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HomeMy WebLinkAboutFebruary 7 2017 Regular MinutesIREDELL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS PRE -AGENDA MINUTES February 7, 2017 The Iredell County Board of Commissioners met in pre -agenda session on Tuesday, February 7, 2017 at 5:00 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 Tommy Bowles Gene Houpe Jeff McNeely Marvin Norman Staff present: County Manager Ron Smith, County Attorney Lisa Valdez, Deputy County Manager Beth Jones, Finance Director Susan Robertson, 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 to the agenda: Addition: A map and budget amendment #17.2 was added to Item VIII.I for Parks and Recreation. Appointments to Boards and Commissions—Personnel Advisory (I Appointment) and ISS Facility Task Force (7 Appointments). Smith said surveys from Elmwood Strong were submitted earlier in the day and they have asked that the vote be delayed on the text amendments to the Land Development Code. The surveys will be forwarded to the Board as soon as possible. PRESENTATIONS OF SPECIAL RECOGNITIONS & AWARDS Chairman Mallory said the matter concerning the resolution for judgeship will be delayed as he is waiting on additional information. The Judicial District 22 (Davie, Davidson, Iredell and Alexander) was split into two districts 22A (Iredell, Alexander) and District 22B (Davie, Davidson). At the time there were eleven district court judges which gave 22A 5 judges and 22B 6 judges. Due to growth there continues to be challenges with the court dockets. A resolution will be created and sent to legislators asking for funding of another judge in this district. Clerk of Court Jim Mixson is also working to gather data for this resolution. Mallory asked if the Board would be willing to leave this open and once the resolutions are complete they could be circulated to each member or would they prefer to bring it to the next meeting. Vice Chairman Bowles suggested to get it to the legislators as soon as possible. Other members agreed. Chairman Mallory will send the resolution to the County Manager for distribution to other board members. February 7, 2017 PUBLIC HEARINGS (None) ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS Request from the Parks and Recreation Department to review and discuss the interlocal agreement for the relocation of the ropes challenge course to the South Iredell High School property: Parks and Recreation Director Michelle Hepler said the current draft agreement is a revised version that was presented and approved by the School Board on Monday night. This agreement will also provide some collaborative framework for future partnerships between the County and the school systems. The Park Fund will transfer $129,000 into the General Fund and will still maintain the required amount for Jennings Park project. There is an additional $9,800 in the current operating budget which can be dedicated to this project as well. Vice Chairman Bowles asked if there would be any vertical structures and if any structures will be moved from the existing site. Hepler said it is their hope to reuse as much as possible but the problem is the transport and the man -power needed to remove and reconstruct. Vice Chairman Bowles asked if there would be a fence around the property. Hepler said the current site is not fenced. Each individual structure, by design, has access prevention built in. The school system asked the same question but it was not guaranteed. Commissioner McNeely asked about a gate into the property. Hepler said parks are gated and it is planned to do the same on this property. This item was placed on the consent agenda. Chairman Mallory and other members of the Board expressed their appreciation for the work on this agreement which may lead to other similar agreements. Mallory also asked that the department be aware and keep track of the second and third order effects of this move, such as trash or incidental costs. BA#17.2 To Transfer from Future Parks Fund to General Fund for costs 2/7/2017 associated with relocating the Ropes Course Account # Current Chane Amended 104880 495036 Transfer from Future Parks (75,000) (129,000) (204,000) 105655 610000 Depreciable Assets 172,665 129,000 301,665 Iredell County, North Carolina Amended Capital Project Ordinance Future Parks Projects Be it Ordained by the Board of County Commissioners of Iredell County, North Carolina: 6/16/2016 2/7/17 Amended Amended Section 1. Funds for this Capital Project Fund will be provided from the following sources: Ordinance Amendment Ordinance Transfer from Parks Capital Reserve Fund 4754880 495036 $ 700,910 $ 700,910 February 7, 2017 Transfer from Scotts Rosenwald 4754880 495036 Investment Earnings 4754040 480000 Stumpy Creek Launch Fees 4754655 471420 Transfers from General Fund 4754880 495010 Section 2. The following costs shall be paid from this fund: Park Development & Construction Transfer to Scotts Rosenwald Park Fund Transfer to General Fund -Stumpy Creek Paving Project Electronic Gates Carolina Thread Trail Grant Match Ropes Course Relocation 750 S 750 3,200 3,200 37,000 37,000 25,000 25,000 S 766,860 S 766,860 4755655 520005 S 363,510 4755655 576000 127,650 4755800 576010 190,700 4755800 576010 10,000 4755800 576010 75,000 4755800 576010 - (129,000) 234,510 - 127,650 190,700 10,000 75,000 Section 3. This Capital Project Fund shall continue until the projects are complete. Section 5. Payments from this Capital Project Fund shall be authorized by the County Manager or his designee. This Amended Capital Protect Ordinance adopted February 7. 2017 Request the Public Library to apply for a LSTA grant in the amount of $100,000 to purchase a RFID/self-check system: Library Director Steve Messick said this is a request for a grant from the State Library for a RFID/self-check system. A letter of intent was submitted and a positive response was received requesting a full application. This system will be used to check books in/out much faster and more efficiently. It will check up to ten books at a time instead of one at a time. There will be self -serve kiosks for the public. It will also function as an anti -theft security and a more efficient inventory. The total budget is $125,000. The grant amount is $100,000. The local match is $25,000. There is $28,000 in the current budget for matching funds. The grants are announced in June and if awarded a vender will be selected in the fall with implementation to begin in January of 2018. Several surrounding county libraries have been given this grant and are currently using this system. This item was placed on the consent agenda. Request from the Public Library for approval to apply for discounted Internet access under the Federal Communications Commission's E -Rate program: Library Director Steve Messick said this is an annual request through the Federal Coin munications Commission to provide discounted internet access for public schools and public libraries. The library will receive a discount up to 60% on internet access for all three libraries. The total cost for internet for FYI 8 will be $21,756 under existing contracts. The E -Rate will cover $13,053 with the remainder funded by the County. This item was placed on the consent agenda. Request from the Finance Department for approval of BA#18 to accept and appropriate an additional $30,000 in JCPC Level II Funding to Barium Springs TASK Program: Finance Director Susan Robertson said Iredell County has been awarded an additional $30,000 for Level II JCPC funding. This is for the program TASK (Treatment Alternatives for February 7, 2017 Sexualized Kids). The estimated cost of this program is $21,000 per child. It is very intense and last on average of 290 days. The idea is to provide safety in the community, and a hands-on approach with the children. There's contact at least three times a week with 24/7 support, treatment, and case management. It is run by Children's Hope Alliance (formerly Barium Springs). The County did not apply for the money, the NC Department of Public Safety reached out to the County. There is no local match but the funds must flow through the County. Chairman Mallory asked how far $30,000 would go. Robertson said Children's Hope Alliance has some foundation money that will be added in order to treat at least two more children. This item was placed on the consent agenda. BA#18 To recognize additional Level II JCPC Funds and appropriate for Barium 2/7/2017 Springs Home for Children TASK program. Account# I Current Chane Amended 394486 434125 JCPC Level II Disposition Fund (50,000) (30,000) (80,000) 395486 563500 Level II TASK Program 50,000 30,000 80,000 Request from Tax Administration to accept the report of unpaid tax liens and set the advertising date for March 15, 2017: Tax Administrator Bill Furches said it is required by law to come before the Board on the first meeting in February to report the total amount of unpaid taxes that are liens on real property for the current tax year. This report is available in the office of the Clerk to the Board. The Board must set a date to advertise tax liens and Tax Administration is requesting Wednesday, March 15 as the date. Chairman Mallory ask how much discretion is available for citizens to try to work things out. Furches said they work really hard to work things out with citizens. However, sometimes they ask only after it has gone on for many years and it is too late. Furches said Iredell is one of the most lenient of the larger counties in the State. This item was placed on the consent agenda. Request from Tax Administration for approval of BA#19 to appropriate fund balance assigned for Planimetrics Improved Image Resolution and ChangeFinder Change Detection and approve amendment to the agreement with Pictometry: Tax Administrator Bill Furches said this request is to approve a budget amendment to appropriate fund balance assigned for reappraisal for new Planimetrics Improve Image Resolution and ChangeFinder Change Detection. Also to approve an amendment to the current agreement with Pictometry. This will improve the base maps and imagery used by county departments and will update records which will be used for future reappraisals. Pictometry is used by several agencies in the County, such as emergency agencies, building inspections, and Planning. The current planimetrics are made from a 2005 flyover. The 2017 flyover is already contracted and will produce superior six-inch resolution across the entire county. Planimetrics will be based on the 2014 imagery and after the planimetrics are established the contractor will update them to 2017 and apply ChangeFinder Change Detection which will identify all the changes made between 2014 and 2017. The flyover will take place sometime this week. February 7, 2017 4 Vice Chairman Bowles asked how differences are reconciled. Tax Assessor Melia Miller said Pictometry, GIS, and former surveys are all taken into consideration. This item was placed on the consent agenda. BA#19 To appropriate Fund Balance Assigned for Reappraisal for new Planimetrics 2/7/2017 $77,340, Change Finder $30,400, and imagery S 14,710 Account# Current Chane Amended 104880 499450 Appro Fund Balance- Reappraisal (122,450) (122,450) 105436 537508 Contracted Services- Other 242,044 122,450 364,494 Request from Fire Services and Emergency Management on behalf of Trinity VFD to appoint trustees to the Fire Relief Fund as required by the NC Office of the State Fire Marshal: Director Kent Greene said this is a request on behalf of Trinity VFD to appoint a replacement member to their Fire Relief Fund Board of Directors as required by the Office of State Fire Marshal. The former member passed away and the VFD did not realize they needed to have a replacement member until they received a letter from the State office. Mr. Kent Moore has been recommended. This item was placed on the consent agenda. Request from Fire Services and Emergency Management for final approval of transfers to the Sheffield-Calahaln VFD fire insurance district: Director Kent Greene said this is a culmination of a year-long process to re -draw the fire insurance district boundary between Lone Hickory and Sheffield-Calahaln VFD. It moved a portion of Reavis Road into the Sheffield- Calahaln district which is at an ISO Class 5 compared to Lone Hickory's Class 9. Once this is approved by the County Commissioners, maps are drawn and sent to the State Fire Marshal for final approval. Vice Chairman Bowles asked if both departments are on board with this request. Greene said yes. Request from the Finance Department for award of a 3 -year contract to Farmer's Mulch & Rock to perform yard waste grinding services at Solid Waste: Purchasing and Contract Manager Dean Lail said this is a request for approval of a formal bided three-year yard waste grinding agreement at Solid Waste. This agreement came due and the previous contractor (Farmer's Mulch) had increased rates. Therefore formal bids were taken. The lower bidder was again Farmer's Mulch. This item was placed on the consent agenda. Request from the Finance Department for approval of a sole -source award to purchase additional Northwoods modules and related services for the imaging project at the Department of Social Services: Purchasing and Contract Manager Dean Lail said this is a continuation of a project. The Northwoods project was awarded in 2010 and has progressively been adding all divisions of Social Services with the last group being the Child Support Division. The sole -source agreement must work with the current program. The current cost will be $73,600 and future costs will only be for annual support at $3,600. February 7, 2017 5 This item was placed on the consent agenda. Request from the Planning Division for approval of the text amendment to the Land Development Code: Chairman Mallory said there is a request from Elmwood Strong to delay the decision for another two weeks to allow the Board to review surveys. This will be on the agenda for February 21. Chairman Mallory asked for an executive summary from all of the surveys. Request from ICATS for approval to add one administrative position to help with work load due to the North Carolina Medicaid reform: ICATS Director Brad Johnson could not attend, but Assistant to the County Manager Ben Stikeleather filled in for him. Stikeleather said the State has reformed the Medicaid transportation process which means it will require a double entry of information. Once into the trip scheduling system and once into the Medicaid payment system. Currently the systems do not communicate. Average Medicaid trips are 3,000 per month. Therefore due to the work load the request is for one additional staff position. There are lapsed salary funds that would cover the cost in the current budget year but this position would be added in the new budget requests. Chairman Mallory asked about the added value. Stikeleather said the State provided a system called NC Tracts. The hope was to cut down on potential Medicaid fraud. Several audits in Iredell County resulted in a spotless record, but this has not been the case across the State. Commissioner McNeely asked if this position would go away if the work load gets easier. Stikeleather said he could not answer as he had not discussed this with Mr. Johnson. However, ICATS is an enterprise agency and this will not impact the General Fund. Chairman Mallory asked if there was any way to obtain relief from this. Stikeleather feels the State has decided this is the path. This item was placed on the consent agenda. Request from Iredell Statesville Schools for adoption of resolutions supporting requested legislation of the North Carolina Congress: County Manager Ron Smith said these resolutions are proposed as joint between the County Commissioners, ISS, and the Mooresville Graded School District. There are resolutions to "support a balanced accountability model for all public schools," "support local control and flexibility with the public school calendar," and "support local flexibility concerning class size legislation." Chairman Mallory stated that the statistics quoted in the first paragraph of the third resolution should be removed. The Board agreed to remove this paragraph and with this change this item was placed on the consent agenda. Request by Administration for adoption of the updated Rules of Procedure: Clerk to the Board Retha Gaither said the final draft of the Rules of Procedure updates were included in the agenda packet. The review committee agreed on all changes except one. The committee believed February 7, 2017 6 the entire Board should decide on the section concerning the suspension of rules, whether it should be a unanimous vote or a quorum vote. The previous rules stated a 2/3 vote of the members present. Commissioner McNeely feels it should be a unanimous vote because changing the rules will set a precedence and it should be only for important issues and that all members of the Board should agree on that importance. It also protects the minority. Commissioner Houpe feels it should be a majority. Typically the Chairman insures that all interested parties are heard and that most boards operate with a majority vote. Vice Chairman Bowles said that with the current political climate, people are not happy with changing the rules. Commissioner Norman feels it should stay as it was previously. Chairman Mallory asked if there is a recommended policy among other county commissions or from the Institute of Government. Gaither said she had not researched other counties for this particular rule but will do so. Chairman Mallory feels it would be beneficial to know the recommendation. This is a procedural vote as opposed to a substantive vote, but the desire is to seek unanimity. However, if any member of the Board has concerns about moving forward that was not out -weighed by some truly exigent circumstances then he would not vote to suspend the rules. Gaither will research and forward the information to the Board. Commissioner McNeely asked about the expiration dates for committees because it was suggested to have all expirations once a year on December 31. Gaither said research had shown that several committees have it written in their by-laws to end on June 30 or December 31. Commissioner Houpe asked about changing the issue with new business. Chairman Mallory said that would fall with the suspension of Hiles. However, if any new business involves discussion or enlightenment with no substantive action on anything that is non- controversial then it could be handled. If there is any substantive issue that needs a vote or action it should be deferred to the next meeting to have an opportunity to research or review the subject. This item will be placed on the agenda for February 21. Request from the Clerk to the Board for approval of minutes from the meeting on January 17, 2017: There were no changes to the minutes and this item was placed on the consent agenda. ANNOUNCEMENTS OF VACANCIES ON BOARD AND COMMISSIONS Chairman Mallory will make these announcements at the regular session. APPOINTMENT BEFORE THE BOARD (Briefing) Chairman Mallory said two years ago the County joined with Statesville to fund a full-time Airport Manager. The County is paying 1/3 of the salary of Mr. John Ferguson. There were a February 7, 2017 number of operational issues that needed full-time attention. Once those issues were addressed the manager was instructed to turn attention to marketing of the developing property. Airport Commission Chairman Steve Johnson said the lag of the maintenance has been completed. However, there is still one lingering issue. The airport is currently caught between old and new technology. The old technology is land based but the new technology is GPS. The problem is that GPS is largely on higher end aircraft. Better than 80% of the aircraft that lands at Statesville Airport, in adverse weather conditions, still use a land based approach. The airport's localizer is more than 15 years old, and will cost $200,000 to $250,000 to update. With 80% of the customers using old technology, it is impossible to forsake it. The money will have to be spent to bridge the gap between that technology and the future. Commissioner Houpe asked if there could be any help from the federal government. Johnson said yes. It will be in the budget that will be submitted to Finance. Anything related to safety will be labeled Air 21. The County will be asked to contribute 5% of that cost. Usually anything requested of Air 21 is granted, particularly if it applies to safety. Commissioner McNeely asked if $13,000-$15,000 was the expected amount. Johnson said yes. Chairman Mallory asked if this would be paid up -front and reimbursed. Johnson said it would happen in the same budget year. Vice Chairman Bowles asked if there would be a time when the airport would need both the upgrade and the GPS models at the same time. Johnson said yes, there will be an overlap period. Vice Chairman Bowles asked the estimated cost of the GPS. Johnson said there is an existing technology that is satellite based. When a pilot approaches the air field they can see planes taxiing on the taxiway. It requires a ground based apparatus to communicate to the satellite, but it is not very expensive. In regards to fire safety at the airport, that will be on the next agenda with a report to the Board within 30-45 days. In regards to the transportation side, there are a few more moving parts and a report should be ready within 60 days. Mr. Ferguson has made several trips to Charlotte and Johnson feels Charlotte will become a hub which will force GA aircraft off of their field and they will come to Statesville. Mr. Ferguson has a good working relationship with existing tenants. Victory Air added four aircraft before the end of 2016 which are $4 million each. Since the beginning of 2017, they have added two more and it is expected they will add another one within the next 60 days. This will bring their total investment to $28 million at the Statesville Airport. Commissioner McNeely said Concord Airport is 80% built out with very little room left. Johnson said the addition of those seven aircraft puts Statesville Airport out of room. He apologized that during his tenure on the Board he never officially made a motion but felt the general consensus of this Board was to support the airport. The original asked was $112,000 per year but would to like to ask for $250,000 per year for the next two years. Land has become available. The plan on the airport is approved by the FAA and NCDOT. Any property acquisition February 7, 2017 8 will be reimbursed 90%. Johnson said he serves at the pleasure of the Board and if any member feels there should be a change in policy then he will do whatever he can. Commissioner Houpe asked the specific role of this Board. Johnson said there has not been a leading role in the acquisition of property. But during his tenure on the Board and on the Airport Committee he played an influential role as far as steering toward property to develop. Chairman Mallory asked if the Airport Manager was coordinating with the two EDCs in terms of marketing. Johnson said yes, to some extent. Johnson is not a fan of incentives at the airport. The Statesville Airport has a 7,000 foot runway which not many have and therefore should be the incentive. Commissioner McNeely asked about the City of Statesville proceeding to buy the property. Johnson clarified to not confuse two acquisitions. The original aspect was 33 acres with the intention of developing 11.5 acres. Out of the 33, there are 29 acres that are developable. There is another piece of potential property adjacent to the 33 acres. Johnson said he did not feel comfortable asking for additional funds for the second potential property until the airport could demonstrate positive results with the money already given. In full disclosure, Johnson hopes that in 4-5 years the airport can come back to this board showing a firm foundation and ask the Board to roll the money back into the funding. He added that in the 20 years he has served on this committee, they have never come to this board over budget. The Board recessed at 6:55 PM until the 7:00 PM regular session. IREDELL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MINUTES February 7, 2017 The Iredell County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, February 7, 2017, 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 Tommy Bowles Gene Houpe Jeff McNeely Marvin Norman Staff present: County Manager Ron Smith, County Attorney Lisa Valdez, Deputy County Manager Beth Jones, Finance Director Susan Robertson, 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. February 7, 2017 PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE led by Chairman Mallory. ADJUSTMENTS TO THE AGENDA County Manager Ron Smith reported the following adjustments: Addition: Appointments to Boards and Commissions — Personnel Advisory (1 Appointment) and ISS Facility Task Force (7 Appointments). MOTION by Commissioner Gene Houpe to adopt the agenda as amended. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 PRESENTATION OF SPECIAL RECOGNITIONS & AWARDS Recognition of the Iredell County Board of Health who was awarded the Outstanding Board of Health by the Association of NC Boards of Health: Chairman Mallory asked the Chairman and the Vice Chairman of the Board of Health to come to the front for the presentation. Chairman Mallory read the plague which said, "Outstanding leadership in protecting the health of Iredell County residents through the adoption of a Rabies Control Rule and a Mosquito Control Rule. They were also instrumental in advocating for the adoption of a revised Iredell County Animal Control Ordinance that addressed public health concerns related to primates and hybrid dogs and cats." Vice Chairman Tommy Bowles, who also serves on the Health Board, said Ms. Sylvia Chapman, Chairman, is a strong, confident lady and Rob Monson, Vice Chairman is a southern gentleman. Bowles continued by reading a little more of their qualifications which accentuates their expertise to serve on this Board. APPOINTMENTS BEFORE THE BOARD John Ferguson will present a report and update on the Statesville Airport: Airport Manager John Ferguson gave a brief background on his credentials. The first impression that a CEO of a company will get when travelling is the airport. General information about the airport includes: runway is 7,006 feet x 100 feet; corporate aircraft of almost any size can land and depart; airport controlled by the Atlanta Center; services include aircraft instruction, aircraft sales, hanger rental, aircraft repair, car rentals, and concierge services. The annual economic benefit of the Statesville Regional Airport includes 290 jobs, a payroll of $9,490,000 with an economic impact of $40,680,000. Some of the corporate residents include Champion Air, Victory Air, GMS Racing, Brad Kesolowski Racing, Lowe's Aviation, IOMAX, JRM Air, G. L. Wilson, GB Aviation, XPO Freight, and even some military. The main topic, however, is the marketing of the airport which means there needs to be an increase in the number of hangers and jet aircraft on the field. Currently there are no spaces to add hangers. The Airport Commission voted to purchase 33 acres which will allow 10-12 hangers to be developed in the first three phases. This will bring multiple million dollar aircraft on each one. The first customer is Victory Air who is in the process of building a 40x 100 operations building which will be attached to a 15,000 square foot hanger planned for later this year. Currently, Victory Air has $28,000,000 in aircraft on the field. Ferguson introduced the Chairman of the Airport Commission, Steve Johnson and City Councilman Jap Johnson who was in attendance as well. February 7, 2017 10 Airport Commission Chairman Steve Johnson thanked the Board for their continued confidence. He feels the Statesville Airport is a great asset and that the changes in the Charlotte area will result in more tax base at the Statesville airport than anywhere in the County. While on the Board of Commissioners it was discussed numerous times but it was not specifically put into a motion. Originally the talk was about $112,500 per year over a two year period, but because of the recent development plus the additional aircraft and the potential to locate other aircraft, the request is to commit $250,000 per year for the next two years. The acquisition of the property can make considerable progress in the development of the 11.5 acres. This will be done in a manner that will alleviate the need of another request until the airport can show a positive result with the trust shown by this Board. As a reminder, 90% of the money invested is reimbursed from the FAA and NCDOT. The investment of $500,000 will be tied -up for a while but all will be returned except for $50,000. However, full disclosure, the airport commission will return to show the development of this property and with a new business plan with the hopes that the County will reinvest those funds. For the continuous progressive operation of this airport, the acquisition of this property is foundational with a long-term goal of a 9,000 foot -long regional transport airport which will be a huge economic engine in this county. Commissioner McNeely asked how fast this decision needs to be made. Johnson said it is of the upmost importance that it is done now. The City of Statesville has already voted to acquire the property with the assurance that the County Board had discussed it and that the consensus was for participation. The Airport Manager is being asked to market the airport, but there is no room. Commissioner Houpe clarified that the City made a move knowing that this Board has been a good partner and that the expedited approach plus the increase in funding is for economic growth that would have a great impact on the tax base. Johnson again apologized for not "sewing this up before he left this board" but knew it was the consensus of this Board to proceed. Chairman Mallory asked what sources of revenue are available for the airport, what is subject to ad valorem taxes and the timeframe for buildout. Ferguson said the revenue generated by the airport is from land rentals and fuel flowage fees. There are Vision 100 grants that are awarded every year from the FAA. The airport is not going to actually build hangers but will provide pad -ready sites. Parrish & Partners, who are the consultants, will take the 2016 Vision 100 grant and prepare a design plan of the first 11 acres. That will allow the airport to be bid ready. Then the airport will ask NCDOT Aviation for $2.5 million for the actual construction at a 90% grant. There are several other grants through the FAA as well. Also, CRTPO and state funding is being researched as well. Ad valorem taxes will be collected on the aircraft and hangers that are built. The 90% return for the land acquisition could be anywhere from one to three or four years. Communication will be constant and it really helps to show dedication with the land being purchased up -front. Chairman Mallory commented that since the County's funding of $500,000 will be tied up for over two years, then it is assumed the City of Statesville will be able to work the $2.5 million themselves. February 7, 2017 I 1 Ferguson said that would be a bridge to cross later, but sometimes land acquisition is a lower priority than construction. It is possible to receive the construction money before the land money. The County will be reimbursed as soon as the land money is received. Chairman Mallory said this is a two year process and the Board wants to support the airport. However, there is a limited economic development budget. This is a wise investment but the budget is stretched. So when the time comes for pad prep, the County has already blown the budget for two years. The County views Statesville Airport as an economic asset and it is imperative to start this process and move forward as soon as possible. Commissioner Houpe pointed out that, on average, one corporate jet equals 100 homes in tax value. Johnson said, in regards to the $2.5 million, it can be done incrementally. The airport can develop one pad -ready site for one potential tenant and begin to collect. It would still be reimbursable provided it is in the ALP and the NCDOT has approved. Commissioner McNeely said Statesville Airport is a place of maximum effect. The economic development budget has not been touched this year. Vice Chairman Bowles asked about the corporate tenants. Is it a ground lease? Do they build on the airport's pad and if anything happens, does it remain property of the airport? Ferguson said that is correct, if they give up their lease or sign it to someone else. Also, at the end of 25 years the building becomes the property of the City, which will then be leased as a building at that point. PRESENTATION OF SPECIAL RECOGNITIONS & AWARDS (Continued) Chairman Mallory said there is a resolution that the Board is considering to request state legislators to authorize and fund a sixth district court judge for Iredell County. This is based on the fact that the population has increased to the point where the judicial system needs to expand its capacity. The Clerk of Court is researching data pertaining to per capita cases and a variety of data to show the need for that judgeship. Once this data is complete the resolution will be circulated to members of the Board. Mallory asked if there was a motion to authorize the circulation and feed- back to the County Manager and then allow the Chairman to sign the resolution in order for it to be sent to the legislative team along with the respective Alexander Commissioners and executive members of the Republican and Democratic parties. OTION by Commissioner Norman to approve VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 PUBLIC HEARINGS (None) ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS County Manager Ron Smith summarized the following items for the consent agenda: February 7, 2017 12 • Request from the Parks and Recreation Department for approval of an interlocal agreement for the relocation of the ropes challenge course to the South Iredell High School property and approval of budget amendment # 17.2. • Request from the Public Library to apply for a LSTA grant in the amount of $100,000 to purchase a RFID/self-check system. • Request from the Public Library for approval to apply for discounted internet access under the Federal Communications Commission's E -Rate program which would save $13,000. • Request from the Finance Department for approval of BA #18 to accept and appropriate an additional $30,000 in JCPC Level II Funding to Barium Springs TASK Program. • Request from Tax Administration to accept the report of unpaid tax liens and set the advertising date for March 15, 2017. • Request from Tax Administration for approval of BA #19 to appropriate fund balance assigned for Planimetrics Improved Image Resolution and ChangeFinder Change Detection and approve amendment to the agreement with Pictometry. • Request from Fire Services and Emergency Management on behalf of Trinity VFD to appoint trustees to the Fire Relief Fund as required by the NC Office of the State Fire Marshal. • Request from Fire Services and Emergency Management for final approval of transfers to the Sheffield Calahaln VFD fire insurance district. • Request from the Finance Department for award of a 3 -year contract to Farmer's Mulch & Rock to perform yard waste grinding services at Solid Waste. • Request from the Finance Department for approval of a sole -source award to purchase additional Northwoods modules and related services for the imaging project at Department of Social Services. • Request from ICATS for approval to add one administrative position to help with work load due to the North Carolina Medicaid reform and NC Tracks. • Request from Iredell Statesville Schools for adoption of resolutions supporting requested legislation of the North Carolina General Assembly. These are three joint resolutions with MGSD and ISS. • Request from the Clerk to the Board for approval of minutes from the meeting on January 17. 2017. MOTION by Commissioner Houpe to approve the consent agenda. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 Request from the Planning Division for approval of the text amendment to the Land Development Code: County Manager Ron Smith said this concerned several items pertaining to quarries, mining and such. The Board received a letter from Elmwood Strong asking for a two week delay to follow up on some surveys distributed to the community. This was removed from the consent agenda and requires a motion to delay until February 21. MOTION by Commissioner McNeely to table this decision until February 21. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 February 7, 2017 13 Request by Administration for the adoption of the updated Rules of Procedure: County Manager Ron Smith said the item was discussed at the pre -agenda and it was recommended to have more research. This was not part of the consent agenda. MOTION by Vice Chairman Bowles to table this matter until February 21. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 Chairman Mallory commented on the interlocal agreement between Iredell County and the Iredell County Board of Education. He stated this is a collaborative use of school property for recreation purposes. This is the first time it has been done and it can be a model for future cooperation to be able to leverage money that the County has already spent to be able to purchase land for schools. However, in some areas of the County, schools are unable to use some of the acreage due to water shed regulations. This collaborative effort represents a win-win effort because some of that unused land can be utilized for recreational fields, ropes course, etc. He expressed appreciation to the Education Task Force, Commissioners Norman and Houpe, and to the Iredell Statesville School Board. Chairman Mallory commented on the three resolutions with Iredell Statesville Schools. The Board adopted one resolution that relates to the ability of public schools to align the calendar with the community college. Senator Curtis has agreed to introduce this legislation to align the calendar between public schools and community colleges. The other resolution is concerning the lowering of the number of students in classes K-3. Fewer children in a class is better for teaching, however, it is a mandate that did not come with funding and the impacts will be significant to the schools. The third resolution speaks to the A -F grading system which has been based on 80% performance and 20% growth which results in an inequitable and incorrect depiction of the success or lack of success of a school. Many schools have a large population that starts at a lower point in terms of proficiency but Iredell County teachers perform an amazing job of advancing these students. The resolution asks legislation to revise the grading schedule to give greater weight to growth, not just performance. ANNOUNCEMENT OF VACANCIES OCCURING ON BOARDS & COMMISSIONS Board of Equalization and Review (6 Announcements) — Chairman Mallory stated that Ken Pritchard and Hal Jolly have completed six terms on this Board. By law they cannot be reappointed for at least a year but their service is greatly appreciated. again. APPOINTMENTS TO BOARD AND COMMISSIONS Personnel Advisory Board (1 Appointment) — Robert Bennett has volunteered to serve MOTION by Vice Chairman Bowles to appoint Robert Bennett. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 Iredell Statesville Schools Facilities Task Force (7 Appointments) — Chairman Mallory said there are several individuals that have expressed interest in serving but have not submitted applications. OTION by Commissioner Norman to table these appointments until February 21. February 7, 2017 14 VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 UNFINISHED BUSINESS (None) NEW BUSINESS (None) COUNTY MANAGER'S REPORT County Manager Ron Smith gave an update of the following items: • Golden Leaf—The Board indorsed three Golden Leaf letters of interest for the Mooresville - South Iredell EDC business park road extension, the Iredell-Statesville Early College program at North Iredell High School, and the Fort Dobb's expansion project. The business park road addition and the early college have been invited to complete the full application. This is basically step two of the process. The applications are due March 10. There will be actual visits during March and April and the Board will vote on the proposals on June 1. • Medical Director— Dr. Brian Beaver is on staff and has been working with EMS. He has been introduced at the hospitals. EMS Director Richey is scheduling visits with the VFDs and rescue squads. Jail and Public Safety Complex — 95% of the preconstruction work for the jail is done. The next thing to move is the entrance wall inside the Hall of Justice which will begin on February 18. Construction trailers are in and utilities have been moved. Construction drawings will be complete mid-March and will be submitted to the local and state review offices. Bids should be in late -April which will establish the guaranteed maximum price which will be the fine-tuned budget number. That will come before the Board in late May. The public safety complex is two months behind the jail but the overall construction is only 14 months, the jail is 20 months. Chairman Mallory said that even though Fort Dobbs did not make the cut for the grants, they are progressing with the construction. CLOSED SESSIONS MOTION by Commissioner McNeely to enter into closed session (8:15 PM) for the purpose of Attorney Client G.S. 143-318.11 (a) (3); Economic Development G.S. 143-318.11 (a) (4); and Property Acquisition G.S. 143-318.11 (a) (5) VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 Chairman Mallory said the Board has resumed in open session for the sake of the Airport Committee. The Economic Development subject was discussed as outline earlier. MOTIO by Commissioner Houpe to approve and continue the partnership with the City of Statesville and the airport and to approve a total of $250,000 for this year and a pledge that the Board intends on allocating an additional $250,000 in next year's budget process. Commissioner McNeely expressed his appreciation to the City of Statesville for taking a leap of faith and assured them that the Board of Commissioners are willing to help. February 7, 2017 15 VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 Chairman Mallory recessed the Board again into Closed Session at 8:22 PM The Board returned to open session at 9:25 PM. OTION by Commissioner McNeely to extend the time period in which to execute a contract with Nu -Tec Systems by 180 days and re -approve an economic incentive of $61,200 over a five-year period on the company's investment of $3.1 million. VOTING: Ayes — 5; Nays — 0 ADJOURNMENT MOTION by Commissioner Marvin Norman to adjourn at 9:25 PM. (The next meeting will be Tuesday, February 21, 2017, 7:00 PM, in the Commissioners' Meeting Room, Pre -Agenda Discussion at 5:00 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 February 7, 2017 16