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HomeMy WebLinkAbout6-21-2016 MinutesIREDELL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS PRE -AGENDA MINUTES June 21, 2016 The Iredell County Board of Commissioners met in pre -agenda session on Tuesday, June 21, 2016 at 5:30 PM, in the Iredell County Government Center (South Wing Conference Room), 200 South Center Street, Statesville, NC. Board Members Present Chairman James B. Mallory III Vice Chairman Marvin Norman Tommy Bowles Steve Johnson Ken Robertson Staff present: County Manager Ron Smith, County Attorney Bill Pope, Deputy County Manager Beth Jones, Finance Director Susan G. Robertson, Attorney Lisa Valdez, Assistant to the Manager Ben Stikeleather, and Clerk to the Board Retha Gaither. CALL TO ORDER: Chairman James Mallory called the meeting to order. ADJUSTMENTS TO THE AGENDA: County Manager Ron Smith made the following adjustments: Add: Appointments to Board and Commissions —Mitchell Community College Board of Trustees (1 Announce/Appoint). They have asked to suspend the rules to announce and appoint simultaneously because of the length of time to the next meeting. Unfinished Business — Request from the Finance Department for Approval to Amend the Cool Spring Elementary School Capital Project Ordinance. Unfinished Business — I-77 Toll Lanes Closed Session — Personnel G.S. 143-318.11 (a) (6) and Property Acquisition G.S. 143-318.11 (a) (5) Presentation by Jeff Eads of Partners Behavioral Health will take place at 7:00 PM PUBLIC HEARINGS (None) ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS Request from ECOM for Approval to Purchase a Motorola MCC7500 Console as Sole Source for the Communications Center: County Manager Ron Smith had asked ECOM Director Candy Strezinski to create a presentation with details about ECOM. However, this would work better at the 7:00 session. Commissioner Johnson said there is still some disagreement in the emergency communications community about how to proceed and whether this expenditure is justified. June 21, 2016 There's been talk of a lesser solution involving a decoder that would help dispatch, but would not be able to monitor Mooresville Fire. Strezinski said the sole source is no longer needed because it is a state contract to purchase. There are other solutions such as a decoder. In order to be able to dispatch appropriately for Mooresville, and for the five fire departments in the south that are going to UASI, the county needs a viable solution to be able to connect to the UASI system. The standardized way is the MCC7500. That is what Mooresville is currently using on that system. It is a Motorola product and is very compatible. The hook-up will include all of the integration that it provides. The emergency button notification shows who is setting off the button. There is voice priority on Motorola so everyone is not talking at once. The ID data base that UASI will keep will tie into VIPER with the same console. The 7500 will be in the new center for capability. The goal is to connect directly to Newton into the VIPER system and the 7500 console is required. This requested 7500 console will transition to the new center. There has been talk about adding a decoder which will show the ID of the person hitting the 911 button instead of getting up and going to the back room to find out. Strezinski is not a fan of "piece milling" this equipment and would like to see this emergency radio system done correctly. Vice Chairman Norman asked if one department could talk to each other without tying up the regular channel. Strezinski said yes. For example, recently during a drowning incident, Strezinski said once it was dispatched there was no communication with emergency personnel on the scene. They were on a channel that ECOM did not have access to or able to record it. That puts the County in a liability situation. Commissioner Johnson asked if there is going to be complete interoperability and connectivity with VIPER, that the 7500 or something similar would be needed irrespective of what decision is made in the south end of the County. Strezinski said that is correct. Commissioner Johnson asked if the decoder was added then Mooresville could be identified but couldn't be tracked. Does this include the other South Iredell departments as well? Strezinski said the current solution is Mindshare and the decoder can be wired to work. It will send an ID on the current console and is fairly inexpensive Commissioner Johnson asked if there was a side channel with UASI that couldn't be accessed with a decoder. Strezinski said there would not be any direct access to the UASI system. The UASI has very strict guidelines as to what they allow. Commissioner Johnson said he does not want to "patch" and believes it should be done right in the beginning. Strezinski said a wireless patch allows for RF (radio frequency) interference, such as static, interruptions, or delays. Chairman Mallory asked about cost comparison. June 21, 2016 7500. Strezinski said one could possibly purchase seven Mindshare consoles for the price of one Chairman Mallory asked the number of 7500 console needed. Strezinski said all of them should be 7500, but they could be progressively brought in over the next couple of years. Vice Chairman Norman said this could possibly be taken from different budget years. Strezinski replied that it could be spread out. The radio consoles have never been turned in as 911 eligible and they are partially eligible for reimbursement. Commissioner Bowles asked if the other 7500 consoles, needed for the new center, would be reimbursable. Strezinski said a portion is eligible. Chairman Mallory asked if the older consoles need a patch or piece to operate. Strezinski said currently the older consoles are patched three places. The 7500 console will, currently, be used only for fire. Chairman Mallory clarified that the 7500 would be exclusive for one type of dispatch and then with other replacements other entities would be added. Commissioner Bowles clarified that there is no communication with the UASI without this console. Strezinski said not exactly. They are currently testing. A consolette was installed that was given by Mooresville in order to dispatch. It is not configured for stackable paging. Mooresville's radio technician told Strezinski that it would take about eight seconds for a page to go out and therefore a group page would take about a minute, thirty seconds. The 7500s will send pages simultaneously, within seconds. Commissioner Johnson stated his concerns about the future. He trusts this is the first step but would like to see a capital plan for the entire system. He suggested this plan should be ready at the Board's fall planning session. The plan should include the total cost and the amount over the next three to five years. Smith said this will be covered under Mission Critical, which is the technology piece of the overall building project. Commissioner Johnson asked if this would be the recommendation of Mission Critical. Strezinski said yes. The specs and links were sent to Mission Critical who did a radio analysis and returned the recommendation. The 7500 is required to get onto the State system. Commissioner Johnson asked if Mission Critical will have the in-depth knowledge of the finances and how much is reimbursable in order to create a capital plan. Strezinski said it is hard to know what is reimbursable until it is submitted because there are so many variances. June 21, 2016 Smith said Mission Critical is about 80% done and this report can be shared with the Board as soon as possible. Commissioner Bowles asked if this would eliminate the portable radio. Strezinski said yes, along with the scanner. Chairman Mallory asked what would happen to the old consoles. Is there a benefit to retain them as backups? What is the glideslope for replacing them? Commissioner Bowles asked about the newest console to date. Strezinski said all of the consoles were purchased in 2014. Finance Director Robertson said it was approximately $83,000 and was paid last July. Strezinski said they could be sold. Commissioner Johnson asked if there is a sunset on reimbursements. Strezinski said there is an equipment list from the NC Standards Committee. There is a life cycle for equipment vital to the 911 System, which is about to be published to the PSAPs. A life cycle is approximately four— five years, depending on the warranty. Commissioner Johnson asked if all the money is fronted now, is there a risk of not being reimbursed. Strezinski said this 7500 will be entered for reimbursement when it is ordered. Chairman Mallory asked the status of the 911 funds. Strezinski said the fund will be emptied. The State informed them that too much was being carried over and instructed to reduce the fund. Strezinski met with the 911 finance to explain about the project and was concerned that there will be a shortage as early as the end of 2017. Therefore a reconsideration will be needed. The 911 Board has never said no when there is a need to upgrade equipment to facilitate a new building. Iredell County has a major project and has not asked for a lot of money upfront. Items that are eligible for reimbursement will be submitted. There is a timeframe to ask for additional funds. Commissioner Bowles asked about the consoles used by Mooresville to be the backup for Iredell County. Strezinski said they are using the 7500. Commissioner Johnson reiterated the need for a capital plan to understand what can be expected with reimbursements. Chairman Mallory added the Board needs to understand the timeframe for reimbursements. Strezinski said with the backup plans, along with putting the PSAPs in place, the grant money is dwindling. The 911 Board chose not to increase the rate on the phone bill this year but predict it will happen next year. Chairman Mallory reiterated the need to know positively about the timeframe. June 21, 2016 This will be discussed further at the 7:00 regular session. Request from ECOM for Approval of a MOU with the Town of Mooresville as an Emergency Communications Center Backup: ECOM Director Candy Strezinski stated requested the establishment a formal agreement with the Town of Mooresville to use their EOC as a backup for Iredell County. The agreement signed in 2008 has been updated. The budget includes funds that have been or would be spent but the total figure was submitted to the 911 Board. Smith said it is mandated to have a backup and Mooresville is really the only option. This item was placed on the consent agenda. Request from the Finance Department for Approval to Reallocate JCPC FY1 7 Funds: Finance Director Susan Robertson gave an updated JCPC funding plan for FYI 7. Two programs were sponsored by Appropriate Placement Options, who later decided to cease operations. Therefore, JCPC went back through the RFP process and has now reallocated those funds to the Piedmont Mediation Center. They will sponsor a restitution program and a teen court program. In addition, it is recommended that the County's matching grant for APO be given to Piedmont Mediation as well. Piedmont Mediation will work collaborative with Children's Hope Alliance to provide more programs than what has been seen in the past. Piedmont Mediation had the lowest cost per child, yet the highest amount budgeted for restitution that the children have to earn. Chairman Mallory asked how many children are serviced. Piedmont Mediation Representative Terri Masiello said there were approximately 75 in Teen Court and a little over 100 in Community Service. This item was placed on the consent agenda. Request from the Finance Department for Approval of a Five -Year Agreement with Bingham Arbitrage Rebate Services for the Mooresville High School GO Bonds: Finance Director Susan Robertson asked for the approval of a five-year agreement with Bingham Arbitrage Rebate Services for the Mooresville High School GO project that was issued last December. It is required to monitor for five years or stop when all bond proceeds have been expended, whichever comes first. Traditionally the bond proceeds are expended within the five-year period. The IRS requires the County to engage in an outside agency to monitor the arbitrage and calculations. Bingham has been a good partner since the 80s. This item was placed on the consent agenda. Request from the Finance Department for Approval of BA #34 for the Workers Compensation Self -Insurance Fund: Finance Director Susan Robertson said this request was mentioned during the budget work sessions. It may not be needed but there are some unsettled claims that have not been billed to date. This item was placed on the consent agenda. BA#34 6/21/2016 To appropriate Workers Compensation Self -Insurance Fund fund balance to cover extraordinary claims and mediated settlements duringFY2016. Account # I Current Budget Chane Amended Budget 684880 499500 Appropriated Fund Balance (258,850) (100,000) (358,850) 685415 546200 Workers Comp Claims 440,000 (10,485) 429,515 685415 546300 Settlements 125,000 110,485 235,485 June 21, 2016 Request from the Finance Department to Authorize the Demolition and Removal of Old Houses: Purchasing and Contracts Manager Dean Lail said several houses on Short Street have been sub -leased over the years. As these houses have deteriorated and are not worth remodeling the lease is not being renewed. These houses should be demolished to make use of the area for parking and/or staging during the construction of the new jail. Chairman Mallory asked how many house are left and when the leases would expire. Facility Services Director Robert Woody said there are 9 left. The leases will end in February of 2017 and the agreement states the houses can be removed at expiration. Tenants will be notified in November to vacate by February. Chairman Mallory suggested to move the notification up to September. This item was placed on the consent agenda. Request from the Register of Deeds to Refund Revenue Stamps to the Law Office of Collum & Perry: Register of Deeds Matt McCall said statutes require the preparer to correctly report the tax owed, however these were reported incorrectly. The process to grant the refund is dictated by statute. This item was placed on the consent agenda. Request from Administration to Discuss a South End Development Services Office: County Manager Ron Smith had discussed a Mooresville permitting office with the Town of Mooresville. The Town was displaying interest if the County had no plans to have a satellite office in Mooresville. Research shows 30% of issued permits are within Mooresville's corporate limits and 60% of permits have a Mooresville address. Currently everyone is required to drive to Statesville for permits. If an office is used at Government Center South, there would be an estimated up -front cost of $67,000. The demolition could take place at the same time as the demolition for DSS offices. The total estimated cost of the project could be $800,000 with half being for future staffing. It would not be beneficial to move people from the Statesville office. Commissioner Robertson said it appears that Mooresville could become the primary site and couldn't staff be cross trained to do more than one job. Vice Chairman Norman asked about the work load for the Statesville staff if work is being done in Mooresville. Smith said staff must be available in Statesville for the other 40% of work. There could be some cross training in some areas. Commissioner Robertson asked about Mooresville funding the office. Chairman Mallory reminded the Board of budget sessions when it was mentioned about the age of staff and the potential retirements which means there could be a crisis situation within the next five years to replace the retirees. Add that to the issue of increasing staff and then there is a more difficult problem to solve. However, if Mooresville said they would prefer to have that office under their roof to provide that level of service specifically to Mooresville, then it would be a relief valve for the County. Commissioner Johnson asked if the $400,000 for staff was an increase in the annual budget. June 21, 2016 Smith said yes but it does include moving some existing staff. Development Services Director Lynn Niblock said that number does not include any additional building inspectors. Commissioner Johnson asked how much the operating cost will increase with the first year of this office. Smith said $415,000. Commissioner Johnson commented there would be no increase in revenue. Smith said traditional revenues have been healthy over expenditures in this department. The staffing cost would be covered with existing revenues. It makes sense to allow Mooresville to pay and staff this office but there would be some subtle issues. Mooresville would only handle corporate and the County would still handle ETJ, Brawley School Road, etc. which could be confusing. Commissioner Robertson asked about consistency and the potential of two levels of expectations. Niblock said it is possible, especially with contractors and designers. A common compliant throughout the state and country is a lack of consistency. Commissioner Robertson asked if would be necessary to have multiple people in multiple locations doing the same task with today's technology. Maybe use Skype, or use some type of digital technology in answering simple questions. Commissioner Bowles asked if some people could work Monday, Wednesday, and Friday in Statesville then work Tuesday and Thursday in Mooresville. He asked if Mooresville would contribute anything toward this office. Smith doesn't know at this moment. There could be a hybrid type of approach. There are many variables and a little more complicated than originally thought. Chairman Mallory suggested more discussions with Mooresville in order to provide more consistent service to developers without breaking the bank. Vice Chairman Norman believes there should be an office in Mooresville. Commissioner Johnson said an increase in operating costs at $415,000 with no increase in revenues is a poor business plan. Commissioner Bowles said an increased business plateau must be reached in order to justify the extra expenditures. Smith said the intent of this discussion was to make the Board aware of the conversations concerning this subject. He clarified the Board's reaction was that there is some interest but it may be better to partner with the Town of Mooresville and possibly have a hybrid approach. Commissioner Johnson said a county operated office would get business from Mooresville and the southern end of the County. If Mooresville operated the office then they would only get business from their jurisdiction. What is the cost of losing 30% of business as compared to retaining that business and driving down the $415,000 operational cost? June 21, 2016 7 Commissioner Robertson volunteered to call Miles Atkins for further discussion and info gathering. Commissioner Bowles said that if the County takes care of up fitting an office and it doesn't work out, the space could be used for something else. This item was placed on the consent agenda. Request from Administration for Approval of the Proposed Lease with Cornerstone of Victory Church, Inc.: Deputy County Manager Beth Jones said this request has been discussed in the past. The church approached the County in January of 2015 to lease a portion of land where DSS is located. The original discussion was about using the fields for dual purposes by the church and Parks/Recreation Department. Research found there would be a great deal of additional costs for on-site parking, etc. The Board said to eliminate the dual purpose and the burden was placed on Cornerstone Church to decide to move forward. They have surveyed the property which is 4.4 acres. There must a public notice published for thirty days before the actual execution of the lease. The terms are the same in that Cornerstone of Victory Church will lease the property for $1.00 per year. They will make improvements, build the fields, and absorb all costs associated with it. At any point in time the County needs the property then it reverts back to the County with an appropriate notice. The church will maintain and insure the fields for their recreational use. Commissioner Bowles asked if the timeframe of reverting back had a minimum. Jones said the lease is for five years with a ninety day notice to vacate, but there isn't a minimum amount of time if the County needs the property. Commissioner Johnson asked if the County was required to reimburse for the improvements. Jones said no. Lisa Valdez helped prepare the lease. Chairman Mallory asked about the city requirements. Jones said the church has made arrangements with the City for the requirements. The public notice will be published and then the Board can execute the lease. Smith asked if the lease could be contingent upon a no response to the public notice. County Attorney Bill Pope said that would be fine. Jones will inform the church of the Board's decision and will specify no work will begin until after the thirty day notice. This item was placed on the consent agenda. Request from Tax Administration to Approve Refunds and Releases: County Manager Ron Smith said everything was in order. This item was placed on the consent agenda. Request for Approval of the June 7, 2016 minutes: There were no corrections to the minutes. This item was placed on the consent agenda. June 21, 2016 The Board recessed at 6:47 PM until the regular meeting at 7:00 PM. IREDELL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MINUTES June 21, 2016 The Iredell County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, June 21, 2016 at 7:00 PM, in the Iredell County Government Center (Commissioners' Meeting Room), 200 South Center Street, Statesville, NC. Board Members Present Chairman James B. Mallory III Vice Chairman Marvin Norman Tommy Bowles Steve Johnson Ken Robertson Staff present: County Manager Ron Smith, County Attorney Bill Pope, Deputy County Manager Beth Jones, Finance Director Susan G. Robertson, Attorney Lisa Valdez, Assistant to the Manager Ben Stikeleather, and Clerk to the Board Retha Gaither. CALL TO ORDER by Chairman Mallory. INVOCATION: Chairman James Mallory asked everyone to bow their heads for a moment of silence. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE led by Chairman Mallory. PRESENTATION OF SPECIAL RECOGNITIONS & AWARDS (None) ADJUSTMENTS TO THE AGENDA: County Manager Ron Smith made the following adjustments to the agenda: Add: Appointments to Board and Commissions — Mitchell Community College Board of Trustees (1 Announce/Appoint). They have asked to suspend the rules to announce and appoint simultaneously because of the length of time to the next meeting. Unfinished Business — Request from the Finance Department for Approval to Amend the Cool Spring Elementary School Capital Project Ordinance. Unfinished Business — 1-77 Toll Lanes. (Chairman Mallory asked for this to be placed under New Business.) Closed Session — Personnel G.S. 143-318.11 (a) (6) and Property Acquisition G.S. 143-318.11 (a) (5) OTIO by Vice Chairman Marvin Norman to approve the agenda as adjusted. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 June 21, 2016 9 PRESENTATION OF SPECIAL RECOGNITIONS & AWARDS (None) PUBLIC HEARINGS (None) APPOINTMENTS BEFORE THE BOARD Presentation by Jeff Eads, Regional Director of Community Operations for Partners Behavioral Health: Mr. Eads addressed the Board as a representative from Partners Behavioral Healthcare. He was recently hired to serve as Director of Community Operations for the Northern region. His presentation was meant to make the Board and citizens aware of the resources offered by Partners. Chairman Mallory thanked Mr. Eads and stated that Partners has been a true partner. He thanked Partners for the most recent collaboration with the Veterans Transitional Housing. Also, the intervention programs for inmates with substance abuse and/or mental health issues have been most beneficial. Vice Chairman Norman asked Mr. Eads about the hub that Partner's is bringing to Iredell County. Eads said Partners has been working with the concept called the "Hub" in other counties. They are working diligently to open a Hub in Iredell near the Crisis Recovery Center off Signal Hill Extension. The main purpose is to integrate behavioral health needs for individuals with severe mental health issues with their primary care. Many clients have significant physical health issues in addition to their behavioral health care needs. By providing those individuals with a place where they can go, it will help to get the care they need. It is a safe place to present. There will be bed space if needed. Commissioner Bowles asked Mr. Eads to join the task force for substance abuse and will forward the information to him. Eads agreed. Request from ECOM for Approval to Purchase a Motorola MCC7500 Console for the Communications Center: ECOM Director Candy Strezinski gave a brief power point presentation about the ECOM Department. There are three things that make a successful communications center: Adequate staffing and support, quality training, and state of the art technology. Mission Critical recommended 33-36 telecommunicators with four supervisors, which means Iredell is understaffed by nine. ECOM is working with Mitchell Community College to provide certified and structured training classes in all disciplines with the focus on call -take, EMS, Fire, rescue and law enforcement. There are four primary sections of the technology components: phones, CAD (Computer Aided Dispatch), radio, and GIS/Mapping. Current ongoing projects include the installation of the Intrado, remote site installation in Mooresville, and text -to -91 I will be up and active within the next month. There has been a delay with connectivity because of Time Warner Cable. They have not been able to provide the service they bid on in 2014. Chairman Mallory asked if the County had been paying for a service that has not been received. June 21, 2016 10 Strezinski said yes. She has met with TWC several times. She is also meeting with the County Attorney and County Manager to determine the next steps. The Intrado solution is an IP based solution which is a diverse IP path. It allows exchange between neighboring PSAPs. It is a step toward the next generation of 911 technology. They have begun the steps toward purchasing the SunGard One Solution CAD for the center. It has CAD -to -CAD capability, as required by statutes, mapping integration, records management integration, DCl/NCIC integration, silent dispatch capable, and closest unit dispatch available. Currently there are five radio systems in Iredell County: UHF/VHF, Statesville owned radio system, Mooresville radio system (going away), USAI radio system (coming July 11, 2016) and VIPER radio. The County needs to go to an integrated solution which is the VIPER radio. The southern end has chosen the USAI radio system which is basically a competitor of VIPER and there isn't a lot of integration with the two systems. On-going projects are portable radios being purchased to outfit responders with 800 capable and dual -band, VIPER channels are up and running, MCC7500 radio console, microwave/receiver tower links and Fox to ECOM and ECOM to Mooresville. Chairman Mallory asked why some of the southern departments have adopted UASI. Strezinski can't answer as to why, but understands there was a county -wide meeting and the County chose to go with VIPER because of the monetary costs. The UASI system has a reoccurring annual fee but VIPER does not. Several agencies have decided to move to UASL Also, on the agenda is a request to purchase the MCC7500 which will be able to connect ECOM to Mooresville and is a required standardized equipment for the backup solution. The 7500 is recommended for the new center as well, in order to connect to Newton. Commissioner Johnson asked about the less expensive decoder as discussed during the pre - agenda session. Strezinski said it is an option to allow the identification of the caller. It would have to be "piece milled" together to make it work. That would solve an immediate issue to see IDs but it would not solve the issue of direct connect to the State or the standardization of the consoles for the back-up solution. Commissioner Johnson asked if it was the intent to purchase the MCC7500 anyway but the Mooresville decision to move forward compelled the acceleration to purchase. Strezinski said yes, that is correct. The MCC7500 is recommended for the new center in order to tie in with the State VIPER system as planned. Commissioner Bowles clarified that Mooresville will be the backup and Mooresville uses the 7500 as well. Strezinski said that is correct. They are implementing it in order to connect to the UASI system. Commissioner Johnson asked if future recommendations will be for this same type of console. Strezinski said yes, that is correct. There is a technology budget for the new center which should cover most of the technology. June 21, 2016 11 Commissioner Johnson said the recommendation to purchase this new machine would have been made as it relates to new ECOM but is being accelerated to accommodate Mooresville and an alternative would be stepping away from a plan already put into place. Strezinski said that is correct. A temporary solution could be implemented but it is prolonging the direction that ECOM is moving. Commissioner Robertson asked if the State was encouraging UASI or VIPER. Strezinski said VIPER is the State-wide system. UASI is an alternative with a significant monthly fee. Mooresville is paying a portion and the VFDs are paying the fee to be on that system. Commissioner Bowles said the UASI in Charlotte allows them to talk to public works and other City divisions that the fire departments need to communicate with as well. The VIPER system was given to the Highway Patrol and is a good system. Commissioner Johnson believes the initial attractiveness toward UASI is because they have taken a radio system and put infrastructure on the ground in an urban area and that it does work better in an urban environment. If there is an officer or fireman inside a building there is better reception. Over time there is narrowing in the difference in the level of operability between them, but presently UASI is well ahead. He feels it is best, at this point, to do what is necessary to accommodate. Commissioner Robertson said there are two systems with strong pulls both ways. Commissioner Bowles asked if the five radio systems will be combined into just two. Strezinski said there is now a county -wide radio group that has met twice in order to streamline operability and narrow the templates, programing, and radio systems. Commissioner Bowles asked to clarify that with UASI, mores users will decrease the cost. Strezinski said that is correct. Mooresville fronted the cost and more users will bring the cost down. Commissioner Bowles asked if both systems would accommodate the hand held/mobile radio on the 800. Strezinski said yes, they are both P25. Chairman Mallory asked Sheriff Campbell his opinion. Campbell believes the UASI has more bang for the buck. MOTION by Commissioner Bowles to approve the purchase of a MCC7500 console. Commissioner Johnson said he is in favor of the motion but would like to stress the benefit of this Board knowing the timeline of when this technology will be in place in order for the Board to monitor the pace and expenditures. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 County Manager Ron Smith summarized the consent agenda as follows: June 21, 2016 12 • Request from ECOM for approval of a MOU with the Town of Mooresville as an Emergency Communications Center backup. • Request from the Finance Department for approval to reallocate JCPC FYI funds. • Request form the Finance Department for approval of a five-year agreement with Bingham Arbitrage Rebate Services for the Mooresville High School GO bonds. • Request from the Finance Department for approval of BA#34 for the Workers Compensation Self -Insurance Fund. • Request from the Finance Department to authorize the demolition and removal of three houses on Short and Tradd Streets. • Request from the Register of Deeds to refund revenue stamps to the Law Office of Collum & Perry. • Request from Administration to discuss a south end Development Services office. (This was just a discussion and no action was needed.) • Request from Administration for approval of a proposed lease with Cornerstone of Victory Church, Inc. This is contingent on a public notice with no disputes of the lease. • Request from Tax Administration to approve refunds and releases. • Request for approval of the June 7, 2016 minutes. OTION by Vice Chairman Norman to approve the consent agenda except for the item concerning the south end Development Services office. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 ANNOUNCEMENT OF VACANCIES OCCURING ON BOARDS & COMMISSIONS APPOINTMENTS TO BOARD AND COMMISSIONS Chairman Mallory stated there is one dual announcement/appointment for the Mitchell Community College Board of Trustees. Normal procedure is to announce the vacancy and then appoint at the following meeting. However, due to the cancellation of the July 5 meeting, Mitchell has requested to move expeditiously to announce and appoint simultaneously. MOTION by Commissioner Tommy Bowles to suspend the rules to accommodate Mitchell's request for the announcement and approval at the same meeting. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 MOTION by Commissioner Ken Robertson to nominate Joe Troutman. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 Centralina Workforce Development Board (2 Appointments) OTIO by Commissioner Bowles to appoint Joey Chambers and Carl Larson to the Central Workforce Development Board. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 Region F Aging Advisory Committee (2 Appointments) MOTION by Vice Chairman Norman to appoint Liz Burns and Barbara Barrier. June 21, 2016 13 VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 Statesville Board of Adjustment ETJ (1 Appointment) MOTION by Vice Chairman Norman to appoint David Aman. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 UNFINISHED BUSINESS Request from the Finance Department for Approval to Amend the Cool Spring Elementary School Capital Project Ordinance: Finance Director Susan Robertson said the capital project ordinance for Cool Springs was adopted last year and included a clause that any transfer of funds between line items must have formal action by the Iredell -Statesville School Board and then reported to the Board of Commissioners in order to update the ordinance. This is the first requested transfer which moves $50,000 from testing, permitting, and other fees to transitional costs. They haven't spent the $800,000 contingency that was built into the budget and they are about 95% complete according to the latest construction draw. OTION by Commissioner Johnson to approve this request. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 PUBLIC COMMENT No one wished to speak. Commissioner Johnson asked to take liberty to share and offer encouragement to fellow citizens. "Two weeks from yesterday we willl celebrate the signing of the Declaration of Independence. We may ask ourselves, who were those men who pledged their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor. We must find it remarkable that these men would make such a declaration which was viewed as treason by the Crown. The penalty for such treason was to be tortured, hanged until unconscious, tortured further and dismemberment so that there were no remains left for burial. Of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, five were captured by the British and killed, twelve had homes ransacked and burned, two lost sons in the war, one had two sons captured, and nine died from wounds or hardship of war. Carter Braxton of Virginia was a wealthy planter/trader. He watched his ships be burned by the British Navy and he died impoverished. Thomas Kean kept himself and family in hiding and lost all of his worldly possessions. Francis Lewis's property was destroyed. His wife was imprisoned and she died in captivity. John Hart was driven from the bedside of his dying wife and his thirteen children fled for their lives. His home and commercial property were burned. He never saw his children again. He lived in a cave until the end of the war. His doctor said he died from exhaustion and a broken heart. John Hancock, argumentatively the wealthiest man in America at the signing of the Declaration of Independence, ordered the attack and bombardment of Boston, knowing that much of his own commercial property will be destroyed. To the testimony of his tenancy a few years after the war, he was once again argumentatively the wealthiest man in America. For nearly two hundred years prior to the signing of the Declaration of Independence an epic struggle had gone on for the western mind. These two competing philosophies for the western mind were, for the most part, dominated by the High Renaissance and the Protestant Reformation. The High Renaissance elevated the statue of man to the point that he was the center of all things, that man could begin with himself and address the dilemmas which comfort him. The Reformation advanced the idea that God was the center of June 21, 2016 14 the universe and the sustainer of all that exist. It maintained that man had been created morally upright and had fallen into sin. The fall had affected him negatively in regards to spiritually, morality, physically, emotionally, and intellectually. To solve the dilemmas which confronted him, man must begin with God and his law. To a man, the founder subscribed to the later. Of the nations that predominately accepted the view of the Renaissance came such men as Descartes who famously said, `I think, therefore, I am.' There was Rousseau and his idea of the noble savage. The Renaissance eventually gave way to the French Enlightment which produced the Age of Reason subsequently the French Revolution, the Reign of Terror and Napoleon Bonaparte. Of the men that adhered to the later thinking of the Protestant Reformation came Montesquieu (who was a Catholic and who brought about the reform of the Catholic Church later. But Montesquieu was the most quoted source in 1760/1770 by the founding fathers, who wrote `The Spirit of Laws.'), Grotius, Pufendorf, Vattel, Locke, Calvin, Luther, Huss, Smith, and Coke. These men, in writings, heavily influenced the founders. The Reformation gave way to the Scottish Reformation which gave way to the British Reformation which inevitably led to the American Revolution and the constitutional republic which has endured for 200 years. Previously the order had been Rex Lex (Rex is Latin for King and Lex is Latin for law) but now it is Lex Rex (the law is King). A governing document resulted which expressly limited the powers of government. It expanded individual liberty. If only one attribute of the founders can be mentioned, I believe the brilliance of the founding fathers had a proper understanding of human nature. The results of this understanding were a constitutional republic which has endured for over 200 years the separation of powers, the rule of law and lessen fair economics. Madison said it best, `What is one's view of government, but one's view of man.' In our time the struggle for the hearts and minds of men and women continues. One view expands freedom, ensures personal liberty and extols the dignity of the individual. The other always led to tyranny and enslavement. History is the surest witness of this. On this 4"' of July, let us give thanks that our founding fathers chose the right way and let us resolve in our hearts and minds not to depart from it. Thank you." Chainnan Mallory thanked Johnson and added, "The freedom we enjoy isn't free. It has been paid for in blood and treasure. It took great courage and foresight by the signers of the Declaration of Independence and subsequently the crafters of the constitution. They did so not knowing what the result would be which were, in many cases loss of family and in most cases loss of fortunes but not having lost their honor or place in history. As we honor them, during this holiday, let's remember the meaning and sacrifices that gave us the opportunity to celebrate our freedoms. Also, remember during the political discourse over the next several months, that many of the beliefs and proposals were hotly debated both in terms of the Declaration of Independence and subsequent constitutional convention that was held. None of those philosophies of the thinkers of that great day were reduced to a bumper sticker. It takes a great deal of effort, thought, and prayer to arrive at the best decisions in terms of the structure of government and in terms of administering government." NEW BUSINESS Chairman Mallory wanted to bring attention that the I-77 Toll Lane Project, the Cintra contract, has been addressed by the legislature in the House of Representatives (HB954) and was passed overwhelmingly to cancel the Cintra project. That matter has been taken up with a similar bill in the Senate. On June 15, shortly after passing the House bill and the Senate was considering what to do, the members of this Board were canvassed to determine whether or not to weigh in with thoughts on the issue. It was unanimous to commend Senator Curtis for co -sponsoring June 21, 2016 15 legislation mirroring HB954 to cancel the Cintra I-77 contract. A letter was sent to both Senator Curtis and Senator Brock for their consideration pointing out the Board's continued opposition to the contract. At this time, it is understood that the bill has been referred to the Transportation Committee, so there hasn't been a decision. Commissioner Johnson said he was contacted by Senator Curtis who was concerned about a visit to Raleigh and learning this legislation was losing its momentum. The leadership in the Senate was expressing uncertainty as to how to move forward. Curtis asked if the Board would consider a resolution. Because there was a deadline Chairman Mallory wrote a letter to Senator Curtis in advance of the resolution. There was a press conference and Senator Curtis requested permission to ensure the Senate leaders that a resolution was forthcoming. OTIO by Commissioners Johnson to adopt the following resolution, sign and forward to the State's legislative team. Commissioner Robertson said the issues are with part of the provisions of the contract. If the contract isn't negated as being void then there is a penalty provision. The penalty provision has many gray areas and some of the numbers of the penalty have been incredible high considering no lanes have been widened. Part of the concern and what will be discussed going forward is who pays the penalty. Iredell County or CRTPO did not create the contract. NCDOT created the contract and should be the agency responsible for paying the penalty. If they agree to break the contract and the penalty is paid from the NCDOT then other areas of the state will get less money for roads. Politicians from across the state will cast a vote based upon the impact of road dollars going to their districts. It has been discussed the penalty will be paid from CRTPO allocations which would mean it would come from road building/maintaining funds for our region alone which would significantly impact transportation plans for a decade. It is a bad contract, a bad concept and even though there will be a penalty to be paid, in the long run the region will be better. All the toll dollars from this region are dollars that would not be going to restaurants, etc. This contract will have a detrimental effect on the region but on the flip side if no lanes are added to 1-77 there will be a detrimental effect as well. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 A Resolution in Support of the Cancellation of the Contract with Cintra for the Construction of 1-77 Toll Roads Whereas, surface transportation is a vital component in the conduct of commerce and I-77 in particular is a primary corridor of commercial traffic through Iredell County; Whereas, the expeditious flow of goods and services is of unparalleled importance to the competitiveness of any county; Whereas, the existing contract with Cintra gives them exclusionary authority to construct, expand, and maintain the I-77 corridor and prohibit NCDOT efforts to remedy traffic congestion in the future; Whereas, the contract grants Cintra said exclusionary authority for a term of 50 years and will thereby negatively impact the economic growth of our county; Whereas, the effect of the 50 -year exclusionary contract will insulate Cintra from the concerns of the traveling public; June 21, 2016 16 Whereas, transportation improvements are inextricably linked to the rate of economic growth in Iredell County; Whereas, the costs to travelers is still unknown and raises legitimate concerns regarding the financial viability of the project; Whereas, the citizens of Iredell County have made it demonstrably clear that they are overwhelmingly opposed to the Cintra 1-77 toll contract; Therefore, be it resolved that the Iredell County Board of Commissioners supports efforts to cancel the Cintra contract, urge the legislature to adopt such legislation and encourage the governor to agree with such action. Adopted this 21 " day of June, 2016. COUNTY MANAGER'S REPORT County Manager Ron Smith reminded the Board they were invited to the Annual Recreation Advisory Summer meeting at 6:00 PM at the Outdoor Education Center, Thursday, June 23. Smith said during the next meeting on July 19, there will be a presentation (crafted by Smith, David Saleeby, and David Montgomery) about certain things to be considered through the course of the jail project. The jail design will cover the Water Street entrance, especially through the construction process and there will be limited access through that side of the building. There are certain measures that must be taken to flip the entrance to Stockton Street. The plan will include the cost and actions that need to take place. Smith said there was a fund transfer, recently approved, to move $50,000 of unspent funds in Development Services to basically encumber money for future changes in the inspections and permitting programs. The Munis program is not accomplishing what is needed and these funds will help toward moving in a different direction away from Munis. Smith said Administration (County Manager, Deputy County Manager, and Assistant to the County Manager) will begin part time office hours at the Government Center South. An office and conference room are under renovations. Once complete office hours will be placed on the web page. CLOSED SESSIONS Chairman Mallory asked for a motion to enter into Closed Session pursuant to G.S. 143- 318.11 (a) (4) for Economic Development; G.S. 143-318.11 (a) (6) Personnel, and G.S. 143-318.11 (a) (5) Property Acquisition. MOTION by Commissioner Steve Johnson. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 Chairman Mallory called the Board back into regular session at 9:50 PM and the following items were discuss in Closed Session June 21, 2016 17 OTION by Commissioner Ken Robertson to call for a public hearing on July 19, 2016 at 7:00 PM, regarding an economic development incentive of $1,225,000 over a five-year period for Project Sparrow based on a S70 million investment in Iredell County. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 OTION by Commissioner Steve Johnson to modify a prior resolution adopted by the Commissioners for Project Control, the company being Earth -Kind, Inc., to extend the requirement to provide a Certificate of Authority for the company no later than June 22, 2016 and further to authorize the County to execute the joint economic development agreement with Earth -Kind, Inc. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 ADJOURNMENT OTION by Commissioner Steve Johnson to adjourn at 9:55 PM. (The next meeting will be Tuesday, July 19, 2016, 7:00 PM, in the Commissioners' Meeting Room, Pre -Agenda Discussion at 5:30 PM in the South Wing Conference Room, Government Center, 200 South Center Street, Statesville, NC) VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 Date Approved Retha C. Gaither, Clerk June 21, 2016 18