April 17, 2023 - 6:00 PM - County Board of Commissioners Meeting Minutes

10 463 Meeting of the Johnston County Board of Commissioners April 17 , 2023 6 00 pm The Johnston County Board of Commissioners met in regular session Monday , April 17 , 2023 at 6 00 pm in the Commissioners Meeting Room , Johnston County Courthouse Annex , Smithfield , North Carolina The following members were present Present Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr , Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris , Tony Braswell , Ted G Godwin , Fred J Smith , Jr , Richard D Braswell and April Stephens via zoom Absent None Also Present County Manager Rick J Hester , Finance Officer and Deputy County Manager J Chad McLamb , Clerk to the Board Dana G Cuddington , and Executive Assistant Deputy Clerk Susie Reeves Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr called the meeting to order at 6 00 pm Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris opened the meeting with a prayer Commissioner Fred J Smith , Jr led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag Chairman Lawter announced that Commissioner April Stephens was joining the meeting via zoom Chairman Lawter reminded everyone that there had been six priorities set by the Board for Johnston County including Infrastructure , Financial Stewardship , Land Use , Public Safety , Educational Funding , and County Employees He noted the Board keeps the priorities in mind when considering each of the agenda items 1 Approval Discussion of Agenda Upon a motion by Commissioner Ted G Godwin , seconded by Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris , and carried by unanimous vote , the Board approved the agenda as presented 2 Resolution Recognizing Elite Xpress Track and Field All - Americans Health Director Dr Marilyn Pearson stated she is the Chair and Coach of the Elite Express Track and Field Club which is the only youth club in track and field in Johnston County She stated the participants are ages 5 - 18 and competed in the Amateur Athletic Union AAU and the United States of America Track and Field USATF championships this year She introduced Coaches Desmond Kennedy , James McClean , Barry Austin , Chris McIver , Tony Saunders , and Ronald Stallings stating they are all volunteer coaches Dr Pearson stated the goal of the club is to develop the athletes to advance past high school and to mentor them to help them become good citizens She stated several athletes participated in the AAU Indoor National Championship in Virginia Beach , Virginia She introduced the following athletes that competed in the championships • Nila Simpston - placed third in the 1500 meter race and walk • Kingston Bullock - placed eighth in the 1500 meter run • Aaron Austin – placed sixth in the high jump and sixth in the shot put • Barry Austinn – placed second in the 15 - 16 shot put • James McClean – placed eighth in the 15 - 16 long jump • Ryan Davis - placed third in the shot put • Kendall Davis – placed fourth in the high jump and fifth in the shot put The Board applauded the athletes on their accomplishments Dr Pearson also stated some of the coaches participated in the masters in track and field noting that all are invited to participate ages 19 and over Dr Pearson introduced the following athletes that competed and placed in the USATF Indoor Masters National Championship in Kentucky • Chris McIver 40 - 44 age group - first in high jump and fifth in long jump • Tony Saunders 50 - 54 age group - third in shot put • Ronald Stallings 60 - 64 age group - first in long jump , first in triple jump , and third in the 60 meters Dr Pearson thanked the Board of Commissioners for recognizing the athletes At the inquiry of Commissioner Ted G Godwin , Dr Pearson stated Smithfield Selma High School allows them to use their track facilities for training She stated the athletes have also started training at Corinth Holders High School one day a week Page464 April 17 , 2023 – 6 00 pm Continued Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr noted that individual letters of congratulations will be given to each of the athletes from the Board of Commissioners Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris read aloud the following resolution and moved for its adoption Commissioner Ted G Godwin seconded the motion which carried unanimously RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING ELITE XPRESS TRACK AND FIELD ALL - AMERICANS WHEREAS , the Elite Xpress Track and Field Club was formed in 2019 with a vision of promoting the sport of track and field in Johnston County ; and WHEREAS , the Elite Xpress Track and Field Club is the only youth track and field club in Johnston County ; and WHEREAS , the Elite Xpress Track and Field Club is affiliated with the AAU Amateur Athletic Union and USATF USA Track and Field ; and WHEREAS , the Johnston County Board of Commissioners takes pride in recognizing the accomplishments of all athletic teams in Johnston County ; and WHEREAS , the Elite Xpress Track and Field Club attended the 2023 AAU Indoor National Championships in Virginia Beach , Virginia ; and WHEREAS , the coaches of Elite Xpress Track and Field Club attended the USATF Indoor Masters National Championships in Kentucky ; and WHEREAS , the Elite Xpress Track and Field Club and the coaches represented Johnston County well at this national level by placing near the top in many of the events held ; and WHEREAS , the Johnston County Board of Commissioners recognizes that these great accomplishments bring nationwide recognition and distinction to all of Johnston County NOW THEREFORE , BE IT RESOLVED , that the Johnston County Board of Commissioners hereby publicly recognizes and congratulates the Elite Xpress Track and Field All - Americans for their participation and achievements at the 2023 AAU Indoor National Championships and the USATF Indoor Masters National Championships Adopted this the 17th day of April , 2023 3 Consent Agenda Items Upon a motion by Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris , seconded by Commissioner Ted G Godwin , and carried by unanimous vote , the Board approved the consent agenda items as follows A Approval of Minutes – March 20 , 2023 6 00 pm B HAPP – Approval of the Fiscal Year 2023 - 2024 Annual Plan The Board approved the Fiscal Year 2023 - 2024 Annual Plan for HAPP as submitted in the agenda packet C Sheriff’s Office – Approval of the Jail Medical Contract and Jail Health Plan Per the request of Sheriff Steve Bizzell , the Board approved the Contract for Inmate Medical Services Institutional Medical Services , PLLC and IMS Correctional HealthCare , LLC with an effective date of May 1 , 2023 and approved the Jail Health Plan as submitted in the agenda packet , with an effective date of May 1 , 2023 Page465 April 17 , 2023 – 6 00 pm Continued D Appointments • Bentonville Fire Protection District Commission – Reappointed Anthony Wayne Westbrook for a two year term to expire on April 30 , 2025 and granted Mr Westbrook a waiver in the length of service policy • Bentonville Firefighters Relief Fund Board – Reappointed Porter Jones for a two year term to expire on April 30 , 2025 • Claytex Fire Protection District Commission – Reappointed Jimmy D McLaurin , Jr for a two year term to expire on April 30 , 2025 and granted Mr McLaurin a waiver in the length of service policy • Shoeheel Fire Protection District Commission – Reappointed Roger Johnson for a two year term to expire on April 30 , 2025 and granted Mr Johnson a waiver in the length of service policy • Shoeheel Firefighters Relief Fund Board – Reappointed Matthew Ryan Blackman for a two year term to expire on April 30 , 2025 • Pleasant Grove Community Building Board of Trustees – Reappointed Natalie Rouse for a two year term to expire on April 30 , 2025 E Budget Revisions , approved as follows Health REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 10 5910 - 1400 Travel 15,00000 10 5910 - 3300 Departmental Supplies 25,00000 10 5910 - 7050 Non - Major Capital Assets 12,24000 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 52,24000 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 10 5910 - 34155 State Grant 52,24000 TOTAL NET REVENUE 52,24000 Finance REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 10 63009019 Transfer to School Capital Project Fund 7,500,00000 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 7,500,00000 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 10 460033990 Fund Balance Appropriated 7,500,00000 TOTAL NET REVENUE 7,500,00000 Finance REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 16 63220515 Land for School 1,000,00000 16 63221018 Cooper Elementary School 1,000,00000 16 63221065 New Wilson’s Mills Area High School 4,500,00000 16 63221066 New Swift Creek Area Elementary School 1,000,00000 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 7,500,00000 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 16 632232507 Transfer from General Fund 7,500,00000Page466 April 17 , 2023 – 6 00 pm Continued TOTAL NET REVENUE 7,500,00000 Social Services REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 10 61354655 Work First Transportation 5,78200 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 5,78200 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 10 610034123 Social Services Administration 5,78200 TOTAL NET REVENUE 5,78200 4 Public Comments A Citizen Comments – Erika Hall Erika Hall , Clayton , addressed the Board stating she is representing Down Home North Carolina and she has three children in the public school system Ms Hall stated Johnston County Schools is the largest employer in the County She continued that teachers are using their own money for classroom supplies which is a burden on teachers Ms Hall spoke on teacher shortages and stated many are leaving the profession due to being overworked , not having resources , and feeling undervalued Ms Hall stated teachers seek donations from parents and community members to cover basic supplies ; however , she feels it is a collective responsibility to make sure the teachers and students have access to the proper resources Ms Hall asked the Board to approve a reoccurring budget line item that would allocate 350 per teacher in Johnston County B Citizen Comments – Susan Wilson Susan Wilson , Kenly , stated she represents Down Home North Carolina and they are concerned about the quality of education Ms Wilson spoke on the role of teachers in shaping the future of children and how they are challenged with providing the necessary materials for students Ms Wilson stated teachers spend their own salary to purchase classroom supplies which can affect their personal finances as well as the learning experiences for the students Ms Wilson stated a budget line item dedicated to providing funding for supplies would alleviate the problem and allow teachers to develop innovative and engaging lesson plans to further enhance the learning experience of children in Johnston County Schools Ms Wilson asked the Board to consider approving a budget line item that would allocate 350 per teacher for classroom supplies Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr stated the Board of Commissioners values teachers for their hard work and dedication to the students Chairman Lawter continued that the Board of Commissioners considers the budget request of Johnston County Public Schools as it is received from the Board of Education and this request should be directed towards the Board of Education Chairman Lawter asked for everyone that came to the meeting to speak on this request to stand and be recognized C Citizen Comments – Allen Hall Allen Hall , Clayton , addressed the Board stating he understands the Board of Education presents the budget request to the Commissioners , but the Board of Commissioners have set a precedent in the past by withholding funds until such time as an anti - CRT policy was enacted Mr Hall stated the request for funds is a budget recommendation to the County to support the teachers and he believes the request should be directed to the Board of Commissioners Commissioner Ted G Godwin asked for an explanation of what is Down Home North Carolina D Citizen Comments – Elizabeth Lynn Elizabeth Lynn , Regional Organizer for Down Home North Carolina , stated they are a community group working with citizens to build up their leadership and address the Board of Commissioners and the Board of Education to have a seat at the table She stated education is a pressing issue in Johnston County and allocating a line item for each teacher would help with the lack of resources in schools Ms Lynn stated the Board of Commissioners does have the ability to provide additional funding to Johnston County Schools and she would be happy to meet with the Commissioners and further discuss their purpose PagePage pageNumber5467 April 17 , 2023 – 6 00 pm Continued Commissioner Tony Braswell explained that the Board of Education presents a budget request to the Board of Commissioners for consideration He continued that the Board of Education is a duly elected board and they have a right to set their own budget He noted the Board of Commissioners has funded their request 100 for the last two years Commissioner T Braswell commented that he also has children in school and he does understand the concern He stated this should be a priority of the Board of Education to provide necessary funds for the teachers Ms Lynn stated their plan is to work with both the Board of Education and the Board of County Commissioners , but they wanted to bring awareness to the issue Commissioner T Braswell stated he can appreciate what Down Home North Carolina is trying to do Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr stated the Board of Education will provide their budget request to the Board of Commissioners by May 15 , 2023 Chairman Lawter reiterated that the Commissioners appreciate everything the teachers are doing for the children in Johnston County Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris agreed with Chairman Lawter that the Board of Education is the correct board to address regarding the request ; however , he offered to meet with representatives from Down Home North Carolina to further discuss their concerns E Citizen Comment – B Grissom , III B Grissom , III , Clayton , stated he appreciates the Board’s professionalism by telling the group the right things that they need to do He further stated that they are young and are trying to learn and those that act unprofessional need to do better F Citizen Comments – Shakira Frazier Shakira Frazier , Wilson’s Mills , expressed her support for the request to have a reoccurring budget line item appropriating 350 for each teacher to purchase supplies Ms Frazier stated she currently homeschools her children ; however , she wants to move them to the public school system She stated Wake County Schools is recruiting Johnston County teachers with higher pay and she wants the Board to help provide an incentive to compete with Wake County 5 Public Utilities – Timothy G Broome Water Treatment Plant Design Build 14 - 18 MGD Expansion Proposed Updated Contract and Revised Capital Project Budget Public Utilities Director Chandra Farmer stated on November 7 , 2022 , the Board of Commissioners authorized a contract and adopted a capital project budget for Phase 1 of the Timothy G Broome Water Treatment Plant 14 - 18 MGD Expansion In addition to technical services from the County’s Owner Advisor HDR Engineering , Phase 1 included Phase 1A overall project scoping design workshops , development of an initial opinion of cost , design services through a 30 submittal package with cost opinion update ; and Phase 1B design completion to 100 with the preparation and delivery of a Guaranteed Maximum Price GMP and schedule for Phase 2 Ms Farmer stated staff proposes funding the project with 2023 Water & Sewer Revenue Bonds She stated the revenue bond process is underway , and the County should receive a final guaranteed maximum price GMP by early June The schedule would be for all revenue bonds to be sold in July Ms Farmer stated in order to maintain the project schedule of completion by Spring 2025 , staff recommends approval of an early equipment work package prior to agreement of a GMP She noted the contractor has bid several project components with long lead times and the proposed early equipment work package includes filters , generators , electrical switchgear , variable frequency drives and pumps Ms Farmer stated in addition , the County is responsible to procure the Claricone directly for this project , which also has a significant delivery time She presented the following proposed budget Existing Proposed Expenses Technical Services 765,00000 765,00000 Construction Design Build Phase 1 6,264,41700 6,264,41700 Early Equipment Procurement Package 7,990,31700PagePage pageNumber6468 April 17 , 2023 – 6 00 pm Continued Early Work Package 3,110,42500 Claricone Procurement 1,640,00000 Construction Administration 1,887,26500 Final Engineering Design 1,550,00000 Contingency _____________ 1,569,99300 TOTAL 7,029,41700 24,777,41700 Revenues Water SDF Reserve Fund 7,029,41700 7,029,41700 2023 Water Sewer Revenue Bonds ____________ 17,748,00000 TOTAL 7,029,41700 24,777,41700 Ms Farmer stated staff respectfully requests the Board’s approval to proceed with the early equipment work packages , associated construction administration and design packages , approval of the proposed revised capital project budget and approval of the capital project ordinance She stated the total cost would be 24,777,41700 that would be funded from the upcoming revenue bonds She stated if there were any financial issues , fund balance would cover the funds At the inquiry of Commissioner Richard D Braswell , Ms Farmer stated the Claricones are on order and based on the draw from the river and the near - term assumptions , 18 mgd will be the maximum treatment capacity at the plant site She stated there will be ongoing discussions about the future water supply Upon a motion by Commissioner Richard D Braswell , seconded by Commissioner Ted G Godwin , and carried by unanimous vote , the Board approved for staff to proceed with the early equipment work packages , associated construction administration and design packages , approved the revised capital project budget as presented , and adopted the following capital project ordinance for the Timothy G Broome Water Treatment Plant Design Build 14 - 18 MGD Expansion CAPITAL PROJECT ORDINANCE FOR THE TIMOTHY G BROOME WATER TREATMENT PLANT DESIGN BUILD 14 - 18 MILLIONS GALLONS PER DAY EXPANSION 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 Section 1 The project authorized is the Timothy G Broom Water Treatment Plant Design Build 14 - 18 MGD Expansion Project the “ Project ” The Project consists of all design , engineering , permitting and construction to expand the existing water plant treatment capacity from 14 MGD to 18 MGD The Project is to be financed by a portion of the County’s Water and Sewer System Revenue Bonds , Series 2023 the “ 2023 Revenue Bonds ” and an appropriation from the Water System Development Fees Reserve Fund the “ Water SDF Reserve Fund ” Section 2 The officers of the County are hereby directed to proceed with the capital Project within the terms of the Revenue Bond Order , the Master Trust Indenture and the Second Supplemental Trust Agreement authorizing and securing the 2023 Revenue Bonds collectively the “ Revenue Bond Documents , applicable State and federal regulations and the budget contained herein Section 3 The following amounts are appropriated for the Project Technical Services 765,000 Construction 22,442,424 Contingency 1,569,993 Total 24,777,417 Section 4 The following revenues are anticipated to be available to complete this Project Transfer from SDF Reserve Fund 7,029,417 Revenue Bonds 17,748,000 Total 24,777,417 Section 5 The 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 Revenue Bond Documents shall be met PagePage pageNumber7469 April 17 , 2023 – 6 00 pm Continued Section 6 Funds may be advanced from the Water SDF Reserve Fund and from the County’s Water Fund for the purpose of making payments as due Reimbursement requests from the 2023 Revenue Bonds trustee and invested 2023 Revenue Bonds proceeds will be requested in an orderly and timely manner Section 7 The 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 of Commissioners , the Budget Officer and the Director of Finance for direction in carrying out this Project Amended this 17th day of April , 2023 6 Public Utilities – Duchess Downs Gravity Sewer Outfall Revised Capital Project Budget Public Utilities Director Chandra Farmer stated on June 7 , 2022 , the Board adopted a capital project budget for the Duchess Downs Gravity Sewer Outfall project to begin preliminary project routing design She stated the project is included in the previously approved 2022 Water and Sewer Capital Improvements Plan and includes a gravity sewer outfall from the existing Duchess Downs Wastewater Pump Station to the Adams Point WWPS located in Adams Pointe Subdivision Ms Farmer explained the outfall will allow for the abandonment of the existing Duchess Downs WWPS She noted the existing WWPS is currently at capacity based on actual and committed flows and station upsizing would be very expensive due to no three - phase power available in the vicinity Ms Farmer stated the proposed wastewater facilities will serve existing and future development on the west side of the I - 40 NC 42 interchange and the area between NC 50 and Old Drug Store Road She stated the preliminary project routing has been completed , and in order to proceed with the detailed project design , staff recommends a revised capital project budget for completed project design and easement acquisition , as follows Existing Proposed Technical Design Services 100,00000 573,10000 Easement Acquisition ____________ 250,00000 Total 100,00000 823,10000 Ms Farmer stated the proposed funding for the project is from the Wastewater System Development Fee Capital Reserve account She stated staff respectfully requests the Board’s approval of the proposed project budget and associated budget revision Upon a motion by Commissioner Richard D Braswell , seconded by Commissioner Ted G Godwin , and carried by unanimous vote , the Board approved the revised budget as presented by staff and approved the following associated budget revision for the Duchess Downs Gravity Sewer Outfall REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 83 85720406 Technical Services 723,10000 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 723,10000 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 83 857236270 723,10000 Transfer from SDF Reserve Fund for Capital Projects TOTAL NET REVENUE 723,10000 7 Public Utilities – Johnston County Long Term Water Supply Plan Public Utilities Director Chandra Farmer stated the Long Term Water Supply Plan began in late 2019 She stated staff has been working with all the partners in the County to ensure projections are accurate for the long term water supply options Ms Farmer introduced representatives from Hazen & Sawyer Tom Tant , Reed Palmer , and Karen Saunders to present an update to the Board on Johnston County’s Long Term Water Supply Plan Ms Farmer also recognized Johnston County Engineering Manager Kim Rineer Mr Palmer provided a system overview , as follows PagePage pageNumber8470 April 17 , 2023 – 6 00 pm ContinuedPagePage pageNumber9471 April 17 , 2023 – 6 00 pm Continued Mr Palmer stated water treatment capacity will reach its maximum at 18 million gallons per day mgd due to limitations by the State to have a net withdrawal of 15 mgd Mr Palmer reported the County has purchase agreements set with the City of Raleigh , Smithfield , Benson , Harnett County , Wayne County , City of Wilson , and Sampson County He stated the current purchase contracts total 11 mgd if used in complete and full capacity Mr Palmer shared a map from the Triangle Water Partnership stating in addition to the systems adjacent to the County system , the entire triangle region is interconnected and provides resiliency and reliability for the County and can move water from one system to another He noted this is a great long term benefit for the County Mr Palmer shared a chart of the total average day demand forecast , broken down into three categories County Operated Water Districts , the County’s wholesale contracts excluding the Town of Clayton , and the Town of Clayton demand He stated the Town of Clayton has the largest water demand that the County has to meet and it is expected to grow Mr Palmer stated the Town of Clayton represents half of the water supply growth need in the County Page0472 April 17 , 2023 – 6 00 pm ContinuedPage1473 April 17 , 2023 – 6 00 pm Continued Mr Palmer shared the following chart addressing the long term supply gap He stated given that the need is 24 mgd , there is no way to receive additional capacity from neighboring plants and long term options will be necessary Commissioner Richard D Braswell commented that seasonal conditions are a factor when studies are conducted and the results each year will vary Commissioner R Braswell stated the County owns the older quarry and he asked if there have been conversations regarding the current active quarry Mr Palmer deferred specific questions to Ms Farmer but stated as it relates to the Lower Neuse River Intake and Water Treatment Plant with quarry storage option , the County conducted an environmental assessment at the site in 2009 He stated the North Carolina Division of Water Resources provided a finding of no significant impact at that time ; however , back in 2009 this option was viewed as too expensive He stated now , that option demonstrates a robust supply that could satisfy the demands At the inquiry of Commissioner Ted G Godwin , Mr Palmer shared a map of the Lower Neuse River Intake and Water Treatment Plant with Quarry Storage He stated the intake would be placed on the Neuse River upstream from where Richardson Bridge Road crosses the river He noted the quarries are located to the north on the map and the quarry the County has acquired has 800 million gallons of storage capacity He noted the location of the active quarry and stated a raw water line would connect the two for water to be sent to the new water treatment plant Commissioner R Braswell asked if any water could be taken from the Little River Mr Palmer responded that taking water from the Little River is not part of the current plan He stated that option was analyzed in 2009 and it was not looked upon as a favorable option by the State Page2474 April 17 , 2023 – 6 00 pm Continued Mr Palmer shared a map of the alternative components the County would need to capitalize to make use of the alternative He stated there would be an intake on the Neuse River , raw water pump station , pump station to remove water from the quarry , and finished water transmission lines to receive the treated water from the treatment plant site up to the population growth Mr Palmer presented potential phasing options , as follows Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr asked about the 500 million project in the CIP and whether that is Phase One or Two Ms Farmer responded that since these numbers have been updated there are three components of water supply , water treatment , the raw water treatment plant and finished water supply and the CIP has also been updated Mr Palmer shared the Capital Cost Estimate Summary for each phase as follows Page3475 April 17 , 2023 – 6 00 pm Continued Mr Palmer shared the anticipated supply resiliency information with the Board He stated most residents in Johnston County are in the Neuse River Supply Basin He stated if the demand is more than 2 mgd then an Interbasin Transfer is necessary which can take several years and there is a lot of competition for water from the Cape Fear He stated Johnston County is in a great position to utilize the Neuse River which provides a tremendous supply Page4476 April 17 , 2023 – 6 00 pm Continued Ms Farmer shared project funding and financing information with the Board She stated if the County desires to continue to grow and add residents then the demands must be met She stated the 2022 Capital Improvements Plan does have a line item for future water supply and the first step is implementing these numbers back into the plan Ms Farmer stated one of the components in the Capital Improvements Plan is looking at how the projects are funded whether that be Revenue Bonds , USDA Funding , SRF Loans or WIFIA Funding She stated as in the past and moving forward , growth paying for growth has been figured in the System Development and Capacity Fees Ms Farmer stated the System Development Fees can only be used to generate or create new capacity projects for the County Ms Farmer stated the System Development Fee Analysis is currently on the County’s website for public review for the required 45 - day review period She stated at the end of the 45 days , a public hearing will be held th at the Board’s June 5 meeting and a presentation of the analysis will be made that includes this project Ms Farmer stated for water supply this would double the current System Development Fee of 2,750 per lot or home and the new fee would be almost 5,000 per lot or home Ms Farmer noted the model could change and she stated most of the usage is from the bulk customers in which there are bulk capacity fees for the towns that purchase from the County She stated this also ensures that growth pays for growth She stated continued evaluation of capacity fees would be necessary in conjunction with System Development Fees Ms Farmer continued that 50 of future capacity is for growth demands that the Town of Clayton anticipates She stated discussions have been made with the Town of Clayton about a partnership agreement or financing of the capacity portion they would need She stated there would be continued conversations at a staff level on what that would look like as well as available options to bring back to the Board of Commissioners Ms Farmer stated Wildan Financial Services has provided the financial system update and they are working on the rate model update that includes this project with numbers and assumptions including the Capital Improvement Plan She stated it is anticipated to have those numbers in May or June to bring to the Board of Commissioners for the updated Capital Improvements Plan , System Development Fee Analysis , and the rates long term She stated this would provide a comprehensive look to the future Page5477 April 17 , 2023 – 6 00 pm Continued Commissioner Tony Braswell asked about the System Development Fee increase and questioned if there would also be retail rate increases Ms Farmer responded the System Development Fees are utilized to best extent possible to have growth pay for growth She stated there will be rate increases for existing as well as new construction customers She continued that rules and regulations and treatment technologies would have to be met in the existing systems as well as the rise in costs for chemical fees , fuel prices , materials and supplies She stated when the study is completed there will be estimates of the short and long term fees Chairman Lawter spoke on other options and asked if there has been any legislation since 2009 that would make a difference Ms Farmer responded there has been some mention of additional endangered species legislation ; therefore , some of the environmental studies may need to be updated Mr Palmer reported there have been changes in the State Legislature since 2009 and under those changes , another environmental assessment should not be necessary He stated that his team met with DWR in August of 2022 He stated DWR requested additional modeling which they are in the process of finishing He stated after that is completed , he is hopeful a withdrawal will be approved Chairman Lawter asked if any surprises may be out there such as changes to discharge limits , IBT changes , or anything that will drive the cost from a legislative standpoint Mr Palmer responded he is unsure at this point , but contaminants are a concern of all treatment facilities He stated they are anticipating new regulations and granular activated carbon filtration units are a part of the cost of new water treatment plants Chairman Lawter thanked everyone for the update and stated the Board looks forward to more information in the coming months 8 Parks , Greenways , and Open Space – Open Space Grant Allocation Recommendations Parks and Recreation Grants Coordinator Austin Cross stated staff would like to share the funding recommendations for the 2023 Open Space Fund Grants He stated this year there were 23 projects by 14 different organizations and municipalities and the total funding was 710,442 He stated that amount includes some supplemental funding from the County’s Open Space fund He presented the following recommendations Page6478 April 17 , 2023 – 6 00 pm Continued Mr Cross requested the Board of Commissioners to approve the Open Space Grant Funds as presented He noted there were some organizations and municipalities that did not apply , so there may be funds allocated later because they may not have been ready for the match or did not have a project in mind Upon a question by Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr , Mr Cross confirmed this funding comes from the open space fee - in - lieu and is used within the high school district boundaries in which they were collected Commissioner Ted G Godwin questioned if dog parks are an appropriate use of this funding Mr Cross responded that dog parks are an appropriate use and noted that Pine Level is hoping to have a dog park Chairman Lawter stated he was involved in the planning process for the dog park in Clayton and he stated it has become a social interaction place not only for the dogs but the owners Page7479 April 17 , 2023 – 6 00 pm Continued Commissioner Tony Braswell spoke on another dog park in Smithfield that is utilized by many Mr Cross agreed that dog parks provide passive recreation as well as social interaction opportunities Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris asked whether the community center in Princeton would be a sports or recreational based facility Mr Cross responded the funding is considered a reimbursement for land acquisition for that project and he noted the center will have outdoor recreation components Upon a motion by Commissioner Ted G Godwin , seconded by Commissioner Richard D Braswell , and carried by unanimous vote , the Board approved the Open Space Grant Funds as presented and recommended by staff and outlined on the previous spreadsheets 9 Parks , Greenways , and Open Space – Regional Park Master Plan Parks , Greenways , and Open Space Coordinator Adrian O’Neal stated in early 2022 the County began a Regional Park Master Plan for the Booker Tract , the old Cleveland School site , and the 80 acres at Matthews and Polenta Roads He stated in the past year , staff has worked with Stewart , Inc and he introduced Terry Naranjo , Senior Project Manager with Stewart , Inc to present the Park Master Plan Mr Naranjo began his presentation by stating Mr O’Neal and Mr Cross are champions for greenways and open space and Johnston County is fortunate to have them Mr Naranjo stated the definition of the project sets the stage for the first County regional park that he hopes will be a model for others in the future Mr Naranjo stated the process included existing conditions , community engagement , conceptual design , master planning and cost estimates He stated there were two in person meetings and an online survey that included over 700 respondents He stated the top results of the community engagement was open space He shared the following list of items that were important to citizens Mr Naranjo shared a history of the area stating there was active recreation on the complex site and Booker tract He further shared maps of the circulation and its connectivity of the site to Cleveland Road and the topography Mr Naranjo further shared concept diagram options with the Board , as follows Page8480 April 17 , 2023 – 6 00 pm Continued Mr Naranjo further shared information and options for the master plan Page9481 April 17 , 2023 – 6 00 pm ContinuedPage0482 April 17 , 2023 – 6 00 pm Continued Mr Naranjo stated all of the plans and options are suggestions for future planning He offered to answer any questions Page1483 April 17 , 2023 – 6 00 pm Continued Commissioner Ted G Godwin commented that this is a grand plan but he questioned if it is too much Mr O’Neal asked the Board to consider the options as ideas for more of a 20 , 30 , and 40 - year plan He stated having this type of plan allows the County to leverage more grant money Commissioner Tony Braswell stated further conversations will be needed by the Board He noted the last recreation bond was in 2007 and 72 of the voters voted for that bond Commissioner T Braswell spoke on the need to do something as the open space funds will run out sooner or later Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris stated the plan is a good start and it is vision to help move the County into the future as well as help with grant opportunities Mr O’Neal agreed that this is a good starting point He thanked Mr Naranjo for his work on the plan Mr O’Neal recommended the Board schedule a public hearing to be held at their May 15 , 2023 meeting at which time the Board could also consider adopting the plan Upon a motion by Commissioner Ted G Godwin , seconded by Commissioner Richard D Braswell , and carried by unanimous vote , the Board set a public hearing to be held at the May 15 , 2023 6 00 pm meeting to allow for public comment , followed by the Board considering its adoption 10 Parks , Greenways , and Open Space – Parks and Recreation Trust Fund Grant Parks and Recreation Grants Coordinator Austin Cross requested the Board’s approval to apply for a 500,00000 Parks and Recreation Trust Fund Grant that would be used to start the first phase of work on Johnston County’s first regional park He stated this is a 1 to 1 matching grant and the total for Phase One is 79 million Mr Cross outlined plans for the regional park and stated a public meeting would be held on May 19 , 2023 from 4 30 pm – 6 30 pm at the Cleveland Fire Station as part of the grant requirements He stated the PARTF grant is due May 1 At the inquiry of Commissioner Ted G Godwin , Mr Cross stated the grants are awarded in September Upon a question by Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr , Mr Cross stated if awarded , the County would have three years to spend the funds Upon a motion by Commissioner Tony Braswell , seconded by Commissioner Ted G Godwin , and carried by unanimous vote , the Board approved for staff to apply for a PARTF Grant in the amount of 500,00000 to start the first phase of work on Johnston County’s first regional park 11 Resolution in Support of North Carolina Senate Bill 379 Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr shared a resolution with the Board in support of Senate Bill 379 – An Act to Allow the Johnston County Board of Commissioners to Redistrict their Residency Districts Chairman Lawter provided a history of the Commissioner districts and voting methods in Johnston County He shared a map of the Commissioner districts with the Board and spoke on the population estimates within each district and how they have changed over the years Chairman Lawter stated the legislation would allow for the residency boundaries to be redrawn in an effort to balance out the population He noted this is a topic the Board has discussed in the past Commissioner Fred J Smith , Jr also spoke on the change in populations over the years pointing out that in 1990 , District 1 had the least number of voters ; however , it has grown to over 33,000 registered voters Chairman Lawter stated because the Board does not have local authority to implement these changes , the State Legislators will need to consider the legislation He stated public input will also be necessary Commissioner Tony Braswell asked if this would be implemented for the 2024 election Chairman Lawter stated he is hopeful to have the process completed for the 2024 election , but he noted it depends on how long it takes to have the districts redrawn Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris commented that in the County Attorney’s opinion , she noted in order for this to be in place for the 2024 election cycle , the process would need to be completed by October 2023 Page2484 April 17 , 2023 – 6 00 pm Continued Commissioner Ted G Godwin asked if redrawing the districts is crucial since it will not change the voting method Vice Chairman Harris responded it would better equalize the districts Chairman Lawter commented that he would like to see this done for the 2024 election ; however , he wants to make sure things are done right rather than force the issue Commissioner T Braswell noted there is a possibility that after the districts are redrawn , some sitting Commissioners may not reside within their current district At the inquiry of Commissioner Smith , Chairman Lawter stated as he understands the process , a consultant would be selected to redraw the lines Upon a motion by Commissioner Ted G Godwin , seconded by Commissioner Richard D Braswell , and carried by unanimous vote , the Board adopted the following resolution in support of North Carolina Senate Bill 379 RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF NORTH CAROLINA SENATE BILL 379 - AN ACT TO ALLOW THE JOHNSTON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS TO REDISTRICT THEIR RESIDENCY DISTRICTS WHEREAS , the Johnston County Board of Commissioners is a seven - member board , serving staggered four - year terms ; and WHEREAS , members of the Johnston County Board of Commissioners must live in one of seven residency districts and are nominated and elected at - large by all voters of Johnston County ; and WHEREAS , US Census data shows that Johnston County is one of the fastest - growing counties in the State of North Carolina ; and WHEREAS , as a result of this significant population growth , the residency district population has become inequitable ; and WHEREAS , absent the legislative authority proposed in Senate Bill 379 , the Johnston County Board of Commissioners has no legal mechanism to redefine the residency districts to address population inequities ; and WHEREAS , Senate Bill 379 would give the Johnston County Board of Commissioners the legal authority to apportion the residency districts as nearly equal in population as practicable , while still allowing candidates to be nominated and elected at - large by all voters of Johnston County ; and WHEREAS , it is the desire of the Johnston County Board of Commissioners to redefine its residency districts to more evenly distribute its population among its seven residency districts NOW , THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED , that the Board of Commissioners of Johnston County hereby support Senate Bill 379 - An Act To Allow The Johnston County Board Of Commissioners To Redistrict Their Residency Districts Adopted this the 17th day of April , 2023 12 Comprehensive Land Use Plan – Continued Discussion Planning Director Braston Newton stated at the Board’s March 20 , 2023 meeting , the consulting team presented the draft Comprehensive Land Use Plan to the Board of Commissioners Mr Newton recognized Ben Hitchings of Green Heron Planning in the audience to help answer any questions by the Board Mr Newton th recapped the discussion from the March 20 meeting and the options provided to the Board He stated Option 2 identified several areas for study in that the place types for those areas could potentially be modified He noted Option 3 provided a more wholistic prospective with an analysis of land suitability and other criteria He stated Option 4 removed the agriculture place type and replaced it with the rural residential place type Mr Newton noted that all of the options would include text that would affect policies and ordinances Mr Newton stated the Commissioners have been provided with a redlined document to represent the changes to the future land use mapPage3485 April 17 , 2023 – 6 00 pm Continued options He stated Board members were also provided with a priority investment map with tiers Mr Newton asked the Board to provide feedback to staff and direction on proceeding further The Commissioners discussed the pros and cons of Options 3 and 4 with Mr Newton Mr Newton reminded the Board that the place type does not necessarily equate to a specific zoning He stated there can be diverse zoning within a place type Commissioner Fred J Smith , Jr commented the use will be the same whether it is rural , rural living or agriculture He stated care must be taken on the decisions that are made about people’s land Commissioner Smith spoke on his support for Option 4 and moved for its approval The motion failed for lack of a second Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr stated it is safe to say that Options 1 and 2 are off the table The Board continued to discuss Options 3 and 4 and how each would affect farms and agriculture Mr Newton stated if the Board decides to move forward with Option 4 in looking at the place types , rural living is described as an “ area that is characterized by low density residential development with small subdivisions as part of the landscape that include larger lots and more open space than other residential areas Cluster developments are also known as conservation subdivisions are encouraged allowing the flexibility and design in exchange for more reserved open space ” Mr Newton stated if the Board moves forward with Option 4 , the description of rural living may need to be revised to incorporate agriculture Page4486 April 17 , 2023 – 6 00 pm Continued Commissioner Smith stated the map will determine other factors and he suggested approving the map first and then allow staff to adjust the options Commissioner Richard D Braswell asked if the place types would need to be redefined Mr Newton responded a determination would need to be made about adding language to preserve agriculture where people desire it to be preserved for the rural living description Following further discussion , Mr Newton stated the map and text are not independent , so they cannot be considered solely He stated the vision of the rural living area must be captured and place types identified He stated the map and text are mutually dependent Commissioner Tony Braswell commented the County has had the Agriculture Residential zoning for many years with subdivisions and houses and those farmers have done well Commissioner T Braswell expressed his concerns with how Options 3 and 4 impact certain areas Approval of Option 3 Commissioner Ted G Godwin moved to approve Option 3 Commissioner Tony Braswell seconded the motion which carried by the following vote Ayes Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr , Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris , Tony Braswell , Ted G Godwin , and April Stephens via zoom Nays Commissioners Fred J Smith , Jr and Richard D Braswell Chairman Lawter asked with the selection of Option 3 , would there would need to be further clarifications in order to move forward Mr Newton noted the map may not change significantly , but there will be some modifications Commissioner Smith stated a final document and map is needed so that all Board members are voting on the same thing Mr Newton suggested staff take Option 3 and rework the map to incorporate the changes that need to be made to the draft plan Chairman Lawter asked for staff to provide a final complete document for the Board to consider Chairman Lawter thanked Mr Newton and Mr Hitchings for their work 13 Manager Reports and Comments Sheriff’s Office – 2022 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Grant Funds County Manager Rick Hester referenced a memorandum from Johnston County Sheriff Steve Bizzell which informs the Board of Commissioners that the Sheriff’s Office has applied for 2022 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Grant Funds in the amount of 15,07800 The grant funds will be used to purchase ammunition for training to enhance firearms proficiency of all deputy sheriffs Mr Hester noted that the Sheriff has requested the Board to enter the memorandum of official notification of the grant funding into the minutes as part of the rules set forth in obtaining the federal grant funds by the US Department of Justice , Bureau of Justice Assistance It was the unanimous consensus of the Board to accept the grant memorandum as part of the minutes Page5487 April 17 , 2023 – 6 00 pm Continued 14 Board Reports and Comments Commissioner Fred J Smith , Jr shared a notice from the Town of Clayton’s Planning Board to hold a public meeting to make recommendations on a conditional zoning which would then proceed to the Town Council for a public hearing and decision Commissioner Smith stated he would like to see Johnston County move in this direction with the Planning Board holding a public meeting and making a recommendation to the Board of Commissioners who would make the final decision on subdivisions above a certain level Commissioner Smith also shared an article with the Board from The Wall Street Journal regarding school choice and noted that at some point , Johnston County would be affected Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris reported the Board of Health met this past week and it was brought to their attention that there is a significant space problem at the Health Department Vice Chairman Harris stated he would be getting more information to bring back to the Board of Commissioners , but there is a need for more clinical and office space He stated those services need to stay on the hospital campus in Smithfield and there is land available for expansion Commissioner Ted G Godwin stated Terry Naranjo with Stewart , Inc did an outstanding job in his presentation on the Park Master Plan Commissioner Godwin stated he does not want to be accused of having a lack of vision , but coming from humble beginnings , it was difficult to see recreation options that would cost 30 to 45 million Commissioner Godwin commended Mr Naranjo’s work but spoke on the need to spend taxpayer money wisely Commissioner Richard D Braswell spoke on the need to be mindful of future generations and act in a visionary capacity He recalled the speakers from Public Comment regarding their request for additional funds for classroom supplies and stated this is something he would like for the Board of Education to consider Commissioner Smith mentioned there have been several County investments and commitments over the past 20 years including the expansion of the landfill , the purchase of a rock quarry for water storage , and major investment in school construction Commissioner Smith recognized the leadership and vision of former County Commissioners James H Langdon , Jr and Wade M Stewart along with County Manager Rick Hester for their work on those projects Commissioner Smith noted the County is seeing the benefits of that work today Page6488 April 17 , 2023 – 6 00 pm Continued Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr stated that there would be challenges with the Parks and Recreation Master Plan and how long it will take to develop those concepts and ideas in a fiscally responsible manner Chairman Lawter commended Mr O’Neal and Mr Cross for their work Chairman Lawter stated conversations have begun regarding the sewer allocation policy , and he has concerns about how the capacities are allocated but noted there would be more discussion Chairman Lawter also stated conversations continue as it relates to transportation and if the County would like to proceed with establishing its own MPO He reported that representatives from the Department of Transportation and the Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization will be present at the Board’s May 1 , 2023 10 00 am meeting to share information for the Board to use in its decision making process 15 Closed Session – NCGS 14331811 a 5 – Acquisition of Property Upon a motion by Commissioner Fred J Smith , Jr , seconded by Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris , and carried by unanimous vote , the Board recessed regular session to sit in closed session 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 by the Board Commissioner Ted G Godwin moved the Board to adjourn closed session and resume regular session Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris seconded the motion , which carried by unanimous vote There being no further business , Commissioner Ted G Godwin moved the Board adjourn Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris seconded the motion , which carried by unanimous vote The meeting adjourned at 9 31 pm RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr , Chairman Dana G Cuddington , Clerk to the BoardPage