June 1, 2020 - 10:00 AM - County Board of Commissioners Meeting Minutes

10 376 Meeting of the Johnston County Board of Commissioners June 1 , 2020 10 00 am The Johnston County Board of Commissioners met in regular session Monday , June 1 , 2020 at 10 00 am in the Second Floor Meeting Room of the Public Library of Johnston County and Smithfield located at 305 E Market Street in Smithfield , North Carolina The following members were present Present Chairman Ted G Godwin , Vice Chairman Chad M Stewart , Jeffrey P Carver , Larry Wood , Tony Braswell , Patrick E Harris , and RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr Absent None Also Present County Manager Rick J Hester , Clerk to the Board Paula G Woodard , Finance Officer and Assistant County Manager J Chad McLamb , and County Attorney Jennifer J Slusser Chairman Ted G Godwin called the meeting to order at 10 00 am Commissioner Butch Lawter opened the meeting with a prayer Commissioner Chad M Stewart led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag 1 Approval Discussion of Agenda Upon a motion by Commissioner Chad M Stewart , seconded by Commissioner Patrick Harris , and carried by unanimous vote , the Board approved the agenda as presented 2 Consent Agenda Items Upon a motion by Commissioner Tony Braswell , seconded by Commissioner Butch Lawter , and carried by unanimous vote , the Board approved the consent agenda items as follows A Approval of Minutes – May 4 , 2020 10 00 am and Finance Corporation Minutes of May 4 , 2020 B Town of Smithfield – Reappointment of Smithfield Planning Board Member Per the request of the Smithfield Town Council , the Board reappointed Mr Ashley Spain of 18 British Court , Smithfield , to the Smithfield Planning Board representing the ETJ area of the Town with a term to expire on June 30 , 2023 C Celebrate Cleveland Committee – Request for Temporary Road Closure Per the request of the Celebrate Cleveland Committee , the Board approved the temporary closure of a portion of Cleveland Road on July 4 , 2020 from 10 00 am until approximately 10 45 am th for the Celebrate Cleveland July 4 Parade , with the understanding that the Committee will work with the North Carolina Department of Transportation , the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office , and the North Carolina Highway Patrol and obtain all required permits D Public Library of Johnston County & Smithfield – Approval of Affiliation Contracts Per the request of the Library Board of Trustees , the Board approved affiliation contracts with the following Libraries in the County Mary Duncan Public Library Benson ; Kenly Public Library ; Princeton Public Library ; James Bryan Creech Public Library Four Oaks ; and the Selma Public Library E Tax Releases & Refunds – 04 15 2020 – 05 15 2020 Real Personal Property Releases TRANS DATE TIME USER YR BILL # ACCT # TAXPAYER NAME AMOUNT 4 20 2020 11 46 16 AM cfutch 2018 - 32320 2000143865 ENVICOR ENTERPRISES LLC 4,18298 4 20 2020 11 49 55 AM cfutch 2019 - 32320 2000143865 ENVICOR ENTERPRISES LLC 3,80746 5 6 2020 3 15 14 PM cfutch 2019 - 34067 5144570 FOUR OAKS BANK & TRUST 11,23001 5 7 2020 4 02 41 PM ALassiter 2019 - 203497 2000218028 BARNES , GERRIE LEIGH 23865Page377 June 1 , 2020 – 10 00 am Continued 5 7 2020 4 04 41 PM ALassiter 2019 - 203496 2000218028 BARNES , GERRIE LEIGH 17519 Real Personal Property Refunds TRANS DATE TIME USER YR BILL # ACCT # TAXPAYER NAME AMOUNT 4 16 2020 11 33 58 AM tcronan 2019 - 5881 2000176103 BALL , RICHARD SCOTT 30769 4 20 2020 11 46 39 AM cfutch 2018 - 32320 2000143865 ENVICOR ENTERPRISES LLC 4,18298 4 20 2020 11 50 15 AM cfutch 2019 - 32320 2000143865 ENVICOR ENTERPRISES LLC 3,80746 4 23 2020 1 56 47 PM LOCKBOX 2019 - 104849 2000126290 WILLIAMS , JEFFREY B 67142 4 28 2020 11 48 15 AM tcronan 2019 - 108567 2000082418 SIMPSON , INDIE BELLE 25548 5 5 2020 2 14 45 PM LOCKBOX 2019 - 29605 2000041491 DWYER , DAN 1,69289 5 5 2020 2 17 00 PM cfutch 2019 - 29605 2000041491 DWYER , DAN 1,69289 5 6 2020 3 19 37 PM cfutch 2019 - 34067 5144570 FOUR OAKS BANK & TRUST 11,23001 5 6 2020 3 26 04 PM cfutch 2019 - 34067 5144570 FOUR OAKS BANK & TRUST 14,22111 5 7 2020 2 05 39 PM LOCKBOX 2019 - 82765 2000181972 RMJ REAL ESTATE LLC 1,89043 5 13 2020 11 13 36 AM Jodee 2019 - 108567 2000082418 SIMPSON , INDIE BELLE 21518 Langdon North Carolina Vehicle Tax System - Pending Refund Report – April 2020 100 + Payee Name Bill # Transaction Refund Total # Reason Change BENSON , 0048402137 248122760 Situs 000 BRANDON error 10097 MARK 2081 3365 11381 WILLOUGHBY , 0052810160 247000456 Situs 000 SHARON error 19228 HARRELL 1687 6409 23950 April 21 , 2020 This is to certify that , as authorized by the Board of Commissioners on December 11 , 2000 , I have approved the following tax releases and refunds under 100 , as recommended by the County Tax Administrator , Jocelyn Andrews A complete record of this information is on file in the County Finance Office Totals from 4 15 20 to 5 15 20 Tax refunds - Personal Real Property 23527 Tax releases - Personal Real Property 2933 Motor Vehicle Release Refund 9679 Recommended by Tax Administrator Jocelyn Andrews Approved by Finance Director J Chad McLamb 3 COVID - 19 Updates Health Director Dr Marilyn Pearson presented the following information to the Board Page378 June 1 , 2020 – 10 00 am ContinuedPage379 June 1 , 2020 – 10 00 am ContinuedPagePage pageNumber5380 June 1 , 2020 – 10 00 am ContinuedPagePage pageNumber6381 June 1 , 2020 – 10 00 am Continued Dr Pearson thanked and commended her staff at the Health Department noting they have been working seven days a week sometimes twenty - four hours a day and will continue to do so during the COVID - 19 Pandemic Dr Pearson also thanked the Emergency Services Department , Human Resources Department , Department of Social Services , 911 - Communications , the Sheriff’s Office , the County Attorney , and Johnston Health for their work and support Dr Pearson stated she would also like to thank the citizens of Johnston County for doing their part to protect themselves as well as others She stated the Health Department currently has a sufficient supply of Personal Protective Equipment PPE and they will be working with their partners to make sure they are covered Dr Pearson noted they continue to provide testing at the Health Department and there are now a number of alternative sites for testing Upon questions by the Commissioners , Dr Pearson stated there are two types of tests ; one used to diagnose an infection and the other to test for antibodies She stated because testing is becoming more available there is a larger volume to process , which can increase the turnaround time Dr Pearson stated most doctors ’ offices are offering tests to their patients that meet criteria only ; however , there are a number of test sites where anyone be tested Dr Pearson recommended everyone continue to utilize social distancing and follow the proper health and safety guidelines Emergency Services Director Kevin Hubbard reported they continue to work closely with the Health Department during this time Mr Hubbard commended the Health Department as well as the Emergency Services staff for their work Mr Hubbard stated their PPE supply is sufficient for now and they are working with the County’s Buildings & Grounds Department to make sure adequate supplies are on hand for County Government Mr Hubbard informed the Board that today is the official start of the 2020 Hurricane Season Mr Hubbard reported his staff is working hard on a modified response to account for social distancing and additional health and safety guidelines in light of COVID - 19 Mr Hubbard stated this year’s hurricane season is predicted to be active so they must prepare now The Board thanked the Health Department , the Emergency Services Department , and all those that have been responding to the COVID - 19 Pandemic County Manager Rick Hester reported the Court System has resumed some of their court operations effective today in the Courthouse and he commended Buildings & Grounds Director Daniel Clifton and his staff for helping with social distancing measures and sanitizing practices Mr Hester continued that the County will be receiving an allocation in the amount of 3,656,014 from the Coronavirus Relief Fund - CARES Act CRF Mr Hester noted the County is required to submit a plan to the North Carolina Pandemic Recovery Office th NCPRO by June 15 on how the County anticipates the funds will be used Mr Hester stated the funds can be used by counties , local municipalities , fire departments , and EMS stations which have COVID - 19 related expenses under the guidelines He stated the funds must be spent by December 30 , 2020 or be returned to the NCPRO Mr Hester stated if there are no objections by the Board , staff would like to submit the plan to the State , knowing that it may be amended as more information becomes available Mr Hester stated there are many components to the funding and staff wants to make sure the money is used well within the guidelines There were no objections by the Board 4 Public Comments A Tax Exempt Loan Status – Cleveland Fire Department Cleveland Fire Department Chief Chris Ellington requested the Board to approve tax exempt loan status so the Fire Department can borrow up to 593,574 from Civic Federal Credit Union at an interest rate of 26 for 120 months Chief Ellington stated they would like to purchase a new Pierce Pumper Tanker Truck to replace a truck that was recently involved in an accident and declared a total loss Chief Ellington reported he requested four proposals for financing and received two with Civic having the lowest rate Chief Ellington reported the Fire Department used the insurance money received for the truck that was involved in the accident to pay off an existing loan on another truck , construct an addition at Station No 1 for sleeping quarters , and parking lot replacements at Station No 2 Chief Ellington reported the truck involved in the accident was probably one of their busiest engines so it is very important to replace it as soon as possible Finance Director Chad McLamb stated he reviewed the two proposals received and of the two proposals , he recommends Civic Federal Credit Union since they had the lower of the rates PagePage pageNumber7382 June 1 , 2020 – 10 00 am Continued Upon a motion by Commissioner Chad M Stewart , seconded by Commissioner Patrick E Harris , and carried unanimously , the Board adopted the following resolution approving tax exempt loan status NOW , THEREFORE , BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED , that the Board of Commissioners of Johnston County , North Carolina , does hereby approve a tax - exempt loan to the Cleveland Fire Department , Incorporated the “ FD ” , from Civic Federal Credit Union in an amount up to 593,57400 for the purchase of a new Pierce Custom Enforcer Pumper Tanker Truck RESOLVED , FURTHER , that the approval of the loan to the FD set forth above is given solely for purposes of the public approval requirements for tax - exempt financing applicable to the FD because of Section 150 e 3 and Section 147 f of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 , as amended , and such approval does not obligate the County or its Board of Commissioners in any way regarding repayment of the debt 5 Public Hearing – Proposed Fiscal Year 2020 - 2021 County Budget Advertised – The News & Observer Friday Zone Edition – May 22 , 2020 ; The Johnstonian News and The News in Review – May 20 , 2020 The Chairman opened the public hearing for the purposes of allowing public comment on the proposed Fiscal Year 2020 - 2021 County budget The proposed budget and budget message have been completed and copies made available for distribution County Manager’s Budget Message County Manager Rick Hester requested the budget message be inserted into the minutes , as follows Johnston County Fiscal Year 2020 - 2021 Budget Summary Dear Board Members , The proposed Fiscal Year 2020 - 2021 General Fund budget is presented at the current 76 cents property tax rate The proposed 250 million budget is less than the current amended Fiscal Year 2019 - 2020 budget based on 4 30 2020 estimates The June 30 , 2021 fund balance percentage is expected to be comparable to other North Carolina counties with similar strong bond ratings Thanks to Chad McLamb and all of the Department Heads for their work on the proposed budget It has truly been a team effort Debt service is budgeted for the second 20 million series of the November 2018 bond referendum A sincere thank you goes to the voters that have passed six bond referendums in the last twenty years Please note that bond referendum funds are generally sold over a three or four year period for affordability to stay within the scope of the County’s financial model The first debt service payment 19 million for the new detention center is included in the proposed budget Preliminary indications are that the apparent low bid for construction of the new detention center is 11 million less than what was projected After this budget has been adopted , the County will immediately start the process of updating the capital improvements plan model for County Government , Johnston County Public Schools and Johnston Community College needs It is my opinion that to continue meeting the many capital needs in our County , we need to stay aggressive , while staying within our financial model Highlights ? The proposed budget includes the following appropriations for Johnston County Public Schools JCPS and Johnston Community College JCC for current expense and capital outlay These proposed appropriations are based on recent financial information and cash flow models I would request that we continue to monitor the numbers as the Board begins budget discussions Current Expense Capital Outlay JCPS 70,000,000 800,000 JCC 4,500,000 550,000PagePage pageNumber8383 June 1 , 2020 – 10 00 am Continued ? Given the current uncertainty of the economy due to COVID - 19 , I respectfully request to revisit employee compensation later in the budget year ? A total of 38 new positions were originally requested in the General Fund ; however , I am recommending the following 21 that if approved , would likely start between October and January General Fund Emergency Medical Services 8 – Cleveland area EMS unit at fire station 911 Communications 4 – Dispatchers Public Health 2 – 1 position currently exists but unfunded Department of Social Services 1 – Child Protective Services Supervisor Planning Department 1 – Administrative Assistant GIS 1 – Replaces contract position Enterprise Funds Public Utilities 3 – 2 Utility maintenance 1 construction inspector Solid Waste 1 – Gate site attendant at landfill convenience center Proposed Fee Increases The Department of Public Utilities is proposing a comprehensive list of fee adjustments Please see the memorandum from Utilities Director Chandra Farmer in the Supporting Documentation section of the budget for more detail The Department of Solid Waste Services reports that the construction and demolition debris C & D landfill is nearly full We respectfully request to discuss options with the Board during the budget meetings I look forward to discussing the proposed budget at the upcoming budget meetings Please let me know if you have any questions Thank you Sincerely , Rick J Hester County Manager The Chairman called for any others that wished to speak on the budget to come forward Johnston Community College Johnston Community College President Dr David Johnson addressed the Board regarding additional funding for the College Dr Johnson stated the proposed budget indicates an approximate 200,000 reduction in operating funds Dr Johnson explained that he believes the reduction came about from an analysis completed by both the College and the County , which determined the College would have about that much in operating funds remaining at the end of the year Dr Johnson continued that they have requested 814,000 in capital funding which is typically more than they have requested in the past and they also believe the College will need the 200,000 that was eliminated in the proposed budget or they may have to utilize their fund balance Dr Johnson reported they currently have approximately 600,000 left in their capital budget from last year , and 575,000 of that has been encumbered for the Paul A Johnston Auditorium renovations , which have been delayed Dr Johnson spoke on needed improvements at the College at it relates to parking lots , storage at the fire training facility , and a new roof for the Arboretum as well as the need to begin architectural services for future projects He asked the Board to consider those needs when deciding on an allocation for Johnston Community College Johnston County Schools Interim Superintendent Dr Ben Williams shared with the Board the budget presentation that he gave to the Board of Education which was approved , as follows PagePage pageNumber9384 June 1 , 2020 – 10 00 am ContinuedPage0385 June 1 , 2020 – 10 00 am Continued Dr Williams also shared with the Board information from Federal and State resources in terms of COVID emergency funding that Johnston County Schools will be receiving and how those funds can be spent Dr Williams noted that Johnston County Schools will be receiving a portion of the amounts listed and stated those funds are specifically earmarked for certain things related to COVID expenses and would not offset the operational budget needs Dr Williams stated as more information comes to Johnston County Schools regarding the COVID funding , he would share that with the County Dr Williams offered to answer any questions Upon a question by Chairman Ted G Godwin , Dr Williams reported much of the COVID funding will be used to offset technology and child nutrition services that were continued when schools had to close due to the pandemic Dr Williams recognized Chief Financial Officer Art Stanley with Johnston County Schools and noted that Mr Stanley has been an integral part of the budget work Dr Williams thanked Mr Stanley for his assistance not only with the budget but with many other matters he has worked through as Interim Superintendent Dr Williams also thanked the Board and County Manager Rick Hester for all their support to him as Interim Superintendent Chairman Godwin stated he has met the incoming Superintendent and the Board looks forward to working with him Chairman Godwin and Commissioner Chad M Stewart also commended Dr Williams for his work as Interim Superintendent Commissioner Tony Braswell noted that Mr Stanley is leaving Johnston County Schools for a position in Wilson County and he congratulated him on the new opportunity Commissioner Butch Lawter also thanked Dr Williams , stating he appreciates the transparency that has been brought to the budget process There being no further comments , the Chairman closed the public hearing The Chairman announced that the Board would hold additional special meetings to discuss the budget as follows ? Monday , June 8 , 2020 at 6 00 pm Special Meeting for budget discussions ? Monday , June 15 , 2020 at 6 00 pm Special Meeting for anticipated budget adoption 6 Public Hearing – Public Utilities – System Development Fee Analysis Update Advertised – The News & Observer Friday Zone Edition – May 22 , 2020 ; The Johnstonian News and The News in Review – May 20 , 2020 The Chairman opened the public hearing Public Utilities Director Chandra Farmer , PE , stated the purpose of the public hearing is to receive public comment and discussion on the Johnston County System Development Fee Analysis Update for water and wastewater Ms Farmer presented the following information to the Board Page1386 June 1 , 2020 – 10 00 am ContinuedPage2387 June 1 , 2020 – 10 00 am ContinuedPage3388 June 1 , 2020 – 10 00 am ContinuedPage4389 June 1 , 2020 – 10 00 am Continued Ms Farmer offered to answer any questions Commissioner Butch Lawter asked if there is an engineering reason or financial reason as to why the County would choose not to set the fees at the full recommended rate from Willdan for water Ms Farmer responded that while there is not an engineering reason , because the County had a significant increase in the fees last year instead of the typical phased in approach , staff is recommending a partial increase for water this fiscal year Ms Farmer noted the County would be updating the existing rate study in July , which will take this into account She stated it is within the Board’s discretion to step to the full amount if preferred Page5390 June 1 , 2020 – 10 00 am Continued Commissioner Jeffrey P Carver commented on the amount of funds needed over the next 20 years for capital improvements and how significant that amount is to consider Upon a question by Chairman Ted G Godwin , Ms Farmer noted the study was posted online and allowed the opportunity for citizens to send feedback or questions to the Public Utilities Department Ms Farmer reported she had received no comments There being no further comments , the Chairman closed the public hearing The Chairman stated the Board would deliberate on the fees during the budget adoption process 7 Detention Center – Construction Contract Award and Approval of Capital Project Ordinance Dan Mace with Moseley Architects reported on the bids received on April 30 , 2020 at 2 00 pm for the Johnston County Detention Center project , as follows Mr Moseley presented the following information to the Board Page6391 June 1 , 2020 – 10 00 am ContinuedPage7392 June 1 , 2020 – 10 00 am ContinuedPage8393 June 1 , 2020 – 10 00 am Continued Mr Mace stated he is pleased to report that the bids received were lower than originally estimated and the lowest responsive bidder was TA Loving Company in the total bid amount of 36,694,900 Mr Mace reported that TA Loving Company is a very reputable company with many complicated projects to their credit Mr Mace stated the low bid is quite a savings for the County and he offered to answer any questions He stated if the Board chooses to award the contract then construction can begin later this month with a scheduled completion sometime around February 2022 The Board briefly discussed soil replacement costs and Chad Simmons with McGill Associates stated the amount included for soil replacement fits within the contingency Upon a motion by Commissioner Chad M Stewart , seconded by Commissioner Patrick E Harris , and carried unanimously , the Board awarded the Detention Center construction contract to low bidder TA Loving Company in the total bid amount of 36,694,900 contingent upon Local Government Commission LGC approval , financing approval , and final review of all associated contract documents by the County Manager and County Attorney ; approved a total project budget in the amount of 44,500,000 ; and adopted the associated capital project ordinance , as follows CAPITAL PROJECT ORDINANCE FOR THE JOHNSTON COUNTY DETENTION CENTER PROJECT BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Commissioners the “ Board ” of the County of Johnston , North Carolina the “ County ” , that pursuant to Section 132 of Chapter 159 of the General Statutes of North Carolina , the following capital project ordinance is hereby adopted Page9394 June 1 , 2020 – 10 00 am Continued Section 1 The project authorized is the planning , design and construction of a new single story with mezzanine , 117,000 square - foot Detention Center the “ Project ” The Project is to be financed with proceeds of up to 44,000,000 Johnston County Finance Corporation Limited Obligation Bonds , Series 2020A the “ Series 2020A LOBs ” and by an appropriation from the County’s General Fund Section 2 The officers of the County are hereby directed to proceed with the Project within the terms of the budget contained herein Section 3 The following amounts are appropriated for the Project Technical Professional Services 3,827,632 Land 508,891 Furniture , Fixtures & Equipment 992,372 Construction 36,694,900 Contingency 2,056,205 Costs of Issuance 420,000 Total 44,500,000 Section 4 The following revenues are anticipated to be available to complete the Project Series 2020A LOBs 44,000,000 County Appropriation 500,000 Total 44,500,000 The County’s General Fund will be reimbursed approximately 2,557,818 for preliminary expenses previously paid for the Project , leaving a County appropriation of 500,000 Section 5 The Deputy County Manager Director of Finance is hereby directed to maintain within the capital project fund sufficient specific detailed accounting records to satisfy state and federal regulations , and the terms of the Indenture of Trust and the Installment Financing Contract related to the Series 2020A LOBs Section 6 Funds may be advanced from the County’s General Fund for the purpose of making payments for Project expenses Reimbursements from invested 2020A LOBs proceeds will be requested from the 2020A LOBs Trustee in an orderly and timely manner Section 7 The Deputy County Manager Director of Finance is hereby directed to report annually on the financial status of each Project element in Section 3 and the total revenue received Section 8 Copies of this capital project ordinance shall be furnished to the Clerk to the Board , the Budget Officer and the Deputy County Manager Director of Finance for direction in carrying out this Project Adopted this 1st day of June , 2020 Sheriff Steve Bizzell thanked the Board of Commissioners for their support to the Sheriff’s Office and law enforcement in the County Sheriff Bizzell stated he along with Consultant Jimmy Boykin have been very involved in this project in an effort to cut out expenses wherever they could 8 North Carolina Department of Information Technology – North Carolina Broadband Survey Mr Jim Corrin , State Broadband Liaison , with the Broadband Infrastructure Office at the North Carolina Department of Information Technology , addressed the Board regarding an internet connectivity survey for North Carolina households and businesses He introduced Angie Bailey also with the Broadband Infrastructure Office who has been working with him on this project Mr Corrin explained that the North Carolina Broadband Infrastructure Office along with the Friday Institute at North Carolina State University is conducting a five - minute survey to gather data on internet connectivity in North Carolina He stated the data would be used to research and make policy and funding recommendations to assist communities He noted the survey includes an optional internet speed test Mr Corrin stated respondents of the survey can report from their home , farm , or business and the survey focuses on broadband access at a particular location Mr Corrin spoke on the importance of mapping areas where there are unmet internet access needs in Johnston County He stated the data would be used by providers in an effort to expand connectivity Mr Corrin stated if citizens do not have internet access where they can take the survey from their homes , then they are encouraged to take the survey at another location such as the Library He also noted if the resident does not have internet access or a way to take the survey online , then they will offer a phone number citizens can call and report their lack of connectivity Chairman Ted G Godwin commented on the importance of connectivity everywhere , especially in times like now where many people are working from home and students are utilizing remote learning during the COVID - 19 Pandemic Page0395 June 1 , 2020 – 10 00 am Continued Mr Corrin stated the Broadband Infrastructure Office is requesting the County’s assistance in promoting the survey to the citizens of Johnston County He offered to answer any questions Commissioner Larry Wood asked if the survey results would entice smaller internet companies to expand services in the County Mr Corrin responded they certainly hope the results will encourage the smaller companies to provide service He stated the survey data is crucial to the smaller companies when they are looking for investors to help expand their business Upon a question by Commissioner Tony Braswell , Mr Corrin stated providers make decisions based on a rate of return and it is very important for them to have concrete data when they look at expansion Commissioner Patrick E Harris stated it is obvious that Johnston County needs more broadband service and he feels the survey is a step in the right direction Upon questions by Commissioner Butch Lawter , Ms Bailey stated they would like to sit down with Johnston County officials and discuss the best ways to get the survey into the hands of those that have no access to broadband Ms Bailey stated they welcome the opportunity to work with the County staff on a campaign to publicize the survey Ms Bailey also spoke on various sources of funding that could be used to help expand services once the survey data is compiled Following further discussion , it was the consensus of the Board for staff to work with Mr Corrin and Ms Bailey on promoting the survey to the citizens and its importance to get as many people to respond as possible The Board took a five minute recess 9 Department of Solid Waste Services – New Landfill Entrance and Scales Facilities Bid Award Rick Proctor , Director for the Department of Solid Waste Services , reported formal bids were received on April 16 , 2020 at 2 00 pm for the New Landfill Entrance and Scales Facilities Project He stated the bid included the addition of a new roadway entrance , two new vehicle weigh scales , and two new scales attendant buildings Mr Proctor stated three bids were received for this project and the bid advertisement and opening procedures were consistent with statutory requirements to the best of staff’s knowledge The base bid results for the New Landfill Entrance and Scales Facilities Project are as follows ? Triangle Grading & Paving , Inc 1,463,90000 Pursuant to NCGS 143 - 1282 , bid Burlington , North Carolina not responsive ? ST Wooten Corporation 1,595,91500 Wilson , North Carolina ? Farrior & Sons , Inc 1,867,00000 Farmville , North Carolina County Attorney Jennifer Slusser confirmed that upon review of the bids , it was determined that Triangle Grading & Paving , Inc was not responsive to the specified bid requirements pursuant to NCGS 143 - 1282 Mr Proctor reported staff recommends the New Landfill Entrance and Scales Facilities Project be awarded to ST Wooten Corporation from Wilson , North Carolina in the amount of 1,595,91500 He stated staff further recommends that funds be added to the capital construction project account to include an additional 5 or 79,79575 contingency for any unforeseen occurrences that may arise during the project The recommended budget is as follows ? Base Bid MSW Landfill Phase 6A Construction 1,595,91500 ? Construction Contingency 5 79,79575 Total 1,675,71075Page1396 June 1 , 2020 – 10 00 am Continued Upon a motion by Commissioner Butch Lawter , seconded by Commissioner Patrick E Harris , and carried unanimously , the Board awarded the project to ST Wooten Corporation from Wilson , North Carolina in the amount of 1,595,91500 , approved the project budget as presented by staff , and adopted the following budget revision REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 81 77171800 Construction 1,595,91500 81 77177406 Contingency 79,79575 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 1,675,71075 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 81 772137925 Transfer from Other Funds 1,675,71075 TOTAL NET REVENUE 1,675,71075 10 Public Utilities – Biosolids Dewatering Facility and Improvements Project – Centrifuge Equipment Pre - Selection Utilities Director Chandra Farmer , PE , reported the County received proposals on April 9 , 2020 for the proposed centrifuge equipment to be designed and installed as part of the BioSolids Dewatering Facility and Improvements Project She stated this evaluated bid pre - selection process is in accordance with NCGS 143 - 129 and the County will not enter into a contract with the selected manufacturer However , the County’s engineer will use the pre - selected equipment for the detailed project design , and the contractor for the project will enter into a contract to purchase and install the pre - selected equipment Ms Farmer introduced Mary Sadler , Senior Associate , with Hazen & Sawyer , the County’s engineering consultant on the project Ms Sadler reviewed the pre - selection process and criteria within the Request for Proposals RFP , which states “ selection will be accomplished via an evaluation which takes all evaluation criteria , cost and non - cost , into consideration to obtain the best value for the Owner ” Ms Sadler stated Hazen & Sawyer and County staff reviewed the proposals and completed evaluation scoring using the following criteria Evaluation Category Max Points Equipment Features 15 Installed Equip Experience 10 Preventative Maintenance & Service Parts Availability 15 Equipment Cost 30 O & M Life Cycle Cost 30 Maximum Total Points 100 Ms Sadler reported the County received five proposals for the proposed centrifuge equipment She stated GEA was the highest ranking among the five respondents Ms Sadler stated GEA has decades of installed experience , their equipment is very high quality , and their references were excellent Ms Sadler noted that while GEA’s capital costs are higher , their projected operational cost savings will pay for the difference in the capital costs in approximately 15 years Ms Farmer stated staff respectfully requests the Board’s approval to pre - select GEA Mechanical Equipment US , Inc for the BioSolids Dewatering Facility and Improvements project’s centrifuge equipment Upon a motion by Commissioner Butch Lawter , seconded by Commissioner Chad M Stewart , and carried unanimously , the Board approved the pre - selection of GEA Mechanical Equipment US , Inc for the BioSolids Dewatering Facility and Improvements project’s centrifuge equipment 11 Public Utilities – McGee’s Crossroads Water District Improvements Project – Loan Offer and Acceptance Upon a motion by Commissioner Tony Braswell , seconded by Commissioner Patrick E Harris , and carried by unanimous vote , the Board recessed regular session to sit as the McGee’s Crossroads Water District Board Page2397 June 1 , 2020 – 10 00 am Continued Sitting as the McGee’s Crossroads Water District Board Utilities Director Chandra Farmer , PE , explained that in September of 2017 , the McGee’s Crossroads Water District Board authorized a loan application for the District’s proposed Phase 1 and Phase 2 NC 210 Water Main Improvements project , and in July 2019 the Board adopted a project budget Ms Farmer reported the project is included in the County’s approved Capital Improvements Plan She stated the project scope includes replacement of approximately 14,900 LF of SDR 21 PVC 12 ” water main with C - 900 PVC water main along NC 210 and replacement of approximately 18,380 LF of existing SDR 21 PVC 12 ” water main with DIP 20 ” water main Ms Farmer noted the improvements will increase transmission capacity and replace an existing water main that has experienced multiple failures since its original installation in 1999 These improvements are from Old Stage Road at the Johnston Harnett County line to NC 50 Ms Farmer stated the North Carolina Division of Environmental Quality approved the project and offered a State SRP loan from the Water Infrastructure Fund in the amount of 5,586,000 She noted this is a 20 - year loan with 182 interest and staff respectfully requests the Board’s consideration of a resolution accepting the loan At the inquiry of Commissioner Larry Wood , Ms Farmer stated the County has experienced failures on this type of pipe across the County , which was installed at the time when the water districts were originally constructed in the late 1990 ’ s She noted the County has since changed the standards to no longer allow that type of material to be installed Upon a motion by Commissioner Tony Braswell , seconded by Commissioner Chad M Stewart , and carried unanimously , the Board adopted the following resolution accepting the loan for the McGee’s Crossroads Water District water main improvements project RESOLUTION BY GOVERNING BODY OF APPLICANT WHEREAS , the North Carolina Clean Water Revolving Loan and Grant Act of 1987 has authorized the making of loans and grants to aid eligible units of government in financing the cost of construction of wastewater treatment works , wastewater collection systems , and water supply systems , water conservation projects , and WHEREAS , the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality has offered a State Reserve Loan in the amount of 5,586,000 for the construction of Phase 1 and Phase 2 NC 210 Water Main Improvements , and WHEREAS , the McGees Crossroads Water District intends to construct said project in accordance with the approved plans and specifications , NOW , THEREFORE , BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE MCGEES CROSSROADS WATER DISTRICT That McGees Crossroads Water District does hereby accept the State Reserve Loan offer of 5,586,000 That the McGees Crossroads Water District does hereby give assurance to the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality that all items specified in the loan offer , Section II – Assurances will be adhered to That Rick J Hester , County Manager , and successors so titled , is hereby authorized and directed to furnish such information as the appropriate State agency may request in connection with such application or the project ; to make the assurances contained above ; and to execute such other documents as may be required in connection with the application That McGees Crossroads Water District has substantially complied or will substantially comply with all Federal , State and local laws , rules , regulations and ordinances applicable to the project and to Federal and State grants and loans pertaining thereto Adopted this the 1st day of June , 2020 at Smithfield , North Carolina Upon a motion by Commissioner Tony Braswell , seconded by Commissioner Chad M Stewart , and carried by unanimous vote , the Board adjourned as the McGee’s Crossroads Water District Board , and regular session was resumed Page3398 June 1 , 2020 – 10 00 am Continued 12 Budget Revisions At the request of Finance Director and Assistant County Manager Chad McLamb , Commissioner Chad M Stewart moved the Board approve the following budget revision , seconded by Commissioner Larry Wood , and carried by unanimous vote Health REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 10 59556207 Non - Major Capital Assets 32,57389 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 32,57389 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 10 595536207 State Grant 32,57389 TOTAL NET REVENUE 32,57389 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 10 59157050 Non - Major Capital Assets 15,51202 10 59207050 Non - Major Capital Assets 138,28752 10 59257050 Non - Major Capital Assets 163,81006 10 59457050 Non - Major Capital Assets 538,41540 10 59607050 Non - Major Capital Assets 95,84300 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 951,86800 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 10 591534154 Medicaid 15,51202 10 592034154 Medicaid 138,28752 10 592534154 Medicaid 163,81006 10 594534154 Medicaid 538,41540 10 596034154 Medicaid 95,84300 TOTAL NET REVENUE 951,86800 Jail REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 10 52003601 SCAAP 29,97500 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 29,97500 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 10 520035139 SCAAP Revenue 29,97500 TOTAL NET REVENUE 29,97500 Sheriff REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 10 51001700 Vehicles 2,14000 10 51004300 Special Services 12000 10 51007414 Capital Outlay – Sheriff 6248 10 51007418 Capital Outlay – Drug Seizure 134,69585 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 137,01833 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE Page4399 June 1 , 2020 – 10 00 am Continued 10 510032106 Controlled Substance Tax 6248 10 510033099 Miscellaneous Revenue 12000 10 510035104 Sheriff Fees 2,14000 10 510035160 Federal Equitable Sharing 134,69585 TOTAL NET REVENUE 137,01833 Social Services REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 10 61101911 Progress Energy Neighbor Fund 3,52533 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 3,52533 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 10 610034123 Social Services Administration 3,52533 TOTAL NET REVENUE 3,52533 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 10 61101917 LIEAP Program 84,67653 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 84,67653 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 10 610034123 Social Services Administration 84,67653 TOTAL NET REVENUE 84,67653 13 Appointments Upon a motion by Commissioner Larry Wood , seconded by Commissioner Tony Braswell , and carried unanimously , the Board made the following appointments and granted waivers in the length of service policy where needed A Bentonville Community Building Board of Trustees – Reappointed James Q Beasley for a two year term to expire on April 30 , 2022 and granted Mr Beasley a waiver in the length of service policy B Child Fatality Prevention Team – Reappointed Christina Peterson for a three year term to expire on June 30 , 2023 and granted Ms Peterson a waiver in the length of service policy C Johnston Community College Board of Trustees – Appointed Josh Thompson for a four year term to expire on June 30 , 2024 D Johnston County Board of Health – Reappointed Dr Justin Barbaro representing Dentist for a three year term to expire on June 30 , 2023 E Juvenile Crime Prevention Council – Reappointed Maurice Atkinson representing Nonprofit Agency , Thomas E Glithero representing General Public , and Gary Wayne Carter representing General Public for two year terms to expire on June 30 , 2022 F Library Board of Trustees – Reappointed Debbie Armstrong Cobb and granted Ms Cobb a waiver in the length of service policy ; and appointed Thomas E Glithero pending Mr Glithero’s resignation from the Child Fatality Prevention Team for three year terms to expire on June 20 , 2023 G Nursing Home Adult Care Home Community Advisory Board – Reappointed Chad R Thompson for a three year term to expire on June 30 , 2023 and granted Mr Thompson a waiver in the length of service policy H Social Services Board – Reappointed Jennifer Whitley for a three year term to expire on June 30 , 2023 Page5400 June 1 , 2020 – 10 00 am Continued I Voluntary Agricultural District Advisory Board – Reappointed Myron Smith and James Thomas Vinson , Jr for three year terms to expire on June 30 , 2023 and granted both a waiver in the length of service policy J Fire Protection District Commissions McLemore – Appointed Don R Wells for a two year term to expire on April 30 , 2022 Micro – Reappointed Johnny Dixon for a two year term to expire on April 30 , 2022 and granted Mr Dixon a waiver in the length of service policy K Meadow Firefighters Relief Fund Board of Trustees – Appointed Ryan L Parker for a two year term to expire on April 30 , 2022 Other Appointments L Eastern Regional Housing Board – In a unanimous vote show of hands , the Board reappointed Sandra Norris for a five year term to expire on June 30 , 2025 M Emergency Medical Services Advisory Committee – In a unanimous vote show of hands , the Board reappointed April Barbour - Matthews representing an active EMS Member currently involved in the management of a franchised EMS agency and Donald Banks Wallace representing Citizens At - Large for three year terms to expire on June 30 , 2023 14 Delinquent Tax Collection Report Tax Administrator Jocelyn Andrews reported on the collection of delinquent taxes for the month of April 2020 , as follows Enforced Collections April 2020 YTD 19 20 Wage Garnishments 0 277 Bank Attachments 0 266 Levies 0 0 Foreclosures Complaints Filed April 2020 0 Pending 17 Dollars Collected April 2020 0 Sale Date No June sale scheduled Levy Amount and Collections to Date 2019 Real and Personal Levy 2018 Real and Personal Levy As of April 30 , 2020 As of April 30 , 2019 142,428,43306 Levy 117,819,58563 Levy 141,035,84003 Payments 117,204,00441 Payments 1,392,59303 Balance 615,58122 Balance 9902 Collected 9948 Collected - 046 RMV – NCVTS Collections April 2020 April 2019 1,263,30056 1,359,66441 YTD 19 20 - 13,228,64603 YTD 18 19 - 12,543,72887Page6401 June 1 , 2020 – 10 00 am Continued Ms Andrews stated on March 17 , 2020 , due to the COVID - 19 Pandemic , she temporarily ceased issuance of any new wage garnishments and bank attachments She stated for existing garnishments and attachments that were already in place as of March 17 , they were allowed to stand with the understanding that the Tax Office staff would work with taxpayers in hardship cases Ms Andrews reported only one family reached out to the Tax Office with a hardship situation and the staff worked with that family st Ms Andrews continued that it is now June 1 with 30 days left in the fiscal year and 12 million left to be collected Ms Andrews stated if there were no objections , she would like to resume new enforced collection th efforts on the outstanding tax bills that were mailed in July of 2019 and became delinquent on January 7 , with the continued instruction to the staff that they will work with hardship cases There were no objections by the Board 15 Manager Reports and Comments A Fire Tax Budget Committee Meeting County Manager Rick Hester reported the Fire Tax Budget Committee is planning to meet on Friday , th June 5 in the Emergency Operations Center to review tax rate increase requests from the fire departments that have requested increases B Amendment to Electronic Imaging Policy County Attorney Jennifer Slusser requested the Board to approve an amendment to the County’s electronic imaging policy Ms Slusser reported that in July of 2014 , Johnston County adopted an electronic imaging policy consistent with North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources guidelines She stated the policy is intended to allow the County to shred paper records after making a digital image of the record She noted these digital images are subject to quality control and audit prior to the images being shredded and do not apply to records deemed permanent under the disposition schedule Ms Slusser explained that the original policy accounted for on - site shredding only , but due to space and staffing limitations , staff is requesting an amendment to the policy to allow for off - site shredding of documents by a third - party vendor according to the terms of an approved contract Upon a motion by Commissioner Larry Wood , seconded by Commissioner Patrick E Harris , and carried unanimously , the Board approved the amendment to the Electronic Imaging Policy to allow for off - site shredding of documents by a third - party vendor according to the terms of an approved contract 16 Board Reports and Comments Chairman Ted G Godwin commented that he has had some recent discussions with other Commissioners regarding the County’s membership and participation with the National Association of Counties NACO and would like to continue those discussions at some point 17 Closed Session – NCGS 14331811 a 3 – Attorney - Client Privilege ; NCGS 14331811a 4 – Economic Development ; and NCGS 14331811 a 5 – Acquisition of Property Upon a motion by Commissioner Chad M Stewart , seconded by Commissioner Patrick E Harris , and carried by unanimous vote , the Board recessed regular session to sit in closed session for the purposes of consulting with an attorney employed by the Board in order to preserve the attorney - client privilege pursuant to North Carolina General Statute 143 - 31811 a 3 , to discuss matters relating to the location or expansion of industries or other businesses in the area , pursuant to North Carolina General Statute 143 - 31811 a 4 , and to establish or instruct staff concerning the negotiation of the price and terms of a contract concerning the acquisition of real property pursuant to North Carolina General Statute 143 - 31811 a 5 No action was taken Commissioner Larry Wood moved the Board adjourn closed session and resume regular session Commissioner Chad M Stewart seconded the motion , which carried by unanimous vote Page7402 June 1 , 2020 – 10 00 am Continued There being no further business , Commissioner Jeffrey P Carver moved the Board adjourn Commissioner Larry Wood seconded the motion , which carried by unanimous vote The meeting adjourned at 1 35 pm Ted G Godwin , Chairman Paula G Woodard , Clerk to the BoardPage