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HomeMy WebLinkAboutAugust 5 2014 Regular MinutesAugust 5, 2014 IREDELL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MINUTES August 5, 2014 The Iredell County Board of Commissioners met Tuesday, August 5, 2014, 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 Ken Robertson Renee Griffith Gene Houpe Staff present: County Manager Ron Smith, County Attorney Bill Pope, Deputy County Manager Beth Dirks, Finance Director Susan Robertson, Fire and Emergency Services Coordinator David Saleeby, Planning Director Matthew Todd, Social Services Director Yvette Smith, Fire Marshal Garland Cloer, Tax Collector Bill Furches, Executive Assistant Jill Malo and Clerk to the Board Retha Gaither. CALL TO ORDER by Chairman Steve Johnson INVOCATION by Commissioner Gene Houpe PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE led by Chairman Johnson ADJUSTMENTS OF THE AGENDA: County Manager Ron Smith had the following adjustments to the agenda: Delete: Memo #5 — Public Hearing for Project HIL Addition: Announcement of Vacancy for the Mitchell Community College Board of Trustees OTIO by Commissioner Renee Griffith to adopt the agenda as amended. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 PRESENTATION OF SPECIAL RECOGNITIONS & AWARDS (None) APPOINTMENTS BEFORE THE BOARD (None) PUBLIC HEARINGS Chairman Steve Johnson declared the meeting in a Public Hearing. August 5, 2014 Request from the Planning Department to Approve a Request by Thomas B. Deane with Faith Road Enterprises to Consider a Release of Zoning and Subdivision Jurisdiction to the Town of Mooresville: Planning Director Matthew Todd stated this request falls into Iredell County's jurisdiction at the present time. There is a proposed subdivision and the applicants are requesting the nine acre piece be released into the Town of Mooresville's zoning and subdivision jurisdiction. The release will create five additional lots. The land use plan calls for this area to be medium density residential. Jonathan Carter, representative of WSP, came forward to answer questions if needed. James Roark asked the total number of houses that were planned. Carter said approximately 380. Roark said the City has not made any attempts to improve the land or roads with the property they have already in this area. He was curious why they want to take in more when the other property has not been developed. There being no other comments from the public, Chairman Johnson closed the public hearing. OTION by Commissioner Ken Robertson to approve the request for a release of zoning and subdivision jurisdiction to the Town of Mooresville by Faith Road Enterprises, LLC. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 Ila 40140d'7rri14►i1F147FI[6J*9 Planning Division PLANNING STAFF REPORT Release of Zoning & Subdivision Jurisdiction Staff Project Contact: Rebecca Harper EXPLANATION OF THE REQUEST Thomas B. Deane, with Faith Road Enterprises, LLC, has requested release of the zoning and subdivision jurisdiction of 9.79 acres to the Town of Mooresville. The applicant is proposing to combine the tract with 199 acres currently in the Town of Mooresville's Jurisdiction for a two -lots -per -acre residential development (see the attached proposed develop map). OWNER/APPLICANT OWNER: Faith Road Enterprises, LLC 16826 Green Dolphin Lane Cornelius, NC 28031 PROPERTY INFORMATION LOCATION: 132 Saddle Road; more specifically identified as PIN # 4656507443. 2 August 5, 2014 DIRECTIONS: Hwy 115 south, left on Mackwood Road, right Saddle Road, on right. SURROUNDING LAND USE: This property is surrounded by residential uses. SIZE: The property is 9.79 acres. EXISTING LAND USE: The tract to be released currently has two residences. ZONING HISTORY: This property has been zoned RA since county -wide zoning went into effect in 1990. 3 August 5, 2014 OTHER JURISDICTIONAL INFORMATION: This property is located inside Mooresville's short range USA boundary. On June 2, 2014, the Town of Mooresville Board of Commissioners agreed to provide utilities to this site. The Town Planning staff has submitted a letter of acknowledgement regarding the request and is in support of the request. This area is proposed for Neighborhood Residential Development in the Comprehensive Land Use Plan adopted by the Town of Mooresville. OTHER SITE CHARACTERISTICS: This property is located in the Catawba/Lake Norman Critical Area water supply watershed. IMPACTS ON LOCAL INFRASTRUCTURE AND/OR FACILITES TRAFFIC: The nearest location for NC DOT traffic counts is on Mackwood Road, near the intersection of Hwy 115. In 2012, the average number of vehicles per day on this section of Mackwood Road was 770. The capacity for this section of Mackwood Road is 11,000 vehicles per day SCHOOLS: This property is located outside of the Mooresville Graded School District. STAFF COMMENTS: From a Planning perspective, this request meets the criteria for release of zoning and subdivision jurisdiction. The release would only generate approximately 5 additional lots in the development based on allowed minimum lot sizes proposed and those allowed by the County. The Town Planning staff is in support of this request. The proposed use of the property fits into the future land use plans for the Town of Mooresville. The Planning staff recommends in favor of this request. Chairman Johnson declared the meeting into a Public Hearing. Request from Statesville Regional Development for Consideration of an Economic Development Incentive for Project Dill: Mike Smith, Statesville Regional Development, stated this company was founded in the early 60s and has been in business in Statesville for more than 5 years. This is an advanced metal fabrication operation. They currently employ 50 workers and the average wage is over $20 per hour. This request is based on the company's desire to expand their operations and add 30,000-50,000 square feet. The company will invest approximately $3.5 million over twelve months and create 15 new jobs which would bring the total jobs at this facility to 65. The incentive of $60,878 would be over a five year period. Chairman Johnson closed the public hearing. MOTION by Commissioner Gene Houpe to approve an economic incentive of $60,878 over a five year period, based on the company's investment of $3.5 million and contingent upon a contract being executed within 180 days. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 Chairman Johnson declared the meeting into a public hearing Request from Statesville Regional development for Consideration of an Economic Development Incentive for Project Porter: Mike Smith, Statesville Regional Development, stated this company began in 1914 and is a European based operation. It is in the aerospace sector. 4 August 5, 2014 This will be a $5 million investment in new capital equipment and building over a six month period with fifty new jobs over three years. The average wage would be $19 per hour along with paying 50% of health care benefits. They are reviewing an available site neat the Statesville Business Park. However, there is competition in upstate South Carolina and another neighboring community in the Charlotte region. The incentive requested is $84,711 over five years. Chairman Johnson closed the public hearing. MOTION by Commissioner Renee Griffith to approve an economic incentive of $84,711 over a five year period, based on the company's investment of $5 million and contingent upon a contract being executed within 180 days. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 Chairman Johnson declared the meeting into a public hearing. Request from Statesville Regional Development for Consideration of an Economic Development Incentive for Project BKR: Mike Smith, Statesville Regional Development, stated this company is currently in a neighboring county but would like to move to lredell County. They are in the motorsports sector. Smith said they are not actively encouraging companies to move across county lines and they are in contact with colleagues from the other county. They will be investing $3 million in new capital investment over a 36 month period which will create 35 new jobs. The average wage is over $20 per hour. They are viewing an existing building in Statesville. The incentive of $52,933 is over a five year period. Chairman Johnson closed the public hearing. MOTION by Vice Chairman to approve an economic incentive of $52,933 over a period of five years based on the company's investment of $3 million and contingent upon a contract being executed within 180 days. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 Chairman Johnson declared the meeting into a public hearing. Request from the Finance Department to Hear Comments Regarding the "Order Authorizing $151,500,000 School Bonds" and "Order Authorizing $12,000,000 Community College Bonds," Adoption of the Bond Orders, and Adoption of the Resolution Calling for a Bond Referendum: Finance Director Susan Robertson reviewed the time -line of the bond. On June 17, representatives from each public school unit and the community college presented, to the Board, resolutions requesting and calling for a GO Bond Referendum. Iredell-Statesville's resolution totaled $79.5 million, Mooresville Graded — $72 million and the community college — $12 million. The Board adopted a resolution making certain findings and instructing the Finance Director to file an application with the local government commission. On June 20 a notice of intent to apply to the local government commission for approval of a bond was published in the Statesville Record and Landmark. On June 30, the application was filed with the local government commission. On July 15, there was an introduction of an order authorizing school bonds of $151.5 million and a separate order authorizing community college bonds of $12 million. The introduction I August 5- 2014 was approved by the Board of Commissioners. A public hearing was scheduled to listen to comments on August 5. The Clerk to the Board published the orders in the Statesville Record and Landmark on July 18. Chairman Johnson read a list of names of individuals who had requested to speak. He explained that each individual would have five minutes to speak on the subject at hand. David Bradley, President of The Greater Statesville Chamber of Commerce, stated the Board of Directors have heartedly endorsed support of both bonds. They believe it is imperative now to build expectations for how the community will be in the future. He stated both school systems, and the college, are keys to economic sustainability. On behalf of the Board of the Statesville Chamber of Commerce, he requested the Board continue to agree to place this referendum on the ballot on November 4. Bill Balatow, of Statesville, thanked the Board for choosing to place the referendum on the ballot. He feels there is no greater duty or privilege, as a citizen, than to vote. He expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to vote on taxes, schools, etc. He feels it is the responsibility of adults to take care of children and he is in favor of this bond. James Hogan, of Statesville, stated it is a privilege as a citizen and tax payer to address the Board. He stated he came before the Board 14 months earlier to talk about an opportunity to help fund education. At that time jobs and teacher tenure were on the line. He feels everyone is here because it is the community's responsibility to ensure children have what is needed for a safe and exceptional education. He feels this is a chance to make a bold investment in the school and empower young people for the future. He is in support of this bond referendum and will do everything he can to excite, invigorate, and energize the community to support it as well. Pete Parisian, a parent of a middle school student who will be attending Mooresville High School next year, stated he moved his family to Iredell County about ten years ago. He stated they did extensive research about the school systems in the area. Mooresville Graded School District was noted as one of the best in the country. He said the school system, the leadership, and the instructional team have been great. However, he is disappointed with the physical decades old building of Mooresville High School. He explained that people are not allowed to vote in his former country but was so proud when he became a US citizen because of the privilege to vote. He is just reiterating the importance of putting this matter on the ballot for citizens to vote. Mac Herring, thanked the Board, as a Mooresville parent, Commissioner and on behalf of the Mooresville -South Iredell Chamber of Commerce, for allowing the issue to progress this far. He stated Iredell County is a very strong diverse county with two strong economies, two very different communities, one in Statesville and one in Mooresville -South Iredell. He said there are two distinct chambers and two different groups of economic development. He said the business community understands the importance of the quality of life. He feels Iredell County is truly blessed. Students with both school systems have a chance at a world-class education but now they need world-class facilities. His focus, as an elected official, is to make sure the infrastructure is there for continued success of the community and Iredell County. He urged the Board to continue the conversation and put this bond on the ballot. 6 August 5- 2014 RESOLUTION TO SUPPORT THE EDUCATIONAL BONDS IN SUPPORT OF NECESSARY INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENTS FOR THE IREDELL SCHOOL SYSTEM, THE MOORESVILLE GRADED SCHOOL DISTRICT AND MITCHELL COMMUNITY COLLEGE BY THE IREDELL COUNTY COMMISSION ON THE NOVEMBER 4, 2014 BALLOT. WHEREAS, the Mooresville -South Iredell Chamber of Commerce represents over 800 members including individuals, corporations and organizations; and WHEREAS, the purpose of the Mooresville -South Iredell Chamber of Commerce is the advancement of the civic, commercial and industrial growth of the Town of Mooresville and the South Iredell area; and WHEREAS, education is the foundation of personal fulfillment through gainful employment, prosperity and economic growth, and WHEREAS, the Iredell County Schools, the Mooresville Graded School District and Mitchell Community College serve Iredell County effectively and with distinction; and WHEREAS, the budgets of these critical institutions have been negatively impacted by budget reductions in the face of rising enrollments; and WHEREAS, the financial challenges faced by these institutions endanger the ability to fulfill their missions; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of the Mooresville -South Iredell Chamber of Commerce encourages all business citizens of Iredell County to support the school board referendum and help guarantee the continued economic successes of Iredell County. Adopted this the 23" of July, 2014: Howard Kosofsky, Chairman Kelly Collins expressed her appreciation to speak. She is an educator and parent at Cool Springs Elementary. She said there are many health and safety concerns at Cool Springs. All Kindergarten, second and fourth grade students are in the older buildings and/or mobile units which contribute to health issues and absences. Safety is a concern because of the open campus. The outside buildings can easily be entered by strangers. Students must go out in the elements to go to lunch. She expressed her support for the bond and urged the Board to leave it on the ballot to vote on in November. Lisa Gill, of Mooresville, stated how proud she is to live in Iredell County and feels she and her husband have chosen the best place to raise three children. Despite bottom of the barrel spending from the state, ISS and MGSD rank at the top of the list of 115 districts. She said The John Locke Foundation recently ranked both districts as number one in the state for return on investment. However, she is sadden by the numerous deteriorating facilities which present major education and safety concerns that must be addressed. She feels the school bond is a strategic investment in schools and children. There is also an irrefutable correlation between quality schools and economic development. Quality schools drive increased real estate prices, business expansions, attract new business, retail, restaurants, and improve the overall quality of life. She said the tax increase would amount to $1.59 per household per week. She quoted Dr. Seuss, `Sometime the questions are complicated and the answers are simple.' She reiterated to allow the citizens to decide. August 5, 2014 Beth Carter stated she was representing the staff, parents, and children of Cool Springs Elementary School. She said Cool Spring was scheduled to be renovated several years ago with the previous bond, however, it was not completed. She stated the severity of the conditions has increased. She mentioned several items specifically, such as times when children had to wear coats and mittens all day because there was no heat, one kindergarten class is housed in the old kitchen, some staff must work with students in closets, and issues with the rodents and reptiles. She continued to say there are ten classrooms that are not part of the main building which means an unsecured entrance, children walking outside to and from those classrooms, along with severe weather dangers. She asked that the bond be placed on the ballot for citizens to vote. She understands it is a large amount of money but you can't put a price on the life of a child. Glenda Benge, a teacher assistant at Shepherd Elementary, just wanted to ask the Board to place the bond on the ballot for citizens to vote. John Kindley, a small business owner from Mooresville, stated he has voted in every election for the past 35 years. He said the board was elected to make a budget and feels the Board can make a decision on County needs and maybe a referendum is not needed. Miles Atkins, Mooresville Commissioner, stated that Iredell County is the crossroads to the future. He feels this is a defining moment for this Board to define the future of Iredell County. Education is a uniting issue for Iredell County. He asked the Board to allow the citizens to vote. A RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS FOR THE MOORESVILLE GRADED SCHOOL DISTRICT, THE IREDELLSTATESVILLE SCHOOL DISTRICT, AND MITCHELL COMMUNITY COLLEGE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF TOWN COMMISSIONERS: WHEREAS, the Mooresville Graded School District is home to over 5,000 students annually; and WHEREAS, the Mooresville Graded School District has the second highest graduation rate in the State; and WHEREAS, the New York Times has called Mooresville the °de facto national model of the digital school;" and WHEREAS, the Mooresville Graded School District is one of most significant contributors to the quality standard of life of our citizens and is a vital part of our community; and WHEREAS, the success of the Mooresville Graded School District has been, and is, one of the driving forces behind our Town's success with economic development opportunities and plays a significant reason when people decide to relocate to our town; and WHEREAS, the auditorium and gymnasium at the Mooresville High School were built when the enrollment was 600 — 800 students and it is anticipated that the enrollment in school year 2017 — 2018 will be 2,200 — 2,400; and 8 August 5- 2014 WHEREAS, both the auditorium and the gymnasium have greatly deteriorated with the gymnasium not being able to meet today's building codes; WHEREAS, on June 6, 2014, the School Board of the Mooresville Graded School District adopted a Resolution requesting the County Board of Commissioners to submit to the voters for the issuance of general obligation bonds in the amount of $72,000,000 as parrot a larger bond package of $151,500,000.00 in School Bonds to benefit both the Mooresville Graded School District and the Iredell Statesville Schools and $12,000,000.00 in Community College Bonds for the benefit of Mitchell Community College that has a campus in our town; and WHEREAS, on June 17, 2014, the Board of County Commissioners of Iredell County voted to submit to the voters whether to approve such bonds; and WHEREAS, our town board desires to show its continuing support to the Mooresville Graded School District, the Iredell Statesville School District, and Mitchell Community College for the significant contributions they make to our town and to our county. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED THAT the Town Board of Commissioners for the Town of Mooresville hereby lends it support to the passage of $151,500,000.00 in School Bonds to benefit both the Mooresville Graded School District and the Iredell Statesville Schools and $12,000,000.00 in Community College Bonds for the benefit of Mitchell Community College and urge our citizens to support and vote for the passage of such bonds. This the 2"s day of August, 2014. Frank Rader, of Mooresville, thanked the Board for their service. He feels the underpinning of economic development is education. He expressed his concerns about graduates having opportunities and jobs to draw them back home. The Board is elected to make decisions, but now citizens are asked to help ensure the future. He mentioned several towns he recently visited, that lost industry when they lost their schools. He feels mass public education is the number one contribution to the world. David Coble, Mooresville Commissioner -at -Large, distributed a resolution passed by the Town of Mooresville in support of the school bond. He stated he is privileged to serve constituents in two schools systems. He enjoys talking to businesses about re -locating to Mooresville. He is asked which school is the best and he replies that both are excellent. He shared some recent discoveries of low performing school systems and dying towns. He reiterated the direct correlation of quality education and sustainable economic development. He feels this is an opportunity to make voices heard. Julie Karzell stated she is a parent of a rising third grader. She feels she has a right to vote and decide how the money should be spent. She asked that the decision go to the voters. She feels the buildings and facilities should match the quality of education the students are receiving which will improve communities and economy. Scott Clontz, of Statesville, thanked the Board for the public hearing. He encouraged the public to participate in the process twelve months out of the year. He said citizens should be 9 August 5- 2014 attending board meetings all the time to support the elected officials, support the hired staff and support the children. He recalled asking, in 2008, the Board of Ed to enlarge the multi-purpose room at Cool Springs. He has advocated for tax increases as long as the money goes to the class room and not administration or other frills. As a member of the Facilities Task Force he has visited every school site in the County. He stated there is no parity in North Carolina in funding of education. There is a disparity in this bond referendum as presented. He understands the needs at Mooresville High School but also understands the numbers. He hasn't seen the Town of Mooresville commit to help fund a Performance Arts Center which will benefit that governing body. He believes the bond package must contain information for tax payers to understand that property taxes will increase a minimum of 11 %. He is in favor of spending money on Cool Springs and Mooresville Senior High School but feels it must done within reason. He wants open and honesty discussions over the next three months, to get the best for the students. He wants to see the public at the school board meetings, as well. Chairman Johnson closed the public hearing and asked the County Manager to explain the next steps. County Manager Ron Smith said there are three motions to be made. The first motion deals with the school bond order of $151,500,000. The second motion will adopt a similar order for Mitchell Community College for $12,000,000. The next step is for the Chairman to instruct the Clerk to publish the orders in the Statesville Record and Landmark. The third motion will adopt the resolution calling for a bond referendum on November 4. The language for the ballot is included in the resolution. MOTION by Commissioner Ken Robertson to adopt the order first introduced on July 15, 2014 authorizing $151,500,000 school bonds for the purpose of providing funds together with any other available funds, for acquiring, constructing, improving, expanding and renovating school buildings and other school facilities including without limitation, the construction, expansion and renovation of Cool Springs Elementary School, North Iredell High School, South Iredell High School, Statesville Middle School, and Brawley Middle School and the construction of two new middle schools, and the acquisition of related land, rights of way and equipment for the Iredell- Statesville Schools Board of Education and the construction, expansion and renovation of Mooresville High School and the construction of a new middle school, and the acquisition of related land, rights of way and equipment for the Mooresville Graded School District. That taxes shall be levied in an amount sufficient to pay the principal of and the interest on said bonds, and that this order shall take effect when approved by the voters of Iredell County at a referendum as provided in the Local Government Bond Act, as amended. Chairman Johnson asked to make a comment to explain his concerns, "I'm going to be quite honest. I was born and raised to be a fiscal conservative so I detest taxes. You must understand that, but I realize that in an orderly society and for economic development that has been expressed here, those certainly must be a part of our life. I've also come to understand in twenty years of public service that simply because a resolution does not pass does not mean that something will not happen. If this resolution, tonight, does not pass it does not mean that a bond will not be on the ballot. If would just mean this particular bond would not be on the ballot. And let me explain some of my concerns. I served on the Facilities Task Force and, in fact, in my twenty-year tenure here, I've served on every one of them except one. I am not against allowing a bond. I am in favor of objective guidelines and discipline and the adherence to those guidelines. I did a great deal of 10 August 5- 2014 research on performing art centers and guidelines through the Department of Public Instruction and the State Board of Education. What I have come to learn is during early discussion one commissioner asked Dr. Edwards why this building costs so much, $42 million at that time, when Davie County was building an entire high school for $56 million. What my study and due diligence has taught me is the reason that it is so much is, quite honestly, because it is huge. This is going to be a huge facility. If you look at the guidelines published by the Department of Public Instruction and the State Board of Education, perhaps you may come to agree. Seating capacities for high schools performing/theater arts auditorium are recommended to be one quarter to one half ADM (average daily membership). This is on-line and you can read it for yourself. The logic behind it is pretty sound. If you do that, it makes build out of 2,400 seats in the school, then this auditorium, by state guidelines, should be about 1,200 seats. Having said that I am not against a larger auditorium but it says that large joint school/community use auditoriums are discouraged and that is what this is. The reason they are, is because the spans of the roof becomes significantly large and a whole new class of building requirements ensue dramatically increasing the cost. What guidelines am I talking about and what discipline am I talking about is because it was these guidelines that were implemented when we built Lake Norman High School. Albeit it is too small now, it was built for 600 seats for 1200 kids. It is the logic that was used at Statesville High School. Although that auditorium was expanded but only after the City of Statesville agreed to put money into it so they could use it as well. 1 would be willing to vote for an 1800 seat auditorium tonight but in doing so you begin to jeopardize the integrity of the funding source for schools when you begin to build something over and above what the DPI and the Board of Education says is necessary for that school. 1 would be willing to do it if the community would come forward like Statesville did at Senior High. There's been talk of it but I haven't seen a check, just talk. Talk is cheap and it takes money to buy land. This was the logic that was employed in this bond for South Iredell High School and North Iredell High school. As a member of the school facilities task force, those were the guidelines. I specifically questioned Rob Jackson of that matter and he explained the logic. This is also the logic being employed by the Davie County new high school, 1,800 kid school with slightly less than 900 seat auditorium. My logic is not flawed and 1 am not unreasonable. I understand. I've been doing this long enough that a lot of times you take a position that is different from someone else, often times they try to depict your position as being extreme. My position is not extreme. I think it is prudent and is actually a significant compromise. I would be willing to vote for it if the portion of the bond necessary to serve the high school was what the County was being funded. If we are going to spend over and above what the school needs then we need to be bold enough to raise the tax rate from the general fund high enough to support the debt service on this or be bold enough to ask Mooresville to contribute as Statesville did. That's all I'm asking. That's what we have done in the past. That is what we have historically done. But this is a departure. Let me just touch on Cool Springs. I was on the last school facilities task force when Cool Springs was left off when the economy went into the ditch. With the debt we have soon going off, it would not be a long time before the Cool Springs issue could be addressed without a significant tax increase. All I am asking for is to maintain the integrity of the school capital revenue stream as it exist and has served us well and if we do that it will not needlessly delay other projects that would come after it. That's all I am saying. I think that is a reasonable approach. 1 do not think it is too much to ask for and I think we are establishing, when we build more than what a school needs to service an entire community and we fund it from school revenues, a dangerous precedence in doing that. Now, this is the point of no return tonight. Whatever we decide here tonight becomes the law of the County and we will do it. I've been doing this long enough to tell you that once you are on the losing side of a vote you don't win many friends by going around throwing rocks at everybody and telling them how bad a mistake they made. I will work diligently with this board August 5- 2014 and if I am still in this position then I will go to the bond signings. But one thing you should be concerned about at school bond signings is how many lawyers you are paying for. It didn't take that many lawyers to end World War II. I will go to the bond signing and faithfully execute it and be a good steward to make sure this money goes where it says it is going to go. But I think this is a departure. After tonight when this becomes the policy of the County you will hear no more decent from me in my official capacity." Commissioner Ken Robertson asked to clarify, "When you said $40 million goes for an auditorium, that goes for a whole lot more than an auditorium. That is for the project and includes the gymnasiums and renovations to a school building that is over sixty years old. To say it is $40 million for an auditorium isn't exactly, totally accurate. Also the seating capacity recommended at full grow out at Mooresville Senior High is that the auditorium should hold about 1,200 students which is about the capacity today. (Dr. Edwards interjected from the audience, it is at 1,400 today.) All I have to say, is that I have been in Mooresville auditorium recently and it has been full and as a parent of someone who went to Lake Norman High School, I will tell you it is a little rough to be there when that high school auditorium is packed to capacity and rocking the house down because they are celebrating the beginning of a school year. I am convinced that as that high school and that school system grows that auditorium will need to be larger because it is operating at capacity now and plenty of times. It is also my understanding that the town board and the mayor are willing to jump in and help this high school but they are not writing the checks until they know there is going to be a high school there. We understand you can't write checks until there is a plan in place. I've made a motion and unless there are some other comments..." Chairman Johnson said, "Again I just reiterate, I am not opposed to larger than 1,200 seats. I am not attempting to argue they don't need that to serve the school and community. 1 am just saying by the state guidelines we ought to ask them to adhere to the policy that we have asked every other high school in this county to adhere to. In terms of Mooresville, I have dealt with them for a long time and they are good folks. I've been doing business longer than I've been a County Commissioner, trust leaves on horseback and returns on foot." Commissioner Robertson said, "You said we followed the guidelines for Lake Norman High School and it is too small now. Maybe we shouldn't follow those guidelines." Chairman Johnson said, "If the economy had not tanked we would probably now be talking about the construction of another high school in the southern end of the County. You are limited as to what you can do, we learned this in the school facilities task force. We learned that you are limited what else you can do on the campus of Lake Norman because they are in a critical water shed area. That's the reason Iredell Statesville Schools went somewhere else and bought land for a high school." Commissioner Gene Houpe stated, "First I would like to thank everyone for coming regardless of where you stand. I want to congratulate both systems in this County for all your awards and successes. I think everybody here are proud of you. Keep working hard for our citizens and our kids. I said last time, at the first bond reading, that we have to be forward thinking. Our state superintendent agreed with me. I think I used the word proactive. The DPI is a soft recommendation. June Atkins sent a letter saying we are better off to be forward thinking. Lake Norman High School is an example in the south end of the County that was at/over capacity within a year. If you compare Lake Norman High School project and Statesville High School project, 12 August 5, 2014 applying the consumer price index to it, which means if you were building it today, the project in Mooresville is in-line with that almost identical. The difference, that I disagree with Chairman Johnson on, is the Iredell Statesville System has multi high schools. Mooresville Graded System is going to have one high school that is going to last thirty to fifty years. With the examples we have in the south end we are better off, in my opinion, to be proactive. You do it one time and you do it right. I will share his sentiment from years ago, a comment Chairman Johnson made, `Sometimes the conservative thing to do is spend money.' I think we have to be forward thinking. Economic growth in our County is directly correlated with successes of our schools. That's one of the main things the business and industrial people coming into our county look at. One of the main things is the successes of our schools. We have a diverse county. We have a great agriculture in the north end that contributes greatly to our county and our state. We have the hustle bustle in the south end. We are diverse. People come here because they want to live here. If taxes alone were a barometer, Mooresville would be a ghost town. Mooresville is one of the highest taxed cities in the state. People are knocking down the doors to come here. We've got four economic incentives voted on tonight and we have some coming tonight from the Mooresville Economic Development people in closed session. 1 just agree the tax payers have a choice. They should have a choice. For example, I just challenge all the voters before they vote for or against this bond to do the research. Sometimes the return on your investment is the original investment. A property of $150,000 in Iredell County will go up $82.50 annually, 23¢ a day, $1.59 a week and $6.88 a month. Ladies and gentlemen, I am not here to advocate for or against. I want to tell you there is going to be an impact to your tax rate. But if you want this county to continue to grow, if you want to create jobs in this county, if you want to continue to attract quality people, as the commissioner from Mooresville said, attract our kids or grandkids to come back or stay in this county, we've got to be proactive. We've got to be bold and we've got to be willing to take steps. The bonds are done in phases to protect the tax payers in this county. It is done over five to seven years. If the economy changes or takes a down turn, the Commissioners will have oversight for the tax payers of this county. So I just want to challenge the voters, there will be a lot of rhetoric out here, but call the school system and talk to them about their projects. Call Ron Smith or any of us. Get the truth before you make a vote on the bonds in November. Don't just take your neighbor's word for it. You have an obligation to do what is right for the kids. There is a lot of people in this county that don't have kids in school. But 1 want them to understand success in our schools means success in economic development and economic development means jobs. Economic development means your property taxes will go up. It will benefit you if we have successes in our schools. So get the facts before you make an objective decision. Again, I think we have to be proactive. Sometimes being proactive, the conservative thing to do for the tax payers, is to spend money." Vice Chainnan Marvin Norman called for a vote. Chairman Johnson said there was a motion on the floor. VOTING: Ayes — 4, Nays — 1 (Chairman Steve Johnson) Commissioner Ken Robertson read the motion to adopt the order first introduced on July 15, 2014 authorizing S 12,000,000 Community College Bonds for the purpose of providing funds, together with any other available funds, for acquiring, constructing, renovation, expanding, improving and equipping various community college facilities for Mitchell Community College, including, without limitation, the construction of a new Allied Health Facility. That tax shall be levied in an amount sufficient to pay the principal of and the interest on the bonds, and that this 13 August 5, 2014 order shall take effect when approved by the voters of Iredell County at a referendum as provided in the Local Government Bond Act, as amended. Commissioner Robertson stated he feels the honor of making that motion should go to Vice Chairman Norman who sat on the Board for the community college. MOTION by Vice Chairman Marvin Norman to adopt the order authorizing $12,000,000 Community College Bonds. VOTING: Ayes — 5, Nays — 0 Chairman Johnson directed the Clerk to the Board to publish said orders together with the appended statement as required by the Local Government Bond Act, as amended, in the Statesville Record and Landmark. MOTION by Commissioner Renee Griffith to adopt the resolution calling for a bond referendum on November 4, 2014 at which there shall be submitted to the qualified voters of the County the questions stated in the form of the ballot set forth in Section 4 of this resolution, and directing the Clerk to the Board to publish a notice of bond referendum in the Statesville Record and Landmark once at least 14 days before October 10, 2014 and again not less than 7 days before October 10, 2014, and to deliver a certified copy of this resolution to the Iredell County Board of Elections within three days of its passage. Chairman Johnson said, "I intend to vote for this motion as I promised earlier. Once it's passed and this is the action of the board, I would not do anything to unduly delay. So in terms of the adoption of the referendum, that toothpaste is out of the tube. You know my position on it. I am just not a sore loser." VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 Chairman declared the meeting recessed for five minutes. ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS Request from the Register of Deeds to Refund $85 to Brock & Scott, PLLC, for Overpayment of Excise Tax: County Manager Ron Smith stated a letter from Register of Deeds Matt McCall was included in the agenda packet. Smith is recommending the refund. OTIO by Commissioner Renee Griffith to approve. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 Request from the Sheriff's Department to Approve BA #4 to Appropriate $5,000 from Seized Funds to Iredell-Statesville Crime Stoppers: Deputy Rick Eades asked the Board to approve budget amendment #4 to appropriate $5,000 from seized funds to the Iredell-Statesville Crime Stoppers. 14 August 5, 2014 Commissioner Ken Robertson said he will make the motion to approve but wanted the County Manager to ensure the Sheriff's office is aware this should be covered in the budget process. County Manager Ron Smith said yes, he has discussed this with the Sheriff's Office. MOTIO by Commissioner Robertson to approve budget amendment #4. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0. Budget Amendment Fiscal Year 2014-15 BA#4 To allocated Federal Equity Funds for a donation to Iredell-Statesville 8/5/2014 Crime Stoppers. Account # General Fund Current Chane Amended 104880 499404 Appro. Fund Bal - Fed Equity (204,688) (5,000) (209,688) 105510 538015 Crime Stoppers 5,000 5,000 Request from Tax Administration to Present the 2013 Annual Tax Settlement and Issue Orders to the Tax Collector and the Sheriff to Collect Taxes for the Coming Year: Tax Administrator Bill Furches brought their attention to the tax chart that was included in the agenda packet. He pointed out that Iredell County has the 17`h lowest tax rate in the 100 counties in North Carolina. The chart also includes rates for all jurisdictions in the County. Commissioner Ken Robertson asked to include Union County as a comparison on next year's chart. He said Union County is experiencing the same type of growth as Iredell County. Furches said his presence tonight is required by law, G.S. 105-373, to make an annual settlement before the turnover of the new year's taxes to collect. He also requested the Board to issue orders to the Tax Collector and Sheriff to collect taxes for the coming year. This is the best report he has given in ten years and is very pleased. With the year ending June 30, 2014, the vehicle tax system overlapped a little which means they collected another $2 million. With that overlap, collections were over $100 million. He explained each line item of the following report. 2013 Taxes: Real & Personal Levy $93,481,956.36 Motor Vehicles 4,016,767.96 MV — VTS 5,127,014.04 Add: Discoveries 534,131.57 Deduct: Releases (217,728.17) $102,942,141.76 15 August 5, 2014 Collections 2013 Outstanding Taxes Collection Rates: All Property Excluding Motor Vehicles Motor Vehicles Delinquent Taxes: Collections Delinquent Taxes Outstanding 2014 Taxes Collected 100,614,406.20 $2,327,735.56 The Numbers 97.74% 97.97% 91.97% $2,606,628 $4,602,966 $ 321,681 Collected $3,593,230 more in current Iredell County taxes than previous year — up 3.7% Collected $1,329,191 more than was budgeted— 101.3% of original budget Ten year cumulative total $16.43million over budgeted revenues Ten year cumulative delinquent collections $21,218,188 Collected for all jurisdictions: 6-30-14 $161,404,596 Vehicle Tags Blocked Tax Statements MV Third Notices Debt Setoff Garnishments Payment Arrangements Lien Holder Letters Bank Attachments Bankruptcies Foreclosures filed Vehicle Taxes Fiscal Year 2013 2012 Tax Collection Actions 36,431 1,165 5,075 1,004 ($623,905) 928 ($957,769) 65 159 117 ($570,165) Tax Collection Problems 259 for $309,568 (281 for $695,278 FY2013) 833 (Decrease from 1,077) (284 Jan -June 2014) 3.9% of total levy — 13.7% of delinquencies - $319,359 Collection Rates Last Nine Fiscal Years Original Collection Rate 97.06% 96.77% 16 Current Collection Rate 98.86% 99.15% August 5, 2014 2011 96.81% 99.37% 2010 96.77% 99.48% 2009 96.89% 99.61% 2008 97.58% 99.64% 2007 96.80% 99.36% 2006 96.85% 99.62% 2005 96.94% 99.68% Average 96.94% 99.42% Debt Setoff For the fiscal years 2002-2014, Iredell ranked 28TH in the state out of 407 units of government participating with $2,573,935 collected. Iredell County did not participate in 2002 and 2003. For all years, we rank 22ND among counties. Foreclosures As of this date, the collector's office has sent 500 properties to foreclosure. Most of these properties have paid out. We have collected $2,104,046 in current and delinquent taxes and no properties have been foreclosed. Furches stated that the Vehicle Tags Blocked program is going away. The State of North Carolina is no longer going to block them and it is going to be more difficult to collect the old bills. Commissioner Gene Houpe expressed his appreciation to Mr. Furches for a good job. Commissioner Ken Robertson said the high numbers show a good system in place and a sustained effort to do things right year after year, which is an excellent reflection on the leadership of the department as well as the professionalism and hard work of the staff members. He asked Mr. Furches to convey the Board's gratitude to his staff. Chairman Johnson stated there needs to be a motion to empower the tax collector and sheriff to collect taxes. OTIO by Commissioner Renee Griffith to approve. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0. 17 August 5, 2014 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA ORDER COUNTY OF IREDELL TO: THE TAX COLLECTOR OF THE COUNTY OF IREDELL You are hereby authorized, empowered, and commanded to collect the taxes set forth in the tax records filed in the Office of the Tax Assessor and in the tax receipts herewith delivered to you, in the amounts and from the taxpayers likewise therein set forth. Such taxes are hereby declared to be a first lien upon all real property of the respective taxpayers in the County of Iredell, and this order shall be a full and sufficient authority to direct, require and enable you to levy on and sell any real or personal property of such taxpayers, for and on account thereof, in accordance with law. Witness my hand and official seal, this the 51h day of August, 2014. IREDELL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA :-_: COUNTY OF IREDELL TO: THE SHERIFF OF THE COUNTY OF IREDELL You are hereby authorized, empowered, and commanded to collect the taxes set forth in the tax records filed in the Office of the Tax Assessor and in the tax receipts herewith delivered to you, in the amounts and from the taxpayers likewise therein set forth. Such taxes are hereby declared to be a first lien upon all real property of the respective taxpayers in the County of Iredell, and this order shall be a full and sufficient authority to direct, require and enable you to levy on and sell any real or personal property of such taxpayers, for and on account thereof, in accordance with law. Witness my hand and official seal, this the 51h day of August, 2014. IREDELL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS Request for Approval of the July 15, 2014, Minutes: MOTION by Vice Chairman Marvin Norman to approve. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0. ANNOUNCEMENTS OF VACANCIES OCCURRING ON BOARD & COMMISSIONS Troutman Planning Board (1 Announcement) Fire Tax District Board (3 Announcements) Mitchell Community College Board of Trustees (I Announcement) APPOINTMENTS TO BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS 18 August 5, 2014 Zoning Board of Adjustment (1 Appointment) Chairman Steve Johnson nominated Tom Gregory of Lake Norman Realty. MOTION by Chairman Johnson to close the floor to nominations and appoint Mr. Gregory by acclamation. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 UNFINISHED BUSINESS (None) PUBLIC COMMENT (None) NEW BUSINESS (None) COUNTY MANAGER'S REPORT County Manager Ron Smith stated the Record and Landmark reported the current I -77/I- 40 construction project has lost funding for Phase II. It is his understanding the fly -overs will not be funded and therefore leaving the three loops of the cloverleaf which are extreme safety hazards. He will try to obtain and share more information as soon as possible. He feels this is a result of the "10% rule" which means this project is over 10% of the regions. However, if that rule was not in place the project ranks very high. He will research for more information and potentially bring some type of action before the board. This project is already under construction and to stop it in mid- stream is bad policy and bad safety for travelers. Chairman Johnson said they have done an outstanding job with this large project to not impede traffic any more than they have. He encouraged Smith to research and let the Board know if there is anything that can be done. CLOSED SESSION OTION by Chairman Steve Johnson to go into Closed Session pursuant to G.S. 143- 318.11 (a) (4) Economic Development, G.S. 143-318.11 (a) (6) Personnel at 8:56 p.m. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 (RETURNED TO OPEN SESSION AT 9:57 p.m.) Economic Development —MOTION by Commissioner Renee Griffith to call for a public hearing August 19, 2014, at 7:00 p.m., regarding an economic development incentive ranging between $58,200 and $112,520 over a five year period for Project Control based on a $3 million to $5.8 million investment in Iredell County. 19 August 5, 2014 VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 Economic Development —MOTION by Commissioner Gene Houpe to call for a public hearing on August 19, 2014, at 7:00 p.m., regarding an economic development incentive of $56,406 over a five year period for Project HIL based on a $3.55 million investment in Iredell County. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 Economic Development —MOTION by Chairman Steve Johnson to call for a public hearing on August 19, 2014, at 7:00 p.m., regarding an economic development incentive of $97,000 over a five year period for Project Sickle based on a $5 million investment in Iredell County. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 Economic Development —MOTION by Vice Chairman Marvin Norman to call for a public hearing on August 19, 2014, at 7:00 p.m., regarding an economic development incentive of $58,200 over a five year period for Project Dallas based on a $3 million investment in Iredell County. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 Economic Development— MOTION by Commissioner Ken Robertson to call for a public hearing on August 19, 2014, at 7:00 p.m., regarding an economic development incentive of $155,200 over a five year period for Project Golden based on an $8 million investment in Iredell County. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 ADJOURNMENT: MOTIO by Chairman Johnson to adjourn at 10:00 p.m. (The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, August 19, 2014, 7:00 p.m. in the Commissioners' Room of the Iredell County Government Center, 200 South Center Street, Statesville, NC) VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0. Approval: 20 Clerk to the Board