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HomeMy WebLinkAboutSeptember_16_2014_Regular MinutesSeptember 16, 2014 IREDELL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS PRE -AGENDA MINUTES September 16, 2014 The Iredell County Board of Commissioners met Tuesday, September 16, 2014, at 5:00 PM, in the Iredell County Government Center (South Wing Conference 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, Sheriffs Deputy Bert Connelly, and Clerk to the Board Retha Gaither. Call to Order by Chairman Steve Johnson who said the Inmate Reduction Committee report seems to be a good project and that some recommendations have already been implemented which is a good service for the county. Judge Joe Crosswhite stated Bert Connelly had been instrumental in accomplishing these things. Crosswhite wanted to recognize Connelly for his dedication and hard work in saving the County money. Crosswhite continued reviewing the report. The programs that have been implemented have been used successfully in other counties and they have the unanimous endorsement of each member of the committee. The most important items are pre-trial supervision and an assistant district attorney. They would be reportable and accountable to the Board. The Board could set directives and review the progress as desired. If the program is productive it could be continued. However. if it is not beneficial it could be eliminated or modified at the Board's discretion. Crosswhite said one of the first items the committee discussed was a bailiff. Extra courts have been implemented and a bailiff, who is familiar with the inmates, can determine who is ready to take a plea, therefore, getting those cases on the docket quicker. This program, since July 18, has saved the County $137,000. This bailiff estimates he could average about 20 extra inmates a month which would save the County approximately $42,000 a month. Commissioner Renee Griffith asked for clarification on this procedure. Crosswhite said these inmates have decided to take a plea which means no trial and they are moved on to the Department of Corrections or out of the system. This program has already been implemented at no cost to the County. Deputy Eric Scene deserves credit for the success. The second program implemented was a pre-trial supervision program that is similar to what other counties are operating. Iredell County is already set and ready to take on one of these programs because APO (Appropriate Placement Options) has the funding, program, records system, and September 16, 2014 staff. This would address only the non-violent, low level offenders that are deemed appropriate by judicial and detention officers. For example: a guy is brought into court and is charged with the lowest felony but he had no prior criminal record, therefore, by law he could not be given an active sentence. He had been in custody 13 months under a $1,000 bond which he could not pay nor secure through a bondsman. A district attorney had offered pleas, but the inmate says he is not guilty and wants a trial. The pretrial program could monitor this person with required conditions that must be met. Crosswhite reiterated this would be for low level non-violent offenders. Crosswhite said the third program, which has been implemented in Union County, is to hire an assistant district attorney. He requested information from John Smith, Director of the NC Administrative Offices of Court, who stated Iredell County should be staffed with 14 district attorneys, but currently have 11. Also, a sixth district court judge was approved in 2008, but are currently operating with five. Even with short staff they are moving and closing cases. The committee is recommending the hiring of an assistant district attorney to work solely on custody cases and concentrate on getting those cases in court. Commissioner Ken Robertson asked the definition of a custody case. Crosswhite said it is people who are in custody, or jail, awaiting trial. Currently about 80% of the jail population is awaiting trial. Commissioner Robertson asked if Union County just funded the position and allows that person to work independently. Crosswhite said they were hired by the County Commissioners and work out of the DA's office with the mandate that they work only on the custody cases. District Attorney Sarah Kirkman said they would be sworn in with all the rights/responsibilities of a regular district attorney and would answer to the District Attorney, but their job would be the jail cases. Commissioner Ken Robertson clarified that they would be accountable to the Board but would be reportable to and work for the District Attorney. Crosswhite said this program has worked well in Union County. Commissioner Robertson asked if the number referring to cost and number of inmates impacted are accurate. Kirkman stated the salary would be an average entry level position assistant district attorney. The cases are estimated by what they have done so far. She added that other counties fund assistant district attorneys, not just forjail cases but for the good of the County. Crosswhite reiterated the numbers are estimated with the limited data available. Commissioner Robertson asked if the calculated savings included off-site housing. 2 September 16, 2014 Crosswhite said they only took the estimated $70 per day to house a prisoner in Iredell County. The cost to house off-site is more. Chairman Johnson asked if it is reasonable to assume that the beginning of this program will show some significant gain and then would focus to just maintain those gains. Crosswhite said that is correct. Chairman Johnson questioned the total expense of the Appropriate Placement Options and where that would be housed. Crosswhite said $7,200/month is an estimate from APO and is for 1 '/2 positions plus administrative support. However, he feels that number is a little high. Chairman Johnson asked for clarification that if the program is implemented then the jail population will decrease by 20 inmates. Crosswhite said that is correct, through the pre-trial supervision. It will take some time to identify and get them through the system. APO estimates they can handle that number, but it will be subject to whatever restrictions the Board imposes. With a very tight conservative program the number will be less. Chairman Johnson asked about the impact of legislative changes coming from Raleigh. Crosswhite said the population is growing and the committee looked at ways to reduce the current population. The Board will have to look at long term and determine the best way to allocate money and resources to address the growth. He feels that no matter what happens about the jail, these programs are programs that should be considered to save money. One of the changes from Raleigh is probation violations. In the past judges had complete discretion when someone violated probation, the judge could revoke the probation thus sending them to the Department of Corrections to fulfill their sentence. That has changed in the last couple of years. Now the only time a judge can revoke is if the defendant has either absconded or if they have new criminal convictions. They can only do a ninety day dip which means the defendant will serve 90 days in the County jail. He feels the state is trying to control their costs and pushing this on the County. Chairman Johnson asked Crosswhite if he feels a jail will have to be built regardless. Crosswhite said absolutely, it should be considered. He is not advocating for when or how much but the present recommendations are items that can be managed now, but future growth can't be controlled. Chairman Johnson asked Bert Connelly if he is redescent to surrender any of the beds in Rowan County because of the legislation. He feels if the beds are given up it would be difficult to get them back. Connelly said that is a problem. They could look at the numbers and census in a couple of months. September 16, 2014 Commissioner Robertson questioned the estimated number of reductions, noticing 20 for pre-trial supervision and 20 for contract ADA, which brings the potential total of reductions to 40 inmates. Robertson proposed to ask staff to review the financial actions of funding 1.5 full time positions at APO, the contract ADA and then the contract judge. This should include all potential costs. If these positions come to fruition he suggests they are contracted initially. He also suggested asking staff to design a Metrix/scale to measure an anticipated level of progress to ensure success of the programs. Once these programs are implemented, measured, and reviewed, then use those numbers to calculate the jail needs. Commissioner Griffith asked the possibility of a grant. Commissioner Gene Houpe asked if there had been a conversation with John Smith. Crosswhite shared an email he received from John Smith which stated the court system has lost, state wide, 10% of their workforce. In 2010 $36 million was cut, in 2011 $63 million was cut and in 2012 $38 million was cut and these are permanent with no chance of reinstatement. Commissioner Houpe asked if the DA's office had space for another person. Kirkman said they had half of an office that could be used by one person. The district ADAs and the Federal Prosecutor are not in their offices full time and therefore can be shared. Commissioner Houpe said these programs should be considered long term in order to decrease population and costs. Chairman Johnson agreed with Commissioner Robertson's suggestion to have the Finance Department review the numbers presented. Also, a review and cost analysis of not taking any action. Captain Connelly said medical costs should definitely be included. The leg bracelets with GPS have been successful. Kirkman reiterated that someone from her office and ajudge will approve everyone on the list for these programs. Commissioner Houpe asked about a time frame for finance to return with their recommendations. County Manager Ron Smith suggested the second meeting in October. Chairman Johnson said the discussion has been on short term solutions but wanted to talk about the other recommendations. The first long term item is fully funding the Crime Lab which has already been an issue for months. Crosswhite said the committee is not advocating to maintain or to end the crime lab. However, if the crime lab remains then they suggest to get the best bang for the buck. 4 September 16, 2014 Commissioner Houpe said the lab is vital but would like the County Manager to research the possibility of putting the lab under another department's supervision. He is concerned about the chain of custody for evidence. He feels there needs to be some protocols set into place for business/management to be able to continue and justify. Chairman Johnson feels they can make money performing DUI cases for 3 troops of the Highway Patrol. Kirkman questioned why they would pay for services that could be received free from the state lab. Commissioner Houpe said it is the wait time that makes a difference. Chairman Johnson said the lab reported they were negotiating a contract, but does not know if it has been finalized. If this is accomplished it would supplement the operational cost. Fees could also be charged to other counties who want results expedited. However, at the present time, the exact cost of operating the crime lab has not been determined. Commissioner Houpe said they have discussed the possibility of charging other counties and agencies fees for lab services. He is most concerned that he doesn't want Iredell County citizens subsidizing testing for other counties. Commissioner Griffith said everyone would feel better if they could just see actual numbers of costs associated with the crime lab. Chairman Johnson stated, in reference to the second item of additional courtrooms, the present Hall of Justice is a poorly designed building. He would like to form a committee with at least one commissioner, any member(s) from the Inmate Reduction Committee, and one staff member to try to confirm a number on the crime lab. He would like to look internally to create, at minimal expense, another superior court room. This would be short-term to bridge the gap from now to when funds would be available for something permanent. This committee will look at the crime lab operation costs and courtroom space. He suggested the committee talk with the customers of the crime lab to determine exactly what kind of service they expect. Crosswhite said the drug court emphasizes rehabilitation rather than punishment. Programs have been implemented in Brunswick and Buncombe County. The long term goal is to reduce drug related crimes. At one time such a program was considered in Iredell with funding from the state, however, it was cut from the budget and will probably not be offered anytime soon. Commissioner Marvin Norman asked how often the courtroom in Mooresville was being used. Kirkman said it is used twice weekly for criminal and district court, once a month for traffic court, and three days for civil court. Commissioner Houpe asked if one courtroom could be changed to a superior courtroom and, if so, are there enough judges to preside. September 16, 2014 Crosswhite said yes they have been funded through Raleigh for more superior courtjudges. However, that is not the problem. There is only one courtroom in Mooresville. Kirkman said if there was a superior court trial then district court would be displaced three days a week. Those courts could not be moved to Statesville because of other courts going on at the same time. Another issue to remember is transportation of an inmate for a criminal superior court session. Chairman Johnson reiterated for the committee to delve into these issues for possible solutions. He understands the larger problems but with the economy it is going to be a long time before anything substantial can happen. Crosswhite understands and stated these recommendations are made to help with the backlog. The recommendations have been for inmates in custody and/or going to take pleas, but at some point they will have to address those that will not plead guilty therefore want their constitutional right to a jury trial. Commissioner Houpe asked if it was logistical to search for another place to hold civil court in order to have a place for district court if there was a jury trial. Clerk of Court James Mixson said the court room would need a jury box and a jury deliberation room even for civil court. leased. Commissioner Houpe asked if the Federal Courthouse was used often and if it could be Crosswhite said that has been discussed and he will look into it further. Graham said the lower level has been renovated for bankruptcy court and is used about three days a month with another meeting twice monthly and one session of court. Commissioner Griffith said this needs to be researched from all sides. Graham said the Clerk's office is overrun with tons of paper files which take up space. If this could be automated/digitized it may be that the existing court house could accommodate a number of different offices. The Estates Division may be appropriate to co -locate with the Register of Deeds for convenience of research. Chairman Johnson said he had talked with Senator Curtis and asked if there was any legislation that would prohibit the digitization of court records. Mixon said they operate under the AOC Rules of Record Keeping which mandates retaining the file. However, there hasn't been a clear answer whether a paper file and a digital file is the same. Chairman Johnson suggested getting a clear answer as to what records must be retained in hard copies. 6 September 16, 2014 Mixson said they have moved some older files to the Register of Deeds. Some of those files are far too brittle to even scan to digitize. He said if he had to move one department, the Estates Division could be co -located with the Register of Deeds. Presently there are 4 employees and the files could easily be moved. Deeds. Smith said there is space but they have discussed expanding ECOM into the Register of Chairman Johnson suggested checking on digitizing records before moving anyone. Mixson will work to obtain a definite answer about record retention. County Attorney Bill Pope said the health department received a grant to digitize their records. County Manager stated the Sheriffs Office requested two bailiffs in the budget but only one was approved. He asked Captain Connelly if this would force another request. Connelly said they would review that at budget time. Chairman Johnson reviewed items to be done. First, staff will determine all of the cost of the crime lab; second, the committee actually looks at the crime lab and the administration of it. Crosswhite suggested that he, Judge Graham, and Sarah Kirkman not be part of a new committee. Kirkman said she would give her opinion on how she uses the crime lab and how much it helps. Commissioner Griffith stated there is no one to validate the information given about the crime lab. She recommends that someone look at the reports from the crime lab to validate the data. She is concerned whether or not the use of the equipment and productivity is equal to the investment. Smith said he has discussed this with Finance Director Susan Robertson. It is very difficult because the accountability is not there. Commissioner Houpe asked if the judges could ensure that court fees are paid. Chairman Johnson said it is the opinion in Raleigh that legislature cannot pass a law telling judges they must do that. Crosswhite said 80% of the time, people entering pleas for drug offenses will specify the type of drug in order to bypass the $600 lab fee. If it was tested by law enforcement there is a fee and the judge will order payment. Chairman Johnson reiterated his concerns, specifically about law enforcement needs or requests to the crime lab. I September 16, 2014 Crosswhite said there have been changes in the law. Now, personal appearance is required to testify. The state crime lab only has 30-32 people across the state who can appear to testify in a case, which is one of the frustrations. He would like the lab to do more than just test drugs, such as DNA testing. Chairman Johnson said anyone that is already on the jail committee is invited to volunteer for this newer committee. He asked Judge Crosswhite to interview the present members and the Board of Commissioners will appoint the others. The Board recessed at 6:20 PM IREDELL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MINUTES September 16, 2014 The Iredell County Board of Commissioners met Tuesday, September 16, 2014, at 7:00 PM, in the Iredell County Government Center (Commissioners' Meeting Room), 200 South Center Street, Statesville, NC. Staffrp esent: County Manager Ron Smith, County Attorney Bill Pope, Deputy County Manager Beth Dirks, Finance Director Susan Robertson, Captain Bert Connelly, Major Darren Campbell, Lieutenant Neil Hayes, Assistant Detention Shift Supervisor Max Ray Shaver, Jr., Lieutenant William Hamby, Central Permitting Director Carissia Plyler and Clerk to the Board Retha Gaither. CALL TO ORDER by Chairman Steve Johnson INVOCATION by Chairman Johnson led the invocation and asked for a moment of silence for the family of Priscilla Redmond, wife of Sheriff Phil Redmond, who passed away earlier this afternoon. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE led by Chairman Johnson ADJUSTMENTS OF THE AGENDA: County Manager Ron Smith had one adjustment to the agenda as follows: Addition: Closed Session— Personnel G.S. 143-318.11 (a) (6) MOTION by Commissioner Renee Griffith to adopt the agenda as amended. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 PRESENTATION OF SPECIAL RECOGNITIONS & AWARDS Special Recognition of Retiring Sheriffs Deputy Lieutenant Neil Hayes and Assistant Detention Shift Supervisor Max Ray Shaver, Jr.: Major Darren Campbell came forward and asked Hayes and Shaver to join him. Campbell expressed his appreciation to both gentlemen and September 16, 2014 presented them with a plaque in honor of their retirement. Shaver has been employed for 14 years and Hayes for over 30 years. Chairman Johnson expressed, on behalf of the Board, appreciation to Hayes and Shaver for their dedication to Iredell County. APPOINTMENTS BEFORE THE BOARD Request from David Swann to Give an Update on Partner's Behavioral Health Care: Chairman Johnson introduced David Swann and stated Mr. Swann would be retiring soon. Johnson expressed his appreciation and respect for Mr. Swann. David Swann said he wanted to return to present to the Board one last time. He stated he first appeared before the board in 1997 and it has been one of the best relationships between a county and behavioral health. He continued and said the first item is a community needs assessment which was done in all eight counties and published on Partner's web site. He said Partner's is managing all of the behavioral health care and is providing a network. There have been a couple of changes in regulations from the Federal Government. Mercer Government Human Services consulting, was engaged by the State to perform an audit on all of the managed care organizations and there are nine that service North Carolina. Partner's received an "A" score. Another report was just completed in August called an External Quality Review. The result of this review should be ready in about thirty days. The Progress and Success report is a two year snapshot of the successes of Partner's. He said 13,000 people have received health care through the providers managed by Partner's and some services have been expanded. The report shows goals that have been set by Partner's but also what the State instructed. They had to improve behavioral health care and save tax payer's money, which they saved $21,700,000 just last year according to what the Medicaid system was spending before when Partner's was not managing. This means there were services being provided that were not needed or services being over used or redundant. Managed care corrected those issues. He stated Partner's is a healthy organization and are doing well. Commissioner Renee Griffith reiterated that $22 million was saved with only 9% being spent on administration costs. She said it has been an honor to serve on the Partner's board. Swann said this happens because they have a fixed amount of money but are at full risk, which means they cannot deny services to a Medicaid enrollee in this State. They manage the care, services and dollars in a way to allow for the savings but services are still rendered. Chairman Johnson stated, when he was on that board, they were forced to carry a larger fund balance because the state was slow with reimbursements. He asked if that situation had improved. Swann said it is not the same but they still must maintain a substantial fund balance. It is now called a risk reserve. They are required to add 2% yearly to build this account. Commissioner Ken Robertson commented he has witnessed Mr. Swann's report for the past 10 years. About every two years the State changes the structure. He quoted Petronius, "We trained hard — but it seemed that every time we were beginning to form up into teams, we would 9 September 16, 2014 be reorganized. I was to learn later in life that we tend to meet any new situation by reorganizing, and what a wonderful method it can be for creating the illusion of progress while producing confusion, inefficiency and demoralization." He said Mr. Swann was living in an environment of constant reorganization but yet came to the Board with a positive spirit and a belief that goals could be achieved. Effective leaders have enthusiasm and positive outlooks. He congratulated Mr. Swann as a leader in some difficult situations and expressed his respect for his work. Commissioner Griffith said it has been reported the state is about to reorganize once again. Partner's will then be managing 35 counties. Swann said the date has not been set but it is expected to be in 2016. Request from Judge Crosswhite to Present Findings/Results of the Inmate Reduction Committee: Superior Court Joe Crosswhite thanked the board for the opportunity to make recommendations on ways to reduce the inmate population in the jail without impacting public safety. He, also, thanked the members of the committee who came together and devoted their time. The recommendations are divided into three sets — immediate, short term, and long term suggestions. The short term recommendations were realizing the need that people, because of extended jury trials or just a change of heart, might be interested in taking a plea. Therefore a bailiff was assigned, who has daily contact with those inmates, to get them into court to take pleas and then move out of the jail or onto the Department of Corrections. Deputy Eric Scene actually spearheaded the operation which was implemented on a trial basis on July 18. Through his efforts the total days saved were 1,965 which equates to a savings of $137,000 in inmate time. Crosswhite recognized the deputy and thanked him for the success of this program. Another recommendation for midterm was the pre-trial supervision program which addresses non-violent low level offenders that were deemed appropriate by judicial and detention officials. This program is relatively easy to implement. APO (Appropriate Placement Options) made a recommendation for the County to hire an additional district attorney to focus exclusively on custody cases to move them through the system quicker. Chainnan Johnson said all were in agreement with the short term solutions which is just a matter of implementation and the staff calculating the cost. In the long-term recommendations, item #1, Steve suggested forming a new committee of anyone who will be willing to serve from the inmate reduction committee along with one commissioner and one county employee appointed by the County Manager. This committee will review the long-term recommendations. He said he would like to amend an earlier suggestion to restrict the assignment to the committee to items 2 & 3 which would be addition courtrooms to accommodate superior court jury trials and review the drug court situation. He would like the crime lab removed from the committee's responsibility. However, in relation to the crime lab, he would like to hear from the customers, what types/levels of service they would expect from a crime lab. He asked Judge Crosswhite to talk with other judges, district attorneys, etc. from the court system what they want as customers of the lab. This would help the Board to determine the level of funding and what can be expected of the staff of the lab. Crosswhite agreed but it will take some additional time which is why it is listed as a long- term recommendation. 10 September 16, 2014 Chairman Johnson reiterated his request for Judge Crosswhite to talk with his colleagues to make a list of services expected from the crime lab. This list will be given to the committee and it will be combined with their recommendations. Commissioner Griffith agreed with Chairman Johnson's assessment but would like to see a separate group formed to review the crime lab. Chairman Johnson said he would just like to limit this committee's time they would spend on the crime lab to defining the services needed and allow them to proceed with the business of solving the backlog in the courts. He suggested maybe a parallel committee. Commissioner Griffith agreed but like to see some action taken in regards to the crime lab. MOTION by Commissioner Ken Robertson stating with the respect for the first four recommendations, we implement #1 now and send back to staff recommendations #2 through #4 so they can get an accurate cost, describe how the employee will be handled, design a Metrix to measure progress and report back to the Board by the second meeting in October. OTION AMENDMEN Chairman Johnson added one thing. Since this may begin in the middle of a budget year, there will need to be an estimated annual cost to the program. Commissioner Robertson said it should only require a budget amendment to begin. Commissioner Griffith is concerned that an accurate measurement may not be obtained in six months. Commissioner Robertson said the request from staff is to design a Metrix to measure progress but does not measure in-state. Commissioner Griffith stated that since the staff report is expected by the second meeting in October she would wait until the first meeting in November to make a recommendation about another committee to review the crime lab. SECOND by Commissioner Griffith. Chairman Johnson reviewed the idea and the motion: to save a number of beds, Appropriate Placements Options will save additional beds. All agree, that due to the legislative changes coming from Raleigh, Mr. Connelly is correct is being hesitant to render beds in Salisbury because they may be needed. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 Commissioner Robertson asked Judge Crosswhite to recognize the committee members. Crosswhite named the members of the committee — Chief District Court Judge Dale Graham, District Attorney Sarah Kirkman, Clerk of Court Jim Mixson, Captain Bert Connelly, Judge Deb Brown, Attorney Bill Baity, and Attorney James Mallory. September 16, 2014 Chairman Johnson said there needs to be a motion for the long-term recommendations. This committee will make a list and level of services that would be expected from the Iredell County Sheriff's Crime Lab. They would also return with recommendations on how to accommodate more superior court jury trials and fund a drug court to rehabilitate offenders. MOTION by Vice Chairman Marvin Norman to approve. MOTION AMENDMENT by Commissioner Gene Houpe to incorporate into that motion to review the list and level of services expected from the crime lab and recommend those back to the board. Also review ways to accommodate additional superior court space for jury trials and to fund a drug court designed to rehabilitate all offenders. Any current members of the existing committee may continue to serve on the newly formed committee if they wish. Also, one or two commissioners, the County Manager or designated county staff will serve on that committee as well. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 Chairman Johnson said another recommendation that was not discussed is courthouse security and he asked Judge Crosswhite and Captain Connelly to talk with the County Manager about their concerns. I nmate Reduction Cor nddee Final Report This committee was convened at the request of the Iredell County Board of Commissioners to make recommendations on ways to reduce the inmate population in the Iredell County Jail without impacting public safety. It is neither the purpose nor intention of this committee to engage in any political discussion about whether a new jail should be built. Currently, 70-80% of the jail population is housed for pretrial confinement. The efforts of this committee have been focused on immediate actions and recommended programs and personnel who would increase efficiencies within the judicial process, which would result in faster adjudication of criminal cases with a resulting reduction in the pretrial population. All numbers reported are estimates, but have been supported by similar programs in surrounding counties. Additionally, all recommendations have the unanimous endorsement of all committee members. Committee members include: Judge Joseph N. Crosswhite, Senior Resident Superior Court Judge; Judge Lynn Gallen, Resident Superior Court Judge; Judge L. Dale Graham, Chief District Court Judge; Judge Deborah Brown, Chairman of the Iredell County Criminal Court Committee; Jim Mixson, Clerk of Court-Iredell County; James Mallory, Commission Appointee-Iredell County; Sarah Kirkman, District Attorney; Bill Baity, Past President-Iredell County Bar Association; Dianne Sanders, Chief Magistrate-Iredell County; Bert Connolly, Captain-Iredell County Sheriff Department Leslie Houpe, North Carolina Office of Probation/Parole. Short Term Recommendations (within 30 days): 1. Establish a separate "clean up " calendar for Superior Court, each month, to address cases that were not reached during the regular session of court. This court will address those cases in which plea agreements have been entered between the District Attorney's Office and the defendant. Emphasis will be on custody cases and probation violations. 2. Assign a Bailiff to serve as a liaison between the jail and the courts. The baili�j,' who has daily, contact with the inmate population, will identify those inmates who are ready for court and notify court officials so the Defendant can be brought to court ahead of his regular court date. 3. Establish a "rocket docket" that allows District Court Judges to review bonds at all first appearance hearings and schedule those misdemeanor of that qualify for a quicker court appearance. 12 September 16, 2014 4. These programs were implemented on a trial basis, July 18. The first week of the program addressed 36 inmates, the second week addressed 21 inmates, the third week addressed 16 inmates, and the fourth week addressed 21 inmates. The total days saved during the first. four weeks of this program were 1,965. The total savings to the county is $137,550. While these numbers are most likely, high due to two long trials that shut down the Superior Courtroom for 14 weeks, the committee estimates these programs will continue to average 20 inmates per month. Estimated monthly savings should average $42, 000. There is no cost to the county. Mid Term Recommendations (30-120 days): 1. Establish a county funded pre-trial supervision program. This program is similar to other programs that have been operated successfully in surrounding counties for several years. The purpose of this program will be to identify those inmates who most likely will not receive an active sentence, but are unable to make bond. While programs in other counties have been more aggressive, this committee recommends a more conservative program that will only address non-violent low level offenders as deemed appropriate by judicial and detention officers. If the defendant qualifies, he or she will be released into the pretrial program under conditions similar to supervised probation. After discussing this program with surrounding counties and local agencies, the committee estimates that approximately 15-20 inmates may qualify for this program on a monthly basis. This program should be easy to implement since the Chief District Court Judge and District Attorney for Iredell County already monitor a similar program in Alexander County. This program will be a county funded program reportable to the county commission. Estimated monthly, savings should average from $31, 000 to $42, 000. Estimated cost to the county fbr this program should be $7,200. 2. Establish a grant to fund an additional Assistant District Attorney to focus solely on custody cases. This program was implemented in Union County three years ago and was so successful that funding for a second attorney was approved last year. The Union County DA reports that as a result of this program, the jail population experienced a lineal decrease in inmate population from 265 to 223 over the three year period. Union County did not keep statistics reporting the decrease in average length of stay, but intends to do so for 2014. Adjusting for the difference in population (22% less), this committee estimates that a monthly decrease of 23 in Iredell County is reasonable. This program will be a county funded program reportable to the county commission. Estimated monthly savings should average $48,000. Estimated monthly cost to the county, should average $6,500. 3. Several years ago, the District Attorney and Judges implemented an "H and 1" court, which allows district court judges to take pleas on low Level felonies in District Court. This program is operated one Thursday each month using available court space and judges. Last year, this program addressed an average of 14 cases monthly, of which 5 were inmates. This program is currently limited to once per month because we currently only have 5 district court judges, although we have been authorized to have 6 since 2008. This committee recommends the county contract with a retired judge one day, per month to operate an additional court. The committee further estimates that this program should generate similar numbers as the existing program. This program will be a county funded program reportable to the county commission. Estimated monthly savings should average $10,000. Estimated monthly cost to the county should average $500. Total Costs and Savings of short term and midterm pr ams(monthly estima Coats ($) Savings ($) Combined short term (20) None S42,000 Pre -Trial supervision (15-20) $7,200 831,000442,000 Contract ADA (23) $6,500 $48,000 Contractjudge (5) $500 $10,000 Total (60-65 inmates each month) $14,200 $131,0004142,000 Total Annual Costs $170,400 Total Annual Savings $1,572,000-$1,704,000 Long Term Recommendations (1-5 years): 1. Fully fund ICSD Crime Lab to address all lab and DNA issues. 13 September 16, 2014 Add additional courtrooms that can accommodate Superior Court jury trials 3. Fund drug court designed to rehabilitate offenders Other Recommendations: I. Courthouse security is a critical need. Recommend that Wilson Security offcers be supplemented by ICSD deputies that are both armed and have radio access to a quick reaction force. PUBLIC HEARINGS (None) ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS Request from the Finance Department to Approve Financial Advisory Services Agreement with First Tryon Advisors: Finance Director Susan Robertson said last year they had a great working relationship with First Southwest as financial advisor for the refinancing. Since that time Amy Vitner, who was principal advisor to us, has moved to First Tryon. This company is located in Charlotte and the request is to approve a four year Financial Advisory Services Agreement with First Tryon. There will be no cost unless a transaction is actually entered and then it becomes part of the closing cost. The SCC requires financial advisors to have signed agreements with their client. Chairman Johnson asked if this person would perform the same duties as a bond council but less expensive. Finance Director Robertson said they are doing refinancing modeling or specific analysis for debt issues that the County may want to enter into. MOTION by Commissioner Gene Houpe to approve. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 Request from Tax Administration for Approval of the August 2014 Refunds and Releases: MOTION by Commissioner Renee Griffith to approve. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0. Releases for the month of August 2014 Breakdown of Releases: County S 80,261.55 Solid Waste Fees S 15,262.00 Mooresville Solid Waste Fees S 10,200.00 Davidson Solid Waste Fees E. Alex. Co. Fire #1 $ - Shepherd's Fire #2 S 5,307.69 14 Monthly $ 173,657.36 Total September 16, 2014 Mt. Mourne Fire #3 $ 339.51 All County Fire #4 $ 3,438.25 B&F Fire 45 $ 740.94 Statesville City $ 963.28 Statesville Downtown $ - Mooresville Town $ 53,698.54 Mooresville $ 1,244.88 Downtown $ - Mooresville School $ 2,460.75 Love Valley $ - Harmony $ 53.35 Troutman $ 931.50 Davidson $ - Refunds for the month of August 2014 Breakdown of Refunds: County $ Solid Waste Fees $ 52.00 Mooresville Solid Waste Fees $ - Davidson Solid Waste Fees $ E. Alex. Co. Fire #1 $ Shepherd's Fire 42 $ 1,244.88 Mt. Mourne Fire #3 $ All County Fire #4 $ - B&F Fire #5 $ Statesville City $ - Statesville Downtown $ - Mooresville Town $ 89.00 Mooresville Downtown $ - Mooresville School $ 22.29 Love Valley $ - Harmony $ Troutman $ - Davidson $ Monthly $ 1,408.17 Total Request for Approval of Minutes for September 2, 2014: OTION by Vice Chairman Marvin Norman to approve. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0. ANNOUNCEMENTS OF VACANCIES OCCURRING ON BOARD & COMMISSIONS 15 September 16, 2014 Personnel Advisory Committee (2 Announcements) Animal Grievance Committee (1 Announcement) Nursing Home Advisory Committee (1 Announcement) APPOINTMENTS TO BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS Centralina Workforce Development Board (i Appointment): Commissioner Ken Robertson nominated Carl Larson of Blue Harbor Bank. OTION by Chairman Johnson to close the floor to nominations and appoint Carl Larson by acclamation. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 UNFINISHED BUSINESS (None) PUBLIC COMMENT Frank Rader reported the Schools First Bond Referendum Committee had set an initial goal to raise $50,000 and as of this date they have raised $56,000. They anticipate another $45,000 coming in. Signs are out, stickers and flyers are available. They are contracting for automated phone calls to encourage voting. They meet weekly with a core group to plan strategies. NEW BUSINESS (None) COUNTY MANAGER'S REPORT County Manager Ron Smith reported good news from Environmental Health. The backlog in Mooresville is now down to two weeks. Smith acknowledged an invitation to the ribbon cutting and open house celebration at Scotts Rosenwald Park on Saturday, October 4 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 PM. CLOSED SESSION MOTION by Chairman Steve Johnson to go into Closed Session pursuant to G.S. 143- 318.11 (a) (4) Economic Development; G.S. 143-318.11 (a) (5) Real Property Purchase/Contract/Lease; and G.S. 143-318.11 (a) (6) Personnel at 7:53 PM VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 Returned to open session at 8:38 PM ADJOURNMENT: MOTION by Commissioner Renee Griffith to adjourn at 8:42 PM. (The next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, October 2, 2014, 6:00 PM in the Fellowship Hall of 16 September 16, 2014 Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 225 Morgan Street, Troutman, NC. This session is a joint meeting with the Mooresville Board of Commissioners.) VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0. Approval: 17 Clerk to the Board