September 1, 2015 - 10:00 AM - County Board of Commissioners Meeting Minutes

10 764 Meeting of the Johnston County Board of Commissioners September 1 , 2015 10 00 am The Johnston County Board of Commissioners met in regular session Tuesday , September 1 , 2015 at 10 00 am in the Commissioners Meeting Room , Johnston County Courthouse Annex , Smithfield , North Carolina The following members were present Present Chairman Tony Braswell , Vice Chairman DeVan Barbour , Cookie Pope , Allen L Mims , Jr , Ted G Godwin , and Chad M Stewart Absent Commissioner Jeffrey P Carver 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 Tony Braswell called the meeting to order at 10 00 am Commissioner Ted G Godwin opened the meeting with a prayer American Legion Post 346 Four Oaks led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag 1 Approval Discussion of Agenda Upon a motion by Commissioner Allen L Mims , Jr , seconded by Commissioner Ted G Godwin , and carried by unanimous vote , the Board approved the agenda deleting Agenda Item No 8 – Public Utilities – Amendment No 4 – Interlocal Agreement with Fuquay - Varina per staff’s request 2 Consent Agenda Items Upon a motion by Commissioner Cookie Pope , seconded by Commissioner DeVan Barbour , and carried by unanimous vote , the Board approved the consent agenda items as follows A Approval of Minutes – August 3 , 2015 10 00 am and 6 00 pm 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 Hazelnut Lane , Roasted Nut Lane , and Peanut Circle – Maplewood Run Phase 2 - C – Smithfield Township Rockport Drive and Hadley Lane – Taft Woods East Section 1 – Wilders Township C Johnston County Schools – Request to Transfer Funds from Current Expense to Capital Outlay Per the request of Johnston County Schools , the Board approved the transfer of 500,000 from Current Expense to Capital Outlay to cover costs associated with several unforeseen circumstances such as the Clayton High School Track Field and replacement of old equipment and furniture at various schools D Proclamation – 2015 Fall Litter Sweep – September 19 through October 3 , 2015 adopted as follows PROCLAMATION FALL LITTER SWEEP 2015 WHEREAS , the North Carolina Department of Transportation organizes an annual fall statewide roadside cleanup to ensure clean and beautiful roads in North Carolina ; and WHEREAS , the FALL LITTER SWEEP roadside cleanup encourages local governments and communities , civic and professional groups , businesses , churches , schools , families and individual citizens to participate in the Department of Transportation cleanup by sponsoring and organizing local roadside cleanups ; andPage765 September 1 , 2015 – 10 00 am Continued WHEREAS , Adopt - A - Highway volunteers , Department of Transportation employees , Department of Public Safety – Division of Adult Correction inmates , community service workers , local government agencies , community leaders , civic and community organizations , businesses , churches , schools , and environmentally concerned citizens conduct annual local cleanups during FALL LITTER SWEEP and may receive certificates of appreciation for their participation ; and WHEREAS , the great natural beauty of our state and a clean environment are sources of great pride for all North Carolinians , attracting tourists and aiding in recruiting new industries ; and WHEREAS , the cleanup will increase awareness of the need for cleaner roadsides , emphasize the importance of not littering , and encourage recycling of solid wastes ; and th WHEREAS , the 2015 FALL LITTER SWEEP will celebrate the 27 Anniversary of the North Carolina Adopt - A - Highway program and its 4,400 volunteer groups that donate their labor and time year round to keep our roadsides clean ; and WHEREAS , the FALL LITTER SWEEP cleanup will be a part of educating the children of this great State regarding the importance of a clean environment to the quality of life in Johnston County and North Carolina ; and NOW , THEREFORE , THE JOHNSTON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS , does hereby proclaim September 19 through October 3 , 2015 as FALL LITTER SWEEP time in Johnston County , and encourages all citizens to take an active role in making their communities cleaner st Adopted this the 1 day of September , 2015 E Proclamation – Child Passenger Safety Week and National Seat Check Saturday adopted as follows CHILD PASSENGER SAFETY WEEK 2015 PROCLAMATION WHEREAS , Children are our country’s most precious resource As parents and caregivers it is our responsibility to keep America’s children safe Every year , thousands of children are tragically injured or killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes For children age 3 and older , it is the leading cause of death It is hard to overstate the toll this takes on families Together we can put an end to this WHEREAS , Today , all 50 States , the District of Columbia , and our Territories have laws requiring the use of child safety seats and seat belts for children traveling in motor vehicles These laws were enacted because of the tremendous safety benefits they provide We know that child safety seats help save lives and reduce injuries We also know that they are most effective when installed and used correctly Sadly , nearly 3 out of 4 child safety seats are not used properly Starting now , working together , we must join forces to prevent these deaths and injuries WHEREAS , Johnston County is committed to working closely with our partners and safety advocates to help reduce the number of young lives lost on our roadways Our goal is to educate parents and caregivers on how to properly install and use child safety seats During Child Passenger Safety Week , there will be hundreds of free child safety seat inspection stations set up across the country We encourage all parents and caregivers to take advantage of this service and ensure that their children are getting the very best protection To locate an inspection station in your area , please go to wwwnhtsagov NOW THEREFORE , We , the Johnston County Board of Commissioners , do hereby proclaim September 13 through September 19 , 2015 as Child Passenger Safety Week and September 19 , 2015 as National Seat Check Saturday We urge everyone to help reduce injuries and the tragic loss of life by buckling up themselves and every child on every trip , every time st Adopted this the 1 day of September , 2015 F Resolution – Firefighters Week in Johnston County – September 6 – 12 , 2015 adopted as follows RESOLUTION PROCLAIMING FIREFIGHTERS WEEK IN JOHNSTON COUNTY Whereas , fighting fires is one of the most hazardous professions requiring physical strength , stamina , extensive training , courage , and selfless concern for the welfare of others ; and Whereas , firefighters provide valuable services to the citizens of Johnston County , their communities , and the County ; and Whereas , firefighters make sacrifices to protect the lives and financial interests of the citizens of Johnston County ; and Whereas , firefighters respond to emergencies without hesitation when the call of duty arises ; and Whereas , firefighters work with public safety officials and law enforcement officers to protect the integrity of crime scenes , which is necessary to resolve arson cases ; and Whereas , firefighters reside in the community in which they serve and have a great appreciation for protecting their communities ; and Whereas , it is appropriate to recognize the duties and services that firefighters perform by observing Firefighters Week in Johnston County Page766 September 1 , 2015 – 10 00 am Continued Now Therefore Be It Resolved by the Johnston County Board of Commissioners that all firefighters deserve to be honored for the invaluable service they provide to the County , its citizens , and communities The Board of Commissioners encourages the citizens of Johnston County to observe the week of September 6 - 12 , 2015 as Firefighters Week in Johnston County st Adopted this the 1 day of September 2015 G Animal Cruelty Officers Appointment Request The Board reappointed Roger Davis and Chad Massengill as the Animal Cruelty Officers to serve Johnston County for one year terms H Tax Releases & Refunds – 07 16 2015 – 08 15 2015 Real Personal Property Releases TRANS DATE TIME USER YR BILL # ACCT # TAXPAYER NAME AMOUNT 7 17 2015 4 51 29 PM ghermane 2015 - 99727 2000045947 WILLIFORD , CECIL LEE 34387 7 27 2015 12 24 13 PM ghermane 2015 - 94947 2000121133 WAKE HEART & VASCULAR ASSOC 1,94262 7 27 2015 12 28 37 PM ghermane 2015 - 94946 2000121132 WAKE HEART & VASCULAR ASSOC 1,37291 7 27 2015 12 35 58 PM ghermane 2015 - 14339 2000164270 BUCHANON , GEORGE E 28407 8 3 2015 4 18 02 PM dwoodward2 2015 - 27990 2000181408 PLACE , DENIS J 2,72821 8 4 2015 11 22 55 AM dwoodward2 2015 - 45730 43464028 JAMES , HARRY JR 37126 8 4 2015 11 27 56 AM dwoodward2 2015 - 45729 2000185859 JAMES , HARRY 2,23106 8 4 2015 11 33 16 AM dwoodward2 2015 - 103752 2000010265 MIMS , ALLEN LESTER JR 31376 8 4 2015 2 28 01 PM cfutch 2013 - 61352 2000115991 MERRITT , LILLIE J LIFE ESTATE 43423 8 4 2015 2 58 21 PM cfutch 2014 - 62513 2000115991 MERRITT , LILLIE J LIFE ESTATE 43423 8 4 2015 3 11 25 PM cfutch 2015 - 63000 2000115991 MERRITT , LILLIE J LIFE ESTATE 43423 8 4 2015 4 01 32 PM dwoodward2 2015 - 6653 2000168461 BARBOUR , KAY FRANCES 1,17949 8 4 2015 4 05 11 PM dwoodward2 2015 - 49102 2000179896 JONES , MICHAEL WAYNE 43413 8 4 2015 4 10 20 PM dwoodward2 2015 - 4505 3255560 ATKINSON , WILLIAM EDWARD 65894 8 5 2015 8 46 00 AM ghermane 2015 - 104701 2000183109 BILL PATTERSON TRUCKING CO INC 10,84990 8 5 2015 2 58 03 PM dwoodward2 2015 - 47348 2000048982 JOHNSON , JAMES T 2,30622 8 5 2015 3 02 09 PM dwoodward2 2015 - 103678 2000180854 WATKINS , ARTHUR WILLIAM 1,99749 8 5 2015 3 08 24 PM dwoodward2 2015 - 9038 2000079470 BEASLEY , WILLIE IRENE S LF EST 43138 8 5 2015 4 06 02 PM ghermane 2015 - 33364 2000089795 G E CAP INF TECH SOL INC 40084 8 5 2015 4 19 15 PM ghermane 2015 - 24863 2000171807 DAVIDSON , W FLAY 40068 8 7 2015 2 38 43 PM cfutch 2015 - 200385 2000164432 LANGDON , JUSTIN LEE 23430 8 7 2015 3 42 06 PM ghermane 2015 - 63544 2000086336 MILLER , SCOTT 31500 8 11 2015 5 00 04 PM dwoodward2 2015 - 87337 83560380 STEPHENSON , LETA GRAY 53265 8 12 2015 8 57 26 AM dwoodward2 2015 - 61463 58657460 MCKOY , ROBERT 31296 8 13 2015 8 56 26 AM ghermane 2015 - 57872 2000158801 LYMAN , MICHELLE LEE 11818 8 13 2015 5 05 19 PM ghermane 2015 - 103844 2000181025 95 TRAVEL MART INC 63800 8 14 2015 10 48 06 AM dwoodward2 2015 - 34227 2000171026 GEOHAGAN , RODNEY JR 2,53224 Real Personal Property Refunds TRANS DATE TIME USER YR BILL # ACCT # TAXPAYER NAME AMOUNT 7 24 2015 2 24 03 PM LOCKBOX 2014 - 102760 2000171769 J & J FLOWERS FINCH INC 29750 7 27 2015 9 59 18 AM awestbrook 2015 - 103540 2000180430 AMERSON , LATREYA DONYEA 28023 7 28 2015 12 51 17 PM jmorrow 2015 - 101186 2000139533 WOODALL , HAROLD W 11785 8 4 2015 11 28 55 AM jmorrow 2015 - 98126 2000161101 WHITTED , ANTHONY 16043 8 5 2015 12 49 47 PM awestbrook 2015 - 104338 2000181659 OAKMONT DEVELOPMENT 1,44712 PARTNERS LLC 8 7 2015 2 40 36 PM LOCKBOX 2015 - 24165 23272120 DAIL , WILLIAM RUSSELL 10000 8 10 2015 4 00 23 PM LOCKBOX 2015 - 103715 2000175348 BAREFOOT , GREGORY D 18696 8 10 2015 4 00 23 PM LOCKBOX 2015 - 8097 2000171965 BARWICK AUTO TRANSPORT 2,60866 8 10 2015 4 00 23 PM LOCKBOX 2015 - 90844 2000165760 THOMAS , CECIL ROGER 23363 8 12 2015 2 28 11 PM jmorrow 2015 - 63906 2000168886 MITCHELL , JOSEPH H LIFE ESTATE 10000 8 13 2015 8 59 40 AM awestbrook 2015 - 103518 2000180358 EXPEDITED LOGISTICS SOL LLC 19954 8 14 2015 2 21 59 PM awestbrook 2015 - 90262 2000031529 TAYLOR , RANDY DEAN 40000Page767 September 1 , 2015 – 10 00 am Continued North Carolina Vehicle Tax System - Pending Refund Report – July 2015 100 + Payee Refund Bill # Transaction Refund Total Name Type # Reason Change BENSON , Adjustment 0023988061 32425558 Over 25174 PRISCILLA gt; 100 Assessment 2906 28080 PEEDIN , Adjustment 0026755627 31625468 Over 7184 JAMES gt; 100 Assessment 5250 12434 WAKE Adjustment 0026860313 48327531 Assessed In 15740 COUNTY gt; 100 Err 11503 REVENUE 3834 31077 71591 August 20 , 2015 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 , Sheila Garner A complete record of this information is on file in the County Finance Office Totals from 7 16 15 to 8 15 15 Tax refunds - Personal Real Property 74189 Tax releases - Personal Real Property 1,74341 Motor Vehicle releases refunds 18962 Recommended by Tax Administrator Sheila Garner Approved by Finance Director J Chad McLamb 3 Public Comments A Resolution Recognizing Danny Kornegay – 2015 Farmer of the Year Director of Cooperative Extension Bryant Spivey informed everyone that Mr Danny Kornegay of Kornegay Family Farms was selected as a 2015 North Carolina winner of the Swisher Sweets Sunbelt Expo Southeastern Farmer of the Year Award Mr Spivey stated this is a great honor for Mr Kornegay and his family and they will be traveling to the Sunbelt Ag Expo Farm Show in Georgia in October where the overall winner will be announced Mr Spivey commented that the Kornegay Family continues a great farming tradition which Mr Kornegay has built through his work and the work of his father , Frank Kornegay Mr Spivey introduced Mr Kornegay’s family members in attendance including Suzie Kornegay , Dan Kornegay III , and Kim Kornegay - Lequire Mr Kornegay stated it is an honor to be recognized at the meeting and to have been selected as a 2015 Farmer of the Year Mr Kornegay noted all the family is involved in the everyday operations of the farm Mr Kornegay stated he loves Johnston County and believes Johnston County has a lot of good things going on and a lot of good farmland The Board congratulated Mr Kornegay on the award Upon a motion by Commissioner Ted G Godwin , seconded by Commissioner Cookie Pope , and carried by unanimous vote , the Board adopted the following resolution recognizing Danny Kornegay of Kornegay Family Farms for being selected as a 2015 North Carolina winner of the Swisher Sweets Sunbelt Expo Southeastern Farmer of the Year Award Commissioner Chad M Stewart read the resolution aloud and presented it to Mr Kornegay RESOLUTION Honoring Frank Daniel Kornegay , Jr 2015 North Carolina Farmer of the Year WHEREAS , the Johnston County Board of Commissioners recognizes that agriculture has always been a cornerstone of Johnston County’s way of life and the Board places an emphasis on the importance of farmers who provide us with the many necessities of life such as food , clothing , and fuel for our energy needs ; and WHEREAS , Frank Daniel “ Danny ” Kornegay , Jr with the Kornegay Family Farm operation has had great success over 45 years of farming through the production of tobacco , sweet potatoes , row crops , and as a contract hog grower on approximately 5,500 acres of land ; and WHEREAS , as a result of this success Danny Kornegay has been selected as a 2015 North Carolina winner of the Swisher Sweets Sunbelt Expo Southeastern Farmer of the Year Award and joins nine other State winners for this prestigious award ; andPagePage pageNumber5768 September 1 , 2015 – 10 00 am Continued WHEREAS , Danny Kornegay will be traveling to the Sunbelt Ag Expo Farm Show in Moultrie , Georgia in October where the overall winner will be announced NOW , THEREFORE , BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE JOHNSTON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS , does hereby congratulate and commend Danny Kornegay on being selected as a 2015 North Carolina Southeastern Farmer of the Year ; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT THE JOHNSTON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS , sincerely appreciates the hard work by Danny Kornegay for continuing the tradition of family farming in Johnston County through the Kornegay Family Farm and wishes him well as he represents Johnston County at the Sunbelt Ag Expo Farm Show in October 2015 st Adopted this 1 day of September , 2015 B Recognition of Johnston County EMS Cadets EMS Division Chief Josh Holloman informed the Board that the Johnston County EMS Cadets placed second in a statewide basic life support competition at the recent North Carolina Association of Rescue and EMS annual convention Mr Holloman stated the cadet team responded to a scenario involving a mass shooting that was very realistic and included multiple victims Mr Holloman reported Johnston County’s EMS Cadets worked calmly and with great skill to mitigate the scenario successfully Mr Holloman stated the team consisted of Taylor Twigg , Tanna Twigg , Christian Hughes , and Zack Carrothers Mr Holloman noted that EMS Captain Kim Grimes coordinates the Cadet Program and does an excellent job The Board congratulated the EMS Cadets on the accomplishment C Update on Recent Veterans Benefit Action Event Director of Veterans Services Robert Boyette and Veterans Services Advisory Board Chairman Rudy Baker provided the Board with an update on the recent Veterans Benefit Action Event that was held August 26 - 28 , 2015 at the Johnston County Agricultural Center Mr Boyette reported an average of 350 veterans attended each day from Johnston County and surrounding counties for a total of over 1,000 veterans He noted that veterans from out of State also attended the event Mr Boyette spoke on the services that were offered at the event and he thanked all those that spoke , helped with the event , and provided food and beverage donations Mr Boyette and Mr Baker both expressed their thoughts that the event was good for the veterans and provided some of them with life - changing results The Board thanked Mr Boyette and Mr Baker along with all those that had a hand in making the event a success D New Emergency Management Coordinator Director of Emergency Services Kim Robertson introduced the County’s new Emergency Management Coordinator Kevin Madsen Ms Robertson stated the Emergency Services Department is delighted to have Mr Madsen on staff as he brings valuable Emergency Management experience and he is also a native of Johnston County Mr Madsen provided the Board with a brief background on his work and experience The Board welcomed Mr Madsen E Upcoming “ Walk to School Day ” Events Health Director Dr Marilyn Pearson stated as part of the Health Department’s Active Routes to School Grant , they will be holding “ Walk to School Day ” events in October Dr Pearson invited the Board of nd Commissioners to attend the events as follows Powhatan Elementary on October 2 , East Clayton Elementary th th th on October 7 , River Dell Elementary on October 8 , and Four Oaks Elementary on October 20 4 Public Hearing – Economic Development Incentive Grant Advertised – The Smithfield Herald – August 19 , 2015 The Chairman opened the public hearing for the purposes of soliciting public comment on a proposal for the County to provide certain economic incentives , pursuant to NCGS 158 - 71 , to a company that is considering the location and or expansion of facilities in Johnston County , North Carolina Economic Development Director Chris Johnson stated the proposal is an Economic Development Incentive Grant EDIG for an existing company that is considering an expansion of their current Johnston County operation Mr Johnson explained that 3C Packaging , located in Clayton , has been in Johnston CountyPagePage pageNumber6769 September 1 , 2015 – 10 00 am Continued since 1983 and they currently employ approximately 180 people Mr Johnson stated 3C Packaging is a supplier for pharmaceutical companies , including Novo Nordisk and Grifols that are also located in the County Mr Johnson reported 3C Packaging is considering an expansion investment of approximately 2 million - 3 million with plans to create 20 new jobs He stated based on the proposed investment and job creation , the Economic Development Advisory Board recommends a three year incentive grant at 50 on any new investment for real and personal property Mr Johnson also reported they are working with the Department of Transportation to improve 3C Packaging’s entrance that will assist them as well as neighboring properties Mr Johnson introduced 3C Packaging Representatives Joe Elphick and Sparky Cullen Mr Elphick thanked the Board for considering the incentive grant for the proposed expansion Mr Elphick stated they enjoy operating in Johnston County and they hope to create even more jobs as they go forward Economic Development Advisory Board Chairman Allen Wellons referenced the Novo Nordisk expansion announcement held last week and stated it is a great thing to have two economic development announcements so close together Mr Wellons commented that 3C Packaging is a good company who received an incentive grant for a past expansion project and it is wonderful to see them continuing to grow Commissioner Ted G Godwin asked about the timeframe for 3C Packaging’s expansion Mr Cullen reported they hope to make the investment over the next 12 to 18 months and add the additional employees over the next three to five years Mr Cullen stated they are continuing to grow and with companies like Novo Nordisk expanding , it will only accelerate their expansion timeline Commissioner Chad M Stewart stated he appreciates the expansion by 3C Packaging noting that all job creations are important no matter how big or small Commissioner Allen L Mims , Jr asked about 3C Packaging’s average salary Mr Cullen stated he estimates their average annual salary somewhere in the 35,000 - 40,000 range Commissioner Cookie Pope expressed her appreciation for the job creation stating everyone is always asking her where and when they can apply for jobs County Attorney Jennifer Slusser reported that based on Mr Johnson’s presentation of the proposed project , should the Board choose to approve the incentive grant , the Board would need to find that the incentive grant is required for the project to go forward and the net public benefit of the incentive grant is the creation of new jobs , increasing the tax base and diversifying the economy Ms Slusser stated if the Board chooses to approve the request , she would ask that the Board approve the incentive grant based on the project summary as presented by Mr Johnson , authorize the County Attorney to finalize the grant agreement consistent with the material terms of the project summary , and authorize the Chairman to execute the final document on behalf of the County There being no further comments , the Chairman closed the public hearing Upon a motion by Commissioner Ted G Godwin , seconded by Commissioner Chad M Stewart , and carried by unanimous vote , the Board approved the Economic Development Incentive Grant terms for 3C Packaging of Clayton as outlined by staff in the project summary , authorized the County Attorney to finalize the grant agreement consistent with the material terms of the project summary , and authorized the Chairman to execute the final documents 5 Department Spotlight – Animal Services Director of Animal Services Ernie Wilkinson thanked the Board for allowing him to spotlight the Animal Services Department Mr Wilkinson recognized his Administrative Assistant Donna Hatcher in the audience and spoke on her support to Animal Services Mr Wilkinson stated Animal Services has come a long way over the past ten years and he thanked the Board for their support to him during that time Mr Wilkinson stated the accomplishments by Animal Services would not have been possible without the teamwork Johnston County enjoys Mr Wilkinson reported Animal Services has been undergoing much needed renovations and improvements at the shelter and he is very thankful for the Board’s support of those projects PagePage pageNumber7770 September 1 , 2015 – 10 00 am Continued Mr Wilkinson stated people are becoming more sensitive to animals than in the past and Johnston County is no exception to that which he commented is a good thing Mr Wilkinson reported four years ago their impound figures were in excess of 9,000 animals annually He stated Animal Services has been working for ten years on educating the communities regarding the care of animals as well as the need to spay and neuter pets Mr Wilkinson also noted that he feels the shelter staff has become more sensitive to citizens ’ needs and he is pleased to report that last year Animal Services impounded 4,437 animals which is half of what was impounded four years ago Mr Wilkinson stated ten years ago if Animal Services held a spay and neuter clinic and performed procedures for 20 animals they felt it was a good event Mr Wilkinson reported last year through the SNAP mobile clinic over 1,700 animals were spayed or neutered which is a big number He stated Animal Services was also able to adopt or rescue 1,600 animals which the shelter staff is very proud of Mr Wilkinson noted of the 4,437 impounded animals , approximately 2,400 of those were feral cats Mr Wilkinson stated Animal Services still has a long way to go ; however , he is extremely proud of the accomplishments of his staff He stated the Johnston County Animal Services staff is the best in the State and are dedicated to helping the animals and citizens of this County Mr Wilkinson explained they are dealing with changes to State regulations , but the shelter facility is in good shape He noted the last phase of the shelter improvements will begin in the next 60 days and although they are always cramped for space , he does not know of any other shelter that does not have that problem Mr Wilkinson spoke on the importance of the volunteer program noting the volunteers are faithful and diligent which helps the staff greatly Mr Wilkinson stated they will continue helping students with school projects because it gives them the opportunity to spread their message which he feels is a blessing Mr Wilkinson reiterated his staff is excellent at what they do and he offered to answer any questions Upon a question by Chairman Tony Braswell , Mr Wilkinson stated Animal Services currently has ten staff members with two of those being part - time He reported they field approximately 200 phone calls each day and the officers respond to approximately 18 – 25 calls each per day Mr Wilkinson noted that approximately 70 of the calls are leash law violations At the inquiry of Commissioner Allen L Mims , Jr , Mr Wilkinson reported Animal Services does check every animal that comes in to the shelter for a microchip , which is State law Mr Wilkinson invited everyone to attend the annual Animal Services Open House on September 12 , 2015 from 9 00 am until 3 00 pm at the Animal Shelter The Board expressed their appreciation to Animal Services for their work and dedication 6 Mental Health – Proclamation for National Recovery Month Margaret Hinnant , Community Relations Supervisor for Johnston County Mental Health , requested the Board adopt a proclamation for September 2015 as National Recovery Month Ms Hinnant reported every September the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration sponsors National Recovery Month to increase awareness of behavioral health conditions This observance promotes the belief that behavioral health is essential to health , prevention works , treatment is effective , and people recover from mental and or substance use disorders Ms Hinnant stated the theme for this year is “ Join the Voices for Recovery ” Commissioner Ted G Godwin commented at the recent 2015 North Carolina Association of County Commissioners Conference there was an emphasis on mental health and he feels it would be a disservice to not recognize and support the effort Upon a motion by Commissioner Ted G Godwin , seconded by Commissioner Cookie Pope , and carried by unanimous vote , the Board adopted the following proclamation PROCLAMATION National Recovery Month September 2015 WHEREAS , behavioral health is an essential part of health and one’s overall wellness ; and WHEREAS , prevention of mental and or substance use disorders works , treatment is effective , and people recover in our area and around the nation ; and WHEREAS , preventing and overcoming mental and or substance use disorders is essential to achieving healthy lifestyles , both physically and emotionally ; and WHEREAS , we must encourage relatives and friends of people with mental and or substance use disorders to implement preventive measures , recognize the signs of a problem , and guide those in need to appropriate treatment and recovery support services ; andPagePage pageNumber8771 September 1 , 2015 – 10 00 am Continued WHEREAS , in 2013 , 25 million people aged 12 or older received substance use treatment at a specialty facility and 356 million adults aged 18 or older received mental health services , according to the 2013 National Recovery Survey on Drug Use and Health Given the serious nature of this public health problem , we must continue to reach the millions more who need help ; and WHEREAS , an estimated 44,943 people in Johnston County are affected by these conditions , and WHEREAS , to help more people achieve and sustain long - term recovery , the US Department of Health and Human Services HHS , the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration SAMHSA , the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy ONDCP , and Johnston County Substance Use Collaborative invite all residents of Johnston County to participate in National Recovery Month NOW , THEREFORE , THE JOHNSTON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS , does hereby proclaim September 2015 as National Recovery Month in Johnston County and calls upon the citizens of Johnston County to observe this month with appropriate programs , activities , and ceremonies to support this year’s Recovery Month st Adopted this 1 day of September , 2015 7 Flowers Plantation – Presentation Regarding NC Hwy 42 East Widening and Impacts Ramey Kemp of Ramey Kemp & Associates , representing Flowers Plantation , presented information to the Board regarding the North Carolina Department of Transportation’s plans to widen NC Hwy 42 and how those plans could impact Flowers Plantation Mr Kemp explained the proposed widening project noting that approximately 24 miles of the roadway to be widened will front Flowers Plantation Mr Kemp reported that Flowers Plantation began development many years ago and now consists of approximately 3,000 residential units that have been sold within the 3,000 acre planned unit development which is approved for 8,000 residential units total He noted according to recent population data , there are approximately 14,000 people living within three miles of the Percy Flowers Store and at the current rate of growth the population of the area is expected to reach 30,000 people within the next 20 years Mr Kemp stated Flowers Plantation also consists of two elementary schools ; two retail centers ; and a 20,000 sq ft clubhouse with a café , three swimming pools , spa , and indoor outdoor fitness facilities He noted there are miles of private streets and trails that have been developed by Flowers Plantation for walking , biking , and golf carts Mr Kemp continued that the population of Flowers Plantation at build - out is expected to reach 24,000 people He stated the average household income within a three mile radius of the area is approximately 85,000 per year and the average home value is approximately 250,000 Mr Kemp reported Flowers Plantation has been named the Development of the Year by the North Carolina Homebuilders in 2013 and 2014 and are nominated again for 2015 He noted the development consists of families living in the community with school - aged children ; however , it is also a community for retirees Mr Kemp stated the private trail system built for walking , biking , and golf carts encourages residents to a more sociable environment He stated Flowers Plantation is a self - sustaining community with each household paying annual dues for the maintenance of private roads , the water system , garbage collection , and other miscellaneous services Mr Kemp explained the proposed plans by the Department of Transportation to widen NC Hwy 42 and pointed out the proposed improvements on a map for the Board He stated the increased traffic on NC Hwy 42 has created a need to widen it to four lanes and the Department of Transportation has made the project a priority Mr Kemp stressed that with all the improvements the Department of Transportation is planning , it is crucial to the continued growth of the Flowers Plantation community that the widening of NC Hwy 42 be done to compliment the community and not divide it Mr Kemp reviewed plans for the future growth of Flowers Plantation and stated they would like to see the NC Hwy 42 widening project completed with curb and gutter along the outside lanes as well as good cross access from the side streets He noted in the future some of the side streets will warrant traffic signals and he discussed the need for full movement access Mr Kemp stated his firm has completed a desired concept drawing for the planned widening which he plans to leave a copy with the Commissioners after his presentation Mr Kemp stated on the drawing there are five potential locations for traffic signals and they would like to see the speed limit reduced Mr Kemp stated Flowers Plantation would like for the Commissioners to review the design and consider adopting it as a guide for the current and future construction of NC Hwy 42 Mr Kemp noted he realizes more studies and meetings will be needed and they would like to see a cooperative attitude as plans move forward Mr Kemp reiterated the need to maintain a main street village type atmosphere for Flowers Plantation and stated it is critical to have safe crossings Mr Kemp asked for the Board’s support for the design Mr Kemp introduced Rebecca Flowers and Reid Stephenson in the audience and offered to answer any questions Chairman Tony Braswell asked Mr Kemp to allow the Board time to study the information presented and he also asked Commissioner Ted G Godwin to visit with District Engineer Tim Little and discuss thePagePage pageNumber9772 September 1 , 2015 – 10 00 am Continued information Chairman Braswell noted that Commissioner Godwin is the current Chairman of the Hwy 70 Corridor Commission and represents the Board on transportation matters Chairman Braswell also instructed staff to review the information with the Planning Board Chairman Braswell stated the Board appreciates the information as Flowers Plantation is a very valuable asset to Johnston County Mr Kemp thanked the Board for their consideration 8 Public Utilities – Proposed McGee’s Crossroads Sewer Consolidation Project Director of Utilities Chandra Coats stated Johnston County’s policies allow for existing and future wastewater service to the McGee’s Crossroads area for schools , commercial development , and residential development inside the Interstate Highway Interchange District She reported an existing 6 ” PVC force main serves to transmit wastewater from the area to the County’s regional wastewater pump station at the landfill and the existing force main is at capacity Ms Coats stated staff recommends applying for a State Revolving Fund Loan for a proposed “ McGee’s Crossroads Sewer Consolidation Project ” to include potential upgrades of existing wastewater pump stations flows in the McGee’s Crossroads area and an additional force main to serve the area Upon a motion by Commissioner Cookie Pope , seconded by Commissioner Chad M Stewart , and carried unanimously , the Board adopted the following resolution authorizing the submission of an application for a State Revolving Fund Loan and designating signature authority to County Manager Rick Hester for the McGee’s Crossroads Sewer Consolidation Project RESOLUTION BY GOVERNING BODY OF APPLICANT WHEREAS , The Federal Clean Water Act Amendments of 1987 and the North Carolina the Water Infrastructure Act of 2005 NCGS 159G have authorized the making of loans and grants to aid eligible units of government in financing the cost of construction of a wastewater collection project , and WHEREAS , Johnston County has need for and intends to construct a wastewater collection project described as the McGee’s Crossroads Sewer Consolidation Project , and WHEREAS , Johnston County intends to request state loan assistance for the project , NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED , BY THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF JOHNSTON COUNTY That Johnston County , the Applicant , will arrange financing for all remaining costs of the project , if approved for a State loan award That the Applicant will adopt and place into effect on or before completion of the project a schedule of fees and charges and other available funds which will provide adequate funds for proper operation , maintenance , and administration of the system and the repayment of all principal and interest on the debt That the governing body of the Applicant agrees to include in the loan agreement a provision authorizing the State Treasurer , upon failure of the Johnston County to make scheduled repayment of the loan , to withhold from the Johnston County any State funds that would otherwise be distributed to the local government unit in an amount sufficient to pay all sums then due and payable to the State as a repayment of the loan That the Applicant will provide for efficient operation and maintenance of the project on completion of construction thereof That Rick J Hester , County Manager , the Authorized Official , and successors so titled , is hereby authorized to execute and file an application on behalf of the Applicant with the State of North Carolina for a loan to aid in the construction of the project described above That the Authorized Official , 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 as contained above ; and to execute such other documents as may be required in connection with the application That the Applicant 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 September 1 , 2015 at Smithfield , North Carolina 9 Budget Revisions Assistant County Manager and Finance Officer Chad McLamb requested the Board to approve the budget revisions listed in the agenda packet and offered to answer any questions Commissioner Allen L Mims , Jr moved the Board approve the following budget amendments , seconded by Commissioner Cookie Pope , and carried by unanimous vote Page0773 September 1 , 2015 – 10 00 am Continued Emergency Services - EMS REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 10 535536204 Rescue Squad Billings 30,60100 10 53554500 Contract Services 30,60100 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 000 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE TOTAL NET REVENUE 000 Emergency Services – Emergency Management REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 10 535533306 Community Paramedic Program 7,57695 10 53554600 Medical Supplies 6,17144 10 53553100 Fuels 7331 10 53551100 Telephone 17988 10 53550200 Salaries & Wages 1,15232 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 000 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE TOTAL NET REVENUE 000 Health REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 10 59707050 Non Major Capital Assets 92,00000 10 59757050 Non Major Capital Assets 92,00000 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 184,00000 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 10 597034155 Johnston MCO 92,00000 10 597534155 Johnston MCO 92,00000 TOTAL NET REVENUE 184,00000 Jail REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 10 52003300 Departmental Supplies 1,05000 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 1,05000 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 10 520033099 Miscellaneous Revenue 1,05000 TOTAL NET REVENUE 1,05000 Sheriff REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE Page1774 September 1 , 2015 – 10 00 am Continued 10 51001700 Vehicles 1,50000 10 51003100 Fuels 14720 10 51003200 Office Supplies 1453 10 51004300 Special Services 28500 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 1,94673 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 10 510033099 Miscellaneous Revenue 1,94673 TOTAL NET REVENUE 1,94673 10 Appointments Nursing Home Adult Care Home Community Advisory Board – Upon a motion by Commissioner Chad M Stewart , seconded by Commissioner Cookie Pope , and carried unanimously , the Board appointed Nacy Washington for a one year initial term to expire on October 31 , 2016 11 Delinquent Tax Collection Report Tax Administrator Sheila Garner reported on the collection of delinquent taxes for the month of August 2015 She presented the following information Enforced Collections August 2015 YTD 15 16 Wage Garnishments 10 20 Bank Attachments 16 21 Levys 0 0 Foreclosures Complaints Filed August 2015 8 24 Pending Dollars Collected August 2015 9,80579 North Carolina State Income Tax Debt Setoff As of August 31 , 2015 1 Accounts 4011 YTD 15 16 6 Accounts 65895 As of August 31 , 2015 , the Tax Department has collected 0813 of the real and personal levy for 2015 The next foreclosure sale date is scheduled for September 29 , 2015 The registered motor vehicle collections for August 2015 are 1,020,43246 and YTD 15 - 16 is 2,139,31102 Ms Garner stated a total of 2,232 calls were received in the ten days following the mailing of the 2015 tax bills and 641 payment plans have been made as of August 31 , 2015 12 Manager Reports and Comments A Johnston County Schools – 2016 Bond Referendum Request County Manager Rick Hester reported he had received a copy of a resolution adopted by the Johnston County Board of Education asking for the Board of County Commissioners to call for a 2016 School Bond Referendum Mr Hester stated staff anticipates receiving financial information in terms of debt capacities in the next 30 to 45 days and he will share that information with the Board Mr Hester noted there are a lot of projects to plan for B JoCo Teen Drivers Training Workshop Kick - off Meeting County Manager Rick Hester reported that he along with Chairman Tony Braswell and Commissioners Cookie Pope and Ted G Godwin attended this past Saturday’s annual training workshop kick - off meeting of the JoCo Teen Drivers Page2775 September 1 , 2015 – 10 00 am Continued 13 Board Reports and Comments A Recent Funeral for Firefighter Christopher Joe Daniels Commissioner Chad M Stewart stated he attended the recent funeral for Firefighter Christopher Joe Daniels Commissioner Stewart stated the funeral was very well coordinated and he thanked the Fire and Emergency personnel that were involved for their participation Commissioner Stewart stated the funeral was a good tribute for a good man B Distribution of Newspapers Commissioner Ted G Godwin stated he recently visited a citizen who expressed concerns regarding newspapers being thrown out into driveways and becoming a trash problem Commissioner Godwin asked Smithfield Herald Reporter John Hamlin in the audience if he knew of a contact person with the newspaper who he could talk with about the concerns Mr Hamlin stated he would look into the matter for Commissioner Godwin and provide him with a contact name number C E - mail from Concerned Citizen – Blocking of Roadways Commissioner Allen L Mims , Jr noted the Board received an e - mail from a citizen about law enforcement blocking roadways for a recent funeral Commissioner Mims stated the citizen indicated in the e - mail that they were told by law enforcement that they could not travel down the road to get to their home Commissioner Mims expressed concerns that the roads were closed to homeowners trying to get to their homes and asked if instead law enforcement could allow the homeowners to proceed to their homes and advise them to proceed with caution around the funeral traffic Commissioner Mims stated homeowners should be allowed to go and come from their homes County Manager Rick Hester stated he would look into the matter D Hospital Authority Appointments Commissioner DeVan Barbour noted the Hospital Authority nominations were tabled at the August meeting Commissioner Barbour continued that he has studied the Hospital Authority appointments and at this time under the Board’s current policies and practices , he recommends the Board nominating the current three applicants for the three open positions and then sending the nominations on to the Hospital Authority for their review and recommendation Commissioner DeVan Barbour moved the Board nominate Dr Robert Bylciw , Mr Ricky Young , and Mr Alan “ Chip ” Hewett for the three open positions currently on the Hospital Authority and for those nominations to be forwarded to the Hospital Authority Commissioner Chad M Stewart seconded the motion which carried unanimously 14 Closed Session – NCGS 14331811 a 3 – Attorney Client Privilege Upon a motion by Commissioner Ted G Godwin , seconded by Commissioner Chad M Stewart , and carried by unanimous vote , the Board recessed regular session to sit in closed session in accordance with NCGS § 143 - 31811 a 3 Attorney Client Privilege No action was taken Commissioner Allen L Mims , Jr moved the Board adjourn closed session and resume regular session Commissioner Cookie Pope seconded the motion , which carried by unanimous vote There being no further business , Commissioner Chad M Stewart moved the Board adjourn Commissioner Cookie Pope seconded the motion , which carried by unanimous vote The meeting adjourned at 11 45 am ____________________________ Tony Braswell , Chairman Paula G Woodard , Clerk to the BoardPage