May 15, 2023 - 6:00 PM - County Board of Commissioners Meeting Minutes

10 523 Meeting of the Johnston County Board of Commissioners May 15 , 2023 6 00 pm The Johnston County Board of Commissioners met in regular session Monday , May 15 , 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 Absent None Also Present County Manager Rick J Hester , Finance Officer and Deputy County Manager J Chad McLamb , County Attorney Jennifer J Slusser , 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 Commissioner Fred J Smith , Jr opened the meeting with a prayer Commissioner April Stephens led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag Chairman Lawter reminded everyone that there have been six priorities set by the Board for Johnston County as follows 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 Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris , seconded by Commissioner Richard D Braswell , and carried by unanimous vote , the Board approved the agenda tabling Agenda Item No 11 regarding the Metropolitan Planning Organization to the June 5 , 2023 meeting 2 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 – April 17 , 2023 6 00 pm B Department of Transportation – Additions to System The Board concurred with the North Carolina Department of Transportation’s recommendation to add the following roads to the State Maintained System Buccherro Lane , Centona Place , N Porcennia Lane and S Porcennia Lane – Neuse Villa – Section 2 The Vista at Tuscany – Wilders Township C Public Utilities – Request to Declare Vehicles as Surplus Per a request by Johnston County Public Utilities , the Board declared the following vehicles surplus and approved for them to be sold at the next public auction to be scheduled by the Sheriff’s Office Asset No Year Vehicle Type Mileage License Plate 13490 2016 Ford F150 201,144 86466 - V 13567 2017 Ford F150 200,473 95296 - V 13376 2010 Chevrolet Truck 244,297 38519 - V 13375 2010 Chevrolet 4x4 Extended Cab Truck 220,913 38518 - V 13476 2016 Ford Truck 213,448 79786 - V 13475 2016 Ford Truck 191,615 79785 - V 14295 2015 Ford Truck 201,266 63240 - V 14296 2015 Ford Truck 204,893 63239 - V 13445 2010 Ford Truck 305,745 38521 - VPage524 May 15 , 2023 – 6 00 pm Continued 15046 2009 Ford Truck 271,488 38539 - V 14115 2013 Chevrolet Truck 284,249 70121 - V 18122 2005 Chevrolet Van 2500 gt; 200,000 38548 - V 14099 2012 Ford F150 292,741 38529 - V D Approval of Municipal Funding Agreement between Town of Smithfield and Johnston County , approved as follows Page525 May 15 , 2023 – 6 00 pm ContinuedPage526 May 15 , 2023 – 6 00 pm Continued E Public Utilities – WWTP – Hannah Creek Outfall - Approval of Task Order No 7 – Town of Benson Per a request by the Town of Benson , the Board approved Task Order No 7 in an amount not to exceed 305,00000 for the NPDES Monitoring and Modeling Project for the Benson WWTP – Hannah Creek Outfall F Approval of Johnston County Fire Service Supplemental Funding Grant Agreements , approved as follows for the Blackman’s Crossroads , Bentonville , Bethany , Micro , and Stricklands Crossroads Fire Departments PagePage pageNumber5527 May 15 , 2023 – 6 00 pm ContinuedPagePage pageNumber6528 May 15 , 2023 – 6 00 pm ContinuedPagePage pageNumber7529 May 15 , 2023 – 6 00 pm ContinuedPagePage pageNumber8530 May 15 , 2023 – 6 00 pm ContinuedPagePage pageNumber9531 May 15 , 2023 – 6 00 pm Continued G Town of Selma – Municipal Funding for Water Projects On January 6 , 2023 , the Johnston County Board of Commissioners approved a municipal funding request to the Town of Selma for its Water Line Upgrade project in the amount not to exceed 330,00000 for project costs actually incurred and paid by the Town of Selma for the Project The project submitted has been funded through other sources The Town of Selma requested amending the request by substituting projects to a more viable project that will enhance the Town of Selma’s ability to increase water capacity to areas prepared for growth and expand their water system The requested project is to extend an existing 8 ” line along Outlet Center Drive to connect to an existing line along JR Road This would entail a bore under I - 95 The project would increase flow capabilities to both the Outlet Center and JR Road , which currently have low gallon per minute readings The completion of this project would allow for more growth , provide sufficient fire flows , and allow for interconnections and redundancy in our system This project will also play a part in future regionalization capabilities The project costs are as follows Bore under I - 95 352,500 Waterline 110,500 Permitting Engineering 75,000 Miscellaneous 112,000 Total 650,000Page0532 May 15 , 2023 – 6 00 pm Continued Staff reports this request meets the requirements of the County’s one - time program for municipal funding for water , wastewater , or storm water projects The Board approved the amended municipal funding request by the Town of Selma by substituting projects for the water line extension project as described ; and further directed staff to prepare a funding agreement in an amount not to exceed 330,000 for the described water line extension project that outlines the terms and conditions for the funding on a reimbursement basis H Budget Revisions , approved as follows Library REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 18 44500513 Furniture & Fixtures 18,45700 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 18,45700 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 18 445033099 Miscellaneous Revenue 14,00000 18 445034104 State of NC - Library 4,45700 TOTAL NET REVENUE 18,45700 3 Public Comments A Comments from Down Home North Carolina Elizabeth Lynn , Clayton , representing Down Home North Carolina thanked Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr , Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris , and Commissioner Tony Braswell for meeting with her and her chapter members to listen to their concerns about providing supplies to the teachers in Johnston County She stated it was helpful to learn about the County’s budget process Ms Lynn stated Down Home North Carolina can help make the County better for the future when stronger relationships are built with elected officials She stated she feels more comfortable and confident than the previous public comment opportunity Ms Lynn stated when their group feels heard and valued , then it creates more trust in the elected officials Susan Wilson , Kenly , representing Down Home North Carolina , stated she joined Down Home North Carolina because she wanted to join likeminded individuals that share a passion for improving education , healthcare and housing for the children in Johnston County She stated creating safe spaces for individuals to learn help develop leadership skills Ms Wilson stated that a positive impact can be made by being present and she encouraged others to join their group Ms Wilson spoke on diversity and community needs and encouraged everyone to attend the June 5 , 2023 Board of Commissioners meeting to support teachers before the final vote on the budget by the Board Ms Wilson shared information on where Down Home North Carolina can be found through the internet and social media outlets 4 Public Hearing – Parks , Greenways and Open Space – Regional Park Master Plan Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr opened the public hearing to receive public comment on the Regional Park Master Plan Parks , Greenways and Open Space Coordinator Adrian O’Neal provided a brief overview of the Regional Park Master Plan process and stated a copy has been posted online Mr O’Neal stated positive comments have been received throughout the last few weeks Derrick Applewhite , Clayton , Chair of the Friends of Johnston County Parks , stated he would like to pledge their support for the Regional Park Master Plan Mr Applewhite stated this first Regional Park in Johnston County is reflective of the wants and needs of the citizens through online surveys and in - person meetings He stated the plan provides an opportunity for a mix of active recreation representing the diverse needs of all residents in Johnston County He stated the Board , County staff , and Steering Committee have guided the project and future generations will reap the benefits He stated as the Board continues planning for parks and recreation , the Friends of Johnston County Parks would like to offer their support and assistance with engaging the public Mr Applewhite recognized Greater Cleveland Athletic Association Board Member Lindsey Camper in attendance at today’s meeting Page1533 May 15 , 2023 – 6 00 pm Continued Gary Underwood , Cleveland Road , Johnston County , stated he serves on the Board of Trustees for the Clayton Senior Center Mr Underwood stated in past meetings , the President of the Senior Center Board of Trustees came to the Commissioners looking for a new location He stated based on a 2019 report , there is not enough parking or room at the current location and the Senior Center is the only one in the State that has a waiver in that it is under 4,000 square feet but they have the most attendance of any other senior center in Johnston County Mr Underwood stated the Clayton Senior Center is under Community & Senior Services Mr Underwood stated Mr O’Neal is aware of their needs and he asked the Board to consider relocating the Clayton Senior Center to the site of the proposed Regional Park Chairman Lawter asked if there were any final comments or questions by Commissioners Commissioner Tony Braswell commented that all of the senior centers fall under Community and Senior Services of Johnston County He asked which agency would be the decision maker as it relates to relocating a senior center Commissioner Ted G Godwin stated everyone supports a larger senior center in Clayton because they are undersized , but the issue is resources Commissioner Godwin stated several years ago the Board adopted an aging plan and discussed at that time , having a senior consideration added to the decision making processes and he does not want the Board to lose sight of this Chairman Lawter stated during his time on the Clayton Town Council , Community & Senior Services discussed partnering with the Town of Clayton on the senior center so this is something that has been looked at for many years Mr O’Neal stated this plan considers every age group , and it will have flex space for many groups , of which the senior center could be included Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris stated he appreciates all the work that has been done on this process from the Friends of Johnston County Parks , Mr O’Neal and his team , as well as the citizens He stated four and a half years ago there were no conversations by the Board about Parks and Recreation in Johnston County He noted discussions have come a long way and the Board is on the right path Vice Chairman Harris stated the citizens will benefit for many years to come because of the work that is being done today Chairman Lawter stated it is a visionary plan with a little something for everyone and he likes that there are options for the Board to consider There being no further comments , the Chairman closed the public hearing Upon a motion by Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris , seconded by Commissioner April Stephens , and carried by unanimous vote , the Board adopted the Regional Park Master Plan A complete copy of the adopted plan is on file in the Parks , Greenways and Open Space Office 5 Parks , Greenways and Open Space Proclamation – 2023 Year of the Trail Parks , Greenways and Open Space Coordinator Adrian O’Neal reported that at the end of last year , the North Carolina General Assembly set aside funding to enhance trails in North Carolina He noted the Mountains to Sea Trail and the East Coast Greenway are the two State trails that go through Johnston County Mr O’Neal stated 50 million has been set aside and there could be grant opportunities for Johnston County Mr O’Neal requested the Board to adopt a Proclamation for the 2023 Year of the Trail Commissioner Tony Braswell read aloud the following 2023 Year of the Trail Proclamation and moved for its adoption Commissioner Ted G Godwin seconded the motion , which carried by unanimous vote Page2534 May 15 , 2023 – 6 00 pm Continued 6 Emergency Services Proclamation – EMS Week – May 21 - 27 , 2023 Emergency Services Director Kevin Hubbard stated he along with Deputy Director Josh Holloman would like to commend all the staff with the EMS Division for the excellent work they do every day Mr Hubbard introduced EMS Assistant Chief Ted Hardy who recognized EMS Division employees Lance Adams , Captain Aaron Casey , Ashley Balconis and Battalion Chief Anthony Grimes He thanked the Board for their support in providing care to the County He stated they are excited for the upcoming EMS Week and recognizing the employees for all they do Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris expressed his pride for the EMS Division stating many lives have been saved and will be saved because of the work they do Vice Chairman Harris read the following proclamation aloud and moved for its adoption Commissioner April Stephens seconded the motion , which carried by unanimous vote Proclamation - Emergency Medical Services Week May 21 - 27 , 2023 WHEREAS , emergency medical services is a vital public service ; and WHEREAS , the members of emergency medical services teams are ready to provide lifesaving care to those in need 24 hours a day , seven days a week ; andPage3535 May 15 , 2023 – 6 00 pm Continued WHEREAS , access to quality emergency care dramatically improves the survival and recovery rate of those who experience sudden illness or injury ; and WHEREAS , the emergency medical services system consists of emergency physicians , emergency medical technicians , paramedics , firefighters , educators , administrators , telecommunicators and others ; and WHEREAS , the members of emergency medical services teams , whether career or volunteer , engage in thousands of hours of specialized training and continuing education to enhance their lifesaving skills ; and WHEREAS , it is appropriate to recognize the value and the accomplishments of emergency medical services providers by designating Emergency Medical Services Week NOW , THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED , that the Board of Commissioners of Johnston County , does hereby proclaim May 21 – 27 , 2023 as Emergency Medical Services Week in Johnston County , in recognition of this event th Adopted this the 15 day of May , 2023 7 Partnership for Children of Johnston County – Proclamation – Summer Learning Week Partnership for Children of Johnston County Board of Directors Member Dr Chuck Williams requested the Board to adopt a proclamation for July 10 - 15 , 2023 as Summer Learning Week in Johnston County Dr Williams stated he is a physician with Horizon Family Medicine and works with the Partnership for Children Dr Williams stated this request is to encourage awareness of learning for the children during the summer among business leaders , parents , families , and elected officials He stated “ Read to JoCo ” started before the Covid - 19 Pandemic to increase reading scores among the children in the County He noted those partnerships continue with the school system and the community for resources and tutoring for families and children Dr Williams stated the “ Read to Grow ” reading event will occur in July during the reading week which involves local business persons and parents coming to the libraries and reading to the children He noted that 294 children attended last year’s events and it encourages books in the home as well as parents reading to their children Dr Williams stated local author Kimberly Johnson will be in attendance this year to provide three interactive story times across the County He stated the goal of the reading event is to connect providers and educate family and community leaders to deliver high quality summer learning opportunities to the County’s children to help close achievement gaps Dr Williams thanked the Commissioners for their support Commissioner Ted G Godwin read aloud the 2023 Summer Learning Week Proclamation and moved for its adoption Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris seconded the motion , which carried by unanimous vote PROCLAMATION FOR SUMMER LEARNING WEEK WHEREAS , Summer Learning Week is a time to reflect on the importance of keeping youth learning , safe , and healthy every summer , ensuring they return to school in the fall ready to succeed in the year ahead ; and WHEREAS , Summer learning loss is a significant contributor to the achievement gap — a gap which remains constant during the nine months of the school year but widens during the summer months ; and WHEREAS , Summer learning programs are proven to maintain and advance students ’ academic and social growth , keep children safe and healthy during the summer , and send young people back to school ready to learn Additionally , summer youth employment programs engage older youth in meaningful activities that allow them to explore careers of interest , take on new responsibilities , contribute to their community , and earn money for the future ; and WHEREAS , A wide array of public agencies , community - based organizations , schools , libraries , museums , recreation centers , camps , and businesses in our community contribute to the well - being of youth through summer programming ; and WHEREAS , Summer learning is a critical component of our collective effort to ensure all students graduate from high school prepared for college , careers , and life Page4536 May 15 , 2023 – 6 00 pm Continued NOW , THEREFORE , THE JOHNSTON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS , hereby proclaims July 10 - 15 , 2023 as SUMMER LEARNING WEEK in Johnston County and commends this observance to all of our citizens th Adopted this the 15 day of May , 2023 8 Triangle Land Conservancy – Update to the Board Leigh Ann Hammerbacher , Director of Land Protection and Stewardship East with the Triangle Land Conservancy , presented an update to the Board of Commissioners on their work in the past year , as follows Page5537 May 15 , 2023 – 6 00 pm ContinuedPage6538 May 15 , 2023 – 6 00 pm ContinuedPage7539 May 15 , 2023 – 6 00 pm ContinuedPage8540 May 15 , 2023 – 6 00 pm Continued Ms Hammerbacher stated the Triangle Land Conservancy continues to monitor the preserves to expand the work in the County She thanked the Board for their funding support last year noting that even small amounts of funding can leverage large grants Commissioner Ted G Godwin commended the work of the Triangle Land Conservancy Commissioner Godwin recalled that there was a time when on the Flower Hill Property , people came together for “ Flower Sunday ” to look at the rhododendrons Page9541 May 15 , 2023 – 6 00 pm Continued Commissioner April Stephens echoed the comments of Commissioner Ted G Godwin Commissioner th Stephens noted that Johnston County is ranked 19 in the country for farmland loss and she asked what are some other counties or locations that would be comparable to Johnston County Ms Hammerbacher stated that as a whole , North Carolina ranks second in the nation for farmland loss and Johnston County is first in the State for potential farmland loss Ms Hammerbacher stated she could assemble and provide more information to the Board on the rankings Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr thanked the Triangle Land Conservancy for all their work and for what they continue to do 9 Public Utilities – Four Oaks Wastewater Pump Station Improvements Proposed Budget Revision Public Utilities Director Chandra Farmer stated the County provides bulk wastewater transmission and treatment services for the Town of Four Oaks She explained the County receives the majority of the flow at the County’s Four Oaks Equalization and Wastewater Pump Station located at 400 Fawnbrook Drive Ms Farmer stated under normal operation , the existing facility pumps flow through an 8 ” force main to the Town of Benson WWTF ; however , existing piping at the site allows for flow diversion to the County’s existing WWTF , in the event of an emergency Ms Farmer stated in order to accommodate additional future flow from the Town of Four Oaks , system improvements are under design for the station to pump simultaneously in both directions She continued that in order to replace aging components at the WWPS and allow for more efficient and safe operation of the new improved facilities , staff recommends revising the detailed project design scope to include a new submersible wastewater pump station in lieu of replacing existing pumps in the basement of the existing site , requiring a new wetwell , valve vault , and additional grading site disturbance Ms Farmer presented the following proposed project budget revision for additional technical services to complete the project Existing Proposed Expense Technical Design Services Preliminary Study 76,30000 76,30000 Detailed Project Design , Permitting & amp ; Bidding 410,00000 567,40000 Construction Administration & amp ; Observation 79,00000 79,00000 Total 565,30000 722,70000 Revenue Fund 68 Sewer Balance 80,00000 237,40000 Wastewater SDF Fund 485,30000 485,30000 Total 565,30000 722,70000 Upon a motion by Commissioner Ted G Godwin , seconded by Commissioner Richard D Braswell and carried by unanimous vote , the Board approved the appropriation of funding for the increased cost and approved the revised project budget and associated budget revision for the Four Oaks Wastewater Pump Station Improvements REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 83 85680406 Technical Services 157,40000 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 157,40000 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 83 856837925 Transfer from Other Funds 157,40000 TOTAL NET REVENUE 157,40000 10 Public Utilities – White Memorial Church Road Water Main Improvements Proposed Construction Contract Award & Budget Revision Public Utilities Director Chandra Farmer stated the County’s previously approved Capital Improvements Plan includes approximately 17,000 LF of 16 ” water main improvements along White Memorial Church Road from NC 210 to Jackson King Road She noted the Board of Commissioners previously approved the project design budget Ms Farmer stated project design and permitting is completed , and the County received seven 7 bids for the construction contract on April 13 , 2023 Ms Farmer stated Sanford Contractors , Inc of Sanford , NC submitted the lowest responsive bid in the amount of 3,224,54304 She stated Sanford Contractors , Inc isPage0542 May 15 , 2023 – 6 00 pm Continued properly licensed and experienced in the type of construction involved and appears to have the financial , labor and equipment resources required to complete the construction within the stipulated contract completion time Ms Farmer presented the following previously approved and proposed project budget Existing Proposed Construction 000 3,224,54400 Contingency 000 161,25600 Technical Services Engineering Survey Construct Admin 275,00000 275,00000 Easements 50,00000 50,00000 Cost of Revenue Bond Issuance 000 46,00000 Total Project Cost 325,00000 3,756,80000 Funding for the proposed project is as follows Water SDF Reserve 325,00000 325,00000 2023 Water Sewer Revenue Bonds 325,00000 3,431,80000 Total Project Funds 325,00000 3,756,80000 Ms Farmer explained that proposed project funding is based on 2023 Water and Sewer Revenue Bonds , which will require County approval , Local Government Commission LGC approval and bond sales She stated if revenue bonds are not sold , the project would be funded with the Water System Development Fee Reserve fund Ms Farmer stated staff recommends award of the White Memorial Church Road Water Main Improvements project to Sanford Contractors , Inc in the amount of 3,224,54304 , approval of the revised project budget and approval of the Capital Project Ordinance Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr asked about the alternate bid on this item Ms Farmer stated the base bid is what is being considered at this time and staff chose not to utilize the alternate bid Upon a motion by Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris , seconded by Commissioner Richard D Braswell , and carried by unanimous vote , the Board awarded the White Memorial Church Road Water Main Improvements project to Sanford Contractors , Inc Inc in the amount of 3,224,54304 , approved the revised project budget as presented by staff , and adopted the following Capital Project Ordinance CAPITAL PROJECT ORDINANCE FOR THE WHITE MEMORIAL CHURCH ROAD WATER MAIN IMPROVEMENTS 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 White Memorial Church Road Water Main Improvements Project the “ Project ” The Project includes approximately 17,000 linear feet of 16 - inch water main improvements along White Memorial Church Road from NC Highway 210 to Jackson King Road 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 ” If for any reason the County does not issue the 2023 Revenue Bonds , the Project will be financed entirely from 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 275,000 Construction 3,224,544 Easements 50,000 Costs of Issuance 46,000 Contingency 161,256 Total 3,756,800Page1543 May 15 , 2023 – 6 00 pm Continued Section 4 The following revenues are anticipated to be available to complete this Project Transfer from SDF Reserve Fund 325,000 Revenue Bonds 3,431,800 Total 3,756,800 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 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 15th day of May , 2023 11 Johnston County Comprehensive Transportation Plan Planning Director Braston Newton stated previously the Board approved for staff to seek assistance with the development of a new Comprehensive Transportation Plan through a request for qualifications RFQ process He noted it was the consensus of the Board for staff to schedule meetings with the top two firms , McAdams and Kimley - Horn for presentations and further evaluation Mr Newton thanked Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr and Commissioner Ted G Godwin for sitting in on those evaluation meetings Mr Newton stated it is the recommendation to select McAdams as the consultant for the Johnston County Comprehensive Transportation Plan update Chairman Lawter stated both firms were highly qualified ; however , in the meeting with McAdams , there was good discussion regarding better inter - county mobility for citizens in Johnston County Upon a motion by Commissioner Ted G Godwin , seconded by Commissioner Richard D Braswell , and carried by unanimous vote , the Board selected McAdams as the consultant for the Johnston County Comprehensive Transportation Plan update 12 Comprehensive Land Use Plan – Continued Discussion Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr stated he has not had the opportunity to complete his review of the revised Comprehensive Land Use Plan and he suggested this item be postponed until the June 5 , 2023 meeting , and the Board agreed by consent Planning Director Braston Newton noted that the Board members should have received the Priority Investment Map for consideration at the next meeting 13 Manager Reports and Comments County Manager Rick Hester informed the Board that staff is working on the proposed budget , and documents would be completed this week He mentioned the first public hearing will be held at the Board’s regular June 5 , 2023 10 00 am meeting and a special meeting will be held on June 12 , 2023 at 6 00 pm with the proposed adoption on June 19 , 2023 Mr Hester stated he would be consulting with Board members soon on the proposed budget 14 Board Reports and Comments Commissioner April Stephens commended staff on the stakeholders meeting for the draft Johnston County Wastewater Allocation Policy held on May 11 , 2023 at the Land Use Center She commended PublicPage2544 May 15 , 2023 – 6 00 pm Continued Utilities Director Chandra Farmer and her team for their work Commissioner Stephens stated the meeting was well attended and staff did a great job informing the public Commissioner Fred J Smith , Jr commented that he and Mr Gary Underwood spoke during the Regional Park Plan Public Hearing have known each other for a very long time Commissioner Smith stated Mr Underwood was an outstanding attorney in St Louis and it is fortunate to have him back in Johnston County Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr agreed with Commissioner Stephens stating the stakeholders meeting for the draft Johnston County Wastewater Allocation Policy was great and there was a lot of input from stakeholders 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 7 46 pm RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr , Chairman Dana G Cuddington , Clerk to the BoardPage