HomeMy WebLinkAboutJune_17_2014_Regular_MinutesJune 17, 2014
IREDELL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MINUTES
June 17, 2014
The Iredell County Board of Commissioners met on Tuesday, June 17, 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, Veterans Service Officer Brad Stroud, Animal Services Director Brad
Gates, Fire Marshal Garland Cloer, Tax Assessor Melia Miller, Assistant Parks/Rec Director
Michelle Hepler, Health Director Jane Murray, Deputy Bert Connolly, Deputy Darren Campbell
and Clerk to the Board Retha Gaither.
CALL TO ORDER by Chairman Steve Johnson
INVOCATION by Commissioner Gene Houpe
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE led by John Mark Williams, Briggs McElwee and Will
Clontz of Boy Scout Troup 609 at First ARP Church.
ADJUSTMENTS OF THE AGENDA: There were no adjustments to the agenda
MOTION by Commissioner Renee Griffith to accept the agenda as presented.
VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0
Information from Anna Rice, Iredell County Council on Aging, Inc., on the County
Funding Plan for the Home and Community Care Block Grant for Oder Adults: Ms. Anna
Rice of the Iredell County Council on Aging, Inc. addressed the Board. She presented the FY2015
proposed Aging Funding Plan for the Board's review and consideration. She stated current
statistics indicate there are 31,000 people aged 60 and over in Iredell County. In 2025, it is
predicted Iredell will have 47,000 adults that are 60+ in age. The 80's age group is increasing and
expected to double in the next 10 years. The challenge is to provide a range of services for this
growing and diverse group of seniors. The proposed 2015 Aging Funding Plan reflects the work
needed to continue to provide vital programs for Iredell County's older adults, including
transportation, in-home services, respite services, nutrition services, and Senior Centers with
activities and classes. These services are available through the Older American's Act and the Home
and Community Care Block Grant. Older American's Act dollars require a 10% local match and
Iredell County helps the Council on Aging meet this requirement. In doing so, this brings back $9
in federal monies for every dollar contributed by the County.
Chairman Johnson asked what action was needed from the Board.
Rice said the Board needs to approve the plan.
OTIO by Commissioner Gene Houpe to approve the FY2015 Aging Funding Plan.
VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0
PUBLIC HEARINGS
(None)
ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
1
June 17, 2014
Request for the Adoption of the Fiscal Year 2014-2015 Iredell County Budget
Ordinance: County Manager Ron Smith stated, in accordance with G.S. 159-13, the Board is
required to adopt a budget by July 1. The budget ordinance presented tonight is for $167,347,780.
There is an increase of $73,000 since the first presentation on May 6, because of recognizing
additional seized funds to be applied towards the crime lab and future facilities improvement fund.
Commissioner Gene Houpe thanked the County Manager and staff for all the hard work
generating the budget.
MOTION by Vice Chairman Marvin Norman to approve.
VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0
BUDGET ORDINANCE
2014-2015
IREDELL COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA
Be it ordained by the Board of Commissioners of Iredell County, North Carolina:
Section 1. The following amounts are hereby appropriated in the General Fund for the
operation of the County Government and its activities for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2014
and ending June 30, 2015, in accordance with the chart of accounts heretofore established for this
County:
County Commissioners
S 176,741
Administration
404,024
Human Resources
389,712
Elections
579,568
Finance
1,038,930
Tax Administration & Land Records
3,073,572
Information Technology Services
1,406,272
Register of Deeds
593,816
Facility Services
2,903,383
Vehicle Services
334,453
Courts
856,263
Legal
120,000
Economic Development
1,712,290
General Governmental
1,889,630
Special Appropriations
452,763
Sheriffs Department
12,651,841
Crime Lab
410,917
Jail
8,416,532
Animal Services
1,173,701
Emergency Communications
1,809,962
Emergency Medical Service
7,024,646
Fire Marshal
431,037
Emergency Management
179,691
Public Safety Outside Agencies
619,487
Building Standards
1,676,040
Planning & Erosion Control
652,989
Central Permitting
383,116
Cooperative Extension Service
381,952
Health Department
8,304,576
Human Services Building
286,445
Partners Behavioral Healthcare
565,875
Social Services Administration
25,100,865
Veterans Service
123,034
Public Library
3,231,623
Recreation & Parks
1,018,560
School Funding
74,134,320
Debt Service
1,022,710
Transfer to JCPC
37,980
Transfer- Facilities Improvement Fund
528,464
Increase Fund Balance
1,250,000
2
June 17, 2014
Total Expenditures - General Fund $ 167,347,780
Section 2. It is estimated that the following revenues will be available in the General Fund
for Fiscal Year beginning July 1, 2014 and ending June 30, 2015.
Taxes:
Mooresville
Ad Valorem — Current
S 98,907,275
Ad Valorem — Delinquent
2,625,000
Interest on Delinquent Taxes
680,000
Local Option 10 Sales Tax
16,638,820
1983 Local Option 1/2¢ Sales Tax
7,190,600
1986 Local Option 1/2¢ Sales Tax
8,451,700
Municipal Hold Harmless
(2,329,450)
Interest on Investments
50,000
ABC 5¢ Bottle Tax
44,000
Cable TV Tax
482,625
Tax Collection Fees
785,400
Court Facility Fees
250,000
Register of Deeds Fees
1,890,370
Sheriff's Office and Jail Revenues
848,050
Crime Lab Fees
186,500
EMS (911) Fees
4,055,250
Building Standards
2,704,300
Planning
238,315
Health Department Revenues
4,665,525
Social Services Revenues
15,913,123
Recreation Fees
382,980
Other Financing Sources
546,125
Other Revenues
2,141,272
Total Revenues — General Fund $167,347,780
Section 3. There is hereby levied a tax rate of 48.50¢ per One Hundred Dollars Valuation
of property listed for taxes as of January 1, 2014. Total property valuation for ad valorem tax
purposes for the 2014-2015 fiscal year is estimated to be $20,946,200,000. The tax collection rate
for fiscal year 2014-2015 is estimated to be 97.36%.
Section 4. Schedule B taxes shall be levied in accordance with the North Carolina Revenue
Act.
Section 5. All ABC — 5¢ Bottle Tax Revenues received from Code 347-01 of the 2014-
2015 General Fund Revenues are hereby designated to support the County's 2014-2015
appropriation to Partners Behavioral Healthcare designated for alcoholic rehabilitation programs.
Section 6. Capital Outlay funds are appropriated to the two school units as follows:
Iredell-
Mooresville
Statesville
Graded School
Schools
District Total
Restricted Sales Taxes $ 5,652,255
$1,575,945 $ 7,228,200
71/20 Ad Valorem Tax 12,916,965
2,377,973 15,294,938
Additional Ad Valorem Tax 4,282,583 1,223,595 5,506,178
Interest on Build America Bonds 41,747 - 41,747
Lottery Proceeds - 193,494 193,494
Totals $22,893,550 $5,371,007 $28,264,557
Capital Outlay appropriated by the Board of Commissioners is to be expended for the
following categories as contained in G.S. 115C -426(f):
(1) Acquisition of land
(2) Building acquisition and construction
(3) Acquisition or replacement of furnishings and equipment
(4) Acquisition of school buses
June 17, 2014
(5) Acquisition of activity buses
Approved Capital Expenditures for the two school units are as follows:
Iredell-Statesville Schools
Debt Service
1997 General Obligation Bonds
$ 1,090,950
2006 General Obligation Bonds
2,439,000
2006 Certificates of Participation
2,982,406
2008 Certificates of Participation
7,772,890
2008 Installment Financing Refunding
2,623,080
2009 Build America Bond
644,970
2013 COPS Refunding (2003)
1,581,809
2013 USDA REDLG Loan
130,000
Technology Reserve
600,000
Debt Financing Costs
15,000
Total Debt Service
19,880,105
Capital Outlay
General Renovations and Improvements
1,093,445
Roofing
500,000
Paving
315,000
Furniture/Equipment/Technology/Generator
Matching/Safety
1,010,000
Vehicles
95,000
Total Capital Outlay 3,013,445
Total — Iredell Statesville Schools $22,893,550
Mooresville Graded School District
Debt Service
1997 General Obligation Bonds
2006 General Obligation Bonds
2006 Certificates of Participation
2008 Certificates of Participation
2008 Installment Financing Refunding
2013 COPS Refunding (2003)
Debt Financing Costs
Total — Mooresville Graded School District
$ 250,601
637,411
664,875
2,555,800
441,445
814,875
6,000
55,371,007
Deviation of more than 10% from approved Capital Expenditures will require prior
approval from the Iredell County Board of Commissioners.
Section 7. Current Expense funds are appropriated to the two school units as follows:
Iredell-Statesville Schools 532,173,716
Mooresville Graded School District 8,970,580
Total $41,144,296
Section 8. Appropriations are made to Mitchell Community College in the fiscal year
2014-2015 budget as follows:
Current Expense
Capital Outlay
Mitchell Community College
4
53,071,010
731,315
June 17, 2014
Property Purchase Reserve
Debt Service
2006 General Obligation Bonds
2008 General Obligation Bonds
2009 Build America Bond
Total Debt Service
Total — Mitchell Community College
75,000
54,215
427,813
366,114
848,142
$4,725,467
Section 9. In order to carry out their duties, copies of this Budget Ordinance shall be
furnished to the County Commissioners, the Finance Officer, and the Clerk to the Board.
Section 10. The County Manager is hereby authorized to transfer appropriations within a
fund as contained herein under the following conditions:
a) The County Manager or his designee may transfer amounts between objects of expenditure
within a department except that no transfers shall be made into or out of salaries and
benefits without approval by the Board of County Commissioners.
b) The County Manager may transfer amounts up to S10,000 between departments of the
same fund with an official report on such transfer at the next regular meeting of the Board
of Commissioners.
c) The County Manager or his designee may transfer amounts from funds appropriated by the
Board of Commissioners for performance increases and reclassifications into the salary
and benefit accounts of any department.
d) The County Manager or his designee may transfer amounts from funds appropriated by the
Board of Commissioners for Part-time and Overtime Salaries into the salary accounts of
any department.
e) The County Manager may transfer amounts between the departments operated under the
authority of the Sheriff of Iredell County.
f) The County Manager may expend up to $100,000 for emergency needs upon the
chairman's official declaration of a state of emergency.
Section 11. Iredell County officials and employees will be reimbursed at a rate equal to
the IRS mileage reimbursement rate for authorized travel on behalf of the county.
Section 12. The Board of County Commissioners hereby authorizes the Iredell County
Tax Collector to collect taxes or other fees listed on the ad valorem tax bill for the City of
Statesville, Town of Mooresville, Mooresville Graded School District, Town of Harmony, Town
of Love Valley, Town of Troutman, Town of Davidson and any other municipality in compliance
with contracts adopted by the respective governing boards. A charge of one and one-half (1'/z)
percent of all taxes or other fees collected for the taxing districts will be payable to Iredell County
for the collection services.
Section 13. The Board of County Commissioners hereby authorizes the Iredell County
Tax Collector to process taxes received from the NC Department of Revenue's Vehicle Tax
System and distribute those collections net of NCDMV collections fees to the City of Statesville,
Town of Mooresville, Mooresville Graded School District, Town of Harmony, Town of Love
Valley, Town of Troutman, and Town of Davidson.
Section 14. The fiscal year 2014-2015 tax rates for the fire districts are levied as follows:
County -wide
East Alexander
Mt. Mourne
Shepherds
Troutman
7.00¢ per $100 of valuation
6.00¢ per $100 of valuation
4.50¢ per $100 of valuation
7.00¢ per $100 of valuation
6.50¢ per $100 of valuation
5
June 17, 2014
The estimated collection rate for the four established fire districts is as follows: County-
wide 96.39%; East Alexander 94.73%; Mt. Mourne 98.13%; Shepherds 96.87%; Troutman
96.39%.
Fiscal year 2014-2015 property valuations within the fire tax districts for ad valorem tax
purposes are estimated as follows:
Section 15. The following amounts are to be appropriated for the five fire districts for
fiscal year beginning July 1, 2014 and ending June 30, 2015.
County -wide
$ 5,385,285
East Alexander
96,445
Mt. Mourne
600,575
Shepherds
1,005,460
Troutman
1,219,475
It is estimated the following revenues will be available for the five fire tax districts for the
fiscal year beginning July 1, 2014 and ending June 30, 2015.
County -wide Fire Tax District
Current Ad Valorem Taxes
$5,178,685
Delinquent Ad Valorem Taxes
166,000
Interest on Delinquent Taxes
39,500
Investment Earnings
1,100
Appropriated Fund Balance
-
Total Revenue
$5,385,285
East Alexander Fire Tax District
Current Ad Valorem Taxes
Delinquent Ad Valorem Taxes
Interest on Delinquent Taxes
Investment Earnings
$91,410
4,000
1,000
35
Total Revenue $96,445
Mt. Mourne Fire Tax District
Current Ad Valorem Taxes
Delinquent Ad Valorem Taxes
Interest on Delinquent Taxes
Investment Earnings
$587,875
10,200
2,400
100
Total Revenue $600,575
Shepherds Fire Tax District
Current Ad Valorem Taxes $968,630
Delinquent Ad Valorem Taxes 30,000
Interest on Delinquent Taxes 6,730
Investment Earnings 100
Appropriated Fund Balance -
Total Revenue
Troutman Fire Tax District
$1,005,460
Current Ad Valorem Taxes $1,175,975
Delinquent Ad Valorem Taxes 36,000
Interest on Delinquent Taxes 7,200
Investment Earnings 300
6
June 17, 2014
Total Revenue $1,219,475
Section 16. The Board of Commissioners hereby agrees to contract with existing volunteer
fire departments in Iredell County to provide fire protection to the Shepherds, Mt. Mourne,
County -wide, Troutman and East Alexander Fire Districts. The County Finance Officer is
instructed not to release funds to the departments unless an executed contract is on file for each
individual fire department.
Section 17. The Board of Commissioners hereby agrees to contract with Iredell County
Rescue Squad, North Iredell Rescue Squad, Troutman Rescue Squad, Lake Norman Fire &
Rescue, Mooresville Fire & Rescue, Mt. Mourne Fire & Rescue, Shepherds Fire & Rescue, and
South Iredell Fire & Rescue to provide rescue squad services for which they are certified and the
County requires within the boundaries of the Rescue Squad Service District. The County Finance
Officer is instructed not to release funds to the departments unless an executed contract is on file
for each rescue squad.
Section 18. The 911 Emergency Telephone System Fund was established as a self-
supporting special revenue fund on July 1, 1991. Effective January 1, 2008, all revenues of the
Fund are provided by allocations of service fees from the NC 911 Fund. It is estimated the
following revenues will be available for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2014 and ending June 30,
2015.
NC PSAP Funds $491,884
Investment Earnings -
Appropriated Fund Balance 130,836
Total Revenue $622,720
Section 19. The following amount is to be appropriated in the 911 Emergency Telephone
System Fund for the operation and maintenance of the 911 System for the fiscal year 2014-2015.
911 Operations $622,720
Section 20. The Transportation Special Revenue Fund was established on July 1, 2004 to
account for the grants and other special revenue received for the operation of Iredell County
Transportation Service and Iredell Community Transportation. It is estimated that the following
revenues will be available for the fiscal year 2014-2015.
Rural Operating Assistance Grants
$280,000
NC DOT Community Transportation Grant
368,967
Job Access / Reverse Commute Grant
100,000
FTA Elderly Disabled Grant (53 10)
87,500
Transportation Fees
926,193
JARC Passenger Fares
20,000
Elderly Disabled Passenger Fares (53 10)
10,000
Other Passenger Fares
4,000
Rural General Public Passenger Fares
10,000
Iredell County Kidney Dialysis Fares
5,000
ARC Passenger Fares
1,000
Appropriated Fund Balance
-
Total Revenue
S1,812,660
Section 21. The following amounts are to be appropriated for the fiscal year 2014-2015 in
the Transportation Special Revenue Fund for the operation of the Iredell County Area
Transportation Service and Iredell Community Transportation.
Iredell Area Transportation Service
$1,250,507
Community Transportation Administration 562,153
Total Expenditures $1,812,660
Section 22. The JCPC Special Revenue fund is established to account for Juvenile
Delinquency and Prevention Grants received from the State of North Carolina and passed through
Iredell County to outside agencies.
June 17, 2014
It is estimated the following revenues will be available for pass-through grants for the fiscal
year beginning July 1, 2014 and ending June 30, 2015.
Juvenile Crime Prevention Council Grant $386,796
Transfer from General Fund -
Barium Springs Residential Local Match 37,980
Total Revenue $424,776
Appropriations of the fund for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2014 and ending June 30,
2015 are:
Grants to Outside Agencies $409,276
Admin Asst. PT 11,500
Administrative Costs 4,000
Total Expenditures $424,776
Section 23. The Solid Waste Disposal Enterprise Fund was established as of July 1, 1991,
for the operation of a baler facility and sanitary landfill. In accordance with G.S. 153A-292, the
following rates are established for the fiscal year 2014-2015.
Non-residential solid waste
Per ton
$ 35.00
Construction/demolition
Perron
35.00
Electronics Fee (CRT TV's & Monitors)
Per Item
10.00
Non -friable Asbestos
Per ton
35.00
Friable Asbestos
Per ton
110.00
Brush < 8 inch diameter
No charge
No charge
Brush> 8 inch diameter
Per ton
35.00
Pallets
Perron
35.00
Pallet Cleanup Fee
Triple Tipping Fee
Animal carcasses
Per ton
110.00
Passenger vehicle tires @ scales
Per ton
80.00
Heavy equipment tires @ scales
Per ton
150.00
Commercial / demolition transportation
fee from Mooresville Transfer Station
Per ton
10.00
Convenience Sites — Const/Demo
Per Pick Up Load
10.00
Per % Pick Up Load
5.00
NC Solid Waste Tax (all items placed in
the landfill)
Per ton
2.00
Special Handling
Per load
$35.00
*Household Waste Disposal Fee
Per household
$52.00
*Household Waste Disposal Fee (with
elderly exemption)
Per household
$26.00
Household tire fees — Convenience Sites
(once a year, no charge for 5 "off the rim"
Passenger tire
4.00
tires)
Large Tractor tire
8.00
* Household Waste Disposal Fee covers all waste delivered by the homeowner except
construction / demolition and tires.
Household Waste Disposal Fees will be added on all 2014 tax bills for each residence in
Iredell County. "Residence" means property used or, if vacant, designed to be used as a residential
dwelling for one or more persons, whether or not the property is also used for other non -dwelling
purposes excluding commercial uses. The tern includes mobile homes, single family, multi-
family, and other structures used or designed to be used as residential dwellings. There can be
multiple residences within a single structure, such as apartments, duplexes, town houses or
condominiums. The Household Waste Disposal Fee is to be collected in the same manner as
property taxes in accordance with G.S. 153A-293, and it will be collected when delinquent in the
same manner as delinquent real property taxes. It is estimated the following revenues will be
available for the fiscal year July 1, 2014 through June 30, 2015.
Tipping Fees $3,454,500
Household Waste Disposal Fees (Household Availability) 3,500,000
NC Disposal Tax 50,000
NC Electronics Management 10,000
Electronics Management Fees 1,500
NC Abandoned Mobile Home Grant 16,000
8
June 17, 2014
Recycling Sales
Scrap Metal Sales
White Goods Metal Sales
Tire Disposal Reimbursement & Fees
White Goods Reimbursement
Transport Fees — Mooresville Site Commercial Waste
Investment Earnings
Tire Disposal Grants
Twin Oaks Lease
Other Revenues
Appropriated Retained Earnings White Goods
Total Revenue
183,500
157,000
39,000
204,500
50,000
120,000
15,000
16,800
24,000
6,500
70,000
$7,918,300
Section 24. The following amounts are hereby appropriated in the Solid Waste Disposal
Fund for the fiscal year July 1, 2014 — June 30, 2015.
Administration & Operations
Debt Service
Lined Landfill Closure Escrow
Capital Outlay
Transfer to General Fund
Increase Fund Balance
Total Expenditures
$5,239,689
427,563
470,000
1,367,000
135,524
278,524
$7,918,300
Section 25. The EMS Specialty Services Enterprise Fund was established in December,
2011 to account for the operations of a convalescent transport services. Estimated revenues for
the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2014 through June 30, 2015 are estimated as follows:
Convalescent Transport Fees
$1,303,838
Section 26. The following amounts are hereby appropriated in the EMS Specialty
Services Fund for the fiscal year July 1, 2014— June 30, 2015.
Salaries & Benefits
$673,449
Operating Costs
265,810
Capital Outlay
201,400
Fund Balance Assigned — Equipment/Vehicle Replacement
85,894
Transfer to General Fund -Dispatcher & Indirect
77,285
Total $1,303,838
This Ordinance being duly passed and adopted this day of June 2014
IREDELL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Stephen D. Johnson, Chairman
Retha C. Gaither, Clerk to the Board
2014-2015
HEALTH CARE BENEFITS
FUND 066
Section 1. It is estimated the following revenues will be available in the Health Care
Benefits Fund for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2014 and ending June 30, 2015.
Contributions from Employer
9
$8,612,885
June 17, 2014
Contributions from Employees
Contributions from Retirees
Stop Loss Claims Payments
COBRA Credits
Investment Earnings
Appropriated Fund Balance
Total Revenues
917,435
96,080
1,746,000
18,500
2,000
$11,392,900
Section 2. It is estimated the following expenditures will be made in the Health Care
Benefits Fund for the fiscal year beginning July I, 2014 and ending June 30, 2015.
Healthcare Benefits
$935,000
Health Claims Payments
$6,786,300
Prescription Benefits
1,755,000
Claims Administration
678,000
Stop Loss Insurance
1,350,000
Employee Life Insurance
165,000
Employee Health Clinic
42,000
Health Savings Deposits
175,000
Professional Services
7,200
10,958,500
Wellness
Wellness Coordinator Salary & Bencfits
58,955
Operating Costs
3,160
Wellness hrcentives (for FY 15)
250,000
Wellness — HRA, Nursing Services, etc.
115,085
Incentive prizes, Educational Materials
7,200
434,400
Total Expenditures $11,392,900
Adopted this day of June 2014
IREDELL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Stephen D. Johnson, Chairman
Retha C. Gaither, Clerk to the Board
2014-2015
PROPERTY AND LIABILITY SELF INSURANCE
FUND 067
Section 1. It is estimated the following revenues will be available in the Property and
Liability Self Insurance Fund for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2014 and ending June 30, 2015.
Contributions from Other Funds
Appropriated Fund Balance
Total Revenue
$1,115,000
$1,115,000
Section 2. It is estimated the following expenditures will be made in the Property and
Liability Fund for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2014 and ending June 30, 2015.
Insurance Premium
$935,000
Deductible Insurance Pool
170,000
Other Expenses
10,000
Total Revenue
$1,115,000
Adopted this day of June 2014.
10
June 17, 2014
IREDELL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Stephen D. Johnson, Chairman
Retha C. Gaither, Clerk to the Board
2014-2015
WORKERS COMPENSATION SELF INSURANCE
FUND 068
Section 1. It is estimated the following revenues will be available in the Workers
Compensation Self Insurance Fund for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2014 and ending June 30,
2015.
Employer Contribution
Investment Earnings
Appropriated Fund Balance
Total Revenues
$636,600
700
49,100
$686,400
Section 2. It is estimated the following expenditures will be made in the Workers
Compensation Self Insurance Fund for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2014 and ending June 30,
2015.
Workers Compensation Claims
$440,000
Indemnity Payments
125,000
Stop Loss Insurance
96,000
Claims Administration
25,000
Reporting Software Subscription
400
Total Expenditures $686,400
Adopted this day of June 2014.
IREDELL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Stephen D. Johnson, Chairman
Retha C. Gaither, Clerk to the Board
Iredell County, North Carolina
Amended Capital Project Ordinance
Iredell County Facilities Improvements Fund
Be it Ordained by the Board of County Commissioners of Iredell County, North Carolina:
Section 1. Funds for this Amended Capital Project Fund will be provided from the following
Source:
Adopted [ Amended
6/18/2013 Amendment = 6/17/2014
Transfer from General Fund $2,141,417 $528,464 $2,669,881
11
June 17, 2014
Section 2. The following costs shall be paid from this fund:
Adopted Amended
6/18/2013 Amendments 6/17/2014
Building Improvements $2,141,417 $528,464 $2,669,881
Section 3. This Capital Project Fund shall continue until the projects are complete.
Section 4. Payments from this Capital Project Fund shall be authorized by the County
Manager or his designee.
Section 5. The County Manager is authorized to allocate funds between priority
improvements as needed.
Section 6. This Amended project is effective upon adoption.
Adopted this day of June, 2014.
IREDELL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Stephen D. Johnson, Chairman
Retha C. Gaither, Clerk to the Board
Request from the Finance Department to Approve BA #37 to Appropriate Insurance
Proceeds: Finance Director Susan Robertson said there had been several accidents this year
involving county equipment and vehicles. This budget amendment will recognize the $22,000 in
general fund proceeds that have been received, $16,794 for ICATS; $5,338 for Solid Waste; and
$1,337 for EMS.
MOTION by Commissioner Renee Griffith to approve BA #37.
VOTING: Ayes - 5; Nays - 0.
Budget Amendment
Fiscal Year 2013-14
BA#37 To appropriate insurance proceeds back to the departments where repairs were
6/17/2014 necessary for the Fiscal Year 2013-2014
Account # I Current Change Amended
12
General Fund
-
(22,052)
(22,052)
104045 485200
Insurance Proceeds
105436 532501
Assessor - M&R - Equip
4,200
1,186
5,386
105436 532502
Assessor - M&R - Autos
2,000
5,707
7,707
105455 532502
Facility Svcs - M&R - Bldgs
4,320
1,096
5,416
10545530 532610
Facility Svcs Bldg - M&R - Bldg
51,000
1,000
52,000
10545574 532610
Library Bldg - M&R - Bldgs
8,000
5,285
13,285
105510 532502
Sheriff - M&R - Autos
88,500
2,118
90,618
105520 532502
Jail - M&R - Autos
12,029
2,137
14,166
105542 532502
EMS - M&R - Autos
32,000
1,469
33,469
105563 532502
Inspections - M&R - Autos
5,000
2,054
(16,794)
7,054
(16,794)
Transportation
Fund
374045 485200
Insurance Proceeds
12
June 17, 2014
375622 532502 1 ICATS - M&R - Autos 1 40,000 I 16,794 I 56,794
Solid Waste Fund
To appropriate an additional allocation of Crisis Intervention funds in the DSS
department
(5,338)
(5,338)
524750 485200
Insurance Proceeds
525751 532500
Statesville - M&R - Bldgs
417,175
85
417,260
525752 532500
Mooresville - M&R - Bldgs
383,007
-
5,253
(1,337)
388,260
(1,337)
EMS SSD Fund
574045 485200
Insurance Proceeds
575542 532502
EMS SSD - M&R - Autos
8,000
1,337
9,337
Request from the Department of Social Services to Approve BA #38 to Recognize
Additional Allocations: DSS Director Yvette Smith said the department received some additional
funding in Crisis Intervention Program in the amount of $19,479. She is asking the board's
approval of the budget amendment to recognize these funds.
OTION by Vice Chairman Marvin Norman to approve BA #38.
VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0.
Budget Amendment
Fiscal Year 2013-14
BA#38
6/17/2014
To appropriate an additional allocation of Crisis Intervention funds in the DSS
department
Account #
program
Current
Chane
Amended
General Fund
(395,844)
395,844
(19,479)
19,479
(415,323)
415,323
104630 450022
105630 554201
Crisis Intervention Revenue
Crisis Intervention Expense
Request from Animal Services to Approve BA #39 to Use $2,756 in Donated Funds
for 4 Paws Spay/Neuter Program: Animal Services Director Brad Gates said this is the same
project approved on April 1 and this request is to approve funds received from local donors. Since
the last request the shelter has altered 63 animals on the spay/neuter program. The new funds will
continue the life of this program.
OTIO by Commissioner Ken Robertson to approve BA #39.
VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0
Budget Amendment
Fiscal Year 2013-14
BA#39
To appropriate donations in the Animal Services budget for the Spay/Neuter
6/17/2014
program
Account #
Current
Chane
Amended
General
Fund
(78)
(78)
104532 471428
Fundraising Revenue
104532 481202
Donations
-
(2,361)
(2,361)
104532 481251
Donations - Spay/Neuter
(317)
105532 535050
Supplies - Donated Funds
5,800
2,756
8,556
Request from Animal Services to Approve BA #40 to Use $2,512 in PetSmart
Adoption Reward Funds for Advertising Animal Services Events: Animal Services Director
Brad Gates said they have received $2,512 in donated funds. He is requesting this budget
amendment to place those funds into the advertising budget in order to advertise special events
and services, including adoptable animals and special adoptive needs animals.
MOTIO by Commissioner Ken Robertson to approve BA #40.
VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0
13
June 17, 2014
Budget Amendment
Fiscal Year 2013-14
BA#40
6/17/2014
To appropriate PetSmart Adoption Rewards in the Animal Services budget
for advertising.
Account #
I
Current
Chane
Amended
General Fund
-
1,000
(2,512)
2,512
(2,512)
3,512
104532 481246
105532 530000
PetSmart Adoption Rewards
Advertising
Request from the Finance Department to Approve BA #41 for Four Iredell-Statesville
Schools Lottery Applications: Finance Director Susan Robertson stated Dr. Kenny Miller
submitted four applications for lottery proceeds: 1) to reimburse ISS for the final payment to the
Town of Mooresville for water/sewer to Woodland Heights, 2) to reimburse $66,000 for a paving
project at Lake Norman High School, 3) to reimburse $61,800 for a paving project at Cloverleaf,
and 4) to reimburse $204,950 for debt service to Energy United for mechanical system controls
update. These reimbursements are 100% by lottery proceeds.
MOTION by Commissioner Renee Griffith to approve BA #41.
VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0
Budget Amendment
Fiscal Year 2013-14
BA#41 To record anticipated Lottery Proceeds and appropriate the funds to reimburse
Iredell-Statesville Schools for I) Woodland Heights final installment for
6/17/2014 water/sewer $113,099 2) LNHS Paving $66,065, 3) Cloverleaf Paving $61,800, 4)
EU Debt payment for mechanical systems upgrades $204,950.
Account # Current Change Amended
General Fund
104700 457101 Lottery Proceeds - Iredell-Statesville (1,040,996) (445,914) (1,486,910)
105700 560004 Iredell-Statesville - Lottery 1.448244 445.914 1.894.158
Request from the Finance Department to Approve the Amended Project Ordinance
for the WIHS HVAC Project and to Appropriate Fees: Finance Director Susan Robertson
said this request is to approve the capital project ordinance for the WINS HVAC project. This is
funding of $1.3 million from the REDLG loan proceeds from USDA through Energy United. In
addition ISS is contributing $303,000 for the project. The cost for general construction is
$1,560,308; architect fees are $20,000; closing costs are $3,017; and contingency of $20,000.
OTION by Gene Houpe to approve the amendment for the project ordinance for the
WINS HVAC.
VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0
Iredell County, North Carolina
Amended Capital Project Ordinance
West Iredell High School - HVAC Project
Be it Ordained by the Board of County Commissioners of Iredell County, North Carolina:
Original 6/17/14 Amended
Ordinance Amendment Ordinance
Section 1. Funds for this Capital Project Fund will be provided from the
following sources:
Financing Proceeds $ 1,300,000
Contribution from ISS 303.32:
1,300,000
303.325
$ 1,603,325 $ - S 1,603,325
Section 2. The following costs for the West ]redell High School projects
shall be paid by this fund.
General Construction $ 1,580,308 (20,000) S 1,560,308
Architect Fees 20,000 20,000
14
June 17, 2014
Contingency 20,000 20,000
Closing costs 3,017 3,017
S 1,603,325 S S 1,603.325
Section 3. This Capital Project Fund shall continue until the projects are complete.
Section 4. Transfers between line items shall only be made upon formal action by the Iredell-Statesville
Board of Education and such action shall be reported to the Iredell County Board of
Commissioners at its next regularly scheduled meeting.
Section 5. Payments from this Capital Project Fund shall be authorized by the County
Manager or his designee.
Request from the Finance Department to Compensation Claims Solutions for a
Three -Year Contract: Finance Director Susan Robertson is requesting approval of a three-year
contract with Compensation Claims Solutions. They are a third party administrator for the self-
insured worker's compensation fund. The price will be $23,000 for FY15. It will increase to
$25,000 for FY16/17. They have done very well handling claims since becoming self-insured.
Based on the 4% annual increase on the last bid for fully insured, the County has saved $3.8
million.
OTIO by Vice Chairman Marvin Norman to approve.
VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0
Presentation of Resolutions Calling for a GO Bond Referendum by Iredell Statesville
Schools, Mooresville Graded Schools and Mitchell Community College: County Manager Ron
Smith said the discussion prior to this meeting was including the jail project in this same request.
However, with a strong recommendation from the Local Government Commission, the jail has
been removed from consideration. Based on that, the following memo has been revised to remove
the jail. No board action will be needed on the presentations, but action is necessary on the next
item.
Iredell-Statesville Schools — Board of Education Chairman Dr. David Cash addressed the
Board. On behalf of ISS, he presented a resolution calling for a GO Bond Referendum. He
expressed thanks to Chairman Johnson and Vice Chairman Norman for serving on the task force
that reviewed the needs and made recommendations for the school systems. They have completed
several smaller projects and there are five proposed bond projects.
ISS Superintendent Brady Johnson stated, in conjunction with the task force and staff
reviews, there are five projects that have been identified: 1) Cool Springs Elementary which is
estimated at a cost of $13.5 million. The renovations would increase the seat capacity by 200
students. 2) North Iredell High School project is an addition and renovation of the building that
houses the old gym and auditorium. This project is estimated at $9.5 million. The seat capacity
will increase by 150 students. 3) South Iredell High School is a similar project. North and South
are mirror images of each other and were built in 1966. The auditorium would be razed, replaced
and additional classrooms would be added. The seat capacity will increase by 150. South Iredell
is a little more in need. The IB program was placed at South and has attracted students from all
over the County. Currently the campus has one mega -unit, one quad, and during the summer six
classrooms will be added to the Career Academy in Troutman. Those six classrooms are designed
to handle the overload at South Iredell HS. 4) Northview IB School and Statesville Middle School
is a combination project. The IB Program was opened five years ago. The Statesville IB campus
is located on the Northview campus which was a K-2 school. The school is overcrowded with a
number of mobile units. It does not have an auditorium or gym which means students are bused to
the YMCA, daily, for PE classes. The proposal is to move the current Statesville Middle School
into a new facility on the campus of Third Creek Elementary School. The new Statesville Middle
School will have a capacity of 650 seats. Old Statesville Middle will be renovated and students
from Northview will be moved to the newly renovated school. The proposal for Northview is
minor renovations and move the alternative school from Monticello to Northview. The Monticello
campus could then be put on the market. 5) A similar project is in the southern end between Mount
Mourne IB and Brawley Middle School. The proposal is to move the current Brawley Middle to a
new school on the campus of Woodland Heights. Then renovate the current Brawley Middle and
move the IB school from Mount Mourne into Brawley Middle. The current Mount Mourne
15
June 17, 2014
property could be available for another choice program or sell. Both projects are estimated at $23.5
million. The total is $79.5 million.
Kenny Miller, from ISS, clarified one item about the NIRS and SIHS projects. He said the
footprint of the auditoriums will increase and will include replacing the canopies.
Commissioner Renee Griffith asked if Cool Springs was designated on the last bond.
Miller said no. The last bond that was passed was Phase I. It was a bond referendum and
COPS (Certificate of Participation) which was completed on time and on budget. Phase 11 was
entirely under COPS. Phase III was never funded which included Cool Springs and Union Grove.
Union Grove was funded by paying off a previous debt service, but not Cool Springs.
Commissioner Griffith asked about issues of moving the alternative school's teenage
students into the Northview campus which was a K-2 school.
Miller said the alternative school has approximately 100 students which can vary daily.
The alternative school does not need a gym and the small cafeteria would be adequate.
Commissioner Griffith stated projects two and three on the list does not appear to have
been on the radar for the task force.
Miller said they were on the radar in Phase V. There were Phases IV, V and VI. Phase IV
was a number of smaller, maintenance related upgrades. There was also a technology phase.
However, since then they have received a $20 million grant for technology. They completed the
REDLG project and used several million dollars in lottery funds for maintenance which meant
they could move some projects up that were originally three years away. Most projects in Phase
IV are complete.
Commissioner Ken Robertson stated he had several questions, some of which came from
citizens. He said some have questioned the wisdom of spending this much money on a bond now
because if student population increases there would be no money for expansion for a growing
population. What is the total of proposed additional seats?
Brady Johnson said the new Statesville Middle will have a capacity of 650. The Mount
Mourne/Brawley project will have a capacity of 800 seats.
Miller said Northview IB has about 500 students moving into the Statesville Middle
campus with a capacity of 680. There are approximately 420 Statesville Middle that will move to
the new campus with a capacity of 650, which means there will be approximately 360+ new seats.
He said the middle school population is the area of concern at the moment.
Commissioner Robertson stated ISS proposes $47 million to renovate these existing
schools to house IB programs. Why do you have to renovate to house an IB program?
Brady Johnson said the IB program is much more than curriculum. Those programs require
additional staff development for the teachers. They do not have the resources to open an IB
program and do training with extra materials that are required in multi sites all over the county.
They have chosen to have a Statesville Campus and a Mooresville Campus. The South Iredell
diploma program is in the middle.
Miller said there isn't a lot of renovation needed and will be done internally with
reoccurring capital. It is mainly painting, upgrades, and fix -ups.
Commissioner Robertson asked if the $23.5 million is primarily the cost of new
construction and why seats are being added if student population is decreasing.
Brady Johnson stated when talking about building schools it is necessary to look years
ahead. He believes Iredell County is poised to see the same growth as before the recession which
was 900 students per year. There are currently four charter schools in the county that serve 1,600
students. At any moment one of those schools could close and those students would then return to
the public system. He added that public schools now must be ready to be competitive and be able
to market their schools.
16
June 17, 2014
Commissioner Robertson asked if a charter school building could be bought, if the school
closes.
Brady Johnson said it may be possible and that decision would be brought before the Board
of Commissioners. However, it is getting a little more complicated because there are some charter
schools that are for profit. Those buildings are owned by investors.
Miller said there are no charter schools scheduled to open during the next school year. The
State is estimating a potential student growth of 165, but the State is usually low. In addition there
are 2,000 housing units just inside the Mooresville City limits that are not in Mooresville Graded
that are on the books right now. This does not include Perth Church Road and other areas.
Commissioner Robertson stated Mitchell Community College has a program where a lot
of high school seniors can earn college credits. Is that not relieving some of the pressure at the
high school level?
Brady Johnson said it does some. There are approximately 525 students in the early college
program. There are two early colleges, one is located on the campus of Statesville High School
and the other is located on the campus of Mitchell Community College. However, Statesville High
School, South Iredell High School, and Lake Norman High School are all currently at or over
capacity.
Commissioner Robertson stated that the public is being told the future is science,
technology, engineering, and math. However, this bond has two different auditoriums for ISS,
which leads one to think about music, acting, dancing, etc. Wouldn't this money be better spent
for chemistry/physics labs and agricultural programs?
Brady Johnson believes there needs to be a balance for a holistic experience. They built
science laboratories at NIHS and SIHS in 2001. Statesville High School added additional science
classrooms in the new portion of their renovation in 2006. In 2007 and 2009 further renovations
at NIHS and SIHS added science classrooms when the new gyms were built.
Miller said science labs were added to West Iredell High School as well. He said the
auditoriums have been pushed aside for a long time. The State recommends an auditorium should
be large enough to seat half of the student population.
Commissioner Robertson asked if the addition of 200 more students renders the existing
auditorium worthless.
Miller said both of the two auditoriums have structural issues. North High's auditorium is
settling and the doors no longer work correctly. Engineers say it is not dangerous but correcting
the problem would cost more than to raze and replace. South High's has a crack in the foundation.
It will not fall but repairs would be costly.
Commissioner Robertson asked how they know the construction cost estimates are in-line
with the standard best practice.
Miller said no one can predict but they have a good track record. Rob Jackson, Construction
Manager, has a decade of experience. His estimates have been very good. They try to look at
escalation between plans and actual building.
Chairman Johnson said the DPI publishes estimations of construction costs. They suggest
a 5% per year for escalation.
Commissioner Robertson stated charter schools don't ask for bonds to build and renovate
their buildings. Why does the public school system?
Brady Johnson said that it is the way the State has chosen to structure the charter schools.
Charter schools have a great deal of flexibility that public schools do not. Charter schools are not
required to have athletic programs, participate in child nutrition, nor provide transportation. Money
they save in those areas can be used elsewhere. Iredell County actually has a for-profit charter
school that is traded on the stock exchange. Public schools are at the mercy of the tax payers and
the county commissioners when it comes to building.
17
June 17, 2014
Commissioner Robertson stated that the list shows HVAC upgrades and roofs.
Miller said Cool Springs' HVAC is included in the complete process, because if a building
is razed HVAC will have to be replaced. He said they have been replacing roofs with annual
reoccurring capital.
Commissioner Robertson asked the age of Cool Springs' building.
Miller said the oldest portions were built pre -40s. The later section was in late 80s or early
90s and all will remain intact.
Commissioner Robertson said the promise of renovations at Cool Springs and Mooresville
Senior was left off of the previous bond. Why spend money on promises that wasn't kept on
previous bonds.
Miller said it was in phases. Phase I was GO bonds and COPS. Phase II was COPS and
Phase III was never funded.
Commissioner Robertson quoted from an email he received... "Does any of this money go
to hire more staff in the central office?" Also, "If you fired half of the staff in central office could
we eliminate the need for the bond?"
Brady Johnson said no to both questions.
Miller said if all staff was fired there still would not be enough to pay for the bond.
Commissioner Robertson said everyone agrees the economy is in difficult shape.
Historically there have been COPs or a GO about every three years. However, it has been six years
since the last one. The economy is still sluggish. Can you wait another four years?
Brady Johnson said it would not be wise. He believes construction cost rise daily. Just on
Cool Springs alone, the estimated cost has risen $1 million in six years. While some of the cases
are not dangerous to students, there are situations that are vulnerable. Example, Cool Springs
Elementary is an open campus. The mobile units have flimsy locks and can be breached easily.
Also, the mobile units are designed to be temporary fixes to long term problems. They depreciate
rapidly and not as efficient as a brick/mortar classroom. The covered walkways at North and South
were built in 1966 and are literally crumbling. He stated that even if the requests are approved
tonight it will be at least two years before these improvements are ready for children to move into.
Commissioner Robertson stated this is another question asked of him. How much of this
bond is needed to implement the Common Core curriculum?
Brady Johnson said not one penny.
Commissioner Robertson asked how long the facilities task force had been meeting prior
to making these recommendations.
Miller said the actual task force finished two years ago. One year ago this list was presented
to the Board. The task force was called back together last month to update the needs and plans. As
they move forward, the task force will reconvene to review the next steps.
Commissioner Robertson asked if this task force was only for Iredell Statesville or for both
school systems.
Miller said it involved Mooresville Graded and Iredell Statesville. At the time Mitchell was
not in the initial planning part but they are included from this point forward.
Commissioner Robertson stated Chairman Johnson and Vice Chairman Norman served on
that committee. He asked if any other members were present here tonight and how many were on
the task force.
Miller said that is correct and four other members were present at the meeting. There were
14 members altogether.
18
NIRS.
June 17, 2014
Commissioner Griffith asked the total enrollment and the capacity of the auditorium at
Miller said 1,100 and the auditorium seats 470.
Commissioner Gene Houpe asked if everyone had been proactive years ago with Lake
Norman, wouldn't it have been better to make the footprint larger in anticipation of growth.
Miller said yes he agrees. The building was built for 1,200 and when it opened enrollment
was almost 1,200. Within a year enrollment was 1,300-1,400 and today it is close to 1,900.
Commissioner Houpe feels being proactive is a better use of tax payer's dollars and save
more money in the long -run. For instance with the jail, if a little over $1 million more had been
spent on the footprint and be able to build additional floors it would have saved money because
now a new jail will be $20 million.
Brady Johnson said they could add classrooms to Lake Norman with mobile units, but it
would not fix the problem. He agrees it is prudent to expand a footprint of a school with the future
in mind.
Chairman Johnson stated in the discussion of 1996 and 2006 one would think there was no
such thing as a limited resource, but there was a limited resource. He agrees with Brady Johnson,
that once the core facility of any building becomes stressed, there is little to remedy the problem.
As for the jail, additional cells can be added but it remains that 850 meals are being prepared in
the same space that was built for a fraction of the number. Lake Norman was built on the
recommendation of the school board on the recognition there was a limited resource. There is some
logic on limiting the size of the school because of ancillary operation costs.
Miller said yes there is an upper limit due to operation costs.
Comr
nssioner rioupe stressea mat ne oenevcs Demg proactive is oener mar
9
Igr�lting A
for
Iredell- SLnlesviIleSchools Learning
Iredell-StutesviIIC Schools District - Resolution
I ne I I cdcll-s I a IQ,t-ilto Schools District Board of ISduct.uon hereby requests that the Board
of ConiIII "movers of lmdeI HCounty adopt an 0 1 d C I Lott honzine g nuaI of) ligtwon bonds of
the Count% mtd the callint, of a relerendum thereon for 579.500.000. at which such order
gill lie submited to the qualified voters of Iredell C ousts. 1 he que,tion to lie put to a note
S11,111 be sihslantioll. ;Lo lollowv:
-Shall the oder adopted on June 9"i 2014, authorizing not exceeding
S79.�00.000 School Bolick of thr Courih of Imdell. North Carolnm. for the
purpose of providing funds, toeeihcr kith and other available lunch ton erecting
additional sehool buildings. reinodaling, cnlargine and rccons[ructine esistimz,
school buildin providing necc1str� utiliues and anJuuin> necessary land and
equipment theraline in order to provide additional school facilities lorthe
h dcll Staten dle School IJistrict in the County of hedell. and authorizine, the
let -c of rases in ;m nnxxim stdiieient to pay the principal of and the interest on
said bonds be approved'..
Adopted on .hme 9.3014
C n.uun.m. Bomd of Cducalum Date
19
being reactive.
June 17, 2014
I
Icgr7lting A
��� for
fiedelI-steles i Ile schools Learning
II edell-states, iIle Schools DistI ict
2014 Proposed Bond Projects
I'n�cct I
Cool Springy 17emcla,
c $13500D00
hoiccu 22
MI IS AndillIM11I11Af19 59500.000
P,o
SI1 f.S Audltoriunr.-ArG 59500.000
Ili oiect 4
\orill' Ill' 13 Vllddl- 'lliIOOl llallici 111 \fiddle School 5 7500.000
Vele SMS con:Irt 11111 on tlla campus of Thud C izck 11ancntan
Project 5
VIc A1oume 113 Vfiddle School IBlaole, Afiddle Sohool 523500.000
Ve¢ B%1IS conetmctcd on the campus of l6'oo11land 11<11111 Iaementa, c
'101AL 579,510,000
Mooresville Graded School District — Roger Hiatt, Mooresville Graded School Board,
addressed the Board. He thanked them for past support and asked for continued support moving
forward.
Mooresville Graded School District Superintendent Dr. Mark Edwards recognized four
additional Board members in attendance. He said the first recommendation is two major projects
related to the request for a GO bond. The first is Mooresville High School at $40 million. It
includes two urgent matters that are safety issues with deterioration of the auditorium and
gymnasium. The auditorium and gym were built when the enrollment was 600-800 students but
they anticipate the enrollment in 2017/2018 to be 2,200-2,400. He said in the area of East
Mooresville Intermediate School there are two different developments that could result in several
hundred new homes and it is estimated there will be 2.3 children per household. The other project
is a new middle school with enrollment estimated at 1,200-1,400. DPI is projecting significant
growth for MGSD and DPI is usually low. The high school project includes several major parts.
The first is the auditorium and gym. There is only one auditorium in Mooresville and it serves all
of the schools. The projected cost is $9.6 million with a programing capacity of 1,800. He said
they called DPI for their recommendation. DPI said 50% of student enrollment, but if it is a one
auditorium community, then build according to the needs. The gym will cost $8.8 million. The
gym and auditorium are used for classroom programing. They have a fine arts program, 220 band
members, 120+ member choral program, ROTC program, and drama. There are some cosmetic
repairs, i.e. paint in all classrooms, replace ceiling grids and tiles, damaged floors, asbestos
abatement, plumbing, engineering systems, restrooms, electrical, HVAC and duct work. Engineers
have stated both buildings need to be replaced as soon as possible. The middle school project
would not be completed until 2020 but project enrollment will continue to increase. Dr. Edwards
said, after serving on the state board, that during the past year several charter schools closed for
not meeting their responsibilities to students and tax payers. Charter schools do not have to comply
with state standards for their facilities. He said six years ago, a second high school was mentioned.
However, they made some program changes to use the old middle school, Magnolia Annex, as a
double footprint for the high school. Part of the plan is to move the programing at NF Woods over
to the Magnolia campus which will bring efficiencies. Today students are being transported several
times a day, by bus, to NF Woods which presents issues with extra fuel and lost instructional time.
The move will bring an estimated savings of $100,000 per year in operational costs plus gain
instructional time. Edwards said they have spent $500,000 in repairs on the auditorium over the
last ten years with $124,000 for the roof. He believes there is a direct correlation between quality
of life, good education, crime and safety. Over the last six years, Mooresville has seen $3.5 million
in education tourism. Students have received $15.5 million in scholarships over the last five years.
MGSD's graduation rate was 93.4% which was second in the State, African-American students'
graduation rate was 98% which was number one in the State and the graduation rate of students
from poverty at 91 % was third in the State.
20
June 17, 2014
Chairman Johnson said his research states an auditorium should be 1/3 to 1/2 the average
daily membership. The formula recommends eight square feet per student along with a list of
additional square footage for various functions in the auditorium. Mooresville is asking for 45,000
square feet for the auditorium. His figures with the current student population along with the higher
range of all recommendations for other activities only brought the auditorium to 30,000 square
feet. Even with the projected enrollment at 2,400 and increasing the numbers for the other
activities, it still estimates at 30,000 square feet. He read directly from DPI and the State Board of
Education, "Large joint school/community use auditoriums are discouraged. Large auditoriums
are much more costly per square foot due to increase volume and structural span and special
building code requirements. It is generally believed that multiple performances to smaller groups
are more successful than single performances to a large group." Johnson asked an engineer about
this issue. The engineer said the load factor on the roof span goes into another class of construction
where the walls and footing have to be stronger. Generally speaking any auditorium over the
capacity of 1,000 will dramatically increase the cost per square foot. Johnson asked for justification
for the larger auditorium request. MacGray Auditorium at Statesville High School was built larger
because the City wanted to use it and therefore the City of Statesville contributed money to the
construction. He feels if Mooresville plans to use it then they should contribute to the construction.
He asked if it was equitable for the County to pay for it through the school fund.
Edwards said two proposals were presented. One for ISS and one for MGSD with very
little appreciable cost difference. The auditoriums for ISS were $9 million and the Mooresville
auditorium is $9.6 million. Mooresville High School will be serving 2,200-2,400 students and
Iredell-Statesville will serve approximately 1,000-1,200. The reason for a larger building is based
on program needs and classroom space. One item that was removed from the proposal was a
parking area. Another desired item that is not included is a cross -walk to the Magnolia Annex. He
has met with Town of Mooresville officials and talked with them about support.
Chairman Johnson stated the Board is being asked to put $40 million on a ballot. If the
Board votes in favor, $40 million will be on the bond. If someone decides to contribute money,
then it could be used to help pay the debt. However, there would be no incentive to give if the tax
payers have already been asked for $40 million. He doesn't feel there is a comparison between the
projects. MGSD has $2.2 million for site preparation and between the renovation and the
gym/auditorium there is $6.7 million for project allowance which is unheard of.
Edwards said the project allowance includes the site survey, architect and engineer,
asbestos abatement alone is going to be significant, kitchen equipment including loose furniture,
and 5% contingency. This is the standard recommendation from the American Education
Architectural Design. It is also a standard recommendation related to projects where there is
significant demolition. The ground around the auditorium is soft which will require significant
costs. Edwards said he stands by his recommendation.
Chairman Johnson disagrees that a 20% project allowance is specific detail. He believes
the request for this larger auditorium is not necessary for the operation of the school. This project
has driven the whole discussion, up to this point, on whether there should be a bond at all. ISS has
been more concerned about current expense, but if a bond is going to be put on the ballot then they
would bring their projects forwarded. Typically items are funded on the ADM (Average Daily
Membership) basis. In order to minimize the inequity of the school bond the Board must make
sure the project is reasonable. MGSD has 22% of the students and requesting 45% of the money.
If the project could be reduced to be more reasonable in regard to equity and reduce the amount of
indebtedness it would be much better for the tax payers.
Edwards believes it is reasonable. Three auditoriums have been presented and the cost
difference is only $600,000. He said this is the request to meet the needs of the students.
Commissioner Houpe stated Lake Norman High School was almost to capacity within a
year of construction. He understands Chairman Johnson's concerns. He feels the Board should be
proactive in a project in the south end of the county based on history. He feels $40 million is a
high end of the realm. He stated some projects from the last bond were cancelled because of the
economy. The Board will still be in control in the future if the economy slipped again. The projects
are done in phases which can be stopped or slowed. He stated if the bond is put on the ballot and
voters choose to vote for it, he is asking all school systems to hold costs down and use only the
money they need to use. In his opinion the voters have the right to decide. He believes, with the
history of growth in the south end of the County, the request from MGSD is probably a fair
assessment.
21
June 17, 2014
Commissioner Robertson stated the middle school project will probably give an additional
1,200-1,400 students. He asked if seats would be gained with the work at Mooresville Senior High
School and eliminating NF Woods.
Edwards said by redesigning the CTE (Career & Technical Education) Programing, there
is space at the Magnolia Annex that will need work, but they will gain functional program space.
It is not a box with 25 seats, but they will gain more functionality and costs efficiencies.
Commissioner Robertson asked if this project would enable them to actually increase the
number of students at the high school.
Edwards said yes. He believes the footprint will max at 2,400 and they could serve up to
2,400 students in this facility.
Commissioner Robertson asked if the students who participated in the pre -college program
relieved any of the pressures to provide classroom seats.
Edwards said there were 27 students that participated. He has been in discussion with
Mitchell about expanding that program. MGSD and MCC have shared facilities. He said the
recommendation for sharing facilities results in cost efficiencies. The auditorium and gym will be
shared facilities.
Commissioner Robertson said MCC was thinking of an auditorium for Mooresville. He
asked if the auditorium would be available to MCC.
Edwards yes. They have a strong relationship with MCC. They also have a positive
relationship with the Town of Mooresville. They have had several conversations with the Town
asking for their help with parking.
Commissioner Robertson asked about science, technology, engineering, and math. The
STEM study will enable students to get a good paying job while auditoriums are for singing,
dancing, and/or acting which is not a huge industry here. He asked if there is any sacrifice in STEM
in order to build the auditorium.
Edwards said no. He said an investment made years ago has made large dividends when
they moved into their digital conversion along with science, technology, math and on-line
resources related to science. Last year the pass rate for biology for all students was 95%. One
student received a large scholarship to North Carolina State University in Math and Science. In
2002 they added science space but they use a lot of virtual labs which helps to involve more
students and has been successful.
Commissioner Robertson stated charter schools don't ask for money but MGSD does. He
asked if a charter school were to close and the building was available for purchase then would it
be usable for the public school system.
Edwards said charter schools do not have to meet the same specifications/standards from
DPI. He does not know if the standards are higher or lower but believes they are built so they could
be converted into office space or some other type of office function.
Commissioner Griffith stated education requirements, because it is an educational building,
stem from the zoning and regulations that are put out by the building department. What they are
referring to is the added programing space that a charter school does not have. The buildings are
built for specific codes for education purposes. The building could be used for other educational
purposes. However, if a public school takes over the building space may not be there for the
programs they are required to house.
Commissioner Robertson asked why they need a new gym.
Edwards said the one concrete beam which is the sole source of the foundation of the gym
would not meet code today. The gym was built when the school capacity was 600-800. They have
a wide range of physical and health education programing for that space. They also have one of
the largest ROTC programs in the country which is continuing to grow and they use the gym.
22
June 17, 2014
Commissioner Robertson reiterated that the questions he is asking are questions that have
been asked of him. He asked why HVAC was included. Why hadn't they maintained so they
wouldn't have to include this on the bond? Did you take maintenance money to buy laptops instead
of maintaining the buildings?
Edwards said they did use current expense money to pay for the digital conversion. They
took approximately $180-$200 per student on a lease purchase basis. They stopped buying text
books. They used capital money for the infrastructure which is allowed and in fact encouraged by
state standards. Edwards said the digital footprint has translated to higher achievement, higher
graduation rates, more scholarships and articles by The New York Times and Fox News reporting
MGSD as one of the best in the nation.
Commissioner Robertson asked if maintenance funds were diverted to pay for laptops.
Edwards said no. They have replaced a chiller at Mooresville High School. They have spent
a grand total of $667,000 on Mooresville High School on preventive maintenance over the past
several years.
Commissioner Robertson stated an engineering firm measured the maximum deflection of
the beam under the gym while a basketball game was in action. He asked what the deflection of
that particular floor beam was.
Edward said it was just over a seven inch deflection. They have put perimeters on student
behavior and limit the number of people who enter. The seven inch deflection is alarming and is a
safety issue.
Commissioner Robertson stated it costs a lot more money to demolish, remove debris,
and/or renovate than it does to start anew. Since some parts of the complex is over 60 years old,
why don't they just walk away and find new property and build all new?
Edwards said their plans to use the Magnolia Annex secures that site. Mooresville High
School is also an iconic structure and institution. The community believes it is the heart of the
community. They reviewed the costs of a 2,400 capacity high school and it was $64-$68 million.
Commissioner Robertson asked if any of the bond money will be used to hire more staff in
the central office.
Edwards said no.
Commissioner Robertson asked if the staff was cut in half would it help pay for the project.
Edwards said that would only be four people, so no.
Commissioner Robertson asked the risk if they delayed another two to four years.
Edwards said there are two factors. The first is safety. He believes if there is a small tremor
or earthquake the auditorium would go down. Also, the cost will continue to rise.
Commissioner Robertson said someone asked him about the lottery money. They wanted
to know what the schools are doing with the lottery money and why it isn't being used to build
schools.
Edwards said the lottery proceeds range from $300,000 to $350,000 per year and it is used
to pay for debt service.
Commissioner Robertson asked if the bond money was going to be used to pay for
Common Core curriculum.
Edwards said no.
Commissioner Robertson congratulated Dr. Edwards on the incredible positive press and
reputation they have helped Iredell County earn by some of the incredible things happening at
MGSD.
23
June 17, 2014
Commissioner Houpe stated he is concerned with the equity issue. When Statesville High
School was renovated, the City of Statesville contributed. If additional funding is received and if
the size of the project is reduced if would be appreciated. He asked the citizens to look at the bonds
objectively and look at the needs for both systems.
ever rhea
Mooresville
Graded School District
eYery ds'1
REVISED June 9, 2014
A RESOLUTION OF THE SCHOOL BOARD OF MOORESVILLE
GRADED SCHOOL DISTRICT, IREDELL COUNTY, NORTH
CAROLINA, REQUESTING THE ISSUANCE BY THE BOARD OF
COMMISSIONERS OF IREDELL COUNTY OF NORTH CAROLINA
FOR $72,000,000 IN GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS TO BE
SUBMITTED TO THE VOTERS OF IREDELL COUNTY FOR AND
ON BEHALF OF SUCH BOARD FOR THE PURPOSE HEREINAFTER
STATED.
The Mooresville Graded School District Board of Education requests that the Board of
Commissioners of Iredell County adopt an order authorizing general obligation bonds of
the County, and the calling of a referendum thereon for $72,000,000, at which such order
will be submitted to the qualified voters of Iredell County on Tuesday, November 4,
2014.
WHEREAS, this School Board of Mooresville Graded School District, Iredell County,
North Carolina, deems it necessary and essential that $72,000,000 of such bonds be
issued to provide funds for erecting additional school buildings, remodeling, enlarging,
and reconstructing existing school buildings, as well as providing necessary utilities and
acquiring necessary land.
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SCHOOL BOARD OF MOORESVILLE GRADED
SCHOOL DISTRICT, IREDELL COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA, on the SIXTH day
of June 2014.
1, the undersigned Chair of the School Board of Mooresville Graded School District,
Iredell County, North Carolina, do hereby certify that the foregoing constitutes a true and
correct copy of a resolution duly adopted and entered in the minutes of said Board at
meeting held on the Sixth day of June, 2014.
4 /% June 6, 2014
Chain an, oard of Education Date
Mooresville Graded School District
2014 Proposed Bond Projects
REVISED—June 9, 2014
Project 1
Year 2014-2015 $40,000,000 (Two year project)
Mooresville High School renovation/construction of Performing Arts Center.
Begin construction in May 2015.
End construction in May 2017.
Project 2
Year 2017-2018 $32,000,000 (Two year project)
Begin construction of New Middle School in June of 2017.
Completion in May 2019.
*Total- $72,000,000
Mitchell Community College — Dr. Ralph Bentley of the Mitchell Community College
Board of Trustees addressed the Board. He said MCC is in great need of a health science building
that will house all of the science and health programs. The population is aging and the demand is
24
June 17, 2014
greater for trained health providers. The MCC Board has studied this for some time and feel it is
their greatest need.
MCC President Dr. Tim Brewer gave a brief overview of their decision. MCC is asking for
$12 million to build a health science building. He said in 2007/2008 they were provided, by the
state legislators, a sum of money to do advance planning for future capital needs. At that point the
legislators had mentioned a state-wide bond referendum for public universities and community
colleges. They immediately listed the number one priority as an allied health building. MCC has a
strong nursing program and most of the building will accommodate the current needs of that
program. It will also provide an opportunity to expand allied health and put all health programs in
one place. The desired future programs would include CT and Ultrasound, Paramedics, Physical
Therapy Assistants, Occupational Therapy Assistants, and Respiratory Therapy Assistants. The
idea is to expand what they are already offering.
Commissioner Robertson asked to clarify that these programs are presently active but they
are just in different buildings.
Brewer said that is correct.
Commissioner Robertson asked why they had to be in the same building.
Brewer said one of the main designs for this building is a mock hospital floor and clinical
space. If it is all in one location, it will allow the students of different programs to work together
in a simulated hospital scenario. The building design will include a bay and an ambulance for
paramedics. They have invested quite a sum of money in simulation technology. This project
would allow a more realistic situation.
Commissioner Robertson asked what would happen to all the space being used for those
programs now.
Brewer said they have had to close off part of the Cherry Street building because of HVAC
issues. The cost of replacing the HVAC is more than the worth of the building. An evaluation of
the building, years ago, stated they would be better off to build than to renovate. That building will
most likely be demolished and used for parking. The nursing program is housed in the science
building. That lab space was built in 1970. The State Board of Nursing allows 120 slots for students
but because of the limited facilities they only have 90-95 students. A new facility will allow them
to reach 120 and possibility go up to a 150 -person capacity.
Dr. Bentley said the Cherry Street building was donated by the Davis Hospital Foundation.
It does not meet any code or standard.
Brewer said they currently house the nursing program in the Greer Science Building. A
new facility will enable them to expand on the natural science offerings which are areas of growth
at MCC. Many students are transfers. They need and require space for chemistry and biology labs.
Commissioner Robertson asked for clarification on an earlier statement concerning the
disbelief of a need for capital.
Chairman Johnson said that statement was not made. He said earlier that the primary
concern of ISS was current expense. He did not say they had no concern about capital. But they
have stated that if they had to choose one or the other they would like to increase the current
expense fund.
Dr. Cash said that is correct. He said in a grossly underfunded education system there are
dire needs in both areas but for the moment, the current expense is a priority. There are definitely
capital needs which will continue to grow and be more expensive later.
25
June 17, 2014
RESOLUTION
WIiBRFAS, quality education and training are important to the economic vitality of Iredell
County; and,
W1 IFRFAS. increased demands related to the field of allied health and the technical skills
needed for employees in this field are impacting the need for educational facilities; and,
WHEREAS, Mitchell Community College has completed advanced planning for the construction
of an Allied I lealth Building to support this growing sector in our county; and.
WHEREAS, the Mitchell Community College Board of trustees has identified a new Allied
i-lealth Building as the number one building priority for the college; and,
W1 IFREAS, the cost of construction for a new Allied Health Building is $12,000,000; and,
WI II REAS, the construction of a new Allied Health Building could be scheduled to commence
at any point within the next five years;
I I IFRIT016', BF 11 RFiSOINFD by the Board of Trustees of Mitchell Commmllity College on
this C day of,j, ,e in the year„% e 1u that we tuuy support tile piacemera of me 00110
referendum question on the Novem4_014 ballot allot and encourage all voters to support the
referendum in order to ensure a brighter and more productive future for the citizens of Iredell
County.
6��
Ralph I.. Bentley, Chairman
Mitchell Community College Board of I rustees
Request Adoption of a Resolution Making Certain Findings Relating to the
Authorization and Issuance of School Bonds, and Community College Bonds, and Authorize
the Finance Director to File Application: Finance Director Susan Robertson presented an
updated copy of the resolution and the notice of intent. The first step by the Board of
Commissioners will be to adopt the preliminary findings resolution. Robertson said the financial
information estimates a 5.5¢ tax increase if it is placed early, with the first issue. The Notice of
Intent should be published on June 20. It will notify the public that the County intends to submit
this application to the local government commission. Within that is the same information that will
be included in the questions on the ballot to go to referendum on November 4, 2014. When it goes
to referendum the money will not be available immediately. Additional steps are required. Bonds
aren't issued until bids are in hand. This resolution starts the process to submit the application and
due to the Local Government Commission by July 1. The Board will be presented with a bond
order on July 15 for the first reading. At the first meeting in August, a public hearing will be held
along with a request to adopt a bond order to move forward.
Commissioner Robertson asked to clarify that if a motion was made but later discovered
the costs are lower than expected, then the County is not required to borrow the full amount.
Finance Director Robertson said that is correct.
Commissioner Robertson clarified the amount of the bond is a worst case scenario.
Finance Director Robertson said yes and it is a "not to exceed" number.
OTIO by Commissioner Ken Robertson to adopt a resolution making certain findings
and determinations authorizing the filing of an application with the local government
commission and appointing bond counsel in connection with the proposed issuance of school
bonds and community college bonds by the County.
26
June 17, 2014
Chairman Johnson asked to make a statement to clear some things. He said when money
is requested, they tend to describe the results in the terms they choose. No one has said that
Mooresville High School does not need serious renovation. There just seems to be a difference in
opinion on the cost. He said he has learned that facts do not speak for themselves. Johnson said,
with his background in economics, he is resistant to borrow $163.5 million in the current economic
climate. This amounts to almost 100% of the annual county budget. In the just approved FY 14/15
budget, total real property values are expected to rise by only 1.4%. Personal property values are
expected to decline 10.45%. A sufficient percentage is the depreciation and loss of property value
in capital equipment, which is manufacturing equipment, and it is not being replaced. He said in
order to take a look at the pulse of the local economy look at how capital equipment investment is
coming into the community. It is the best indicator of how much confidence businesses have. In
the future if that capital investment has increased then they expect things to be good, but if it is not
then they are worried. The net effect is that property tax values are expected to decrease in total
by $160.3 million. These numbers came from the County Manager's budget message. Sales tax
revenues are expected to rise 7% but represent only 8% of the total revenue, while property taxes
represent over 60%. The accommodating monetary policy of the Federal Reserve as it relates to
bond purchases and artificially low interests rates can hold the economy temporarily but only pro-
growth physical policy will cause the economy to grow. Such policy enactment is not in the
offering and therefore we cannot expect, in the foreseeable future, a significant growth in property
tax or sales tax revenues. In a historical four year property value cycle, one year of revaluation and
three non -valuation, one can expect an increase of revenue of over 40%. Taking the amount of
money per penny of revenue for 2015 projected in this budget of $2,039,325 and applying
historical averages we can expect a penny on the tax rate in the historical cycle to bring in
$2,914,641 leaving the tax rate the same. However, on the spread sheet provided for the
consideration of this referendum the per penny in 2019 is not $2,914,641 but only $2,143,706 or
nearly $800,000 less which means the debt load for the next several years much be borne by the
existing tax payers and tax base with virtually no help from economic expansion. There is little or
no possibility of tax relief in the future compared to the late 1990s and early 2000s when hundreds
of millions of dollars were spent on school buildings. The tax rate was lower in 2011 than it was
in 1994. Remember that in Moody's assessment of our financial condition, one of the things that
could make their outlook go down, concerning our credit rating, was the incurring of significant
new debt. Incurring new debt of $163.5 million is significant. Nevertheless, an argument can be
made to allow the voters to decide. However, it is the inequity of this proposal that is worthy of
consideration. He understands it is not possible to totally get equity because of the problems with
the structural integrity of some aspects of the Mooresville High School building. But in analyzing
and talking to people who are experts in construction, and some in public school construction, this
project is significantly over sized for the student population. It will be significantly used by the
community, and if that is the case, the community should help contribute to the cost and it should
not exacerbate the equity of school financing. Davie County is buying land and building a high
school for $56 million. In comparison, the CATS building in Troutman is 42,000 square feet and
the proposed auditorium at MGSD is 3,000 more square feet. Therefore, with the recommendation
of DPI and the State Board of Education and the exacerbation of the equity, he cannot support this
bond referendum.
Commissioner Houpe believes all questions and concerns are valid. These are critical
needs, some can no longer be delayed because of safety and liability. This board, with
Commissioner Boone, promised to put a bond on the ballot in November 2014 and the Board needs
to keep their word. The inequity has been explained. The community is contributing. Everybody
pays taxes. He believes the voters are smart enough to decide if they want this bond or not. They
deserve the opportunity to approve or not. He understands Chairman Johnson's concerns and
shares them. if the bonds pass and the economy takes a down turn, the Board of Commissioners
have the authority to slow or stop the projects, so as not to put the county and the tax payers in an
undue burden.
Commissioner Griffith believes the citizens, when voting, will look at their checkbooks
and determine if they can afford the bond. Not every bond that has been presented to the citizens
have passed and believes the citizens are intelligent to determine affordability.
Vice Chairman Marvin Norman thanked everyone for coming and bringing all of the
information. He thanked the presenters for all the work they have done.
Vice Chairman Norman seconded the motion.
VOTING: Ayes — 4; Nays — 1 (Chairman Steve Johnson)
27
June 17, 2014
Chairman Johnson made one more comment. He said it is now the policy of the Board to
proceed with these bonds and he will assist in this endeavor and not impede the progress of these
bonds as they move forward. He accepts the policy, even though he did not vote for it, he will
assist in the process in any way possible.
Commissioner Houpe thanked the staff for all the work done and yet to do.
RESOLUTION MAKING CERTAIN FINDINGS AND DETERMINATIONS,
AUTHORIZING THE FILING OF AN APPLICATION WITH THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT
COMMISSION AND APPOINTING BOND COUNSEL IN CONNECTION WITH THE
PROPOSED ISSUANCE OF SCHOOL BONDS, COMMUNITY COLLEGE BONDS AND
LAW ENFORCEMENT FACILITIES BONDS BY THE COUNTY
BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Commissioners (the "Board") for the County of
Iredell, North Carolina (the "County"):
Section 1. The Board does hereby find and determine as follows:
(a) Preliminary studies have been completed to demonstrate the need for financing
the cost of various public school improvements, community college improvements and law
enforcement facilities improvements for the County.
(b) The Board wishes to commence the procedures for the authorization of school
bonds, community college bonds and law enforcement facilities bonds to finance such
capital projects.
(c) The capital projects to be funded by the proposed bonds are necessary and
expedient, and the amount of proposed bonds is adequate and not excessive to fund said
capital projects.
(d) The debt management and the budgetary and fiscal management policies of the
County have been carried out in compliance with applicable law.
(e) The increase in taxes, if any, necessary to service the proposed debt will not be
excessive.
Section 2. The County Manager and the Director of Finance and Administration of the
County are each hereby authorized and directed to file an application of the County with the North
Carolina Local Government Commission for approval of not exceeding $151,500,000 School
Bonds, $12,000,000 Community College Bonds and $23,000,000 Law Enforcement Facilities
Bonds of the County. The Clerk to the Board is hereby authorized to publish a notice of intent to
file such application in the manner provided by law, and any action heretofore taken to publish
such notice is hereby approved, ratified and confirmed.
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 authorization, sale and issuance of the proposed bonds.
Section 4. The appropriate officers of the County are hereby authorized and directed to do
any and all things necessary, appropriate or convenient to carry into effect the provisions of this
resolution.
Section 5. This resolution shall take effect immediately upon its passage.
Request from Tax Administration to Approve Refunds and Releases for May:
MOTION by Commissioner Griffith to approve.
Smith said charter schools have impacted the refunds for the month of May.
VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0
Request for Approval of the May 20 & 22, 2014 Minutes: MOTIO by Commissioner
Renee Griffith to approve with a few corrections to the May 22 minutes.
VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0.
28
June 17, 2014
ANNOUNCEMENTS OF VACANCIES OCCURRING ON BOARD & COMMISSIONS
APPOINTMENTS TO BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
Juvenile Crime Prevention Council (5 Appointments) — Commissioner Renee Griffith
nominated Mark Vaughn, Paula Patterson, Vicki Dame, Leigh Byers and Dan Miglin.
MOTION by Chairman Johnson to close the floor to nominations and appoint Mark
Vaughn, Paula Patterson, Vicki Dame, Leigh Byers and Dan Miglin by acclamation.
VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0
Iredell County Planning Board (3 Appointments) — Commissioner Gene Houpe
nominated Jeff McNeely, Harry Tsumas, and Dennis Hutchens.
MOTION by Chairman Johnson to close the floor to nominations and appoint Jeff
McNeely, Harry Tsumas, and Dennis Hutchens by acclamation.
VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0
Region F Aging Advisory Committee (2 Appointments) — Commissioner Gene Houpe
nominated Barbara Barrier and Liz Burns.
MOTION by Chairman Johnson to close the floor to nominations and appoint Barbara
Barrier and Liz Burns by acclamation.
VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0
Mooresville Planning Board (1 Appointment) — Commissioner Gene Houpe nominated
Allen Brawley.
MOTION by Chairman Johnson to close the floor to nominations and appoint Allen
Brawley by acclamation.
VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
(None)
PUBLIC COMMENT
Fawn Strunk stated she had attended two previous Board of Commissioners' meetings but
someone said she could not speak at either one. She stated she is shocked at the lack of input tax
payers have when talking about the largest debt offering in the County's history. She feels the tax
payers need more voice. According to the news, the property taxes will rise by 14%. High property
taxes cause foreclosures. She is voicing opposition to putting the bond or debt referendum on the
ballot for ISS and MGSD in the form they are currently worded. She feels they are inequitable
with Mooresville getting half of the funds for 22% of the students. She is very concerned over the
wording on the referendum. She doesn't understand who chooses the wording. The devil is in the
details of the wording. Many people will be confused by the word Bond. People invest money in
bonds as an asset. She asked if the wording will make clear that these bonds will be debt and will
increase property taxes by approximately 14% and may result in foreclosures if the property owner
cannot pay. Will it be clear that homes will be the collateral for the debt being proposed? Who
chooses the wording and will it be clear that the 14% will be taxed on homes and real estate? She
asked that the word "debt" be used as an explanation so people can understand what the word bond
is referring to. She strongly opposes ISS and MGSD having a debt request on the ballot. If it does
appear, tax payers should understand it is not an asset and they are approving debt. Again, she
stressed it should be made clear especially since the newspaper stated it is the biggest debt offering
in the County's history. She thanked Chairman Johnson for his "no" vote.
29
June 17, 2014
Chairman Johnson apologized for any misunderstanding with the Board meetings. He
asked Ms. Strunk to contact the Clerk or himself. Although he may disagree with other members
of the Board, he believes none of them would deny anyone the opportunity to speak.
Chairman Johnson asked the County Manager and the Finance Director if the Board would
approve the wording that goes on the ballot.
Finance Director Susan Robertson said that is correct.
Chairman Johnson told Ms. Strunk she is welcome to address the Board at any time in the
future regarding that wording.
Commissioner Renee Griffith stated that the County's web site has all phone numbers and
contact information for all of the Commissioners. All members are accessible and encourage voters
to make contact.
NEW BUSINESS
(None)
COUNTY MANAGER'S REPORT
County Manager Ron Smith stated he will be out of town, Monday, June 30 through Friday,
July 4. He asked the Board to appoint Deputy County Manager Beth Dirks as Acting County
Manager while he is away.
MOT10N by Chairman Steve Johnson to appoint Beth Dirks as the Acting County
Manager in the absence of County Manager Ron Smith.
VOTING: Ayes — 5: Nays — 0
CLOSED SESSION
MOT10N by Chairman Steve Johnson to go into Closed Session pursuant to G.S. 143-
318.11 (a) (6) Personnel at 9:50 p.m.
VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0
(RETURNED TO OPEN SESSION AT 10:07)
Personnel —MOTION by Commissioner Ken Robertson to change the salary of the
Register of Deeds to $64,566 which is a Grade 78, Step 29.
VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0
ADJOURNMENT: OTION by Chairman Steve Johnson to adjourn the meeting at
10:09 p.m. (NEXT MEETING: Tuesday, July 15, 2014 at 7:00 p.m. in the Iredell County
Government Center, 200 South Center Street, Statesville, NC)
VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0.
Approval:
30
Clerk to the Board