HomeMy WebLinkAboutMarch_5_2013_Regular_MinutesIREDELL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MINUTES
MARCH 5, 2013
The Iredell County Board of Commissioners met on Tuesday, March 5, 2013, at 7:00
PM, in the Iredell County Government Center (Commissioners' Meeting Room), 200 South
Center Street, Statesville, NC.
Board Members Present
Chairman Steve Johnson
Vice Chairman Marvin Norman
David Boone
Renee Griffith
Ken Robertson
Staff present: County Manager Ron Smith, County Attorney Bill Pope, Finance Director
Susan Blumenstein, Planner Matthew Todd, Planning/Development and Transportation Director
Joey Raczkowski, Human Resources Director Sandra Gregory, and Clerk to the Board
Jean Moore.
CALL TO ORDER by Chairman Johnson
INVOCATION by Chairman Johnson
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ADJUSTMENTS OF THE AGENDA: MOTION by Chairman Johnson to approve the
agenda with the following adjustments.
Deletion: • Request from the Facility Services Department for Permission to Raze a
Structure (former Youth Home) and Storage Shed located at 232 Twin Oaks
Road, Statesville, NC, along with the Waiver of $4,958 in Associated
Landfill Tipping Fees
Additions: • Request for Approval of Budget Amendment #27 for the Appropriation of
Fund Balance ($57,200) to General Governmental — Buildings/Building
Improvements Associated with the Purchase of Property at 321 Harrill
Street, Statesville, NC, and the Demolition of a Structure on the Site
• Closed Session Pursuant to G.S. 143-318.11 (a) (3) — Attorney/Client
VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Chairman Johnson declared the meeting to be in a public hearing for the following three
subject matters. (Mr. Todd presented all of the amendments at one time, and public comments were
received during the marinas/boat repair segment. Each item was separately voted upon.)
Consideration of Land Development Code Text Amendments Regarding: Private
Aircraft Hangers, Marinas & Boat Repairs and Solar Farms: Planner Matthew Todd
presented the staff reports for the three subject matters beginning with private aircraft hangers as
follows:
Private Aircraft Hanaers
I EXPLANATION OF THE REQUEST I
The following staff -initiated text amendment to the Land Development Code is being presented
for approval. Text in red and underlined is new text to be added.
STAFF COMMENTS
Before the Land Development Code was developed, the zoning regulations allowed an
exemption for airplane hangars as accessory structures. Inadvertently, this exemption was
omitted from the accessory building section when the LDC was adopted. Based on that
omission, the staff is proposing the following amendment to the Land Development Code.
The Planning Board voted 7-0 to recommend approval of the amendment on December 5, 2012.
PROPOSED TEXT AMENDMENT
Chapter 3 Performance Requirements
Accessory Buildings and Structures
For the purposes of determining square footage for this section, measure from the outermost
structural support members of any portion of the building that is under roof (including all covered
porches, open storage areas, etc).
Accessory buildings and structures shall meet the following requirements:
A. In residential zoning districts, accessory buildings and structures:
I . Shall NOT be erected in front of the front building line of the principal structure, except as
provided for in B. below;
2. Shall NOT be erected within twenty-five (25) feet of any side street on a corner lot;
3. Shall NOT be erected within ten (10) feet of any property line NOT a street line or within
ten (10) feet of any other building on the same lot;
4. Accessory buildings and structures greater than 1,200 square feet shall be setback a
minimum of fifty (50) feet from any property line (the fifty (50) foot setback will NOT apply
if the adjacent property is either zoned commercially or is a legal non -conforming
commercial use);
5. Shall NOT exceed the height limitation for the principal structure;
b. Shall NOT be permitted except as accessory to a principal building either existing or
under construction on the same lot.
7. Shall NOT be used for human habitation except as provided for in Rb, Accessory Dwelling
Unit.
B. Notwithstanding A (1) above, in residential districts on lots of one (1) acre or larger, an
accessory building or structure may be located in the front yard provided it is NOT located
within 150 feet of the frontage street right-of-way line. In addition, in any residential district,
one gazebo -type accessory building may be located in the front yard provided it is set back
at least one-half ('/2) the required setback for the principal building.
A special use permit may be granted by the Board of Adjustment to allow accessory
buildings and structures in front of the front building line provided the front setback is
maintained.
C. In non-residential zoning districts, accessory buildings and structures:
1. May be located in front of the front building line of the principal building, but shall follow
the same front yard setback as the principal building;
2. Shall comply with A (2), (3) and (5) above.
D. Use of mobile homes for storage prohibited in residential and 0&1 districts.
The use of mobile homes, travel trailers, tractor trailers and similar vehicles for storage
purposes shall be expressly prohibited in all Residential and Office and Institutional Districts.
E. Privately owned aircraft hangars are exempt from size limitations, but shall meet the
accessory building setback requirements as described in A (1), (2) and (3) above.
Commissioner Boone said it was understood that aircraft hangars would have the same
setback requirements as other accessory buildings that were less than 1,200 square feet in size.
Todd said correct, and when exceeded (1,200 square feet), the code required a 50 -foot
setback, and this was unrealistic for the Lake Norman Airpark lots.
No one else desired to speak, and Chairman Johnson adjourned the hearing.
2
OTION by Commissioner Robertson to approve the private aircraft hangar
amendments.
VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0.
EXPLANATION OF THE REQUEST
The following staff -initiated text amendment to the Land Development Code is being presented
for approval.
Existing text that is is text to be removed. Text in red and underlined
is new text to be added.
STAFF COMMENTS
The purpose of this amendment is clarify what constitutes a marina and identify uses that may
be permitted as part of a marina. This is being done as a result of a staff interpretation that a
restaurant could be an accessory use to a marina. On December 16, 2010, based on the staff
interpretation, the Board of Adjustment approved a Special Use Permit request that included
additional piers and a restaurant for Stuffs Marina on Stuffs Road in Mooresville. The decision
was appealed to Superior Court based on the fact that restaurants were not allowed in the RR
zoning district. The judge overturned the decision by the Board, stating that restaurants were not
allowed in the RR district and were not an accessory use as defined in our ordinance. After the
ruling, which was filed on March 20, 2012, the Planning staff began reviewing the marina
regulations to see how we could improve upon the definition of a marina.
Boat repairs and service stations are currently permitted in the RA and RR districts with a special
use permit. This was allowed because marinas were allowed in those districts with a special use
permit, although anyone in the RA and RR district could apply for a special use permit for a boat
repair business without it being part of a marina. The proposed changes to the marina section
include boat repair, therefore the staff would like to take boat repair out of the RA and RR
districts unless it is associated with a marina. The use would still be permitted in the GB, M-1, and
M-2 districts. Also, the Performance Requirements that are associated with boat repair in R43 are
intended more for the use if it is permitted in the RA and RR districts. The staff does not feel that
these should apply in the GB, M-1, and M-2 districts, therefore we would like to delete this
Performance Requirement from the LDC and leave it open for future use.
The staff is proposing the following amendments to the Land Development Code to address
issues with marinas and boat repairs.
The Planning Board voted 6-0 to recommend approval of the amendment on December 5th,
2012.
PROPOSED TEXT AMENDMENT
R 33 Marinas, Commercial
In the RA and RR Districts Marinas permitted as Special Uses shall meet the following minimum
standards:
A. Minimum lot size - four (4) contiguous acres
B. Minimum frontage on a public street - 200 feet
C. Minimum shoreline frontage - 200 feet
D. Minimum yard requirements - as required for the zoning district in which located provided
that water dependent structures shall be exempt from setbacks from the shoreline.
E. No outdoor storage of new or used parts, items for salvage, items for retail sale or similar
items. Boats and/or boat trailers may be stored outdoors.
Section 16.4 Definitions
MarinaA facility containing moorings and boat slips available for the use of the
general public and which rnay also offer supplies and servines for boaters including .dry doc
and repair services including structures and activities normally integral to the operation of a
marina such as but not limited to dry dock, repair services, fueling, pumping -out, chartering,
launching, boat and let ski rentals, the sale of supplies and convenience goods for use in
recreational boating and boat maintenance, and recreational concession stands. This does not
include community piers or other non-commercial boat docking and storage facilities. (See
Chapter 3, R 33)
Recreational Concession Stand. A structure devoted to the sale of snacks, beverages, or other
light meals, whether prepared in the structure or pre -prepared, and providing no inside seating
or drive-thru service. This use shall be operated in conjunction with a use permitted in the
district.
Section 2.21.3 Commercial Uses
USES
AC
RA
RUR
RR
R20
R12
R8
RO
OI
NB
HB
GB
M1
M2
R
Boat service
stations, no major
g
g
X
X
X
43
repair
R43 Reserved for future use
Chairman Johnson mentioned that the amendment would allow consumption of food, but
there would be no tables where patrons could sit.
Todd said correct.
Chairman Johnson said that in regards to the Stutts Marina, people had complained to
him about activities occurring around the restaurant at all hours of the night, including noise and
traffic, rather than actually complaining about the eating establishment. He asked if the code
adequately addressed the referenced problems.
Todd said, "The same as before, the same process will apply. It is still a special use
permit in the RA and RR districts. It has to go back through the board of adjustment for
approval. This is clarifying what would be permitted versus what is not with the definition. It
would still be up to the board of adjustment members. They could place specific conditions and
be more stringent than the ordinance."
Commissioner Griffith asked if this would preclude picnic tables outside of a concession
stand.
Todd said the code did not get that specific. He said, however, the language probably
would not prohibit picnic tables.
Commissioner Boone asked the reason behind the deletion of free standing boat repair
facilities. He said it was understood that with the current language, someone could build such a
facility in the RA or RR districts with a special use permit. Boone said that if the amendments
were approved, a person would need to have the property rezoned in order to have the boat repair
facilities.
Todd said this was correct. He said free standing boat repair facilities did not fit in RA or
RR if they were not associated with a marina. Todd said the staff felt the matter was being taken
care of through the marina definition.
James DeYounZ, 309 Shoreline Loop, Mooresville, NC, submitted and read the following
prepared statement: "The newly proposed recreational concession stand definition states: this
use shall be operated in conjunction with a use permitted in the district. Since neither a
restaurant nor a bar is listed as a permitted use under the RR designation, and since this is a
new entity that appears to be a combination of both, does this mean that Starts Marina may not
have a recreational concession stand? On October 3, 2012, when discussing the new text
amendments, the planning board was concerned that alcohol sales would increase and cause
greater danger. Mr. Todd stated that an ABC permit would be issued and regulated by the state
of North Carolina. He stated that alcohol sales would be permitted only if the use was permitted
by zoning. Sadly, no one appears to be regulating Stints Marina because they are currently
4
serving alcoholic drinks on premises. Stutts is surrounded by R-20 residential homes. Why
would the commission allow a restaurant, a bar, or any entity that combines the two in an area
they have designated resort residential? The regulations of this district are intended to insure
that the principal use of the land is for low-to-medium density, recreational purposes. This type
of commercial business does not belong among our homes. When 1 moved into my, home more
than thirty years ago, Stutts was zoned R-20 just like my home. It remained that way until 2001
when the board of commissioners changed the designation to RR. It was Stutts Bait and Tackle
Shop, and it serviced the local fishermen. These proposed amendments would change the entire
environment of our neighborhood. They would add the possibility of a restaurant/bar, by
whatever name they are masquerading, being in our residential neighborhood despite the
county's own ruling that restaurants and bars are not allowed in RR zones ... a rose by any other
name. The residential resort district is defined in the Iredell County Land Use Plan and Codes
by two basic things: residential and low density. These text amendments violate both basic
tenets as well as the Superior Court ruling of no restaurant. The construction and operation of a
restaurant at Stutts is not among the uses listed as eligible for an RR district. It is also not in
harmony with the area and would not be in conformity with the plan of development for the
Counts. My request is that the term recreational concession stand not be entered anywhere in
the zoning ordinances or marina description. However, if you are inclined to include this
designation, I would like to offer this definition as a compromise: Recreational Concession
Stand - A structure in which the sale of beverages, snacks and packaged snack foods is
permitted. The beverages, snacks and packaged snack foods shall be prepared off-site
and not prepared in the structure. There shall be no inside seating or drive-thru service
in the Recreational Concession Stand. The Recreational Concession Stand may be
operated in conjunction with another use or uses permitted in the district."
Connie Kirsch, a resident of 291 Shoreline Loop, Mooresville, NC, submitted and read
the following prepared remarks: `I am concerned about the new definition of a marina. The
zoning on all the marinas in Iredell County, is not the same. Some marinas are listed GB, some
CUD, some RR, and because of the various zonings some marinas already have restaurants.
How could one definition of a marina work when the marinas are in varying zoning districts? In
the past, the Iredell County BOA ruled against any sales or leasing of boats at Stutts. Now the
definition includes boat and jet-ski rentals that should not apply to Resort Residential. See 2-44
and 2-47 of the Iredell County Land Development Code. Both prohibit recreational vehicle sales
and service recreational concession stands --not allowed in RR --just another name for
restaurant/bar with four or more acres of outdoor seating. How large can these structures be?
Are there no concerns about pollution to the lake? If the patrons of the concession stands eat on
their boats and jet skis, the possibility of debris goes way up. The Iredell County definition of a
restaurant says nothing about where the food is consumed. It has been ruled that a restaurant is
not allowed in an RR zone. Yet according to this new definition every marina can have a
recreation concession stand... another name for a restaurant. If all the components of the new
definition of marina are applied to a marina in an RR district, the result would be commercial
and high density. A marina owner who desires to expand to that degree should purchase land in
a commercial or business district --not a resort residential zone. The county sets our land value
per linear shoreline foot approximately four times higher than the land at Stutts' marina, and we
can't sell gas or rent slips to offset our costs. Ours is a modest neighborhood built in the 1970s.
We understand there will be boats, and we love to see people enjoying the lake. However in the
end, proportionately, we have a lot more skin in the game than the marina does. If Stutts were
allowed to expand to the full extent of this definition, and not be held to the appropriate
guidelines for a commercial marina as stated in the SMG, it would not diminish our property
value. It would destroy our property value. I respectfully submit that the definition of marina
be left as it is so that each marina can be considered on a case-by-case basis in order to
comply with the County zoning laws and the Shoreline Management Guidelines. Please deny
these amendments. "
John Kerhoulas, 294 Shoreline Loop, Mooresville, NC, submitted and read the following
prepared remarks: "What is a recreational concession stand? I looked up recreational
concession stand in the Webster's dictionary, and online, and I found nothing! This term was
conceived by the planning staff as part of their staff initiated text amendments to the Land
Development Code concerning marinas and boat repair. Staff comments state: The purpose of
this amendment is to clarify what constitutes a marina and identify uses that may be permitted as
part of a marina. This is being done as a result of a staff interpretation that a restaurant could
be an accessory use to a marina. On December 16, 2010, based on the staff interpretation, the
board of adjustment approved a special use permit request that included additional piers and a
k,
restaurant for Stutts Marina on Stutts Road in Mooresville. The decision was appealed to
Superior Court based on the fact that restaurants were not allowed in the RR zoning district.
The judge overturned the decision by the board, stating that restaurants were not allowed in the
RR district and were not an accessory use as defined in our ordinance. After the ruling, which
was filed on March 20, 2012, the Planning staff began reviewing the marina regulations to see
how we could improve upon the definition of a marina. Mr. Todd stated that the amendment
would specify the definitionluse of a marina and recreational concession stand. The board was
concerned that alcohol sales would increase and cause greater danger. So evidently alcohol is a
big part of the recreational concession stand. Of course, Stutts already has an on premise
alcohol permit, but it seems no one on the board was aware of it. Here is a copy of that license.
(Copy is included in the March 5 agenda packet.) So how did the staff improve upon the definition of a
marina? They added: `recreational concession stand, a place that can prepare and serve food'
to the definition of a marina. A place that can prepare and serve food is a restaurant. A
restaurant is not allowed in the RR zone. Alcohol consumption on premises is also not allowed
in the RR zone. Why would the Planning Board go against the Iredell County Zoning and try to
place restaurant/bars in resort residential? Zoning restrictions exist to protect homeowners like
us from these high density commercial ventures. What kind of permits would be necessary for a
recreational concession stand? I would bet they would be similar to a restaurant. Why, because
it's a place that prepares food to sell to other people for consumption. The health department,
fire department, and all the other agencies involved in the operation (Y'a restaurant would need
to oversee the recreational concession stand. So picture this: The County, which prohibits
restaurants/bars in the RR zone, would have to issue permits to a restaurant/bar in an RR zone.
A recreational concession stand is another word for restaurantlbar--that is clear. The Superior
Court said no restaurants in the RR zone. That seems very clear. Does the term recreational
concession stand improve on the definition of a marina, or does it defy the Superior Court ruling
and the zoning laws of Iredell County?"
Commissioner Griffith asked if convenience stores were allowed in RR districts.
Raczkowski said they were not allowed.
Griffith asked if a convenience store was located at the Stutts Marina.
Todd said some convenience type items were sold, but mostly, the goods were fish and
tackle related.
Robertson said he primarily thought of soft drinks and chips when someone mentioned a
concession stand.
Griffith said the items might be similar to those seen at a Little League ball field.
Robertson said permits would be needed if hot dogs were cooked at the concession stand.
He mentioned that Stutts had no capacity for on-site wastewater to handle the cooking.
Raczkowski said that if the text amendments were approved, it didn't mean the Stunts
marina, or any marina, could open a recreational concession stand tomorrow. He said there were
many approvals that would be needed, with one being from the health department, and another
from the board of adjustment. Raczkowski said the board of adjustment would review the size
of the property and its relationship with the neighborhood.
Commissioner Boone said one concern he knew about was the possibility of a bar in the
zones and the associated problems, such as unruly conduct and noise. He asked if the concession
stand definition could be amended to say that on -premise alcohol sales would not be allowed.
Raczkowski said it was his understanding that a blanket stipulation of this type (no
consumption of alcohol on site) could not be included in a definition for a particular use. He said
this was controlled through the state level by the ABC licensing process. Raczkowski said also,
he didn't feel that alcohol consumption was viewed as a use.
Boone said there were on -premises and off -premises permits.
Raczkowski said correct.
6
Chairman Johnson said it appeared the staff was trying to give marina owners an
opportunity to engage in other types of business, such as concession stands, restaurants, or
whatever, but the marina itself was the primary destination.
Todd said this was correct, and it would apply across the board. He said these were
ancillary uses, but based on the court case, the staff felt clarity was needed, especially with the
terms ancillary and accessory. Todd said, "That was the intent of trying to list a few things
specifically."
County Manager Ron Smith pointed out that since the definition had been "tightened up,"
the county might be subject to several cases of non -conforming uses. He said if the definition
remained "tight," and a business wanted to expand, there could be some difficulties.
Penny Kerhoulis, 294 Shoreline Loop, Mooresville, NC, said that in regards to
concession stands, she had read they were never open 24/7, and they were always linked to an
event. Mrs. Kerhoulis asked: "If a restaurant/bar is not allowed in an RR district, and if alcohol
consumption is not allowed in RR districts, how can they (concession stands) be allowed in RR
districts?"
Commissioner Robertson said marinas sold items, and they engaged in commerce. He
said the county was trying to clarify the issue. Robertson said that when a person looked at all of
the marinas in the county, Struts was probably the least developed. He said that due to the lack
of sewer, there would be no restaurant option for the Stutts marina.
Mrs. Kerhoulis asked why alcohol was allowed in an RR district. She said, "Why is
alcohol allowed when it doesn't have a check mark?"
Raczkowski said, "On the restaurant/bar portion, yes, it might be indicated that it is not
allowed, but this is not a restaurant and bar. We are dealing with a marina which is the primary
use of the property. Again, through the special use process, a person might be able to have a
recreational concession stand."
Commissioner Griffith said it appeared Mrs. Kerhoulis was concerned that alcohol was
already being sold on the property.
Todd said the ABC licensing board asked the planning staff if the use was permitted for
the zoning. He said for a marina, the staff would look to see if this type use was permitted in the
RR district. Todd said the staff would answer, yes, on the ABC form. He said the ABC board
was actually the agency approving the alcohol sales. Todd said the planning department was
only approving the underlying use.
Johnson said the ABC board was merely asking the planning department if the designated
use of the property was in compliance with the ordinance. He said if the applicant desired to sell
alcohol that was an issue for the ABC board.
Todd said correct.
Griffith mentioned that if the amendments did not occur, the marina would continue to
operate as it does now.
Raczkowski said correct.
Johnson referred to Mr. DeYoung's suggestion about no food preparation.
Robertson said DeYoung had requested no preparation of food inside the structure.
Johnson said that if the board disallowed food preparation in a structure, and later an
applicant wanted to have this capability, the individual would need a special use permit.
VA
Raczkowski said this could be amended, but a recreational concession stand might be at a
concert, or on school grounds where the concessionaires wanted to boil hot dogs in accordance
with health department rules. He said on-site food would be something of this nature.
Griffith said if the county was too constraining in the definition of a concession stand that
many groups would be adversely affected, such as Little League groups. She said the text
amendments would not fix or change the problems that residents were experiencing near the
Stutts marina.
No one else desired to speak, and Chairman Johnson declared the public hearing
adjourned.
OTION by Commissioner Griffith to approve the marinas and boat repair text
amendment.
VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0.
Solar Farms
EXPLANATION OF THE REQUEST
The following staff -initiated text amendment to the Land Development Code is being presented
for approval. Text in red and underlined is new text to be added.
STAFF COMMENTS
In the past couple of years, the Planning office has received several inquiries regarding the
development of solar power generation facilities or solar farms. This use has also been the topic
of a lot of talk and questions in the Planning community. The addition of this regulation in the
code also works towards achieving sustainability efforts that the County is trying to initiate. The
staff developed this amendment using sources such as the Renewable Energy Task Force in Kent
County, Maryland, the "Municipal Guide to Planning for and Regulating Alternative Energy
Systems" from Lancaster County Planning Commission, and other jurisdictions throughout the
State. One regulation was intentionally left out was screening requirements. This was done
because developments in the M-1 and M-2 zoning districts are automatically required to provide
screening from adjoining residentially zoned properties. Also, in the AC and RA districts,
screening can be added as a condition as deemed necessary by the Board of Adjustment.
Based on the research, the staff is proposing the following amendments to the Land
Development Code.
The Planning Board voted 6-0 to recommend approval of the amendment on December 5,
2012.
PROPOSED TEXT AMENDMENT
R65 Solar Farms
A. Solar collection devices shall be designed and located to avoid glare or reflection onto
adjacent properties and adjacent roadways and shall not interfere with traffic or create a
safety hazard.
B. Solar farms shall not be located within an airport primary approach zone as described in
Section 4.6.1.
C. Solar devices within a solar farm must be enclosed by a fence at least six (6) feet in height
and must have clearly visible warning signage concerning voltage.
D. An emergency shut-off mechanism is required and notice of its location should be submitted
to Iredell County Emergency Management. The mechanism shall be clearly identified and
unobstructed and shall be noted clearly on the site plan.
E. No business signs, billboards, or other advertising shall be installed on a solar device.
F. The property owner shall have six (6) months to complete decommissioning of the solar
facility if no electricity is generated for a continuous period of twelve (12) months. A project
is properly decommissioned when all structures and equipment are removed and the site is
re -vegetated.
8
Applicant must submit decommissioning plans that describe the anticipated life of the solar
project, the party responsible for decommissioning, the estimated decommissioning costs in
current dollars, and the method for ensuring that funds will be available for decommissioning
and restoration.
G. The applicant shall be required to provide written documentation stating that the facility is in
compliance with all applicable Federal and State regulations.
H. Setbacks
1. A solar device within a solar farm may not be closer than 500 feet to any existing
residential dwelling, excluding any dwellings on the same parcel of land as the device.
2. Solar collection devices must beset back fifty (50) feet from any property line.
I. Solar collection devices attached to rooftops or buildings are exempt from requirements C
and H above.
J. This section does not pertain to solar devices generating energy solely for on-site use.
Section 16.4 Definitions
Solar Farm. An array of solar collection devices to generate energy for off-site use.
Section 2.21.5 Public works Facilities, Utilities, & Infrastructure Uses
USES
JACI
RAI
RURI
RR R20
R121
R81
110 1011 NB1
HB
GB
Ml
M21
R
Solar farm
I S
S
R
R
1 65
Commissioner Robertson asked about Section 16.4. He said that if one electron was sent
off-site it was sent for off-site use.
Planning, Development and Transportation Director Joey Raczkowski said the word
"predominately" might add clarify to the sentence.
Robertson asked if the language was similar to what was being used in Catawba County
and Shelby, NC.
Todd said it was similar.
No one else desired to speak, and Chairman Johnson adjourned the hearing.
MOTIO by Vice Chairman Norman to approve the amendments but to add the word
"predominately" in Section 16.4 Definitions as follows:
Solar Farm. An array of solar collection devices to generate energy for predominately off-site use.
VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0.
ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
Request from the Iredell Statesville School System for Approval of Budget
Amendment #24 to Accept and Appropriate Funds in Conjunction with an Application for
NC Education Lottery Funds for (1) West Iredell High School Student Restrooms &
Concession Area, along with a Storage Building Project, and (2) a Career Academy &
Technical School Digital Production Classroom Upfit: Dr. Kenny Miller, with the Iredell-
Statesville Schools, said $267,397.29 had been spent for public restrooms, a concession area, and
a storage building for West Iredell High School. Additionally, he said a digital media project
costing $155,646.84 had been completed for the Career Tech School in Troutman. Miller said a
reimbursement from the State (NC Education Lottery Funds) was now being requested.
MOTIO by Vice Chairman Norman to approve Budget Amendment #24 for the
acceptance and appropriation of the lottery proceeds for the referenced projects.
VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0.
9
Request from the Mooresville Graded School District for Approval of an
Application for Public School Building Capital Fund Proceeds: Finance Director
Susan Blumenstein said the Mooresville Graded School District planned to request the release of
$915,922 from the North Carolina Public School Building Capital Fund (ADM fund balance).
She said the district would reimburse itself for school technology costs, and pay $915,922 to
Iredell County to support debt service on Certificates of Participation. Blumenstein said the
amount was included as revenue in the county's current year's budget, but the application was
requesting Public School Building Capital Funds (ADM) instead of lottery proceeds. She said
$1,254,863 was available, and the Mooresville Board of Education had approved the request.
Blumenstein said the funds needed to be used due to the possibility the General Assembly might
confiscate the funding from the State Treasurer.
OTIO by Vice Chairman Norman to approve the Public School Building Capital
Fund application for the Mooresville Graded School District.
VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0.
Request from the Finance Department for Approval of Budget Amendment #25 for
the Workers Compensation Self -Insurance Fund: Finance Director Blumenstein said
"exorbitant" costs had occurred in the workers comp self-insurance fund. She said the claims
this year had been more than twice the five-year average, but the fund balance was sufficient to
cover the needed amount. Blumenstein requested $450,000. She said the county was self
funded, and this had saved over $4 million since 2004-05.
Commissioner Boone asked the reasons for the increase.
Blumenstein said there were three large claims (one occurred in 2010; one in 2011; and
the other in January 2012).
OTION by Commissioner Griffith to approve Budget Amendment #25 for the Workers
Compensation Self -Insurance Fund.
VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0.
To appropriate funds to be received from Lottery proceeds for Iredell-Statesville Schools
project at West Iredell High School and Career Academy - Digital Production Classroom Upfit
BA#24
BA#25
3/5/2013
Account#
Current Chane Amended
104700 457101
Lottery Proceeds - Iredell-Statesville
(663,360)
(423,045)
(1,086,405)
105700 560004
Iredell-Statesville - Lottery Projects
937,580
423,045
1,360,625
Request from the Mooresville Graded School District for Approval of an
Application for Public School Building Capital Fund Proceeds: Finance Director
Susan Blumenstein said the Mooresville Graded School District planned to request the release of
$915,922 from the North Carolina Public School Building Capital Fund (ADM fund balance).
She said the district would reimburse itself for school technology costs, and pay $915,922 to
Iredell County to support debt service on Certificates of Participation. Blumenstein said the
amount was included as revenue in the county's current year's budget, but the application was
requesting Public School Building Capital Funds (ADM) instead of lottery proceeds. She said
$1,254,863 was available, and the Mooresville Board of Education had approved the request.
Blumenstein said the funds needed to be used due to the possibility the General Assembly might
confiscate the funding from the State Treasurer.
OTIO by Vice Chairman Norman to approve the Public School Building Capital
Fund application for the Mooresville Graded School District.
VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0.
Request from the Finance Department for Approval of Budget Amendment #25 for
the Workers Compensation Self -Insurance Fund: Finance Director Blumenstein said
"exorbitant" costs had occurred in the workers comp self-insurance fund. She said the claims
this year had been more than twice the five-year average, but the fund balance was sufficient to
cover the needed amount. Blumenstein requested $450,000. She said the county was self
funded, and this had saved over $4 million since 2004-05.
Commissioner Boone asked the reasons for the increase.
Blumenstein said there were three large claims (one occurred in 2010; one in 2011; and
the other in January 2012).
OTION by Commissioner Griffith to approve Budget Amendment #25 for the Workers
Compensation Self -Insurance Fund.
VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0.
Request for the Approval of a Renewal Agreement to Continue Renting Cooperative
Extension Building Office Space to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) -
Farm Service Agency: Finance Director Blumenstein said space had been rented to the
Department of Agriculture/Farm Service Agency since October 1, 2005. She said the USDA
desired to renew the lease through July 31, 2015, with annual rent payments of $27,074.
Blumenstein said the cost was less than market value, but the only agencies housed at the
10
To appropriate additional fund balance from the Workers Compensation Self -Insurance Fund to
cover estimated claims costs in excess of the amount budgeted for FY 2013.
BA#25
3/5/2013
Account #
Current Chane
Amended
684880 4995.00
Appropriated Fund Balance
(62,135)
(415,000)
(477,135)
685415 5462.00
Workers Compensation Claims
328,190
176,000
504,190
685415 5463.00
Workers Compensation Settlements
125,000
239,000
364,000
Request for the Approval of a Renewal Agreement to Continue Renting Cooperative
Extension Building Office Space to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) -
Farm Service Agency: Finance Director Blumenstein said space had been rented to the
Department of Agriculture/Farm Service Agency since October 1, 2005. She said the USDA
desired to renew the lease through July 31, 2015, with annual rent payments of $27,074.
Blumenstein said the cost was less than market value, but the only agencies housed at the
10
Agricultural Resource Center were those of benefit to local farmers such as cooperative
extension, forestry, or soil and water conservation.
Commissioner Boone asked if the county could negotiate for a higher rate.
Blumenstein said she didn't think so.
OTION by Commissioner Robertson to approve the renewal agreement with the
USDA for the Farm Service Agency.
VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0.
Request for the Declaration of Surplus Vehicles and Authorization for the County
Purchasing & Contracts Manager to Conduct an Online Auction, Sale, or Other Best
Disposal Method Allowable by the NC General Statutes: Finance Director Blumenstein said
the purchasing agent recommended that 18 vehicles be declared surplus. She said the purchasing
agent also desired permission to auction the vehicles online at GovDeals, or through the method
most beneficial to the county. Blumenstein said Vehicle Services Director John Williams was in
attendance to answer questions regarding the vehicles. She said due to accidents, two of the
vehicles were declared total losses, and several of the EMS vehicles had been remounted leaving
only the cabs --no boxes.
Commissioner Robertson asked about the low mileage on some of the vehicles.
Vehicle Services Director John Williams said these particular vehicles had paint
problems. He said that in the next batch of surplus vehicles, probably all of them would have
over 150,000 miles.
OT10N by Vice Chairman Norman to approve the resolution to declare the vehicles
surplus and to authorize the purchasing agent to sell the vehicles as requested.
VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0.
2012 Surplus Vehicle List
NOTE: NUMBERS 3, 4, 5, 16, 17, 18 & ARE EMS REMOUNTS. THEY ARE CAB ONLY; NO BOX.
MAKE/
TURN IN
YEAR
MODEL
COLOR
VIN
MILEAGE
DEPT
COND
TAG
DATE
IC#
DK.
1
2001
GMC/G1500
BLUE
IGTGG25RXIII13320
208842
SHERIFF
POOR
39557-T
5/17/2012
14657
CODE
2
2000
FORD/F150
WHITE
1FTRF17W2YNA97691
76551
ENT.
LOSS
18875-S
10/24/2012
10544
3
2001
FORD/E350
WHITE
IFDXE45F71HB33616
207778
EMS
POOR
35272-S
6/6/2012
11035
4
2001
FORD/E350
WHITE
1FDXE45F71HA88337
220813
EMS
POOR
33826-S
8/9/2012
11029
5
2000
FORD/E350
WHITE
IFDXP45F3YHB96836
234693
EMS
POOR
28354-S
6/6/2012
10871
6
2004
FORD/CVV
WHITE
2FAHP7 I W64X 151481
144529
SHERIFF
POOR
55727-S
10/24/2012
11529
7
2004
FORD/C\V
WHITE
2FAFP71W74X106217
195952
SHERIFF
POOR
51378-S
10/24/2012
11389
PXA-
8
2002
FORD/C\V
GOLD
2FAFP71 W 82X 144603
164603
SHERIFF
POOR
2094
5/7/2012
11082
W PT -
9
2004
FORD/C\V
WHITE
2FAHP7 I W44X 151494
154836
SHERIFF
POOR
3931
5/7/2012
11531
10
2005
FORD/C\V
WHITE
2FAHP71W75X154908
139197
SHERIFF
POOR
65278-S
10/24/2012
11738
11
2004
FORD/CVV
WHITE
2FAFP7 I W04X 106219
169853
SHERIFF
POOR
51379-S
10/24/2012
11388
12
2004
FORD/C\V
WHITE
2FAHP71W94X15149I
125545
SHERIFF
POOR
55728-S
10/24/2012
11528
13
2002
FORD/C\V
WHITE
2FAFP7 I W42X 142315
165003
SHERIFF
POOR
37628-S
10/24/2012
11069
14
2004
FORD/E450
WHITE
1FDXE45P44HA88616
EMS
60936-S
9/12/2012
11596
15
2005
FORD/E450
WHITE
1FDXF45P25HA14760
EMS
68127-S
10/30/2012
11766
16
2005
FORD/E450
WHITE
IFDXE45P45HA14761
EMS
68128-S
9/12/2012
11767
SOLID
17
1993
JEEP/CHER
GOLD
IJ4FJ68S9PL548937
WASTE
POOR
24039-R
1/4/2013
8673
18
1979
FORD/
WHITE
R902VEA6686
FACILITY
85620-R
11/5/2012
9787
NOTE: NUMBERS 3, 4, 5, 16, 17, 18 & ARE EMS REMOUNTS. THEY ARE CAB ONLY; NO BOX.
Resolution Authorizing the Disposition of
Certain County Owned Vehicles
WHEREAS, the County of Iredell has possession of an inventory of vehicles that are surplus to
its needs and desires to dispose of same.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Commissioners of Iredell County that
Dean A. Lail, Purchasing & Contracts Manager, pursuant to the provisions of N.C.G.S. 160A-266, is
hereby authorized to dispose of the listed vehicles by on-line surplus auction through the GovDeals site or
other appropriate method allowed by the North Carolina General Statutes and most advantageous to the
County for cash or good check, and that said Purchasing & Contracts Manager is hereby authorized to
schedule, conduct and execute any actions required to convey title to this property.
Request from the Human Resources Department for Approval of Revisions to the
Iredell County Substance Abuse Policy: Human Resources Director Sandra Gregory said that
on December 18, 2012, the board reviewed changes to the Substance Abuse Policy and requested
additional research on some of the language. Gregory reviewed the following recommended
changes (shown in bold and grey lettering).
IREDELL COUNTY ALCOHOL AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE POLICY
SECTION 7. CONSEQUENCES OF A POSITIVE TEST RESULT
An applicant shall be denied employment with Iredell County if his/her drug test is positive.
Such an applicant may be considered for future employment after three (3) years.
In its effort to provide a safe and healthy work environment and protect the County from
economic losses that can occur due to drug abuse, the use of illegal Controlled Substances
will not be tolerated by the County. An employee who has a positive drug test result that
indicates the use of an illegal, Controlled Substance will be subject to termination.
Except as otherwise provided in this policy, an employee who has a positive drug test result that
indicates misuse of a legal or prescribed Controlled Substance will be subject to disciplinary
action up to and including dismissal. When making recommendations for disciplinary action,
Supervisors and Department Heads, in conjunction with the HR Director, should consider
factors which include:
(a) The employee's work history;
(b) Job assignment;
(c) Length of service;
(d) Current job performance;
(e) Existence of past disciplinary actions.
(f) The nature of the substance abused.
An employee who voluntarily, without reasonable suspicion of a supervisor, who is permitted to
continue employment after positive test results, or prior to being notified of being selected as a
random drug testing recipient identifies him/herself as a drug user may be referred to EAP and
subject to provisions of this policy. Employee may also participate in the Last Chance
Assistance Program as outlined in section 15 of this policy. An employee permitted to continue
employment and receive assistance under the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and/or the
Last Chance Assistance Program will be required to utilize approved compensatory time, sick
time, annual leave, or leave without pay respectively for all time away from work after the initial
EAP assessment/appointment. (See sections 14 & 15 for detailed information on each program
offered).
Any employee who questions the results of a required drug test under this policy may request
that the split sample be tested. This shall be performed in accordance with the North Carolina
Controlled Substance Examination Regulations Act, Chapter 95, Article 20 of the North Carolina
General Statutes. The method of collecting, storing, and testing the split sample will be
consistent with the procedures set forth in 49 CFR Part 40, as amended.
12
SECTION 10. PROHIBITED SUBSTANCES
When drug screening is required under the provisions of this program, a test will be conducted to
detect the presence of a controlled substance as defined in North Carolina General Statute 90-
87(5) or metabolite thereof.
A legally prescribed drug means that an individual has a prescription or other written approval
from a physician for the use of that drug in the course of medical treatment. Prescription must
include the patient's name, the name of the substance, quantity/amount to be taken, and the
period of authorization. Any employee found to have used prescription drugs contrary to the
medical prescription will be subject to the terms and conditions of this program.
The use of any substance, which carries a warning label that indicates mental functioning, motor
skills, or judgment may be adversely affected, should be reported to the Department Head. This
information must be treated as private medical information. Employee should obtain a written
release from the attending physician releasing the person to perform their job duties any time
they obtain a performance -altering prescription.
Department Heads overseeing employees in safety -sensitive positions, as defined in Section
9 of this policy, may require these employees to report the use of any substance, which is
performance -altering, where the employee's position affects public safety. Furthermore,
the Department Head may require an employee in a safety -sensitive position to obtain a
release from the attending physician releasing the person to perform their job duties at any
time they obtain a performance -altering prescription.
SECTION 12. APPLICANT TESTING
All applicants for employment with Iredell County are subject to the testing provisions of this
program. Drug testing of applicants will be done as part of a post -offer requirement. The Human
Resources Department will normally schedule drug testing for only the applicant tentatively
selected for employment. Applicants scheduled for a drug test will be asked to sign a consent
form authorizing a drug test and permitting release of the test results to County officials with a
need to know. A job applicant who refuses to consent to a drug test will be denied employment
with Iredell County.
Employees who are transferred or promoted to a safety -sensitive position will be required
to pass a pre -placement drug test.
(End of Policy)
Mrs. Gregory said that at the December 18 board meeting, a discussion occurred about
having a no tolerance policy for employees who tested positive for the use of illegal drugs and
the misuse of legal drugs. She said, "Another point of discussion by the board was to potentially
break this up into two sections, with one being no tolerance for the use of illegal drugs, and the
other section allowing some discretion for the misuse of legal drugs, or prescribed medications.
In response to that, you have two choices. We can have the no tolerance policy and say any tests
that are positive for any illegal drug use, or misuse, is an automatic termination. There is some
caution needed; however, because we could run into some ADA violations as relating to
prescription medications, if you use the no tolerance policy. The alternative method that was
added would be to use a no tolerance policy for the use of illegal drugs and allowing discretion
for those that might misuse prescribed medication."
Commissioner Robertson asked if the drug test could tell the difference between heroin
and hydrocodone.
Gregory said that if anything came back positive, it would go to the medical review
officer. She said the medical review officer would request the employee to provide a physician's
prescription. Gregory said the medical review officer would make the determination about the
outcome.
Continuing, Gregory said, "If the board does elect that method --no tolerance for the
illegal use of drugs and discretion for prescribed drugs --I would Like to include that when the
department head is considering disciplinary action they consult with me so I can ensure we are
13
not laying the groundwork for an ADA charge. At the last meeting, a question was asked if
Section 10 — Prohibited Substances was a violation of HIPAA, and it is not. One thing I would
like to reiterate to the board is that we do have the right to require physicians' medical releases
for employees who serve in safety positions. I would recommend that we change this in order to
provide some added protection as the department heads try to administer the policy in requiring
those in safety positions to notify us if they are taking any mind altering medications. Our policy
currently says that they should report any mind altering or performance medications. In Section
12 -Applicant Testing, the policy currently states that employees transferred or promoted to
safety sensitive positions should be required to pass a pre -placement drug test. I had initially
recommended for this to be removed because it is a violation of the employees' Fourth
Amendment Rights. Mr. Robertson had requested that we keep this in the policy. I think the
ultimate question is: `Where does the liability risk lieT Does the board want to risk violating
the employees' Fourth Amendment Rights versus something happening, and it becoming a huge
liability issue, especially if drug issues are found? I think it is ultimately the question as to the
risk the board wants to take. Mr. Pope and I had some conversations, and he recommends that it
remain in the policy. He feels it is the less risky of the two."
Commissioner Griffith asked, "What would happen under our policy, if an employee
applied for a safety -sensitive position, but failed the drug test? Would the employee lose their
currentjob?"
Gregory said a recommendation would be to not terminate, or promote, the employee.
She said situations, such as these, might need legal consultation.
Griffith asked if the employee hadn't violated the policy if they tested positive.
Gregory said it depended upon what position they were originally in and what they were
being promoted to. She said that if a person working in a non -safety position was trying for a
safety -sensitive job, and he or she tested positive, the county might be violating his or her rights
if the employee was not allowed to remain in the non -safety position. Gregory added, however,
legal counsel might be requested.
Commissioner Robertson asked why the following language couldn't be added to the
policy: "and will be subject to the consequences of the county, policy, if they test positive."
Attorney Pope said the argument is that they do not have to apply --it is voluntary on their
part. He said, "The other argument we've been concerned about is that public employees, unlike
common law employees, have what's called a property right in their job. This entitles them to a
due process hearing before they can be terminated. They have a measure of Constitutional
protection greater than the rest of us. This is what the experts have been telling us. It would
likely be found by the courts that we had violated their Fourth Amendment Rights if we
terminated them. Even though we had warned them upfront, and it was voluntary on their part to
apply for the job. Don't ask me to defend that position or the logic. It defies my understanding
of logic, but it's what we have been advised."
Patrick Flanagan, the county's labor attorney, said he agreed with Attorney Pope's
statements. Flanagan said, "It does come down to balancing the liability. Normally, you would
have to have probable cause, or they would have to be in safety -sensitive position to require the
drug testing. I hear what you are saying, but it's a decision you will have to make. Balancing
whether or not you potentially are violating Fourth Amendment Rights by terminating them
essentially for testing positive on the drug test, or letting them go back to that position."
Commissioner Robertson said he was willing to take the risk. He said, "I would rather go
down fighting on that side of the equation. I say let the coke addict get their attorney, and we'll
see them in court." Robertson added that many people would like to have a county job,
especially with its pension plan, which had just about been abolished in the private sector.
Human Resources Director Gregory said the question was on what the county wanted to
take in regards to the risk.
Attorney Pope agreed.
14
Chairman Johnson asked the odds of winning a court case.
Pope said, "It depends a lot on the draw of the judge and other things. Lawyers like to
hear clients say, `It's the principle of the matter."'
Chairman Johnson asked if the county was likely to lose.
Pope said, "I think there's better than a fifty -percent chance we would lose, but not
significantly greater. If we do a good job of warning people upfront in bold print, such as: If
you apply for this job and you flunk the test, you will lose the job you've got now. In my
mind, this is a significant factor that should substantially improve our chances of prevailing.
Whether it will or not, I'm not sure."
Commissioner Boone asked the likelihood of someone applying for the position while
using drugs.
Commissioner Robertson said there were two problems whenever a county employee was
using that kind of drug. He said, "Number one: they could be under the influence while at
work, and number two: the person was showing a tremendous lack of good judgment. In a
period of high unemployment, why would the county keep the person employed when there are
people who are demonstrating good judgment wanting ajob?"
Attorney Flanagan said the language, if stated upfront, would be strengthened, if the
employees were told that if they failed a test they might be subject to disciplinary action in
accordance with the personnel policy.
Commissioner Robertson read the policy as follows: Employees who are transferred or
promoted to a safety sensitive position will be required to pass a pre -placement drug test. He
asked about adding the following language at the end of the sentence: "and will be subject to the
county policy if they fail or test positive." He said Attorney Pope could fine-tune the language
as needed.
Griffith asked if the county's case might be strengthened if the language was in bold.
Pope said, "To some extent it will be fact specific. Bad facts make bad laws sometimes.
It may depend upon the recentness of the drug, the amount of drug, and the type of drug that was
taken. Whether it was double-blind tested or a single incident which could have been a false
positive --I think the facts will be significant in the outcome."
Gregory said the county could present the information on the position's advertisement for
internal job postings. She said employees would then be aware of the stipulation.
Chairman Johnson said he agreed with Commissioner Boone. He said, "In all likelihood,
if they have to take a drug test they probably will not apply. If you do it on the front end, it will
probably insulate you should litigation occur. I think if you advise them on the front end, you've
further diminished the possibility that they may apply for the position. If this is stated on the
front end, I would concur with Commissioner Robertson. Where I may differ with
Mr. Robertson; however, is that I agree with Mrs. Gregory in making a distinction between
illegal and legal drugs."
Commissioner Robertson said he had no problems in being more tolerant on legal or
prescription medication misuse.
Commissioner Boone said, "I agree with Mr. Johnson about the distinction between legal
and illegal drugs. I can see a case where somebody's back might start hurting, which can be
extremely painful. They borrow some hydrocodone from a family member, and the next day
they are selected for a random drug test. We have to make a distinction between that situation
and people who are using illegal drugs."
Mrs. Gregory requested for the policy amendments to be effective May 1, 2013.
15
OTION by Commissioner Robertson to approve the Substance Abuse Policy Revisions
effective May 1, 2013, but to include the following wording in Section 12. Applicant Testing
(last sentence): "and will be subject to county policy if they test positive."
The entire sentence will now read as follows: Employees who are transferred or
promoted to a safety -sensitive position will be required to pass a pre -placement drug test and will
be subject to county policy if they test positive.
VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0.
Note: Commissioner Robertson said Mrs. Gregory and Attorney Pope would be given leeway in
writing the sentence.
Attorney Pope said the intent of the added wording would be that if an employee
"flunked the test, they were out of here."
Request for Approval of the February 15, 16, & 19, 2013 Minutes: OTION by
Commissioner Griffith to approve the minutes as presented.
VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0.
Request for Approval of Budget Amendment #27 for the Appropriation of Fund
Balance ($57,200) to General Governmental—Buildings/Building Improvements Associated
with the Purchase of Property at 321 Harrill Street, Statesville, NC, and the Demolition of a
Structure on the Site: County Manager Smith requested approval of Budget Amendment #27
for the purchase of property on Harrill Street and the demolishment of a house on the site.
OTION by Commissioner Robertson to approve Budget Amendment #27 for the
property purchase.
VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0.
BA#27
3/5/2013
104880 4995.00
105480 6010.00
Fund Balance Appropriated
New Jail $ 4,000,000
SICDC 337,500
321 Harrill St. 57.200
$ 4,394,700
To appropriate Fund Balance to General Governmental - Buildings & Building
Improvements for the purchase and demolition of 321 Harrill Street
General
Fund
Appropriated Fund Balance
Land & Land Improvements
(4,337,500) 1 (57,200) 1 (4,394,700)
32,000 1 57,200 1 89,200
Property 50,000
Title Fee 650
11Mral, 11Ir;
Survey 500
Other closing costs 100
2013 Taxes (est) 500
Demolition 5,000
Unknown 150
57
ANNOUNCEMENT OF VACANCIES OCCURRING ON BOARDS & COMMISSIONS
Centralina Economic Development Commission Board of Directors (1 announcement)
16
APPOINTMENTS TO BOARDS AND
Animal Grievance Committee (I appointment): Commissioner Boone nominated
D.J. Loyd -Fuller.
No other nominations were submitted, and Chairman Johnson made a motion to appoint
Loyd -Fuller by acclamation.
VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0.
Adult Care Home
were submitted, and Chairman Johnson made a
VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0.
Committee (1 appointment): No nominations
otion to postpone this appointment.
REMINDER LIST
Nursing Home Advisory Committee: OTION by Chairman Johnson to appoint
Addie Walker by acclamation.
VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Schools and Firearms: Commissioner Boone said the board previously passed a
resolution about permitting concealed handgun permit holders to carry firearms in schools. He
said, "There have been two bills introduced in the General Assembly since that time, and they
both apply to private schools. Senate Bill 146 would allow persons who have concealed
handgun permits and who undergo additional training to carry firearms in private schools if the
authorities in charge of the schools give permission. It also clarifies something that I've
wondered about. There are cases where private or parochial schools are in a church building,
and it would exempt people just attending church services, or church -related services, from all of
the restrictions of firearms in schools. Those churches would be treated as any other church.
One of the co-sponsors of this bill is Senator Andrew Brock who represents part of Iredell
County. A bill has been introduced in the House that would really be a little broader in its
application. Basically, it would allow any permit holder to carry firearms in a private school
with permission of the school authorities. This is a local bill that applies to only Forsyth County,
but of course, other counties could be added. Ijust wanted to inform the board about these bills.
They will be considered by the General Assembly, and both are in a committee at the current
time.
COUNTY MANAGER'S REPORT: County Manager Smith distributed information
on the following two items, but no formal action was requested.
1. Request from Centralina Council of Governments for Nominees to the Connect Our
Future Initiative/Reality Check 2050: A meeting will be held on June 4, 2013, and Centralina is
requesting nominees from member counties to participate. Iredell County does not have to
participate, but there are slots for 24 people. Names of nominees need to be submitted by
March 11, 2013.
2. Information from the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners (NCACC) in
Regards to General Assembly Legislation: The NCACC has requested commissioners across the
state to meet with their General Assembly representatives to advocate on behalf of the
association's legislative goals.
CLOSED SESSION: Pursuant to Property Acquisition — G.S. 143-318.11 (a) (5) and
Attorney -Client — G.S. 143-318.11 (a) (3), Chairman Johnson at 8:45 PM, made a motion to
enter into closed session.
(RETURN TO OPEN SESSION AT 9:05 PM)
17
ADJOURNMENT: There being no further business to conduct, Chairman Johnson
made a otion to adjourn the meeting. (NEXT MEETING: Tuesday, March 19, 2013, 7:00
PM, in the Iredell County Government Center, 200 South Center Street, Statesville, NC.)
VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0.
Approval:
18
Clerk to the Board