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HomeMy WebLinkAboutDecember 2 2014 Regular MinutesDecember 2. 2014 IREDELL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MINUTES December 2, 2014 The Iredell County Board of Commissioners met on Tuesday, December 2, 2014, at 7:00 PM, in the Iredell County Government Center (Commissioners' Meeting Room), 200 South Center Street, Statesville, NC. Board Members Present Chairman James B. Mallory, III Vice Chairman Marvin Norman Tommy Bowles Steve Johnson Ken Robertson Staff present: County Manager Ron Smith, County Attorney Bill Pope, Deputy County Manager Beth Dirks, Finance Director Susan G. Robertson, Public Safety Coordinator David Saleeby, and Clerk to the Board Retha Gaither. CALL TO ORDER by Chairman Mallory INVOCATION by Chairman Mallory PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE by Chairman Mallory ADJUSTMENTS OF THE AGENDA: MOTION by Commissioner Steve Johnson to adopt the agenda with the following adjustment: Delete: Item C, Memo #3 and Closed Session Item. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0. PRESENTATION OF SPECIAL RECOGNITIONS & AWARDS (None) Presentation of the Annual Community Services Block Grant Anti -Poverty Plan for Review: Brian Duncan of I -Care, addressed the Board and reviewed the annual application for funding for the Community Services Block Grant. This is a federally funded program in Iredell County and operates on a three year plan. A recent community forum was held to identify specific needs to help families rise above poverty. Barriers focused on by this program are lack of money, lack of education, unemployment/under employment, and lack of access to economic opportunities. The three year plan is to move 42 families above poverty level by June 30 of 2018. Recently one of the issues has been clients with criminal histories trying to gain employment, which can be challenging. Therefore, a little more funding has been directed to education and Mitchell Community College to steer clients toward entrepreneur opportunities. Last year the December 2, 2014 average change in annual income per family was over $12,000. Eight families were moved above poverty level, the average wage rate was $8.71, eighteen people completed education and training programs, eight secured standard housing and seventeen received emergency assistance. Last year's budget was $168,924 but next year's funding has increased to $265,522.00. Chairman Mallory stated no action was required by the Board and thanked Mr. Brain for the wealth of information presented and the work performed by this program. Request from Iredell Statesville Schools for Approval of Transitional Funds: Iredell- Statesville Board of Education Vice Chairman Charles Kelly thanked the Board for adding the bond referendum to the ballot and thanked the citizens of Iredell County for the favorable vote. He stated their presence this evening is to outline steps to move forward with construction plans. Iredell Statesville Schools Superintendent Brady Johnson echoed Mr. Kelly's comments. He thanked the Facilities Task Force for their work. He stated the Cool Spring community is very excited to get started and ISS is excited to create a plan to expedite the work. Kenny Miller stated they have a very tight time line for the Cool Springs' project. This time line is driven by the safety and security of the children. They would like to have the transition in place before summer. They would like to begin the demolition when children are not on campus, therefore, the transition part must be done which includes site work, two mega units, relocation of utilities, etc. This is the reason for the request for the $500,000. This will expedite those issues before the demolition. The money will be refunded when the bonds are sold. They would like the project done by August 2016. Commissioner Ken Robertson clarified the request is basically a loan to begin. The bond money isn't expected until late summer. Miller said yes. Commissioner Robertson questioned the amount of the request and the cost of the project. Miller said they are trying to be strategic with the transitional plan. They must have a place to temporarily house the students. Miller said they are ready to bid and could break ground as soon as the bonds are sold. Brady Johnson stated he understood the Board needs time to discuss and deliberate so therefore, they are not expecting an answer tonight. This is just a snapshot of their timeline. Commissioner Ken Robertson stated he was willing to move for approval. Chairman Mallory asked if a ten-day delay would hinder the planning process. Brady Johnson said it would not be problem. 2 December 2, 2014 Chairman Mallory said the school superintendents, the County Manager and others will be meeting soon to discuss the next steps in the bond. He suggested deferring this item to the fall retreat on December 12. MOTION by Commissioner Ken Robertson to amend his first statement and moved to add this item to the agenda for approval on December 12. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 PUBLIC HEARINGS Chairman James Mallory called the meeting into a Public Hearing. Request from Statesville Regional Development for Approval of an Economic Development Incentive for Project Garlic: Statesville Regional Development Director Mike Smith stated they are requesting an economic development grant to an existing industry known as Project Garlic. They are considering an expansion at their facility in Statesville. Home Star of North America proposes a minimum investment of $3.3 million and will create 120 new full-time jobs averaging at least $18.15 per hour and paying at least 50% of all employees' health benefits. The economic incentive is based on the county making an appropriation up to $24,328 over a two year period based on this investment. Commissioner Ken Robertson asked to clarify the length of time for the agreement. Mike Smith said it is a unique agreement because they are only asking for two years of support due to the nature of the project. Typically they would ask for five years but not for this project. OTION by Commissioner Steve Johnson to grant this request for an economic development incentive in the amount not to exceed $24,328 over a two year period based on a $3.3 million investment in Iredell County. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 F.11111\1.i_ Request from the Finance Department to Adopt a Resolution Declaring the Result of the Bond Referendum: Finance Director Susan Robertson stated each Commissioner had received a copy of the proceedings that were held by the Iredell County Board of Elections for the November 4, 2014 election. The meeting was held on November 14. At that time the Board of Elections received the returns for the bond referendum from the Chief Judge and Judges of Elections for the precincts and voting places in the County. After the returns were canvased the Iredell County Board of Elections introduced a resolution. (Robertson read the resolution.) From the canvas made the Board determined and certified the number of voters and the votes cast for and against. A majority of the votes were cast for the $119.5 million in school bonds and a majority of votes were cast for the $12 million community college bonds. The Chairman of the Board of December 2, 2014 Elections was directed to transmit a certified copy of the resolution to the Iredell County Board of Commissioners, which they did. Based on those proceedings, the Board of Commissioners are required to take further action. RESOLUTION RELATING TO THE CANVASS OF THE RETURNS OF THE BOND REFERENDUM HELD IN THE COUNTY OF IREDELL, NORTH CAROLINA ON NOVEMBER 4, 2014 UPON THE QUESTIONS OF APPROVING $119,500,000 SCHOOL BONDS AND $12,000,000 COMMUNITY COLLEGE BONDS AND DETERMINING THE RESULTS THEREOF BE IT RESOLVED by the Iredell County Board of Elections (the "Board"): Section 1. The returns of the bond referendum held in the County of Iredell, North Carolina (the "County") on November 4, 2014 upon the questions of approving $I 19,500,000 School Bonds and $12,000,000 Community College Bonds of the County having been received from the proper election officers and having been canvassed, this Board has found and determined and does hereby declare as follows: (a) Each chief judge and judge for said referendum was duly qualified by law and had taken the necessary oath. (b) The election officers had incorporated in their returns not only the number of votes cast for and against the questions submitted, but also the number of voters registered and qualified to vote in each precinct in said referendum. (c) At said referendum there was submitted to the qualified voters of the County the following questions: Shalt the order adopted on August 5, 2014, as amended and restated on August 19, 2014, authorizing not exceeding S 119,500,000 SCHOOL BONDS of the County of Iredell, North Carolina, plus interest, 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 in said County, including, without limitation, (a) 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 (b) the construction, expansion and renovation of Mooresville High School and the acquisition of related land, rights of way and equipment for the Mooresville Graded School District, and providing that additional taxes may be levied in an amount sufficient to pay the principal of and interest on said bonds, be approved? Shall the order adopted on August 5, 2014, authorizing not exceeding $12,000,000 COMMUNITY COLLEGE BONDS of the County of Iredell, North Carolina, plus interest, for the purpose of providing funds, together with any other available funds, for acquiring, constructing, renovating, expanding, improving and equipping various community college facilities for Mitchell Community College, including, without limitation, the construction of a new Allied Health facility, and providing that additional taxes may be levied in an amount sufficient to pay the principal of and interest on said bonds, be approved? (d) No complaints have been made to the Board against the regularity of said referendum. (e) Said referendum and the registration therefor were duly and properly held in accordance with law. Section 2. The attached schedule correctly shows the designation of the precincts at which said referendum was held and, as to each precinct, the location of the voting place, the number of voters registered and qualified to vote, the number of votes cast in favor of the questions submitted and the number of votes cast against such questions; the number of absentee, transfer, provisional and one-stop voting ballots returned in favor of such questions and the number of absentee, transfer, provisional and one-stop voting ballots returned against such questions; and the totals of such numbers. Section 3. From the canvass made, the Board does hereby determine and certify: (a) That 111808 _ voters were registered and qualified to vote. (b) At said referendum _27590 votes were cast for the order adopted on August 5, 2014, as amended and restated on August 19, 2014, authorizing not exceeding $119,500,000 School Bonds of the County of Iredell, North Carolina, plus interest, for the purpose of providing funds, together with any other available 4 December 2, 2014 funds, for acquiring, constructing, improving, expanding and renovating school buildings and other school facilities in said County, including, without limitation, (a) 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 (b) the construction, expansion and renovation of Mooresville High School and the acquisition of related land, rights of way and equipment for the Mooresville Graded School District, and providing that additional taxes may be levied in an amount sufficient to pay the principal of and interest on said bonds, and 21831 votes were cast against said order, and that a majority of the qualified voters of the County of Iredell, North Carolina who voted thereon at said referendum voted in favor of said order. (c) At said referendum 26193_ votes were cast for the order adopted on August 5, 2014, authorizing not exceeding $12,000,000 Community College Bonds of the County of Iredell, North Carolina, plus interest, for the purpose of providing funds, together with any other available funds, for acquiring, constructing, renovating, expanding, improving and equipping various community college facilities for Mitchell Community College, including, without limitation, the construction of a new Allied Health facility, and providing that additional taxes may be levied in an amount sufficient to pay the principal of and interest on said bonds, and 22338 votes were cast against said order, and that a majority of the qualified voters of the County of Iredell, North Carolina who voted thereon at said referendum voted in favor of said order. Section 4. The Chairman of the Iredell County Board of Elections is hereby directed to transmit immediately a certified copy of this resolution to the Board of Commissioners for the County of Iredell, North Carolina. Upon motion of Alan carpenter seconded by Charles Lyons, the foregoing resolution entitled: "RESOLUTION RELATING TO THE CANVASS OF THE RETURNS OF THE BOND REFERENDUM HELD IN THE COUNTY OF IREDELL, NORTH CAROLINA ON NOVEMBER 4, 2014 UPON THE QUESTIONS OF APPROVING $119,500,000 SCHOOL BONDS AND $12,000,000 COMMUNITY COLLEGE BONDS AND DETERMINING THE RESULTS THEREOF" was passed by the following vote: Ayes: Charles Lyons, Alan Carpenter, Grey Mills Noes: Chairman Mallory formally introduced a resolution declaring the result of the bond referendum held in the County of Iredell, North Carolina on November 4, 2014, upon the questions of approving $119.5 million in school bonds and $12 million community college bonds and declaring the official intent of the Board of Commissioners is to reimburse expenditures by the County from the proceeds of such bonds. Finance Director Susan Robertson continued. Having received the information from the Board of Elections, the County Commissioners are charged with determining, declaring, and certifying the result of the referendum as set forth in the following statements: RESOLUTION DECLARING THE RESULT OF THE BOND REFERENDUM HELD IN THE COUNTY OF IREDELL, NORTH CAROLINA ON NOVEMBER 4, 2014, UPON THE QUESTIONS OF APPROVING $119,500,000 SCHOOL BONDS AND $12,000,000 COMMUNITY COLLEGE BONDS BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Commissioners for the County of Iredell, North Carolina: Section 1. The Board of Commissioners, having received from the Iredell County Board of Elections a certified copy of the proceedings of said Board of Elections taken on November 14, 2014, evidencing said Board of Elections' determination of the result of the canvass of the returns of the bond referendum held in the County of Iredell, North Carolina on November 4, 2014, upon the questions of approving $119,500,000 School Bonds and $12,000,000 Community College Bonds of said County, does hereby declare and certify the result of said referendum to be the result which is set forth in the following statements of the result of said referendum, which statements have been prepared by said Board: STATEMENT OF THE RESULT of the December 2, 2014 BOND REFERENDUM held in the COUNTY OF IREDELL, NORTH CAROLINA on NOVEMBER 4, 2014 UPON THE QUESTION OF APPROVING $119,500,000 SCHOOL BONDS At a bond referendum held in the County of Iredell, North Carolina on November 4, 2014, 111,808 voters were registered and qualified to vote. At said referendum 27,590 votes were cast for the order adopted on August 5, 2014, as amended and restated on August 19, 2014, authorizing not exceeding $119,500,000 School Bonds of the County of Iredell, North Carolina, plus interest, 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 in said County, including, without limitation, (a) 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 (b) the construction, expansion and renovation of Mooresville High School and the acquisition of related land, rights of way and equipment for the Mooresville Graded School District, and providing that additional taxes may be levied in an amount sufficient to pay the principal of and interest on said bonds, and 21,831 votes were cast against said order, and that a majority of the qualified voters of the County of Iredell, North Carolina who voted thereon at said referendum voted in favor of said order, said order was thereby approved and is in force and effect. Board of Commissioners for the County of Iredell, North Carolina STATEMENT OF THE RESULT of the BOND REFERENDUM held in the COUNTY OF IREDELL, NORTH CAROLINA on NOVEMBER 4, 2014 UPON THE QUESTION OF APPROVING $12,000,000 COMMUNITY COLLEGE BONDS At a bond referendum held in the County of Iredell, North Carolina on November 4, 2014, 111,808 voters were registered and qualified to vote. At said referendum 26,193 votes were cast for the order adopted on August 5, 2014, authorizing not exceeding $12,000,000 Community College Bonds of the County of Iredell, North Carolina, plus interest, for the purpose of providing funds, together with any other available funds, for acquiring, constructing, renovating, expanding, improving and equipping various community college facilities for Mitchell Community College, including, without limitation, the construction of a new Allied Health facility, and providing that additional taxes may be levied in an amount sufficient to pay the principal of and interest on said bonds, and 22,338 votes were cast against said order, and that a majority of the qualified voters of the County of Iredell, North Carolina who voted thereon at said referendum voted in favor of said order, said order was thereby approved and is in force and effect. Board of Commissioners for the County of Iredell, North Carolina Section 2. The Clerk to the Board of Commissioners for the County of Iredell, North Carolina shall file copies of the foregoing statements of the result of said referendum in her office and shall publish such statements once in the Statesville Record & Landmark. A statement in substantially the following form shall be published with the foregoing statements: Any action or proceeding challenging the regularity or validity of this bond referendum must be begun within 30 days after [date of publication]. Section 3. This resolution shall take effect upon its passage. Finance Director Susan Robertson stated this also includes a section regarding treasury regulations which prescribes specific actions that have to be taken in order to reimburse the County for cost incurred prior to the bonds being issued. This is necessary if the $500,000 is approved for ISS or if they should incur any other cost prior to the bonds being issued. 6 December 2, 2014 MOTIO by Vice Chairman Marvin Norman to adopt a resolution declaring the results of the bond referendum held on November 4, 2014. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 Request from the Finance Department to Adopt a Resolution and Bond Order to Issue General Obligation Refunding Bonds: Finance Director Susan Robertson said that Iredell County issued general obligation bonds in 1997 of $22,180,000 of which $2,980,000 is still outstanding. Additional general obligations bonds were issued in 2006 totaling $45,330. The balance remaining on the bond is $29,580,000. The average interest rates on the outstanding bonds are 4.75% for the 1997 issue and 4.42% for the 2006 issue. Current market conditions are such that the County can refinance the outstanding debt at interest rates estimated to be in the 2.3% range which would result in 6.17 % net present value savings of about $1.9 million. The interest rate is not set until the refunding bonds are sold so the savings could be more or less than quoted. Commissioner Ken Robertson asked what typically happens with the savings. Finance Director Susan Robertson said a funding mechanism was set up in 1992 for school capital outlay and consider taxes that have been designated specifically for school capital plus restricted sales taxes. When the debt is refunded the savings will go back into that fund and the money will be available for additional school capital projects unless the Board takes a different action. Commissioner Tommy Bowles asked if that money could be used to reduce the other school bond debt. Susan Robertson said it could. Chairman Mallory said this is a two part process. First, he introduced for consideration the resolution making certain findings and determinations and authorizing the filing of an application with the local government commission in connection with the proposed issuance of general obligation refunding bonds by the County of Iredell, North Carolina. Susan Robertson reviewed the sections of the resolution. RESOLUTION MAKING CERTAIN FINDINGS AND DETERMINATIONS AND AUTHORIZING THE FILING OF AN APPLICATION WITH THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT COMMISSION IN CONNECTION WITH THE PROPOSED ISSUANCE OF GENERAL OBLIGATION REFUNDING BONDS BY THE COUNTY OF IREDELL, NORTH CAROLINA BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Commissioners (the "Board") of the County of Iredell, North Carolina (the "County"): Section 1. The Board does hereby determine that: (a) Preliminary analysis has been completed to demonstrate a benefit of refunding all or a portion of the County's outstanding (i) General Obligation School Bonds, Series 1997, dated August 1, 1997 and maturing February 1, 2016 and 2017, (ii) General Obligation School Bonds, Series 2006, dated February 1, 2006 and maturing February 1, 2017 through February 1, 2026, inclusive, and (iii) General Obligation Public I December 2, 2014 Improvement Bonds, Series 2006, dated June 1, 2006 and maturing June 1, 2016 through 2026, inclusive (collectively the "Bonds to be Refunded"). (b)The Board wishes to commence the procedures for the issuance of not to exceed $31,000,000 General Obligation Refunding Bonds of the County (the `Bonds") for the purpose of providing funds, together with any other available funds, to refund all or a portion of the Bonds to be Refunded. (c) The annual audits of the County show the County to be in strict compliance with debt management policies and that the budgetary and fiscal management policies are in compliance with law. Section 2. The filing by the County of an application with the North Carolina Local Government Commission for approval of the issuance of the Bonds in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed $31,000,000 is hereby authorized, ratified and approved. Section 3. The law firm of Womble Carlyle Sandridge & Rice, LLP is hereby appointed to serve, but solely at the pleasure of the Board, as bond counsel to the County in connection with the issuance of the Bonds. Section 4. This resolution shall take effect immediately upon its passage. OTIO by Commissioner Steve Johnson to approve. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 Chairman James B. Mallory introduced for consideration the Order Authorizing $31 million General Obligation Refunding Bonds. Susan Robertson reviewed the order. ORDER AUTHORIZING $31,000,000 GENERAL OBLIGATION REFUNDING BONDS BE IT ORDERED by the Board of Commissioners of the County of Iredell, North Carolina: 1. That pursuant to The Local Government Bond Act, as amended, the County of Iredell, North Carolina, is hereby authorized to contract a debt, in addition to any and all other debt which said County may now or hereafter have power and authority to contract, and in evidence thereof to issue General Obligation Refunding Bonds in an aggregate principal amount not exceeding $31,000,000 for the purpose of providing funds, together with any other available funds, to (a) refund all or a portion of the County's outstanding (i) School Bonds, Series 1997, dated August 1, 1997 and maturing February 1, 2016 and 2017, (ii) General Obligation School Bonds, Series 2006, dated February 1, 2006 and maturing February 1, 2017 through February 1, 2026, inclusive, and (iii) General Obligation Public Improvement Bonds, Series 2006, dated June 1, 2006 and maturing June 1, 2016 through 2026, inclusive and (b) pay certain expenses related thereto. 2. That taxes shall be levied in an amount sufficient to pay the principal of and the interest on said bonds. 3. That a sworn statement of debt of said County has been filed with the Clerk to the Board and is open to public inspection. 4. That this order shall take effect upon adoption. The Board thereupon designated the Director of Finance and Administration of the County to make and file with the Clerk the sworn statement of debt of the County which is required by The Local Government Bond Act, as amended, to be filed after the bond order has been introduced. The Board also designated the Director of Finance and Administration to file with the Clerk the statement of total estimated interest which is required by The Local Government Bond Act, as amended, to be filed with the Clerk at the time the bond order is introduced and further directed the Clerk to file a copy of such statement with the Local Government Commission. December 2, 2014 Thereupon, the Director of Finance and Administration of the County caused to be filed with the Clerk, in the presence of the Board, the sworn statement of debt and the statement of total estimated interest as so required. OTIO by Commissioner Steve Johnson to approve the resolution as presented. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 Request from the Finance Department to Adopt a Preliminary Resolution Making Certain Findings and Determinations Regarding Refinancing Outstanding Certificates of Participation: Finance Director Susan Robertson stated in 2006 the County issued Certificates of Participation of $44.8 million of which $29,095,000 is unpaid. They issued $106.6 million in 2008 with $84.6 million unpaid. The average interest rate of the 2006 COPs is 4.88% and 5.04% on the 2008 COPS. Certificates of Participation are not secured by the full faith and credit of the County. They are secured by the asset that was constructed when the funds were borrowed. Market conditions are such that the County can refinance the 2006 outstanding debt at interest rates estimated at 2.70% which will result in a 7.4% net present value savings or an estimated $1.8 million. Only $62.9 million of the 2008 COPS are callable at this time which reduces the amount of the net present value savings to 3.2% or about $2 million. First Tryon advisors believe the market will continue to improve for refunding the 2008 COPs. Robertson is recommending to hold the 2008 until there is approximately 5.5% net present value savings. However, the resolution must be in place to be ready when the market gets to that point. As with general obligation bonds, the interest rate is not set until the date of the sale. A preliminary calendar has scheduled the sale for the third week of February. Because MGSD will not be ready to bid until late summer, it may be possible to include the new issue for Cool Springs at the same time the GO bonds are refunded in February. Commissioner Bowles clarified that the decision at the moment is just to set the framework in place for when the market is ready. Susan Robertson that is correct for the COPS. Chairman Mallory introduced for consideration making certain findings and determinations regarding the refinancing of certain installment contract obligations of the county. Susan Robertson reviewed the resolution. BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Commissioners (the "Board of Commissioners") of the County of Iredell, North Carolina (the "County") as follows: Section L The Board of Commissioners does hereby find and determine as follows: (a) The County has previously entered into an Installment Financing Agreement, dated as of May 1, 2006 (the "2006 Agreement'), between the County and Iredell County Public Facilities Corporation, a North Carolina nonprofit corporation (the "Corporation'), pursuant to which the County has financed certain public school improvements. Pursuant to a Trust Agreement, dated as of May 1, 2006, between the Corporation and the trustee named therein, the Corporation assigned its rights to receive the installment payments from the County under the 2006 Agreement and the trustee executed and delivered $44,765,000 Certificates of Participation (Iredell County School Projects), Series 2006 evidencing proportionate and undivided ownership interests in the installment payments under the 2006 Agreement, which are currently outstanding in the aggregate principal amount of $29,095,000 (the "2006 Certificates"). 9 December 2, 2014 (b) The County has previously entered into a second Installment Financing Agreement, dated as of March I, 2008 (the "2008 Agreement"), between the County and the Corporation, pursuant to which the County has financed certain other public school improvements. Pursuant to a Trust Agreement, dated as of March 1, 2008, between the Corporation and the trustee named therein, the Corporation assigned its rights to receive the installment payments from the County under the 2008 Agreement and the trustee executed and delivered S 111,375,000 Certificates of Participation (Iredell County School Projects), Series 2008 evidencing proportionate and undivided ownership interests in the installment payments under the 2008 Agreement, which are currently outstanding in the aggregate principal amount of $88,135,000 (the "2008 Certificates"). (c) Based upon an economic analysis by First Tryon Advisors, financial advisor to the County, under current market conditions the County would be able to realize significant debt service savings by refinancing all or some portion of its installment payment obligations under the 2006 Agreement and 2008 Agreement. The Board of Commissioners has determined to consider a plan of finance to refinance all or a portion of the County's installment financing obligations under the 2006 Agreement and 2008 Agreement. To carry out such refinancing, the County would enter into a Trust Agreement between the County and a corporate trustee to be determined and issue its Limited Obligation Bonds thereunder to provide funds to prepay its obligations under the 2006 Agreement and 2008 Agreement in accordance with the terms thereof, such refinancing resulting in the prepayment of the 2006 Certificates and 2008 Certificates. Section 2. The Board of Commissioners hereby determines that it is in the County's best interest to proceed at this time with the refinancing and hereby directs the County Manager and the Director of Finance and Administration to proceed with arrangements for the development of appropriate financing documents, selection of underwriters and a trustee and to take such other actions as shall facilitate the financing. Such arrangements may include filing an application with the North Carolina Local Government Commission for approval of the refinancing transaction. Section 3. To the extent a public hearing is determined to be necessary in connection with carrying out the refinancing, the County Manager is hereby authorized to schedule such a hearing on the agenda of the Board of Commissioners and to cause notice of the public hearing to be published at the times and in the manner required by law. Section 4. This resolution shall take effect immediately upon its passage. Chairman Mallory asked when the bonds are put out for bid if the savings projected will retain the same current maturity dates with the savings spread out over the balance of the period and reduce the payments or will the payments remain the same and the maturity date accelerated. Susan Robertson said it would not change the maturity date but the payments will be reduced. The local government commission requires level principal payments with government debt. MOTION by Vice Chairman Marvin Norman to approve the resolution. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 Request from the Register of Deeds to refund $990 for Overpayment of Excise Tax to Dan and Cynthia Carroll: Register of Deeds Matt McCall stated this request is to refund $990 to Dan and Cynthia Carroll for a deed recorded. The deed prepared by a Charlotte law firm on the Carroll's behalf contained a typographical error. At first presentation the deed self-reported an excise tax amount of $2,406.00. N.C.G.S. 105-228.32 says, "A person who presents an instrument for registration must report to the Register of Deeds the amount of tax due. It is the duty of the person presenting the instrument for registration to report the correct amount of tax due." The law firm discovered their mistake several days after recording. Fortunately they made contact within 10 December 2, 2014 the statutory timeframe requesting to correct the error. If this request is granted the firm must record a new instrument reflecting the correct amount of tax due, the document must include the names of the grantors/grantees and the Deed Book and page of the instrument being corrected. They need to inform the Register of Deeds that the instrument being recorded is a corrective instrument and they must give the Register of Deeds a copy of the decision made by the Board of Commissioners. Upon the completion of the necessary steps the Register of Deeds will notify the finance officer that a refund may be issued. There are no provisions for refunding the recording fee of the first instrument and there are no provisions for waving the recording fee of the corrective instrument. Chairman Mallory stated the referenced G.S. 105-228.37 does lay out a process of putting this kind of request before the Board of Commissioners. He asked the County Attorney if there might be a method to meet the intent of the law by accelerating or perhaps delegating to have a more comprehensive hearing in advance for refunds under a certain amount. He asked Bill Pope to look into this. County Attorney Bill Pope agreed to check into it and will contact the Department of Revenue. MOTION by Commissioner Thomas Bowles to approve this refund of 5990 to the Carroll's. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0. Request from Development Services to Approve a Revised Fee Schedule: Development Services Director Lynn Niblock stated, as part of the budget process, the fee schedule was changed in order to mesh with the new permitting software. It was designed to calculate fees based on estimated construction value and to simplify the fee schedule. After several months it became apparent that the estimated value for some construction types were not in line with current local costs. The proposed schedule has addressed that by applying regional modifiers to bring the values more in line with local conditions and it reduces fees to be more in line with the former fee schedule. The proposal reduces some of the individual flat rate fees as well. MOTION by Vice Chairman Marvin Norman to approve. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 Request from Iredell Statesville Schools for Approval of an Application for Lottery Proceeds and BA #18: Kenny Miller stated the school system has been fronting the project cost of an expansion of the CATS facility, which is the Career and Technical School. They have a small amount of capital fund balance to use which will pay for the project and then draw a refund from the lottery proceeds. They built an additional seven classrooms at that site and is currently being used as an overflow for South Iredell's growth. This enables the lottery proceeds to remain active by using the proceeds in an appropriate manor plus keeping the balance low. MOTION by Vice Chairman Marvin Norman to approve budget amendment #18. December 2. 2014 VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 ANNOUNCEMENTS OF VACANCIES OCCURRING ON BOARD & COMMISSIONS Iredell County Board of Health — 2 vacancies APPOINTMENTS TO BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS Advisory Committee for Home and Community Care Block Grant (2 Appointments): Vice Chairman Marvin Norman nominated Anna Rice and Lynda Sloan Chairman Mallory closed the nominations and asked for a unanimous approval of the appointment of Anna Rice and Lynda Sloan. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 Recreation Advisory Committee (3 Appointments) — Commissioner Ken Robertson nominated Pam Christopher, Melissa Jablonski and Kevin Smith. Chairman Mallory closed the nominations and proceeded to voting. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 Zoning Board of Adjustment (2 Appointments) — Commissioner Steve Johnson nominated Robert Dellinger and Nick Carrington. MOTION by Chairman Mallory to close the nominations and appoint Dellinger and Carrington by acclamation. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 Charlotte Regional Partnership (1 Appointment) — Commissioner Ken Robertson nominated Jason Basinger. MOTION by Chairman Mallory to close nominations and appoint Basinger by acclamation. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 Commissioner Steve Johnson asked if the County Manager could present, at the Planning session on Friday, December 12, the top three capital projects that are the most pressing. In the past there have been repeated conversations concerning the jail, expansion issues of ECOM, and EMS quarters. As previously discussed, perhaps the EMS project could be phased to fit existing revenue and revenue streams. He believes one thing to keep in mind is the amount of fund balance and whether or not construction could begin on the jail and simultaneously pay whatever cost are 12 December 2. 2014 associated with the financing along with the existing off -sight housing costs. After that phase, review the existing revenue stream to see what level of debt service it would support and whether the existing revenue stream would also support the operational cost once the facility is constructed. He feels these are the main projects, outside of the schools, that have discussed for some time. Vice Chairman Marvin Norman asked about the final report from the Inmate Reduction Committee. County Manager Ron Smith said the final report has been received and he was planning to present it at the Planning Retreat along with the analysis from the staff. Commissioner Steve Johnson said that could be incorporated with how it would impact the timeframe for the jail. Chairman Mallory asked to look beyond new construction or significant renovations, and review deferred maintenance issues that have been accumulating. In order for the Board to do due diligence, they must start now and develop the Metrix and courses of action to begin prior to the budget process. Commissioner Johnson said that in the past the Board annually set aside money for capital projects. Perhaps when revenue numbers are presented maybe a number could be recommended to rebuild the capital projects fund. UNFINISHED BUSINESS (None) PUBLIC COMMENT (None) NEW BUSINESS County Manager Ron Smith stated that Highway 150 is being considered for widening by NCDOT. This project will span from Mooresville to Catawba County. Iredell County was approached to consider a proposal from NCDOT to contribute to the construction of a multi -use path along the Highway 150. There are significant costs associated with that project. Iredell County's share would be $2.9 million as a base number and does not include right-of-way acquisitions, engineering, etc. This could be a very expensive endeavor, over a five year period, if the Board is interested. He asked if the Board would be willing to designate two members of the Board to meet with Catawba County and the Town of Mooresville. Another option is not participate at all. Commissioner Ken Robertson said he would be willing to go to a meeting but cannot see the County spending millions on a bike path. 13 December 2. 2014 Commissioner Tommy Bowles said the Board needs to stick to what they are statutorily bond to provide to the County and leave the other items alone. There are a lot of other needs right now. County Manager Smith said he has conveyed there has been no inclination by the Board to further this project. Chairman Mallory doesn't believe there is any point in a meeting. Commissioner Bowles said he doesn't want to burn any bridges with any jurisdiction, but the feelings of the Board need to be stated clearly. This does not contribute to any economic development. County Manager Ron Smith said he would convey the message. COUNTY MANAGER'S REPORT (None) ADJOURNMENT: MOT10N by Chairman Mallory to recess the meeting at 8:10 PM until Friday, December 12, 2014, at 8:00 AM at the Iredell County Agricultural Center, 444 Bristol Drive, Statesville, NC. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0. Approval: 14 Clerk to the Board