in 2021. The results of that survey are as follows:
4740 Responses (30% participation, 15,540 students)
19% had no access to the internet at home
43% had no device at home
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N.C. Cooperative Extension was able to get grant funds of $10,000 from the BAND-NC Round
One grant. Twenty-three computers were purchased and given to the Randolph County Public
Library, YMCA, and Randolph County Schools. Computers were purchased because the survey
Randolph County Schools conducted showed the need for computers ranked higher than the ability
to do remote learning. The BAND-NC program required the County to develop a digital inclusion
plan. To do that, a group of stakeholders was chosen and that group became known as the
Randolph County Digital Alliance (RCDA). The Vision Statement of the RCDA is “In Randolph
County, every household and business will have the opportunity to EARN, LEARN, and BE
WELL by accessing needed digital resources.” The Mission Statement says “The Randolph
County Digital Alliance will work with organizations to eliminate the digital divide by helping
improve access, adoption, and utilization of digital resources.”
With the $5,000 BAND-NC Round Two grant money, Cooperative Extension has hired a Digital
Ambassador to work on the Awareness issues in the county. Mr. Sherin introduced Laura LeGlue
as the new Digital Ambassador. Her role will be to promote the plan and build awareness of the
Randolph County Digital Alliance, solicit participation in the NC Broadband coverage map in
North Carolina, and promote the FCC Emergency Broadband Benefit program to underserved
communities. One of the main roles of the Digital Ambassador is to get more people to take the
NC Broadband Survey across the entire county. This is important because better data will show
where there are slow or no connections in the county. Better data will lead to better resource
allocation. Mr. Sherin said that 183 surveys have been completed. He would like to reach 5000
surveys taken. He briefly explained the Emergency Broadband Benefit and stated that 1801
households are already enrolled.
In order for the RCDA to complete its mission, a Digital Literacy and Skills Coordinator will
need to be hired. The Digital Literacy and Skills Coordinator would provide opportunities and
experiences for Randolph County residents to increase their knowledge and skills for using digital
resources. The Coordinator would be a subject matter resource for current and emerging digital
technologies.
In conclusion, Mr. Sherin stated he has become a National Broadband Fellow in addition to his
current statewide role as Broadband Access and Education Coordinator. On September 1, 2021,
he began his work nationally to help Cooperative Extension Systems build capacity to include
broadband programming. The fellowship comes with $20,000 which will go into the current
budget to offset the County’s portion of his salary for Fiscal Year 2021-22.
Vice-Chairman Allen stated that funding for broadband infrastructure cannot come from the
County. He asked what the Board could do to help. Mr. Sherin suggested the Board could ask
how the current grants are being used. Being aware and being able to ask the questions is helpful
to make the program a success.
Commissioner McDowell asked Mr. Sherin when he thought Ms. Sharpless could have reliable
broadband service. Mr. Sherin responded that Carolina Airlink may be able to meet her needs.
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Commissioner Haywood reiterated the need to complete the broadband survey. Mr. Sherin said
better data will create better service and would help tremendously to put the grant money in the
right places.
Commissioner Haywood mentioned that last year, some students had to rely on computers and
hotspots that had been provided. She asked where else students can receive a strong broadband
signal. Mr. Sherin said that libraries have access. He also mentioned the use of school buses with
hotspots that can be taken out in rural areas for digital learning. Commissioner Kidd stated that
the YMCA has community Wi-Fi.
K-9 Purchase and Training
Justin Brubaker, Sheriff’s Office Business Manager, said Sheriff Seabolt had made the K-9
program a priority in 2019. Since that time, half a million dollars worth of seizures have occurred
as the dogs have located narcotics. He stated he was requesting the use of Law Enforcement
Restricted Funds for the purchase of a K-9 and training.
Mr. Brubaker introduced Sgt. Russell Hogan who is responsible for the K-9 program at the
Sheriff’s Office.
Vice-Chairman Allen asked if the training provider was the same as in the past. Sgt. Hogan
said no, the provider has been changed. The new training program is based in Texas.
Vice-Chairman Allen asked if it was more expensive than the previous training. Sgt. Hogan
said it was but the training period is longer.
Commissioner Kidd stated that it was a turnkey process. Sgt. Hogan agreed.
Vice-Chairman Allen asked if there were facilities available to house another animal. Sgt.
Hogan said yes; the requested expenses are for the dog only. Sgt. Hogan stated that K-9 officers
are a vital part of the Sheriff’s Office.
Commissioner Haywood inquired if this dog would be a single or dual-purpose K-9. Sgt.
Hogan replied that this will be a dual-purpose K-9.
Commissioner Haywood asked what breed would be used. Sgt. Hogan said this a new breed
that is called a “Maliherd” and it is a cross between a Belgian Malinois and a German Shepherd.
Commissioner Haywood asked if this was the first dog received from this new training academy
and Sgt. Hogan confirmed. Commissioner Haywood said previously there was a dog that had to
be sent back, which resulted in having to train another dog and it cost more money. She posed a
question regarding whether or not a longer training program could prevent situations like this in
the future. She asked Sgt. Hogan to keep the Board apprised of the dog’s progress; it would be
prudent to try to prevent having to send any more dogs back. She is interested to see if there is a
difference in the dogs themselves resulting from the extending training.
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On motion of Kidd, seconded by Haywood, the Board voted 4-0 to approve the expenditure of
Law Enforcement Restricted Funds in the amount of $16,000 to pay for an additional K-9 and
training expenses, as follows:
2021-2022 Budget Ordinance
Budget Amendment #12
Revenues Increase Decrease
Restricted Fund Balance Appropriated $16,000
Appropriations Increase Decrease
Sheriff $16,000
Water/Sewer Study for Prospective Industrial Park
Crystal Gettys, Economic Development Corporation (EDC) Business Recruitment Director,
said approximately 175 acres of a 267-acre tract at I-74 and US Hwy 311 in Sophia are under
developer control and are being marketed for industrial development. In an effort to ensure that
the property can be served by water and sewer in sufficient capacity to support industrial
development, the EDC entered into an agreement with Hiram Marziano, PE, to conduct a
water/sewer feasibility study. Mr. Marziano has completed his analysis and has concluded that
water and sewer can be extended in sufficient capacity to serve the site.
Total cost for the study was $30,000. The EDC suggested that the cost be split evenly among
the EDC, Randolph County, and the City of Randleman at $10,000 each. Prior to entering into
agreement with Mr. Marziano, EDC staff conferred with County and City officials to inform them
that a request would be made for funding assistance. The City of Randleman has formally approved
funding a third of the cost in the amount of $10,000. The EDC is requested that the County consider
doing likewise.
Based on third-party evaluation conducted through the Duke Energy Site Readiness Program,
the proposed industrial park will be a highly desirable location for future investment in industrial
development, provided water and sewer can be extended to the site. The engineering feasibility
study commissioned by the EDC is the first step in that process.
Ms. Gettys respectfully requested that the Board consider reimbursing the EDC for a third of
the cost of the above-mentioned engineering study in the amount of $10,000.
Vice-Chairmen Allen asked if there is enough capacity currently. Ms. Gettys said the capacity
increase is being worked on.
Public Hearing
Vice-Chairman Allen opened the Public Hearing at 7:21 p.m. and closed it after no one wished
to speak.
Commissioner Kidd stated that getting a site ready property available is a cooperation between
this Board and the municipalities.
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Commissioner Haywood wanted citizens to know how important it was to receive an evaluation
from the Duke Energy Site Readiness Program.
Vice Chairman Allen stated it was a stamp of approval that this is a viable site.
On motion of Haywood, seconded by Kidd, the Board voted 4-0 to approve the Resolution
Authorizing the County of Randolph to Enter Into an Agreement to Share Costs of an Economic
Development Project Feasibility Study and the Associated Budget Amendment for $10,000, as
follows:
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY OF RANDOLPH TO ENTER
INTO AN AGREEMENT TO SHARE COSTS OF AN ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY
WHEREAS, the Randolph County Economic Development Corporation (“EDC”)
is a nonprofit corporation that works with new and existing industries for the creation
of new jobs and expanded tax base in Randolph County (the “County”) to promote a
stronger local economy; and
WHEREAS, in marketing the County to businesses seeking to expand and possibly
locate therein, the EDC has identified that there is a scarcity in the County of sites
ready for immediate industrial development; and
WHEREAS, the property located at I-74 and U.S. Hwy. 311 in Sophia, specifically
consisting of the entire tract identified by property identification number 7745884623
and that portion of the tract identified by property identification number 7745862260
located east of Wall Brothers Road (collectively the “Site”) has been identified as a
highly desirable location for future investment in industrial development, provided that
water and sewer can be extended to the Site; and
WHEREAS, the EDC has commissioned a water/sewer feasibility study of the Site
at a total cost of $30,000.00; and
WHEREAS, the EDC has requested that the County, the City of Randleman (the
“City”) and the EDC share equally in the cost of the feasibility study, with each entity
contributing $10,000.00 to the EDC as reimbursement for the cost of the study; and
WHEREAS, Section 158-7.1(b)(7) of the North Carolina General Statutes
authorize the County to engage in site preparation for industrial properties or facilities,
whether the industrial property or facility is publicly or privately owned; and
WHEREAS, the Board of Commissioners of Randolph County has held a public
hearing to consider whether to contribute $10,000.00 towards the cost of the
water/sewer feasibility study of the Site; and
WHEREAS, this is the first step in an economic development project that, if
completed, will stimulate and stabilize the local economy, promote business in the
County and City, and result in the creation of a significant number of jobs in the County
and City; 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 of
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Randolph County, this 7 day of September, 2021, as follows:
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Section 1. The County is authorized to expend up to ten thousand dollars
($10,000.00) of County funds to reimburse the EDC for a portion of the cost of
the water/sewer feasibility study referenced above.
Section 2. Participation by the County in this economic development project is
expressly contingent upon participation by the City of Randleman and the
Randolph County Economic Development Corporation as outlined herein.
2021-2022 Budget Ordinance
Budget Amendment #13
Revenues Increase Decrease
Transfer from ED Reserve $10,000
Appropriations Increase Decrease
Other Economic and Physical Development $10,000
Eden Terrace Pre-Construction
Crystal Gettys, Economic Development Corporation (EDC) Business Recruitment Director,
said the Eden Terrace site is a 35-acre tract of land in Archdale with road frontage on Eden Terrace
and Archdale Boulevard. The entire tract is zoned for industrial use, has available access to utility
infrastructure, and is under developer control with Samet Corporation holding an option.
The proposed pre-construction services following these minutes as Attachment A address
necessary due diligence steps to make the site more marketable by reducing client cost, timeline,
and uncertainty and is a necessary step in determining whether to engage in speculative
development on this site.
The estimated cost of the proposed pre-construction services is $124,800. The EDC proposes
dividing the cost evenly among four partners, including Randolph County, at $31,200 per entity.
The City of Archdale, Samet Corp., and the EDC have each authorized participation at $31,200
pending approval by Randolph County.
The EDC requested that Randolph County participate as a partner in this project by committing
to an investment of $31,200 for pre-development services at the Eden Terrace site.
Vice-Chairman Allen asked if Samet contracts out the pre-construction services. Ms. Gettys
stated that a lot of work is done in-house and Samet is willing to put their funds into the project.
Public Hearing
Vice-Chairman Allen opened the Public Hearing at 7:27 p.m. and closed it after no one wished
to speak.
Commissioner Kidd reminded everyone that this is another step to have site ready locations.
Vice-Chairman Allen said the Board was partnering with Archdale to make this happen.
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On motion of Kidd, seconded by Haywood, the Board voted 4-0 to approve the Resolution
Authorizing the County of Randolph to Enter into an Economic Development Project for Pre-
Construction Services at 907 Eden Terrace and the Associated Budget Amendment for $31,200,
as follows:
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY OF RANDOLPH TO ENTER
INTO AN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PROJECT FOR PRE-
CONSTRUCTION SERVICES AT 907 EDEN TERRACE
WHEREAS, the Randolph County Economic Development Corporation (“EDC”)
is a nonprofit corporation that works with new and existing industries for the creation
of new jobs and expanded tax base in Randolph County (the “County”) to promote a
stronger local economy; and
WHEREAS, in marketing the County to businesses seeking to expand and possibly
locate therein, the EDC has identified that there is a scarcity in the County of available
buildings of appropriate size and design to make them useful and attractive to said
businesses; and
WHEREAS, the property located at 907 Eden Terrace, Archdale, North Carolina
(the “Property”) has been identified as a desirable location for the possible
construction of a speculative building; and
WHEREAS, Samet Properties, LLC (“Samet”) has expertise in constructing and
marketing buildings for commercial and industrial use; and
WHEREAS, the Board of Commissioners of Randolph County has held a public
hearing to consider whether to participate in an economic development project with
the City of Archdale, Samet and the EDC to accomplish preconstruction services at the
Property in connection with the possible future construction of a speculative building
approximately 117,000 square feet in size; and
WHEREAS, the proposed project entails the performance by Samet of certain pre-
construction services at the Property, including but not limited to, architectural,
structural and civil design; a boundary and topographic survey; subsurface and
geotechnical analysis; and pre-construction management and coordination for the
above-described speculative building (the “Services”); and
WHEREAS, the estimated cost of the Services is $124,800.00; and
WHEREAS, under the proposed arrangement, the County, the City, Samet and the
EDC will share equally in the cost of the Services, with each entity providing
$31,200.00; and
WHEREAS, Section 158-7.1(b)(7) of the North Carolina General Statutes
authorize the County to engage in site preparation for industrial properties or facilities,
whether the industrial property or facility is publicly or privately owned; and
WHEREAS, this is the first step in an economic development project that, if
completed, will stimulate and stabilize the local economy, promote business in the
County and City, and result in the creation of a significant number of jobs in the County
and City; and
WHEREAS, regardless of the ultimate construction of a speculative building, the
completion of the preconstruction services contemplated herein will result in a better-
prepared and more marketable site in the County and the City; and
WHEREAS, the County has in its General Fund available revenues sufficient to
fund this economic development project;
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NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Commissioners of
th
Randolph County, this 7 day of September, 2021, as follows:
Section 1. The County is authorized to expend up to thirty-one thousand two
hundred dollars ($31,200.00) of County funds for the pre-construction services
referenced above.
Section 2. Participation by the County in this economic development project is
expressly contingent upon participation by the City of Archdale, Samet
Properties, LLC, and the Randolph County Economic Development
Corporation as outlined herein.
2021-2022 Budget Ordinance
Budget Amendment #14
Revenues Increase Decrease
Transfer from ED Reserve $31,200
Appropriations Increase Decrease
Other Economic and Physical Development $31,200
Building Reuse Grant – Mickey Truck Bodies
Crystal Gettys, Economic Development Corporation (EDC) Business Recruitment Director,
said Mickey Truck Bodies Inc is a manufacturer of beverage bodies and trailers, dry freight and
refrigerated van bodies, and emergency vehicle bodies that provide transportation equipment for
the food and beverage industry, bottled water and propane cylinder delivery industry, and the
emergency vehicle industry. The company was founded in High Point in 1904 and remains
headquartered in High Point. Mickey currently has 320 full-time employees in the Triad area of
North Carolina.
In an effort to meet growing demand, Mickey Truck Bodies has identified the property at 6099
Prospect St. in the Trinity community as a suitable location for expansion. The 17,280 square foot
building rests on 9.71 acres and is located just outside of Trinity City limits in the city’s extra-
territorial jurisdiction (ETJ). The building has been vacant for approximately seven years. Mickey
has a contract to purchase the property pending completion of due diligence.
Mickey Truck Bodies anticipates investing $488,630 in the property, including $353,630 in
building upfits and renovations and $135,000 in machinery and equipment. The company is
committed to creating twenty (20) new jobs in Randolph County as part of this project. The average
annual wage of these new jobs will be $52,000.
The Mickey Truck Body renovation project is eligible for an N.C. Commerce Building Reuse
Grant of up to $176,815, or half of the estimated renovation cost. N.C. Commerce no longer
requires a local government cash match commitment for Building Reuse Grant projects. However,
other elements of the program remain unchanged, namely:
A unit of local government must serve as the applicant.
The program requires a dollar-for-dollar match by the company.
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The program is structured as a forgivable loan which would be administered by the
County.
The County must guarantee the loan through a binding contract with the State.
The company has 18 months to complete the renovations and the hiring, and must then
retain the jobs for an additional six months, at which point the loan is forgiven and the
grant closed.
If the company does not meet its hiring and retention goal, it is obligated to repay the
loan on a per-job basis (i.e. $12,500 for each job). The County would be responsible for
ensuring that repayment is made, and the County would be liable for repayment to the
State if the property owner defaults on its payment. In the unlikely event of a default, the
property owner is willing to assume this risk via a deed of trust or similar financial
instrument.
The targeted submission deadline for the grant application was August 26, with award
announcements scheduled for October. The full application packet was submitted to NC
Commerce by the application deadline, but the application will be held at Commerce pending
approval by the Randolph County Board of Commissioners.
The EDC believes that the Mickey Truck Bodies building renovation project is a good
economic development project for Randolph County, increasing the value of the building and
resulting in the creation of 20 new quality jobs. Therefore, the EDC requested that the County
authorize submission of the grant application.
Public Hearing
Vice-Chairman Allen opened the Public Hearing at 7:34 p.m. and closed it after hearing no
additional comments.
Matt Sink, 5251 River Road, Jamestown, CEO for Mickey Truck Bodies, said they are very
excited to operate a facility in Randolph County. He assured everyone that the company is team
oriented and stresses a safe work atmosphere.
Vice-Chairman Allen said he had gotten good feedback from others regarding the business.
Commissioner Kidd asked if there would be some kind of financial security. Vice-Chairman
Allen said a deed of trust from Mickey Truck Bodies, Inc. would be sufficient.
Commissioner Kidd stated that he wanted the County to be covered. Vice-Chairman Allen said
the County had dealt with a company that defaulted on a loan in the past..
Commissioner Haywood commented that the salary for the jobs created is much above the
average wage for Randolph County.
On motion of Kidd, seconded by Haywood, the Board voted 4-0 to approve the Resolution
Authorizing the County of Randolph to Apply for a Building Reuse Grant for Mickey Truck Bodies,
Inc. Economic Development Project, as follows:
9/7/21
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY OF RANDOLPH TO APPLY
FOR A BUILDING REUSE GRANT FOR THE MICKEY TRUCK BODIES, INC.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
WHEREAS, Section 158-7.1 of the North Carolina General Statutes authorizes a
county to undertake an economic development project by extending assistance to a
company in order to cause the company to locate or expand its operations within the
county; and
WHEREAS, the North Carolina General Assembly has authorized funds to be used
for stimulating economic development and job creation; and
WHEREAS, Mickey Truck Bodies, Inc. (“Company”) has stated its commitment to
invest four hundred eighty-eight thousand six hundred thirty dollars ($488,630.00),
including three hundred fifty-three thousand six hundred thirty dollars ($353,630.00)
in building renovations, to expand its operations to 6099 Prospect Street, Archdale,
Randolph County and to create twenty (20) new full-time jobs with an average annual
salary of fifty-two thousand dollars ($52,000.00) in Randolph County; and
WHEREAS, the County of Randolph has been asked to file an application with the
North Carolina Department of Commerce for a Building Reuse Grant on behalf of the
Company; and
WHEREAS, said Grant is structured as a forgivable loan to be administered by the
County; and
WHEREAS, in the event that the Company does not meet the requirements of the
Grant, the County is responsible for ensuring that Grant funds are repaid; and
WHEREAS, the Company has agreed to secure the Grant funds through granting
a deed of trust or similar financial instrument to the County; and
WHEREAS, the amount of the Grant that the Company is eligible for is up to one
hundred seventy-six thousand eight hundred fifteen dollars ($176,815.00); and
WHEREAS, the Board of Commissioners of Randolph County has held a public
hearing to consider whether to participate in this project by applying for the grant and
administering the grant if awarded; and
WHEREAS, upon the completion by the Company of this expansion project, the
Company will have expended four hundred eighty-eight thousand six hundred thirty
dollars ($488,630.00), including three hundred fifty-three thousand six hundred thirty
dollars ($353,630.00) in building renovations, and will have created a minimum of
twenty (20) new full-time jobs with an average annual salary of fifty-two thousand
dollars ($52,000.00) in Randolph County; and
WHEREAS, this economic development project will stimulate and stabilize the
local economy, promote business in the County, and result in the creation of a number
of jobs in the County;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Commissioners of
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Randolph County, this 7 day of September 2021, as follows:
The County is authorized to apply for a North Carolina Building Reuse Grant
from the North Carolina Department of Commerce for the Mickey Truck Bodies,
Inc. expansion project as detailed herein.
County Manager’s Updates
9/7/21
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County Manager Hal Johnson reminded the Board about a Special Meeting on September 15
regarding American Rescue Plan recovery fund requests.
Commissioner Updates
Vice-Chairman Allen said the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners (NCACC)
awarded Randolph County for excellence in tracking the Coronavirus. He reminded everyone to
continue doing their part to slow the spread of Covid-19.
Adjournment
At 7:39 p.m. on motion of Haywood, seconded by Kidd, the Board voted 4-0 to adjourn.
________________________________ ________________________________
David Allen, Vice-Chairman Kenny Kidd
________________________________ _________________________________
Maxton McDowell Hope Haywood
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Dana Crisco, Clerk to the Board
9/7/21