August 3, 2020 - 10:00 AM - County Board of Commissioners Meeting Minutes

10 473 Meeting of the Johnston County Board of Commissioners August 3 , 2020 10 00 am The Johnston County Board of Commissioners met in regular session Monday , August 3 , 2020 at 10 00 am in the Auditorium of the Johnston County Agricultural Center located at 2736 NC Highway 210 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 , County Attorney Jennifer J Slusser , and Paralegal Deputy Clerk to the Board Dana Cuddington Chairman Ted G Godwin called the meeting to order at 10 00 am Commissioner Patrick E Harris opened the meeting with a prayer The Commissioners led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag 1 Approval Discussion of Agenda Upon a motion by Commissioner Tony Braswell , seconded by Commissioner Chad M Stewart , and carried by unanimous vote , the Board approved the agenda as presented 2 Consent Agenda Items Upon a motion by Commissioner Patrick E Harris , seconded by Commissioner Jeffrey P Carver , and carried by unanimous vote , the Board approved the consent agenda items as follows A Approval of Minutes – July 6 , 2020 – 10 00 am B Department of Transportation – Additions to System The Board concurred with the Department of Transportation’s recommendation to add the following roads to the State Maintained System Gatlin Drive , Ada Circle , and Inman Way – Cades Landing – Pine Level Township Reed Drive – Reed Landing – Clayton Township Sherrill Farm Drive – Sherrill Farm – Phase One – Elevation Township C Emergency Services – Second Vote – 50 - 210 Fire Department First Responder Franchise The Board voted to approve a first responder franchise for the 50 - 210 Fire Department D Tax Releases & Refunds – 06 15 2020 – 07 15 2020 Motor Vehicle Release Refund Report 2019 2007 - 649071 2003 - 671630 Young , Katherine Overpayment 12233 2019 2007 - 649072 2005 - 671631 Hocutt , Paula Atkinson Overpayment 10426 Real Personal Property Releases TRANS DATE TIME USER YR BILL # ACCT # TAXPAYER NAME AMOUNT 6 18 2020 11 30 19 AM cfutch 2019 - 73787 67098361 PARKVIEW ASSOCIATES 1,58670 6 18 2020 11 51 03 AM cfutch 2019 - 76840 70638555 PINE KNOLL HOUSING ASSOC 3,75592 6 18 2020 12 39 53 PM cfutch 2015 - 57611 2000067526 LOWES HOME CENTERS INC 2,67826 6 18 2020 12 48 22 PM cfutch 2016 - 58032 2000067526 LOWES HOME CENTERS INC 2,67826 6 18 2020 12 53 10 PM cfutch 2017 - 73202 2000067526 LOWES HOME CENTERS INC 2,67826 6 18 2020 1 01 34 PM cfutch 2018 - 60698 2000067526 LOWES HOME CENTERS INC 2,67826 6 18 2020 1 17 54 PM cfutch 2015 - 57613 2000055216 LOWES HOME CENTERS , INC 12,64167Page474 August 3 , 2020 – 10 00 am Continued 6 18 2020 1 23 18 PM cfutch 2016 - 58033 2000055216 LOWES HOME CENTERS , INC 12,64167 6 18 2020 1 27 11 PM cfutch 2017 - 90285 2000055216 LOWES HOME CENTERS , INC 12,64167 6 18 2020 1 30 25 PM cfutch 2018 - 60700 2000055216 LOWES HOME CENTERS , INC 12,64167 6 18 2020 1 33 59 PM cfutch 2015 - 57612 2000055216 LOWES HOME CENTERS , INC 2,07481 6 18 2020 1 37 49 PM cfutch 2016 - 58034 2000055216 LOWES HOME CENTERS , INC 2,07481 6 18 2020 1 41 15 PM cfutch 2017 - 8620 2000055216 LOWES HOME CENTERS , INC 2,07481 6 18 2020 1 44 10 PM cfutch 2018 - 60699 2000055216 LOWES HOME CENTERS , INC 2,07481 7 15 2020 12 19 54 PM ALassiter 2020 - 200398 2000021074 PRICE , CATHOLINE PEACOCK 30582 7 15 2020 12 23 36 PM ALassiter 2020 - 200399 2000021074 PRICE , CATHOLINE PEACOCK 30582 7 15 2020 12 30 22 PM ALassiter 2020 - 200400 2000021074 PRICE , CATHOLINE PEACOCK 31399 Real Personal Property Refunds TRANS DATE TIME USER YR BILL # ACCT # TAXPAYER NAME AMOUNT 6 17 2020 11 28 14 AM ajsoutherland 2019 - 47142 2000051996 INGRAM , CHARLES DEMORRIS 19442 SR 6 18 2020 11 30 59 AM cfutch 2019 - 73787 67098361 PARKVIEW ASSOCIATES 1,58670 6 18 2020 11 51 46 AM cfutch 2019 - 76840 70638555 PINE KNOLL HOUSING ASSOC 3,75592 6 18 2020 12 43 00 PM cfutch 2015 - 57611 2000067526 LOWES HOME CENTERS INC 2,67826 6 18 2020 12 48 58 PM cfutch 2016 - 58032 2000067526 LOWES HOME CENTERS INC 2,67826 6 18 2020 12 53 49 PM cfutch 2017 - 73202 2000067526 LOWES HOME CENTERS INC 2,67826 6 18 2020 1 02 11 PM cfutch 2018 - 60698 2000067526 LOWES HOME CENTERS INC 2,67826 6 18 2020 1 18 31 PM cfutch 2015 - 57613 2000055216 LOWES HOME CENTERS , INC 12,64167 6 18 2020 1 23 55 PM cfutch 2016 - 58033 2000055216 LOWES HOME CENTERS , INC 12,64167 6 18 2020 1 27 35 PM cfutch 2017 - 90285 2000055216 LOWES HOME CENTERS , INC 12,64167 6 18 2020 1 30 53 PM cfutch 2018 - 60700 2000055216 LOWES HOME CENTERS , INC 12,64167 6 18 2020 1 34 41 PM cfutch 2015 - 57612 2000055216 LOWES HOME CENTERS , INC 2,07481 6 18 2020 1 38 21 PM cfutch 2016 - 58034 2000055216 LOWES HOME CENTERS , INC 2,07481 6 18 2020 1 41 38 PM cfutch 2017 - 8620 2000055216 LOWES HOME CENTERS , INC 2,07481 6 18 2020 1 44 38 PM cfutch 2018 - 60699 2000055216 LOWES HOME CENTERS , INC 2,07481 6 29 2020 8 15 48 AM jmorrow 2015 - 35967 2000084187 GOWER , PENNY JORDAN 11520 6 29 2020 10 26 25 AM ajsoutherland 2019 - 47142 2000051996 INGRAM , CHARLES DEMORRIS 26850 SR 6 29 2020 2 23 38 PM ajsoutherland 2019 - 13363 2000195052 BROADWAY , JUSTEN 17999 7 6 2020 1 20 32 PM awestbrook 2019 - 78046 2000181424 POUNDS , REVIS BRIAN 19279 7 13 2020 3 55 07 PM tcronan 2019 - 78044 2000181424 POUNDS , REVIS BRIAN 10163 7 14 2020 11 03 48 AM awestbrook 2019 - 53137 2000162075 KATCHER , MELISSA L 57516 North Carolina Vehicle Tax System - Pending Refund Report – June 2020 100 + Payee Name Bill # Transaction Refund Total Change # Reason KIKENDALL , 0054047004 253010068 Situs error 000 KEVIN JOHN 21401 3755 7134 24780 KIKENDALL , 0054071382 253010072 Situs error 000 KEVIN JOHN 16530 2900 5510 19140Page475 August 3 , 2020 – 10 00 am Continued July 27 , 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 6 15 20 to 7 15 20 Tax refunds - Personal Real Property 66077 Tax releases - Personal Real Property 0 Motor Vehicle Release Refund 10090 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 update to the Board as it relates to the COVID - 19 Pandemic Page476 August 3 , 2020 – 10 00 am ContinuedPagePage pageNumber5477 August 3 , 2020 – 10 00 am ContinuedPagePage pageNumber6478 August 3 , 2020 – 10 00 am Continued Dr Pearson stated they continue with testing and contact tracing and she thanked the Board and all the County Departments for their continued assistance to the Health Department as they respond to the pandemic Emergency Services Director Kevin Hubbard reported the County’s Personal Protective Equipment PPE supplies remain stable and they continue to work to support all the partners in the response to the pandemic Tropical Storm Hurricane Isaias Emergency Services Assistant Director Josh Holloman reported staff is working to prepare for the approaching Tropical Storm Hurricane Isaias He stated Johnston County is currently under a Tropical Storm Warning and Flash Flood Watch and staff will be monitoring the situation throughout the event Mr Holloman encouraged all citizens to prepare now and have their plans ready He stated at the present time the County does not plan to open any shelters but could if it is determined they are necessary Mr Holloman stated because of the COVID - 19 Pandemic , he would encourage anyone seeking shelter to use alternative options such as staying with family or friends if possible and use shelters as a last resort Mr Holloman stated any shelter information as well as public information regarding Isaias would be sent out through the media and the County’s social media outlets PagePage pageNumber7479 August 3 , 2020 – 10 00 am Continued 911 - Communications Director Jason Barbour stated 911 is also preparing for the approaching storm Mr Barbour noted a State of Emergency Proclamation may be necessary later in the day to accommodate modified operations within the 911 - Communications Department Mr Barbour stated both 911 locations are up and ready to go 4 Public Comments A Recognition of Cassidy Hobbs Hall with Cooperative Extension Cooperative Extension Director Bryant Spivey recognized Ms Cassidy Hobbs Hall , Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Agent , for receiving the Early Career Award from the North Carolina Association of Family and Consumer Sciences Mr Spivey reported that Ms Hall covers both Johnston and Wilson Counties and has done an outstanding job that is worthy of this award He stated the Cooperative Extension Office is very appreciative to have her on staff and he spoke on how her work helps to improve the lives of citizens every day Mr Spivey noted that Ms Hall could not attend today’s meeting ; however , he wanted to make sure and report on this great accomplishment The Board commended Ms Hall and asked Mr Spivey to pass along their congratulations B Broadband Survey Update Public Information Officer Paulette Williams , with the Johnston County Human Resources Department , updated the Board with regards to the North Carolina Broadband Survey recently launched by the North Carolina Department of Information Technology Ms Williams stated the County has released information out to the public in the hopes of encouraging as many citizens as possible to complete the survey to determine areas without adequate internet access and speeds She stated the information gathered will provide clear data to guide the investment of funds through the State’s Growing Rural Economies with Access to Technology GREAT grant program , inform research and policy recommendations , and support strategic targeting of additional funding streams Ms Williams stated the feedback is very important as it directly impacts grants and infrastructure funding within the community She noted the survey is a collaboration between the North Carolina Department of Information Technology’s Broadband Infrastructure Office and the Friday Institute at North Carolina State University Ms Williams provided the Board with information regarding the various ways citizens can complete the survey and stated staff would keep the Commissioners updated C Economic Development - Strategic Plan Report Economic Development Director Chris Johnson explained that several weeks ago , the Economic Development Advisory Board received a strategic plan report from Ted Abernathy with Economic Leadership of Raleigh Mr Johnson stated in light of everything happening in the world with the COVID - 19 Pandemic , the Economic Development Advisory Board wanted to look at ways on how to move forward and better position Johnston County for new opportunities Mr Johnson provided the Board with a brief overview of the report and stated while Johnston County has many advantages , it does still have a shortage of ready to go industrial space Mr Johnson stated this is an issue the Advisory Board continues to look at and one of his main concerns is continued residential growth taking up available industrial land along the Interstate 95 Corridor Mr Johnson stated the Economic Development Office has been diligent in setting aside funds to help certify sites ; however , they are unable to purchase land at this time Mr Johnson spoke on the NC Broadband Survey and the importance of connectivity in the County given the number of people that will continue to work from home even after the pandemic is over He stated with remote learning for students added into that equation it creates a strain on the infrastructure Mr Johnson encouraged everyone to complete the survey 5 Public Hearing – Ordinance Amendment – Chapter 10 EMS First Responder Franchise Advertised – The News & Observer Friday Zone Edition – July 24 and 31 , 2020 ; The Johnstonian News and The News in Review – July 22 and 29 , 2020 The Chairman opened the public hearing for the purposes of receiving public comment on a proposed amendment to Chapter 10 – Emergency Medical Services , of the Johnston County Code of Ordinances Emergency Services Assistant Director Josh Holloman explained that the proposed amendment would allow all fire departments in the County to provide first responder services without having to obtain a franchise PagePage pageNumber8480 August 3 , 2020 – 10 00 am Continued Currently , each fire department providing first responder service receives an addendum to their fire services contract with the County He stated any fire department wishing to add this service would request a recommendation from the Johnston County EMS Advisory Committee and final approval from the Board of Commissioners for the contract addendum and subsequent payment for services Mr Holloman noted that requests from fire departments seeking to provide this service are reviewed by the EMS System Medical Director He stated the EMS Advisory Committee voted to recommend approval of this amendment There being no further comments , the Chairman closed the public hearing Upon a motion by Commissioner Chad M Stewart , seconded by Commissioner Patrick E Harris , and carried unanimously , the Board voted to approve the amendments as presented and following PagePage pageNumber9481 August 3 , 2020 – 10 00 am ContinuedPage0482 August 3 , 2020 – 10 00 am ContinuedPage1483 August 3 , 2020 – 10 00 am ContinuedPage2484 August 3 , 2020 – 10 00 am ContinuedPage3485 August 3 , 2020 – 10 00 am ContinuedPage4486 August 3 , 2020 – 10 00 am ContinuedPage5487 August 3 , 2020 – 10 00 am Continued 6 Moseley Architects – Detention Center Proposed Phase 2 Update Dan Mace and Todd Davis with Moseley Architects along with Chad Simmons of McGill Associates addressed the Board as it relates to a proposed Phase 2 of the Detention Center Project Mr Mace reported when the new Detention Center construction bids came in approximately 12 million under budget , Moseley was asked to look at cost estimates for a proposed Phase 2 He noted Phase 2 would consist of space for the Sheriff’s Office , Emergency Services , and 911 - Communications Mr Mace reviewed the following updated space requirements for Phase 2 Page6488 August 3 , 2020 – 10 00 am Continued Mr Simmons reviewed three site plan options that could be considered for Phase 2 , and noted they prefer Option 1 over the others Page7489 August 3 , 2020 – 10 00 am Continued Mr Simmons spoke on wetland areas and how they affect the three options Mr Simmons stated they are currently working with the US Army Corps of Engineers on getting the wetlands declassified and they hope to have a resolution within the next 45 to 60 days Mr Simmons stated the third option is the least preferable ; however , it would create no impact to the wetlands Mr Simmons stated mitigation would be necessary for Option 1 if the wetlands cannot be declassified Upon questions by Commissioners Chad M Stewart and Butch Lawter , Mr Simmons stated if soil mitigation is necessary , it would be the same process utilized for the Detention Center construction He stated the wetlands are approximately one - half of an acre and he would report back to the Board on a cost estimate if necessary Mr Mace reviewed proposed floor plan options with the Board and submitted the following pre - bid budget estimate At the inquiry of Commissioner Lawter , Mr Mace stated the construction costs they are seeing now are a result of the COVID - 19 pandemic and he sees that trend continuing for a while Mr Mace stated he recommends a competitive bidding process versus negotiating with the current contractor Mr Mace submitted the following design schedule if the Board chooses to move forward Page8490 August 3 , 2020 – 10 00 am Continued Mr Mace stated if the Board would like to move forward with schematic design , Moseley could proceed and then come back at the completion of each phase to update the Board and receive additional approvals to continue Commissioner Patrick E Harris stated the County has grown dramatically and the emergency response agencies have had to grow accordingly Commissioner Harris stated he feels this is a great opportunity to take advantage of a favorable building climate as well as the cost savings recognized on the Detention Center Commissioner Harris stated the Board could always step back if needed , but this would be a good time to at least move forward with design Sheriff Steve Bizzell stated he met with 911 - Communications Director Jason Barbour and Emergency Services Director Kevin Hubbard and reviewed the options in an effort to be as conservative as possible Sheriff Bizzell stated he feels it is time to move forward and the 12 million cost savings on the Detention Center could be put towards Phase 2 Sheriff Bizzell stated by moving the agencies out of the courthouse , it would free up much needed space at that location Commissioner Jeffrey P Carver commented that if those agencies move out of the courthouse , there will be additional costs associated with retrofitting that space for other needs and he would like to see those cost estimates Commissioner Carver expressed concerns with committing to Phase 2 at this time , given all the other needs in the County Commissioner Chad M Stewart stated he agrees with Commissioner Carver ; however , just as Commissioner Harris stated , the building climate is currently favorable Commissioner Stewart asked if the Board could authorize Moseley to proceed with schematic design only with the understanding that the Board would look at the project again in phases Commissioner Stewart stated in the meantime , staff could be evaluating the financial model Mr Mace confirmed that the Board could look at the project in phases and halt the process at any point before construction Commissioner Lawter concurred , stating the Board also considered and approved the Detention Center project in phases Upon a motion by Commissioner Butch Lawter , seconded by Commissioner Patrick E Harris , and carried unanimously , the Board authorized staff to work with Moseley Architects to proceed with the schematic design for Phase 2 of the Detention Center Project 7 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 revisions , seconded by Commissioner Jeffrey P Carver , and carried by unanimous vote Jail REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 10 52003601 SCAAP Expenditures 49,69300 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 49,69300 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 10 460033990 Fund Balance Appropriated 49,69300 TOTAL NET REVENUE 49,69300 Library REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE Page9491 August 3 , 2020 – 10 00 am Continued 18 44500400 Legal & Professional Fees 2,00000 18 44501100 Telephone 4,00000 18 44501110 Postage 60000 18 44501300 Utilities 5,00000 18 44501500 Building & Grounds 11,00000 18 44501600 M & R Equipment 10,00000 18 44502111 Rent of Copy Machine 1,40000 18 44502115 Postage Meter Rent 30000 18 44503200 Office Supplies 1,00000 18 44503305 Books – Main 5,00000 18 44503308 Books – Bookmobile 29800 18 44503309 Periodicals 30000 18 44503316 AV 1,00000 18 44503318 Processing 11,00000 18 44503319 AV Supplies 1,98800 18 44503324 LSTA Grant 5,00000 18 44503326 Books – YA 70200 18 44505400 Insurance & Bonds 90000 18 44505810 Endowments 247000 18 44507100 Capital Improvement 3,55400 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 35,54000 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 18 445033424 LSTA Grant 25,00000 18 445033990 Fund Balance Appropriated 60,54000 TOTAL NET REVENUE 35,54000 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 18 44500200 Salaries & Wages 84,58800 18 44500201 Longevity 60000 18 44500250 Salaries Permanent 10,00000 18 44500300 Salaries Part - Time 28,48600 18 44500501 Social Security 8,67900 18 44500600 Health Insurance 9,16800 18 44500602 Retiree Hospital Insurance 7,12800 18 44500610 Life Insurance 12100 18 44500700 Retirement 92400 18 44500701 401K 3,13000 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 130,46000 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 18 445033424 Fund Balance Appropriated 46000 18 445034103 Town of Smithfield 130,00000 TOTAL NET REVENUE 130,46000 Sheriff REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE Page0492 August 3 , 2020 – 10 00 am Continued 10 51001700 Vehicles 2,32000 10 51004300 Special Services 62200 10 51007414 Capital Outlay – Sheriff 34696 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 3,28896 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 10 510032106 Controlled Substance Tax 34696 10 510033099 Miscellaneous Revenue 62200 10 510035104 Sheriff Fees 2,32000 TOTAL NET REVENUE 3,28896 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 10 51003350 Supplies – Special 6,31147 10 51007414 Capital Outlay – Sheriff 184,98636 10 51007418 Capital Outlay – Drug Seizure 758,10383 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 949,40166 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 10 460033990 Fund Balance Appropriated 949,40166 TOTAL NET REVENUE 949,40166 Social Services REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 10 61001100 Telephone 148 10 61001400 Travel 22000 10 61003200 Office Supplies 2740 10 61003211 Verifications 4500 10 61004515 Program Expense 1,54598 10 61054500 Contract Services 15057 10 61101917 LIEAP Program 77578 10 61354523 Contract and Program Expense 35000 10 61401902 State County General Assistance 22,50515 10 61401906 State Foster Care 7,54646 10 61004515 Program Expense 1,54598 10 61054500 Contract Services 15057 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 33,16782 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 10 610034123 Social Services Administration 33,16782 TOTAL NET REVENUE 33,16782 8 Appointments A Child Fatality Prevention Team – Upon a motion by Commissioner Jeffrey P Carver , seconded by Commissioner Chad M Stewart , and carried unanimously , the Board appointed Kristi Nelson representing the community at - large for a three year term to expire on June 30 , 2023 Page1493 August 3 , 2020 – 10 00 am Continued B Hospital Authority Board of Commissioners – Nominations Clerk to the Board Paula Woodard distributed written ballots to the Commissioners , asked for each Commissioner to vote for three nominations from the list of applicants , and sign the ballot Upon completion , Ms Woodard collected the ballots The Chairman stated the results would be tallied and certified upon adjournment and announced at the 6 00 pm meeting Note At the 6 00 pm meeting , the Chairman announced that Patricia Chisholm - Jones , William W Massengill , Jr , and Jeff Parlier were nominated The nominations will be forwarded to the Hospital Authority th for review and recommendation A final appointment will be made at the September 8 meeting 9 Delinquent Tax Collection Report Tax Administrator Jocelyn Andrews reported on the collection of delinquent taxes for the month of June 2020 , as follows Enforced Collections June 2020 YTD 19 20 Wage Garnishments 0 277 Bank Attachments 8 274 Levies 0 0 Foreclosures Complaints Filed June 2020 1 Pending 18 Dollars Collected June 2020 0 Sale Date No sale scheduled at this time Levy Amount and Collections to Date 2019 Real and Personal Levy 2018 Real and Personal Levy As of June 30 , 2020 As of June 30 , 2019 142,412,05324 Levy 117,814,10987 Levy 141,602,25238 Payments 117,668,89563 Payments 809,80086 Balance 145,21424 Balance 9943 Collected 9988 Collected - 045 RMV – NCVTS Collections June 2020 June 2019 1,410,22391 1,391,18064 YTD 19 20 - 15,892,39862 YTD 18 19 - 15,391,76914 Ms Andrews briefly updated the Board on the Tax Department’s modified office operations throughout the COVID - 19 Pandemic and how they have been assisting the public while keeping everyone as safe and healthy as possible 10 Annual Tax Settlement and Charge to Collect Taxes for 2020 Tax Administrator Jocelyn Andrews submitted the following annual tax settlement as of June 30 , 2020 Annual Settlement - June 30 , 2020 Total 2019 - 2020 Real Personal Property Tax Levy 142,412,05324 Total 2019 - 2020 Collected 141,602,25238Page2494 August 3 , 2020 – 10 00 am Continued Percent Collected - Real Personal 9943 0994313 down 045 Collected Credited Real Business Personal 138,810,20230 Discoveries 3,764,38384 Releases - 162,53290 Levy 142,412,05324 Payments - 141,602,25238 Balance Unpaid 809,80086 A final collections audit will be conducted by an outside auditing firm and included in the county - wide audit for 2019 - 2020 2006 - 2018 Levy Collected Real Personal 67,89936 Motor Vehicles 8,39806 Increase in Real Business Personal Property Levy 2018 117,814,10987 2019 142,412,05324 Increase Percentage 2088 Enforced Collections 2019 - 2020 Garnishments Served 277 156,97900 Paid 235 120,98304 Unpaid active 16 24,26212 Terminated 21 5,45225 Released 5 6,28159 Bank Attachments Served 274 406,05201 Paid 165 285,93968 Unpaid active 1 1,35616 No funds 30 32,58182 Account closed 13 8,17039 Released 4 2,00182 No Accounts etc 19 17,64208 Protected Funds SS 3 3,40802Page3495 August 3 , 2020 – 10 00 am Continued Unpaid Partials 39 54,95204 Levies 0 Debt Setoff Program 58 4,41226 Field Collections Deputy Collectors 834 1,702,30408 Total collected by enforcement actions 11984 1,706,71634 Excludes dollars collected by foreclosure attorney Interest and fees collected 296,23016 Real Estate Foreclosure Collections Accounts sent to Foreclosure Attorney 17 Complaints Filed 10 Complaints Pending 18 Accounts Paid 4 Total Collected by Foreclosure 10,98863 Multi - Year Taxes Foreclosure Sales Property Sold Property Redeemed 3 2 One 1 property remains in the upset bid period , extended due to COVID - 19 Payment Arrangements We encourage taxpayers to enter into payment arrangements prior to their taxes becoming delinquent The tax collections office accepted 840 payment arrangements totaling approximately 1,423,18457 As of June 30 , five 5 remain upaid with a outstanding balance of 2,36437 Bankruptcy Bankruptcy Real and Personal 67,35785 115 New Filings Previous year 146 filings - 26,56072 2019 Post Petition Taxes 50,24333 Protected from EnforcementPage4496 August 3 , 2020 – 10 00 am Continued Property Tax Commission Appeals in 2019 170 Unpaid Taxes from 2019 Appeals 135,95299 Total Taxes Protected from Enforcement 253,55417 Unenforceable accounts represent 3131 of the Unpaid Balance of Real and Personal Property 253,55417 809,80086 031311 Tax Collection Rate Summary FY 2019 2020 9943 FY 2018 2019 9988 FY 2017 2018 9990 FY 2016 2017 9989 FY 2015 2016 9984 FY 2014 2015 9980 Annual Ad Valorem Levy Real & Personal Property Registered Motor Vehicles FY 2019 2020 Levy 142,412,05324 Collected 141,602,25238 15,892,39862 FY 2018 2019 Levy 117,814,10987 Collected 117,668,89563 15,391,76914 FY 2017 2018 Levy 113,714,90011 Collected 113,595,65756 14,429,89218 FY 2016 2017 Levy 109,207,06352 Collected 109,077,08288 13,967,99650 FY 2015 2016 Levy 105,623,95660 Collected 105,453,20078 12,851,83408 FY 2014 2015 Levy 101,606,91012 Collected 101,400,61532 11,752,55764Page5497 August 3 , 2020 – 10 00 am Continued Summary The North Carolina Department of State Treasurer publishes an annual Summary of Cash and Investments , Property Tax Levies and General Fund Balances Available In the Summary of county collection percentages for all property in fiscal year ending June 30 , 2019 , Johnston County was ranked second , 001 behind the highest ranked county in the state Fiscal year ending June 30 , 2020 proved to be an unexpectedly unusual year as we were forced to deal with COVID - 19 We transitioned staff to telework status , assessing and collecting taxes with limited face - to - face interactions with the public Staff was placed on a rotation to work in the office ensuring telephones were answered and citizens were assisted Additional emphasis was placed on various remote payment and assistance options , one of which included a new telephone payment choice Collections for 2019 - 2020 fiscal year again ended on a positive note with most Johnston County citizens timely paying their share of the tax liability 9208 of the 2019 levy was timely remitted , with an additional 10,442,86928 collected during the delinquent period which began January 7 , 2020 In many ways this was an amazing feat considering enforced collection efforts were paused on March 17 and did not resume until June 1 due to COVID - 19 The final collection rate for fiscal year ending June 30 , 2020 was 9943 Although the overall collection percentage was lower than the prior year , actual collections were 23,933,35675 higher than in any previous period As I reflect on my first full year with Johnston County Tax Administration , I recognize and acknowledge that it took the efforts of many to get to this point The citizens who took seriously their responsibility of paying their fair share to fund the county , county management and other departments who willingly assisted to provide solutions to unique problems , and the Commissioners who supported me and my staff during this unprecedented time made assessing and collecting Johnston County’s ad valorem tax a success Last but not least , I am thankful to a knowledgeable and professional staff who remained steadfast and flexible during this unique time The dedication of all caused a tenuous year to end on a positive note North Carolina General Statute 105 - 373 requires that I provide a settlement of the prior year’s tax collections This settlement is a true and accurate accounting of the 2019 FY 2019 - 2020 taxes and I request that the Johnston County Board of County Commissioners accept this settlement I further request , that as required by North Carolina General Statute 105 - 321 , the Board of Commissioners charge me as Tax Collector with the responsibility for collection of 2020 FY 2020 - 2021 taxes Jocelyn S Andrews Johnston County Tax Collector August 3 , 2020 Motion to Accept the 2019 Tax Settlement and Charge to Tax Administrator to Collect 2020 Taxes Commissioner Chad M Stewart moved the Board accept the above Annual Tax Settlement for 2019 taxes and issue the following charge to the Tax Administrator for collection of 2020 taxes Commissioner Larry Wood seconded the motion , which carried by unanimous vote You are hereby authorized , empowered , and commanded to collect the taxes set forth in the tax records filed in the office of the Tax Administrator and in the tax receipts herewith delivered to you , in the amounts and from the taxpayers likewise therein set forth Such taxes are hereby declared to be a first lien upon all real property of the respective taxpayers in Johnston County , and this order shall be a full and sufficient authority to direct , require , and enable you to levy on and sell any real or personal property of such taxpayers , for and on account thereof , in accordance with law 11 Board Discussion – Future Meeting Schedule The Board discussed the possibility of postponing the 6 00 pm meeting due to the approaching Tropical Storm Isaias Following discussion , it was the consensus of the Board to proceed with the 6 00 pm meeting as scheduled It was also the consensus of the Board to schedule a work session to be held in January 12 Manager Reports and Comments None Page6498 August 3 , 2020 – 10 00 am Continued 13 Board Reports and Comments Chairman Ted G Godwin and Commissioners Tony Braswell and Butch Lawter reported on a follow - up meeting they had with Smithfield Councilman Marlon Lee following his appearance before the Commissioners in July Commissioner Braswell stated the follow - up meeting was very meaningful and he believes everyone understands the charge of how the Board can greater involve the minority community and he looks forward to continued conversations and meetings County Manager Rick Hester agreed with Commissioner Braswell and stated one of the things he mentioned in the follow - up meeting was the importance of having employee training for diversity and inclusion for not only new hires with the County , but ongoing training for existing employees Mr Hester expressed his appreciation for being included in the meeting with Councilman Lee Chairman Godwin stated he applauds Councilman Lee for bringing his concerns to the Board and he stated the conversation would not be put on a shelf Chairman Godwin stated he feels it is incumbent upon the Board of Commissioners to be sensitive and take the appropriate steps to bridge the divide Commissioner Lawter stated he looks at the meeting as a first step and he thinks the Board as well as everyone needs to be willing to listen to other people’s perspective and try to understand Commissioner Lawter stated he thinks there is a commitment from the Board of Commissioners and Councilman Lee to having an open dialogue and continuing the discussions 14 Closed Session – NCGS 14331811 a 3 – Attorney - Client Privilege and NCGS 14331811 a 4 – Economic Development Upon a motion by Commissioner Chad M Stewart , seconded by Commissioner Larry Wood , 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 and 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 No action was taken Commissioner Chad M Stewart moved the Board adjourn closed session and resume regular session Commissioner Larry Wood seconded the motion , which carried by unanimous vote There being no further business , Commissioner Larry Wood moved the Board adjourn Commissioner Jeffrey P Carver seconded the motion , which carried by unanimous vote The meeting adjourned at 12 20 pm Ted G Godwin , Chairman Paula G Woodard , Clerk to the BoardPage